Vilano Shadow Road Bike Review

Summary: This bike is an aerodynamically designed entry level road bike for commuting. However, you can also use it for triathlon training, exercise, fitness, or simple club rides.

This Vilano Road Bike is a fantastic starter bike. Vilano made this affordable, but didn’t use cheap materials. It is sturdy, reliable and versatile. There are better models out there. But if you’re on a tight budget and need something with great features, then you should consider this.

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An Excellent and Versatile Entry Level Bike

The Vilano Shadow Road bike with Shimano STI Integrated Shifters is one of the better options for good, affordable road bikes. This is a quality entry level road bike you can use for your daily commute. It is also versatile enough for other uses.

This model was built using Shimano’s STI integrated shifters. They enable you to shift gears quickly and smoothly. It has a decent set of 700c x 25c double walled CNC alloy based wheels. You can travel a range of different terrain types, but it won’t be as good as other bikes.

Great Value for an Affordable Bike

The Vilano Bike’s frame is aerodynamically designed. You’ll go faster since the bike’s frame reduces wind resistance. It is also light weight due to its aluminum construct. As a result, you can reach speeds up to 17 MPH with this bike.

Shimano STI brake shifter will give you precise, controllable braking and shifting. So when you do go fast, you do it without worry. Maneuvering is still smooth and you’re confident that the brakes will hold. The tires are also good enough that you can reach top speed and maintain it thanks to its low resistance model tires.

Vilano made this bike out of Aluminum (6061), which makes it damage resistant. It is one of the bike’s best features. The aluminum construction also makes this model sturdy and ultra light weight. You’ll notice the benefits of the aluminum construct when you’re going fast, riding uphill or lifting it up to your car.

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​Most Components are Not Top Quality

Majority of the components are made by Shimano. The frame and saddle are the only ones that aren’t. These Shimano components are not top of the line. However, they are dependable. You can expect a sturdy and reliable ride at all times with these.

This model’s Shimano gear shifters and braking mechanism is fantastic, though. The brakes’ precision are great. It will handle a lot of miles. It is the most durable and sturdy among all the parts. However, you may see it unravel after 100 miles or more. By then, you need to replace them.

Another issue is the seating. You can’t go on long rides or on bumpy terrains with this. The seating has little to no padding. You need to get a replacement seat.

The package also comes with cheap pedals, which aren’t high standard. These aren’t as reliable, uncomfortable to use and will wear out easily. Again, you can simply fix this by replacing the bike pedals with more advanced designs. Find ones that are guaranteed to last longer and are more reliable.

Vilano has always suggested to bring their models to authorized bike shops for assembly. While you’re there, make the necessary replacements and tune ups. Make sure the tires are pumped up to 110. If not, you’ll end up flat on your first ride.

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Features and Specifications:

• Frame: 6061 Double Butted Aluminum w/ Integrated Headset

• Fork: 700c 1 1/8" Threadless

• Shifters: Shimano A070 STI Integrated Brake Lever

• Front Derailleur: Shimano

• Rear Derailleur: Shimano Tourney

• Crankset: Alloy Double

• Rims: 700c Doubled Walled CNC Alloy Machined Sides

• Freewheel: Shimano 7 speed

• Tires: 700c x 25c

• Chain: KMC

• Brakes: Dual Pivot Alloy Caliper

• Headset: 1 1/8" Integrated

• Handlebar: Alloy

• Saddle: Anatomic Comfort

• Seatpost: Alloy 27.2

• Speeds: 14

Customer Reviews and Scores:

Many people are impressed by this bike. Not because of the unique or fantastic features, but due to its value. It is a great entry level road bike for the price. No wonder it has a good star rating on Amazon.

Pros

Reliable and Versatile

The Vilano Shadow Road Bike is reliable and versatile at the same time. It is fairly reliable for triathlon practices, long rides, uphill rides and etc.

Great Value

If you’re a beginner or have been cycling for a while and don’t want to spend much, you should buy this.

Made of Good Quality Components

The Aluminum frame with Integrated Headset is one of its best features.

Shimano A070 STI Integrated Brake Lever

You get precise and controllable braking with this bike.

Great Starter Bike

This bike is fantastic for beginners.

Cons

Shifters are Difficult to Maneuver

Many people complain about the shifters. They are difficult to maneuver. Some will have a hard time to reach them.

Not for rough roads

This is not for rough roads. You’ll feel road vibrations while riding.

Cheap Components

The pedals and seat needs replacing.

​Final Thoughts

The Vilano Shadow Road bikes has all the features of a bike ten times the price. If you’re frugal and don’t want to spend on a premium bike, this is for you.

This is a good starter road bike. Low affordable price, good features and built to last years. It can compete with some of the best. It will do well on other terrains. But it’s main use is for commuting. If you need a quick dash inside the city or out, this is your bike.