Many a time, deciding between two bicycles that fall in the same price range can be pretty daunting. Especially for a newbie who is looking to get the best bang for his buck. This is a common scenario in India where the craze for cycling is rapidly growing. One such example is the Btwin riverside 100 and the Btwin riverside 120, two decathlon bicycles, that have been vying for attention in stores…
So what is the major difference between the Btwin riverside 100 and the Btwin riverside 120 and which one should you go for? Most may think they look alike, feel the same on the test ride but just have different colours. Both have gears and the same seat. So how do you decide which one is better?
If these are questions you need answers to, allow us to help…
The Btwin Riverside 100 Vs 120: Which one is better?
Btwin Riverside 100 Vs 120 Frame:
Both the Btwin Riverside bicycles priced at a lower end are made from steel frames. Steel frames are durable and certainly good to last a lifetime. Provided you take good care of the bike frame. However, we think that the grey colour is what gives the Btwin Riverside 120 a better look and feel as compared to the Btwin Riverside 100.
Winner:
It’s a Tie.
Btwin Riverside 100 Gears:
The Btwin Riverside 100 being the second lowest bicycle in the Riverside family comes with a single chainring in the front and a 6-speed drivetrain at the rear.
Btwin Riverside 120 Gears:
On the other hand, the Riverside 120 is one level up as compared to the Riverside 100, it comes with a single chainring and an 8-speed drive train.
Winner:
According to us, both are really good for their price range. However, if you are looking for more gears, then the Riverside 120 wins here.
Btwin Riverside 100 Shifters:
Riverside 100 comes with microshifts, revoshift that requires to be twisted using your thumb and index fingers to change the gears. This type of shifting is ideal for beginners as well as average riders.
Btwin Riverside 120 Shifters:
Similarly, the Riverside 120 comes with Microsoft triggers shifts that work really well. These type of shifters provide you complete control on gear selection. Moreover, with the trigger shift, it’s simple to find the right gear while cycling.
Winner:
We feel the microshift trigger shifts are far better than twisting the throttle. Trigger shifts offer better control and precision when shifting gears. Also, we think they are better in the long run.
Btwin Riverside 100 Tyres:
Equipped with rubber tyres, the Riverside 100 rolls well on city roads and absorbs bumps while riding.
Btwin Riverside 120 Tyres:
The Riverside 120 comes with Nylon tyres that are far more superior than the standard rubber tyres on the Riverside 100. These tyres offer a better grip on any kind of surface and any weather condition. The sidewalls are far more flexible and offer a softer ride assuring more stable contact with the road surface.
Winner:
Clearly, the Nylon tyres of the Btwin Riverside 120 that are far more superior and durable than rubber tyres.
Btwin Riverside 100 & Btwin Riverside 120 Saddle:
Both the Riverside bikes come with the B’Twin Sport 100 Ergofit ergonomic foam saddle. If you’re getting back to cycling after long and are not used to sitting on the bike for over 30 minutes, the seat could turn out to be uncomfortable.
Winner:
To be honest, the foam seat on both the bikes is pretty standard. These seats do not offer much comfort, however, get the job done.
Btwin Riverside 100 & 120 Handlebar:
Similar to the seat, the Riverside 120 comes with a Semi-raised handlebar (620 mm) Height-adjustable stem, 70 mm long 1-1/8″ headset. The stem and handlebar of both bikes have been welded together as a single piece for greater security. Of course, it’s also a way to reduce the overall cost of manufacturing.
Winner:
This is a tie.
Our verdict: The Btwin Riverside 100 vs The Btwin Riverside 120
If you are low on budget and are looking to get back to cycling, consider the option for the Riverside 100. But if you are looking to ride more and get into cycling for fitness purpose, the 120 should be a better choice.
We hope the above comparison of the Btwin Riverside 100 Vs 120 has helped you differentiate between the two. Once you have decided which bike is ideal for you, make sure you go to the store and take a test ride. Also, refer to our definitive guide on how to buy a bicycle for adults, which will definitely help make your life easy.
Also, don’t forget to leave a comment below and let us know which riverside bike would you prefer.
However, if you are looking for some more interesting reads:
- Best Hybrid bicycles between 15000 – 30000
- Best cycles under 10000
- Best Road Bikes for Beginners
- Best MTB Cycles under 50000
Photos by: Percy Karat
Edited by: Tracy Alvares