KHS ALITE 50 Review
- Price: $579
- Frame: Aluminum
- Wheels: 26″ Aluminum
- Gear: 3×7
What we like about it: Good for newbies, low maintenance costs.
What we don’t like about it: It’s heavier and slower.
Rating (4.7/5)
KHS Bicycle Company has been producing high-quality bikes for 45 years. Founded in 1974 as an American BMX brand, KHS has grown into a respected name in the cycling industry, offering a range of bikes including road bikes, mountain bikes, and electric bikes. The KHS Alite 50 is one of the popular mountain bike models produced by KHS. It was introduced as part of the Alite series, which has been in production since the 1990s. The Alite series was originally designed for off-road mountain biking, and the Alite 50 has been a popular entry-level choice for riders looking for a reliable and affordable mountain bike.
The KHS Alite 50 is a versatile hardtail mountain bike suitable for various riding conditions. Its aluminum frame and 26-inch wheels make it lightweight and easy to maneuver, while the 60mm-travel suspension fork provides a smooth ride on rough terrain. The bike’s 21-speed Shimano drivetrain and disc brakes enable it to handle steep hills and technical trails. The KHS Alite 50 is designed for off-road riding and performs well on less technical or challenging mountain trails. It’s a good choice for riders who want to explore the outdoors and ride on various terrains, from smooth dirt roads to rocky trails. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, the KHS Alite 50 is a reliable and affordable choice for all your mountain bike adventures.
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Riding Experience
I’ve been riding the KHS Alite 50 for a few months now, and it’s become my preferred bike for city commuting and weekend rides. I live in a bustling city, and biking is often faster than driving or taking public transportation. The lightweight aluminum frame and 60mm front suspension make it an ideal choice for riding on bumpy city roads and uneven sidewalks.
City Commute
One of my favorite city commuting routes is from my apartment in the downtown area to the famous Pike Place Market. This route takes me through some of the busiest streets in the city, and the Alite 50’s comfortable riding position allows me to easily weave through traffic. The bike’s 21-speed Shimano drivetrain makes it easy to tackle steep hills, while the disc brakes provide reliable stopping power when needed.
Weekend Riding
On weekends, I love taking my Alite 50 out to explore the natural beauty of the city. I easily booked accommodation on Skyscanner to ensure I can adequately prepare. One of my favorite places is Discovery Park, where there are miles of trails and stunning views of Puget Sound. The front suspension system makes for a smoother and more comfortable ride on the park’s uneven terrain. And the 26-inch wheels make it easy to navigate over rocks and roots.
Another great spot for weekend riding is the Burke-Gilman Trail. This 27-mile multi-use trail runs through several Seattle neighborhoods. The lightweight frame makes it easy for long-distance riding, while the front suspension system provides enough cushioning for a smooth ride. Along the way, there are several parks and scenic areas to stop and rest, including Gas Works Park and Lake Union Park.
Recently, I took my Alite 50 on a weekend trip to nearby Snoqualmie Falls. The town is home to the famous 268-foot waterfall, which attracts visitors from all over. The Alite 50’s versatility made it easy to ride on both paved roads and dirt paths. And the bike’s comfortable riding position made the 10-mile journey to the falls a breeze. When I arrived, I was able to easily park and lock up the bike and then enjoy the magnificent views of the waterfall.
Overall, I’m very impressed with the performance of the Alite 50 on city streets and light mountain trails. Its lightweight frame, comfortable riding position, and front suspension system make it an ideal choice for riders looking for a reliable and versatile mountain bike. Whether you’re commuting or exploring the natural beauty of the city, the KHS Alite 50 is a great choice for all your riding adventures.
Specification
The KHS Alite 50 comes with a reliable and functional component configuration, making it a great choice for entry-level mountain bikers. The lightweight 6061 aluminum frame provides a sturdy and durable foundation with replaceable derailleur hangers for easy maintenance. The wheelset features 26x32H aluminum rims and 14G black spokes with cassette.
The Shimano drivetrain includes a 21-speed gearing system, with Shimano Tourney rear derailleur and front derailleur, Shimano FC-TY301 crankset, and Shimano ST-EF500 shifters. The bike’s braking system features radius linear-pull disc brakes with 160mm rotors and ABS, providing reliable stopping power on any terrain.
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What do we like about it?
- Lightweight frame: The aluminum frame is light, making it easy to handle and maneuver.
