Schwinn Super Sport (2018) - Review

The Schwinn Super Sport has been made using a Schwinn N Litened 3 Alloy frame which is lightweight and agile. Traditionally, alloy frames contribute to a lowered overall weight of the bicycle. The frame has an ergonomic geometry, allowing for an upright riding position that ensures performance and comfort. The frame has mounting options for two water bottle holders. This bicycle is available in three sizing options - 15.7”, 17.7” and 18.9”. Traditionally, with the international sizing it corresponds to Extra Small, Small and Medium. However, in the Indian Sizing Charts, this corresponds to Small, Medium and Large. This is worth a mention so as to not get confused about the sizing when buying a bicycle that is marked ‘M’ but seems bigger than what one is used to riding.This bicycle comes equipped with a straight blade rigid steel fork. Traditionally, steel adds to the durability and stability of a bicycle/component. However, a small disadvantage to this would be a slight increase in the overall weight of the bicycle.

The Schwinn Super Sport is a 21-Speed bicycle that is equipped with a complete Shimano Tourney Drivetrain. This comes as a surprise, given the price point of the bicycle and that these components are expected on entry-level bicycles. At it's given price tag, one would expect at least a Shimano Altus drivetrain. However, that being said, the existing derailleurs worked smoothly, with no hint of delays or lags when on the test ride. The gear transmission was crisp, leaving no room for complaints in terms of performance The shifters are well placed and extremely responsive.

The Schwinn Super Sport (2018) is available in a single colour combination featuring an equal split between black and grey. While this is not a bicycle that will stand out in terms of design, the quality of the paint job appeared to be of satisfactory quality. I feel the colours used on the bicycle could have been different, to make it more aesthetically pleasing.

The Schwinn Super Sport comes equipped with Mechanical Disc Brakes. The brakes worked efficiently, ensuring powerful braking while staying stable. Both Interval braking and abrupt braking felt secure and solid. 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 work effectively on both wet and dry surfaces. The bicycle comes equipped with a Schwinn Sport Steel handlebar. The width of the handlebar enables a comfortable ‘open-chested’ riding position as well as superior control and maneuverability of the bicycle in traffic and crowded riding conditions. 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. A steel handlebar though, could add to the weight of the bicycle.

The Schwinn Super Sport comes equipped with fast rolling 7x35C hybrid tires. These tires were lightly treaded, ensuring great grip while turning at sharp corners. Additionally, they ensure added stability and control in wet riding conditions and on uneven terrain. The wheels come with a Quick Release Option at the front and back. The Schwinn S2 Sport Ergo saddle that comes on this bicycle is well designed to comfortably accommodate one's sit bones. However, I feel that the saddle was on the harder side, especially when on longer distance rides. A point worth mentioning is the design of the Quick Release that has a curvature to fit perfectly onto the seat tube while being locked.