Diamondback 2013 Interval Elite Performance Hybrid Bike Review

The Diamondback 2013 Interval Elite is a full-featured performance hybrid bike with both the physical capacity and innovative sophistication to handle the demands of multiple uses with ease.

Key Specs

Brand: Diamondback

Type: Hybrid

Model: Interval Elite

Gender: Mens

No. of Gears: 20 gears (2×10)

Brakes: Linear pull brakes

Frame Sizes: S (15″), M (17″), L (19″), XL (21″)

Weight: 25 Pounds

Assembly: Light

Ideal for: Road, Light Off Road

Price: $768.99 – $784.93 as at July, 2014

Model for other sex: DiamondBack 2013 Women’s Interval Elite

Pros

• The bike is a light weight
• Perfect hybrid for commuting, tri training or long road rides
• The Shimano gearing system gives this bike a lot of versatility with regard to speed
• The alloy frame used to make the bike is very durable, and will stand up to demanding cycling demands without a problem
• The saddle is very comfortable, which is great when traveling long distances
• Aero handlebars allow for multiple riding positions

Cons

• Hit and miss if the package comes with tools for assembly
• Most rides change the tires soon after purchase
• Narrow road tires makes it less comfortable off road
• Handlebars can be wide for some riders
• Diamondback generic setup instructions can be difficult for a novice

Verdict

The Diamondback 2013 Interval Elite is a full-featured performance hybrid bike with both the physical capacity and innovative sophistication to handle the demands of multiple uses with ease. This bike is very light at just 25 pounds which is not made considering it isn’t a carbon fiber frame. The bike offers a lot of comfort to riders with the aero bars providing multiple riding positions to streamline your ride, which makes it ideal if you intend to use for extended cycling sessions. Don’t like the handlebars? No worries. You can easily replace them with 1 bolt. You can literally use this bike for tens of miles without a break without feeling uncomfortable on a road terrain. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at the easability to get up to high speeds with the 105 Shimano gearing system.

DiamondBack 2013 Interval Elite General Info

With the growing demand for versatile bikes, hybrid bikes have become a popular choice for many cyclists. In general, this bike seeks to offer some of the best features that riders could expect of a great hybrid bike. This model is constructed using high quality components. Furthermore, it offers great ergonomic efficiency and can resist corrosion.

Specifications

• Alloy Geometry Frame with integrated Headtube
• Shimano Tiagra 10-speed shifters
• Shimano 105 derailleurs (front and rear)
• 20h frt/ 24h rear Rim – FSA VERO Compact N10 50, 34t 10spd rings Cranks
• 700 x 23c Kenda Kontender tires

Key Features

Alloy performance Frame

This frame is especially constructed to offer the best ability for all kinds of terrains. This means that it is strong enough to handle tough terrains without feeling the strain.

Tetro Linear Pull Brakes

In addition to the easy control the brakes offer, they also stand out for their effectiveness. Therefore, you can be sure that the bike will stop precisely when you want it to stop.

Hybrid Gel Saddle

Comfort is a key feature in this bike, an aspects which rests most heavily on the ergonomically designed gel seat the bike features.

105 Shimano System

If you like to go fast then this bike is for you. The easy shift gears will have you speeding along your commute effortlessly.

Customer Feedback

Many customers compliment the bike on its great value proposition, which makes this effective hybrid hard to resist. Additionally, the broad range of features this bike offers, especially their quality, has won the hearts of many riders. For instance, the bike is very comfortable, consists of high-quality components, and is quite easy to assemble. Even for people seeking to use the bike strictly for city cycling, the bike has proven to be a great bargain.

A number of users have had an issue with the manual, which though helpful, is not very detailed. Consequently, some buyers might need to seek professional assistance before the bike is optimally functional. Nevertheless, once the bike has been put together, you will have no doubts as to its alleged superior performance.

Q&As

Question: How much does the bike weigh?

A: My Large model weighs 25 pounds without the handlebar add-on, with the added weight of a 40 mm handlebar raiser (don’t know the weight of it, but it must be less than 0.5 pounds.

Question: What size is the bike (Diamondback 2013 Interval Performance Hybrid) shipping box?

A: 52 x 27 x 8 inches

Question: Diamondback 2013 Interval Elite Performance Hybrid Bike – Can the bike be fitted with 700 x 32 tires? Have need to carry load and take it off-road once in a while.

A: Just wondering if you bought this bike and successfully put 32’s on the bike? I just saw my friends tires and 23’s are way too skinny! Not to mention I’d bet you’d feel EVERY piece of dirt. I’d like to know before I commit.

A: You can put them on but check tube to see if they go to the 32 size it will slow the bike down the 26 roll much faster on my bike it put the Micheline city tire with reflective side wall they are good tire just a little heavy 1 pinch flat in the rear 1000 mile they look and handle great rain or dry.

Question: What size frame for a 6’2” 210 lbs male? L or XL

A: You can go to the Diamondback site, plug in your height and inseam, and it will give you their recommendation. I’d (just about) bet if you have a 34 or longer inseam, you’d be well served with the XL. I was on the bubble, went L and sometimes wish I’d gone XL. It’s pretty decent bike. 105 is a long proven gearing system.

Accessories that help

This performance hybrid is designed more for road riding than trails, but you can consider a few alterations to enable you to make good use of your Interval Elite off road. 700x32c tires will help to make the bumps less noticeable and if may want to consider upgrading to disc brakes if you feel its necessary. Many riders consider the handlebars to be quite wide, so swap them out for something more your style. It only takes 1 bolt and you’re ready to install a new version.

In Conclusion

The simple answer as to whether the Diamondback 2013 Interval Elite lives up to the hype is yes. The bike has strength, comfort, and efficiency; all of which add to its suitability to its versatile hybrid role. The main components are sourced from reputable manufacturers, and are quite top-range for a bike within this price range. If a good value proposition is a priority for you as you shop for a hybrid bike within this price bracket, you should definitely go with the 2013 Interval Hybrid Bike.

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