Review: Apollo Exceed 40

A brilliant commuter flat bar road bike that makes riding easy and fun again. Quality ride.

I had my bike stolen earlier in the year. 🙁

At the time it was annoying, frustrating and sad; but I always new I had an upgrade coming. So following the winter months I decided it was time to get back on the two wheels again, and that started with a purchase of the Apollo Exceed 40.

I purchase this bike on sale at http://www.bicyclesuperstore.com.au/ and have really enjoyed the performance and handling so far, a month into riding it.

I previously had a road bike, but was consciously looking for a flat bar variant this time to improve comfort and durability while still wanting a light and agile frame.  The Apollo fit the bill as it comes in at around 9.5kg making it easy to move about and carry when needed.

My riding tendancies are primarily social/casual riding on the weekends over bike tracks as well as a couple of commutes during the week. I’m not into time or racing so I really thought the flar bar was good idea. That said, most road bikes delivered more value for money as far as components go as the flat bar road category is not that diverse.

What really sold it for me was the inclusion of Shimano 105 gearing, cranks and Tiagro shifters. These are premium components for a flat bar and really belong on a more decent road bike so I was stoked to have these included. I have 20 gears that shift flawlessly when needed.

This brings me to one of the best features of the bike, the way it handles inclines. Picking up the Exceed 40 after five months off riding I was able to easily scale hills and inclines that I know were normally a struggle. The gearing feels like it really is built for me.

So in all, I am happy with my addition to the family. Looks great feels great and have no regrets.

Good: Gearing. Weight. Colour.

Bad: Seat could be more comfortable (personal choice). Stock pedals are clipless (again personal choice but prefer toe clips)

Alternative option: