Polygon SISKIU D7 Review
- Price: $1849
- Frame: Aluminum
- Tires: SCHWALBE NOBBY NIC PERFORMANCE 27.5 “x2.25” / 29 “x2.25”
- Gear: 1×11
What we like about it: Aggressive geometry and slack head tube angle that help riders tackle any terrain.
What we didn’t like about it: Some cables generate noise when riding on extremely rough terrain.
Rating: (4.7/5)
Lately, I’ve been captivated by the atmosphere of trail riding and wanted to dive in. I was looking for a full-suspension mountain bike suitable for beginners and stumbled upon the Polygon SISKIU D7. I decided to test it out, and I was looking forward to seeing its performance.
In the following sections, we’ll analyze the riding experience, key features, components, specifications, and other versions of the Polygon SISKIU D7. Additionally, we’ll compare it to a few bike models later in the article. If you’re interested in more bike reviews, feel free to follow us.
Riding Experience
To thoroughly test the Polygon SISKIU D7, I booked a flight and reserved a hotel at the IHG, making my way to Highland Mountain Bike Park.
At the park, I selected the ODB trail, a downhill route spanning 1348ft with a total elevation drop of 244ft. It featured both uphill and steep downhill sections, along a narrow path only suitable for bikes. The road was laden with protruding rocks, incredibly rugged and demanded exceptional control skills, posing a significant challenge for my riding.
Trail Riding
As I set off from the starting point, I began my ride. Starting with a downhill segment, I maneuvered the ENTITY XPERT handlebar, where I encountered some considerable vibrations due to the downhill terrain. However, the 120mm front travel and 120mm rear travel provided decent suspension, effectively minimizing the impact, and I didn’t experience substantial jolts. Holding onto the ENTITY XPERT handlebar firmly, I managed to maintain control and avoid mishaps, ensuring my safety.
When I encountered uphill portions, I adjusted the SHIMANO DEORE RD-M5100 DIRECT ATTACH 11-SPEED to the lowest gear ratio, allowing for an effortless climb. This approach enabled me to stay stable during ascents while effectively distributing my energy throughout the ride.
Navigating through bends was the most challenging aspect of the ODB trail. I controlled the ENTITY XPERT handlebar and sat on the ENTITY VOID SADDLE, adjusting my center of gravity to maneuver through turns. Drawing from my extensive biking experience, I smoothly find the optimal entry point for each corner. Then, pedaling on the Alloy flat pedal, I successfully navigate through every bend with excellence. Even in unexpected scenarios, the SHIMANO MT200 HYDRAULIC DISC BRAKE showcased exceptional braking capabilities, erasing any concerns about my safety.
Is That All?
To enhance my performance on this intricate route, I opted for the SCHWALBE NOBBY NIC PERFORMANCE 27.5″x2.25″ tires. These tires proved incredibly effective in all weather conditions and terrains. I could feel the excellent traction provided by the shoulder knobs, offering strong power in complex terrains. The unique central thread arrangement allowed for prompt braking, ensuring my safety.
Additionally, the ENTITY VOID SADDLE delivered exceptional comfort for my hips, alleviating pressure points. Its central recess effectively eased pressure on sensitive areas. Sitting on it was incredibly comfortable, enabling me to focus better on the trail ride.
Specifications
The Polygon SISKIU D7 is an exceptional full-suspension trail mountain bike. It features an aluminum frame, equipped with a ROCKSHOX RECON SILVER RL fork and ROCKSHOX DELUXE SELECT PLUS rear shock. With 120mm front travel and 120mm rear travel, its suspension provides solid performance. The bike is also equipped with a SHIMANO DEORE RD-M5100 DIRECT ATTACH 11-SPEED rear derailleur and a 1×11 drivetrain, offering reliable gear shifting.
Moreover, the bike comes with SHIMANO MT200 HYDRAULIC DISC BRAKE, delivering impressive braking performance to ensure rider safety. It’s fitted with SCHWALBE NOBBY NIC PERFORMANCE 27.5″x2.25″ / 29″x2.25″ tires, offering riders versatility in choosing between two tire sizes. The Polygon SISKIU D7 also features Alloy flat pedals for rider convenience.
Video
Other Versions
After undergoing numerous tests, our understanding of this bike has deepened. It’s a highly commendable full-suspension trail mountain bike.
However, many riders have specific requirements regarding performance and components. Thus, we conducted further investigations by examining similar bikes.
Polygon SISKIU N9
The Polygon SISKIU N9 weighs 18.1kg, slightly heavier than the Polygon SISKIU D7’s 15.7kg. Heavier bikes tend to provide a more stable ride but also generate more resistance. The Polygon SISKIU N9 is equipped with a 1×12 drivetrain, offering a wider gear range and smoother operation compared to the Polygon SISKIU D7’s 1×11 drivetrain.
