The Kink Switch is a high-quality BMX bike that will undoubtedly help a BMX rider achieve their dreams. This bike weighs 27.9 pounds and costs $649. With a unique blend of durability, adaptability, and performance, it is a true game-changer for any street rider.
In the past, the Kink Switch has received commendable reviews for its robust design and superior ride quality. With the 2024 model, expectations are high. It is anticipated to uphold its reputation for superior performance while bringing in new enhancements to fit modern riders’ needs.
Overview
Kink Switch: Overview
Kink Switch: Overview
How Much Does the Kink Switch Weigh?
One of the key considerations for any BMX rider is the weight of their bike. The Kink Switch tips the scale at 27.9 pounds, striking a balance between being lightweight for aerial tricks and hefty enough for stable rides.
Is the Kink Switch Worth its Price?
When it comes to value for money, the Kink Switch impresses with its range of features and robust construction. At a price tag of $649, this BMX bike ensures you get a durable and versatile ride that will serve you for years.
Can You Customize the Kink Switch?
The Kink Switch stands out for its full upgradability and customization. Whether you want to enhance its performance or give it a personal touch, this bike provides you with the flexibility to make it truly yours.
What Accessories Does the Kink Switch Come With?
This BMX bike doesn’t just stop at offering high performance and customization, it also comes with two nylon pegs and a standard set of Mission U-brakes. However, one noticeable missing accessory is the Hub guards.
What Color Options Does the Kink Switch Offer?
The Kink Switch comes in a singular, sleek color option – gloss gravity gray. This cool, understated shade gives the bike a timeless and stylish look that suits every rider’s style.
Buying Advice
How to Choose the Right BMX Bike for You
How to Choose the Right BMX Bike for You
If you feel overwhelmed by the myriad of BMX bike options available, fear not! We offer a free bike recommendation for all our readers. You simply have to click the link and provide some basic information about yourself. From your height and skill level to your budget, we take everything into account to handpick three bikes perfect for you, saving you a ton of time in the process.
Request a free bmx bike recommendation
Why is the Correct Bike Size Essential?
It’s crucial to select a bike that fits your physical dimensions. For instance, my first BMX bike was too small for my height and weight. The result? It broke in only a few months. I want to save you from that disappointment and waste of money. So, ensure you get a bike that fits you just right.
Sizing & Geometry
Geometry and Sizing of the Kink Switch
What is the Geometry and Sizing of the Kink Switch?
The Kink Switch is a versatile bike with specific geometry designed for technical street riding. The bike features only one size option – a 20.75-inch top tube, perfectly suited for riders between 5’9″ and 6’0″. It’s essential to choose the correct bike size for your height to get the most out of your BMX experience.
| Toptube Size | Recommended Height (USA) | Recommended Height (Not USA) |
|---|---|---|
| 20.00″ | 4′ 10″ to 5′ 3″ | 1.47m to 1.60m |
| 20.25″ | 5′ 3″ to 5′ 6″ | 1.60m to 1.68m |
| 20.5″ | 5′ 6″ to 5′ 9″ | 1.68m to 1.75m |
| 20.75″ | 5′ 9″ to 6′ | 1.75m to 1.83m |
| 21″ | Over 6′ | Over 1.83m |
| 21.25″ | Way Over 6′ | Way Over 1.83m |
What are the Available Toptube Sizes for the Kink Switch?
The Kink Switch comes in one size – a 20.75-inch top tube. This size generally suits riders between the heights of 5’9″ and 6’0″.
What Frame and Part Geometries does the Kink Switch offer?
The Kink Switch is designed with unique frame and part geometries, creating a responsive, snappy ride. The frame features a 75.5-degree head tube angle, 9-inch standover height, a 12.75-inch chainstay, and an 11.6 bottom bracket height. The fork comes with a 26mm offset, and the handlebars are 9 inches tall, with an estimated width of about 30 inches. The bike is equipped with a top-load stem with a 32mm rise and 50mm reach.
| Name of Geometry | Spec | How it Feels |
|---|---|---|
| Head tube angle | 75.5 degree | This steeper angle makes the bike more responsive, offering a snappy feel. |
| Standover height | 9 inches | Standard standover height providing a balanced feel. |
| Chainstay length | 12.75 inches | A shorter chainstay contributes to the bike’s responsive and snappy feel. |
| Bottom bracket height | 11.6 inches | Standard bottom bracket height ensuring a comfortable ride. |
| Fork offset | 26mm | This offset brings the front wheel a bit closer, adding to the bike’s snappy feeling. |
The Kink Switch also features a 25-9 gear ratio with a 25-tooth sprocket and a 9-tooth driver, with everything located on the right-hand side making it a right-hand drive bike. Unique to the Kink Switch is the presence of a freecoaster, adding a new dimension to your street riding experience.
