Schwinn Frontier FS review

Schwinn is a household name in the US and its cruiser bikes were the basis for the very first mountain bikes. The Americano cruiser vibe is still evident in its relaxed Frontier FS, too.

Our rating

4.0

Published: May 31, 2006 at 11:00 pm

Our review
Friendly and comfy cruiser, but too short for speedwork.

Schwinn is a household name in the US and its cruiser bikes were the basis for the very first mountain bikes. The Americano cruiser vibe is still evident in its relaxed Frontier FS, too.

Steady Neddy

With a saddle to stem reach that's almost two inches shorter than the otherwise similarly sized GT and Carrera, the Schwinn is far more upright. This immediately makes it more of a gentle dawdler than a speedster. The forward weight positioning, limited ground clearance and fast steering might also feel slightly precarious to beginners.

Keep it steady though, and you'll be looking at the view or chatting to mates in easy, relaxed comfort, thanks to the fat saddle and smooth overall ride. The fork actually absorbs some trail lumps without kicking back or clunking badly either, and the centre ridge tyres and comparatively low weight make it an easy roller on less testing terrain.

Comfy Ride

There are mudguard and rack mounts, plus quick release wheels, seat post clamp and a women's version of the bike, too. The big fat saddle adds short ride comfort, although the flabby flanks are vulnerable to crash or scuff damage. The soft brakes and centre ridge tyres also need care in wet or rooty conditions.

The Frontier is another surprisingly comfortable and smooth rolling ride, especially considering it's the lowest priced bike here. Unfortunately, the short, forward weight position makes it a definite dawdler and cruiser, rather than anything more energetic or rapid.

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