If you just want a bike that you’re going to ride as-is for as long as possible, the Switchback Expert could be the right choice. The problem with a fork upgrade, aside from the expense, is that you’ll likely need to get a new front wheel too since the included fork features a 9mm, non-Boost, quick release axle. With the included flat pedals, the Mongoose Switchback Expert weighs 33.9lb (size XL) which isn’t too far off what a more expensive full suspension mountain bike might weigh.
Their products are distributed worldwide, mainly through independent distributors and retailers. BMX Products Inc’s product range includes BMX Bikes, Dirt Jump Bikes, BMX Racing Equipment, and other Bicycle Accessories such as clothing and helmets. However, if you’re like many of my non-bike friends asking for a bike recommendation and want to ride on the road, and maybe off road a little, the Switchback Expert could be a good fit. The drivetrain is generally pretty quiet when pedaling on smooth surfaces, though things start to clang the faster (and rougher!) you ride. If part of your calculation for buying the Mongoose Switchback Expert is that you might upgrade parts over time, I say look at another bike.
These bikes are strong enough for smooth landings on race and pump tracks but will not take the abuse that a freestyle bike would in concrete skateparks. If you’re looking to set fast lap times or begin your competitive career on the track, a race bike is the right choice. A far-superior Mongoose line can be found on the official Mongoose website. These bicycles, which comprise specific models for BMX, mountain and urban biking, are offered with better-made frames and higher-level components. They are also much more expensive than the department-store Mongoose bicycles.
For over 45 years, Mongoose has been in the dirt, at the park, and on the street. Ranging from your first true BMX bike in the L18 to the full 4130 chromoly pro-performance L500, the Legion series was designed to withstand the punishment that takes place as you progress your BMX skills. All our bikes are cherry picked from the very best BMX specialist brands, and all our bikes are designed specifically for use at the skatepark or on the track. Components that are not suitable for your level of riding can wear or fail much sooner than expected.
The main difference between the two is the way the bike performs when going backwards. One of our most frequently asked questions in freestyle is, which rear hub do I want, a freecoaster or a cassette? Most experienced riders mongoose fat bike know their preference, but if you’re new to the sport it can be difficult to know which choice to make. If it’s BMX or multi-speed mountain bikes your kid wants, Mongoose kids bikes are the perfect introduction to cycling.
Mongoose bicycles have at times been criticized for poor reliability and construction, however, many of these issues can be attributed to how and where the bicycles are used by their owners. The Mongoose Switchback Expert is an aluminum hardtail mountain bike with 100mm of suspension travel up front. The hydraulic disc brakes are a more powerful upgrade over the mechanical brakes on the Switchback Comp, though generally speaking they’re not as easy to maintain or repair. Compared to bikes from other major brands like Specialized and Trek, the Mongoose Switchback Expert offers a pretty similar value.
Instead, particularly for their price point, Mongoose’s department-store bikes are built for simple on-road commutes such as to school, work or the store. It offers you a modern equipment, which will allow you to learn your first tricks and fun at the skatepark. Freestyle bikes are designed for the skatepark, the streets or the trails. They are constructed from strong, hard wearing materials and usually feature Steel or Chromoly frames.
O’Brien went on to ride an incredibly strong main event to finish with a silver medal. Payton Ridenour (Pottstown; Penn.; Mongoose Bicycles) won her quarter-final lap, but unfortunately, she finished fifth in semi, just missing out on the main event. In quarters, Lexis Colby (Surprise, Ariz.; Supercross BMX) barely got around a crash in turn one and fought hard for the rest of the lap, but would not transfer to the next round. SmartStart bikes are engineered to outsmart physics so kids in motion stay in motion.
This beast of a bike is equipped with monstrous 4″ wide knobby tires. This is important because, as a rider, you should know which heavy bike you can handle. Heavy bikes have their advantages, such as stability, but they also have disadvantages because it can be difficult to transport them in areas with flat surfaces if you need to move them around.