For those dipping their toes into the exhilarating world of mountain biking, the question of cost inevitably arises. “How much do I really need to spend to get a decent mountain bike?” is a common refrain. Often, seasoned enthusiasts suggest a starting budget of $600-$800, a figure that can be disheartening for newcomers. In the dedicated mountain bike community, this is a reasonable entry point. However, for someone unfamiliar with this specialized cycling realm, exceeding $500 can feel like a significant investment.
This is where the Schwinn Axum mountain bike enters the frame, presenting itself as an intriguing option at under $400. When Schwinn offered us a chance to review this budget-friendly mountain bike, we were compelled to examine its specifications and real-world performance. Could this affordable option genuinely handle trails and allow riders to progress in the sport? Join us as we delve into the Schwinn Axum and determine if it’s a recommendable starting point for aspiring mountain bikers.
Rider on a Schwinn Axum mountain bike, demonstrating its capability on varied terrain.
Schwinn Axum: Key Features and Specifications
The Schwinn Axum boasts a set of features that are surprisingly robust for its price category. Here’s a quick rundown of the highlights:
- Aluminum Frame: A lightweight and durable aluminum frame forms the backbone of the bike.
- 100mm Suspension Fork: Provides front suspension with 100mm of travel to absorb bumps on the trail.
- Mechanical Disc Brakes: Offers reliable stopping power with front and rear mechanical disc brakes.
- Versatile Sizing: Designed to accommodate riders ranging from 5 feet 4 inches to 6 feet 2 inches tall.
- 1×8 Drivetrain: Features a modern and simple 1×8 drivetrain with an 11-40 cassette for a wide range of gears.
- 29×2.6 Tires: Equipped with wide 29×2.6-inch tires for enhanced traction and stability.
- 35mm Double-Wall Rims: Durable 35mm alloy double-wall rims to withstand trail riding.
- Modern Cockpit: Features a 60mm stem paired with a 720mm handlebar for responsive handling.
- Dropper Post Ready: Internal cable routing is included, making it compatible with dropper post upgrades.
For more detailed information, you can check out the Schwinn Axum at Walmart.com.
A Schwinn Axum mountain bike confidently tackling an uphill climb on a trail.
Diving Deeper: Component Analysis and Design
At first glance, the Schwinn Axum’s specifications appear almost too good to be true for a mountain bike priced under $400. The inclusion of an aluminum frame at this price point is a significant advantage, suggesting a focus on durability and weight savings compared to steel frames often found in this category.
The 1×8 drivetrain is a particularly modern touch, eliminating the complexity of a front derailleur and simplifying gear changes. This setup is becoming increasingly common on contemporary mountain bikes, even at higher price points, due to its ease of use and reduced maintenance. The wide 29×2.6-inch tires mounted on 35mm wide rims are also noteworthy. This combination promises enhanced traction, improved rollover capability on rough terrain, and a more comfortable ride – features highly desirable for trail riding. Furthermore, the inclusion of front and rear disc brakes adds a crucial element of control and safety, particularly in varied trail conditions. The 100mm suspension fork aims to absorb shocks and bumps, enhancing comfort and control on uneven surfaces.
Looking closer at the finer details, the frame’s provision for internal dropper post routing is a forward-thinking design choice. While a dropper post isn’t included stock, this compatibility allows for a significant upgrade down the line, improving the bike’s descending capabilities. The short 60mm stem is a progressive component that contributes to more responsive steering, although the 720mm handlebar width is on the narrower side by modern trail bike standards. While the inclusion of a kickstand might seem out of place for a mountain bike, it’s easily removable for riders seeking a more trail-oriented setup. The use of Schrader valves, while less common on higher-end mountain bikes which typically favor Presta valves, is a minor detail that may require an adapter for some pump setups.
Close-up view of the Schwinn Axum’s front suspension fork and mechanical disc brake system.
The Fit Factor: Sizing Considerations
A critical aspect to consider with the Schwinn Axum is its current availability in a single size. Schwinn claims this size can accommodate riders from 5’4″ to 6’2″. However, personal experience suggests that this “one-size-fits-all” approach may be a compromise. For riders around 5’8″, the bike might feel quite long. Geometry measurements reveal that the top tube and reach are comparable to a Large or even XL size in some other mountain bike models. While adjustments like pushing the saddle forward and using a shorter stem (e.g., 25mm) can improve the fit for riders on the shorter end of the recommended height range, it’s something to be aware of, especially for those under 5’10”.