Furthermore, the Polygon SISKIU N9 features 170mm front travel and 170mm rear travel, providing superior suspension performance compared to the Polygon SISKIU D7’s 120mm front travel and 120mm rear travel. The Polygon SISKIU N9 can reach speeds of up to 42km/h, while the Polygon SISKIU D7 tops out at 38km/h. Additionally, the Polygon SISKIU N9 boasts a stack/reach ratio of 1.416, whereas the Polygon SISKIU D7’s stack/reach ratio is 1.36. A larger stack/reach ratio contributes to better flexibility, ensuring a more comfortable ride.
It’s worth noting that the Polygon SISKIU N9 comes at a $1550 premium over the Polygon SISKIU D7. Therefore, if budget is a concern, the Polygon SISKIU D7 would be a suitable recommendation. However, for those seeking superior features, the Polygon SISKIU N9 is an excellent choice.
What do we like about it?
- Aggressive geometry and slack head tube angle help riders tackle any terrain.
- The Siskiu D provides powerful traction to the rear tire, aiding rider control on both uphills and downhills.
- The combination of 120mm rear travel and the One-Piece Linkage System effectively reduces the lateral flex of the rear triangle, enhancing suspension performance.
- The Wheel Fit Size System helps riders fit the entire bike better, offering more efficient riding.
What don’t we like about it?
- Some cables generate noise when riding on extremely rough terrain, which may not meet the needs of certain riders.
FAQ
- Is this bike suitable for beginners?
This bike is suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
- Can wider tires be used on this bike?
The bike comes equipped with 2.25″ width tires, which provide the best riding experience. We do not recommend using wider tires.
- Can the length of the rear travel be increased on this bike?
It is not possible to increase the length of the rear travel. Doing so would exert greater stress on the frame, leading to more wear and tear.
- How do I choose the right size?
The size chart is below:
These sizes are general guidelines, and the right size can vary from person to person. The best way to find your size is to try it out.
| Rider height | SIZE |
| 4’11” – 5’5″ | SM |
| 4’3″ – 5’9″ | MD |
| 5’7″ – 6’1″ | LG |
| 5’11” – 6’5″ | XL |
Specs
Build
| Frame | aluminum BB Standard: BSA, 68mm, Threaded Color: Bitter Lemon – Black |
| Fork | rockshox recon silver rl 120mm trail |
| Rear Shock | ROCKSHOX DELUXE SELECT PLUS E2E: 190x45MM |
| Bottom Bracket | bsa thundered 68/73mm |
| Headset | THREADLESS ZERO STACK HEADSET, ZS 44/28.6 | ZS 56/40 |
| Stem | ENTITY XPERT, ALLOY, E: 40MM, B: 31.8MM, R/D: 7DEGREE |
| Handlebar | ENTITY XPERT, ALLOY, W: 780MM, BB: 31.8MM, R/D: 30MM, B: 6DEGREE |
| Saddle | ENTITY VOID SADDLE, ø 7mm |
| Seatpost | TRANZX DROPPER 150MM (27.5″) / 170MM (29″), DXL: 30.9 x 459 (27.5″) / 499MM (29″) |
| Pedals | Alloy flat pedal |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | SHIMANO DEORE RD-M5100 DIRECT ATTACH 11-SPEED |
| Crank | SHIMANO FC-M5100 SINGLE 32T TWO PIECE CRANK, 170MM (S,M) / 175MM (L,XL) |
| Shifters | SHIMANO DEORE SL-M5100, 11-SPEED TRIGGER |
| Cassette | shimano deore cs-m5100 11-51t 11-speed |
| Chain | KMC X11-1 |
| Brakes | SHIMANO MT200 HYDRAULIC DISC BRAKE |
| Brake Levers | SHIMANO MT200 HYDRAULIC DISC BRAKE |
Wheels
| Rims | alloy door wall 584 / 622-30 32h for tyre 584 / 622-54/76 |
| Spokes | Stainless Steel Spokes |
| Front Hub | F: SHIMANO HB-MT400 THRU AXLE 15x100mm 32H CENTER LOCK / R: SHIMANO FH-MT400 THRU AXLE 12x148mm 32H CENTER LOCK |
| Rear Hub | F: SHIMANO HB-MT400 THRU AXLE 15x100mm 32H CENTER LOCK / R: SHIMANO FH-MT400 THRU AXLE 12x148mm 32H CENTER LOCK |
| Tires | SCHWALBE NOBBY NIC PERFORMANCE 27.5 “x2.25” / 29 “x2.25” |
| Disk Rotors | rotor: font:180mm rear:160mm center-lock |
Comparison Table
| Bikes | Click view | Tires | Drivetrain | Frame Material | Groupset |
| Canyon Neuron 5 | Click View | Schwalbe Nobby Nic 29×2.4 | 1 x 12 | Aluminum | SRAM SX Eagle |
| Giant Stance 29 2 | Click View | Maxxis Forekaster 29×2.35 | 1 x 10 | Aluminum | Shimano Deore, Praxis |
| Kona Big Honzo | Click View | WTB Ranger 27.5×2.8″ | 1 x 11 | Aluminum | Shimano Deore |
| Cannondale Habit HT 2 | Click View | (F) WTB Vigilante, 29×2.5″ (R) WTB Vigilante, 29×2.4″ | 1 x 10 | Aluminum | microSHIFT Advent X |
Polygon SISKIU D7 VS Canyon Neuron 5
The Polygon SISKIU D7 weighs 34.6 lbs, slightly heavier than the Canyon Neuron 5(33.3 lbs). Heavier bikes offer a smoother ride, but they also come with greater riding resistance. On the other hand, lighter bikes provide more agility. The Canyon Neuron 5 is equipped with a 1×12 drivetrain, which offers a wider gear range and smoother operation compared to the Polygon SISKIU D7’s 1×11 drivetrain.
