Conquer Any Terrain: A Comprehensive State Bicycle Thunderbird Review

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Get ready to hit the trails with the State Bicycle Thunderbird! Our review covers everything you need to know about this versatile bike.


Are you in search of a reliable and durable bike that can handle all kinds of terrains? Then look no further than the State Bicycle Thunderbird. This bike is designed to conquer any terrain, whether you're commuting to work or hitting the trails on the weekends. In this review, we'll dive deep into the features that make the Thunderbird stand out from other bikes on the market. From its lightweight frame to its high-quality components, we'll cover everything you need to know about this impressive bike.

First and foremost, let's talk about the frame. The Thunderbird features a 6061 aluminum frame that is both lightweight and strong. This means that you can easily maneuver the bike through rough terrain without feeling weighed down. Additionally, the frame is designed with a tapered headtube and a carbon fiber fork, which adds to the bike's overall stability and handling. Whether you're riding on pavement or dirt, the Thunderbird's frame will keep you in control.

Of course, a bike is more than just its frame. The components are what truly make a bike stand out from the crowd. The Thunderbird comes equipped with a Shimano Tiagra 10-speed drivetrain, which provides smooth and precise shifting. This is especially important when you're tackling steep hills or technical trails. You need a bike that can change gears quickly and smoothly, and the Thunderbird delivers on that front.

But what about the brakes? The Thunderbird features TRP Spyre-C mechanical disc brakes, which provide excellent stopping power in all kinds of weather conditions. Whether you're riding in the rain or blazing hot sun, you can trust that your brakes will work when you need them to. This is especially important when you're riding on off-road trails, where sudden stops are often necessary.

Now let's talk about the wheels. The Thunderbird comes equipped with tubeless-ready WTB tires, which are designed to handle all kinds of terrain. Whether you're riding on rocky trails or smooth pavement, these tires will give you the grip and stability you need to stay in control. Additionally, the wheels themselves are made from lightweight aluminum, which helps to reduce the overall weight of the bike.

Another feature that sets the Thunderbird apart from other bikes is its versatility. This bike is designed to be ridden on all kinds of terrain, from city streets to mountain trails. It comes with mounts for fenders and racks, so you can easily add accessories for commuting or touring. Additionally, the Thunderbird's geometry is designed to provide a comfortable and efficient ride, whether you're sitting upright or leaning forward for speed.

But what about the price? The Thunderbird is priced competitively, making it an excellent value for anyone in search of a high-quality bike. You get top-of-the-line components and a durable frame at a price that won't break the bank. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just starting out, the Thunderbird is a great option for anyone in search of a reliable and versatile bike.

In conclusion, the State Bicycle Thunderbird is an excellent choice for anyone in search of a reliable and versatile bike. With its lightweight frame, high-quality components, and affordable price, it's no wonder that this bike has become a favorite among cyclists of all levels. Whether you're commuting to work or hitting the trails on the weekends, the Thunderbird will help you conquer any terrain with ease.


Introduction

If you're looking for an affordable, versatile, and stylish bike that can handle a variety of terrains, the State Bicycle Thunderbird might be just what you need. This bike is designed for off-road adventures, but it's also great for commuting, touring, and fitness riding. In this review, we'll take a closer look at the Thunderbird's features, performance, and value.

Design and Build

The State Bicycle Thunderbird has a sleek and modern design that combines classic and contemporary elements. The frame is made of 4130 chromoly steel, which is lightweight, durable, and responsive. The Thunderbird comes in two color options: matte black with silver accents or matte red with black accents. The bike features a tapered head tube, a carbon fiber fork, and a 27.2mm seat post. The Thunderbird has clearance for up to 700x47c tires, which allows you to tackle rough terrain with ease.

Components and Features

The State Bicycle Thunderbird comes with a range of components and features that make it a great value for the price. The bike is equipped with a Shimano Claris 2x8 drivetrain, which provides smooth shifting and reliable performance. The Thunderbird also has mechanical disc brakes, which offer excellent stopping power in all weather conditions. The bike has a set of 31.8mm drop bars, which provide a comfortable and stable riding position. The Thunderbird comes with a set of WTB STP i23 rims and WTB Nano 700x40c tires, which are perfect for off-road adventures.

