Schwinn Frontier Expert
Awhile back, Schwinn had a pretty extensive line of mountain bikes. Today’s lineup is a lot smaller, but the Frontier Expert ($439) looks like the real deal for someone who wants a trailworthy bike that won’t cost a fortune. It’s the summit of the current Schwinn off-road offerings.
The Frontier Expert’s frame angles stretch the rider out into an assertive trailriding position. The frame isn’t quite aggressive and racy, but it’s built to corner and climb. This is essential. A bike has to handle well to avoid frustrating a new rider. I’d bet on the Frontier Expert to deliver.
And really - we’re talking about a sub-$500 bike with not only a suspension fork, but disc brakes. The components are workhorse-functional, not fancy. This is the gateway bike that can lure you into mountain biking.
Where to Find One in the Phoenix Area: Sun Cyclery
Cannondale Trail SL2
The Trail SL comes in three different flavors: A 26-inch-wheeled version, and two types of singlespeed (27-speed and singlespeed). The two 27-speed models are $1,069. The SL2 gets you a high-quality frame and a very capable Rock Shox Recon Silver suspension fork. The 29er version comes with an RST Deuce suspension fork. I’ve never used an RST fork, and it’s the part of this Cannondale that piques my interest most (I love the unknown). Another highlight - hydraulic disc brakes.
With a frame this good, you can also upgrade parts as you feel the need. The only upgrade you’ll need to make immediately is a set of clipless pedals.
Worth noting: Cannondale frames are known for being stiff. They accelerate like crazy because that stiffness puts all your leg power to work. But they’re not the smoothest ride. You’ll have to hone your technique to avoid the bumps.
Where to find one in the Phoenix Area: Slippery Pig Bikes
Airborne Goblin
Here we are at the highest range of our “value bike” spectrum. The Goblin is $1,199, and absolutely stuffed with good parts: The Reba fork and Avid Elixir R brakes would be at home on a bike twice the price. The SRAM X-7 20-speed drivetrain is capable, but not flashy.
Here’s the thing, though: The Goblin is mostly available through the Airborne website. Word is there are a few stores where you can test and buy in-person. I wasn't able to find one in Phoenix. The bike will arrive 8o-percent assembled (according to the website). You either need to know how to finish it, or you’ll have to take it to a local shop. And you can’t test-ride before you buy.
So who would buy a bike they can’t try first? Riders with a quiver full of bikes - they want to try a fast-rolling 29er and want quality parts. They probably do most of their own maintenance. They’re willing to compromise on derailleurs and cranks (no slam on X-7, but you’ll see very little X-7 getting sold aftermarket), but insist on excellent suspension. They want a race-oriented, sharp-handling bike for a relatively low price, and they don’t care about brand name.
Factor in $50 for shipping. You’ll need to supply your own pedals, and you may need to pay the local shop to finish the build.
Find one at: AirborneBicycles.com
Schwinn is celebrating May Bike Month with their Bike it Forward program, giving away free bikes every day of May encouraging people to ride. Enter to win a bike for a friend. If you win, you get a free bike, too. Use your Facebook or email account to choose a friend you’d like to Bike it Forward to at Schwinnbikes.com or Ride Schwinn on Facebook.
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