Are Walmart bikes junk? (Schwinn Axum teardown)

We've seen how well the Schwinn Axum rides, but is it held together with hope and glue or can it last? We'll find out in the tear-down fo the Schwinn Axum!
See the bike at Walmart: bit.ly/Schwinn_Axum
(Note: There are two versions. The $398 black version, and the $498 Blue Dropper post version. WHen you select the color, the price will change.)
Video Mentions
Check out my original review: • Best Walmart bike you ...
See Josh Huck to flat on the Axum: • This $399 Walmart Moun...
Park Tool crank identification: • Crank Type Identification
Park Tool Bottom bracket Identification: • What Type of Bottom Br...
Schwinn Axum Fork teardown: • Schwinn Axum Suspensio...
SR Suntour SCM 30 fork teardown: • Suntour XCM Fork Servi...
Tools Used
Crank Bros Multi-tool: bit.ly/CB_m17
Crank Puller: bit.ly/Crank_puller
Breaker Bar: bit.ly/Breaker_Bar
BB Removal tool: bit.ly/BB_Tool
Chain Whip: bit.ly/chain_whip
Kobalt T-handle Hex: bit.ly/Kobolt_T_hex
Tire Levers: bit.ly/Pedro_Levers
Stan's Tire Sealant: bit.ly/Stans_seal
--------------------------
📷 My Camera Gear: bit.ly/TF_Whatsinmypack
🌎 Follow me Online
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#Budgetbikes #Schwinn #Walmartbike

[@TrailFeatures]

Did I add too much sealant, or not enough? 🤔

[@BackyardShredder]

Trail Features not enough glitter ✨😂

[@MegaMilesteg]

Yes

[@willbros1499]

I'll refrain from commenting until after your next video when you burp that tire worse than Uncle Jimmy after his third plate at Thanksgiving, you're down to half the amount of sealant, and you probably a good POV crash video to go with it. :-)

[@SkillsWithPhil]

You're going to need at least another full bottle.

[@trailboss4395]

Trail Features perfect amount, amazing video. Loved every second of it 🤘

[@DigitalProclaimer]

Thank you for reviewing entry level bikes. I believe there is an underserved market for people who want to ride bikes, but don’t want to break the bank. I also appreciate your professional approach, rather than dismissing this bike as a BSO.

[@TrailFeatures]

Thanks! Not everyone wants to send it deep on a bike, so it's good to have realistic ideas of what their options are.

[@Boats29]

This is me to a tee. I haven't had a mountain bike since I was in high school. I bout a nakumura mountain bike and realized fast that a lot of the parts are not that great. I only wished I splurged enough to get a bike that was worth slowly upgrading.

[@TheFjmtb]

I would be curious how it would perform if the forks and more functional brakes were swapped, frame looks tidy

[@swaghauler8334]

I'm old enough to remember when "POS" ALSO meant "Product of Schwinn." I'm glad they are upping their game.

[@noonehere4332]

Thats what bikesdirect does. Better bikes than walmart, cheaper than bike shop

[@carlreygall9457]

i wish they could sell the "frame only options". i would love to have it custom built.

[@TrailFeatures]

I think the people wanting to build up a bike would go for a used frame to keep it cheap, or pony up for a frame with boost 148 spacing.

[@jakebmw]

@@TrailFeatures for sure a used frame, thats how I built literally all 5 of my bikes

[@Redrush11]

Have a look on chain reaction cycles. Brand X do a super cheap frame

[@nawaal4452]

Merida Frames! Bang for buck

[@letour32rr]

@@TrailFeatures sure, but I love having an underdog frame. I know good and well my riding ability will never go beyond what that Schwinn frame can handle.

[@AliBaba-du2fz]

Junk for some people, but treasure for me. Saving money for 1 year and now I get my $400 bike and I really enjoyed it. 20 Km cycling everyday made my day.

[@MiGujack3]

People who call it junk barely ride hard and buy expensive for the placebo.

[@drillusion5196]

In my country these bikes are like midrange

[@SirDella]

@@drillusion5196 in my country these bikes last 3 seconds before being stolen

[@drillusion5196]

@@SirDella yea same just park your bikes and lock it with chains ⛓.

[@SirDella]

@@drillusion5196 I'm talking about a locked bike lol

[@rehabsinger]

I'm a first-timer and I bought a 2020 Schwinn Boundary (I liked KevCentral's reviews) $248.00 at Walmart. I don't see much difference except for the lock-out option on the shocks. I am learning a LOT because of the 2020 Boundary, both in riding and watching these videos. Believe me, there is a good reason for these 'beginner bikes'. Thanks for the video, good job!

