Schwinn GTX Comfort hybrid bike is one of the entry-level hybrid bikes made by the prominent company “Schwinn.” Initially founded in 1895, Schwinn has manufactured and marketed bicycles across the U.S. The Schwinn “GTX” model is crafted to meet standard requirements for beginner hybrid bikes, which both novice and professional cyclists can enjoy riding. Let’s look at our coverage of Schwinn GTX hybrid bike review.
The “GTX” model is best known for delivering a superb riding experience to all cyclists. Practically, this bike is suitable for riding as a commuter bike or a racing bike. The Schwinn GTX Comfort hybrid bike has well-designed components. With this price range, the bike is regarded as one of the budget-friendly bikes on the market. The GTX model is available in many variants: GTX 1.0, 2.0, and 3.0 depending on the frame size it offers.
>>>If you want to learn more about our review of hybrid bikes, check the review of best hybrid bikes for beginners
Schwinn GTX Comfort hybrid bike: Features and Specifications
The GTX model features various impressive components such as an aluminum alloy frame, a Shimano drivetrain set, a mechanical disc brake system, and an alloy wheelset. The Schwinn GTX bike provides a customizable Seatpost so that the cyclist will be able to ride smoothly with more comfort to offer more options and flexibility. It is also equipped with a superb front suspension fork to make your journey comfortable, even cruising through any bumpy areas.
A robust aluminum alloy frame structure
The core structure of the Schwinn GTX hybrid bike is a robust aluminum alloy frame offering both lightweight and durability. Schwinn opts to employ a step-through design for its frame, which allows many accessories to be mounted on the bike. Besides, the top tube is placed on a downward slope toward the seat tube, which is similar to the mountain bike’s construction. The frame weighs approximately 34 lbs. and is available in various sizes. The Schwinn GTX 1.0 and 2.0 offer 16- and 18-inch frame sizes, respectively.
A front suspension fork to facilitate a smoother ride
Unlike standard mountain bikes, most hybrid bikes on the market only come with a front suspension fork installed as it is destined to be used on both flat surface roads and rough terrains. The front suspension fork does an exceptional job of helping to eliminate many bumps while cruising on dirt trails. Thus, the Schwinn GTX bike is regarded as one of the best budget all-purpose bicycles on the market.
Superb 21-and 24-speed Shimano drivetrain sets
Like other entry-level hybrid bikes, the Schwinn GTX is equipped with a 21-or 24-speed Shimano drivetrain set to facilitate a smooth power transmission. According to our test ride, the factory-setting Micro-shift 21-or 24-speed twist shifter works fine as we shift the lever to either higher or lower gear. The Shimano rear derailleur also works in a perfect combination with the SRAM trigger to seamlessly transfer the pedaling power down to the wheels. With proper maintenance, you don’t need a replacement until it gets worn out after a thousand miles of the ride.
A mechanical disc brakes system
The mechanical disc brake system is probably the most attractive feature of the Schwinn GTX hybrid bike. The bike does offer you a mechanical disc brake system with an affordable price range, while other bike brands in the same price range might only come with ordinary rim brakes such as a caliper brake or V-brake system. With an advanced disc brake system, your bike will deliver a higher stopping power than the typical rim brake. However, using a disc brake system does require a learning curve, for those who ride a bicycle with disc brakes for the first time, it is advisable to take a few practices before hitting the road.
Durable 700c alloy rims and versatile tires
The Schwinn GTX features durable 700c alloy rims and a quick release system on both front and rear wheels. The rims themselves are built with high-profile aluminum alloy with 36 spokes to ensure an unbeatable performance on any terrain. Generally, this hybrid bike is built to be cruised on a long journey trip; thus, 700c alloy rims are durable enough to tackle any road type on your journey.
Furthermore, Schwinn GTX comes with versatile tires that are designed to be agile on your ride either in the city or on a long distance.
Lifetime warranty
You may be familiar with Schwinn’s warranty quote, “Lifetime Warranty as Long as You Own the Bike.” It is probably an unbeatable guarantee phase from Schwinn, which attracts more and more clients to their products. Don’t forget to fill out the warranty form and send it to Schwinn to claim your lifetime warranty.
Schwinn GTX Hybrid Bike: Technical Aspects
- Aluminum dual sport frame
- Schwinn front suspension fork
- 21-or 24-speed Shimano drivetrain set
- The mechanical disc brake system on the front and rear wheels
- 700c high profile alloy rims and versatile tires
- Adjustable Seatpost and saddle
Pros
Suitable to ride on all types of terrain
Being able to ride anywhere is the main advantage of the hybrid bike over road bike and mountain bike, as it is more versatile to use in various situations. If you are a novice cyclist and haven’t decided about your riding style, starting your first riding experience with a hybrid bike is not a bad idea. Once you have realized which style of riding you will pursue, then you may switch your preference to a particular type of bicycle later.
The lightweight aluminum alloy structure provides durability
Not surprisingly, the most significant advantage of the aluminum frame is its durability, but it is also very light in weight compared to its steel counterpart. Thanks to the popularity of alloy materials being used in the industry, many manufacturers can achieve economies of scale by breeding aluminum frames at a little cost. Today a sturdy aluminum frame is available at a relatively lower price than steel. Also, with a step-through design, you will be able to mount various accessories such as a water bottle rack, and GPS to the bike frame.
Impressive mechanical disc brake system
Schwinn opts to install dual mechanical disc brakes on both front and rear wheels, unlike other bike brands in the same price range. The dual disc brakes have done exceptionally well to combine forces with a micro-shift 21-or 24-speed twist shifter to deliver powerful stopping force to put the bike to a complete stop within a few seconds. Moreover, disc brakes last longer than rim brakes since they only deal with the hub rotor, not the entire wheel rim.
A lifetime warranty
Schwinn does put a lifetime warranty on all bicycles purchased as long as the buyer still owns the bike first-hand. From our point of view, Schwinn’s bold and smart move is to gain the customer’s trust. Most other bike brands offer a limited warranty for a specific period, but Schwinn does offer something different. For a customer, you don’t need to worry about a broken brake pad, snapping gear chain, or even a cracked frame, all you need to do is to claim your loss with Schwinn directly.
Easy to assemble
With explicit instruction, it probably takes less than an hour for an inexperienced cyclist to assemble this hybrid bike. The bike does require a few tools for assembly, such as a set of Allen wrenches and a small hand pump to inflate tires. Our recommended psi for both tires is above 70 for optimum comfort.
Cons
Low-grade material for pedals
We are not satisfied with pedals made from low-grade plastic resin as it always rattles click sound during the ride. We have to admit that it is not very pleasant. The replacement of better-quality pedals and cranksets may be necessary if you are serious about cycling.
Uncomfortable saddle
This issue is probably one of the worst points of this bike. The saddle is hard and uncomfortable to ride for a long time. Please consider a replacement.
The final verdict
The Schwinn GTX hybrid bike is an excellent choice for cyclists of any gender. If you are female with a height below 5.5″, consider buying the Schwinn GTX 1.0. The 1.0 version comes with a 16″ bike frame, which is suitable for a small cyclist while relatively taller riders may find the Schwinn GTX 2.0 more practical for them. Alternatively, they may look for the Schwinn Network 3.0 hybrid bike review, which is specially crafted for cyclists with heights above 5.6″. The bike performs well on both flat surface roads and rough trails. With a mechanical disc brake system, you can ensure that your safety is well taken care of. Finally, a budget-friendly price will surely not break your bank account.
What is the weight limit for this bike. Please help