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Fixie bikes, basic single-speed, have been popular for a while now. They are loved by riders because they are fast, easy to maintain and always look very good. However, since there are fewer moving parts for single-speed bikes than for standard bikes, their costs can be very high. But that doesn’t mean that there are no discount brands that sell city bikes and inexpensive and good-looking fixies. With the urban commuter in mind, Retrospec bikes are planned. With quality parts built, their bikes offer inexpensive solutions. For leisure cyclists, bikes by Retrospec are just as comfortable and cost a bit more than good used bikes.
This guide reviews the best Retrospec bikes to help you determine the correct product to purchase for your commuting or leisure travel, as customers don’t know anything about Retrospec bikes and the features they give.
The Retrospec Mantra Fixie Bicycle
For Retrospec bikes, the Retrospec Mantra Fixie Bicycle is the best overall option. Today, most bikes come with a single definite gearing scheme. This paradigm is shattered by the Retrospec Mantra and signifies a change in the standard. On the Mantra’s rear rotor, Retrospec has mounted an odd hub that features a single gear on one side and a fixed gear on the other.By just turning the wheel over, it is easy for riders to turn between the two. Instead of being connected via a swift process, the wheels for the Mantra are bolted onto the frame.
This improvement in wheel attachments is meant to make it more difficult to steal tires. With this setup, turning the tires around is a little complicated, but it can be accomplished with a wrench on your side. The frame is made completely out of steel for this bike. The steel frame is solid and, along with a pair of loaded side packs, can carry the horse. The robustness of the frame is no excuse for you to believe it is also strong.
The bike weighs less than some other aluminum ones, and for longer commutes, it won’t get in the way. On a far pricier bike, Stars’ double-walled super deep-V rims could comfortably look at home. To support you in traffic, the wheels provide aerodynamic features and fit well with the front brakes. In the Mantra, Retrospec went for big and smooth pedals that are more fit for cyclists than for casual riders.
| Pros | Cons |
| It has a wide range of colors that really pop | Not all colors have both wheels with a braking surface |
| It is very affordable without sacrificing quality | Tires are directional so you need to turn them when switching between fixed and single speed |
| Includes everything (tires, tubes, cogs, etc.) | |
| Sealed bearings = low maintenance |
Retrospec Harper
One of Retrospec’s premium quality bikes is the Retrospec Harper. A luxury hand-built frame, made of durable tensile steel, comes with the Harper. The materials used in the frame’s construction exude consistency and keep consumers pleased. Harper sounds smooth even on bumpy roads and trails, with a strong suspension and solid frame.
You would not experience any bounces or bumps because the frame absorbs all shocks without any difficulty. With the stock deep-V 30mm rims, the Kenda 700 x 28C Kwest tires fly this bike like a horse and go well. It is great to look at the aesthetic. The Harper can comfortably work at less than 220 lbs. of load with its high-level fork, KMC chain, and VP freestyle pedals. Without failing to work or meet the expectations, this bike has a huge load power. The bike has a standing height of 34 inches and can operate easily with individuals reaching 6 feet.
| Pros | Cons |
| It has riser handlebars | Assembling might take some time |
| The bike has few moving parts | |
| It has reliable brakes | |
| It is suitable for wet conditions |
Retrospec Mantra V2
In this list, the Retrospec Mantra V2 is the revised version of the Mantra that we mentioned earlier. The Mantra’s modified edition does not innovate per se but provides a few updates from the original bike. The main change between the Slogan and the Mantra V2 is that the V2 allows you to choose between either a single speed rear hub and a reversible fixed gear or a regular seven-speed rear-wheel setting.
To maintain equilibrium during emergency braking situations, the V2 also offers rear caliper brakes. In order to deliver improved shifting and rear braking, the Mantra V2 builds upon the original Mantra. If you are able to spend the extra cash, the bike can prove to be a good choice. The revised iteration of the Mantra sequence, although with a cost boost, takes a step above the original Mantra. In contrast to industry expectations, the bike has impressive features and is also conveniently priced.
| Pros | Cons |
| Has Real Caliper Brakes | Assembly might be a little complex |
| It is a seven-speed gear | It is a little pricey |
| It has a flatter and lighter pedals |
Retrospec Venus Dutch Step-Thru
Different frame size and style is adopted by the Venus Dutch to some of the other Retrospec bikes. To ensure comfort, the Venus Dutch is built and comes with a low seat post that has been reclined backward. Instead of leaning over, the reclining seat post means that the handlebars face upward and you have to reach upwards towards them. Not many individuals prefer the latter because it is already challenging to ascend hills in a comfortable position.
The frame also makes it possible for cyclists in a standing stance to straddle the bike and this is suitable for traffic stops in busy city commutes. Biking is a perfect way to get around the region, and Venus Dutch offers you all the experience you need to travel. The new place is not designed for hostile encounters and is more suited for city-wide shorter trips. Currently, the Venus Dutch is available in single, three-speed, or seven-speed models.
| Pros | Cons |
| Perfect for short rides | Fenders are not well mounted |
| Narrower flat pedals | Seats do not have springs underneath |
| Has hybrid wheels |
Retrospec Mars Hybrid
Retrospec’s Mars Hybrid does a fine job by combining some of the Mantra’s urban cycling characteristics with a hybrid bicycle’s more conventional features. The cycle is easy to sit on but lacks the lightweight frame of the Mantra’s pace and agility. The Mars Hybrid, even with its flaws, is a steal at its price. The Mars Hybrid is one of the coming-of-age products from Retrospec which offers an amalgam of cross-country bikes and road bikes. With separate gearing schemes, the Mars hybrid comes in three different models.
You do not have a reversible hub here, unlike the mantra. Depending on your tastes and the amount of steep hilliness where you will be riding your cycle, you will purchase Mars in a single-speed, three-speed, or seven-speed version. A kickstand, a rear saddlebag cage, front and rear fenders, a horn, and a lot more are offered for the bike. A cross between mountain bikes and road bikes is the Retrospec Mars Hybrid. The antique style, aesthetic architecture, and respectable gearing device make our best-value choice for the Retrospec Mars Hybrid.
| Pros | Cons |
| Very Comfortable saddle | Hard and uncomfortable seat |
| Reasonable and affordable | The shifter is a bit stiff |
| The relaxed upright riding position |