Performance

The State Bicycle Thunderbird is a versatile and capable bike that performs well on a variety of terrains. Whether you're riding on gravel, dirt, or pavement, the Thunderbird delivers a smooth and responsive ride. The bike's Shimano Claris drivetrain is reliable and easy to use, and the mechanical disc brakes provide excellent stopping power. The Thunderbird's drop bars offer a comfortable and stable riding position, and the WTB Nano tires provide plenty of traction on loose or rough surfaces.

Comfort and Fit

The State Bicycle Thunderbird is designed for comfort and versatility. The bike's drop bars provide a comfortable and stable riding position, and the 27.2mm seat post helps absorb shock and vibration. The Thunderbird's frame geometry is optimized for off-road riding, but it's also great for commuting, touring, and fitness riding. The bike comes in five sizes, which means you can find the perfect fit for your body type and riding style.

Value

The State Bicycle Thunderbird is an excellent value for the price. The bike comes with a range of high-quality components and features that make it a versatile and capable machine. The Thunderbird's 4130 chromoly steel frame is lightweight, durable, and responsive, and the Shimano Claris drivetrain and mechanical disc brakes provide reliable performance. The Thunderbird's WTB Nano tires and carbon fiber fork make it a great choice for off-road adventures, but it's also great for commuting, touring, and fitness riding.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • versatile and capable design
  • high-quality components and features
  • affordable price point
  • comfortable and stable riding position

Cons:

  • limited color options
  • may not be suitable for extreme off-road terrain

Conclusion

The State Bicycle Thunderbird is a versatile, capable, and stylish bike that offers excellent value for the price. Whether you're looking for a bike to tackle off-road adventures, commute to work, or stay fit, the Thunderbird is a great choice. With its high-quality components, comfortable riding position, and sleek design, the Thunderbird is sure to become your go-to bike for all your cycling needs.


Introduction to State Bicycle Thunderbird

State Bicycle Thunderbird is a cyclocross bike that has been designed for off-road cycling. It is a versatile bike that can perform well on different terrains, including dirt, gravel, and mud. The bike is ideal for those who love adventure and want to explore different trails and paths.The bike is equipped with high-quality components and has a sturdy frame that can withstand the harsh conditions of off-road cycling. It is available in different sizes, which makes it suitable for riders of different heights and body types.In this article, we will review the State Bicycle Thunderbird in detail and discuss its design, build quality, components, riding experience, comfort, ergonomics, handling, maneuverability, performance on different terrains, maintenance, and upkeep. We will also compare it with other similar bikes and provide our final thoughts on the bike.

Design and Build Quality of State Bicycle Thunderbird

The State Bicycle Thunderbird has a sleek and modern design that is both stylish and functional. The bike has a lightweight aluminum frame that is strong and durable. The frame has been designed to absorb shocks and vibrations, which makes it ideal for off-road cycling.The bike has a carbon fork that provides additional strength and stiffness to the frame. The fork also helps to absorb shocks and vibrations, which improves the overall ride quality of the bike.The bike has a flat top tube that provides ample clearance for the rider to dismount and remount the bike quickly. The bike also has a tapered head tube that enhances the bike's stability and handling.The bike's build quality is excellent, and all the components are of high quality. The bike has been designed to withstand the harsh conditions of off-road cycling, and it does so with ease.

Components of State Bicycle Thunderbird

The State Bicycle Thunderbird is equipped with high-quality components that enhance its performance and reliability. The bike has a 1x11 drivetrain that provides a wide range of gears, making it suitable for different terrains.The bike has hydraulic disc brakes that provide excellent stopping power, even in wet and muddy conditions. The brakes are also easy to modulate, which gives the rider better control over the bike.The bike has tubeless-ready wheels that can be set up without tubes for a smoother ride and better traction. The wheels are also lightweight, which improves the bike's overall performance.The bike has a comfortable saddle that provides adequate support to the rider. The saddle is also adjustable, which allows the rider to find the perfect position for their body type.

Riding Experience with State Bicycle Thunderbird

The State Bicycle Thunderbird provides an excellent riding experience, whether you're on dirt, gravel, or mud. The bike is responsive and agile, which makes it easy to maneuver through tight turns and technical sections.The bike's lightweight frame and components make it easy to accelerate and maintain speed, while the carbon fork helps to absorb shocks and vibrations, improving the ride quality.The hydraulic disc brakes provide excellent stopping power, which gives the rider more confidence when going downhill or navigating technical sections. The bike's 1x11 drivetrain provides a wide range of gears, which makes it easy to tackle steep climbs or fast descents.

Comfort and Ergonomics of State Bicycle Thunderbird

The State Bicycle Thunderbird has been designed with comfort and ergonomics in mind. The bike's saddle provides adequate support to the rider, and the handlebars are positioned in a way that allows the rider to maintain a comfortable and natural position.The bike's frame geometry is also designed to provide a comfortable and efficient riding position. The bike has a flat top tube that provides ample clearance for the rider to dismount and remount the bike quickly.The bike's carbon fork helps to absorb shocks and vibrations, which improves the overall ride quality of the bike. The bike's tubeless-ready wheels also provide a smoother ride and better traction, which reduces fatigue and improves comfort.

Handling and Maneuverability of State Bicycle Thunderbird

The State Bicycle Thunderbird has excellent handling and maneuverability, which makes it easy to navigate through tight turns and technical sections. The bike is agile and responsive, which gives the rider more control over the bike.The bike's lightweight frame and components make it easy to accelerate and maintain speed, while the carbon fork helps to absorb shocks and vibrations, improving the bike's stability and handling.The bike's tapered head tube also enhances its stability and handling, which gives the rider more confidence when navigating technical sections or going downhill.

Performance of State Bicycle Thunderbird on Different Terrains

The State Bicycle Thunderbird performs well on different terrains, including dirt, gravel, and mud. The bike's 1x11 drivetrain provides a wide range of gears, which makes it suitable for steep climbs or fast descents.The bike's hydraulic disc brakes provide excellent stopping power, even in wet and muddy conditions, which gives the rider more confidence when going downhill or navigating technical sections.The bike's tubeless-ready wheels also provide better traction and a smoother ride, which improves the bike's performance on different terrains. The bike's carbon fork also helps to absorb shocks and vibrations, which improves the overall ride quality of the bike.

Maintenance and Upkeep of State Bicycle Thunderbird

The State Bicycle Thunderbird is easy to maintain and requires minimal upkeep. The bike's high-quality components are durable and reliable, which reduces the need for frequent repairs or replacement.The bike's hydraulic disc brakes are also easy to maintain and require minimal adjustment. The bike's tubeless-ready wheels are easy to set up and maintain, which reduces the need for frequent tire replacements.

Comparison of State Bicycle Thunderbird with Other Similar Bikes

The State Bicycle Thunderbird is a versatile and reliable cyclocross bike that performs well on different terrains. It is comparable to other similar bikes in terms of performance, handling, and components.The Specialized Crux is another popular cyclocross bike that is comparable to the State Bicycle Thunderbird. The Crux also has a lightweight frame, hydraulic disc brakes, and a 1x11 drivetrain. However, it is more expensive than the Thunderbird.The Giant TCX is another similar bike that is comparable to the Thunderbird. The TCX also has a lightweight frame, hydraulic disc brakes, and a 1x11 drivetrain. However, it is slightly heavier than the Thunderbird.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts on State Bicycle Thunderbird

The State Bicycle Thunderbird is a versatile and reliable cyclocross bike that performs well on different terrains. The bike's high-quality components, lightweight frame, and excellent handling make it an ideal choice for off-road cycling.The bike's carbon fork helps to absorb shocks and vibrations, which improves the overall ride quality of the bike. The bike's hydraulic disc brakes provide excellent stopping power, even in wet and muddy conditions, which gives the rider more confidence when navigating technical sections or going downhill.The bike is also easy to maintain and requires minimal upkeep. Overall, the State Bicycle Thunderbird is an excellent choice for those who want a reliable and versatile cyclocross bike that can handle different terrains with ease.

State Bicycle Thunderbird Review

Overview

The State Bicycle Thunderbird is a versatile gravel bike that is perfect for those who love to explore off-road trails and dirt roads. It comes in two different frame materials – aluminum and steel – and four different sizes, so you can find the perfect fit for your body type.

Pros

  • The State Bicycle Thunderbird is extremely affordable for a gravel bike, with prices starting at just $899.
  • It comes with a carbon fork, which helps to absorb shock and provide a smoother ride.
  • The bike has plenty of clearance for wider tires, which makes it perfect for off-road adventures.
  • The geometry of the bike is designed to be comfortable and stable, even on rough terrain.
  • The bike is available in four different sizes, so you can find the perfect fit for your body type.

