Road Bike Reviews – Mountain Bike Gateway

Fairdale bikes offer a unique selection of high-end road bikes and inexpensive cruisers to bike riders from around the world. With the motto, "keepin' it simple keeps it fun". Fairdale bikes have a natural and intuitive feel so you can get the most enjoyment out of your riding experience. If you are in the market for a first bicycle, looking to upgrade to a newer model, or just browsing different styles, Fairdale is worth a look. Their bikes are quality-made, and with plenty of options to choose from, you are sure to find one that works for your tastes and budget. WHAT ARE FAIRDALE BIKES? The lineup of Fairdale bikes include models for all skill levels. These attractive and simplistic bikes are sold online and through dozens of dealers both in the USA and internationally. Fairdale bikes also sell bike gear, parts, accessories and clothing. The carrying capacity on many of these bike models is outstanding. The Fairdale Express model is designed for fast urban riders and features low-rise handlebars that mimic a mountain bikeThe Fairdale Flyer model is dubbed a user-friendly bike that requires very little adjustingThe Lookfar model is a commuter style bike that can handle city streets as well as tougher terrainThe Lookfar Drop bike is a practical model meant for entry level gravel ridersThe Taj is a BMX style cruiser bike designed for a fun and easy ride, but can also handle some serious actionThe Weekender Archer model is one of the original Fairdale bike designed for long commutes and weekend getawaysThe Weekender Nomad bike shines on rough roads and is made for travelersThe Fairdale Goodship model is a top-of-the-line road bike made of durable steel but still with a simple technology design PRODUCT SPECS Each Fairdale bike is designed to serve a different purpose for riders. The company continues to upgrade their models with carefully selected parts. The Express features a simple speed drive train and can be customized with a rack or fender for long-term use. This model is sold in two sizes, both with wide tires and a black frame. The Flyer is available in a vibrant Sunset Fade color and is an adaptable bike for many riders. The 7-speed drive train makes this model unique because it's always moving, even on bumpy roads. Fairdale's Lookfar bikes don't require special bike pumps because they are built with Schrader valve tubes. This model comes in an attractive mint green color. The Lookfar Drop is designed for basic and everyday transportation and comes in four different sizes. The Drop version adds drop bars for multiple riding positions and maximum comfort. The Lookfar Drop is very versatile and can be driven down trails and up vistas with ease. The Taj 26" candy blue Fairdale bike seems bulletproof while the 2019 Goodship is available in a fun surf blue or electric blue. The Goodship is a high-end bike featuring the Japanese Drawnright tubeset. Every Drawnright tubeset is heat-treated and specific to each frame. Fairdale bikes sell the Weekender models with powerful disc brakes and an easy-to-use shifting gear. Available in three sizes and soft billiard green frame, these models also have rack and fender mounts. PRICING Fairdale bikes are priced between $500 and $2,500, depending on the model. The most expensive Fairdale is the Goodship, mainly due to the custom tubeset design. The Goodship bikes are sold upwards of $1,300 for the most up-to-date model. If you're looking for a more cost-effective road bike, the Express, Flyer, Taj and Lookfar models can be bought for under $700. Fairdale bikes in the middle of this price range include the two Weekender models. The Nomad runs a little pricier than the $800-$900 Archer at around the $1,400 mark. You can save about $100 by purchasing the 2018 models of any Fairdale bikes. One model, the Daybird, is a tribute to the 3 speed bicycle and costs approximately $400-$500. This is the least expensive of the Fairdale 2018 lineup. The Frame+Fork Kits sold through the website range from $200 to $2,000. Other components, including skateracks, cruiser bars, swan grips, handlebar tape, bungee straps, bike seats and headsets can be purchased for under $60. HOW IT COMPARES We picked a few similar products available on the market to see how they compare with Fairdale bikes. In addition to Fairdale, we took a look at: MURTISOL MOUNTAIN BIKE 27.5’’ MEN’S AND WOMEN’S BIKE 21 SPEEDS FAST HYBRID BICYCLEMERAX FALCON FULL SUSPENSION MOUNTAIN BIKE ALUMINUM FRAME 21-SPEED 26-INCH BICYCLESCHWINN MEN'S WAYFARER HYBRID BIKE FAIRDALE BIKES The Fairdale Express is a mountain-bike style, fun model for commuters seeking a bike you can just "hop on and ride". Like the name of the bike implies, this model will get you where you want to go quickly. PRICE - $$The 2019 Express is priced at approximately $400-$450.EASE OF USEWe gave the Fairdale bike 5 stars for ease of use because these bikes are designed to be user-friendly and intuitive. The Express model is no exception, as the key features are its riding position and stable frame.ASSEMBLY TIMEThe bike comes partially assembled if purchased through the website. Additional components may require manual assembly. DESIGN QUALITYThis commuter bike can even come configured with a skaterack to hold a skateboard. We like how versatile this bike can be, despite its simple makeup. The mountain-bike style handlebars on this Fairdale bike enables the rider to take a commanding position on the road.WARRANTYFairdales have a five-year warranty for manufactured parts. The warranty does not cover damage for abuse or neglect or the finish of the bike. Warranties are not transferrable and an original receipt is required. Proof of assembly by a bike shop is also required with warranty claims. PROS