Are you interested in getting a fixed gear bicycle? Are you new to single speed bikes and want to try it out? If so, then the Retrospec Mantra V2 Fixie Bicycle is for you. Even if you’ve been riding fixed gear bikes, you can still get a lot of enjoyment out of the Mantra.
The is an upgrade of the Retrospec Mantra Fixie. If you are interested in a fixed-gear bicycle, you will love the Mantra V2 in many ways. Although it does not differ much from the original Mantra, its upgrades include the sealed cartridge bearing hubs and front /rear Promax brakes for enhanced safety on the road.
The Mantra still stands out as one of the best crossovers in the fixed-gear bicycle world. Although with a bit few improvements from the original Mantra, the Mantra V2 has a much better experience, especially for novice riders. In this review, we look at Mantra V2 in detail and try to compare its features to the predecessor.
Handlebar Brakes
The one feature that stands out in the Mantra Fixie is the handlebar brakes. This feature was added specifically to enhance safety for newbies when slowing down. With the Mantra V2, there are some improvements to the braking system compared to the original Mantra.
While reverse cycling can slow it down, this bike comes with front and rear Promax brakes. These are high precision brakes that can be controlled over the handles. However, backpedaling is just as effective if you get used to the fixed-gear bicycle.
Coasting on a Fixed Gear
Another important feature of the Mantra V2 is its flip-flop hub. Although it is expected that a fixed-gear bicycle moves forward with every pedal, the Mantra V2, just like the original Mantra, still caters to single-speed riders. With two cogs on the rear wheel, you can easily shift between the single speed and the fixed-gear riding.
To shift between the two, all you have to do is remove the back wheel, flip, and you are set to coast. This is a key feature of the crossover since it takes time for most novice riders to get used to the fixed-gear cycling energy needs.
Variety of Choice
The Mantra V2 also boasts of a variety of choices. This bike is customizable and also comes in multiple sizes and colors. Besides the flip-flop hub, the bike is also customizable in plenty of ways. There are also various sizes to cater to different age groups. They include 43cm, 49cm, 53cm, 57cm, and 61cm.
Safety and Durability
The features that make this bike durable include its frame and tires. The bike is made out of a sturdy yet lightweight structure. The high tensile steel is suitable for everyday riders and works better for city commuters who prefer a light bike for easy cruising.
The other feature that guarantees safety for users is the Kenda Kwest tires. These are among the best bike tires, known for their smooth edges with a strong grip. They boast of high volume water displacement grooves, making the bike ideal for both dry and rainy seasons.
Low Maintenance
The Mantra V2 comes with the sealed cartridge bearing hub. This is an important improvement from the original Mantra since it protects your bike from waste and dirt. This means that you will have to spend less on repairs since your bike’s vital parts are covered.
Pros
- Light and durable tensile steel frame
- A safety braking system for novice riders
- All-weather use with the Kenda Kwest tires for water displacement.
- Convenient flip-flop hub for coasting
- Plenty of sizes and designs to choose from.
Cons
- Not ideal for hardcore fixed-gear riders.
- The brakes may be too precise for novice riders
- Must change the tire to shift between fixed-gear and single-speed.
FAQs
Some of the commonly asked questions about this bike include:
Q: Does the mantra V2 come assembled?
A: The bikes come 80 to 90 percent assembled. To get your Mantra V2 ready, you will be required to fix the heel, pedals, handlebars, saddle.
Q: Can you change the handlebars?
A: All Restrospec bicycles are customizable. If you order from their website, you may request to have custom handlebars.
Q: Does this bike have front and rear brakes?
A: The Mantra V2 has brakes on both rear and front wheels, an improvement from the original Mantra, which only had brakes on the front wheel.
Final Verdict
The Retrospec Bicycles Mantra V2 Single Speed Fixed Gear Bicycle is one of the best bicycles for all riders. Whether you enjoy single-speed bikes or fixed-gear bikes, the Mantra V2 tries to balance both options in one bike.
I enjoy this bike because it breaks the boundaries of biking. It allows you the freedom to enjoy your single-speed riding with coasting when you want. At the same time, you enjoy the high performance associated with fixed-gear biking, especially when in the mood for exercising.