Polygon Bend R5 (2022) - Review

The Polygon Bend R5 is built on an ALX Gravel Aluminium frame. Whilst there is a notion that Bicycles like the Bend R5, which are also meant to be ridden on rough surfaces have heavier frames, this is not the case with this frame as the hydro forming triple butted tubing system has helped shape the tubes in a way to use material only where it is needed the most. Acceleration was top notch and the riding position was comfortable. The frame was well supported by a lightweight rigid Carbon fork.

The Bend R5 is equipped with Shimano's GRX RX81 groupset. This 1x11-Speed drivetrain is gravel specific and the shifting was quick and responsive during the test ride. The Shimano GRX-81 shifter has no gear indicators, Shimano have gone for a sleek look which is similar to the 15 and Ultegra.

This Road Bicycle from Polygon which we test rode came in a dual shade of Dark Maroon and Charcoal Grey. The paint job quality was smooth with aesthetic graphics. Internal cable routing for the gears and dropper seat post made sure the Bicycle looked neat and also increases the life of the cables.

To make it a complete performance focused groupset, the Polygon Bend R5 222's stopping power is handled by Shimano RX81 Hydraulic Disc brakes. These Hydraulic Disc brakes are powerful and reliable in performance thanks to Shimano's significant increase in modulation.The handlebar on this Bicycle was comfortable on both the hoods and drops. The bar tape was grippy which is useful when riding with wet hands and gloves.

The Vee branded 65x47C Gravel tires were perfect for touring and climbing on uneven surfaces. The rubber compounds were strong and does give a long life, thus making it value for money.The Entity Stock Saddle was designed ergonomically for an Endurance Gravel Bicycle to make sure the rider can be seated for long hours on rough surfaces without experiencing any soreness. The seat post on this Bicycle is a cable operated dropper Seatpost and is operated using the left side Shimano GRX paddle gear shift.