- Comfortable riding position: The bike’s comfortable riding position makes it easy to ride for long periods without discomfort.
- Front Suspension: 60mm front suspension provides a smooth ride over rough terrain, absorbing shocks and bumps.
- Versatile Wheelset: 26x32H aluminum rims and 14G black spokes with aluminum front and rear disc hubs provide versatility on a variety of terrain.
- Reliable drivetrain: Shimano drivetrain is reliable and practical, with a 21-speed transmission system and Shimano Tourney rear and front derailleurs.
- Responsive shifting: Shimano ST-EF500 shifter is responsive and provides smooth shifting.
- Powerful braking system: Radius wire disc brakes with 160 mm rotors and ABS provide reliable braking capability in all weather conditions.
- Easy to maintain: Replaceable transmission mounts and cartridge-style bearing bases make maintenance easy.
- Affordable: It is an affordable entry-level mountain bike that offers excellent value for its price.
- Versatile Use: This bike is suitable for both city commuting and light weekend trail riding, making it a versatile choice for riders who want to explore a variety of terrain.
What don’t we like about it?
- Speed: Higher weight and slower speed.
FAQs
- Is KHS Alite 50 suitable for beginners?
Yes. This bike is an excellent entry-level mountain bike for beginners. It has a lightweight frame, a comfortable riding position, and a reliable component configuration that makes it easy to handle and ride.
- What type of riding is the KHS Alite 50 best suited for?
This bike is best suited for off-road riding on a variety of terrain. It is suitable for city commuting and weekend light trail riding.
- Is it possible to upgrade KHS Alite 50?
Yes, this bike can be upgraded with aftermarket components. Although for its price range, it already comes with reliable and practical components.
- Is the KHS Alite 50 suitable for riders of all heights?
It is available in four sizes: XS, S, M, and L, with bar lengths ranging from 60mm to 90mm. This makes it suitable for riders of different heights and sizes.
- Does the KHS Alite 50 come with pedals?
Yes, this bike comes with resin ATB platform pedals with boron axles. However, some riders may choose to upgrade to clipless pedals for a safer and more efficient ride.
KHS ALITE 50 Specs
Build
| Frame | 6061 Aluminum w/Replaceable Derailleur HangerColors: Black; Metallic Red; Ladies: Classic Blue |
| Fork | Zoom 386A, 60mm Travel |
| Rear Shock | n/a |
| Bottom Bracket | Cartridge Bearing |
| Headset | Threadless 1-1/8″ |
| Stem | KHS Aluminum Threadless 4-bolt, 31.8mm, XS-S:60mm, M-L:75mm, XL:90mm |
| Handlebar | Aluminum Riser, 31.8mm, 660mm x 20mm |
| Saddle | KHS Sport |
| Seatpost | KHS Aluminum Micro Adjust, 25.4mm |
| Pedals | Resin ATB Platform w/Boron Axle |
| Grips | Soft Kraton |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano Tourney, RD-TY300D |
| Front Derailleur | Shimano Tourney, FD-TY510 |
| Crank | Shimano FC-TY301, 48/38/28T, XS-S:170, M-XL:175 |
| Shifters | Shimano, ST-EF500 |
| Cassette | Shimano CS-HG200-7, 12-32, 7-Speed |
| Chain | KMC Z8.3 |
| Brakes | Radius Cable Disc BR-CX7, 160mm Rotors w/ ABS System Click for more information about BrakeSafe |
| Brake Levers | Shimano, ST-EF500 |
Wheels
| Rims | Aluminum, 26x32H |
| Spokes | 14G Black, 32×32 |
| Front Hub | Aluminum Disc QR |
| Rear Hub | Aluminum Disc, QR, Cassette |
| Tires | Mountain 26×2.1″ |
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Click view | Drivetrain | Frame material | Groupset |
| Giant Talon 1 | Click View | 1×10 | Aluminum alloy | Shimano Deore |
| Scott Aspect 970 | Click View | 3×7 | Aluminum alloy | Shimano Tourney, microSHIFT |
| Diamondback Overdrive 29 1 | Click View | 2×8 | Aluminum alloy | Altus, Shimano |
| Liv Tempt 5 | Click View | 2×7 | Aluminum alloy | Tourney, Shimano |
KHS ALITE 50 vs Giant Talon 1
Both the KHS Alite 50 and Giant Talon 1 are excellent entry-level mountain bikes with different component configurations. The KHS Alite 50 uses a rim brake system and a 21-speed shifting system, while the Giant Talon 1 uses hydraulic disc brakes, Shimano Deore components, and a 10-speed shifting system. The Talon 1 also has more wheel size options available, allowing riders to choose the best size for their height and riding style.
