The Schwinn Vantage RX1 might just be the bargain bike of the show. Coming in at just $1,599, there’s not a generic part to be found. Instead, you’ll find name brand bits from SRAM, Formula, Fizik, FSA, VP and more, plus a new flared drop bar to improved ergonomics. All hung on a custom butted alloy frame with carbon thru axle fork outfitted with SRAM Rival 22 and hydraulic disc brakes.
But what’s going to catch your eye first is the elastomer decoupler that separates seatstay forces from fully reaching the seatpost…
An elastomer between the seatstay and front triangle provides up to 15mm travel. That’s a max, it’s really there to damp vibrations and soften big hits. They offer different durometers – this one comes with firmer, and flat bar versions come with medium firmness.
Up front is the TransX AntiShock stem, which also uses an elastomer to provide a little cushion. It clamps to an alloy steerer tube, which transitions to carbon for the fork’s legs.
The bike has 45mm tire clearance, and it uses the FSA Gossamer road “disc” cranks that offer better chainstay clearance on bikes with the wider dropouts required to fit discs.
Hidden rack mounts make this one a capable commuter or even casual tourer. It’s rolling on Formula hubs laced to Alex rims with Continental Sport Contact II 700×35 tires. OK, so you do get Schwinn gel bar tape, alloy seatpost and their flared ergo handlebar, but they’re connected to a VP headset and Fizik Ponente saddle. Not a bad package for $1,599.