Furthermore, the Canyon Neuron 5 features 140mm front travel, providing better suspension performance than the Polygon SISKIU D7’s 120mm front travel. However, the Canyon Neuron 5 doesn’t have rear travel, so the Polygon SISKIU D7’s 120mm rear travel offers superior suspension.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a more advanced gearing system, I would recommend the Canyon Neuron 5. If you prefer to have both front and rear travel, the Polygon SISKIU D7 would be the better choice for you.
Polygon SISKIU D7 vs Giant Stance 29 2
The Polygon SISKIU D7 comes equipped with two wheel sizes, 27.5″ and 29″. The 29″ wheels offer better rolling capability, while the 27.5″ provides decent agility. The Polygon SISKIU D7 offers riders more choices. Additionally, it features a 1×11 drivetrain, which is superior to the 1×10 drivetrain of the Giant Stance 29 2. The 1×11 drivetrain offers a wider gear range and smoother operation.
Furthermore, the Giant Stance 29 2 has 130mm front travel and 120mm rear travel, providing better suspension performance compared to the Polygon SISKIU D7’s 120mm front and rear travel. However, the Polygon SISKIU D7 is equipped with Alloy flat pedals, while the Giant Stance 29 2 comes with Giant Sole-O grips.
So, if you’re looking for better suspension performance, the Giant Stance 29 2 will meet your needs. If you desire more options for wheel size, the Polygon SISKIU D7 is a great choice for you.
Learn More: Is Giant Stance 29 2 Worth Buying? [ Review]
Polygon SISKIU D7 VS Kona Big Honzo
The Kona Big Honzo is a hardtail bike with only 130mm of front travel. While its suspension performance is slightly better than the Polygon SISKIU D7’s 120mm front travel, the Polygon SISKIU D7 is a full-suspension bike with 120mm of rear travel. The experience provided by full suspension is generally more favorable.
Additionally, the Kona Big Honzo has a Stack/Reach Ratio of 1.35, while the Polygon SISKIU D7 has a Stack/Reach Ratio of 1.32. A larger Stack/Reach Ratio offers better reach and stretch, providing a more comfortable riding experience. The Kona Big Honzo is equipped with Kona JS2 pedals and Kona Key Grip Slip-on grips, whereas the Polygon SISKIU D7 only provides Alloy flat pedals. This makes purchasing the Kona Big Honzo more convenient for riders.
In summary, if you’re looking for a more comfortable riding experience, the Kona Big Honzo will meet your needs well. If you’re seeking a better full-suspension experience, I would recommend considering the Polygon SISKIU D7.
Learn More: Is Kona Libre Worth Buying? – [Kona Libre Review]
Polygon SISKIU D7 VS Cannondale Habit HT 2
The Cannondale Habit HT 2 features a 1×10 drivetrain, while the Polygon SISKIU D7 has a smoother-operating 1×11 drivetrain with a wider gear range. However, the Polygon SISKIU D7 is a full-suspension bike, equipped with 120mm of front travel and 120mm of rear travel. While the front travel might be slightly less than the 130mm on the Cannondale Habit HT 2, the Cannondale is a hardtail suspension bike and lacks rear travel.
Furthermore, the Polygon SISKIU D7 comes with Alloy flat pedals, while the Cannondale Habit HT 2 features Cannondale TrailShroom grips. The Cannondale Habit HT 2 uses a 2.5″ WTB Vigilante tire in the front and 2.4″ WTB Vigilante tires in the rear, which are wider than the 2.25″ tires on the Polygon SISKIU D7. These wider tires can handle a greater variety of terrains, but narrower tires offer greater agility.
So, if you prefer wider tires, I would recommend the Cannondale Habit HT 2. If you’re looking for a superior shifting system, the Polygon SISKIU D7 would be your better choice.
Learn More: Is Cannondale Habit 4 A Good Bike? [2022 Cannondale Habit 4 Review]
Summary
The above is our complete review of the Polygon SISKIU D7. This outstanding full-suspension trail bike offers excellent performance for off-road riding. Considering all factors, we rate it 4.7 out of 5. If you’re interested in more bike information, feel free to check out our other reviews.
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