KHS bicycles: model characteristics
A bicycle can be of great benefit in the household, at work, and even just for a walk. However, to make it enjoyable, you need to carefully understand the specifics of specific devices. And one should start, for example, with familiarization with the rather popular KHS brand.
Peculiarities
The manufacturing country for KHS bicycles was originally the United States. The company began development and production of bikes back in 1974. But unlike other firms, she did not impose her vision on consumers, but first asked the question of what a good bike should be. Along with the achievement of decent practical properties, the task was initially set to reduce the cost of finished products as much as possible.
The unconditional priority for this manufacturer is the production of mountain bikes.
Advantages and disadvantages
An undoubted positive feature is the wide range of goods. Bikes can be found under the KHS brand:
- road;
- urban;
- folding;
- intended for tracks.
The quality of the finished product is confirmed by the fact that it is supplied to 33 countries. And the American consumers themselves are also discerning and would hardly buy a frankly low-quality product. Reviews indicate that KHS bikes:
- differ in rather high speeds;
- easy to manage;
- drive without any problems.
The disadvantages of bicycles are:
- sometimes they have insufficiently reliable single rims;
- can be equipped with an unreasonably wide and therefore not very comfortable steering wheel;
- need to adjust the brakes.
Types and models
There are a lot of offered models.
- KHS Flite Team... This racing-type development is ideal for those who would like to conquer high speeds.The bike was equipped with fairly sturdy tires from the famous Maxxis brand. The designers have provided for the use of mechanical type rim brakes. The carbon frame matches the overall high-tech look of the product. The seat is also made in accordance with the canons of sporty design.
Optimal power transmission from the pedal to the chainring is guaranteed and the energy consumption of the cyclist is saved. The drivetrain runs smoothly and smoothly thanks to Shimano's proprietary derailleur. The same Japanese manufacturer supplies cranks, cassette, derailleurs, chain, rims and even brakes for this model. An important characteristic is the presence of 22 speeds. The dimensions of the wheels are 28 inches.
Therefore, overcoming even rather serious barriers will not cause significant difficulties.
- Alite 150 mountain bike manifests itself no worse. But you need to understand that this is an entry-level bike. It was created using hydraulic disc brakes. The designers made sure that the Japanese cranks withstand a significant load and work normally during active riding. The saddle is made in a sporty style.
The 1.95-inch wide ribbed tires perform very well. The Shimano rear derailleur maximizes the rider's ability to play. The rest of the equipment on the bike is standard. Wheel dimensions are 26 inches. Seatpost dimensions 3.16x35 cm.
- For walks, you can use the Westwood bike. A black bike is suitable for driving on city streets or on light off-road. The aluminum frame is light enough to use the bike freely. Thanks to it, as well as careful adjustment of the height and tilt of the steering wheel, you can ensure a good roll. Increased speed performance is maintained thanks to large, narrow wheels and a 21-gear drivetrain. Getting on and off the curb is not a problem because the carefully thought-out forks are used. You can only ride a Westwood bike with an upright fit. The frame is made of aluminum and the brakes are V-Brakes.
- In the children's segment, the KHS T-Rex deserves attention. This bike is equipped with rim brakes that quickly stop spinning on 24 ”wheels. The frame is made in the style of a hardtail and is made of steel. In this case, the steering wheel is made of aluminum billets 0.56 m wide. The steering wheel stem is made on the basis of an aluminum alloy and has no threads.
The T-Rex has 21 travel speeds and a stop while driving is achieved using the Promax brakes. Both bushings are made of steel alloys and secured with a nut. The shifters come from Shimano factories. They also make shifters for this model.
- Another children's model is Syntaur. This bike also has 24-inch wheels and rim brakes. In this case, the frame, unlike the T-Rex, is made of aluminum. Rims are made from it. A curious feature is the use of a sealed cartridge for the carriage. It is worth considering that the frame is made of 6061 alloy, and the fork is rigid.
- If you need a women's bike, then you can pay attention to Westwood ladies. In the production of its frame, an aluminum alloy of increased strength is used. The design of the frame is such that it is not difficult to sit and ride even in long loose clothing. Women can travel at 21 different speeds. Excellent balance provided. An attractive feature of the model is its retro design.
