GT Aggressor Sport (2015) : ChooseMyBicycle.com Expert Review

GT¾has been involved in mountain bicycle racing since the early 90s and are known for their top notch frame and build quality. There is plenty of that DNA left over 20 years later too on this bicycle's alloy frame, including GT's trademark Triple Triangle design, which extends the seatstays past the seat tube and on to the top tube to increase stiffness. While there is still generous clearance for muddy conditions, this creates a firmly power friendly rear end that relishes being kicked into action hard at every possible opportunity. It is not surprising to see a¾SR Suntour M3030¾fork on a bicycle at this price. During the test ride the front suspension fork achieved its promised 63mm of travel something that's not always possible on budget forks and although it's a bit fluttery over heavy-duty terrain and when braking hard, it offers a much better controlled rebound action than most.

GT de´Œnitely wins the paintjob prize here, with a classy Matte Black/White ´Œnish that resembles the texture found on more expensive bicycles. The GT Aggressor Sport 2015 also comes in a White/Blue colour variant. There aren't any constructional gimmicks on this MTB either, just useful things like a slightly flattened top tube which reduces the frame weight. The GT MTB Saddle is wider by mountain bicycle standards which feels very comfortable.

Transmission matches the usual EZ-Fire shifters with a pair of 21 speed Shimano Tourney groupset unit in the GT Aggressor Sport 2015. This budget MTB gearing component clearly implies that this bicycle is not meant for tougher trails but for a mix of both easy trails and the occasional rides on city roads. The shifters are positioned perfectly on the handlebar with no need to stretch out too much to access the thumb and index shift levers. This group set might not be the smoothest on the Shimano hierarchy but it does the job for this recreational MTB.

The linear pull V- brakes react decently on average speeds. The short and responsive brake levers make sure the braking is precise and swift. This braking component is of entry level standards and fulfills the needs demanded during easier trails. Just make sure to clean the brake pads properly and periodically before hitting the trail, mainly in wet and gritty conditions.

The Alloy MTB Riser handlebar is engineered with high-performance aluminum alloy which yields an impressive strength-to-weight ratio. For general trail riding the riser bar is a big positive on the Aggressor Sport, as it offers excellent leverage, a well setup body/hand position and spot-on control. The GT custom grips on the handlebar is equally impressive as it sticks on to the palm well and will be a big advantage during wet conditions.

The all-terrain 27.5, GT's in-house tires on the Aggressor Sport 2015 are listed as 2.10 inches, but they are quite tall for extra trail-smoothing volume. The tread pattern is at its best on hard surfaces, with some worthwhile side knobs. The deep-rimmed wheels and tires are heavy and draggy in acceleration, only making up for that via the deep tread pattern that grips tenaciously to muddy terrains. Putting together all this the over-all ride quality of this MTB is decent for moderate trails and the occasional city rides.