Montra Trance W (2018) - Review

The Montra Trance W has been made using a 661 alloy frame, making it lightweight and sturdy. The frame has been welded to perfection, evident from the top quality, neat edges as seen on the frame. The welding allows for an overall decreased amount of material used, thereby adding to the light weight of the bicycle. The bicycle has a downward sloping top tube, making it a low step through frame, which is in line with woman specific frame designs, making this a perfect bicycle for women. The frame has a single bottle holder mounting option.The bicycle comes with a side stand and provisions for mudguards at the front and the rear. Additionally, the frame has lifetime warranty from Montra. The Montra Trance W comes with a Zoom front suspension fork. This suspension fork has 5mm travel, which is the most basic amount of travel one can expect out of a suspension fork. However, the suspension was effective when tested on rugged, uneven surfaces transferring minimal vibrations to the saddle.

The Montra Trance W is a 21-Speed bicycle and comes equipped with Shimano Tourney Derailleurs at the front and the back. The derailleurs worked efficiently ensuring quick, seamless shifting from one gear to another. There was no evident lag or delay in the shifting. The shifting on this bicycle is controlled by Shimano Altus trigger shifters, which are well placed and comfortable to use. The shifters were responsive and crisp, and the transmission was extremely efficient.

The Montra Trance W has been designed keeping the changing preferences of its target audience in mind. In contrast to the previous years models, seeing this year's bicycle one thought occurs to me, Bold! The Montra Trance W comes in a primary colour of matte black with minimal bold pink branding. The drastic change in the design of the bicycle is a major plus point, with it moving away from excessive graphics, yet keeping that chic feel about the bicycle. Kudos.

The Montra Trance W comes equipped with Power alloy V-Brakes. The 11mm arms ensure that the brakes are well balanced and level, even over time with regular usage. The brakes were responsive and had adequate stopping power with interval braking and abrupt braking. The ST EF-5 Brake Levers were well placed, well within reach, requiring two to three fingers to operate. The brake levers required only a light pull to ensure effective braking. These brakes are sure to work effectively on both wet and dry surfaces. The XMR Zoom Alloy 62mm handlebar on the Montra Trance W, ensures a comfortable ‘open-chested’ riding position. The width of the handlebar allows for increased control and maneuverability of the bicycle, even in severe traffic and crowded riding conditions. The grips on the handlebar are comfortable and well cushioned, and work well to absorb vibrations felt from rugged roads transferring minimal vibrations to the palms and arms.

The Montra Trance W comes equipped with Kenda K934 7x35c Hybrid tires. These tires are lightly treaded providing traction while being fast rolling. In addition to providing traction, treaded tires provide stability and grip on tight curves and wet surfaces alike. The bicycle wheels come with a Quick Release hub on the front, but not the rear. This bicycle comes equipped with an XMR Comfort Saddle. The saddles on the Montra have had some major upgrades in terms of their design and comfort. This saddle is extremely comfortable, while not appearing bulky or big. Additionally, the saddle is wide enough to comfortably accommodate one's sit bones and is in perfect colour sync with the frame of the bicycle. Big shout out to Montra on the saddle upgrades. Also, The seat post has a Quick Release option, allowing ease when it comes to adjusting the saddle height while on the go.