Here’s an updated look at the Schwinn Volare 1300 Road Bike, a 700 C drop-handlebar model positioned as a beginner/intermediate fitness road bike:
🚲 Key Specs & Features
- Frame & Fork: 700 C aluminum alloy frame with rigid fork, offering a lightweight yet basic structure weighing around 30–33 lb (~13.5 kg)
- Gearing: Shimano 14-speed drivetrain with A050 integrated shifters and Shimano rear derailleur (2×7‑speed setup), adequate for flats and mild hills
- Brakes: Alloy caliper rim brakes—easy to maintain but limited performance in wet or heavy braking conditions
- Wheels & Tires: 700 C wheels with 28 mm tires mounted on high-profile double-wall alloy rims, balancing speed and durability
- Fit & Size: Medium (≈18–21 in / 53–56 cm) suits riders about 5′4″–6′2″; available in multiple color options
- Assembly: Sold mostly assembled (~85%) with minimal tools required; ideal for basics but recommended professional tune-up for reliability
✅ Pros
- Great value for entry-level riders: Price range around USD $300–500 (or CAD ~$350), offering accessible entry into road riding
- Light and simple overall: Aluminum frame, alloy crank, and sport saddle reduce weight and offer decent comfort for casual fitness handling
- User-approved for casual commuting: Riders report it’s fun for flat areas or light training, especially after minor adjustments to brakes or saddle alignment
⚠️ Cons & Known Issues
- Quality control problems: Several users experienced bottom bracket creaking or crank failures—especially under added load or after rough rides
- Heavy frame and limited gear range: At ~30 lb and only 14 speeds, it’s underpowered for steep climbs or fast group riding compared to newer 11–12 speed bikes
- Brakes and drivetrain are basic: Caliper brakes are less effective in wet conditions; entry-tier component durability is limited and may require early replacement
- Not upgrade-friendly: Users caution against incremental upgrades, suggesting that replacing most components can cost more than buying a better bike outright
🗣 Community & Rider Feedback
From Reddit:
“The Schwinn is a perfectly fine bike for casual riding. However… it lacks disk brakes and isn’t geared for climbing… it weighs around 30 lbs which will slow you down.”
“The crank arm on the gear side…pedal threads completely stripped. Similar issues with three bikes—I think bottom bracket design is flawed.”
Also:
“Unless you are a capable mechanic… these often arrive in unsafe condition. Better to buy something used.”
📊 Summary Table
| Feature | Schwinn Volare 1300 |
|---|---|
| Weight | ~30–33 lb (~13.5 kg) |
| Frame/Fork | Aluminum frame, rigid fork |
| Gearing | Shimano A050 14‑speed (2×7) |
| Brakes | Alloy caliper rim brakes |
| Wheels/Tires | 700 C × 28 mm on alloy rims |
| Assembly | ~85% prebuilt; extra tuning recommended |
| Strengths | Entry-level price, lightweight, easy to maintain |
| Weaknesses | Basic components, limited support, known crank/B.B. issues |
| Best Use | Fitness riding, flat-area commuting, low-budget entry cycling |
💡 Final Verdict
The Schwinn Volare 1300 is a solid starter bike if you’re seeking an affordable way into road cycling or light commuting. With its light frame and straightforward Shimano setup, it offers decent functionality for leisure riding along flat roads.
However, its limitations—lack of disc brakes, heavier frame, basic 14‑speed gearing, and reported build weaknesses—make it less suitable for serious training, climbing terrain, or long-term use without planned upgrades. If you’re new to cycling or using it sparingly, it can serve well—but consider investing in a higher-tier used or name-brand model when you’re ready to step up.
