Polygon Xtrada 6 27.5" (2019) - Review

The Xtrada is equipped with an ALX full alloy frame with a cross-country inspired geometry. The frame is built using hydro-formed heat treatment technology, which made sure the perfect balance of lightweight and strength is achieved. This was evident during the test ride when the frame responded well to acceleration and climbs.The Suntour XCR LO-R suspension fork was responsive during the test ride and absorbed most of the vibrations on the trail. This was possible because of its 12mm travel and an easy to use hydraulic suspension lock-out which helped in making the ride faster on flatter patches.

Shimano's M61 Deore MTB groupset on the Xtrada 6 27.5” is well regarded for the quality of shifting across its rings. This may be Shimano's best racing groupset option on a budget, but that hasn’t resulted in a lack of attention to detail: each chainring is constructed differently to balance use against weight and longevity. The 2-Speed drivetrain has enough range for difficult climbs and for picking up speed as well. This groupset is complete with M61 Deore shifters, which were easy and responsive to use.

This hardtail XC MTB that I test rode came in a full teal green frame colour with red and orange as secondary colours in a few places on the frame. The internal cable routing for both derailleur and brake cables made the bicycle look neater and organized. The matte finish paint job was top notch in quality.

The Shimano BR-M315 Hydraulic Disc brakes were as powerful as brakes can get on a performance-focused hardtail MTB. During the test ride, these brakes were not just powerful but also balanced on wet trail surfaces. The brake levers required only 2 or 3 fingers to engage the brakes.The 76mm Entity branded handlebar was lengthy and perfectly suited for fast trail rides. That being said this handlebar's length makes it uncomfortable for those commutes on urban roads.

The Xtrada 6 27.5” rolls on a pair of Schwalbe Tough Tom 27.5” x 2.2” MTB tires. These hard compound heavily treaded tires were tough and can easily handle the wettest and roughest of trails. The Entity Void saddle on this XC MTB is designed to make sure the rider is sore free even when he or she spends long hours on this saddle during XC rides and races. The overall ride quality was fast on bumpy and flat trails.