The best mountain bikes of the moment
Decathlon is one of the leaders in the sale of affordable electric bikes. In order to guide you to make the right choice, we have made a selection of the best references.
The French group Decathlon has very quickly established itself as one of the references in the world of cycling, accessible to the general public. Decathlon is particularly successful thanks to the Rockrider range that it markets. This is where the Rockrider ST 100 comes in, an ideal mountain bike for your first rides. Efficient and robust, it is suitable for both men and women. The purpose of this article is to introduce you to the ST 100 Rockrider, but also to talk about the electric versions that come out of it.
Rockrider in electric version
Established in the world of cycling for many years, the Decathlon brand is experiencing a relentless craze. The latter has managed to establish itself in a market that is aimed at the general public. It has been able to differentiate itself from other brands by offering products adapted to all types of practices.
Moreover, it continues in this step by putting from now on on the sale of electric assisted bicycles. The electric bike is an essential ally for your daily commute, your walks or even for your more eventful excursions.
What is Rockrider ?
The Rockrider range lists all the mountain bikes offered by the group. Indeed, since the year 2019, Decathlon has decided to divide the ranges under several brands. Formerly known as Btwin Rockrider, the brand has simplified everything so that the consumer can find it more easily.
It is true that at the beginning all the bikes sold by the company appeared under the name Btwin, which made it difficult for the consumer to find his way around.
Today, this debate is no longer, because the latter has taken things in hand and has made this important but necessary change. Future users can rest assured that even if the name changes, the quality of the products remains the same.
A new signature
As announced above, the Tricolor group has decided to make things clearer by allowing consumers to clearly distinguish the different ranges it offers. Thus, they can easily differentiate between mountain bikes, city bikes and road bikes.
In the past, for all the variants, we heard about Btwin. Even if their current names were already present but located just after it. So it was difficult to find your way around. Nevertheless, today this name is still present in one of the ranges offered by the company. It is certainly intended to reassure consumers. This name is synonymous with quality, aesthetics and affordable price.
The different ranges offered by Decathlon
As we have already mentioned in the first part, Decathlon offers consumers a wide range of products that meet the majority of needs in terms of cycling mobility. Indeed, here are the 4 ranges that the group offers:
The name Rockrider is thus assimilated to the range of bicycles known as all-terrain (cross-country) proposed by Decathlon. They exist in both classic and electric versions.
Presentation of the ST 100 Rockrider bike
The Rockrider ST 100 is the first entry-level bike signed Rockrider and no longer Btwin. It comes for the moment between the Rockrider 340 and the Rockrider 520. This small mountain bike is entirely designed and developed in France, in Lille more precisely.
If you are a mountain biker looking for comfort, efficiency, and sturdiness, then the ST 100 Rockrider is made for you. It will allow you to be efficient and for a relatively reasonable price.
Technical specifications of the Rockrider ST 100
Before buying the Rockrider ST 100 bike, it is important to learn more about its features.
Rockrider ST 100: for whom ?
It is studied in its smallest details. With a very pronounced top tube slope, also called sloping, the Rockrider offers a very wide size range. Its CGF frame is not only light and comfortable, it is also mixed.
In fact, the Rockrider ST 100 is available with the same frame in a women’s version. The saddle is adapted, the handlebars are narrower, the stem shorter, the fork with a softer spring, and finally, the brake levers closer together.
If, however, as a woman you choose the men’s model, and you want to enjoy even more comfort, we recommend buying the women’s sport saddle 500. Specially adapted to the female morphology.
Available in several sizes
For the Rockrider ST 100 bike, there are several sizes available:
- XS: between 1.40 m and 1.54 m
- S: between 1.55 m and 1.64 m
- M: between 1.65 m and 1.74 m
- L : between 1.75 m and 1.84 m
- XL : between 1.85 m and 2.00 m
If you hesitate between two sizes, we advise you to choose the larger size. In order to adjust the ST 100 Rockrider bike to your height and body type, it is recommended that you touch the ground with the tip of your feet when you are sitting on the saddle. To adjust the saddle, your knee should be slightly bent with your foot on the pedal in the down position.
… Its weight
As for the weight of this Rockrider ST 100 mountain bike, you should know that it is not excessive, on the contrary.
- XS: 140-154 cm for 15.3 kg
- S : 155-164 cm for 15.4 kg
- M : 165-174 cm for 15.5 kg
- L : 175-184 cm for 15.6 kg
- XL : 185-200 cm for 15.8 kg
It can support a load of up to 120 kg. This includes the weight of the user and the equipment he/she is carrying, including of course the weight of the Decathlon mountain bike itself.
Front and rear suspension
The 80 mm front suspension will allow you to cross your first obstacles with peace of mind on slightly uneven trails. Its mechanical spring is a guarantee of reliability. Above all, the hydraulic fork is easy to maintain. To adjust the hardness, it is very easy thanks to a simple knob.
First of all, you should know that the ST 100 Rockrider has no rear suspension. Indeed, it is a semi-rigid mountain bike, ideal to begin and launch you in your first excursions. Nevertheless, if you want to gain in comfort, you should know that this bike is also available with full suspension, so with a rear shock.
You will benefit from a lighter and more maneuverable Rockrider ST 100 bike and you will lose less energy on flat terrain.
Derailleur and transmission
You will be able to count on a triple chainring transmission with 22, 32 and 42 teeth. What does that mean? Well, the ST 100 Rockrider has three 7-speed chainrings, for a total of 21 gears to accompany you on your rides.
