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Schwinn Women’s Phocus 1600 700C Drop Bar Road Bicycle Review

Be it for commuting, exercise or pleasure, having a custom-designed quality road bike will take your experience to a whole new level. The number of road bikes specifically designed for women is significantly lower compared to unisex or male models. These unisex models come with a number of components to allow for maximum modifications for a custom fit. While there are women who are contented with these, many still prefer an actual women’s bike with strategic features and designs fitted to better suit them.

With this in mind, Schwinn, an internationally celebrated giant in the bike manufacturing industry came up with a one of a kind female-focused model. They incorporated all the dimension of strength, style, and convenience in an elegant package by the name of Schwinn Women's Phocus 1600 700C Drop Bar Road Bicycle.

This machine comes with a number of features that you would otherwise have to break the bank to acquire. What’s more, though perfect for fitness and recreational riding, it may also be the one to get you the number one position in the local triathlon competition.  That said, let us delve into the features that make this such an amazing bike.

Weight:

Around 30 pounds

Frame:

Aluminum frame

Brake:

Alloy caliper brakes

Speed:

14  speed

Fork:

Carbon fiber fork

Available in:

Two sizes & two colors

Other Features:

Alloy rims with paired spokes, Safety straps with pedals, Alloy 3 piece crank

Attractive Features Of Schwinn Women's Phocus 1600 700C Road Bicycle:

Convenient Size And Weight:

The biggest complaint that female riders have with male and unisex bicycles is that they are too large. The Phocus 1600 has been designed with female measurements in mind. Its frames and handlebars are a custom fit for shorter arms and legs, providing a bike that doesn’t feel out of control and clunky. It comes in two sizes, 16" small and 16", to meet varying female needs. When fully equipped, each of them weighs about 30lbs. While not exactly the lightest, this weight is more than tolerable.

Very Sturdy Aluminum Frame:

The Phocus 1600 is made to last you a very long time. Thanks to its aluminum frame, the construction is stiff and sure to remain that way for a long time to come. For rough and slippery roads, the featured lightweight carbon fork comes in handy. It dampens the vibrations, making yours a very smooth ride.

Read: Best Schwinn Road Bikes Reviews – 5 Durable And Affordable Bikes Reviewed

Great Drivetrain And Gears:

The drivetrain featured on the Phocus 1600 is a mix of Shimano and Schwinn components for quick and easy gear shifting. This is enhanced by the rear Shimano Acera drivetrain with 14 which is connected to a brake lever shifter integrated into the heart of the system. This high-end derailleur prevents the much dreaded lag when you are shifting gears. Additionally, the drivetrain features the SR Suntour alloy crank to give you smooth access to a wider range of gears.

Schwinn Women’s Phocus 1600 700C Drop Bar Road Bicycle

Smooth-riding Wheels:

One unanimous complaint for all bikers, even those with high-end models, it the performance of the wheels on their units. Even though the wheels on the Phocus 1600 are not a generic brand, judging by customer reviews, they perform exceptionally well. With a 700c set of wheels, the bike was born and bred for most biker needs.

The rear wheel is fitted with extra spokes to give additional support while helping to withstand bumpy and rough roads. This further adds to the durability of the machine. Thanks to the aerodynamic design of the spokes, you will be able to reach speeds higher than you would expect out of it. Its tires are built in a way to provide both stability and speed. They have enough traction and help absorb vibrations and shock from the ground when you increase speed. 

You can have all the speed, efficiency, and convenience in a bike, but if the saddle doesn’t allow you to comfortably ride for long hours, then you have nothing at all. The saddle on the Phocus 1600 is very comfortable and comes with extra padding for long comfortable rides. This is especially of value as the aluminum frame featured in the bike is somewhat lacking when it comes to shock absorption.

The ability to adjust the seatpost without needing tools or assistance is another great aspect. With this, the Phocus 1600 allows you to fine-tune your pedal positions if need be. Its toe cages are also an improvement from the conventional flat pedals.

Brakes:

The brakes, according to almost every review, serve as the only drawback to this otherwise excellent unit. It comes with dual-pivot Promax brakes that are simple to operate from the drop down handlebars.

An issue common in most mid-range and lower-end bikes, the brakes that come with the Phocus 1600 don’t offer enough stopping power. Fortunately, there is a workaround for this as they are easily replaceable and widely available.

Available In Two Colors:

The availability of the bike in two colors is also a plus as most models don’t have this option. There is the Phocus 1600 light blue model, and the Phocus 1600 white model if you would rather have a more elegant design.

Are you looking for a single-speed bike then you can read: Best Fixie Bikes In 2021 – Read Our Review Before You Buy!

Additional Features:

The Phocus 1600 comes with a couple of additional features as well. On top of the more feminine paint color choices, it has a water bottle mount which comes in handy during longer rides. All these functions and features work seamlessly to create a versatile and reliable women’s road bike, suitable for everything ranging from triathlons to pleasure riding.

Assembly Information:

The Phocus 1600 comes as a preassembled package. All the main parts come intact and will need you to fix only the saddle, tires, pedals, front wheel, and handlebars. Included in the package is an Allen wrench to straighten the handlebars. Assuming you have all the basic tools at home, 30 minutes after you open the package, your bike will be ready to ride. However, it is advisable that you take it to the bike shop and have them check if you did everything right.

Important Features:

  • A considerable range of gears
  • Quality Wheels
  • 14 speed drivetrain
  • Quick-release front wheel
  • High-profile alloy rims and aerodynamic spokes
  • 16-inch aluminum frame
  • KMC-Z8 chain
  • Dual-pivotPromax brakes

Pros:

  • Compact and ergonomic
  • Shimano drivetrain
  • Super simple to assemble
  • Lightweight
  • Excels in both path and trails
  • Durable
  • No lag when switching gears
  • Convenient color choices

Cons:

  • The size may be a limitation for others
  • Low quality brake pads
  • Low quality pedal straps

Frequent Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. Does the bike come assembled? If not, how complicated is the procedure?

A. As abovementioned, the Phocus 1600 comes almost completely assembled. The only parts that you would need to assemble are the front wheel, handlebars, pedals, and tires, and saddle. It comes with simple-to-follow instructions so it won’t take much of your time even if it is your first bike.

Q. What types of shifters are on this bike?

A. The Phocus 1600 comes with Shimano Claris shifters.

Q. Which parts come with a quick release clamp?

A. Being a very convenient unit, every part, apart from the pedals and the handlebars, has a quick release clamp.

Final Word:

The Schwinn Women's Phocus 700C Road Bicycle is one of the most popular road bikes available. Partly, this is because it is from a renowned giant, Schwinn, but it is mostly because of its build quality, comfort features, and convenient price.

You can choose it to commute, exercise, or compete and you won’t go wrong, not to any degree. Apart from the issue with its brakes, everything on the Phocus 1600 works exceptionally well. It is perfect for anyone looking to try out road biking, but want something more than just an entry level bike.

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