Did you know that Retrospec Bikes was formerly known as Critical Cycles? Don’t worry, it wasn’t because their bicycles made rides critical! Retrospec, a US-based cycling manufacturing company has been around since 2009. They are chic and not too expensive!
But are they worth buying? Well, buddy, that’s what you and I are going to be investigating today!
Retrospec Bikes: Pros and Cons
First things first, let’s look at the pros and cons before we get into any details:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Unique Design | Not Practical Enough |
| Durability Is Unmatched | Stock Problems |
| Comfort Is Key | Uncomfortable Features/Components |
| Affordable Price Tags |
Retrospec Bikes- A Deep Analysis
What makes retrospect bikes stand out? After very detailed research, this is what I found out:
1. They Have An Affordable Price Point
Retrospec Bikes are affordable. I mean you can get a good-quality bike from them for under $600. Normally, the bikes from Retrospec are priced between $350-$600. What’s best is that they don’t compromise on the quality!
Some high-end bike models will cost you thousands of dollars but they are also worth the price. I have been using the Koa Rev+ 26” Electric Fat Tire Bike and I do enjoy my rides.
2. There Is A Customization Option
Almost all the bikes from Retrospec have customizable options. Some bikes offer two different frame types, while some bikes offer different mounting options for racks. In the Electric Bikes category, the batteries can be changed according to the needs of the users.
For example, you can upgrade the battery and tires along with other customization options.
3. They Follow Eco-Friendly Practices
All the bikes from Retrospec are made from recyclable materials! The environment has almost zero strain since the materials can be recycled.
4. A 50-Day Return Policy!
Retrospec Bikes have a return policy of 50 days. Yes, I said return, not exchange! If you do not like the bike within 50 days of purchase, you can return the bike and get fully refunded. Wait! There’s a catch.
The bike needs to be in good shape or else you won’t be refunded! But I think that’s fair. Do you? Also, make sure that you have the original packaging of the bike, it won’t be accepted without it.
5. The Bikes Come With Warranty
The frame and the fork of the bike have an actual warranty of 1 year accordingly while the components have a warranty of 60 days. As the components go through a strict quality control procedure, Retrospec advises you NOT to replace them.
Customer Reviews and Feedback
Here are some verified customer reviews so you can get an idea of the brand:
| Reviewer | Review | Bike Purchased |
|---|---|---|
| Kelly K. | Beautiful, simple, lightweight, easy to use, and will use it for years to come! We love this scooter! | The Chipmunk Kid’s Scooter |
| Amy S. | So fun and worth every penny! The bike had some damage on arrival, but customer service was wonderful! | The Chatham Rev Electric Beach Cruiser |
| Mariana B. | Truly enjoying my bicycle and having a great time with my daughter. Also, the sale prices were great! | The Ascent 26” Mountain Bike – Step Through 21 Speed |
| Seward | The highlight is its awesome look. However, build quality and performance are average. Assembling was super challenging. | The Retrospec Beaumont 7-Speed Men’s Urban City Bike |
| Brett | Missing the handlebar stem bolt/stem quill needed to attach the handlebar to the bike frame. Disappointed. | The Harper Fixie |
Note: The mentioned reviews are just for informational purposes.
Top Retrospec Bikes Top Model
There are a lot of amazing bikes from Retrospec and you will be amazed to see their lineup. Before we get started with the best bikes from Retrospec. These are all the types of bikes that they are currently offering.
Types Of Bikes
Although Retrospec Bikes started from fixie bikes, they have evolved since then and stretched out their catalog of amazing bikes. These are the categories of bikes they are offering:
- Balance Bikes
- Folding Bikes
- Beach Cruisers
- Fitness Bikes
- City Bikes
- Hybrid Bikes
- Fixed Gear Bikes
- Single-Speed Bikes
- Kids Bikes
With these amazing bikes, there are also plenty of accessories being offered too. You can also enjoy amazing customer service post-purchase. Now that we have mentioned all the bike categories from Retrospec, here are our top picks!
1. Retrospec Mantra – Editor’s Choice
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Gear System | Fixed and Single-Speed |
| Hub System | Both single and fixed gear systems |
| Wheel Bolt System | Makes tire theft extremely difficult |
| Frame Material | Strong lightweight steel |
| Stars V-Rims | Provides a strong and premium look |
| Design | Strong and aerodynamic |
If you are a fan of fixie bikes but also want something new then give this bike a try!
2. Retrospec Harper
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Frame | Hand-built, resilient construction |
| Tires | Kenda 700 x 28C Kwest Tires |
| Chain | KMC Chain |
| Assembly | Easy assembly process |
| Pedals | VP Freestyle Pedals |
| Smooth Ride | Silky smooth even on bumpy roads |
| Premium Look | High-quality components with a premium appearance |
The Harper has a hefty weight limit of 220 lbs, you can fill up the bike and it would still perform exceptionally.
3. Retrospec Mars Hybrid
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Frame | Diamond frame with vintage design |
| Speed Options | Three-speed options for versatile riding |
| Accessory Options | Great accessory options, including front light and rear rack |
| Tires | Kenda Commuter Tires |
| Comfort | Very comfortable ride |
| Weight | Slightly heavy but offers great value |
| Value | Great value at its price point |
The Mars Hybrid comes in different designs and colors. The bike uses caliper brakes for absolute stopping power.
4. Retrospec Mantra V2
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Gear Options | Choose between a single-speed hub to a seven-speed setting |
| Brakes | Caliper Brakes for amazing stopping power |
| Speed | Seven-Speed Version available |
| Pedals | Light and Flat Pedals |
| Performance | Exceptional performance in all gear settings |
| Upgrade | Huge upgrade over the original Mantra |
You would just have to spend a bit extra, but the value is so much here that you shouldn’t let it go!
