Montra Madrock 26 (2016) : ChooseMyBicycle.com Expert Review

The Madrock is built around a 6061 aluminium frame which was top notch in terms of build quality and geometry. After closely examining the weld sections and also experiencing the power and vibration transfers from the surface during the test ride it was evident that this bicycle was very well capable of tackling flatter and rough trails. At this price, this frame is definitely a bargain feature on an entry level MTB like the Madrock 26 2016. The frame weight seemed to be heavier than required for an MTB, some careful joint welding might have shaved off some material weight.

The Zoom front suspension fork worked to about 40mm of travel comfortably which is decent enough to take it on trails with smaller bumps. The travel wasnêt the smoothest though and might become less reactive as time goes by.

It is important for a budget bicycle to not give away its price tag by going low on the design. Montra Madrock 26 2016 has tackled that pretty well. The bicycle I test rode came in a full black colour with prominent light green shades in various parts of the bicycle. The colour coded gear and brake cables added better aesthetical features to the bicycle. There are a few functional design features such as a bottle cage holder screw and fender mounts on both the front and back. Matte finish paint job to top all this made sure this bicycle looked more like a higher end MTB.

There were no real surprised in the gearing department on the Madrock 26 2016. The full Shimano Tourney groupset powered both the front and rear derailleurs. Gearing is essential for those quick burst speeds on trails and the lower end of gears are your only way to conquer those inclines. The gearing in the Madrock will do your basic job on trails but do not expect smooth and quick transfer of speeds as the reaction time is a little slow. The rear derailleurs were slightly more bouncy which was worrying. The Shimano ST-EF40 21 speed shifters were comfortable to use mainly due to their close placement next to the handlebar grips.

Entry level to professional, all types of MTBês need one feature to never disappoint them and always perform at its best, the brakes. The Madrock 26 is surprisingly equipped with a mechanical disc brake at both the front and back. These disc brakes proved useful for muddy surfaces but lacked the perfect balance in braking. The Shimano ST-EF40 brake levers made for V-brakes has been modified to be used to engage these disc brakes, a common cost cutting mechanism. These arenêt the best disc brakes you can find but they are disk brakes and at this price it is definitely an exciting component to have on your MTB.

The 580mm steel handlebar on this bicycle had a slight raise from the centre. This helps to not only be in a comfortable position on trails but also easy enough for quick trips around the neighbourhood.

Tires are one other component which can make or break a trail riding experience. The Wanda 26êê x 1.95êê MTB tires on the Madrock 26 2016 had thick and spaced out treads. Duly supported by the XMR alloy double walled rims, the total wheelset even though slightly on the heavier side, does give enough traction but gets down on rolling speed. The XMR Montra comfort saddle had enough cushion to support the quick vibrations. But the lack of an ergonomic shape to it will start showing whilst out on longer rides. The overall ride quality was smooth and fast on flat trails and city streets.