[@adamcvanwinkle]

Really like the uh.. breakdown of the bike build haha. I wish all bike reviews were this thorough!

[@DJLongLastin]

This is some good content. Great editing and your presentation style is really relaxing and watchable

[@j.w.grayson6937]

Excellent job on the video, I especially liked the audio. It was clear and at a pace that was easy to follow.

[@Crash10101010]

Hey man! Just saw three of your recent videos (GT Avalanche review through this one) and I got so much out of them as a beginner who’s looking to learn more about bikes. Your videos are very well constructed. Just subscribed!

[@TrailFeatures]

Glad you like them!

[@BigVanLittleAdventures]

I feel like channels like kev central (and yours) are making these companys realize they have a large segment of enthusiasts that want more than just a cheap bike. I feel like things are going to get interesting... Especially after seeing them put tapered headset capabilities on the bikes. Now we just need a company willing to make some decent quality budget upgrades.

[@pewymcpewerson1395]

I bought a Redline Zander summer of 18 from walmart for $147. Frame is basically a GT. Since then I've upgraded the cheap spring fork to a Manitou Markor air fork, raceface pedals and grips, racing Ralph tires, 40mm riser spoon bars and a 40mm stem. 2yrs later and it hasn't let me down on any trail, hitting it hard on the rocks or just tooling down the gravel. Love these videos on budget builds. Keep them coming cause this kind of content is what got me into mine. 👍👍🚴

[@matrixracing8268]

I Like The Way That You Did This Because Daily MTB Rider Was Complaining A lot About This Bike When Riding It. Then You are chill, becuase Your Happy Because You are On a Bike!

[@TrailFeatures]

To be fair, Josh and I have pretty different riding styles. I'm more punch through a rock garden while he's a go-full-send guy. That's why it's great for multiple people to review the same bike, it paints a better picture of who this bike is for and what it's good at. 👍

[@archetypex65]

He complained about the bike because the bike is a piece of crap. 🤦🏻‍♂️🙄

[@jonathanwalker8310]

Flying Lap Productions what would be a good beginner bike? I’ve been watching a bunch of videos about it but they are contradictory to each other, any advice?

[@matrixracing8268]

@@archetypex65 That's where your wrong. This bike has a lot of potential mostly swap ou the brakes and forks and then you have yourself a pretty nice bike to ride on green and blue trails so it's perfect for a beginner! To me no bikes are horrible im just happy if im on a bike and I think that Trail Features can agree with me. Today I was doing Tabletops with a hybrid bike and I was having the time of my life so yeah any bike you can have fun on!

[@drumzforbumz]

@@jonathanwalker8310 as a beginner myself I did a ton of research. I wound up going to a local dealer of the brand I had set my mind on and went there to see if they had or were able to order the 2019 version of my bike rather than the 2020. I wound up saving almost $150 by doing that and the main thing I lost out on was the wheelset on the 2020 is tubeless capable while mine is not which to me isnt a make or break. I think overall and having watched this video and some others of the Axum, the biggest deterrent in my mind would be the groupset of components being schwinns own in house creation. Ultimately I think like many are saying here, the bike you can get out and ride in your price range is the bike you should purchase and go out and enjoy. Down the line if you continue to enjoy the sport and its in your budget you can upgrade what you have or even re-sell it and upgrade. Good luck and hope you find what your looking for.

[@larryschmollinger5694]

Man great review. Lot knowledge to pick up from your video. So much to absorbe my head was spinning! I'm a newb. This my first year riding so yea bro.....I really don't know up from down. I'm 50 years old and I'm getting started. I loved being on a bike since I was ,little kid. I picked up a Schwinn Boundry based on the fact that it was free and i thought it looked cool. So your videos on the Schwinn line got my attention. The Boundary frame seemed usable to me also. I'm a rebuild and upgrade junkie. So I'm thrilled to start out with it. Thanks for really great video. I subscribed.

[@gregponitz114]

Best upgrade I made was a sealed Bottom bracket. One ball bearing not there from factory and little grease. Also, after looking at video I may check headset grease level.

[@RobertBullock]

Clearance at $230. Got one. I think for that price it's a crazy deal.

[@andrewdoit]

Yea I just order a 19” at clearance for $228. That’s $220 to put into upgrades.

[@markcouch4235]

Same, I'm planning converting mine to middrive electric (bafang bbs02 + 52v 17.5ah), Schwalbe Big Apples 2.3 filled with FlatOut, hydro brakes

[@workhorsemtb7075]

The sealant amount cracked me up! Nice job, as always

[@TrailFeatures]

Glad you liked it!

