Dynacraft Vertical Gauntlet 24-Inch Mountain Bike Review
Produced by one of the most reputable names in mountain biking, the Dynacraft Vertical Gauntlet 24” mountain bike is one of the best deals there currently is in the mountain biking community. Price under $150, you won’t be able to find a better quality bike for a better price. In this review we will go over the pros and cons of the Dynacraft Vertical Gauntlet mountain bike, as well as some of the most frequently asked questions about this value bike.
Please note that as an Amazon Affiliate we may earn commission from qualified purchases — thanks for your support!
Dynacraft Vertical Gauntlet Review
As mountain biking has become more mainstream over the recent years there has be a huge influx of people into the mountain biking community, and there has been an equally large surge in the number of low price, low quality bikes. Fortunately for you, the Dynacraft Vertical Gauntlet is not one of those bikes. Although it is quite inexpensive, it is extremely high quality for its price. Equipped with efficient 21 speed Shimano grip shifters, dual suspension, and front and real caliper breaks this is the absolute perfect beginner bike. Additionally, being only 24” makes this bike even better for children or small adults as Dynacraft Vertical Gauntlet is somewhat smaller than many mountain bikes.
21 Speed Shimano Grip Shifters
Mountain biking can be one of the best outdoor activities there is. It is excellent exercise, extremely fun, and allows you to go places you never would have thought possible. However, for a young rider looking to get into the sport it can also be quite scary. One of the main reasons for this fear is the thought of having to take your hands off of the pedals to change gears with a thumb shifter. Many young riders have trouble with this and do not enjoy the experience. Thankfully the Dynacraft Vertical Gauntlet is designed for inexperienced riders and comes with grip shifters rather than thumb shifters. Although not quite as effective as thumb shifters, grip shifters make up for this with the increased feeling of control that an inexperienced rider gets when using them. Control and confidence are the most important things to keep a new riders excited about mountain biking, and the grip shifters on the Dynacraft Vertical Gauntlet are designed to maximize both of those things.
Front and Rear Caliper Brakes
If you have read some of our previous reviews you will know that here at Mountain Bikes lab we believe that disc brakes are far superior to caliper breaks, however context for that opinion is very important. Disc brakes are much more efficient at stopping a bike than caliper brakes and due to that, for an experienced rider who knows what they are doing, disc brakes are the clear choice. However, for an inexperienced rider, many times disc brakes are far too sensitive and end up being less effective. Most beginner riders have only ever ridden street bikes which almost exclusively have caliper brakes, this is what they are used to and moving directly to disc brakes can sometimes be too much of a jump. We believe that the caliper brakes on the Dynacraft Vertical Gauntlet were the perfect choice for the type of rider that this bike is designed for. It will allow new riders to get a feel for mountain biking without making the process of actually riding the bike too different from what they are used to, making them more comfortable and confident in their riding ability. ‘
Full Suspension Steel Frame
Made of high quality steel, the Vertical Gauntlet, like all Dynacraft products, is designed to withstand the wear and tear of continuous use on mountain trails. Its steel frame is quite durable however, it does have one major downside which is that it is quite heavy, which can be difficult for a weaker rider. The Dynacraft Vertical Gauntlet is also a full suspension bike which is great for newer riders. The dual suspension gives shock absorption to both the front and back wheels making for a more smooth and enjoyable ride. Compared to a single front suspension hardtail fork, dual full suspension frame bikes are more enjoyable to ride especially for someone who has little experience riding a bike that has suspension. More experienced riders generally prefer hardtail bikes as it give them more control over how they rider, but for anyone looking to purchase the Dynacraft Vertical Gauntlet Mountain bike a full suspension frame almost certainly the best option.
Conclusion
Overall the Dynacraft Vertical Gauntlet is a solid if not overly exciting mountain bike. Priced around $100 this is a very inexpensive bike considering the quality that you are getting and we here are Mountain Bikes Lab have no reservations about recommending this bike to anyone new to the great sport of mountain biking. That being said for someone what has had experience mountain biking this is most likely not the best bike for you as it smaller than most bikes and has features that are clearly designed for a beginner rider.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dynacraft Vertical Gauntlet a good bike?
Like all Dynacraft products the Dynacraft Vertical Gauntlet is a high quality, durable bike that will perform well. This is an excellent bike for a young beginner rider.
What is the right height for the Dynacraft Vertical Gauntlet 24” mountain bike?
The optimal height for the Dynacraft Vertical Gauntlet would be someone between 5’0” and 5’8” with a maximum weight of around 170 pounds.
Is the Dynacraft Vertical Gauntlet a children’s bike?
Although not specifically designed as a children’s bike the Dynacraft Vertical Gauntlet is 24” making is a great size for children and smaller adults looking to get into mountain biking.