Seamless and simple riding experience Adaptable, with the ability to add different components to your bikeFive-year manufacturing parts warranty CONS The top model Fairdale bikes are not cheap compared to other brandsLimited color and size optionsAssembly is required MURTISOL MOUNTAIN BIKE 27.5’’ MEN’S AND WOMEN’S BIKE 21 SPEEDS FAST HYBRID BICYCLE 3.7 out of 5 stars The Murtisol Mountain Bike is a stylish and comfortable hybrid sold in both men's and women's models. It's a cheaper option than Fairdale, but is still a decent bike. PRICE - $This bike can be purchased between $130-$160 before shipping. Shipping through Amazon is often free after a certain dollar amount is reached.EASE OF USEThe 21-speed hybrid is easy-to-use thanks to its reliability. The Murtisol can be used on all types of terrain and is easy to stop and adjust.ASSEMBLY TIMEIf you are handy, this bike shouldn't take too long to assemble. Expert assembly is available at an extra cost. Your local bike shop is also an option for assembly.DESIGN QUALITYWe found the Murtisol to be a quality-designed bicycle for casual users. The mountain bike is durable enough on bumpy and smooth surfaces, but long-term use and heavy riding may wear down this model.WARRANTYWe gave the warranty on the Murtisol a 2 star rating because Amazon did not provide any information and the manufacturer does not give out warranty information unless you buy. PROS Both men's and women's models are availableRelatively inexpensive bike for everyday useQuality parts CONS Assembly is required unless you purchase the expert assemblyAlthough made with quality parts, this model may not be durable over the long haul MERAX FALCON FULL SUSPENSION MOUNTAIN BIKE ALUMINUM FRAME 21-SPEED 26-INCH BICYCLE 4.2 out of 5 stars The full suspension Merax Falcon is an entry-level mountain bike for the day-to-day rider. It rides similar to a road bicycle and is a great bike for gliding up hills because of the multiple speed options. PRICE - $The Merax Falcon is sold for between $150-$250, which is a very reasonable price for a quality bike from this long-established, innovative brand bike.EASE OF USEWe found this mountain bike easy to use but lacking some in comfort. You may want to consider replacing the seat for a more comfortable option. The front tire is removable, making the Merax easy to store or attach to a bike rack when traveling.ASSEMBLY TIMEThis bike arrives 85% assembled. The tires need to be filled with air, and the pedals, handlebars, and front wheel need to be assembled. Tools are provided. Assembly instructions are easy to follow, but tuneup instruction is not as detailed. The whole process should take about 30 minutes.DESIGN QUALITYThe 21-speed shifter allows bikers to glide downhill or climb uphill with ease. The gripped rubber handlebars are high quality, and the bike has enhanced stopping power with its anti-skid tires. We found the brakes wear out rather quickly and the ride is somewhat bumpy. In addition, we've noted the bike is somewhat squeaky.WARRANTYThis bike comes with a one-year limited warranty and is rated for users weighing 330 pounds or less. PROS Quality mountain bike for a reasonable costEasy and quick assemblyRemovable tire makes it easy to store CONS No warranty information notedRides bumpy and wears down quickly, so may not be suitable as a road bikeSomewhat squeaky SCHWINN MEN'S WAYFARER HYBRID BIKE 3.3 out of 5 stars The Schwinn Men's Wayfarer Hybrid features a retro style frame and swept back handlebars. This hybrid model is a nice upright option for the casual road biker. PRICE - $The Schwinn Wayfarer can be purchased for around $200.EASE OF USEThe Wayfarer is great for cruising on cement and quite easy to use. We only gave it four stars because the bike is a bit on the big and bulky side due mostly to the retro frame. If you are okay with riding a bulky bike, it won't be a problem. ASSEMBLY TIMEThe bike does not come fully assembled but takes only 30-40 minutes with the right tools. The handlebars, front wheel and saddle all require assembly. The reflectors, front fender and pedals also need to be assembled if purchased online. DESIGN QUALITYSchwinn in a well-known and reputable bike manufacturer. The Wayfarer model comes equipped with full fenders for use in any type of weather. It also features a 7 speed derailer and alloy brakes. The bikes does not feel heavy despite the steel frame. The aesthetics of the bike are one of its best features. The brakes are squeaky and the bike does require some adjustments before riding for the first time. Some of the parts are surprisingly lacking in quality, but this bike is a great entry-level option.WARRANTYWe gave the warranty on the Murtisol a 2 star rating because Amazon did not provide any information and the manufacturer does not give out warranty information unless you buy. PROS The bike has a stylish vintage frame and is comfortable to rideEasy to assembleWell-known bike manufacturer/brand CONS The Schwinn bike is more expensive than other brands, though still not too costly compared to the Fairdale bikesThe design quality leaves a lot to be desiredAlthough easy to assemble, it does require some assembly CONCLUSION Fairdale bikes are simply easy to use. We gave this product a 4 star rating because the bikes can be expensive compared to other road, mountain and hybrid bikes. The bikes are designed to be fun commuter products and are not meant for racing or rugged terrain. There are many options to choose from, though the color and size selection is somewhat limited. We enjoyed hopping on the Express and riding with relative ease. Overall, Fairdale bikes offer a quality-made magical modern riding experience. They are excellent for touring and have wonderful carrying capacity compared to similar brands.