Montra Unplugged (2018) - Review

The Unplugged is an entry-level road bicycle and is the cheapest amongst the 2 road bicycles in Montra. This road bicycle is built on a full aluminium alloy frame. The top tube is straight and makes sure the ride geometry when on the hoods is comfortable. The bladed forks and thin seat stays made sure the frame's weight is kept in check. While this frame is heavier than mid-level road bicycles, the weight is felt only on climbs.

The Unplugged entry-level road bicycle come with entry level Shimano Tourney A7 front and rear derailleurs. The 2x7-Speed combination gears are the most basic drivetrain one can find on a road bicycle. Even though they have their restrictions, these derailleurs are enough for urban rides and those long weekend rides. The shifters for the 14-Speed drivetrain were Shimano Tourney's paddle and button shifting system, which is easy to use.

This road bicycle which I test rode came in a Peacock Blue primary colour and Red/Grey secondary colours. The frame design and welding quality is smooth and looks simple yet elegant. The gloss finish paint job quality was top notch with a perfect mirror like shine to it. The colour-coded fork and saddle made the bicycle look aesthetic and uniform in design.

The Promax Caliper brakes on the Unplugged performed well during the test ride on flat tarmac. Braking on wet roads could be a little slow but they are still balanced and felt safe while braking. Braking from the hood and drops were easy.The Zoom drop handlebar on the Unplugged measured 42mm in width and gave a comfortable riding posture to the rider on the hoods and a not too aggressive position on the drops.

The Kenda K191 7x25C road specific tires on the Unplugged were fast rolling and gave good traction on flat and dry roads. Along with the alloy rims this wheelset surely contributes towards the acceleration of this bicycle. The stock XMR race saddle was ergonomic in design with the perfect width and length to make sure the rider's sit bones is placed on the widest part of the saddle comfortably. The overall ride quality was comfortable on flat roads.