It has excellent performance, is spec’d smartly, comes out of the box almost 100% ready for commuting use, and is priced well. We recommend the Level to any commuter or recreationally oriented rider looking for great value, performance, and function in an e-bike. The Aventon Level checks off almost every one of the necessary boxes in what I look for in a purpose-built commuter bike.
Freestyle and/or recreational riders have a wider range of options. Manufacturers like Sunday offer skatepark-specific bikes with wheels from 12 to 22 inches mongoose fat bike and a diversity of frame sizes. The BikeLife crowd prefers 26-inch or 29-inch wheels, although 24-inch and 27.5-inch options are also available.
Exceptionally well-designed, the Vado 4.0 has an SRAM NX, 11-speed drivetrain, powerful SRAM Level brakes, and an SR Suntour Mobie A32 suspension fork for a smooth feel. Power settings are adjustable via an easy-to-manage phone app, plus all of the needed accessories for commuting—rack, fenders, and lights—come standard. While the Vado is pricier than some other bikes in the class, it has a refined feel, a strong global dealer network in case of motor issues, and is a thrilling e-bike to ride. This complete BMX build is one of the cheapest, and with a few minor upgrades, it can be your go-to ride. It’s got a treadless sealed integrated headset, aluminum U-brake and brake levers, removable brake mounts, and an ultra-durable steel frame.
And now, after a long hiatus, the California Special is back and better than ever. The legendary California Special BMX bike by Mongoose is back, based on the original 1983 design. Lets take a look at the features and benefits of the new California Special and explore why it’s a must-have for BMX enthusiasts. Still making bikes today, they have seen it all thru the years.
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Mongoose “Legion L16” BMX Bike – 16 Inch
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Is annoying heavy for bunny hops, plus the internal wiring prevents barspins. That specialization means that, as with the mountain bike cousins, you will give up performance in one area to gain it elsewhere—but the diversity of adult-sized BMX bikes is not nearly as outrageous as it is on the mountain. It’s possible to race on your skatepark bike or vice versa. As with most things we buy, our final decision is based not only on what we want but also on what we can afford—and somewhere in the middle is the best option for the money and the riding you do. So while a $6,000 custom commuter bike might make you starry-eyed, there are plenty of sub-$1,000 possibilities that fit your needs. And while a $500 city bike is easier on the wallet, it might not offer the best features for longer commutes or those with mixed terrain.
Those bigger wheels can be intimidating, but they aren’t completely uncontrollable. The Big Ripper is an icon from SE, lending a stable ride for those who want to pop big wheelies and cruise down the block. Those larger wheels, however, can be downright intimidating for smaller or younger riders. The 26-inch Flyer is the way to go if you want to jump into the Bike Life culture without feeling like you’re mounting a steed of a 29-inch. Plus, it looks fantastic with its retro style based on BMX culture of decades past.
This brake kit delivers super-fast, reliable stopping power that you can count on. Whether you’re racing down a steep hill or navigating tight turns, the DiaCompe MX brake kit will help you stay in mongoose bicycle control. First introduced in 1983, the California Special was a game-changer in the world of BMX. With its innovative design and superior performance, it quickly became a favorite among riders.
For riders looking to learn tricks and stunts, then a freestyle bike is the correct choice. Based in Easton, Pennsylvania, Tara spends tons of time on the road and trail testing products. A familiar face at cyclocross races, crits, and bike parks in the Mid Atlantic and New England, on weekends she can often be found racing for the New York City-based CRCA/KruisCX team. When not riding a bike, or talking about them, Tara listens to a lot of ska, punk, and emo music, and consumes too much social media.