2014 Schwinn Rocket 2 Review

Schwinn jumps in the 27.5-inch-wheel game for 2014 with its value-oriented, $750 Rocker 2. The butted aluminum frame features a tapered headtube and bowed seatstays for a smoother ride. It’s built with a 100mm-travel Suntour XCM fork, Shimano Alivio drivetrain, WTB Wolverine tires and Tektro HTC 330 hydraulic disc brakes.

For starters, Rocket 2 features a double-butted aluminum frame--the same technology and material as higher-end bikes, and an SR Suntour 100mm travel fork create a fully functioning platform for off-road riding that delivers on performance, efficiency, and strength. Rocket 2's 27.5" wheel size is among mountain biking's newer innovations. Originally a 26" wheel discipline, mountain bike makers have been making 29" wheeled bikes, and more recently, 27.5" wheeled bikes. The larger wheel size surmounts obstacles more easily, has lower rolling resistance (as in, they are faster), and situates the rider closer to the wheels for a more balanced ride.