Stern bicycles: pros, cons and characteristics of the models

Stern bicycles appeared on the Russian market not so long ago, but they have already caused a lot of questions from connoisseurs of budget bikes. What is the manufacturing country that produces products under this brand? Is it true that this is the own brand of the Sportmaster chain and can you trust a company with a short history?

In fact, folding and ordinary, women's and men's bicycles "Stern" ("Stern") managed to conquer the Russian market due to the decent quality and availability of products. Travel 20, Multi and other models are successfully sold throughout the country and receive positive feedback from owners.

Stern bicycles have replaced the recently popular Nordway on the Sportmaster store shelves. The country of manufacture of bikes is not at all Russia, as one might think, but China (sometimes Austria is indicated, since the company of the same name produces power tools).

The assembly and fine-tuning of models, their equipping with attachments is carried out in the Russian Federation, service centers are also located here. The Stern brand manufactures bicycles designed for riders, they do not have impressive technical characteristics and are quite attractive for their price segment.

Considering the advantages of Stern bicycles, the following points can be noted.

• The use of modern technologies in the manufacture of frames. The company uses butting, hydroforming, variable cross-section of the profile to facilitate the structure without losing its strength.
• Availability of models with suspension fork blocking. This allows you to make it rigid when driving on a flat road or when climbing.
• The use of different types of braking systems. Depending on the purpose of the model, disc hydraulic or mechanical options are used. In children's rooms - foot brakes.
• Sophisticated design geometry. Each model provides optimal control based on the goals and objectives that it solves. There are even carbon monococks - an unusual solution for a budget brand.
• Good shock absorption. Mountain bikes have forks to cushion the impact. Rigid rigs are used in road models.
• The presence of folding bicycles in the model range. Today, not all firms are ready to create bikes with transforming frames for compact storage and transportation.
• Interesting characteristic design, recognizable at first sight.

Among the disadvantages of Stern bicycles can be distinguished insufficiently high strength of individual components, massive steel frames. Certain components - rims, pedals, grips and saddles - are recommended by experienced riders to be replaced immediately with higher quality compatible components. In addition, the company has existed for less than 10 years (since 2010), and many problems are associated with common mistakes in the launch of new models.

Bicycles can be found in the product lines of the Stern brand for women and men, teenagers and children. But the main division into types still occurs according to the purpose of the bikes. There are 2 main product categories here.

All mountain bikes are divided into full-suspension and hardtails. MTBs performed by the Stern brand are focused on skiing on moderately rough terrain, cycling, moving on descents and ascents of varying degrees of steepness. These bikes are characterized by the following features:

• 1 or 2 shock absorbers, depending on the version;
• frame with increased structural strength;
• double rims for increased rigidity;
• deep, well-cut tread;
• obligatory transmission for 18-30 gears;
• wheel diameter from 26 to 29 ″.

Mountain hardtails have a front suspension forks, the rear of the structure retains its rigidity. They are lighter, but less controllable off-road. Two-suspension models have an additional rear shock absorber, which reduces the intensity of loads arising from frame vibration.

The most extensive Stern bike class with folding and classic models, as well as bicycles with lightweight frames... The urban versions usually have the widest range of equipment, they have everything you need for a comfortable everyday ride - from fenders and mudguards to the trunk, lantern, seat bag, chain guard, basket.

Characteristic features of city bikes.

• Solid frame construction, ensuring the durability of the bike in use. Manufactured from steel or aluminum alloys.
• Rigid rigid fork, providing sufficient comfort when driving on hard surfaces.
• Lack of gear shifting or a small number of them. Singlespeeds are increasingly chosen by connoisseurs of simple skiing without setting speed records.
• Significant rim diameter - 28-29 ″ - is considered the norm, smaller sizes are found mainly on teenage or folding bicycles.
• The rubber of the universal type is quite smooth, without a pronounced tread pattern.

The variety of Stern bicycles concerns mainly the type of frame design - one piece or foldable. In addition, there is a division into models for adolescents, children, adult men and women. All of them have their own typical characteristics and are focused on meeting the needs of different categories of users.

The presented model range of Stern bicycles includes a fairly wide range of options with a transforming frame. The following models are distinguished by the folding design.

• Travel 20 ″... The model is presented in a single speed version and in a multi-speed version (Travel 20 Multi) with 6 switching positions. The bike is equipped with a Hi-Ten steel frame, suitable for teenagers and adult riders. The fork is rigid, rigid, without shock absorbers, rim brakes, wheels with single aluminum rims, there is a chain guard included.

• Compact 20 ″... The model is available in one-speed (1.0) version with a Hi-Ten Steel frame and in a multi-speed version (2.0) with a lightweight aluminum base. The product has an adjustable ergonomic saddle, good basic equipment, ergonomic grips.

• Compact 24 ″. Model with large diameter wheels for folding bicycles. It has an original design, plastic fenders included, compact folded dimensions. The lightweight aluminum frame is responsible for the minimum weight, switching between 7 speeds makes it possible to choose the optimal driving mode.

