Firefox Razor D 21 Speed : ChooseMyBicycle.com Expert Review

The Razor D is designed carefully with a frameset that measures 18'and comprises of a steel full suspension frame. The Zoom front suspension of 50 mm is just enough for the bumps on the road while travelling to school or a ride around the neighborhood with your friends. This cycle can be taken on a flat trail for a MTB experience, but do not expect the 50mm front suspension to take away all the shocks from the terrain. The rear suspension which is made of steel is not the best to give a pain free ride, nor is it a mere aesthetic feature.

Available in 2 colors, black and parrot-green, the Firefox Razor D 21 Speed has a neat high quality paint job. The parrot-green bicycle which I test rode had a less complicated colour shade with the brand name and model name clearly embossed on the top and bottom tubes. The white colour front suspension forks makes a good contrast to the primary green shade. The back suspension component is a stand-out in black colour with a good design connecting it to the seat stays.

The Firefox Razor D 21 Speed is powered by the entry level Shimano Tourney components at the front and rear. Tourney is designed for basic riding and non-competitive riding. It is constructed in black and chrome and blends flawlessly with the bicycle's design. The 21 speed gearing is operated by the Shimano EF51 thumb shifters. The gearing at the rear isn't smooth with slow and noisy gear transitions making you often wonder if something is wrong with the chains. But it is usually just the noise created before the shifting takes effect on the derailleur. The shifters are perfectly placed and function smoothly without any discomfort to the fingers.

The braking department in the Razor D 21 Speed is quite unique with a combination of disc brakes at the front and traditional V-brakes at the rear. The Tektro Novela Disc Brakes at the front is a welcome feature for a bicycle targeted at teenagers, at this price point. It increases the safety level of braking a bit and is also a cool feature which any rider would be proud to show off. The back V-brakes are basic with brake pads strong enough to make halting in traffic a less difficult affair. These brakes are controlled by Shimano brake levers which were long enough and responded well to quick interval braking.

The all steel handlebar in the Firefox Razor D 21 Speed is 580mm in length which is a good length for a bicycle meant for city use and the occasional flat trail rides. The 30mm rise in the handlebar makes sure that the rider's posture isn't very aggressive thus making it comfortable.

The 26'' x 2.10'' tires in the Razor D 21 Speed are well treaded to handle wet roads. I was surprised at the 2.10'' tire width which actually makes a noticeable difference in traction and weight balance while going at fast speeds and at turns. The stock saddle in this bicycle was just bulkier but definitely not the most comfortable one with a few inches shorter in length and width. The over-all ride quality was comfortable on city roads.