Side-by-side comparison of the Schwinn Axum’s size relative to a Specialized Epic mountain bike.
Diagram illustrating the Schwinn Axum’s top tube length in comparison to a Specialized Epic.
Trail Test: Riding the Schwinn Axum
To assess the Schwinn Axum’s real-world trail performance, it was put to the test on the John Nicholas Trail in Saratoga, California – a trail known for its 1500-foot descent and suitability for intermediate riders.
Climbing: On paved inclines, the Axum rolled efficiently, thanks to its low-knob 29×2.6 tires. While the tires weren’t made of the stickiest rubber compound, they provided adequate grip for road climbs. However, on steeper sections reaching a 15% grade, the lowest gear felt somewhat tall, potentially posing a challenge for beginner climbers who might find themselves needing to walk on such inclines. Gear shifting remained smooth and reliable throughout the ride.
Descending and Handling: Initial braking performance on the descent required some bedding-in to achieve optimal power. Once the brakes were warmed up, the bike handled corners and minor drops reasonably well. The frame exhibited a lively feel, providing trail feedback without being overly harsh. On a small jump, bottoming out the fork occurred on the first attempt, but subsequent jumps with smoother landings were handled without reaching the fork’s travel limit. However, chain drops were experienced during some bumpier sections due to the absence of a derailleur clutch or chain retention system.
Tire detail of the Schwinn Axum, highlighting the 29 x 2.6 low knob tires and wide rims.
Suspension and Comfort: The suspension fork’s performance was limited, but adequate for the relatively smooth trail. The chain rattle was noticeable on rougher sections due to the lack of chain slap protection. The most significant limitation encountered during more spirited descending was the braking power, which felt barely sufficient at higher speeds. Riders may need to adapt their braking technique, using two fingers and anticipating braking points earlier than on bikes with more powerful brakes.
Strengths and Weaknesses of the Schwinn Axum
Strengths:
- Unbeatable Price: The $398 price point is groundbreaking for a bike with trail riding potential.
- Aluminum Frame: A lightweight and durable aluminum frame is exceptional at this price.
- Modern 1×8 Drivetrain: Simple, efficient, and appropriate for entry-level mountain biking.
- Ideal Tire Size: 29×2.6 tires provide a great balance of rolling efficiency and traction.
- Disc Brakes: Mechanical disc brakes offer decent stopping power for the price.
- Practical Grips: Lock-on grips are easily adjustable and upgradable.
- Dropper Post Compatibility: Frame is ready for a dropper post upgrade.
- Removable Kickstand: Includes a kickstand that can be easily removed for trail riding.
Weight measurement of the Schwinn Axum mountain bike as shipped, including pedals and kickstand.
Weaknesses:
- Limited Brakes: Braking power is insufficient for aggressive trail riding.
- Chain Drops: Susceptible to chain drops due to lack of clutch derailleur.
- Weight: 35 lbs is relatively heavy for a hardtail mountain bike.
- One-Size-Fits-Most (Large): Sizing is limited and may be too large for shorter riders.
- Basic Fork: Front suspension fork is heavy and offers minimal effective damping.
- Schrader Valves: Schrader valves are less common on mountain bikes and less ideal for tubeless conversion.
Action shot of the Schwinn Axum being ridden on a trail during testing.
Final Verdict: A Trail-Capable Entry Point
Is the Schwinn Axum recommendable? Absolutely. For individuals with a budget around $500, the Axum presents an exceptional value proposition. Investing in this bike and allocating the remaining funds to essential accessories is a smart approach. For riders who become passionate about mountain biking, the Axum provides a solid platform for upgrades, starting with the brakes, dropper post, and pedals.
The primary concern is the single, larger size offering. However, for riders 5’10” and taller, the fit should be suitable. Even for those slightly shorter, down to 5’7″, component adjustments can potentially optimize the fit.
The Schwinn Axum redefines the entry-level mountain bike category, establishing a new price benchmark for bikes genuinely capable of tackling real mountain bike trails. It’s an excellent starting point for beginners seeking to explore the sport without breaking the bank.
Close-up of the Schwinn Axum’s aluminum frame with internal dropper routing, highlighting its advanced features for the price.