Adult bicycles in the Stern model range are equipped with a gearshift transmission - there must be at least 21 in mountain bikes and from 1 in city bikes. In addition, there is a division into female and male models with different types of frames, the wheel sizes are the largest among all the options.

Urban female models Stern bicycles are presented in 2 versions: Urban 1.0 Lady 28 ″ and Urban 2.0 Lady 28 ″. It is a stylish hardtail with a spring-elastomer fork, mechanical rim or disc brakes, and double reinforced rims. Both versions provide comfortable riding in city conditions and allow you to develop good speed on the road.

Women's mountain models are featured in the Stern range with the following popular options.

• Vega 2.0 26 ″. An advanced option for riders with little experience. Equipped with lowered Hi-Ten steel top tube, spring-elastomer suspension fork.

• Mira 1.0 26 ″... Entry level mountain bike with mechanical disc brakes, comfortable shifting thanks to Shimano drivetrain. The frame is aluminum, with an original tube shape with an optimized geometry. The model is made in hardtail format.

• Electra 2.0 27.5 ″. Flagship model with a recognizable striking design, original geometry of the frame made of lightweight aluminum alloy. Disc brakes, hydraulic, spring fork with a hydraulic damper and a stroke of 100 mm, there is a blocking and adjustment of its stiffness. Aluminum pedals, the model is adapted to a load of up to 110 kg.

In the urban bike category models with a wheel diameter of 28 ″ are presented. Stern Urban 1.0 with an adjustable stem and an aluminum frame is made in hard tail format, with a spring-elastomer front suspension fork with a travel of 45 mm. The 18-speed Prowheel transmission provides ease of riding, double wheel rims, V-brakes.

City men's bike Stern Urban 2.0 equipped with an aluminum frame with a Bi-Axial Tubing section. The kit includes mechanical disc brakes, an ergonomic saddle optimized for rigidity, a shock-absorbing fork.

Men's mountain models are represented by such popular versions.

• Stern Energy 2.0 FS 26″. Compact and bright full suspension for the most active riders. Includes aluminum frame, spring-elastomer fork with 80 mm travel, 21-speed transmission. The model is designed to overcome the most extreme tracks, has a high cross-country ability.

• Stern Motion 29″. "Niner" with a lockable front fork of the spring-hydraulic type.The hardtail is equipped with an aluminum light frame, plastic pedals, disc brakes. The handlebars and saddle are adjustable, with a comfortable fit. The frame has an original geometry for the best overcoming of the most difficult obstacles.

• Stern Dynamic 2.0 26 ″. Budget men's model of the mountain hardtail. It features a simple but reliable design, due to the steel frame, the model is quite heavy. The spring-loaded elastomer fork has 60mm travel and a 21-speed Shimano drivetrain that runs smoothly and smoothly.

Stern bicycles for teenagers use rim brakes, transmission with gear shifting is provided - from 6 to 8 positions. The fork in these bikes is shock-absorbing, softening road irregularities while moving. Wheel diameter starts at 18 inches.

Among the popular models of Stern teenage bicycles are the following.

• Attack 24 ″. The flagship of the teenage line is designed for the age category of 8-12 years. The model is made in the format of a mountain hardtail (there is a double suspension with the Attack 24 FS mark), equipped with a shock-absorbing fork with a travel of 40 mm, a 21-speed transmission from the world famous Shimano brand. The model has a footrest that allows you to provide temporary parking with comfort, a steel frame and V-brakes.

• Attack 20 ″. A smaller copy of the flagship, a fairly budgetary model, suitable as the first bike for a schoolchildren. The bright design will delight boys from 6 to 9 years old, the transmission is designed for 7 speeds, the saddle is conveniently adjustable in height.

• Leeloo 20 ″... A striking model for girls aged 6-9 years, according to the characteristics corresponds to the Attack 20 ″ model. Version Street equipped with a lightweight aluminum frame instead of a steel one.

Stern children's bicycles are equipped with additional training wheels, with which the child can ride the entire period of learning to ride. The braking system here is foot, as simple and comfortable as possible, the size of the frame and the height of the saddle take into account the anatomical features of the child's physique. There is no gear shifting, the fork is rigid, without shock absorbers.

Among the popular models are Fantasy - a series for girls with a wheel diameter of 12 ", 16", 20 ". In the lower models, additional training elements are provided to ensure sustainability. Ergonomic frame made of Hi-Ten steel. The design includes a saddle with an anatomical shape, fenders for the front and rear wheels. The brake system is caliper, there is a built-in chain protection, a footrest.

Stern Rocket 16 (there are versions with a wheel diameter of 12 ", 20") is one of the most popular models of children's bicycles for boys. You can choose an option for any height and age, from toddler to teenager. The affordable price also serves as an additional element to grab the attention of consumers. The steel frame guarantees a solid structure for any riding intensity. Rocket 12 can be chosen for the smallest children from 3 years old.

