Bicycles Stern: pros, cons and characteristics of models

Stern bicycles appeared on the Russian market not so long ago, but already managed to cause a lot of questions among lovers of budget bikes. What kind of manufacturing country produces products under this brand? Is it true that this is Sportmaster’s own brand and is it possible to trust a company with a short history?

In fact, the Stern (Stern) folding and regular, women's and men's bicycles managed to conquer the Russian market thanks to decent quality and affordable products. Travel 20, Multi and other models are successfully sold throughout the country and receive positive feedback from owners.

Stern bicycles replaced the recently popular Nordway on the shelves of Sportmaster stores. The country of manufacture of bikes is not Russia at all, as one might think, but China (sometimes Austria is indicated, since the company of the same name produces electric tools).

Assembly and refinement of models, their equipping with attachments is carried out in the Russian Federation, service centers are located here. The Stern brand produces bikes designed for ski enthusiasts, they do not have impressive technical characteristics and are quite attractive for their price segment.

Considering the benefits of Stern bikes, the following points can be noted.

• The use of modern technology in the manufacture of frames. The company applies butting, hydroforming, and a variable cross-section of the profile to facilitate the structure without losing its strength.
• Existence of models with lock of depreciation fork. This allows you to make it stiff when riding on a flat road or when lifting.
• The use of different types of brake systems. Depending on the purpose of the model, disc hydraulic or mechanical options are used. In nurseries - foot brakes.
• Well thought-out construction geometry. Each model provides optimal controllability based on the goals and objectives that it solves. There are even carbon monocoque - an unusual solution for a budget brand.
• Good cushioning. Mountain bikes have forks to mitigate the impact. Rigid rigids are used in road models.
• The presence of folding bikes in the lineup. Today, not all companies are ready to create bikes with transforming frames for compact storage and transportation.
• Interesting characteristic design, recognizable at first sight.

Among the minuses of Bicycles Stern can be distinguished insufficiently high strength of individual components, massiveness of steel frames. Some components - rims, pedals, grips and saddles - experienced riders recommend immediately replacing with compatible elements of higher quality. In addition, the company has existed for less than 10 years (since 2010), and many problems are associated with commonplace errors in the launch of new models.

You can find bikes in the Stern brand product lines. for women and men, teenage and children's audiences. But the main division into types still occurs according to the purpose of the bikes. There are 2 main product categories.

All mountain bikes are divided into double-suspension and hardtail. Stern’s MTB brand is focused on riding on moderately rough terrain, cycling, descents and ascents of varying steepness. The following symptoms are characteristic of such bikes:

• 1 or 2 shock absorbers depending on the version;
• frame with increased structural strength;
• double rims for increased rigidity;
• deep, clearly cut tread;
• Mandatory transmission for 18-30 gears;
• diameter of wheels is from 26 to 29 ″.

Mountain hardtails have a shock absorber located in front, the rear part of the structure retains its rigidity. They are lighter, but on the roads become less manageable. Double-suspension models have an additional rear shock absorber, which provides a reduction in the intensity of loads arising from vibration of the frame.

The most extensive Stern bike class that has folding and classic models, as well as lightweight frame bicycles. City versions usually have the widest equipment, it has everything you need for a comfortable everyday ride - from wings and mudguards to the trunk, flashlight, seatpost, chain protection, basket.

Characteristics of city bikes.

• Massive frame design, providing durability of the bicycle in use. It is made of steel or aluminum alloys.
• Rigid rigid fork, providing sufficient comfort when driving on a hard surface.
• Lack of gear shifting or their small quantity. Singlespeeds are increasingly chosen by lovers of simple skating without setting speed records.
• Significant rim diameter - 28-29 ″ - is considered the norm, smaller sizes are found mainly on teenage or folding bikes.
• Universal rubber is quite smooth, without a pronounced tread pattern.

The species diversity of Stern bicycles mainly concerns the type of frame construction - solid or folding. In addition, there is a division into models for adolescents, children, adult men and women. All of them have their typical characteristics and are focused on meeting the needs of different categories of users.

The presented range of Stern bicycles includes a fairly wide range of options with a transforming frame. The folding models are distinguished by the following models.

• Travel 20 ″. The model is presented in single-speed version and in multi-speed version (Travel 20 Multi) with 6 switching positions. The bike is equipped with a steel Hi-Ten frame, suitable for teenagers and adult riders. The fork is rigid, rigid, without shock absorbers, rim brakes, wheels with single aluminum rims, there is a chain protection in the kit.

• Compact 20 ″. The model is presented in a single-speed (1.0) version with a Hi-Ten Steel frame and in a multi-speed version (2.0) with a lightweight aluminum base. The product has an adjustable ergonomic saddle, good basic equipment, ergonomic grips.

• Compact 24 ″. Model with a large wheel diameter for a folding bike. It has an original design, plastic wings included, compact dimensions when folded. The lightweight aluminum frame is responsible for the minimum weight, switching between 7 speeds makes it possible to choose the optimal driving mode.

