XCi Brave 29T 21S - Review

The XCi Brave 29T 21S is built around a Hardtail Steel frame. While Steel is known to be heavy, this Bicycle had a good distribution of weight which was evident when riding on both flats and inclines. The geometry was standard and comfort focused with a mildly slanting top tube.We can say this Bicycle is an all-rounder and is trail friendly by the functioning of the suspensions fork. The stock suspension on this Bicycle had sufficient working travel which is capable of handling rough urban roads and flat trails.

The XCi Brave 29T comes equipped with Shimano Tourney at the front and rear as derailleurs. These are entry-level gearing components in Shimano's MTB hierarchy and they performed to their limits during the test ride. On flat trails, rough urban roads and riding amidst traffic, these derailleurs were ideal for quick and short gear changes. The EZFire Shimano trigger shifters were easy to use and in easy reach from the handlebar grips.

The Brave 29T 21S from XCi which we test rode came with Army Green as the primary colour with Light Green and Black as the secondary colours for the graphics and text. The Black saddle with graphics is definitely eye catchy. The matte finish paint job was top notch in quality.

This Hardtail MTBs stopping power is handled by a pair of Trioblade Mechanical Disc brakes at the front and rear. These brakes were powerful, safe and balanced on both rough and smooth roads. Both interval and jamming of brakes felt in control when used during the test ride.The MTB handlebar on this Bicycle was both comfortable and wide enough to give the rider an open chested riding posture.

The 29” x 2.1” MTB tires on the XCi Brave 29T 21S were heavily treaded to generate a lot of traction on rough surfaces. While the 29” circumference handles the fast rolling resistance, the 2.1” width makes sure the Bicycle is stable and balanced on muddy and rough roads.The stock saddle had enough cushioning to keep the rider comfortable on bumpy rides.