MALVERN STAR FREEDOM W1 - MATTE BERRY

Malvern Star’s brand new Freedom W1 is lighter, sleeker and far more modern than its predecessor; bringing it in line with other sports hybrids such as the Liv Rove.

WHO IT’S FOR

As a sports hybrid, the new Freedom W1 is meant to be versatile.

It’s designed to be ridden on bike paths, rail trails, light dirt and gravel surfaces.

And it’s suitable for those riders who need a bike for general fitness rides, short commutes and family bike rides.

THE FRAME

Like most bikes at this price point, the Freedom W1 comes with an aluminium frame. There’s no difference between the W1 and the higher spec W2 frames.

The new Freedom frame does get a little more sophisticated though compared to last gen. Material has been removed in areas where it’s not required and added to areas where it is; creating a frame that’s not only lighter but responds and handles better.

The frame also features internal cable routing (it looks neater and cleaner) and mounting positions for a kickstand, mudguards and rear rack. See below how the cables enter the frame, so that they’re not exposed to the elements.

THE COMPONENTS

Starting at the front, the W1 comes with a suspension fork. The aim of the bike is to be versatile, and this opens up gravel and dirt paths, rail trails as well as sealed bike paths.

Another important aspect of having front suspension is it places you in a more relaxed riding position, compared to a bike without suspension. Because the bars are higher off the ground, so your hands are higher and back straighter.

Next we have brakes:

Mechanical disc brakes are better at stopping you than old-style caliper brakes. If you’re accustomed to cantilever or mechanical V-brakes (linear pull brakes), these disc brakes will feel like an upgrade.

They deliver more power and you have more control slowing the bike down. This feature will be especially beneficial to riders who live in hilly areas or will still ride in damp and wet conditions.

Gears are important too:

The more gears, the better quality they will be. The W1 uses an 8 speed drivetrain which puts it squarely in the mid-range category.

Components are sourced from microSHIFT.

So many new bikes are now coming equipped with microSHIFT now and it has been worth the change. It’s as good as (if not better) Shimano at the entry level and mid-range level.

3 front gears are paired to 8 rear gears.

microSHIFT’s thumb-tap shifter is ergonomic and is very easy to use. The Freedom W1’s gear range is designed for flat, undulating and moderately steep inclines.

Aluminium double wall rims deliver strength without adding excessive weight. A 32-hole rim and hub also ensures the wheels will last, especially for those who intend any touring adventures or commuters using the Freedom W1 as a workhorse.

The tyre tread has been chosen by the Star to deliver grip in a variety of surface conditions. A smooth centre tread results in minimal rolling resistance in a straight line. Grooves in the tyre help to channel away water. And there’s enough tread to corner fine on smooth, compacted gravel and dirt.