Polygon Heist 2 (2019) - Review

The Heist 2 (2019) is built on an AL6 hybrid frame, which is the perfect blend of strength and comfort. During the test ride the frame was able to handle the bumps and potholes while being responsive to gradual climbs and fast turns. This frame also offers a high ground clearance, which makes it possible to ride over curbs without the frame hitting the surface below.This is a cross hybrid which comes with a front suspension fork. The 63mm travel was just enough for rough patches on city roads. At this price, I was expecting the Heist 2 to have a suspension lock-out which could have made the ride faster on flat roads. The Lack of a lock-out is a small negative to a hybrid bicycle at this price.

Shimano's Tourney and Altus handle the 24-Speed drivetrain on this hybrid bicycle. The Tourney at the front is the most basic gearing component in Shimano's hybrid hierarchy and Altus is the one above Tourney. The performance of gears during the test ride was smooth but the Tourney in the front is a bit slow to react, especially while shifting up. Though this drivetrain is sufficient for fitness rides and commutes, for the price of this bicycle an Altus/Altus or an Altus/Acera would have made more sense.

The Heist 2 which we test rode came in a full red coloured frame with orange graphics. The line pattern design on both the top and bottom tubes were new and refreshing. The gloss paint job was of top quality and gave a shiny outlook. The contrasting brown coloured fork and colour coded rims made the bicycle aesthetic in appearance.

Shimano's BR-M315 Hydraulic disc brakes handle the braking performance on the Polygon Heist 2 (2019). These brakes were powerful and balanced on urban roads and felt safe to use even at top speeds. Hydraulic disc brakes from Shimano on a bicycle at this price are definitely a steal.The 7mm handlebar was wide and flat with MTB characteristics and no raise from the middle. This enables more control over the bicycle while compromising a bit on the straight back riding posture.

A cross hybrid is a bicycle where the MTB characteristics are slightly more than that of a road bicycle. The 7x4c Schwalbe Smart Sam tires are treaded as good as any mid-level performance MTB tires while still being sleek and rolling fast on urban roads. The Entity Saddle was MTB specific and had the perfect width and length to keep the rider safe and comfortable.