Several bikers are not aware of the Allen Sports cycle brand. It is indeed a new brand, owned and run by the Allen group which has already made its name for its manufacturing of high quality bicycle carriers and racks. Their cycle range started only in 2014 and hence is relatively new for most of us.
The Urban 1 is one of the 5 varieties available from the Allen Sports. It is a simple machine meant for simple usage in the city, so do not expect anything more than ordinary from it. However, simple does not mean low quality here as the body and all components found here are top of the line, with no compromise.
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Rating:
4.40 / 5.00
Price:
$$$ on Amazon (September 12 2015)
Warranty
The frame (alloy or steel) is warranted for life by Allen and will be replaced if any manufacturing error or riding fault occurs during any point in the bikes life.
The fork and other components (excluding those which can wear) have a warranty of a single year from the date of purchase.
Warranty can only be availed by the first user of the product.
Pros and Cons:
Effortless Folding Mechanism No Foldable Pedals
Solid Frame Bulky
Expensive (Original Price)
First Impression:
The simplicity of the product allows the model to look clean and nice.
Detailed Review:
The bike is available in two bright colours: Navy and Red. You can purchase it online at Amazon. At the time of the writing Amazon is offering a crazy 48% discount on the product which amounts to $ 314 in saving.
Your product is delivered within a week. It is not really a ride out of the box machine and depending on the amount of shipping damage (if any), the assembly can take from 10 minutes to 30 minutes or even more. Generally the bike requires minor adjustments in the brakes and the handle post. The wheels might require truing, which can be done at any mechanic shop. Once ready you can get the product registered at the Allen store website.
The frame is made of high tension aluminium (6061), which makes it extraordinarily sturdy while still light enough for the practicality of a foldable. The design is well thought out and engineered to perfection. You can say that it is an entry level bike which means it has compromised on its finishing, however everything about this product is a reflection of mid-level to premium foldables by more renowned brands. It is very easy to mount the bike and the sturdy frame means that you feel confident while riding it, with a feeling of a full bike rather than a small one.
The engine has a single speed drive. It may be a turn off to those who love speed, however for normal usage the single speed is more than convenient. The speed is not great if you are climbing hills but for flat tracks, you are not going to mind. It is able to provide a stable and smooth ride and requires little to no regular maintenance.
The mechanical brakes are powerful enough to endure the single speed and stop on short distances. You might need to tune up the brakes in the start but once that is done, you will probably not need to touch them for a long time.
The wheels are 451MM (17.7 inches). Although small, these offer great performance and are very responsive. Due to their small size they offer better handling than your standard 20 or 26 inch wheels. You will have to pedal more compared to the bigger wheels to cover more distance. The Schrader tires on the wheel are of the top quality. They are not from a premium brand but offer the same quality and durability.
The DDK saddle is pretty comfortable. It is however narrow in size and might need some adjusting to, for a better feeling off it.
Allen Folding Bikes utilize a patented collapsing framework that permits the bike to be totally collapsed in less than 8 seconds. The press linkage outline makes to a great degree a stiff frame when the bike is set up which minimizes flexing when riding. Allen folding bicycles consolidate a press release back wheel lock that keeps your bicycle in a collapsed position when shut, and offers the choice to move the bike like a trolley for simple transportation. The bike is also bulky, which means you are not going to enjoy carrying it folded for long times unless you want a work out and / or a hurting back.
The bike also features a kickstand and water bottle holder, which are pleasant inclusions and will be handy at times.
There is not much to say regarding the downsides of the bike. The pedals could have been better. Even though they are foldable, the low lying position of the pedals make it hard to reach them for some bikers. The hubs could also have done with better quality. The lack of QR level on the wheel locks would also have been nice.
Specifications:
- Grey, Green, Blue Colours
- Speed: Single
- WinZip Rear Brake
- Alloy one piece Handlebar Post
- DDK 3166 Saddle
- Maximum weight of rider: 242 lbs.
- Suggested rider height: 4’9″ (145cm) to 6’6″ (198cm)
- Package mass: 34 lbs.
- Front Brake: WinZip
- Seat post: Hi-ten Steel
- Weight: 26 lbs (11.8 kgs)
- Compact Dimensions: 15.4 inches x 33.5 inches x 28 inches
- Tires: 451mm
- Handlebar: Steel
- Valve on tire: Shraeder
- 6061 Aluminium Frame
- Forks: Lightweight Steel
- Rims: P-6N Alloy
- Crank Set: Samox
- Box dimensions: 34 x 25.5 x 15.5 inches
Conclusion:
Few will argue about the capability of the Urban 1 given its price range. However, you might not find a lot of support for the product among your peers since the brand is not the most popular one. But don’t be put off by that, the Urban is a great choice especially if you are restrained with your budget. You will have a good experience on this bike!
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