Among the children's models, the Stern Vicky 14 bike also stands out with the maximum complete set and in an unusual design.... The bike is designed for young cyclists from 95 to 120 cm in height and is made in pink and turquoise colors. The complete set includes side wheels, a stylish trunk for dolls, original grips with decorative bows and a basket on the steering wheel.

What should you consider when choosing a bike for the rider's height? The easiest option is to "try on" right in the store. Standing on his feet and resting his back on the saddle, an adult should have a free space of 10 cm from groin to frame. If you choose a mountain bike with an order remotely, it is better to use more accurate data. It is necessary to measure the length of the leg from the groin to the floor along the inner side of the thigh and multiply the result by a factor of 0.57 (for urban and road models - by 0.66).

If the frame size is in inches, the value in centimeters is divided by 2.54. For children with a height of 130-145 cm (preschoolers and younger students) there are standard sizes. This age category corresponds to models with 13 "or 33 cm frames. For teenagers up to 155 cm tall, bicycles with a 14" base are suitable. For a size of 145-160 cm, you need a 15 ″ frame.

The main criteria for choosing a Stern bike depend on who exactly will ride the bike. For example, for children and adolescents the following are important:

• the presence of training wheels in the kit (for younger children and beginners);
• rim diameter - 12-24 ″, taking into account the height of the child;
• frame height;
• the presence of reflectors and other hinged safety elements.

When choosing a comfortable city bike, you should also pay attention to certain points. The number of gears does not really matter here: there can be from 1 to 7. But the protection of the chain and fenders with mudguards must be mandatory - these are the components that allow you to keep your clothes clean when driving in wet weather.

The type of frame also matters - a woman's frame allows you to comfortably get on and off the bike even in a skirt. Besides, it is worth paying attention to the brakes - hand or foot, the presence of additional components.

When choosing a Stern mountain bike, you need to make sure that it will have the following advantages:

• front hydraulic shock absorber;
• rear suspension (not all bikes are full suspension);
• transmission with the number of speeds not less than 21;
• wheels, at least 2 inches wide, with a clear and deep tread pattern;
• lightweight yet durable frame.

The selection of spare parts and accessories for Stern bicycles, thanks to the widespread network of service centers, is not difficult. Initially, the service life is stated by the manufacturer for 5 years. But the attachment only has a 2 year warranty. But for the frame, this period has been increased to 10 years. The most intensively worn units and elements are not subject to free repair or exchange: bearings, brake pads, grips, tires and tubes.

Most often, on the initiative of riders, saddles and grips are changed - not everyone thinks their shape is quite ergonomic. In addition, in budget models, even a slight collision with a curb can provoke deformation of the rims. This problem is relevant for teenage and urban models. In versions with a double rim, this does not happen, but they are not 100% insured against damage, although they receive them much less often.

When comparing Stern bicycles with other options of similar price and quality, it is difficult to tell right away which best suits the customers' perception of a quality product. Most often, the products of this company are compared with Stels, Forward, Stark, Stinger - other budget bike brands.... At first glance, they are indeed practically identical. The assortment of these brands mainly includes budget-level bicycles that are not designed for intense loads.

Stern bikes are produced in China, some of the assembly and pre-sale operations have been moved to Russia. Stels, Forward, Stark - domestic firms ordering frames in China and Taiwan. Stinger assembles Velobalt at its plant in Kaliningrad, but the Taiwanese brand, the firm copies well-known models, without developing its own design options.

As for Stern, it belongs to the Sportmaster chain of stores and is distributed mainly through it. But here's what is important: under this brand bikes are produced that have a good body kit and frames copied from large manufacturers. They do not provide a sufficient level of riding comfort.

Stels and Stinger have similar problems.In general, we can say that there is simply no difference in class between the models of the price range up to 15,000 rubles, respectively, Stern turns out to be no worse than its more well-known counterparts.

Buyers' opinion on the quality and reliability of Stern bikes looks quite positive. According to the owners, the brand's products stand out from the competitors not only by the budget price. The level of product manufacturing allows you to use the bike for its intended purpose, without experiencing difficulties with its operation. Of course, the level of quality of materials here is significantly lower than that of bicycles produced by top firms. Experienced riders recommend changing the rims right away - single versions do not withstand serious loads, and driving on wheels with "eights" is simply unsafe for health.

Among the shortcomings, there is also an insufficiently durable paintwork, a rather massive frame structure (especially if it is made of steel), and not very reliable brakes. Otherwise, Stern bikes are well worth the money that the manufacturer offers to pay for them.

Stern bicycles are products for confident amateurs and beginners in riding. You should not expect high speeds or record endurance from them. But this is a good solution for when you need to get the first positive experience of skiing or explore the surroundings. For example, you can get a bike with a carbon frame for reasonable money and test it in action. For this, buyers choose Stern products for themselves and their loved ones.

The following video will tell you whether it is worth buying a Stern bike.