[@chilly3528]

These bikes are so fun to modify and they taught me a lot about bicycle maintenance.

[@MrRoche337]

I bought this and love it I upgraded the brakes and out of necessity changed to a hallowtech bottom bracket other than that I absolutely love this bike

[@adamdavis354]

its always a challenge to decide whether to upgrade or go for a whole new bike. Owning this bike, it would be a tough choice for sure.

[@robertcabrera6232]

I was looking at this bike as an option when I was thinking about getting back into riding after a 20 year hiatus, but instead I hunted around on eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Craigslist until I finally saw a bike that suited me in that budget. What finally caught my eye was an early 2000s Trek 8500 with nearly every upgrade that was available at the time. It's got a 27 speed Shimano Deore XT indexed drive train and hydraulic disc brakes, 26" quick release tubeless rims, a Rockshox Reba Dual Air fork with remote adjustable damping and poploc. The bike was well taken care of by an elderly gentleman (now in his mid 70s) who had custom ordered it new. I figured that even if I have to tear it down completely to grease and or replace bearings, worn gears or cables, that I'm still coming out ahead of what I would have had I purchased this Schwin for the same amount of money.

[@jcs480able]

I still have my mid nineties Trek 7500 "Aluminum"...yep, those were the days when aluminum frames were considered to be like carbon fiber today. It's a bright, kinda faded, lime green with spring oii Trek in house forks and Shimano LX components. The frame geometry was very boxy in those days and subsequently extremely top heavy. I just keep it around for nostalgia as it seems almost dangerous to ride compared to my 2019 bike. Very cool bikes for the time. I paid $750 at the bike shop (on sale) which wasn't too bad even for the time. The Cannondale's were starting at 1200 bucks!

[@oklahotb3217]

It might come down to tire selection but I didn't have an issue with seating mine tubeless that I haven't had with other tubeless ready rims and tires. My rear Aggressor seated with my little tire inflator that plugs into my cigarette lighter. I had to use a compressor for the front Minion but both seated with the satisfying pops. Neither lost seal when I let the air out either. I have one ride on them so far without issue but hopefully I'll get out this weekend and push them a littler harder and see. Testing these things is half the fun :) Edited to add: Goes without saying but great video as always.

[@echobenav8]

Thanks for the video! Bought an Axum based on your first video a month ago to get into the sport. I've upgraded the pedals and brakes (MT200) and it's made the bike a lot more fun and safe. This video will help a lot when I upgrade the rest of the bike as parts wear out, and I get better at riding. Much Appreciation!

[@TrailFeatures]

Glad to hear you like the videos! Those are solid improvements to the bike.

[@ElGranCarajo]

MT200 800mm/1500mm or the 1600mm? Please advise, Thank you!!

[@echobenav8]

@@ElGranCarajo 1500mm, still a bit long though I've read you can trim them without re-bleeding. I just zip-tied them in front of the handle bars. Hasn't interfered with handling. Huge difference in braking power. Remember to bed the breaks before you hit the trails though.

[@TrailFeatures]

To add on to that, If you don’t feel comfortable shorting the hoses on your brakes, a local bike shop would be happy to take care of that for a small fee. That way everything looks nice and tidy, and you can feel safe knowing a professional did the job for you.

[@echobenav8]

@@TrailFeatures Thanks! I'll give them a try. By the way, my 16yr old is now on the hunt for GT Avalanche Comp because of you! He's been riding an 8yr old Hard Rock into the dirt and his birthday is coming up. Keep up the great videos and advice!

[@The_Sampler]

Joe: Let's Take a break to see how it's warming up outside" Me: 🤣🤣🤣 P.s. That's one sick shirt you are rockin! :P

[@TrailFeatures]

Colorado: We leave our weather playing on shuffle.

[@AidanChen7]

Hi alex

[@reynansalvante2681]

If im not mistaken your shirt are from amstradam right?😁😁😁😁👍😎

[@reynansalvante2681]

If im not mistaken your shirt are from amstradam right?😁😁😁😁👍😎

[@majortalley8119]

@@TrailFeaturestrue but NM has really weird weather too, snowed for two days and now is 70 degrees out. The mountains are wack.

[@tuxamation]

Thanks for this video. I found one used (guy bought it during lock-down & rode it maybe 5 times) and looked at the bearings. Unlike the one you got, all the bearings had sufficient grease, but the head bearings had a couple of small aluminum shavings left from machining. The bike is fun to ride. Thanks for making me aware of this bike.

