Polygon Strattos S5 (2019) - Review

The Strattos S5 (2019) is built on a stock ALX performance road full alloy frame. The frame geometry is endurance focused and can be safely termed an all-rounder as the riding posture on the hoods and drops are suited for both flat out speeds and tiresome hill climbs. This lightweight frame is evident with its responsive behavior on quick accelerations. The tapered fork is super-light and immensely helps in reducing the overall weight of the bicycle.

The Strattos S5 is equipped with Shimano's 15 groupset at the front and rear as derailleurs. 15 ‘s are considered the beginning of top-end derailleurs for racing. The shifting was quick and responsive during the test ride. This 15 groupset has some similar characteristics as its bigger counterparts in terms of design and build.

This road bicycle from Polygon which I test rode came in a full black frame with a lighter shade of black as the secondary colour. The dual shade of matte and gloss black on this frame was unique and perhaps the only time I’ve seen a combination of a matte and gloss paint job on a bicycle frame. Internal cable routing for the gears made sure the bicycle looked neat and also increases the life of the cables.

Same as the S4, the S5 also follows the same pattern of having a complete groupset to handle not just the gears but the brakes as well. The Shimano 15 BR-R7 caliper road specific brakes were ideal for stopping on flat tarmacs, which were both dry and wet.The Entity Sport drop handlebar on this bicycle was comfortable on the hoods and drops. The bar tape was grippy even with wet hands and gloves. The 48-51cm frame sizes comes with a 4mm handlebar and the 54-6cm frame sizes comes with a 42mm handlebar.

Same as the Strattos S4, the Strattos S5 also comes with Schwalbe Lugano 7x25C road tires that are perfect for racing and climbing on smooth tarmacs. The rubber compounds were strong and does give a long life, thus making it value for money. The Entity Aion stock saddle was designed ergonomically for an endurance road bicycle to make sure the rider can be seated for long hours without experiencing any soreness.