Adult bicycles in the Stern model range are equipped with a speed shift transmission - there must be at least 21 in mountain bikes and from 1 in city bikes. In addition, there is a division into female and male models with different types of frames, wheel sizes are the largest among all the options.

City female models Stern bikes are available in 2 versions: Urban 1.0 Lady 28 ″ and Urban 2.0 Lady 28 ″. This is a stylish hardtail with spring-elastomeric type of fork, rim or disc mechanical brakes, double reinforced rims. Both versions provide comfortable riding in the city, allow you to develop good speed on the road.

Female mountain models are presented in the Stern assortment by the following popular options.

• Vega 2.0 26 ″. An advanced option for riders with little experience. Equipped with a lowered upper tube frame made of Hi-Ten steel, spring-elastomeric shock absorption fork.

• Mira 1.0 26 ″. An entry-level mountain bike with mechanical disc brakes, convenient gear shifting thanks to the Shimano transmission. Aluminum frame with original pipe shape with optimized geometry. The model is made in hardtail format.

• Electra 2.0 27.5 ″. The flagship model with a recognizable bright design, the original geometry of the frame made of light aluminum alloy. Disc, hydraulic brakes, spring fork with hydraulic damper and 100 mm stroke, there is a lock and its stiffness adjustment. Aluminum pedals, the model is adapted to a load of up to 110 kg.

In the urban category of bicycles models with a diameter of 28 ″ wheels are presented. Stern Urban 1.0 with an adjustable steering wheel and an aluminum frame made in hard tail format, with a front shock absorber spring-elastomer type with a stroke of 45 mm. 18-speed Prowheel transmission provides ease of riding, dual wheel rims, V-brakes.

City men's bike Stern Urban 2.0 Equipped with aluminum frame with Bi-Axial Tubing. The set includes disc mechanical brakes, an ergonomic saddle optimized for rigidity, and a shock absorber.

Male mountain models are represented by such popular versions.

• Stern Energy 2.0 FS 26″. Compact and bright dual-suspension for the most active riders. The set includes an aluminum frame, spring-elastomeric fork with a stroke of 80 mm, transmission at 21 speeds. The model is designed to overcome the most extreme routes, has a high cross.

• Stern Motion 29″. "Niner" with a lockable front fork spring-hydraulic type. The hardtail is equipped with an aluminum lightweight frame, plastic pedals, disc brakes. The steering wheel and saddle are adjustable, with a comfortable fit.The frame has an original geometry to best overcome the most difficult obstacles.

• Stern Dynamic 2.0 26 ″. Budget male model of mountain hardtail. It features a simple but reliable design, due to the steel frame, the model is quite heavy. The spring-elastomeric fork has a stroke of 60 mm, the Shimano transmission at 21 speeds works smoothly and gently.

Stern bicycle models for teenagers use rim brakes and provide for the installation of a transmission with gear changes - from 6 to 8 positions. The fork in such bikes is shock-absorbing, softening road irregularities when moving. Wheel diameter starts at 18 inches.

Among the popular models of teenage Stern bikes are the following.

• Attack 24 ″. The flagship of the teenage line is designed for the age category of 8-12 years. The model is made in the format of a mountain hardtail (there is a double suspension with the marking Attack 24 FS), it is equipped with a shock-absorbing fork with a stroke of 40 mm, a 21-speed transmission from the world famous Shimano brand. The model has a footrest, which allows for temporary parking with comfort, a reliable steel frame and V-brakes.

• Attack 20 ″. A small copy of the flagship, a fairly budget model, suitable as the first bike for a schoolchild. Bright design will delight boys from 6 to 9 years old, the transmission is designed for 7 speeds, the saddle is conveniently adjustable in height.

• Leeloo 20 ″. Bright model for girls aged 6-9 years, according to the characteristics corresponds to the model Attack 20 ″. Version Street equipped with aluminum lightweight frame instead of steel.

Children's Stern bicycles are equipped with additional training wheels with which the child can ride the entire period of learning to ride. The brake system here is foot-operated, as simple and convenient as possible, the frame size and the height of the saddle take into account the anatomical features of the child's physique. There is no gear shift, the fork is rigid, without shock absorbers.

Among the popular models can be noted Fantasy - a series for girls with a diameter of wheels 12 ″, 16 ″, 20 ″. In younger models, additional training elements are provided to ensure sustainability. Ergonomic frame made of Hi-Ten steel. The design has a saddle with an anatomical shape, wings for the front and rear wheels. The brake system is tick-borne, there is a built-in chain protection, a footboard.

Stern Rocket 16 (there are versions with a wheel diameter of 12 ″, 20 ″) is one of the most popular models of children's bikes for boys. You can choose the option for any height and age, from the baby to the teenager. Affordable price also serves as an additional element that attracts the attention of consumers. The steel frame guarantees structural strength at any driving intensity. Rocket 12 you can choose for the smallest children from 3 years.

