Retrospec Bikes Review: Are They Worth Buying?

Are you wondering if you should buy that Retrospec bike you've been eyeing for a while now? Well, here is my honest, well-researched review about them!
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Did you know that Retrospec Bikes was formerly known as Critical Cycles? Don’t worry, it wasn’t because their bicycles made rides critical! Retrospec, a US-based cycling manufacturing company has been around since 2009. They are chic and not too expensive!

But are they worth buying? Well, buddy, that’s what you and I are going to be investigating today!

Retrospec Bikes

Retrospec Bikes: Pros and Cons 

First things first, let’s look at the pros and cons before we get into any details:

Pros Cons
Unique Design Not Practical Enough
Durability Is Unmatched Stock Problems
Comfort Is Key Uncomfortable Features/Components
Affordable Price Tags  

Retrospec Bikes- A Deep Analysis

What makes retrospect bikes stand out? After very detailed research, this is what I found out:

1. They Have An Affordable Price Point 

Retrospec Bikes are affordable. I mean you can get a good-quality bike from them for under $600. Normally, the bikes from Retrospec are priced between $350-$600. What’s best is that they don’t compromise on the quality!

Some high-end bike models will cost you thousands of dollars but they are also worth the price. I have been using the Koa Rev+ 26” Electric Fat Tire Bike and I do enjoy my rides.  

2. There Is A Customization Option

Almost all the bikes from Retrospec have customizable options. Some bikes offer two different frame types, while some bikes offer different mounting options for racks. In the Electric Bikes category, the batteries can be changed according to the needs of the users.

For example, you can upgrade the battery and tires along with other customization options.

3. They Follow Eco-Friendly Practices

All the bikes from Retrospec are made from recyclable materials! The environment has almost zero strain since the materials can be recycled.

4. A 50-Day Return Policy!

Retrospec Bikes have a return policy of 50 days. Yes, I said return, not exchange! If you do not like the bike within 50 days of purchase, you can return the bike and get fully refunded. Wait! There’s a catch.

The bike needs to be in good shape or else you won’t be refunded! But I think that’s fair. Do you? Also, make sure that you have the original packaging of the bike, it won’t be accepted without it.

5. The Bikes Come With Warranty

The frame and the fork of the bike have an actual warranty of 1 year accordingly while the components have a warranty of 60 days. As the components go through a strict quality control procedure, Retrospec advises you NOT to replace them.

Customer Reviews and Feedback 

Here are some verified customer reviews so you can get an idea of the brand:

Reviewer Review Bike Purchased
Kelly K. Beautiful, simple, lightweight, easy to use, and will use it for years to come! We love this scooter! The Chipmunk Kid’s Scooter
Amy S. So fun and worth every penny! The bike had some damage on arrival, but customer service was wonderful! The Chatham Rev Electric Beach Cruiser
Mariana B. Truly enjoying my bicycle and having a great time with my daughter. Also, the sale prices were great! The Ascent 26” Mountain Bike – Step Through 21 Speed
Seward The highlight is its awesome look. However, build quality and performance are average. Assembling was super challenging. The Retrospec Beaumont 7-Speed Men’s Urban City Bike
Brett Missing the handlebar stem bolt/stem quill needed to attach the handlebar to the bike frame. Disappointed. The Harper Fixie

Note: The mentioned reviews are just for informational purposes.

Top Retrospec Bikes Top Model 

There are a lot of amazing bikes from Retrospec and you will be amazed to see their lineup. Before we get started with the best bikes from Retrospec. These are all the types of bikes that they are currently offering. 

Types Of Bikes 

Although Retrospec Bikes started from fixie bikes, they have evolved since then and stretched out their catalog of amazing bikes. These are the categories of bikes they are offering:

  • Balance Bikes
  • Folding Bikes
  • Beach Cruisers
  • Fitness Bikes
  • City Bikes
  • Hybrid Bikes
  • Fixed Gear Bikes
  • Single-Speed Bikes
  • Kids Bikes

With these amazing bikes, there are also plenty of accessories being offered too. You can also enjoy amazing customer service post-purchase. Now that we have mentioned all the bike categories from Retrospec, here are our top picks!

1. Retrospec Mantra – Editor’s Choice

Retrospec Mantra Fixie Bicycle
Retrospec Mantra Fixie Bicycle

 

Feature Description
Gear System Fixed and Single-Speed
Hub System Both single and fixed gear systems
Wheel Bolt System Makes tire theft extremely difficult
Frame Material Strong lightweight steel
Stars V-Rims Provides a strong and premium look
Design Strong and aerodynamic

If you are a fan of fixie bikes but also want something new then give this bike a try!

