Montra Trance D (2018) - Review

by Simon Ananda Raj May 19, 2025 1 min read

The 2018 range of bicycles from Montra saw the successful Trance hybrid models being launched in 3 variants. The Trance has always been known for being a strong and multipurpose hybrid bicycle with multiple size options. We got the opportunity to test ride the first timer, the Montra Trance D (2018) and here is what we thought.

A well spec’d and comfortable hybrid bicycle built for urban roads.

Simon Ananda Raj

Montra Trance D (2018)

Snapshot

3.8

Product Rating Out of 5

Performance 3.7

Design 3.8

Features 3.9

Value for Money 3.7
THINGS WE LIKE

✔ Responsive mechanical disc brakes

✔ 4 Frame Sizes

✔ N/A

THINGS WE DON'T LIKE

✖ Slightly heavy frame

✖ N/A

✖ N/A
Frame

Trance 700c Aluminium Alloy

The aluminium alloy frame comes in sizes ranging from Small to X-Large.
Fork

Zoom CH120E Suspension Fork With 50mm Travel

The 50mm travel is the bare minimum but was enough for the usual potholes and speed breakers.
Gearing

Shimano Tourney 3x7-Speed

The Shimano Tourney 21-Speed derailleurs worked well and are suitable for commutes and leisure long distance rides.
Breaks

Mechanical Disc Brakes

The mechanical disc brakes felt safe and balanced to use on urban roads.
Tires

Seyoun 700x35c

The 700x35C hybrid tires with XMR alloy rims were both strong and fast.
Battery

N/A

N/A

: The Montra Trance D is built around a strong aluminium alloy frame. The frame strength can be felt when riding, thanks to its top and bottom tubes. They are of the right size, not too bulky nor too sleek. Even though it is a little heavy while pedalling, it can withstand the hardest of urban roads. The riding posture was comfortable and wasn’t aggressive at all. The bulged seat tube, which has been there for a few years now does help a little in absorbing vibration of the surface.The Trance D comes with a Zoom front suspension fork. The 5mm travel is the bare minimum but was enough for the usual potholes and speed breakers.

The aluminium alloy frame comes in sizes ranging from Small to X-Large
: This hybrid bicycle is equipped with Shimano Tourney derailleurs at both the front and rear. These derailleurs were just enough for short commutes and leisure rides. There were no major negatives in the gear-shifting department, which was assisted by a 21-Speed Shimano EF-5 trigger shifters. Shimano Tourney's are the most basic gearing components and an upgrade to Shimano Altus at least at the rear was expected for the price of this bicycle.

The Shimano Tourney 21-Speed derailleurs worked well and are suitable for commutes and leisure long distance rides
: The Montra Trance D which I test rode came in a full black frame with a little bit of white and green graphics at a few places. The matte finish paint job was of great quality, which made the bicycle look premium. The disconnected top/bottom tubes made the bicycle look a little taller.

The tall frame geometry with bulged seat tube and matte finish paint job increased the aesthetic appeal of this bicycle
: The new upgrade to this year's Trance is the addition of mechanical disc brakes, which adds a new riding experience for anyone looking to take this bicycle for long touring rides. During the test ride these brakes felt balanced and safe to use.The XMR handlebar was 6mm in width which made for a perfect riding posture. The grips on the handlebar dint have a palm support and hence would require some extra support to keep the palms pain free on longer rides.

The mechanical disc brakes felt safe and balanced to use on urban roads
: The Seyoun 7x35C hybrid tires gave great rolling assistance on flat tarmacs and provided enough traction on both wet and dry urban roads. Also these tires are capable of taking the weight of the rider plus some luggage in case of touring without affecting its balance and strength. The XMR saddle is all about comfort. It is wide and well cushioned to keep you comfortable on the saddle for long hours with ease. The overall ride quality was comfortable on rough urban roads.

The 7x35C hybrid tires with XMR alloy rims were both strong and fast

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: This hybrid bicycle is smooth to pedal and comfortable to sit on. The heavy frame doesn’t affect the performance of the bicycle on short commutes and can only be felt a little on longer rides. Priced at Rs.2,2 the Montra Trance D (2018) is the ideal choice for anyone looking to buy a bicycle for commuting, fitness rides and even occasional touring. Prices are subject to change by the brand, without due notice.