I took delivery of the Redline D600 a few months ago to test it out. Mind you this review is at a view point of an entry-level 29er rider.
The test bike I had was a medium, I’m 5’7″ and the fit on this was almost right with the exception of my short arms. With that in mind I swapped out the stock stem to a shorter 60mm version.
Here are some Key Features/Specs:
MSRP: $599
Frame 6061 Alloy Hydroformed Down Tube
Fork SR Suntour XCX With Hydraulic Lockout 100mm
Drive Train SRAM X4 3X8
Crank SR Suntour XCT
Brakes Promax Mechanical Disc
As you saw above the parts are what most seasoned riders as “entry level.” But for a person who might be just betting into mountain biking, it may not matter. Yes the Redline D600 is a 24speed mountain bike. It has a basic fork with a preload adjustment and lock out
How does the D600 ride? Coming from a 26er, riding a 29er felt tall. The big wheels do feel like they roll better on the flats, cornering was just fine since the CST Critter 29er tires surprising gripped well.
The Promax Mechanical Brakes worked great in stopping the big wheels. Though it uses an 8speed drive train the SRAM X4 3X8 set up was very reliable. Out of the box I didn’t even have to tune the derailluers and during the months that I rode with it, they kept shifting precisely. One some of the tougher climbing I did, I did wish for a larger cog in the back to shift too that you’d normally find on a 9speed and even on 10speed bikes. Then again if if the D600 was equipped with a 3X9, then the price point would be much higher.
Overall the Redline D600 is a great entry-level bike. The beauty of this bike is this…when the entry level rider has become more seasoned due to riding the D600, he can easily upgrade the parts on it. The D600’s 6061 frame is not only made of quality aluminum alloy, but it’s pretty durable. So with an upgrade of parts here and there, their D600 could easily become a high end 29er.