Editor's Choice: .Needless to say, the Retrospec Mantra is one amazing unforgettable bike. The overall construction of the bike comes together to offer exceptional performance. Even the aesthetics of the bike are quite attractive! You shouldn't pass on this bike.

2. Retrospec Harper

Retrospec Harper Bike
Retrospec Harper Bike

 

 

Feature Description
Frame Hand-built, resilient construction
Tires Kenda 700 x 28C Kwest Tires
Chain KMC Chain
Assembly Easy assembly process
Pedals VP Freestyle Pedals
Smooth Ride Silky smooth even on bumpy roads
Premium Look High-quality components with a premium appearance

The Harper has a hefty weight limit of 220 lbs, you can fill up the bike and it would still perform exceptionally.

Why I Like It: A premium bike that doesn't break your bank? You can sign me up for that! The Harper offers exceptional performance thanks to its brilliant construction and components. You wouldn't want to miss out on this!

3. Retrospec Mars Hybrid

Retrospec Mars Hybrid Bike
Retrospec Mars Hybrid Bike

 

Feature Description
Frame Diamond frame with vintage design
Speed Options Three-speed options for versatile riding
Accessory Options Great accessory options, including front light and rear rack
Tires Kenda Commuter Tires
Comfort Very comfortable ride
Weight Slightly heavy but offers great value
Value Great value at its price point

The Mars Hybrid comes in different designs and colors. The bike uses caliper brakes for absolute stopping power.

Why I Like It: The Mars Hybrid takes me back to the golden days. It is a wonderful combination of urban and hybrid bikes that come together to make something new. The high-end components make sure that the performance of the bike is exceptional!

4. Retrospec Mantra V2

Retrospec Bicycles Mantra V2
Retrospec Bicycles Mantra V2

 

Feature Description
Gear Options Choose between a single-speed hub to a seven-speed setting
Brakes Caliper Brakes for amazing stopping power
Speed Seven-Speed Version available
Pedals Light and Flat Pedals
Performance Exceptional performance in all gear settings
Upgrade Huge upgrade over the original Mantra

You would just have to spend a bit extra, but the value is so much here that you shouldn’t let it go!

Why I Like It: Everyone loves upgrades right? I loved the original Mantra but the Mantra V2 gave me enough reason to come back. The seven-speed option is just amazing and it keeps things interesting. Do give this bike a try!

5. Retrospec Venus Dutch Step-Thru

Retrospec Venus Dutch Step Thru Hybrid Bike
Retrospec Venus Dutch Step Thru Hybrid Bike

 

Feature Description
Design Super Comfortable Design for total comfort
Speed Options Seven-Speed Versions available
Riding Position Relaxing Position with upward handlebars
Wheels Comes With Hybrid Wheels for versatile use
Commute Focus Designed for shorter and comfier commutes

It is perfect for park rides and neighborhood patrols. Expect a carefree ride with the Retrospec Venus Dutch!

Why I Like It: If you want a bike for daily commutes or just roaming around the city then the Retrospec Venus Dutch is going to be the perfect choice for you! You can choose different speed versions and expect to enjoy the special handlebars!

6. Retrospec Cub Kids Bicycle

Retrospec Cub Kids Balance Bike
Retrospec Cub Kids Balance Bike

 

Feature Description
Frame Durable Steel Frame, low-framed for easy balancing
Maintenance Easy To Maintain
Handlebars Adjustable Handlebars for growing kids
Price Tag Affordable Price Tag for budget-friendly options
Design Balance bike design, no pedals for easy learning

If you are worried about assembly then don’t worry, the bike comes 80% assembled. For kids aged up to 5 years, this is an amazing bike to have!

Why I Like It: This is one of the best kid's bikes in the market, there is more than enough value to be found here. The durable steel frame makes sure that the bike withstands all kinds of abuse, it is also very lightweight. For a beginner's kid's bike, this is perfect!

7. Retrospec Barron Step-Thru Comfort Hybrid

Retrospec Barron Step Thru Comfort Hybrid
Retrospec Barron Step Thru Comfort Hybrid

 

Feature Description
Gear System Shimano 21-Speed Gear System
Tires Kenda Kwest Tires
Price Tag Amazing Price Tag for great value
Performance Exemplary performance for various uses
Design Sleek and sexy design for long-lasting enjoyment
Sizes Available in four different sizes for every rider

One of the best things I like about this bike is the inclusion of the aluminum riser 35mm bar, this makes sure that the bike is always in your control and you have an upright position.

