In the market for a sporty, relatively lightweight commuter with decent components that won’t break the bank? The Reid Urban X range of commuter bikes is undoubtedly worth considering then! In this article, we’ll give you a rundown of what to expect for your money, including, component specification, colour options and the type of rider each bike in the range is targetted.
- Related Reading:: Urban vs Flat Bar vs Hybrid Bikes Explained
Arguably the most popular range in the Reid product line-up, the Urban X fleet of bikes are designed for quick urban commutes. With a stable and comfortable geometry, a considered build kit ensures all bikes in the range are agile, efficient rolling and comfortable regardless of how long your commute is.
The entire range makes use of hydroformed aluminium frames and forks, with partially smoothed over welds. Somewhat of a testament to the quality of the bikes, Reid offers a lifetime warranty on the frame, two years warranty on the parts and 12 months worth of servicing with every Urban X bike sold.
Provisions for pannier racks and mudguards also feature, with Reid providing “Commuter Edition” variants of each model with these fitted for an additional cost (AU$60). Every model in the range, bar the X3 features a square-taper bottom bracket, with the range-topping X3 featuring a threaded bottom bracket as standard. Additionally, most bikes across the range ship with 35c tyres as standard, however, there’s ample space on all models for wider tyres to be fitted.
Urban X0
Sturdy, lightweight and ready for urban riding, the entry-level Urban X0 (RRP AU$459) presents as a reliable and straightforward package. Outfitted with alloy v-brakes, quality double wall aluminium wheels and a Shimano Tourney 21-speed drive train operated via the company’s simple yet effective Revoshift grip shifter. After spending a little time riding around the inner-urban surrounds of our South Melbourne office, its clear that this is one bike that should prove to be a great all-rounder for those on a budget.
Weight: 10.9kg (Large)
Price: AU$449
Urban X1
Available in both Unisex, and WSD (Women’s Specific Design) frame styles, the Urban X1 builds on the strengths of the X0, adding increased gear range, and stopping power. Shifting duties are once again handled by Shimano in the form of its Altus 8-speed groupset, while mechanical Tektro paired with 160mm rotors front and rear handle the stopping duties. Looking to rolling stock and the X1 is the only bike in the range to score Kenda Kwest 28c rubber, better suited to fast-commuting tasks than the beefier tyres found elsewhere in the range.
Weight: TBA
Price: AU$499
Urban X2
Much like the X1 detailed above, the Reid Urban X2 is available in both WSD and Unisex frame shapes. Shifting out back gains an additional cog, with a Shimano Altus drivetrain fitted to all X2 models, while the disc brake system moves from mechanical to hydraulic. Hydraulic disc brakes are favoured as a result of the increased power and modulation offered as well as the relatively maintenance free design.
Also sitting under the X2 umbrella is the Urban X2.5. The 2.5 scores an uprated Shimano Alivio 27-speed drivetrain, more powerful M315 hydraulic disc brakes in addition to an optional Reid mudguard set front and rear.
Weight: 12.5kg (WSD M)
Price: X2 – $AU599, X2.5 – AU$649
Urban X3
Sitting atop the Urban X hierarchy, in a [recent review], we applauded the X3 for its excellent value-for-money build quality, component specification and ride quality. It is outfitted with a Shimano Deore 30-speed drivetrain, powerful Shimano M396 hydraulic disc brakes and a quality Alexrims wheelset, sealed bearing hubs. So if you’re in the market for a robust, durable and sporty commuter bike, and can spare the extra cash, you’ll be hard pressed to find a better recreational commuter for the money than what’s on offer here.
Weight: 11.9kg (Large)
Price: AU$749
Thanks to Reid Cycles Australia for providing the product for this article. In the market for a new commuter? Check out the full range of hybrid, flat bar, and urban bikes for sale right here, at BikeExchange.
