Rondo MUTT AL review

We had been eyeing the Rondo line-up for some time at Allo Velo bike shop in Montreal. Hanging from the brick walls of the shop they looked like art. Technically and visually they looked sharp and bold with their lines and graphics, but how would they perform? We decided to take the Rondo MUTT AL for a spin and see what this Polish bike brand was all about.

In one sentence the Rondo MUTT AL is a well-rounded versatility bike with its 650b tires and road bike responsiveness. It’s frame geometry and comfort, fit, handling and road-plus traction make it the ultimate long ride on the weekend and commute on weekday all-around riding machine. We wanted to test out this versatility and see if it handled multiple surfaces as well as it looked.

Geometry

All Rondo framesets include their unique TwinTip fork that allows the user to fine-tune the ride character of the bike. The fork has two axle positions. By choosing the “high” hole position the front of the bike will be lower and the trail shorter giving the bike a racier character and putting the rider in a more aggressive position. The “low ” position will raise the front of the bike and put the rider in a more upright stance, making the bike more stable.

The general geometry places the MUTT between a road bike and gravel bike and meant to be ridden on long and comfortable endurance style rides. I immediately felt super comfortable to bring this bike from the city streets onto small winding roads and beyond. The bike has a geometry that makes you want to ease in the saddle, sink into the drop bars, and put in some long miles.

Components

The MUTT AL is adventure-ready with its Rondo alloy 650B wheels on WTB road-plus tires (Horizon at the back and Byway at the front). These allow the rider to fly over the countryside, roll down easy forest trails or bring some fun to the next rando ride. The matching fenders look smart and are ideal to keep the commuter and randonneur dry. We did find there are some vibrations and noise from the mudguards on rougher roads though and needed some fine-tuning. (updated note: there is a recall on the front fender, contact your dealer for more info)

We find, as, on all Rondo bikes, the carbon twin tip fork allows it to have 2 geometries and behaviors by modifying the position of the front wheel. The frame and the fork are fitted with inserts for fitting racks for the longer weekend rides and overnighters. A nice bonus depending on your riding style.

With the Shimano Tiagra groupset, the double version of the FSA 48/32 crankset, and a Shimano 11 × 32 cassette there is enough drive to face long climbs and manage your efforts for long bike trips, even loaded in bikepacking mode. The Fabric saddle was also quite comfortable with a nice position for those long miles.

Visually, this bike is a head-turner and a complete success. The army green matte paint is superb. The matching mudguards are well integrated and surround the generously fitted 650 wheels. The bold design on the fork and little details make it special build.

This bike cannot play in the same category as a pure light road bike, but that’s not what it was meant for. The frame and fork assembly are responsive and jump in action as soon as you want to accelerate, launching it out of corners and down the straightaway. Downhill, we were able to ride confidently without being on the hydraulic brakes all the time, which are very easy to manoeuver and control. 

Conclusion

What stands out from this bike? First of all, its versatility. It's designed to be a stellar companion on long-distance rides and is perfect for this use: the position is comfortable but also sufficiently sporty. The 650bx47 tires are a plus for comfort and attack on any surface and can be a plus with a loaded bike. It is indeed a touring and urban bike in the best possible way, which allows everyone to use it as they wish. Overall the MUTT AL represents a well-thought-out, stylish, and fairly priced bike. No matter where you like to ride, this bike will fulfill your riding needs. 

Strengths

· Adjustable frame features

· Feel-good long-distance geometry

· Stability and control with the 650b wheels

· Stylish for the city and road

Weaknesses

· The fenders can be noisy and vibrate and could use some fine-tuning for the rough stuff

· Geometry not really meant for technical single track, but still fun on the gravel

· A little on the heavy side, but not a deal-breaker

PRICE
$2,799.00 CAD at Allo Velo

 For more information on the Rondo MUTT AL:
• rondo.cc
• Rondo in Montreal: Allo Velo bike shop