Montra Trance (2017): ChooseMyBicycle.com Expert Review

The Montra Trance (2017) comes with a 6061 alloy frame which is strong and robust. The frame of the Trance series of bicycles have always been known to be on the heavier side but the positive has always been its strength and it can withstand a lot of beating from the surface. The tubes are welded smoothly on the edges and the extra bulge on the seat tube does take in some vibration. This frame comes in sizes from Small to XL which is a major positive for the rider to choose from.

The Montra Trance (2017) comes with a Zoom front suspension fork. This suspension fork has a 50mm travel. Yes, this is the least travel you will get out of a suspension fork but this was adequate for the small potholes and speed breakers in a city.

The Montra Trance model has always had something new to look forward to every year. The bicycle which I test rode came in a full black colour with green graphics. The frame geometry is neat and the bulged seat tube does add a different look to the frame. The colour coded rims and saddle does add to the aesthetics of the bicycle. This bicycle also comes in a red and grey colour variant.

The Trance (2017) comes with Shimano Tourney gearing at both the front and rear. These derailleurs are basic MTB gearing components which is a common practice on hybrid bicycles. These derailleurs worked well during the test ride. They transmitted quickly at both the front and rear. There were no slips or delay in the gear shifts. The shifting was a bit noisy though. The Shimano ST-EF500 21 speed shifters felt comfortable to use and were in easy reach for the hands from the handlebar grips.

The stopping power on the Trance 2017 is taken care of by a pair of power alloy V-brakes. These brakes with 110mm brake arms made sure the brakes are smooth and balanced. During the test ride, on slightly wet conditions these brakes worked safely and the quick interval braking was reactive. The Shimano ST-EF500 brake levers required only 3 fingers and made it easy to operate.

The XMR handlebar was wide and that made the riding posture wide chested. This made my test ride comfortable and I was always in control of the bicycle while going at high speeds and also while maneuvering through traffic.

The Trance (2017) rolls on a pair of 700C x 35C Seyoun hybrid tires. These tires were a good mix of roll over speed and grip even on wet roads. The treads were just about enough to handle the bicycle on turns and bumps. The wheel set on the whole is lightweight making the already heavy bicycle a little lighter.

The Zoom colour coded saddle on this bicycle was cushioned enough and also ergonomically shaped to keep the sit bones idle on the widest parts of the saddle. The overall ride quality of this bicycle is fast and comfortable on harsh urban roads.