Vilano Fixed Gear, Fixie Single Speed Road Bike: Review

Vilano is a brand most bike riders are familiar with. This brand provides inexpensive road bikes for entry level riders, those seeking an affordable road bike, as well as novices who have never ridden before.

Vilano offers a variety of sizes and colors to choose from, as well as unisex models that are perfect for men, women, and children of nearly any height.

Brand: Vilano
Type: Fixed Gear, Fixie Single Speed Road Bike
Model: 700-TRACK-WHT-BLK-54
Amazon:

Specs/Size/Design

The comes with a flip flop rear hub so the rider can switch from single speed to fixed gear by simply flipping the rear wheel. This model is popular for commuting as well as casual road biking.

There are 7 different color schemes and 3 sizes to choose from, which means that every rider can find the perfect bike for them.

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Technical Specifications and Features:

Frame: 700c Fixed Gear Tig welded (120mm rear spacing)
Fork: 700c 1 ⅛ inch Threadless, hi-ten steel
Tires: 700 x 23c
Wheels: Double Walled with CNC machined sides
Rear Hub: Flip Flop (Fixed Cog / Freewheel)
Crankset: Alloy with replaceable 46T Chainring
Brakes: Caliper (Front and Rear Drop Bar Version; Rear Riser Bar Version)
Headset: Alloy Threadless
Handlebar: Alloy
Pedals included
Saddle: Urban
Seat Post: Alloy
Stem: Alloy

To view our comprehensive reviews of other Vilano models, click on the articles below:

Vilano FORZA 3.0 Aluminum Carbon Shimano Sora Road Bike: Review

Vilano Aluminum Road Bike 21 Speed Shimano: Review

Vilano Aluminum Road Bike Commuter Bike Shimano 21 Speed 700c: Review

Vilano Performance 700C 21 Speed Shimano Hybrid Flat Bar Commuter Road Bike: Review

Vilano Shadow Road Bike – Shimano STI Integrated Shifters Review

The Good

This bike is built surprisingly solid. For being constructed of aluminum, the bike is surprisingly sturdy and can take some bumps that come with city commuting and riding on the roads.

The overall look of the bike is also very popular and appealing. With a variety of colors to choose from (most of them two-toned), you can choose between a more subdued look or a bright and trendy option.

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This Fixie is also very fast and can coast quite well. The frame is sturdy but light enough to support quick and responsive riding.

Upon arrival, this Fixie is very easy to assemble. It does not come with assembly tools, but it can be assembled in as little as 10 minutes. It is always recommended that you take a bike to a professional for assembly and tuning for the best results.

*See the “Pricing” section for optional assembly purchase*

The Bad

This is an inexpensive, entry level road bike and it is expected to have quality issues with component parts, especially the tires. Vilano tends to use cheaper parts in their bikes of this price range and caliber. This is not an issue with most riders who are simply seeking an entry bike.

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The tires are admittedly pretty terrible. As with most Vilano bikes in this price range, the quality of the tires are somewhat legendary for being poor. However, this is a quick and inexpensive fix that is well worth replacing. You can also stick with the tires for a while and see how they work for you.

Some of the component parts, such as the brakes and chain, will need tweaking and oiling before use.

As a single speed, expect not to have the easiest time on steep inclines. This bike is intended for the typical road.

The pedals are pretty cheap and work as such, so it may be best to purchase a good pair when you order.

As expected, the component parts are so-so. As with the pedals, the tires are not the best. This is a very common problem with Vilano bikes, because being so inexpensive, they tend to include pretty bad tires. It is recommended that you replace the tires before riding.

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Highlights

The highlights of this Vilano model includes the fixed gear, Fixie single speed for commuting, novice riders, and casual road biking. This is a versatile option for riders and is popular among those seeking an affordable and simple road bike.

Functionality

This Fixie Single Speed functions adequately considering the price range and caliber of its parts. For casual road use and those seeking an entry level bike on a budget, this is a good choice.

While there are issues with the quality of some component parts such as the tires and pedals, this bike does function as advertised. With the right tires, you should not encounter too many problems.

While this model does not have the best functionality, even for a bike in this price range, it is a good bike for entry level biking and those who prefer to purchase their own component parts.

Pricing

You can purchase the road bike on Amazon.com ranging from around $169.00 to $314.00, depending on the size and color you choose. Most are two-toned color schemes and are attractive and simple for the everyday rider.

The sizes available are as follows:

50cm (Small)
54cm (Medium)
56cm (Large)

The colors available include: Black/Red, Blue/Black, Blue/Red, Grey/Green,Grey/Orange, White/Black, and Matte Black.

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Amazon also offers an amazing deal for buyers. You can include installation in your purchase for only $75.00 more (optional). This is a highly rated service and what is included is: assembly of your bike by a local professional, guidance on basic tuning and maintenance, and much more. You can also take this opportunity to purchase your pedals and have them installed, as well as have any special parts you want, assembled as well.

Overall Impression

My overall impression of this Vilano bike is similar to other Vilano models: while some of the component parts and tires can be troublesome to some riders, for the price of this Fixie and the entry level caliber, it is to be expected to encounter a few issues with component quality problems.

However, by taking this bike to a professional for a tuneup that is geared towards your specific body, this will help tremendously with riding satisfaction. In addition, it is quite inexpensive to purchase replacement parts that are higher in quality, such as better tires, saddle, and pedals. Nearly every part on this Fixie can be replaced, so should you wish to purchase a bike for a couple hundred dollars rather than a thousand, and replace some parts, this is the perfect bike for you.