Why I Like It: I love hybrid bikes, they bring out the best of everything! Retrospec Barron is one of the top choices that you can go for. It is a bike that doesn't just look good but performs well too! For the price tag, you are certainly getting a mouthful here.

8. Retrospec Beaumont 7-Speed City Bike

Retrospec Beaumont 7 Speed City Bike
Retrospec Beaumont 7 Speed City Bike

 

Feature Description
Frame Durable and lightweight frame, designed for women
Tires All-season tires for versatile riding
Gear System Shimano 7-Speed gear set for various speed options
Comfort Comfortable ride, feels like riding on a cloud
Handling Easy handling with a rigid and comfortable shape
Design Specifically designed for women’s comfort and style

With slimmer tires, you’ll get satisfying performance.

Why I Like It: A women's bike that aspires to confidence and offers top performance at the same time? Sign me up! The Retrospec Beaumont is a bike to behold, from the amazing construction to the features, it oozes quality all over. The never-before-seen thin tires offer great performance and comfort!

Retrospec Bike Size Chart

Retrospec Bikes are mainly known for their single-speed/fixie bikes. Here is the bike size chart for a detailed guide.

Height Inseam Length Frame Size
5’1’’-5’3’’ 27’’-29’’ 48 cm
5’3’’-5’5’’ 28’’-30’’ 50 cm
5’5’’-5’7’’ 29’’-31’’ 52 cm
5’7’’-5’9’’ 30’’-32’’ 54 cm
5’9’’-5’11’’ 31’’-33’’ 56 cm
5’11’’-6’2’’ 32’’-34’’ 58 cm
6’1’’-6’5’’ 33’’-35’’ 60 cm

The bike size chart is going to help you find the best bike for yourself! I do recommend that you consider your inseam length as it is the most important factor when deciding the size of your bike.

What You Need To Know Before Buying A Retrospec Bike

Retrospec bikes are all great what do you need to consider before actually going for them? Just consider these aspects and you would be good to go!

Aspect Consideration
Comfort Consider your comfort while riding. Look for features like a comfortable seat and handlebars for an enjoyable ride.
Purpose Determine the purpose of getting a bike. Whether it’s for fun or professional use, Retrospec offers options for urban and daily commute bikes.
Planned Activities Consider your planned activities with the bike. Are you using it for hobbies, commuting, or leisure? Tailor your choice accordingly.
Surrounding Landscape Evaluate the landscape of your surroundings. Retrospec bikes are not suitable for hilly regions due to their construction. Choose accordingly based on your living area.

Only get these bikes if you don’t live in hilly areas as the lack of gears would make traversal very difficult!

My Analysis Of Retrospec Bikes

This here is a million-dollar question, should you go for Retrospec Bikes? What can you expect from them? I found that Retrospec Bikes keeps bringing innovation. They do have something for every kind of rider!

They are also offering multi-speed bikes. The speeds start from 3 and then go on to 21. There are not just adult bikes but also kids’ bikes. Retrospec bikes also favor accessibility. This means that you can customize your bike to the heart’s content! What I like is that things are simple and fun with Retrospec Bikes. 

Check Also

FAQs

Question: Are Retrospec Bikes Good?

Retrospec Bikes are very good, they have good controls and are also very easy to use. You can expect to find amazing kid’s bikes to adult bikes. Would I recommend them? Definitely!

Question: Are Retrospec Bikes Cheap?

Keeping the rising inflation in mind, the bikes from Retrospec are still considered cheap. You can get a good quality bike in the $350-$550 range. Yes, they also have high-end bikes that will cost more than $1000, the quality of those bikes is still unmatched!

Question: Where Are Retrospec Bikes Made?

To keep the quality and the vision of the company as authentic as possible, all production is done in California, USA.

Recap

Drumroll! Here’s the verdict. Overall, keeping in mind all the aspects of a bike, I will give Retrospec a 7/10. But if you are looking for something professional, my rating for Retrospec will be 5.5/10. Their bikes are good for casual riding.

But do try them out yourself to see if you like their bikes or not! How would you rate their bikes? Let me know in the comments!


This article was crafted by Paul Galloway, a seasoned expert, bringing years of experience and knowledge about all types of bikes. Our goal is to provide you with accurate, reliable, and valuable insights to help you make informed decisions and enhance your biking experience.

Should you have any questions or require further clarification on the topic, please feel free to connect with our expert author Paul Galloway by leaving a comment below. We value your engagement and are here to assist you.

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Paul Galloway

Paul Galloway

After years of racing and teaching cycling in Oregon and Colorado, Paul is adjusting his life-work balance by enjoying the responsibilities of being a stay at home dad, while cycling everywhere the North VA and DC area allows.

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