Charge Plug Freestyler - photo review
 

So we decided to spring for a Charge Plug Freestyler, from Wiggle.

Some impressions to share:

Nice Tange cr-mo frame, not the lightest, but feels strong. I couldn't detect much flex, then again I'm 130 soaking wet, so perhaps heavier folks maybe better judges. We got the size small frame - which seems to match up somewhere in the 50-53cm range, depending on brand sizing.

http://imgcash1.imageshack.us/img29/258/chargeplug1.jpg

http://imgcash1.imageshack.us/img37/...hargeplug3.jpg


For what I see targeted as an "entry level" offering, the components are pretty nice. Sugino drivetrain, tektro brakes, velocity rims on formula hubs. In the specs, the hubs are described as "loose ball" bearings, but they feel darn smooth. The "charge" decals can be removed from the rims.

http://imgcash6.imageshack.us/img29/...geplugrims.jpg

http://imgcash5.imageshack.us/img195...geplughubs.jpg

http://imgcash2.imageshack.us/img41/...plugcranks.jpg

http://imgcash5.imageshack.us/img43/...lugbrakes2.jpg

The chain is Charge's version of BMX-style half link chains.

http://imgcash6.imageshack.us/img35/...hargeplug2.jpg

Handlebars are narrow riser bars, with "dirty harry" style levers. I prefer these for zipping around in downtown traffic, but not for longer rides.

http://imgcash6.imageshack.us/img37/...geplugbars.jpg

http://imgcash1.imageshack.us/img195...geplugstem.jpg

The frame has no bosses of any kind. It comes with metal clamps to secure the rear cable if you choose to run F&R brakes.

http://imgcash1.imageshack.us/img190...plugclamps.jpg

The saddle is the "Charge Stool" - scatological jokes welcome! I'd choose the Charge Spoon over this one...

The rear wheel comes with both freewheel & sprocket. It came meticulously packed from Wiggle, minimal assembly required.

All in all, a fun ride! For the price, I'd say that treefortbikes has a good deal going.

they're not.

i missed dutret