Stark bicycles: range and tips for choosing
In the summer, many ordinary people begin to think about purchasing for themselves such a popular mode of transport as a bicycle. This economical means of transportation is becoming extremely fashionable today among people of various age groups. Cycling every day is extremely beneficial for your health and helps to avoid long downtime in traffic jams, which will obviously be appreciated by those people who are not used to wasting their precious time.
About the brand
Stark Bikes is one of the largest Russian firms, whose specialists are actively involved in the development, production and sale of inexpensive, but at the same time sufficiently high-quality bicycles. ranging from stylish mountain models and their various extreme types, ending with female and teenage models and children's vehicles.
Stark bicycles owe their popularity to the affordable cost that the average Russian can afford. Nowadays, Stark attracts more and more consumers, as it produces models for any, even the most demanding taste. The country of manufacture of bicycles is most often Taiwan, but the design itself is the final result of the joint activities of Russian engineers and experienced German specialists.
Stark manufactures high-tech bike models using:
- hydroforming - it is the shaping of the tubes through the use of pressurized fluid;
- press forming - forming pipes from aluminum without losing their durability;
- double butting - this technology assumes the presence of different pipe wall thicknesses in order to obtain more strength with the least weight;
- FSS frame, which implies the shock absorption of the wheel that is located behind;
- disc brakes with advanced hydraulic drive system - here, braking will be carried out by a fluid along a special hydraulic line;
- cone-shaped steering wheel - the most durable and rigid fork design;
- Large steering glass - it is the most durable pipe connection with a large number of welds.
Advantages and disadvantages
Cycling products from the Stark brand differ from products from other famous manufacturers in a large number of positive aspects, several of which are worth mentioning separately.
- Huge selection of models... Here you can easily find good bikes of different classes that will cover the needs of consumers of all ages.
- Low price - devices of this eminent brand combine an excellent ratio of quality and value.
- Using modern attachments - Stark bicycles are equipped with components from many well-known world brands.
There are practically no significant drawbacks to the bike models of this manufacturer, except for the "simplified" body kit, which makes the cost of these bikes so affordable.
Popular models
The Stark company produces mainly budget bicycles of the so-called "first level", which means almost all popular categories: in the company's catalog you can find mountain and extreme models, city and road bikes, folding structures, bicycles for teenagers, children and women.
It should be noted that from the name of the model you can quickly find out certain of its parameters, for example, V - means "rim brakes", D - "mechanics" brakes, HD - "hydraulic brakes".
Mountain models are presented by the brand on a very large scale - they were created for active driving both on domestic roads with excellent coverage, and where it is rather difficult to drive. Usually, bicycles of this kind have certain design characteristics - a solid frame in the shape of a trapezoid, a thickened type of tire with high-quality tread, greater ground clearance, front and rear suspension (not for all modifications), and more.
Stark slash
This mountain bike for extreme amateurs is perfect for leisurely riding on normal roads. It will differ from other models:
- solid frame;
- non-integrated steering column;
- spring-elastomer fork;
- 26-inch wheel sizes (which have dual-type aluminum rims);
- there is also a transmission with 21 gears;
- the presence of rim brakes or brakes with "mechanics".
It is worth mentioning that almost 99% of Stark bike models are mountain bikes that do not have rear suspension, due to which they outperform full-suspension models with their reduced weight. They are much easier to control, but the grip parameters when riding on mountainous terrain, the Stark models will be lower.
Stark indy
Great mountain bike for amateur cyclists.
Suitable for those who are just starting to master the bike.
The model is suitable for measured movement along the most flat city bike paths, and along neat forest paths. This design has:
- sturdy aluminum frame;
- elastomeric suspension with spring Easing with the possibility of blocking and the option of adjusting different loads;
- half-integrated steering unit;
- there is also a 21-speed mechanism;
- rim V-like or disc brakes with hydraulics.
Stark indy lady
This is a 2016 mountain bike design that targets women and has a chain drive type. Frame material - aluminum alloy. It is in great demand among women of any age.
Stark outpost
An amateur version for adults, which was successfully conceived for the most relaxed ride on bike paths and well-equipped park alleys.
Perfect for out-of-town walks with friends without extreme elements.
Is different:
- durable and comfortable frame;
- has a spring-elastomer suspension type Easing at the front;
- non-integrated steering type;
- there are 26-inch wheels and their double rims;
- availability of the 21st speed;
- rim or disc brakes with mechanics.
Stark Tactic
Mountain model "first level".
Perfect for fast off-road driving, useful during active training and racing among amateurs.
