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Pros |
Affordable, durable, stylish |
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Cons |
Unassembled, brakes |
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Summary |
Though more advanced riders should look elsewhere, new cyclists and non-picky consumers may want to consider the GMC Denali Road Bike. |
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Our Rating |
82/100 |
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Manufacturer |
With the Denali Road Bikes, GMC created an efficient product for those in need of a sturdy, everyday bike. Despite the GMC label, this bike is manufactured by Kent International. This, in my opinion, is a positive indicator because the bikes are being produced by a company with many years of experience, rather than a company that, while excellent at creating cars, is just getting started in the cycling industry.
The GMC Denali Road Bike is a solid choice for anyone in need of a transportation bike. The bike is built to withstand the everyday wear and tear of commuting.
The bike itself is a bit heavy, coming in around twenty-seven pounds. However, it does have a slimmer frame compared to other road bikes in this price range, like the Merax Finish Aluminum 21 Speed 700C Road Bike or the Nashbar AL1 Sora Road Bike.
A quick word of caution, however – though they are available in multiple sizes – riders under 5′ may have a difficult time. Despite the GMC label, this bike is manufactured by Kent International. This, in my opinion, is a positive indicator because the bikes are being produced by a company with many years of experience, rather than a company that, while excellent at creating cars, is just getting started in the cycling industry.
The Specific Details
Without wasting time, let’s have a look under the hood and get to the nitty-gritty details.
Frame Size
The GMC Denali Road Bike comes in four different sizes. Its aluminum frame is durable and robust.
- The largest model comes with a frame size of 25”/63.5 centimeters or 18 x 41 x 68 inches
- The medium size is 22.5”/57 centimeters or 18 x 40 x 67 inches
- The small is 19”/48 centimeters or 18 x 40 x 57 inches
- The x-small is 16”/41 centimeters or 9.2 x 28 x 51 inches
BIke sizing options
Brake Type
Equipped with alloy caliper brakes and handle brake levers, the GMC Denali Road Bike has a reasonably responsive mechanical rim braking system. Caliper brakes are usually best for road bikes in case they need stop for traffic at the drop of a dime.
Shifter
The GMC Denali Bike comes with a 21-speed shifter. The Shimano Revo shifters and Shimano derailleur allow for smooth gear transitions.
- Rims and Pedal
- High-profile allow Vitesse racing rims
- 36 alloy spoke rims
- Nylon pedals
Tires
- High-performance 700c tires
- 28-millimeter tires
- Recommended tire pressure: 50 to 75 PSI
Price Range
The GMC Denali Road Bike is a viable bike for anyone shopping on a budget.
However, keep in mind that the GMC Denali Road Bike comes completely unassembled. You will need a Philips head screwdriver, Allen wrench, and flathead screwdriver to attach the parts. If you’re uncomfortable with assembly and willing the shell out an extra few dollars, you can order the bike wholly assembled.
What’s to Like About It?
Considering its reasonably entry-level price range, you can’t complain about not getting your money’s worth with the Denali Road Bike – especially when you take into account the natural longevity of the product. This value is a good find for beginners interested in a good source of transportation or a starter racing bike.
The versatility is a big plus as well. The Denali can handle roads, but it is also durable enough to brave more rugged terrain. Its unisex design makes it not-too-masculine and not-too-feminine, and the selection of colors allows for some cool customization.
The Denali’s four different sizes also appeal to a broader selection of tall or short riders. The sizing chart is available on our website, check it out. Though the GMC Denali Road Bike is a starter, it contains the same gear and parts as a high-end race bike, which makes it a useful learning tool for amateurs.
Pros
- Affordable
- Incredibly durable and long lasting
- Versatile for different road styles
- Nice tires
- Good training bike
- Stylish
What’s to Dislike About It?
Since the GMC Denali Road Bike comes unassembled, there may be some room for user error during assembly. It is unfortunate that it is so expensive to ship the fully prepared bike. It might be worth it for beginners to take their unassembled bike to a shop or contact an experienced friend.
The alloy Vitesse rims are high profile, but that doesn’t necessarily make them the best quality. Everything on the bike could indeed be of better quality, but, as mentioned, it is a starter bike.
The brakes are also difficult to adjust and wear down after a while. This unresponsiveness may be a problem for riders who need a speedy stop rate.
Cons
- Comes unassembled
- Possible user error
- Cheap material
- Brakes are hard to adjust
Who Should Buy this Bike?
As mentioned before, part of the reason the GMC Denali Road Bike appeals to an interested novice is the high-profile layout of the bike at a reasonably low cost. The bike would make the perfect gift a teenager or college student expressing interest in competitive racing.
But, then the Denali is not confined to race scenarios. The versatility of the bike allows it to be a solid choice for transportation around a city or a daily workout in the country.
When GMC designed the Denali Road Bike, they knew to make a product that would appeal to curious bikers-people who wanted a bike to dip their feet in the water, not jump right to an expensive custom bike.
Conclusion
Though more advanced riders should look elsewhere, new cyclists and non-picky motorists will want to consider the GMC Denali Road Bike.
The versatility and longevity of the bike are reason enough to have it as a backup bike in case something happens, or someone else wants to ride. The affordable price makes it a significant fine. The amount has been known to rise, so anyone considering getting a road bike should buy quickly.
