Cradiac XC900 Gen 3: Expert Review
The Cradiac XC900 Gen 3 MTB is a great addition to the Cradiac lineup, offering a fantastic balance of performance, durability, and comfort. With its modern design and upgraded features, it’s setting a new standard for mid-range mountain bikes.
The XC900 Gen 3 is built to deliver a smooth and enjoyable ride. The bike has been improved from the earlier Cradiac XC900, with top-notch components and thoughtful tweaks that make it even better for all kinds of cycling adventures.
Frame and Build Quality
The Cradiac XC900 Gen 3 features a 6061 Alloy Frame, which offers a perfect combination of strength and lightness. This durable frame ensures excellent performance and handling. With an 18-inch frame size, it provides a great balance of stability and agility, making it ideal for riders of various sizes and skill levels.
Drivetrain and Gearing
One of the standout features of the Cradiac XC900 Gen 3 is its 24-speed Shimano drivetrain. Equipped with a Shimano Altus M310 Front Derailleur and a Shimano Acera M3020 Rear Derailleur, the bike offers smooth and precise gear shifting. This setup is particularly useful for mountain biking, where sudden changes in gradient demand quick and reliable gear adjustments.
The Shimano Altus M315 Shifters add to the drivetrain's efficiency, making transitions between gears seamless and effortless. The gearing system ensures optimal performance.
Braking System
The Jak Dual Disc Brakes on the XC900 Gen 3 are a major improvement over the 160mm Dual Disc Brakes on the previous Cradiac XC900 model. These enhanced brakes offer greater stopping power and reliability, particularly in tough conditions like wet or muddy trails. The upgraded braking system boosts rider safety, making the bike better equipped for aggressive trail rides and downhill descents.
The Double Wall Alloy Rims enhance durability and stability, making the bike resilient against harsh riding conditions. Paired with 27.5x2.35 Nylon Tyres, the XC900 Gen 3 delivers excellent grip and performance on varied terrains, from loose gravel to paved roads.
Suspension and Comfort
The XC900 Gen 3 features a Zoom Alloy Suspension Fork with Lockout, a versatile component that allows riders to adapt to different terrains. The suspension system absorbs shocks effectively, ensuring a smooth ride on uneven surfaces. When riding on smoother roads, the lockout feature lets you switch to a rigid fork mode, improving efficiency by reducing energy loss.
The Ergo PU Seat on the XC900 Gen 3 is designed with comfort in mind, offering excellent support for long rides. Its ergonomic shape ensures a comfortable experience, while the quick-release feature allows for easy and convenient adjustments.
Crankset and Bottom Bracket
The Shimano 42/34/24T Crank on the Gen 3 is a marked improvement over the Prowheel Alloy Crank used in the previous model. Shimano's crankset offers better durability and smoother pedaling, ensuring an efficient transfer of power to the wheels.
The bike also includes a Kenli Sealed Bearing Bottom Bracket, which provides a smooth and maintenance-free experience. Sealed bearings protect the bottom bracket from dirt and moisture, making it more durable and reliable over time.
Additional Features
The XC900 Gen 3 is packed with features that enhance its functionality and convenience:
- Sealed Alloy Hubs with Quick Release: Found on both the front and rear wheels, these hubs improve the bike's performance and durability while allowing for quick and easy wheel removal.
- Alloy Pedals: These provide excellent grip, ensuring a stable and secure pedaling experience.
- Alloy Stem (80mm): This component adds to the bike's overall durability while keeping its weight low.
Comparison with the Previous Model: Cradiac XC900
The Cradiac XC900 Gen 3 introduces several upgrades over the earlier Cradiac XC900, making it a more refined and capable bike.
- Brakes
The Gen 3 is equipped with Jak Dual Disc Brakes, offering improved stopping power compared to the 160mm Dual Disc Brakes on the XC900. This makes the newer model more reliable in demanding conditions.
- Crankset
The switch from the Prowheel Alloy Crank to the Shimano 42/34/24T Crank in the Gen 3 results in smoother pedaling and greater durability.
- Drivetrain
The Cradiac XC 900 and XC 900 Gen 3 features Shimano components, including the Altus M310 Front Derailleur, Acera M3020 Rear Derailleur, and Altus M315 Shifters, offering better performance and precision compared to the previous model's drivetrain.
These upgrades make the XC900 Gen 3 a more versatile and high-performance option, appealing to riders who demand more from their MTB.
Verdict
Available at ₹ 22040 (as of November 18, 2024), the Cradiac XC900 Gen 3 MTB is a well-rounded mountain bike that excels in performance, comfort, and reliability. The thoughtful upgrades over the previous model, such as Jak Dual Disc Brakes and a Shimano crankset, elevate its overall value, ensuring it meets the needs of both casual riders and trail enthusiasts.
If you're looking for a feature-packed MTB that offers excellent performance on all terrains, the Cradiac XC900 Gen 3 is a fantastic choice. With its competitive pricing and superior build quality, it’s an investment that promises thrilling rides and long-lasting durability.
Our Rating
4.8/5
Pros
Lightweight Alloy Frame
Shimano Powered
Jak Dual Disc Brake
Zoom Alloy Lockout Suspension Fork
Cons
Available in one frame size only
Specs
Frame Material - 6061 Alloy
Frame Size - 18 Inch
Front Derailleur - Shimano Altus M310
Rear Derailleur - Shimano Acera M3020
Brakes -Jak Dual Disc Brakes
Crank - 42/34/24t Shimano
Fork - Zoom Alloy Suspension Lockout
Seat - Ergo Pu With Quick Release
Shifter - Shimano Altus M315
Tyres - 27.5x2.35 Nylon
Stem - Alloy 80mm
Front Hub - Sealed Alloy Hub With Quick Release
Rear Hub - Sealed Alloy Hub With Quick Release
Bottom Bracket - Kenli Sealed Bearing
Rims - Double Wall Alloy
Freewheels - Shimano 8 Speed Cassette
Pedals -Alloy Pedal
Weight- 16.5 Kg
Age- 14+
Gender- Unisex 5
Height- 5.4ft -5.8ft
The brand reserves the right to change prices, specifications, and components at any time without prior notice.