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cubsala Freestyle BMX Bike Review

Cubsala Freestyle BMX Bike, covering its design, specs, performance, pros and cons, target riders, and buying advice.

Cubsala Freestyle BMX Bike — Comprehensive Review and Buyer’s Guide

Introduction

The Cubsala Freestyle BMX Bike has gained recognition as an affordable yet capable BMX bike designed for riders interested in freestyle tricks, street riding, skatepark sessions, and casual cruising. Whether you’re a beginner wanting to learn the basics or an intermediate rider looking for a reliable bike, the Cubsala BMX offers a compelling package that balances durability, style, and value.

This extensive review covers everything you need to know about the Cubsala Freestyle BMX Bike — from frame construction and components to ride performance and user feedback. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of whether this bike fits your BMX goals and budget.

1. Brand Background: Cubsala

While not as globally renowned as some legacy BMX brands, Cubsala has steadily built a reputation in the BMX community for delivering well-designed, budget-friendly bikes. Their focus is on producing BMX bikes that cater to youth and beginner riders without sacrificing essential performance features.

The Cubsala Freestyle BMX Bike reflects this ethos: it’s designed to be tough enough for park and street riding while being accessible to riders just starting out or those who want a solid, no-nonsense BMX at a good price.

2. Design and Frame

Frame Material and Build

  • The Cubsala BMX features a chromoly steel frame, a key highlight for its price segment.
  • Chromoly (chromium-molybdenum) steel is known for its excellent strength-to-weight ratio and durability.
  • This means the frame can withstand the impacts and stresses of freestyle tricks, jumps, and rough landings without excessive weight.

Frame Geometry

  • The geometry of the Cubsala BMX is tailored for freestyle riding:
    • Top tube length generally around 20.5 inches — standard for many freestyle BMX bikes.
    • Short chainstays enhance maneuverability and make performing tricks easier.
    • A slightly steep head tube angle improves responsiveness in steering.
  • The overall design supports both street riding and park/street tricks.

Finish and Style

  • The bike is available in a variety of colors and graphic designs, often featuring bold, eye-catching decals.
  • The paint finish is typically powder-coated, which helps resist scratches and rust.
  • A sleek, aggressive look matches its freestyle purpose.

3. Components and Specifications

Fork

  • The fork is made from chromoly steel, matching the frame for strength and durability.
  • It features a 1 1/8-inch integrated headset for smooth steering.

Handlebars and Stem

  • Chromoly handlebars with a mid to high-rise design give riders good leverage for tricks.
  • The stem is front-load style with a secure clamp system to hold the bars steady during aggressive riding.

Wheels and Tires

  • The bike sports 20-inch double-wall alloy rims, offering strength without excessive weight.
  • Tires are 2.3 inches wide, knobby BMX tires designed for grip on multiple surfaces — dirt, concrete, and skatepark ramps.
  • The hubs use sealed cartridge bearings to reduce maintenance and improve wheel spin efficiency.

Drivetrain

  • Single-speed drivetrain keeps the bike simple and reliable.
  • A chromoly 3-piece crankset provides durability and efficient power transfer.
  • A 25-tooth front chainring combined with a 9-tooth rear sprocket provides a good balance of acceleration and speed.
  • The chain is heavy-duty BMX style, resistant to stretching and breaking.

Brakes

  • The bike features a rear U-brake system, providing reliable stopping power with good modulation.
  • Brake levers have adjustable reach to fit different hand sizes.
  • Some models may include a brake cable detangler (gyro) for handlebar spins, though this depends on the exact variant.

Seat and Seatpost

  • The seat is slim and padded with a durable cover.
  • Adjustable seatpost allows riders to set the height for comfort and riding style.
  • The seat clamp is sturdy to keep the seat in place during tricks and jumps.

Pedals

  • Composite or nylon platform pedals offer a good grip surface and are lightweight.
  • Pins may be included or replaceable to improve foot traction.

4. Performance and Ride Quality

Handling and Control

  • The Cubsala BMX bike is agile and responsive, thanks to its chromoly frame and optimized geometry.
  • The relatively short wheelbase and low standover height make it easy to maneuver during tricks like bunny hops, manuals, and tailwhips.
  • Handlebars provide solid leverage, making control in the air and on landings reliable.

Speed and Acceleration

  • The drivetrain gearing strikes a good balance, enabling quick acceleration out of turns and jumps.
  • It’s not designed for high-speed racing but performs well enough for street and park riding.