The bike rides on 28-inch wheels with excellent rolling properties. Therefore, you can use it safely in places with different terrain. The seat is carefully designed anatomically. Rim brakes provide almost complete safety for riders. Of course, if they know how to use a bicycle and do not make mistakes in handling it.
Please note that no rear shock absorber is provided.The fork travel is 0.05 m.
- Another women's model in the brand line is KHS Ultra sport 2.0 ladies. This bike is equipped with mechanical type disc brakes. They allow you to reliably stop the spinning of 28-inch wheels. The steering wheel, made of aluminum, reaches 0.66 m in width. Its rise can be 0.025 m. The frame is also formed from aluminum. The stem is made of an aluminum alloy, made according to the 4-bolt scheme. Its length reaches 0.0318 m when installed at an angle of 7 °.
The rotor diameters of the front and rear brakes are 0.16 m. The brake levers and derailleurs are manufactured at the Shimano factories. The carriage is made in the form of cartridge bearings. The rims have double walls, 700x32 holes are formed in them. Aluminum alloy bushings, just like the seat post.
- Raptor - is also a very perfect model. This is a teen bike introduced in 2016. The rims are quite durable and covered with embossed tires. The seat is comfortable and beautiful. The aluminum frame is robust and therefore stable. The switches support a comfortable speed change. The high stiffness forks are fairly lightweight and resist crushing under high loads. The designers made sure that the transfer of mechanical forces was as efficient as possible. The bike is designed for an audience from 9 to 12 years old. Shimano shifters are brilliant.
- For a 16-inch model, the KHS 2010 Girl 16 is worth a look. Its main characteristics are as follows: aluminum frame, rigid fork, pedal-type foot brakes. Bicycles are designed for children from 3 to 5 years old, additional wheels are provided.
Criterias of choice
Since the KHS company produces many different models, it is important to understand how to choose a bike, what requirements should be presented. First of all, you need to outline the cost bar above which the user is not ready to pay. The designs, which start at $ 250, are suitable for 18-24 months of riding on paved areas with occasional rides on the ground.
But if you use them as carefully and accurately as possible, you can significantly extend the service life.
Paying 400-700 conventional units or the equivalent amount, you can count on the purchase of long-term equipment. It will allow you to do some pretty serious stunts or drive long journeys 60-100 km per day. But besides the price, the task that the bicycle is designed to solve is also important. For beginners, it makes no sense to buy a high-end bike designed for dizzying stunts. And it's not even about the high price, but about the fitness of such models strictly for the pros. Additionally, it is worth considering:
- frame and wheel dimensions;
- tread pattern;
- the severity of the structure;
- complete set of the bike;
- number of speeds;
- features of brakes, steering wheel and seat.
Operating tips
No matter how good a bike you buy, mistakes in use will negate its benefits. It is extremely important: you should immediately find out what maneuvers the bike is capable of, what angle of steep climb it will overcome. There is no need to try to surpass these indicators. If the bike collides with an obstacle, you need to help it maneuver, and not rely on the strength of the structure.
After a long trip, especially over rough terrain, it is imperative to check the tire pressure and the brakes. A general vehicle inspection is carried out at the beginning and end of each season. The seat must be selected individually. To make the chain wear less, you need:
- lubricate it regularly;
- exclude unjustified loads;
- correct strong distortions;
- clean out dirt, especially sand.
Noticing that the chain has begun to slip, the star is changed or machined. In low and high gears, in order to avoid unnecessary distortions of the chain and wear of the cassette, it is necessary to drive as rarely as possible with extreme positions of speeds.Soldering with tin and coating with a dense grease helps to avoid loosening of the rope. Before starting to use the bike, you must immediately individually adjust the bike for yourself. When cornering, it is better to deviate in the right direction, rather than sit straight.
On soft ground, low pressure tires are required. If the pressure is high, you need a wide tire. On slippery surfaces and smooth stones, only soft tires should be used. Dirt is best overcome with one-tier protectors. On dry sand, you should ride on a round slick.
Important: you need to wash your bike regularly. At least 5 minutes should be spent on this procedure after driving in wet weather or in dirty places. This implies:
- cleaning tires and frames;
- water-displacing spray treatment;
- covering the chain with grease.
For an overview of the KHS Alite 500 bike, see the video below.