Raleigh Redux Review
Category: Hybrid Bikes
Overview
A versatile and fully functional duo, they offer a casual hybrid frame geometry which is ideal for both casual cruising and picking up the pace for some spirited driving. Lightweight and durable, Raleigh aimed to create a bike that is easy to haul up a few floors into an apartment yet rugged enough for long-term reliability.
| Groupset | Frame material | Fork material | Brake type | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Redux 1 | Shimano Acera | Aluminum | Aluminum | Mechanical Disc |
| Redux 2 | Shimano Alivio | Aluminum | Aluminum | Hydraulic Disc |
The Redux 2 having higher specs of the pair, they feature identical dimensions and only differ in some components offered. Forgoing any suspension on the front and rear, they’re mechanically simple and forgiving for all sorts of riders.
Frameset
Built out of a rugged AL-6061 aluminum alloy, the frame is both lightweight and durable, serving a good foundation to build on and sure to last for many years to come. The front fork is made out of the same aluminum and offers good performance and weight savings, without the cost associated with carbon forks.
One of the primary differences between the two, the Redux 2 makes use of a hydraulic disc brake assembly while the other instead utilizes mechanical disc brakes. Hydraulics are often preferred for the improved stopping power at the cost of maintenance if things do end up going wrong.
| Frame | Fork | |
|---|---|---|
| Redux 1 | Raleigh Custom AL-6061 Custom Formed Tubing | Alloy Blades, w/Post Mount Disc, Internal Cable Routing |
| Redux 2 | AL-6061 Double Butted Custom Formed Tubing | Alloy Blades, w/Post Mount Disc, Internal Cable Routing |
You would be well served by either set of brakes, however, if you’re fond of more energetic cycling, going for the hydraulic brakes might be your better buy.
It’s worth mentioning the attractive aesthetic which fuses tasteful minimalism and a lack of overt branding all blended with modern design philosophies. Certainly an attractive bike by most anyone’s standards!
Groupset
The other primary difference between the two, the Redux 1 incorporates a mix of various Shimano components like the Redux 2, however of slightly lesser quality. The 1 and 2 have 8 and 9 available speeds respectively, though this extra gear carries not much difference in real-world applications.
| Redux 1 | Redux 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Shifters | Shimano M310 8-speed Trigger Shifter, Right Only | Shimano Acera M3000 9-Speed Trigger Shifter, Right Side Only |
| Front Derailleur | N/A | N/A |
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano Acera M360 | Shimano Alivio M4000 Shadow |
| Crankset | Alloy Forged 3PC 104BCD, 40t | Alloy Forged 3PC 104BCD, 40t |
| Brakes | Tektro MD-M280 Mechanical Disc | Tektro HD-T285 Hydraulic Disc |
| Cassette | Shimano 8 Speed, 11-34 Cassette | Shimano 9sp 11-34t Cassette |
| Chain | KMC 8sp | KMC 9sp |
The Shimano Acera parts found on the Redux 2 are noticeably snappier in terms of shifting and mechanical efficiency, and this combined with the hydraulic brakes make the Redux 2 a better bang for the buck.
Wheels
Their aluminum alloy 32 spoke wheels are plenty strong and certainly able to withstand a chunk of abuse. A standard 27.5” size, replacement tires, and wheels can be found everywhere in case damage happens and or new tubes need to be swapped in.
| Rims | Tires | |
|---|---|---|
| Redux 1 | Alloy DDM-5, 32h, 27.5″, 28mm Wide Double Wall | Vee Tire Co. Zilent 27.5x47c, Wire Bead, 30 TPI |
| Redux 2 | Alloy DDM-5, 32h, 27.5″, 28mm Wide Double Wall | Vee Tire Co. Zilent 27.5x47c, Wire Bead, 30 TPI |
Both Redux bikes use the same Vee Zilent tires which are 47mm wide which are solid tires for all-purpose use. While they won’t give the best traction off-road or in more demanding conditions, they’ll certainly do great on light paths, gravel, and pavement. They’re rather durable which is great, though once they wear out we’d recommend picking up the best set of rubber you can afford.
Ergonomics
Essentially the same from bike to bike, they feature the same Redux saddle though the Redux 2 has a higher standing set of bars which many find slightly more comfortable for daily use. This alone however isn’t a significant factor and doesn’t impact performance by any noticeable degree.
| Seat | Handlebar | Pedals | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redux 1 | Redux Saddle | Alloy, 31.8, 15mm Rise, 680mm Wide | Alloy Body, Cromo Spindle |
| Redux 2 | Redux Saddle | Double Butted Alloy 35mm, 28mm Rise, 680mm Wide | Alloy Body, Cromo Spindle |
The bikes from the get-go have their geometry tailored towards comfort and simplicity for use throughout the day, and they’re certainly much comfier than competing gravel or road bikes. They’re certainly not dedicated sport bikes but rather comfortable yet capable grocery getters which can be adequate for adventuring whenever the occasion appears.