Many people who travel in the city are looking for an inexpensive and reliable bike. Russian-made Stels models just meet these requirements. For smooth city roads, the Stels Navigator 350 bike is considered the best. It belongs to budget vehicles, is universal, although it has some drawbacks. But its reliability and convenience make this bike quite popular.
general characteristics
The Stels Navigator 350 is the easiest, but most comfortable and most reliable bike. Due to its high frame, it is more suitable for an adult. And the bike itself is not small. It is used for trips around the city or in the countryside on smooth roads. This model combines large wheels, good transport qualities and reliability. It withstands heavy loads, as it is made of durable material.
The bike uses front sprocket protection for the convenience of the driver (grease does not fly on it, the trouser leg does not catch, and the leg does not suffer in accidents). Also in the bike there is a rear trunk with a strong clip, and a capacious 5 kg basket is installed in front. This helps to easily transport even bulky cargo. In order not to stain clothes, installed metal wings that cover the wheels. It is very convenient during rain and when there is dirt on the road.
The most reliable brakes on the bike are V-type triggers. They easily cope with any speed and stop both wheels. Therefore, the bike brakes quickly, but is safe for the driver and the vehicle itself. Also convenient is the seat itself. It has an anatomical shape and two springs, softening all the bumps in the road. Additionally, it is reinforced with a steel pin, which increases its strength.
Specifications
There is a 20-inch steel frame on the bike. There are other steel parts: bushings, steering column and even the trunk. This makes it reliable and durable, but increases its weight. The Stels Navigator 350 bike weighs almost 18 kg, so it is best suited for an adult male with a height of 170-185 cm. But the large weight provides high speed, although because of this it is not so maneuverable.
To change gears, there is a frog Shimano Tourney RD-TY22 at the back, front sprockets without shifting (one is installed). The presence of seven speeds helps to drive on a flat road, as well as overcome ascents or descents, slow down and accelerate. This provides an even distribution of the load on the legs.
The disadvantage of this bike is that it does not have additional shock absorbers, which makes it very rigid. Therefore, in the presence of any irregularities on the road, the driver will feel everything with his hands. But only one saves from the back, that 2 springs are installed in the seat. This softens the ride and makes the ride comfortable.
The steering wheel is curved and adjustable only up and down. Its handles have embossed lining made of soft rubber, on which even a wet hand does not slip. The brakes on the bike are set the simplest, pleasure. They are tubular, braking on the wheel rim. The brakes are conveniently located on the steering wheel, you can also brake and pedals. The wheels on this bike are 28 inches in diameter. Thanks to this, you can keep high speed on a flat road.
Stels Navigator 350 Lady
This bike is designed for women. The Stels Navigator 350 Lady model is almost no different from its predecessor. Only one main detail - the frame. It is slightly smaller and located differently, so that it is more convenient for a woman to sit down.
The frames in this bike are of two types: 18 inches and 20 inches. The choice of its size depends on the growth. Low women up to 175 cm should choose a low frame, and with growth above 175 cm, the second option is suitable. This will make it more convenient to ride a bicycle, as well as ride it.
In addition, the rear derailleur has changed, it costs Shimano SL-M310. All other technical elements of this bike are the same as in the Stels Navigator 350.
There are not too many reviews for this bike. There are both positive and negative. Many women note its low price, the convenience of the trunk. Everyone also likes the frame, which is very suitable for ladies, because you do not have to lift your leg. And negative reviews suggest that marriage is sometimes found. Bearings in which there is a lot of grease suffer most of all, chambers on wheels are also poor-quality. And not all women like high weight.
Stels Navigator 350 Gent
This more modern model is not much different from the rest of the bikes in this line. His appearance is the same, but he differs a little in his weight. This bike frame began to be made of lighter metal, because of this, its weight became lighter per kilogram. In addition, the rear derailleur is installed in it the same as the Stels Navigator 350 Lady, namely the Shimano SL-M310.
Reviews on this bike are also different. Everyone is happy with the price and easy movement, reliability and convenience, but the quality of the parts is frustrating. Particularly you need to pay attention to the wheels, because the "eights" may get caught, what the bearings are to blame for.
Advantages and disadvantages
The pros and cons of the Stels bikes of all models are immediately visible. Therefore, they have their fans who choose only these models. But there are also those who, having once tried the Stels Navigator 350, no longer want to sit on it.
These bicycles have such positive qualities:
- powerful rear trunk with two mounts;
- capacious basket;
- low cost;
- comfortable soft seat;
- an easy move, in which the legs practically do not get tired.
But Stels models also have flaws that often spoil the impression of them:
- there is an “eight” on both wheels, as the bearings are very greased and loose;
- low quality parts;
- brakes may not work in rainy weather;
- some note slippery seating.
Reviews
There are a lot of positive reviews about the Stels Navigator 350 bike. All of them talk about a beautiful powerful rear trunk, note the presence of a spacious comfortable basket in front. Also, many noticed that with a long ride, the legs almost never get tired. This helps the rear gearshift and easy cycle cycle. When riding on a flat road, it is enough to pedal a couple of times, and he will ride for a long time. Another plus is the low price (from 10,000 rubles), which everyone is happy with.
In general, the Stels Navigator 350 line of bicycles is of high quality. Many of them fell in love because of the low price and practicality. Manufacturers did everything to make these bikes not only affordable, but also reliable. They look stylish and modern. Therefore, any trip will bring pleasure.