Mach City Ibike Multi Speed : ChooseMyBicycle.com Expert Review

This new Mach City iBike, much like some other recent steel frame offerings, is about getting back to cycling's roots and escaping the latest technology that we so often get caught up in. The iBike Multi Speed is made solely of steel and has classical rounded tubing, with smooth bends in the right places and held together by clean welds. This creates a traditional aesthetic that isn't often seen on the roads today.

Though this bicycle is not designed as a hybrid meant to compete with the latest bicycles in either carbon or alloy, we are convinced that with the right components it is still possible to build a competitively weighted bicycle. The stock saddle, though feels comfortable with the right amount of cushioning, could have been shaped better ergonomically. Edit: The Mach City iBike Multi Speed is now available in an additional large size with new colour variants such as yellow and white other than the already existing black and red.¾

For a bicycle at this price it is clear that you are not going to get a wall-to-wall top-end kit on the Mach City iBike Multi Speed, but equally you have a right to expect a smattering of quality. Mach City have judiciously installed gearing with the Shimano Tourney 1x7 Speed rear derailleur which successfully walks the line between efficiency, durability and affordability. This Shimano Tourney rear derailleur is mated to the Shimano Tourney Revo shifters with easy grip shifting. The gearing is basic and does the job well for urban riding and a bit of easy trails.

The Alloy V-brakes in the iBike Multi Speed is sturdy enough with decent stopping power. It might not perform at its best on wet and greasy conditions while trying to make sudden halts. The steel handlebar curves in a bit to give a more upright position to the rider. The length of the handlebar does seem short and makes the shoulders too close than it should be. The Revo shifter on the right hand side makes the handlebar grip lose an inch of useable bar area making it a little uncomfortable for riders with bigger palms.

The 26'' x 1.95'' Ranson nylon tires is what makes this bicycle usable not only on city roads but also on flat muddy trails occasionally. The width of these tires give more stability and balance on uneven surfaces. The stock rims are painted black. Even though this makes for an aesthetical upgrade on looks, it feels like paint and might wear off during the course of time. The overall ride quality is on the bumpy side with vibrations easily transmitted from the road to the hands during a ride.