Cons

  • The bike doesn't come with a dropper seatpost, which can make it difficult to adjust your seating position on-the-fly.
  • The bike doesn't come with a lot of accessories or extras, so you may need to purchase additional items separately.
  • The aluminum frame version of the bike can be quite heavy compared to other gravel bikes on the market.

Comparison with Similar Bikes

The State Bicycle Thunderbird is a great option for those who are looking for an affordable gravel bike that can handle off-road adventures. Here's how it stacks up against two similar bikes:

State Bicycle Thunderbird Salsa Journeyman Cannondale Topstone
Price $899+ $899+ $1,000+
Frame Material Aluminum/Steel Aluminum/Carbon Aluminum/Carbon
Tire Clearance Up to 700x45c or 650bx2.1 Up to 700x50c or 650bx2.1 Up to 700x42c or 650bx48mm
Weight 22-27 lbs 22-27 lbs 20-25 lbs
Accessories Minimal Minimal Minimal

Overall, the State Bicycle Thunderbird is a great value for the price and is a solid option for those who are just starting out with gravel biking or who want a versatile bike that can handle a variety of terrain.


Conclusion: State Bicycle Thunderbird Review

Thank you for taking the time to read our review of the State Bicycle Thunderbird. We hope that this article has provided you with valuable insights into this bike and helped you make an informed decision about whether it's the right fit for you.

Overall, we were highly impressed with the State Bicycle Thunderbird. Its sleek design, high-quality components, and exceptional performance make it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and versatile gravel bike.

The Thunderbird's aluminum frame is lightweight and durable, providing a stable and responsive ride on all types of terrain. The bike's SRAM Apex 1x11 drivetrain offers smooth and efficient shifting, while its hydraulic disc brakes provide reliable stopping power even in wet or muddy conditions.

One of the standout features of the Thunderbird is its wide tire clearance, which allows you to easily switch between different tire sizes depending on the terrain you're riding on. This versatility makes the Thunderbird an ideal choice for gravel riders who want a bike that can handle a variety of different terrains and conditions.

If you're in the market for a new gravel bike and value quality, performance, and versatility, we highly recommend giving the State Bicycle Thunderbird a try. It's a great option for both experienced and novice riders alike, and its affordable price point makes it accessible to a wide range of budgets.

Another thing we love about State Bicycle is their commitment to sustainability. The company uses eco-friendly packaging materials and partners with One Tree Planted to plant a tree for every bike sold. So not only are you getting a great bike, but you're also supporting a company that cares about the environment.

Whether you're planning a long-distance bikepacking trip or just want to explore some local gravel roads, the State Bicycle Thunderbird is an excellent choice that won't let you down. We hope you found this review helpful and wish you all the best on your cycling adventures!


People Also Ask About State Bicycle Thunderbird Review

1. What is the State Bicycle Thunderbird?

The State Bicycle Thunderbird is a gravel bike that's designed for off-road adventures. It features a lightweight aluminum frame, carbon fork, and wide tires that can handle any terrain.

2. Is the State Bicycle Thunderbird good for beginners?

Yes, the State Bicycle Thunderbird is a great bike for beginners. It's easy to ride and has a comfortable geometry that's suitable for long rides. The bike also comes with a range of gears that make it easy to tackle hills and rough terrain.

3. What size should I get?

The size you should get depends on your height and inseam. You can use the State Bicycle Thunderbird size chart to find the right size for you. If you're between sizes, it's usually best to size down.

4. How does the State Bicycle Thunderbird handle on rough terrain?

The State Bicycle Thunderbird is a great bike for rough terrain. It has wide tires that provide plenty of traction, and the carbon fork helps to absorb shocks. The bike also has a stable geometry that makes it easy to handle on uneven surfaces.

5. Is the State Bicycle Thunderbird good for commuting?

The State Bicycle Thunderbird is not specifically designed for commuting, but it can be used for that purpose. It has mounts for racks and fenders, so you can easily add those accessories if you need them. The bike also has a comfortable geometry that's suitable for long rides.

6. What's the weight of the State Bicycle Thunderbird?

The weight of the State Bicycle Thunderbird varies depending on the size and components. The smallest size weighs around 22 pounds, while the largest size weighs around 25 pounds.

7. How easy is it to assemble the State Bicycle Thunderbird?

The State Bicycle Thunderbird comes partially assembled, but you'll need to do some work to get it road-ready. You'll need to attach the handlebars, front wheel, pedals, and saddle. The bike comes with all the necessary tools, and the process should take around 30-60 minutes.