[@nickizcool20]

Bought that bike 2 weeks ago! Amazing 🤩 just lined up the chain tonight. It can take a beating!!! Very good mountain bike

[@nogoogle6349]

Really liked the outside temperature check clip. I thought it was funny. Good job putting forth the humorous editing effort.

[@peterhong526]

"Why don't we take a "brake" from all this excitement..." nicely done👍

[@tjsogmc]

I've found that the WalMart or other cheap bikes are actually pretty good, but you have to completely take them apart first and build them correctly. Once they are set up and adjusted, they aren't so bad.

[@stephenhunter6507]

That's just what I did. My Jeep and camping gear cost enough, I had to spread the budget. The great part is getting more use out of my tools.

[@conejoloco7502]

@@stephenhunter6507 I'm interested in what camping gear you purchased and hows it holding up

[@user-180-mand90]

The Axum seems to be good when ordered direct. The only thing I had to do was adjust the rear derailleur. I took a torque wrench to every bolt and only one or two were out of spec.

[@malikgraham1824]

How long would you say these bikes last

[@tjsogmc]

@malikgraham1824 I have a Kmart brand 3 speed that's 40 years old. If you build and set them up properly, then do regular maintenance on it, these department store bikes will last longer than you most likely.

[@REMAX_CCA]

Great vid! I own a "Walmart bike" and love it. I give it light use and for this, it's been great.

[@armandojuan64]

Dude , I love your videos so much .

[@TheBackPasture]

Mine has lasted its first season, looking forward to a lot more!!

[@jcs480able]

It's a great budget option to get on the trail and the dropper post edition is really nice. A budget Rockshock or even a cheap Chinese air fork plus hydraulic brakes and nicer derailer should be all that is needed to really make it worthy. Those items will add up to another 4-500 bucks so it does start to become a toss up whether to just pay a little more from buyer direct stores or go to the local bike shop. The frame is really nice, but so are most of them these days. If all you have is 500 bucks and want to ride something now, then this is awesome!

[@thecakeisalie7070]

Awesome teardown! Looks like a good starter complete! 1. Remove kick stand 2. Get a pair of Tubolitos to reduce rotational weight 3. Change out brake/shifter cables with teflon coated ones for smoother controls That's all you'd probably want to do with this bike. Forks appear to continue to be the component barrier to getting into the next level of riding experience, and you might as well get a new hardtail at that point. Lack of grease is a sad reality with even the reputable brands. :(

[@myfirstcrappyvideobilly]

Grease must be expensive. What do you want for 400 dollars.

[@thetech_rider9654]

also, i did convert my wheels to tubeless on this bike, and it does have a tapered headset, which is missing from most bike shop entry level bikes.

[@michaelhayward7572]

That frame is identical to look at to my Trinx. Trinx are a Chinese company that also make frames for other companies (one million per annum). Their own bikes are designed in Italy. My L size 21" framed X1-P was $300, delivered 29" wheels, 27 speed, hydraulic brakes, mag forks, remote lock out, Shimano everything. Very happy with the product. Subscribed, great channel for 60 y/o newbies like myself, although have ridden motorcycles all my adult life. Regards from NE Thailand.

[@donoliver3266]

I bought a Walmart bike branded as NEXT about 19yrs ago just over a $100 At the time I was racing mtb bikes and didn’t want to leave my expensive full suspension sitting around while I was in a store So I use the next to train on As I upgraded my race mtb I put those Parts on the next Now I’m almost 71 and still have the next and still ride it as my primary bike it just works for me Have a blessed day

[@JR-zw2vb]

10 years ago, got a schwinn 700c road bike. Broke. Got it fixed, upgraded at a bike shop. Rides like a champ.

[@watchmebuildit]

Two ideas: 1) it would be great to do an ‘upscale’ video on this to test the potential of the frame. 2) Schwinn might to better to offer better spec and a rigid fork (I know - five years ago that would be anathema, but in the era of the gravel bike...)

[@Digital_Gangster]

I would rather have a reliable tubed setup than a questionable tubeless setup. Nice video!

[@TrailFeatures]

True.

[@Riley_1955]

Me too all day everyday......And I also hate those european valve stems.

[@myfirstcrappyvideobilly]

Same

[@jacksharmonoquinn572]

Thinking after the upgrades needed out the box, I could have bought a LBS bike

[@RobMacKendrick]

@@Riley_1955 Ho, don't get me started. Presta valves encapsulate everything that's gone wrong with the bike market in the past 30 years. Short version: dumb gear changes no-one asked for. ("I know! How about tires you have to have a special pump to inflate!")