5. Retrospec Venus Dutch Step-Thru
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Design | Super Comfortable Design for total comfort |
| Speed Options | Seven-Speed Versions available |
| Riding Position | Relaxing Position with upward handlebars |
| Wheels | Comes With Hybrid Wheels for versatile use |
| Commute Focus | Designed for shorter and comfier commutes |
It is perfect for park rides and neighborhood patrols. Expect a carefree ride with the Retrospec Venus Dutch!
6. Retrospec Cub Kids Bicycle
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Frame | Durable Steel Frame, low-framed for easy balancing |
| Maintenance | Easy To Maintain |
| Handlebars | Adjustable Handlebars for growing kids |
| Price Tag | Affordable Price Tag for budget-friendly options |
| Design | Balance bike design, no pedals for easy learning |
If you are worried about assembly then don’t worry, the bike comes 80% assembled. For kids aged up to 5 years, this is an amazing bike to have!
7. Retrospec Barron Step-Thru Comfort Hybrid
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Gear System | Shimano 21-Speed Gear System |
| Tires | Kenda Kwest Tires |
| Price Tag | Amazing Price Tag for great value |
| Performance | Exemplary performance for various uses |
| Design | Sleek and sexy design for long-lasting enjoyment |
| Sizes | Available in four different sizes for every rider |
One of the best things I like about this bike is the inclusion of the aluminum riser 35mm bar, this makes sure that the bike is always in your control and you have an upright position.
8. Retrospec Beaumont 7-Speed City Bike
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Frame | Durable and lightweight frame, designed for women |
| Tires | All-season tires for versatile riding |
| Gear System | Shimano 7-Speed gear set for various speed options |
| Comfort | Comfortable ride, feels like riding on a cloud |
| Handling | Easy handling with a rigid and comfortable shape |
| Design | Specifically designed for women’s comfort and style |
With slimmer tires, you’ll get satisfying performance.
Retrospec Bike Size Chart
Retrospec Bikes are mainly known for their single-speed/fixie bikes. Here is the bike size chart for a detailed guide.
| Height | Inseam Length | Frame Size |
| 5’1’’-5’3’’ | 27’’-29’’ | 48 cm |
| 5’3’’-5’5’’ | 28’’-30’’ | 50 cm |
| 5’5’’-5’7’’ | 29’’-31’’ | 52 cm |
| 5’7’’-5’9’’ | 30’’-32’’ | 54 cm |
| 5’9’’-5’11’’ | 31’’-33’’ | 56 cm |
| 5’11’’-6’2’’ | 32’’-34’’ | 58 cm |
| 6’1’’-6’5’’ | 33’’-35’’ | 60 cm |
The bike size chart is going to help you find the best bike for yourself! I do recommend that you consider your inseam length as it is the most important factor when deciding the size of your bike.
What You Need To Know Before Buying A Retrospec Bike
Retrospec bikes are all great what do you need to consider before actually going for them? Just consider these aspects and you would be good to go!
| Aspect | Consideration |
|---|---|
| Comfort | Consider your comfort while riding. Look for features like a comfortable seat and handlebars for an enjoyable ride. |
| Purpose | Determine the purpose of getting a bike. Whether it’s for fun or professional use, Retrospec offers options for urban and daily commute bikes. |
| Planned Activities | Consider your planned activities with the bike. Are you using it for hobbies, commuting, or leisure? Tailor your choice accordingly. |
| Surrounding Landscape | Evaluate the landscape of your surroundings. Retrospec bikes are not suitable for hilly regions due to their construction. Choose accordingly based on your living area. |
Only get these bikes if you don’t live in hilly areas as the lack of gears would make traversal very difficult!
My Analysis Of Retrospec Bikes
This here is a million-dollar question, should you go for Retrospec Bikes? What can you expect from them? I found that Retrospec Bikes keeps bringing innovation. They do have something for every kind of rider!
They are also offering multi-speed bikes. The speeds start from 3 and then go on to 21. There are not just adult bikes but also kids’ bikes. Retrospec bikes also favor accessibility. This means that you can customize your bike to the heart’s content! What I like is that things are simple and fun with Retrospec Bikes.
Check Also
- Creme Molly Review
- Bike Size Chart
- Mountain Bike Size Chart
- 15 Best Bikes For Heavy Riders (Updated 2023)
- Best Hybrid Bikes For Women: Find Top Brands Reviewed And Ranked
FAQs
Question: Are Retrospec Bikes Good?
Retrospec Bikes are very good, they have good controls and are also very easy to use. You can expect to find amazing kid’s bikes to adult bikes. Would I recommend them? Definitely!
Question: Are Retrospec Bikes Cheap?
Keeping the rising inflation in mind, the bikes from Retrospec are still considered cheap. You can get a good quality bike in the $350-$550 range. Yes, they also have high-end bikes that will cost more than $1000, the quality of those bikes is still unmatched!
Question: Where Are Retrospec Bikes Made?
To keep the quality and the vision of the company as authentic as possible, all production is done in California, USA.
Recap
Drumroll! Here’s the verdict. Overall, keeping in mind all the aspects of a bike, I will give Retrospec a 7/10. But if you are looking for something professional, my rating for Retrospec will be 5.5/10. Their bikes are good for casual riding.
But do try them out yourself to see if you like their bikes or not! How would you rate their bikes? Let me know in the comments!