Polygon Xtrada 7 29 (2022) - Review

The Xtrada is equipped with an ALX full Alloy frame with a Cross-Country inspired geometry. The frame is built using hydroformed heat treatment technology which made sure the perfect balance of light weight and strength is achieved. This was evident during the test ride when the frame responded well to acceleration and climbs.The Suntour XCR-32 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 immensely helped in making the ride faster on flatter patches.

Shimano's Deore MTB derailleur on the Xtrada 7 29 is known 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 1x12-Speed drivetrain has enough range for difficult climbs and for picking up speed as well. The dropping of the front derailleur has truly become a norm in performance and race specific MTBs as it helps in keeping the shifting easier and quick. This gearing setup is complete with Deore shifters which were easy and responsive to use.

This Hardtail XC MTB which I test rode came in a dual shade White and Purple colours in the frame with a bit of Blue in a few places as the secondary colour. The internal cable routing for the derailleur and brake cables made the Bicycle look neat and organized. The gloss finish paint job was top notch in quality.

The Shimano Hydraulic Disc brakes were as powerful as it can get on a Performance Focused Hardtail MTB. During the test ride, these brakes were not just powerful but also balanced even 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 handlebars length makes it uncomfortable for tight maneuvers.

The Xtrada 7 29 rolls on a pair of WTB Trail 29” x 2.25” 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.