[@TheSung75]

Thanks for getting the weight of the frame. I am impressed. I am thinking it might be worth the price and upgrade if the stock wheels are half decent. Only downfall is the rear QR dropouts. :(

[@OgDj2024]

Good video! Lots of good information! RESPECT! ✊🏾

[@renosaintz7864]

That warming up on the outside scene made me to give this guy a sub hahaha

[@brushmonkeys]

My friend has a Schwinn too, and it does ride pretty well. Not as good as my Megatower, but its not bad at all.

[@theadventurebiker]

Great review man! I thought the production quality was fantastic! This bike looks like a pretty good value and a good bike for fist time riders.

[@TrailFeatures]

Thanks!

[@smitajky]

I have a number of bikes. Some of them are Kmart or BigW specials. They cost a LOT less than $400. More like $150 Australian or about $110 US. The tyres were terrible. But the rest of the bike was fundamentally sound. HOWEVER it was not assembled or adjusted properly. So dismantling the bike, cleaning, greasing and adjusting everything made each of them into a much better bike. Replacing the tyres with good tyres has made them into a very useful bike that has covered large distances without fuss, wear or breakage.

[@e14ee]

Walmart bikes can either be a gold mine, or complete trash.

[@dannyphantom121]

Schwinn is undoubtedly the best bike brand Wally World has to offer.

[@WalmartBrandClothingItems]

i bought the younger brother to the Axum, called the Boundary. i have sent it down a black diamond trail before and its held up pretty good.

[@playgroundchooser]

🙋‍♂️ Short man here. I'm all in on a S/M frame. I'll even take a pink bike.

[@eli8699]

playgroundchooser how tall are you I need to know what size bike you use I’m shorter too

[@notyouraverage1saiah660]

elijah. I’m 5’3 on a good day

[@zzzonezz]

I am 5'6" and have the boundry. It is to big for me but its still way way more stable than my old 26er. My observation is this. I would probably go alcomp next time cause probably gonna replace every part as time goes by so the smaller frame would b better for me. But still prefer the larg frame 29" over my medium frame 26". Like its no contest.

[@jacksharmonoquinn572]

Try the Al Comp it may be a good fit

[@mudkayak6305]

@@zzzonezz Im 5'10 - 5'11 and boundary frames feels great to ride, but... stand over height is needlessly high and is a real nut cracker. Every other mtn bike frame is lower, what on earth is Schwinn thinking ?!

[@michaelb1761]

Reminds me a lot of my first mountain bike from 6 years ago. It was heavy. The components were cheap and of questionable durability. But, it got me out and cycling again. That fork in particular will be the biggest limiter, or at least it was for me. I didn't watch the linked video, but I bet the "lock-out" and adjustment don't have any real effect on the fork. My starter bike was fine as a grocery getter, commuter, and mild trail bike, but nothing beyond that because of that front fork.

[@PeaceLoveAndRico]

I bent the back rim of their 98 buck mountain bike the first week getting groceries ... I turned it into a "walking wheel" also called "the great wheel" for spinning cotton.

[@ivanwiththevans8429]

The problem with this bike is I CANT FIND IT ANYWHERE

[@aaronanderson8673]

ivanwiththevans order online and get the DP model.

[@BicMichuM]

Just got 2 2wks ago...dp and standard model...just keep checking online

[@johnaldred6864]

Brilliant review ...thanks

[@driver8sk]

The best part is that there's no bizzare/nonstandard components or frame construction. You can replace individual components as they break rather or you get sick of them with standard modern components. No threaded stem conversions or finding the nicest NOS freewheel you can dig up. My only concern is those kickstand holes. Seems like they create an opportunity to create a standing puddle in your frame if you don't plug them up.

[@TrailFeatures]

That part of the frame is a solid section, no tube area for water to ingress. 👍

[@keonihavea]

Hey man, great channel. New to mountain biking, purchased this bike in DP version and made quite a few upgrades like maxxis dhr ii, suntour fork, box components two 11sp, raceface stem and bar, etc. Althought i am looking to upgrade how to get better engagement when going up trails due to sometimes foot slipping off. Is there a way upgrade this component or do i have to purchase a rear wheel? I genuinely appreciate your opinion.

[@crazy8sdrums]

The Axum is like an upgraded Schwinn Santis, the upgrade being the tapered head tube and another bottle cage mount. The drivetrain is different too. I bought a Santis last year and put a Deore drivetrain on it and a nice air fork (that had a straight steerer). With about $800 total into it, the Santis is a darn good trail bike now. With the Axum, I think the parts on it are good enough to ride until they break and then you can upgrade to better. Ride now...upgrade later. A pretty good plan for the broke folk.

