Montra Timba 1.1D (2018) - Review

by Simon Ananda Raj May 19, 2025 1 min read

Montra launched their 2018 range of bicycles recently. The hybrid range from Montra is their biggest in terms of the number of models. One such higher variant of the Montra hybrid range is the Timba 1.1, which was first launched in 2017. We got the opportunity to test ride the Montra Timba 1.1D (2018) and here is what we thought.

A comfortable and fast ride in the city and a definite head turner with its aesthetics.

Simon Ananda Raj

Montra Timba 1.1D (2018)

Snapshot

3.9

Product Rating Out of 5

Performance 3.8

Design 4.2

Features 3.7

Value for Money 3.7
THINGS WE LIKE

✔ Comfortable ride geometry

✔ Aesthetic design

✔ Responsive mechanical disc brakes

THINGS WE DON'T LIKE

✖ Steel Fork

✖ N/A

✖ N/A
Frame

Timba 700c Aluminium Alloy

The alloy frame was lightweight with a comfortable ride geometry.
Fork

Steel

The steel rigid fork on this bicycle was bladed.
Gearing

Shimano Altus 3x7-Speed

The Shimano Altus 21-Speed derailleurs were perfect for those occasional long distance rides.
Breaks

Mechanical Disc Brakes

The Mechanical Disc brakes were powerful and balanced to use on urban roads.
Tires

Kenda K934 700x35c

The 700x35C hybrid tires from Kenda helped zip through traffic.
Battery

N/A

N/A

: The Timba 1.1D (2018) is built on an aluminium alloy frame. This frame is not so different in terms of material but the welding and shapes have had some good changes to it. Both the bottom and the top tubes aren’t tubular or flat but rather a mix of both with both these tubes bulging at the front. This has made sure there is enough weight only in areas of the frame which would have to withstand maximum weight. This has significantly reduced the weight of the frame. The frame geometry was comfortable for both short commutes and longer rides. The steel rigid forks on this bicycle were bladed but we were surprised why an alloy fork was not used to reduce the weight even more.

The alloy frame was lightweight with a comfortable ride geometry
: Montra have gone with the same gearing groupset for the 218 version as the 217 version of the Timba. The Shimano Altus derailleurs at the front and back power this bicycle. Even though being beginner level groupsets, these derailleurs worked well during the test ride with no lags or glitches. The Shimano ST-EF5 21-Speed shifters felt smooth and easy to operate.

The Shimano Altus 21-Speed derailleurs were perfect for those occasional long distance rides
: The Timba 1.1D was easily one of the few eye catchers amongst the 218 Montra range. The bicycle which I test rode came in a full blue frame with green graphics. The gradual change from sleek to bulge on the top and bottom tubes certainly made the bicycle look stylish. The checked line pattern on the frame and the top quality gloss paint job definitely enhanced the aesthetics of this bicycle.

The Timba 1.1D comes in only 1 colour variant, Gloss blue with green graphics
: The exciting new change in the 218 version of the Timba comes in the form of Disc brakes. Yes, the Timba 1.1D (2018) comes with a pair of Mechanical Disc brakes. These disc brakes were powerful enough for urban roads and the brake levers also felt responsive to use.The XMR Zoom alloy handlebar was the same as last year with a width of 62mm, which felt comfortable to hold on to and ride. The ergo grips with padding for the palms were a good addition.

The Mechanical Disc brakes were powerful and balanced to use on urban roads
: The Kenda K934 7x35C hybrid tires were the same as last year. These tires along with strong alloy rims made sure this bicycle could zip past traffic while having good traction on both wet and dry road conditions. The XMR Comfort saddle was well cushioned to keep the rider free of soreness on longer rides. The overall ride quality was smooth and comfortable on urban roads.

The 7x35C hybrid tires from Kenda helped zip through traffic

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Quote
: The only change in the 218 version of the Montra Timba is the upgrade to Disc Brakes. The Mechanical Disc brakes and the comfortable frame geometry makes this hybrid bicycle a joy to ride on city roads. If you are someone looking to buy a good looking and comfortable hybrid bicycle the Montra Timba 1.1D is an ideal choice for you.Prices are subject to change by the brand, without due notice.