There are ordinary bicycles, and then there is the Mongoose Men’s Malus Fat Tire Bike. The fat tires are something I had never experienced before, and they did not disappoint. Hopping on the seat of this bad boy after being used to riding standard-width mountain bike tires for so long made it feel like, I was riding the bicycle equivalent of a monster truck. The tires made it feel like I could ride this bicycle over anything that got in my way.
Luckily, I was riding it on the beach, so I only had to ride over a few seashells and dodge a few curious children. Most people have never seen a bicycle with tires that large, so it did turn quite a few heads as well. This bicycle really makes you feel like you are riding something special. It was a lot of fun, more than I have had in quite a while on the seat of a bike. If you are looking for a bike under 1000 dollars, you can read these reviews to get your next fat bike.
Mongoose Men’s Malus Fat Tire Bike Reviews
There are lots of positive things about these fat bikes. In this mongoose malus review, I will cover something important you need to know before making your decision. Keep reading.
Features & BenefitsTires
The tires are obviously the biggest attraction of this bicycle. It comes with the standard 26-inch wheel diameter, but these monsters are 4 inches wide! This provides a lot more stability for riding in rough terrain than standard tires, which are usually one and a half to 2 inches wide. These tires are extra knobby to provide additional drive power, and I can really feel them helping to push the sand underneath me as I was riding. I usually ride at low tide by the water where the sand is more firm, but with these tires, I can ride any time.
Frame
Mongoose malus has always had a reputation for building strong frames, and this one is no exception, They took their standard cruiser frame and put it on steroids. They had to widen the forks to accommodate the fat tires (obviously), but they made sure it has plenty of vertical clearance so you can take it on rough terrain without any worries. When you are riding, everything feels tight and sturdy so you don’t have to worry about the bicycle falling apart while riding downhill at top speed. The steel frame may be strong, but it is not exactly the lightest thing in the world, so this bicycle is not exactly a racer. This is for someone who is just trying to have fun.
Brakes
The disc brakes were a nice touch because they provide more stopping power than regular brake pads so you can control yourself more when riding on trails. Beach riding as I do can be especially hazardous because you can get sand under the pads, and when combined with the wet ocean spray it can be very difficult to stop when a little kid runs out in front of you (believe it or not, riding on the sand at low tide is as smooth as riding on asphalt). The disc brakes give you more control over the bicycle and let you push your limits without worry.
7 Speed
The Malus has a 7-speed Shimano shifter which allows for easy riding through most types of terrain. You might not be able to ride this bicycle up Mount Everest, but you will be able to take it just about anywhere else you want. The handlebars are fitted with twist shifters which allow for a pretty seamless transition through gears. The pedals and crankshaft are cruiser style rather than something high-performance, so again, no racing. This is a bicycle designed for casual riders.
Sizing
The overall bicycle sits 42 inches tall and the handlebar width is 26 inches, so it will comfortably fit just about anyone but a professional basketball player. The handlebars are adjustable up and down, so if you are on the tall side (like I am), you can still set the configuration comfortably. The frame size will fit on any bike rack so it makes a nice travel companion as well. The 26-inch wheels are big enough that you can ride this bicycle for extended periods without overworking yourself. More ride time means more fun.
Pros
- Tires-obviously the biggest selling point for this bicycle. Wider tires give more stability on rough terrain and let you really push the limits of this bicycle.
- Brakes-front and rear disc brakes allow you to ride the bicycle as hard as you want and still maintain control. Always wear a helmet, but better brakes make it less likely you will crash.
- Warranty-as I said, Mongoose is a top-of-the-line name, and this bicycle comes with a 1-year limited manufacturer warranty. On the rare chance something does break on this bicycle that wasn’t caused by running it over with your car, Mongoose will repair or replace the defect.
- Uniqueness-it may seem trivial, but some people (myself included) may enjoy the unique aspect of having something that no one else does (yet).
- Overall this bike is budget-friendly. You can get this bike for under 500 dollars.
Cons
- Weight-this bicycle weighs almost 50 pounds. While that may lend to durability, it is something to think about when hauling it around or trying to hoist it up on a wall mount for storage.
- Color options-right now, the frame only has one option (silver) and the wheels only have two options (dark grey or maroon)
key Features of Mongoose Malus Fat Bike
- Frame-Steel
- Wheels-26 inch alloy
- Gearing-7 speed twist shifter with Shimano derailleur
- Brakes-front and rear disc
- Warranty-1 year manufacturer limited
- Dimensions-42 inches high x 28 inches wide x 73 inches long
FAQs Of Mongoose Fat Tire Bike
Q: Does this bicycle accommodate taller than average riders?
A: Yes. I am 6’1″ and had no trouble, and I have been reading where people are saying they are 6’3″ or 6’4″ and have no trouble adjusting the handlebar and seat to fit them.
Q: Can I put a motor on it?
A: Even though it has a modified frame to fit the fatter tires, you can add an electric or even gas-powered motor to the back. Personally, I fail to see the fun in that though.
Q: Can I change out the tires for normal-sized if you want to?
A: Yes, but why would you want to? If you wanted to alternate between riding with fat tires sometimes and standard width tires sometimes, you can.
Final Conclusion
This bicycle is awesome. The Malus is a great introduction to the extreme side of the cycling world. Aside from looking really cool with the fat tires on it, it is a strong and durable bicycle that rides very well. It is a cruiser at heart, so it is perfect for what I want to use it for. I enjoy riding on the beach, right near or sometimes in the water, and I have had trouble in the past with smaller tires.
The fat tires provide the balance and drive I need to pedal through the soft spots and definitely make it easier riding through the dry sand further up the beach. I would definitely recommend this bicycle for anyone who enjoys casual trail riding and who wants to look really, really cool while doing so.
Last Updated: August 7, 2022
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