[@crocsonletsgo9665]

My bike was built from a Schwinn boundary. I love the square tube frame. And it's big enough for my giant body.

[@phatrickmoore]

I would love for Schwinn to bring back the Moab in its former glory 😍❤

[@christopherortiz8713]

Great video, since I looking for a good starter bike to Start off with. My question what’s better a single sprocket or 2x or 3 x.. trying to see what’s the best kind?

[@shazbk7616]

I am a new subscriber and I want to ket you know how impressed I am with your content and overall program quality!!! Do you know much about the 2017 Specialized Rockhopper 29r? Would like to get your impressions.

[@24james]

Got mine for $218 on sale for a second bike when I have guests. I ride it too…rides solid!💯✔️

[@robthesasquatch6482]

i had a large frame Axum DP in red. the color grew on me. her name was Big Red. after two seasons and 400 ish in upgrades, i tapped out and bought a polygon xtrada 7

[@danielbauguess7597]

Bought two of these, one with the dropper, one without. Solid bikes. The one my son is riding must not have had much grease in the bb it’s loose and making horrible noises! What size so I can shop an upgrade?

[@jjr1314]

Schwinns only mistake was not making multiple sizes. More parents are out looking for starter bikes for their young shredders to learn on. This may have been a decent starting point for them. But most 13y/o kids will not fit a large.

[@TonyDWaters]

I would like to see it scaled down in wheel size too, so 27.5 (s/m) and a 26" (xs/xxs) see so many kids here riding around on 29ers and they can't lift the front wheel because the chain stays are way too long for their height.

[@danieloshea3326]

They make axum in medium and large now

[@BackyardShredder]

Let’s all appreciate the small “YEET’” in this video. Also great review yeet on friend!

[@TrailFeatures]

Yee!

[@zachz96]

I think the frame is beautiful. Put some 700c slick tires on it and it would be great for commuting and general errand running.

[@330_Crew]

Really wise move to offer S/M size, but I agree. Make it unisex with a neutral color.

[@TrailFeatures]

Yup! my GF even said the current colors look pretty cool!

[@DFX2KX]

@@TrailFeatures I have to agree, the bikes Schwinn's been making look like they're higher-market then they are. (I got the newest Al Comp and it has a very nice silver-to-black fade going on)

[@Dave_the_Dave]

This would be a nice commuter bike after putting slick tires and a rigid fork, maybe a swept back handlebar. And of course add some grease to the bottom bracket and headset. I actually like the standard square taper bb

[@SANangarita]

Awesome content, I know you not keeping the bike but what if you get one and upgrade the components in a budget that something cool to watch how well the budget bike perform.

[@krispayne729]

I think this one aksum's a pretty impressive bike for something that's sold at Walmart the only two corners I don't like the cut is with the headset bearings in the bottom bracket bearings they should have put a steel bottom bracket even though a square taper and sealed bearings in the headset but you can put a better tapered Fork into the headset I'll be Aksum and you can put like a king Creek headset with sealed bearings in it so it's a good frame was a lot of potential and being out light weight of aluminum that's pretty impressive so the swin axons made with high grade aluminum probably better than 6061

[@RatBallz69]

Good stuff man!! looking forward to see how it holds up 👌

[@TrailFeatures]

You and me both!

[@the1andonly]

Best thing you can do with a Walmart bike. After you put it back together yourself you know it's set up correctly. I think it's a surprisingly good bike and the fact that you can upgrade it makes it worth buying.

[@cmculver]

Hey dude, if I was looking for a budget frame to start with, something to tinker with and build over time that would be affordable, but also could grow with the upgrades -- something utilitarian -- all around use -- what are your thoughts?

[@mtbsavant5414]

My Axum is (still) better than yours 😝

[@TrailFeatures]

Don’t tempt me... 🤔

[@B1KER]

Trail Features Challenge accepted? 🤷‍♂️

[@TrailFeatures]

🤷‍♂️

[@zwitch7635]

@@TrailFeatures don't break the train 🤷‍♂️

[@zwitch7635]

🤷‍♂️

[@car5car5]

I would like to buy old style BB for my bike, but it was not available. Old style BB gives you control to grease and to adjust as often as you want. When you buy a cartridge, you have no idea if grease is in bearing or not and how much. Usually not enough.

