Thursday, March 21, 2013

Huffy Men's Cardinal Deluxe Bike (Red Metallic, Large/26-Inch)

Huffy Mens Cardinal Deluxe Bike (Red Metallic, Large/26-Inch)
My expectations were not that high for this product. At about half the cost of a similar bike from a reputable bike shop I assumed the quality would be much lower.

The bike arrived in the factory huffy box which is about 10" x 30" x 50". The box is large but not as big as I expected. The bike comes mostly assembled but be careful when removing it from the box as they pack it such that just grabbing parts out may bend a few of the wheel spokes.

The instructions could really use more pictures but I ended up not even using them. For the most part it is obvious how to put the bike together. The pedals have little L and R stickers to denote which side the attach to. Be careful as the thread direction is different on each (standard on bicycles). Before installing the front basket I recommend giving the bike a test ride to ensure you like the handlebar location as the basket blocks the handlebar adjustment screw.

All together the first bike took me about an hour or so to assemble and the second one about 30 minutes. For tools you really needs some nut drivers or wrenches and a Phillips head screwdriver. You will also need a few allen / hex keys. The bolt sizes are metric so standard tools don't work as well.

Once assembled I inflated the tires and went for a ride. I was surprised at the ride of the bike for the price. It is a very good value. It does not feel as solid as a more expensive bike but for the money it is a good purchase. The quality seems high enough that I expect it to last for years. The frame is solid steel. My only complaint is the seat feels a bit flimsy and plasticy but it is still soft and comfortable.

The bike is single speed and geared pretty high so I only recommend this bike for riding in flat areas. If there are slight hills you'll find yourself standing up to pedal.

On one of the bikes I had a tire rubbing the fender making an annoying noise. To fix this I closely inspected the tire as it rotated and saw where it was rubbing. Pulling on the fender to bend it just slightly I was able to create the few millimeter clearance necessary to eliminate the noise.

The other issue was the chain had been set a hair too tight by the factory resulting in a loud clicking noise every time the rear hub cycled. To remedy this I loosened the rear wheel hub bolts moved the wheel forward just a hair to achieve 1/2" chain deflection as directed in the instruction manual. I then re-tightened the bolts and the bike is pretty much silent.

For the cost I think this bike is hard to beat.

Product Description

Huffy No.26742 26 Inch Men's Cardinal Red Metallic Deluxe Bike

Huffy Mens Cardinal Deluxe Bike (Red Metallic, Large/26-Inch)


Features

  • Features classic steel cruiser frame with adjustable rear rack and coaster brakes.
  • 40mm alloy painted rims with 12-guage spokes and 26" x 2.125" whitewall tires.
  • Cruiser has fenders and padded embroidered spring comfort seat.
  • Includes front basket, beverage holder
  • Dual density grips and pedals.

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