Schwinn Sidewinder 2.6 FS Gets a 10.0!
Written: Jun 10 '03 (Updated Dec 11 '09)
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Very Affordable, Light weight, Attractive styling
Cons: Some components need upgrading.
The Bottom Line: The affordable price and quality per dollar make the Sidewinder a great bike for beginners and weekend riders.
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| vangogh55's Full Review: Schwinn Sidewinder 2.6 FS 26-Inch Mens' All-Terrai... |
My girlfriend and I recently decided to take on a sport together so we thought I should get a Mountain Bike to accompany her on rides around the various trails available. Our first thought was a local specialty bike shop but I know about the current pricing and decided against instead we took a ride to Walmart where I found the Schwinn Sidewinder 2.6 FS.
My first thought about this bike was “it’s a Schwinn” and I know the brand for many years. My second thought was it pretty much has everything I need until I decide to get a more professional bike if I so desire.
I have now had the Sidewinder for about 3 weeks and ridden it quite a bit of miles. It has a smooth ride and brakes well. The Shimano gears shift smooth and somewhat precise. At times I notice a squeaky noise come from the handle bar stem connection but that’s about it.
My only problems are some of the components are below par. The crank center is made of a plastic material and I’m afraid it may crack with time. The front chain gaurd is plastic and offers little protection. The pedals are also plastic and feet may slip on occasion because of poor grip. All of this is something that I was aware of at the time of purchase and I knew needed to be upgraded. There are two or three more things but its mostly performance based decisions and not because the parts are cheap. You do after all get what you pay for.
The Sidewinder does have some very good features and components. The ProMax V-Brakes, quick release saddle post and quick release front rim are very nice features. The Sidewinder also comes with RST 191 CL Alum. Fork shocks as a standard. There is also a great SRAM Gripshift Max next to each handgrip to operate the Shimano 7SIS derailluers and gears. The Gripshift rotates very smoothly but I think the rotary knob should be one size bigger for even better grip.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID: vangogh55
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Location: Miami Florida
Reviews written: 15
Trusted by: 0 members
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