[@chadschrum1306]

I would like to see this bike ridden for about 700 are 800 miles on mountain bike trails an see how all the parts hold up

[@javierholguin9298]

I rode it for about 2mi and the chain kept falling off. After only about two hours of riding/fixing the chain (because of the crappy gear changer), I got my money back and said no more. The cassette rattles like crazy and even small jumps off curbs will derail the chain....not fun

[@jacksharmonoquinn572]

I'd like to see your outlook on the taff and boundary that Schwimmer make also

[@mattj6676]

I'm really surprised that the marketing folks at Schwinn would think it makes more sense to market the smaller bike as a "women's" model. Perhaps they're thinking the average shopper at WalMart would prefer it that way. I agree with your comment, it makes far more sense to market it as just a "medium" frame like all the "upscale" bikes do, paint it an awesome color, and sell it to both men and women. Pretty paint costs about the same as ugly paint, I've never understood that one. Women will ride a bike that's designated for "men" but men won't ride a "women's" bike. They'll sell a lot more of them that way. I kind of feel like they're not aware of how much cred they're getting in the mountain biking circles...you can't buy one of these anywhere (sold out) right now largely due to folks like you and KevCentral. I hope they figure it out! And no, WalMart bikes aren't junk, they're bikes. You wouldn't call a Jeep CJ7 junk because it's slower, doesn't stop and it doesn't corner as well as a normal car. You need to use it differently, understand what it's good at and what it isn't and use it accordingly. I think this thing is awesome for no other reason than it will bring legitimate mountain bikes to the masses and increase the sport. More riders means more nice trails in parks and rec areas, more bike lanes in cities, etc. Good for everyone!

[@TrailFeatures]

I like to think of it as, don't make a bike for men or women, just make a bike that people like.👍 Also, as much as I'd love to think I have enough influence to cause a bike to sell out, it's actually just everyone wanting to get out of the house due to covid. every bike shop I've talked to has said they are slammed and can't keep things in stock! Tons on new riders getting into the sport, so everything that's affordable is flat out gone.

[@mattj6676]

@@TrailFeatures Give yourself a little credit, I don't think the average WalMart bike shopper is looking to spend 400 or 500 bucks on a bike. Though I've lived in GA (from Maine) just long enough to forget that this time of the year in half the country folks are finally getting a peek of the outdoors for the first time in a while. So your point is well taken.

[@animeshbvu]

I just got a Taffe 29ner. I am a new trail rider. The fork does tend to bottom out and doesn't exude confidence. The range on the transmission is commensurate for my needs now. However it is kinda on the heavier side at around 40-44 pounds. The Brakes could have been better, front discs wobble when brake lever is depressed. Is there a way to find what is the right amount of turns before locking the quick release lever?

[@deliopsdasilva8998]

Hi! I have an Scott Aspect 950 I want to improve my bike. What should I do?

[@JuanjoValdes13]

Good review on a budget bike, I also liked your hat

[@rockerjakerful]

I have one fully upgraded and it’s amazing

[@AidanChen7]

Love this channel keep it up dude

[@TrailFeatures]

Thanks, will do!

[@AidanChen7]

@@TrailFeatures nice!🤘🤘🤙🤙🤙🤜

[@gloup81]

What do you think of the Cube Aim? Thinking of grabbing one...

[@h3llb1lly889]

Being 6'2", most if not all department bikes are way too small for me. As well as having the ability to kick start a seized engine (yes, I tried, it turned but didnt start) I need a sturdy frame. Most department bikes feel like they're going to shatter when I ride them.

[@rcDoom]

1:23 When was the last time you wore out a chain ring?

[@chesterswingjr9796]

Great review. There aren’t ANY adult mountain bikes in ANY Walmart’s within 50 miles of me. I think people are wanting to get out of the house with this pandemic craziness going on, and buying bikes is a way to get outdoors. I got a Hyper Shocker( yeah I know😂) just to have something to ride. It needs a front fork to be trail ridden SAFELY!!! I replaced the seat, pedals, grips, and fine tuned the shock, and shifters/derailer, and to be honest, it’s not that bad!!! Can it do double black diamond trails? Only if you have titanium go-nads, or a death wish!!! But for basic trail/road riding, it’s fine. I plan on upgrading to a more intermediate bike once were aloud out!!! Maybe this, a GT Aggressor Pro, Giant ATX, or a Diamondback Hook.

[@mtbtx9304]

Those gloves are probably worth more than the bike right now lol. Great video stay safe!

[@TrailFeatures]

I am a fan of those TASCO gloves. 🙌

[@mtbtx9304]

Trail Features hahaha love the videos keep up the good work!