This model offers:
- sturdy aluminum frame;
- Elastomeric spring or oil-spring SR Suntour suspension at the front, the rigidity can be locked or pre-adjusted;
- half-integrated steering unit;
- has a 24- or 27-speed system with a body kit from Shimano;
- 26-, 27.5- or 29-inch wheels with double rims;
- rim type or disc brakes.
The most advanced models of this bike boast a double butted frame and a 10 cm travel fork.
You will learn more about this model by watching the following video.
Stark router
The first level model is perfect for inexperienced athletes.
Created for riding in the city, parks within the city and in the countryside, it is also purchased for daily training.
The model contains:
- sturdy frame;
- fork of spring-elastomer or spring-oil type;
- half-integrated steering wheel;
- 21-speed movement with elements from Shiman;
- wheels in sizes 26, 27.5 or 29 inches;
- brakes of different types: either rim or disc brakes with a cable or hydraulic system.
Stark shooter
Quite an extreme model, perfect for cyclists who like to ride fast. The design boasts:
- frame made of the lightest alloys;
- suspension with shock absorption RST;
- half-integrated steering column;
- mechanism with 7 or 21 speeds;
- wheels 26-inch with double rims.
Stark luna
This bike is completely female-oriented. Perfect for a quiet ride in the city, as well as outside the city. This model can also be used for training. She has:
- frame made of durable aluminum;
- spring fork with 60mm travel;
- conventional steering column;
- 18- or 21-speed system (front derailleur - DNP, rear - Shimano);
- 26-inch wheels with double rims;
- V-brakes are rim type.
Stark cobra
This is one of the most popular folding bicycles that has been designed for the true cycling enthusiast. It was created for a relaxed ride on flat city roads and not the most difficult rough terrain. This model has:
- fast folding frame;
- spring-elastomeric fork (Easing or Zoom with a stroke of 6-8 cm);
- half-integrated steering column;
- 21- or 24-speed system, complemented by Shimano-type attachments;
- wheels of 26, 27.5 or 29 inches, as well as double-look rims;
- disc brakes - with cable or hydraulics, with 16 cm rotors.
Stark tanuki run
This balance bike was created for children from 1.5 to 3 years old for cycling under the supervision of adults. A sturdy frame, steel fork and 12-inch single-rim wheels make the model very attractive to potential buyers.
Stark Tanuki Boy / Girl
Children's models are intended for training or for regular walks for children from 1.5 to 8 years old.
These bicycles are designed taking into account the physique and physical characteristics of children of different ages.
The Stark brand produces several interesting children's designs at once (while you should know that bicycles for boys and girls will be different - they differ in color and design).
Female models will also differ in frame design and saddle design. This kind of model will be much easier. Reviews of the fair sex only confirm that there is no other brand that could also give them the same ride comfort. Children's bicycles are much smaller than adult models and are often equipped with a chassis that can be quickly removed at any time suitable for this.
Criterias of choice
Quite often, an inexperienced buyer who wants to buy their very first bike may make the wrong choice. A huge assortment of products from all kinds of manufacturers and a lack of minimal experience in this matter often lead to a purchase that can be disappointing after a while.
When choosing the most suitable model for yourself, it is worth considering:
- for what purpose do you buy a bike for yourself - to ride it to work every day or for Sunday trips with friends on mountain trails;
- in which area you have to ride - where there is a flat road or there is none at all;
- for whom exactly the design is chosen - for a man, woman or child;
- it is worth considering the growth of a potential cyclist when choosing.
To ensure the fit is correct and not cause back pain or fatigue, you need to choose the right frame. This can be done according to the instructions that are attached to each unit of the product.
The taller the cyclist is, the longer and taller he will need a frame as well.
The selected bike needs:
- carefully inspect to make sure there are no various damages;
- recheck for the kit stated in the instructions;
- carefully inspect bicycle wheels and be sure to check how securely they are fastened with nuts;
- check the attachment itself to the saddle structure.
Experts advise against riding the bike you just bought from the bike shop right away. It is best to first wash it from the factory grease and bring certain settings to the ideal according to the existing instructions.
Review overview
Stark bike owners are mostly positive about them. They are quite satisfied with the outwardly pleasant appearance of their "two-wheeled" friend and its technical characteristics.
Professionals additionally note the good roll-forward and maneuverability of most models. Many Stark bikes can handle off-road riding without any problems.
Among the minuses, they note the fact that the color of the vehicle is rather weak, the bike is scratched by any serious mechanical impact on it. Also, many complain that the bike comes from the store completely upset, so you have to completely configure it from scratch.
You can find several negative reviews online, primarily related to the speed modes of bikes - not all owners are satisfied with these characteristics, especially if they previously owned more maneuverable bicycles. However, the price of Stark products is still noted as very attractive and is the primary factor in choosing these models.