Compared to the rim brake system on the Alite 50, the hydraulic disc brakes on the Giant Talon 1 offer better braking performance and adjustability. The 10-speed shifting system on the Talon 1 also provides more gear options compared to the 21-speed system on the KHS Alite 50, making gear transitions smoother and more efficient on steep climbs.
However, the KHS Alite 50 remains a reliable choice for entry-level riders looking for an affordable and dependable mountain bike. The 21-speed shifting system provides sufficient gear options for most riding situations, and the rim brake system is easy to maintain and provides reliable braking performance. Additionally, the lightweight frame and comfortable riding position of the KHS Alite 50 make it a great choice for city commuting and light weekend off-road riding. Ultimately, the choice between these two bikes will depend on the rider’s preferences, budget, and intended use.
KHS ALITE 50 vs Scott Aspect 970
They are both entry-level mountain bikes with similar component configurations. However, the Scott Aspect 970 still has some key differences, including a more expensive price tag, oversized 29-inch wheels, and a cushioned 100mm travel. compared to the KHS Alite 50’s 60mm travel.
The large 29-inch wheels on the Scott Aspect 970 provide a smoother ride and better roll ability than the 26-inch wheels on the KHS Alite 50. the 100mm cushioned travel on the Scott Aspect 970 also provides better shock absorption, making it more suitable for rough terrain.
However, the KHS Alite 50 is a more affordable option for entry-level riders who may not want to invest in a more expensive mountain bike. It still offers a reliable and practical component configuration with a comfortable riding position and responsive shifting. In addition, the KHS Alite 50 is a versatile bike that is suitable for both city commuting and light weekend trail riding.
Learn More: Is the Scott Scale 940 A Great Value Hardtail Bike? [Scott Scale 940 Review]
KHS ALITE 50 vs Diamondback Overdrive 29 1
One of the main differences between these two bikes is the wheel size. The Diamondback Overdrive 29 1 has larger 29-inch wheels, which offer better rolling capability and higher stability compared to the 26-inch wheels on the KHS Alite 50. Additionally, the Diamondback Overdrive 29 1 has a 16-speed shifting system, which provides more gear options than the 21-speed system on the KHS Alite 50. The Overdrive 29 1’s 100mm front suspension travel also offers more suspension travel than the 60mm travel on the KHS Alite 50, making it more suitable for rough terrain.
On the other hand, the KHS Alite 50 is more affordable than the Diamondback Overdrive 29 1 and still offers a reliable and practical component configuration. the KHS Alite 50 has a comfortable riding position and responsive shifting, and its rim braking system is easy to maintain and provides reliable braking performance. In addition, the KHS Alite 50’s 60mm fork cushioning provides plenty of suspension for light trail riding and city commuting.
Learn more : Is Diamondback Hook Worth Buying? – [Diamondback Hook Review ]
KHS ALITE 50 vs Liv Tempt 5
The Liv Tempt 5 is designed specifically for women, with a smaller wheel size option and a women’s-specific saddle and handlebars. It also features 80mm of suspension travel, which is more than the 60mm of travel on the KHS Alite 50. The Liv Tempt 5 is also equipped with a Shimano Altus 8-speed shifting system, which provides more gear options than the 21-speed system on the KHS Alite 50.
On the other hand, the KHS Alite 50 is a unisex bike with an extra small size option, but it is not designed specifically for women. It has a lightweight aluminum frame, comfortable riding position, and reliable component configuration, making it suitable for both city commuting and light weekend off-road riding. Although it has less suspension travel at 60mm compared to the Liv Tempt 5, it is still sufficient for light off-road riding and city commuting.
Learn More: Is Liv Embolden 2 worth buying? [Liv Embolden 2 Review]
Summary
Above is our test of the KHS ALITE 50. It’s a great mountain trail bike for novice riders to do some bumpy road riding. And the ultra-low maintenance costs allow you to worry less about whether or not you’ll damage the bike. If you need a faster, higher-end ride quality, check out our higher-end bike reviews.
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