Comfort and Riding Feel

  • While BMX bikes are not typically designed for comfort over long distances, the Cubsala provides sufficient padding and seating comfort for typical BMX use.
  • The frame absorbs some vibration, helping reduce fatigue.
  • Pedals and grips maintain foot and hand stability during tricks.

Durability and Reliability

  • The chromoly frame and fork ensure that the bike stands up well to repeated impacts and abuse.
  • Sealed bearings in wheels and headset minimize maintenance and extend component life.
  • Tires hold up well on varied surfaces and resist punctures reasonably well.

5. Who is the Cubsala Freestyle BMX Bike For?

  • Beginner to intermediate BMX riders.
  • Youth riders transitioning from smaller bikes to a full 20-inch BMX.
  • Riders interested in freestyle, park, and street riding.
  • Those seeking a budget-friendly bike without sacrificing chromoly durability.
  • Casual riders who want a stylish, tough BMX bike for urban riding.

6. Sizing and Fit

  • The Cubsala BMX is designed with standard 20-inch wheels, fitting most riders from about 4’6” up to 6’0” tall.
  • Adjustable seat and handlebars let riders customize fit.
  • Ideal for teens, preteens, and smaller adults.

7. Assembly and Maintenance

Assembly

  • The bike usually arrives partially assembled.
  • Final setup includes installing handlebars, pedals, seat, and front wheel.
  • A user manual and tools may be included, but professional assembly is recommended for novices to ensure safety and proper function.

Maintenance Tips

  • Keep the chain lubricated to avoid rust and ensure smooth pedaling.
  • Regularly inspect and adjust brakes.
  • Check tire pressure and inspect for wear or damage.
  • Tighten bolts regularly, especially on the stem, handlebars, and crank arms.
  • Clean the bike after exposure to water or dirt to prevent corrosion.

8. Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Chromoly Frame and Fork: High strength and relatively lightweight.
  • Durable Components: Chromoly cranks, sealed bearings, alloy rims.
  • Good Value: Affordable price for a solid freestyle BMX.
  • Versatile Tires: Suitable for various surfaces.
  • Responsive Handling: Geometry tuned for tricks and street riding.
  • Stylish Design: Bold colors and quality finish.

Cons

  • Weight: Slightly heavier than high-end pro-level BMX bikes.
  • Basic Seat: Designed for tricks, not long-distance comfort.
  • Assembly Required: May be difficult for beginners.
  • Single-Speed: Limits terrain versatility but standard for BMX.
  • Brake Setup: No front brake and rear U-brake only.

9. Comparison with Other BMX Bikes

Cubsala vs. Mongoose Legion

  • Both have chromoly frames; Mongoose is more widely known.
  • Cubsala tends to be slightly more budget-friendly.
  • Mongoose may offer more model variety and parts availability.

Cubsala vs. Redline BMX

  • Redline focuses more on race and pro-level BMX.
  • Cubsala is freestyle-oriented and affordable.
  • Redline may have more advanced components but at a higher price.

10. Price and Value

  • The Cubsala Freestyle BMX Bike typically retails between $300 to $400, offering excellent value for a chromoly freestyle BMX.
  • It’s a great choice for riders who want durability and performance without spending a pro-level budget.

11. User Reviews and Feedback

What Riders Like

  • Riders praise the Cubsala for its solid frame and reliability.
  • Good for learning and progressing BMX tricks.
  • Positive comments on styling and component quality for the price.
  • Sealed bearings and chromoly components reduce maintenance concerns.

Common Issues

  • Some users note the bike’s weight compared to pro BMX models.
  • Assembly instructions can be unclear for beginners.
  • Limited gearing options restrict use on steep or varied terrain.

12. Upgrades and Customization

  • Pedals: Upgrading to metal or wider platform pedals with pins.
  • Brakes: Adding a gyro system for handlebar spins.
  • Tires: Switching to slick or specialized tires for specific terrain.
  • Seat: Upgrading to a more padded or ergonomically shaped seat.
  • Handlebars and grips: Custom grips for better comfort and control.

13. Safety Tips

  • Always wear a helmet and protective gear (pads, gloves).
  • Check brakes before every ride.
  • Learn safe falling and landing techniques.
  • Practice in safe, designated areas before riding on streets.

Conclusion

The Cubsala Freestyle BMX Bike stands out as an affordable, durable, and stylish BMX bike ideal for beginners and intermediate riders focused on freestyle, park, and street riding. With its chromoly frame and solid components, it offers a great foundation for progressing in BMX skills while maintaining a manageable price point.

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