Polygon is an International bicycle manufacturer originating from Indonesia. Polygon has been around for little more than 25 years and has constantly grown with newer tech and designs in their bicycles with value for money price tags. The Cascade series of MTB’s are entry to mid-level with performance packed specs. We got the opportunity to test ride the Cascade 3 (2019) and here is what we thought.
The Polygon Cascade 3 (2019) which I test rode came in a full alloy frame with a comfortable geometry. The XC inspired frame made the ride comfortable on flat trails, as it was able to withstand vibrations of the surface. As in last year’s model, the frame has extra ground clearance, thus making it possible for the cycle to roll over rocky terrain easily without damaging the bottom part of the frame.
As a hardtail MTB, this bicycle comes with a Suntour XCM front suspension forks with 100mm of travel and a pre-load adjuster. During the test ride this fork was smooth in functioning.
The Cascade 3 (2019) which I test rode came in a dual shade of Black and Grey matte finish frame with Blue and Yellow secondary colours. The blue and yellow colour codes were used on the bicycle in various places including the rims, saddle and fork. The vertical line design pattern is followed in a few places on the frame which looks new and refreshing.
This hardtail MTB comes with Shimano Tourney at the front and rear as derailleurs. These are entry-level MTB components and are enough for flat trails and urban commutes. Some basic tuning might be required from time to time to keep the gears shifting smoothly. The 21-Speed Shimano ST-EF41 trigger shifters were in easy reach from the handlebars.
The braking on the Polygon Cascade 3 (2019) is taken care of by Tektro MD-M280 Mechanical Disc brakes at both the front and rear. These brakes felt balanced and are useful especially when you are riding in wet weather conditions and need reliable braking performance when stopping during fast paced trail rides.
The 680mm handlebar was wide enough for a comfortable riding posture as well a slight raise from the middle to keep the rider little upright while riding.
The Trax 27.5" x 2.1” MTB tires on the Cascade 3 were treaded heavily and were uniform in pattern as well. The treads on these tires are massive for 27.5” standards, making it generate a lot of traction on wet trails and fast turns.
The stock foam saddle from Polygon was ergonomic in design with the perfect width to keep those sit bones in place on the widest parts perfectly.
Overall Rating
This MTB has comfortable ride geometry and a wide handlebar for optimum control on fast and slippery trails. Even though the Tourney derailleurs are entry-level, the shifting performance was smooth. The 27.5” tires were heavily treaded and fast rolling as well. Priced at Rs.21,990(as on 28th December 2018) the Polygon Cascade 3 (2019) is an ideal bicycle for anyone looking to buy an MTB for flat to moderate trails and occasional commuting as well.
Prices are subject to change by the brand, without due notice.