Btwin My Bike 7s (2016) : ChooseMyBicycle.com Expert Review

The Btwin My Bike 7s test ride bicycle was in pure black with the shine and bling of steel felt instantly. The steel frame geometry is as simple as it can get with no unnecessary material used anywhere on this bicycle. Aesthetically the bicycle is clean and classy, but the cable routing from the handlebar along the down tube looks a bit messy. Btwin have got the frame geometry perfect which makes sure the rider is in a perfect upright position. Of course this steel frame is as rigid as it can get, with all the vibrations from the road instantly transferred to the body. But this isn't a surprise at this price point.

The My Bike 7s is equipped with the entry level Shimano 1x7 rear derailleur. Initially there was a little slipping in the lower gears, but after a minute's fettling it settled into smooth-shifting ease. The microshift grip shifters surprisingly don't eat up on handlebar length and also has a bit of rubber cushioning on it which makes the shifter area even more useful as a grip. This gearing does enable one's commute to be much easier while staying seated for gaining speed. Yes, you might spin out on longer than the average commuting distances, but that's not the main area of strength for the My Bike 7s.

The basic helical spring V-brake calipers in the My Bike 7s are of decent quality, but they lack immediate stopping power on the 36 hole alloy rims. The brakes did improve with use, but we never felt truly confident in traffic or at high speed. The 580mm steel narrow handlebars make cutting through traffic easier, but the trade-off is a twitchier ride. The handlebar grips were not comfortable, and will make the palm/wrist uneasy over long distances. You might consider a better grip for a better handling experience, which is an easy and inexpensive upgrade to make.

The 26'' x 2.0'' Ralson semi-slick tires is one of the stand-out positives of the Btwin My Bike 7s. The thread patterns are excellent and with a 2'' width, these tires will be able to handle city roads with ease and also tackle the flat muddy trails without affecting the ride comfort. The ride quality is going to be bit of a rattle and it's not going to induce bicycle envy among your friends. But do not be fooled by this tough and purposeful bicycle.