Frog Viper X 101 27.5" - Review

The Frog Viper X 11 27.5"" has been made using a Steel frame. Traditionally steel frames mean added weight, however the welding on the frame makes this frame comparatively lightweight and the usage of Steel enhances durability. The geometry of the frame enables a comfortable upright riding position. The frame houses a mounting option for a single bottle holder. Additionally, it has mounting options for mudguards in the front and rear. Furthermore, Frog offers lifetime warranty on the frame. This bicycle is available in a single frame size - 18.5"". This bicycle comes equipped with a front suspension fork. The Zoom 389 suspension fork worked well to absorb vibrations felt from rugged, bumpy terrains. The bicycle has a relatively narrow head tube, thereby decreasing the load bearing capacity of the fork. Additionally, the stem is on the longer side, which hinders quick handling, thereby restricting its usage to mild trails that require less precision and tricky maneuvering. This bicycle is sure to perform well on uneven, rugged city roads and on basic trails requiring less technical riding.

The Frog Viper X 11 27.5" is a 21-Speed bicycle that is equipped with Shimano Tourney (TY-5) front and rear derailleurs and the shifting is controlled by Shimano EZ-Fire 21-Speed shifters. This componentry is fairly standard when it comes to bicycles at the said price point. The derailleurs worked smooth, enabling efficient shifting. The Shifters were well placed and functioned crisply, enabling quick and responsive transmission. The shifting was crisp with no evidence of a lag.

The Frog Viper X 11 27.5" is available in a wide range of colour options, this is great considering more than two/three colour options is not common. The bicycle we test rode had a primary colour of Blue with White graphics and decals. Another aesthetic addition worth mentioning would be the colour coded cabling to match the frame and the colour coded saddle. This bicycle is available in 5 colour options - Black/Green, Blue/White, Black/Blue, Orange/Blue, Orange/Grey.

The Frog Viper X 11 27.5"" comes equipped with Mechanical Disc brakes at the front and back. The brakes worked efficiently, ensuring powerful braking while staying stable. Interval braking was responsive and strong, however I felt the need for added power when it came to abrupt braking. The Brake Levers were placed well within reach, requiring only two or three fingers to operate. The brake levers required only a light pull to ensure effective braking. These brakes work effectively on both wet and dry surfaces. The brakes could tend to be less effective on wet surfaces.The handlebar on the Frog Viper X 11 27.5"" ensures a comfortable ‘open-chested’ riding position. The width of the handlebar enables enhanced stability on rugged flat trails and rough surfaces. The handlebar grips have satisfactory cushioning, thus providing adequate comfort while handling the bicycle on rugged trails or paths.

The Frog Viper X 11 27.5"" rolls on a pair of 27.5"" x 2.2” tires that are attached to Alloy double wall rims. The tires are well treaded, providing additional stability and grip when on uneven surfaces. When tested on a smooth surface, the tires were fast rolling with enough traction to provide stability in wet riding conditions and on turns. The biggest advantage with 27.5” wheels is the ease of handling the bicycle on both on-road and off-road riding conditions. The rear wheel does not have a Quick Release option, which could be slightly time consuming when tackling a puncture while on a ride. However, I would not view this as a significant hindrance given the specs and price point of this bicycle. The Frog Saddle that comes on this bicycle is wide and comfortable. When on the test ride, we found the saddle to be extremely comfortable, without any unnecessary bulk. The seatpost has a Quick Release, which is beneficial to adjust the saddle height while on the go. The saddle on this bicycle is colour-coded with the bicycle, and is a bright and bold Blue. The overall ride quality of this bicycle was pleasant and satisfactory.