You will also have two easy-to-use MICROSHIFT MS25 wristbands on the handlebars. On the left, you can control the ascent and descent. On the right, the gears, you adapt more precisely your effort. Finally, the Rockrider ST 100 is equipped with a MICROSHIFT FD-M20 front and MICROSHIFT RD-M25 rear derailleur.
V-brake disc brakes
What could be better in the cycling world than hydraulic disc brakes? Indeed, you will be able to count on a powerful and progressive braking thanks to the two V-Brake pads. These brakes will respond to any weather conditions or type of ground you ride on.
You will be able to operate them in a very simple way thanks to the aluminium brake levers present in front of the handlebars. Only two fingers are needed to brake. We advise you to check the wear of the skates once a year. If the streaks disappear, do not hesitate to make an appointment at your shop.
27.5” wheels and tires for dry terrain
The first mountain bike rides are on dry ground. The wheels of the Rockrider ST 100 are made of aluminum, so they are tolerant and robust, and ensure that you can overcome your first obstacles without fear. Small rocks, roots, holes and even bumps.
The rims are 27.5″ in diameter (26″ on the XS size) with 28 double-wall spokes. The perfect compromise between performance and comfort. You can count on DRY 27.5 x 2.0 tires. Their performance is optimized thanks to a very rolling central part, while their lateral studs ensure a good grip in turns.
The price of the Rockrider ST 100 mountain bike
To own the ST 100 Rockrider bike, you will have to count 239 €. It has a good quality-price ratio. The brand is known and recognized for the products it sells. When you buy a Rockrider ST 100, you are investing in a competent brand whose reputation is well established.
Accessories and warranty
With this Rockrider ST 100 mountain bike you can count on multiple accessories. Indeed, it comes with a chainring protection to avoid dirtying your outfit, a bell, lights, wheel reflectors and pedals.
If this is not enough for you, the frame is compatible with a basic stand, a bottle cage, a special mountain bike mudguard kit, a saddle bag, a luggage rack or a baby seat, from size S.
Decathlon also offers a guarantee for the products it sells. Indeed, spare parts are available for 2 years. The frame, stem and handlebars are guaranteed for life.
Maintenance, transport and storage
Decathlon offers a free service within 6 months of the purchase of this ST 100 bike. In terms of maintenance, the Rockrider ST 100 does not require any specific treatment. In fact, a little sponge and water after each ride is appreciated. After washing, remember to use a dry cloth to remove any traces of moisture.
To avoid getting your car dirty, a bike rack can be an easy way to transport your ST 100 Rockrider. In terms of storage, be sure to leave it in a dry, temperate place away from any corrosive products or salty atmosphere. A nut on the back of the bike secures the ST 100 Rockrider bike to limit the risk of theft.
The Rockrider ST 100 bike against the competition
The bicycle market is increasingly competitive. Brands are all looking to differentiate themselves from each other by offering more innovative products. But what about Decathlon? Well, despite the current context, the brand has decided to build on its know-how by offering products that are always in line with their philosophy.
That is to say, to address as many people as possible by offering affordable but quality mountain bikes! Despite this, some brands stand out and place themselves on this growing market.
The French brand now has several models in this range, from children’s models to adult models. You can find our complete tests on the Rockrider 340, the 520 and 540.
And why not switch to electric ?
At the moment, the electric bike is very popular. It occupies an increasingly important place in the cycling market. Moreover, it is now a highly sought after product.
Does the ST 100 Rockrider exist in electric ?
If this is an obvious choice for you, you should know that Decathlon offers this possibility to its customers. Indeed, the company offers all kinds of electrically assisted bikes. So whether you are looking for a city bike, a mountain bike, a road bike or a mountain bike, there is bound to be a product that suits you in this store.
The prices do not get out of hand as this company wishes to respond to the mobility and budgetary problems of its consumers. You can then take more pleasure, while contemplating the landscapes during your outings. The latter will also be extended thanks to its electric assistance.
Purchase aids
Well, even if the purchase of an electric bike can sometimes be a real obstacle course, some elements can convince you to take the plunge. Indeed, don’t be afraid of the bill, on the contrary. As for electric cars, the State, as well as the regions and the municipalities, have set up subsidies to facilitate the acquisition of these new means of transport.
Some of them can even be cumulated and thus make the basic investment less important for the consumer. To give you an idea, we can give you the following figures:
National aid: equal to 20% of the purchase price including tax or 200€ maximumRegional aid: variable according to the regions, between 150€ and 600€.Communal aid: depends on the communes. In Paris, for the purchase of an electric bike you can receive up to 400€.
National aid: equal to 20% of the purchase price including tax or 200€ maximumRegional aid: variable according to the regions, between 150€ and 600€.Communal aid: depends on the communes. In Paris, for the purchase of an electric bike you can receive up to 400€.
- National aid: equal to 20% of the purchase price including tax or 200€ maximum
- Regional aid: variable according to the regions, between 150€ and 600€.
- Communal aid: depends on the communes. In Paris, for the purchase of an electric bike you can receive up to 400€.
Thus, the final amount you will have to pay for your electric bicycle will be significantly reduced. Nevertheless, these data are for information purposes only. It is therefore advisable to find out more about the eligibility details and access conditions.
To find out if you can benefit from these subsidies, we advise you to get in touch with your local authorities, or simply to visit the government website. If you want to know more, you can also consult our article dedicated to the different bonuses available for the purchase of an electrically assisted bicycle or cargo bike.
To conclude
The Rockrider ST 100 is a complete product that will surely seduce you. Its various on-board equipments and its aluminum frame are key elements put forward by Decathlon. It benefits from a good quality-price ratio and its design is refined. Nevertheless, the electric versions will allow you to benefit from the advantages of the Rockrider ST 100, but with a big plus, namely the assistance.
