Firefox Volante: ChooseMyBicycle.com Expert Review

The Firefox Volante is a performance-focused hybrid and the frame build reflects that. This frame is built using Alloy and is lightweight. The tubes are welded perfectly with smoothly welded edges. The frame geometry is comfortable yet giving that perfect posture to ride fast and for long hours. The Volante does come with a rigid fork but the quality of material and build helps absorb a lot of vibration of the surface and in turn makes the ride smoother.    

This hybrid bicycle which I test rode came in a full blue frame with orange and white graphics. The matte finish paint job is one of the best we’ve seen from Firefox till date. The tube edges were smoothly welded with no marks left behind. The thin fork and stays along with internal cable routing definitely adds to the aesthetics of this bicycle. Overall, the Volante’s design is definitely on par with International brands.

This is a performance-focused hybrid and the gearing department makes that possible with mid-level componentry. The Volante is equipped with Shimano’s Altus at the front and Shimano’s Acera at the rear. The 3x9 speed drivetrain is impressive and gives a wide range of gearing options, which helps in climbs and quick acceleration. The Altus shifters were top notch and smooth to use. The gearing is impressive for this bicycle and definitely scores lot of points for it.

The Volante’s stopping power is taken care off by a unique set of V-brakes. These are not your usual set of V-brakes. The Tektro M730 Quartz brakes with long brake pads helped achieve a balance stopping power on both wet and dry urban roads. These pads were as good as any mechanical disc brakes on hybrids in this price range.

The Zoom alloy 660mm handlebar had just enough raise from the middle to give   an open chested and comfortable riding posture.
    

The Kenda K184 700x35C along with alloy rims had high rolling resistance. With its neat tread pattern, these slick tires helped zip through traffic on city roads. The treads helped pedal through rougher patches in the city with ease.

The stock saddle was ergonomic in design and had the perfect amount of cushioning to keep the rider comfortable on longer rides. The overall ride quality was smooth, fast and comfortable on urban roads.