Its fat tires measuring between 4-5 inches provide the necessary grip and shock absorption, delivering a smooth ride. And not to forget the sturdy steel frame that ensures durability even under the toughest conditions. One of the most striking features of Mongoose fat tire bikes is their ability to provide exceptional traction. Their wider tires create a larger contact surface with the ground, allowing for a much firmer grip.
The drive train is setup for either snow or sand riding and my son seemed to ride comfortably. Mongoose made a sound decision considering the weight that a child must pedal. Having a wider gear range makes for a versatile bike that can conquer the terrain. Shifting worked out of the mongoose fat bike box and functioned well.
I tested a size extra large and found it’s a pretty close fit, though even at full extension the saddle is a bit short for me. Safety-wise, these bikes are equipped with a reliable braking system that offers excellent stopping power in all weather conditions. This, combined with the enhanced stability and control of the bike, ensures a safe riding experience whether you’re a seasoned pro or a cycling newbie. In addition, with 24-inch wheels, my son’s bikes are getting big enough that I am able to ride them without damaging anything. I’m not taking them off jumps or going for sustained rides, but just trying to get the feel and experience of the machine. The components as a whole function as they should.
They are not only great for off-road biking but also excellent for city rides. The comfortable seating and easy-to-use gear system make them a perfect fit for urban environments. For those passionate about outdoor activities and especially cycling, investing in a well-structured and reliable bike is paramount. One bike that is sure to tick all your boxes is the Mongoose fat tire bike.
I don’t know of many that go smaller from there either. Hopefully some training will allow him to be able to climb on his own for some of the ride. Sticking to flat nordic type trails for fat biking in the snow might be our best bet. Really, this frame is most likely a back up bike for a family of enthusiasts that want their child to join the fat biking they do in the winter. While the Mongoose Argus Trail is trail worthy, there are other bikes that do trail riding better. There is a low level shimano hydraulic disc brake kit that is SO NICE compared to the cable disc brakes.
I have been looking at high rise handlebars or bar risers to help with the riding position. I had one for awhile that I didn’t ride very much, turns out I hate riding in the snow anyway. They are heavy but like it’s said above, more of a workout. So far, I’ve only ridden it around the driveway and already hate the terrible twist shifter.
They are not hydraulic and even I could feel that when testing myself. The job is getting done but there is more arm pump and fatigue when wrestling more weight with a lower grade brake system. Mongoose’s website just says “aluminum” for their unbranded brakes.
In my experience, this is pretty common for bikes in this price range. Kristen is a USA Cycling certified coach and loves to share her passion for biking with other families. Blair is a bike geek, mechanic, and mountain bike junkie. The components all functioned well with minimal adjustments needed and served their individual duties. The traits of handling and stability will most certainly transition to snow riding as well. They slowed my son’s riding down when needed but functioned as any mechanical brake set would.
My son was able to adapt his riding to match the needs of the machine. My son is also still a child and I don’t want to torture him too much. We will definitely stick to mountain biking with his Trailcraft, but I am excited to get my son out on some decent snow rides. I am excited to take my son fat biking this coming winter and provide a complete review.