Java One 650B (2018): ChooseMyBicycle.com Expert Review

The Java One 650B has been made using an alloy frame which is lightweight and durable. The welding on the frame is smooth at the edges denoting good quality work. The geometry of the frame enables a comfortable upright riding position, while keeping performance in mind. The frame houses a mounting option for a single bottle holder. Additionally, it has mounting options for mudguards in the front and rear, and a pannier rack.

This bicycle comes equipped with a front suspension fork with hydraulic lockout. The suspension fork worked well to absorb vibrations felt from rugged, bumpy terrains. The bicycle has a relatively narrow head tube, thereby decreasing the load bearing capacity of the fork. Additionally, the stem is on the longer side which hinders quick handling, thereby restricting its usage to mild trails that require less precision with tricky maneuvering. This bicycle is sure to perform well on uneven, rugged city roads and on basic-mild trails requiring less technical riding.

The Java One 650B has been designed tastefully. The bicycle we test rode came in a primary colour of black with green and grey decals and branding. The branding was kept simple and neat, thus adding to the overall aesthetic appeal of the bicycle. This bicycle is available in two colour options – Black/Green and Titanium.

The Java One 650B is a 21-Speed bicycle that is equipped with Shimano Tourney front and rear derailleurs. This is the only area I feel could do with slight improvement, in terms of componentry at the given price point, a Shimano Tourney-Altus gearing combination would have been ideal. That being said, the derailleurs worked smooth, enabling efficient shifting with no evident lag. The Shifters are well placed and functioned crisply, enabling quick and responsive transmission.

The Java One 650B comes equipped with Disc brakes at the front and rear. The brakes worked efficiently, ensuring powerful braking while staying stable. Both interval braking and abrupt braking felt stable and safe. The Brake Levers were placed well within reach, requiring only two or three fingers to operate. The brake levers required only a light pull to ensure effective braking. These brakes are sure to work effectively on both wet and dry surfaces.

The handlebar on the Java One 650B ensures a comfortable ‘open-chested’ riding position. The width of the handlebar enables enhanced stability on rugged flat trails and rough surfaces. The handlebar grips were fairly cushioned and worked well to ensure minimal transfer of vibrations from the handlebar to the hand and arms while riding.

The Java One 650B comes equipped with 27.5” tires. The tires are well treaded, providing additional stability and grip when on uneven surfaces. When tested on a smooth surface, the tires were fast rolling with enough traction to provide stability in wet riding conditions and on turns. The biggest advantage with the 27.5” wheels is the ease of handling the bicycle on both on-road and off-road riding conditions. Additionally, the wheels have a Quick Release option, which makes it much easier to remove the wheels in a jiffy.

The stock saddle that comes on this bicycle was remarkable. When on the test ride, we found the saddle to be extremely comfortable, without any unnecessary bulk. The seat post has a Quick Release for the saddle, which is beneficial to adjust the saddle height while on the go. The overall ride quality of this bicycle was satisfactory.