[@pepebarajas806]

I have one and I think it s a great bike to ride and have fun with it.

[@r.carter8378]

Does the bike come with the tools needed to separate the parts to add more grease initially? Should I go through and undo everything to put loctite or other fluids on all of the joints and moving parts? I worry that they don't do enough at the factory.

[@TrailFeatures]

Unfortunately, you would need to purchase the tools to do that maintenance. If you’re not comfortable doing that, your local bike shop should be able to do a once over on the bike just to make sure everything is dialed in.

[@marcp.1752]

Ha, friggin cool ! I wrote earlier without seeing this video, saying the frame is the best part of this cheaptrick, and from it looks, i guessed it from 2.0-2.2kg, it's exactly like that! :D

[@mellissanash7517]

What brand 29 tires was this? Can this fit 29x2.8 tires in the frame(cause one could always get an aftermarket fork that can do 29x2.8 on the used market for a fair price).

[@playgroundchooser]

This vid taught me lots of how to upgrade chunks. Thanks man! 👍

[@TrailFeatures]

Glad I could help!

[@DavidKing-wk1ws]

In commenting on the forks... What modern fork whould be as maintainence free and as durable as a monarch springer fork type fork?

[@ValefarBF]

The Al Comp looks like a really good bike for the $250 asking price.

[@DFX2KX]

I got mine for $199 (the newer 2020 model to boot), and my only complaint is one of the bearings in the back rim is making noise. Seeing as my LBS isn't open anymore... I get to go figure out what size cone wrench they used and sort it out myself.

[@ValefarBF]

@@DFX2KX it sucks they sold out everywhere :( I'm considering paying 300 for it on craigslist since I cant seem to find a bike anywhere near as good as the al comp

[@coolmusic1579]

My first Mt Bike was a 1992 schwinn Paramount 30 with Deore DX gruppo, cost was $500.00. I might end up picking this bike up.

[@dadthedudethecacklingbiker8457]

Can we get a table with all the component weights? It would be useful to those thinking of upgrading parts.

[@connorknepper9713]

Can’t find much on the Scott aspect 940. Seems to be a really good bike but there aren’t many videos

[@ThePermaculturekid]

Would you recommend throwing a nicer pair of Suntour or Rockshox forks on this bad boy?

[@aaronanderson8673]

I have had the Axum DP for about a month. It’s my first mountain bike as an adult. I got it knowing that I would want to do upgrades, but I enjoy the wrenching. I’m a field service technician, so I already have a lot of tools and general technical knowledge. Could I have gotten something comparable at a bike shop for the same price after upgrades? Maybe, but where’s the fun and personalization in that? Wouldn’t I want to personalize that too? Also, I’m able to appreciate and better understand each component and its function, so if I ever upgrade to a bike store bike, I will know exactly what I want/need. So far, I’m running Shimano MT200 brakes for $55, Box Four Shifter and Derailleur for ~$90, Raceface Atlas Bars for ~$80, and an Ergon SMC saddle for $90. Also, I’m 5’8 and I don’t feel like the size is an issue. The bars definitely helped with that. I’m trying to decide what’s next, or if I just want to ride it like this for a while. If you buy this bike with a learning/project mentality, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed. Also, I enjoy the dropper WAY more than I thought I would. It’s worth the investment. I had the money for a nice bike shop bike, but I just couldn’t bring myself to drop that kind of cash not knowing if I’d stick with the hobby. So far, the Axum has been a hell of a gateway drug.

[@echobenav8]

2019 Raceface Chester pedals are on clearance at REI for $40. Definitely a small worthwhile upgrade, made a big difference on my Axum.

[@markanthonymuniz6914]

Are you thinking about upgrading the fork ?

[@dannyboydeluxfromthebigitybay]

Just start with a fork. The fork one that bike looks like garbage and would break on most mountain single tracks.

[@YBMTB]

Honestly (just answering the title) Walmart bikes are useable, you need to make sure that things are tightened and not to be too crazy... But everything that I do is on a Walmart bike... It can handle my 10-12 foot jumps and 5-foot drops as well as blue and black downhill tech :D. Nonetheless, I hope to upgrade soon...

[@Fearborne]

As a kid who rode Walmart BMX bikes/bikes in general for almost my whole life, i can't agree with this more.

[@akronymus]

Well, some of these bikes are built in simple manner but still quite good, others are just pure crap.

[@johnr.8723]

I agree, Walmart bikes are fine! Some of these in-videos show too much rough riding to me! If you are riding for fun or exercise, then they are fine! If you ride a bike off cliffs, then yeah, it might not hold up! 😀