Rockrider Expl 900 review: This affordable bike from the outdoor brand is a good choice for kids who tend to prefer the higher-end models in the 9-12 age group. However, even for them, the suspension fork is too stiff.
- Favorable price.
- Solid completion
- Frame geometry is more suitable for taller riders
Rockrider Expl 900: Affordable hardtail with solid components
The French leisure giant Decathlon has long been a major player in the bicycle business, offering its bikes under various brand names. Rockrider represents mountain bikes ranging from carbon full-suspension models costing €9.000 to affordable children's bikes like the Expl 900. What do you get for €400?
- Travel 50 mm
- Impeller size 24 "
- Circuit 9-speed, cassette 11/36 / 32 teeth front
- frame material Aluminium
- Weight 11,9 kg
- Wheel weight 4,6 kg
- Features Frame shape more suitable for taller riders, fork not sensitive enough.
- www.decathlon.de
- Price (RRP) EUR 399,99
Private label marketing with a suitable translation range
In terms of components, the Rockrider offers modern standards: The drivetrain with a 32-tooth chainring up front is adequately spaced with an 11-36 nine-speed cassette; the manufacturer relies on its own components bearing the B'Twin logo. At 152 mm, the crank arms are rather long for a bike of this size. The hydraulic disc brakes, equipped with 160 mm rotors, generate strong stopping power.
A suspension fork is also fitted to the bike – a Suntour XCT, boasting 50 mm of travel. At least in theory: with high breakaway torque and a firm setup, our test rider could barely get the fork to compress. Once again, it becomes clear that a rigid fork can be the better choice. At least the Rockrider is affordable enough that one could consider retrofitting an air suspension fork, although the selection isn't extensive.
More suitable for older kids
The manufacturer specifies a height range of 135 to 150 cm or an age range of nine to twelve years. However, the frame design seems better suited to the taller children in this group: at 345 mm, the seat tube is a good 4 cm longer than that of other models; the top tube runs straight up to the head tube, where other brands incorporate a bend to reduce standover height. Smaller children might have problems with the Rockrider in this regard.
At the upper end of the size range, the hardtail impresses with solid performance; however, at just under twelve kilograms, it's not exactly lightweight. Incidentally, fitting the lightest wheelset from the Velomotion test field would save a full 1,8 kilograms.
Not quite what you're looking for? We've tested a lot of other sporty kids' bikes. You can find an overview here: We tested these 24-inch children's bikes.