Among children's models, the Stern Vicky 14 bike with the maximum configuration and unusual design also stands out. The bike is designed for young cyclists with a height of 95 to 120 cm, made in pink and turquoise colors. The package includes side wheels, a stylish trunk for dolls, original grips with decorative bows and a basket on the steering wheel.

What should be considered when choosing a bike for rider height? The easiest option is to try on right in the store. Standing on his feet and resting his back on the saddle, an adult should have 10 cm free space from the groin to the frame. If you select a mountain bike with an order remotely, it is better to use more accurate data. It is necessary to measure the length of the leg from the groin to the floor on the inner side of the thigh and multiply the result by a factor of 0.57 (for city and highway models - by 0.66).

If the frame size is in inches, the value in centimeters is divided by 2.54. For children growth 130-145 cm (preschoolers and primary schoolchildren) have their own sizes.This age category corresponds to models with 13 ″ or 33 cm frames. For adolescents up to 155 cm tall, bicycles with a 14 ″ base are suitable. For the size of 145-160 cm, a frame of 15 ″ is needed.

The main criteria for choosing a Stern bike depends on who will ride the bike. For example, for children and adolescents, the following are important:

• the presence of training wheels in the kit (for young children and beginners);
• rim diameter - 12-24 ″, taking into account the growth of the child;
• frame height;
• the presence of reflectors and other security attachments.

When choosing a comfortable city bike, you should also pay attention to certain points. Here, the number of gears does not matter: there can be from 1 to 7. But chain protection and fenders with mud flaps must be mandatory - it is these components that help keep clothes clean when riding in wet weather.

The type of frame also matters - the female one allows you to comfortably sit down and get off the bike even in a skirt. Besides, it is worth paying attention to the brakes - manual or foot, the presence of additional components.

When choosing a Stern mountain bike, you need to make sure that it will have the following advantages:

• front hydraulic shock absorber;
• rear suspension (not all bikes are fully suspended);
• a transmission with at least 21 speeds;
• wheels with a width of at least 2 inches, with a clear and deep tread pattern;
• lightweight but sturdy frame.

The selection of spare parts and accessories for Stern bicycles, thanks to the presence of a well-developed network of service centers, is not difficult. Initially, the manufacturer declared a service life of 5 years. But attachments are only covered by a 2 year warranty. But on the frame, this period is increased to 10 years. The most intensively worn out components and elements: bearings, brake pads, grips, tires and chambers are not subject to free repair or exchange.

Most often, on the initiative of riders, saddles and grips change - not everyone their form seems quite ergonomic. In addition, in budget models, even a slight collision with the curb can provoke deformation of the rims. This problem is relevant for teenage and urban models. In versions with a double rim, this does not happen, but they are not insured 100% of the damage, although they get them much less often.

If you compare Stern bikes with other options similar in price and quality, it’s hard to say right away that it better suits customers' ideas about a quality product. Most often, the products of this company are compared with Stels, Forward, Stark, Stinger - other budget brands of bikes. At first glance, they are really almost identical. The assortment of these brands includes mainly budget-level bikes that are not designed for heavy loads.

Stern bikes are made in China, part of the assembly and pre-sale operations are transferred to Russia. Stels, Forward, Stark - domestic firms ordering frames in China and Taiwan. Stinger collects Velobalt at its plant in Kaliningrad, but the brand is Taiwanese, the company copies well-known models without developing its own design options.

As for Stern, it belongs to the Sportmaster chain of stores and is distributed mainly through it. But here is the important thing: under this brand, bikes are produced that have a good body kit and frames copied from large manufacturing companies. They do not provide a sufficient level of comfort when riding.

Stels and Stinger have similar problems. In general, we can say that there is simply no difference in class between the models in the price range up to 15,000 rubles, respectively, Stern is no worse than its more well-known counterparts.

The opinion of customers about the quality and reliability of Stern bikes looks quite positive.According to the owners, the brand’s products stand out from the competition not only at a budget price. The level of production allows you to use the bike for its intended purpose, without experiencing difficulties with its operation. Of course, the level of quality of materials here is significantly lower than that of bicycles manufactured by top companies. Experienced riders recommend immediately changing the rims - single variants do not withstand serious loads, and riding wheels with the Eights is simply unsafe for health.

Among the shortcomings are also noted insufficiently durable paintwork, a rather massive frame design (especially if it is made of steel), and not very reliable brakes. Otherwise, Stern bikes are well worth the money that the manufacturer offers to pay for them.

Bicycles Stern - products for confident lovers and beginners in skiing. You should not expect high speeds or record endurance from them. But this is a good solution for cases when you need to get the first positive experience of skiing or explore the surroundings. For example, you can get a bike with a carbon frame for a reasonable price and test it in practice. For this, customers choose Stern products for themselves and their loved ones.

The following video will tell you about whether to buy a Stern bike.