Quality
Quality and Durability of the Kink Switch
Quality and Durability of the Kink Switch
Is the Kink Switch built to last?
When assessing the longevity and resilience of a BMX bike, it’s imperative to scrutinize its core components. Here’s a brief overview of the key components of the Kink Switch and their corresponding quality:
| Component | Quality |
|---|---|
| Frame | Full Chromoly |
| Forks | Full Chromoly |
| Handlebars | Full Chromoly |
| Cranks | Full Chromoly (Three-piece Ace spline cranks) |
| Rims | Mission Mylar double-wall rims (with a pin seam instead of a welded seam) |
Why should you care about Chromoly?
Chromoly, short for chromium-molybdenum steel, is a high carbon steel that is lighter and more durable than traditional steel. In the BMX world, it’s the gold standard for high-end bikes. The Kink Switch’s fully Chromoly frame, forks, and handlebars, means that it’s constructed to withstand intensive riding and last longer than bikes made from high tensile steel. For those committed to street riding and searching for a bike that can endure the test of time, the Kink Switch fits the bill.
Pros & Cons
Highlights and Lowlights of the Kink Switch
Highlights and Lowlights of the Kink Switch
What Makes the Kink Switch Stand Out?
- Fully Chromoly Frame: The Kink Switch boasts a full chromoly frame, which offers superior strength compared to high tensile steel frames.
- Upgradable and Customizable: Every component on this BMX bike can be upgraded or customized to suit individual preferences.
- Accessories Included: The bike is fitted with two nylon pegs, providing enhanced functionality for street riding.
- Additional Components: Features like the kink bold hrd stem, aftermarket Kink Hemlock pedals, fully sealed bearings, and a robust 510 chain add to its appeal.
- Quality Score: With a score of 7.1 out of 10, this bike is recognized for its commendable quality.
Are There Any Shortcomings?
- Kink Sever Tires: The 2.4-inch Kink sever tires, though sturdy, tend to be on the heavier side and don’t offer optimal grip in parks.
Does the Kink Switch Have a Weight Limit?
The Kink Switch, with its impressive quality score, has an estimated weight limit of around 200 pounds. This means that for riders under this weight, the bike should serve reliably without much wear and tear. However, those nearing 250 pounds should keep a vigilant eye on certain components like pedals, sprockets, and cranks. It’s crucial to ensure these parts aren’t bending or displaying any anomalies. The message here is straightforward: While the bike is robust, its longevity might vary depending on the user’s weight. Investing in a high-quality bike like the Kink Switch can save riders from frequent and costly repairs in the long run.
Street, Park, or Dirt
Type of Riding: Park, Street, or Dirt
Is the Kink Switch Ideal for Park, Street, or Dirt Riding?
The Kink Switch, being specifically designed for street riding, brings a new dimension to BMX street performance. This full chromoly BMX bike is not only rugged but also comes fully customizable. The ability to adjust and upgrade this bike allows riders to morph its functionality according to their preferences.
How does the Kink Switch Perform in Different Riding Styles?
The Kink Switch naturally shines in street riding, given its design focus. However, it’s essential to remember that all parts on the bike are fully upgradable and customizable. This means you can adjust this bike to match your preferred riding style or experiment with different styles.
Customizing the Kink Switch for Different Riding Styles
While the Kink Switch comes optimized for street riding, you can tweak it to perform admirably in park and dirt settings as well. The bike’s flexibility is one of its strong suits, allowing riders to explore their skills in different terrains and scenarios.
Best Upgrades
Top Three Upgrades for the Kink Switch
Top Three Upgrades for the Kink Switch
As riders progress in their BMX journey, certain parts of the bike may require upgrading to handle new tricks or higher-intensity riding. Even the robust Kink Switch is no exception. Let’s delve into the top three upgrades that can improve its performance and enhance your riding experience.
1. Tires for Better Grip
The Kink Switch comes with 2.4 inch Kink Sever tires. They hold up decently for street riding, but they may not provide the ideal grip when riding park. Upgrading these tires could provide better traction and control, which are critical for executing tricks with precision.
2. Upgrade to 48-Spline Cranks
The Kink Switch features full chromoly, three-piece, eight-spline cranks. Although these are robust and reliable, upgrading to a 48-spline crankset can reduce the bike’s overall weight and offer a more solid feel. This could be a worthwhile upgrade if you’re a more aggressive rider and looking for an extra edge.
3. Front Hub Guards for Grinding
Interestingly, the Kink Switch includes two nylon pegs but lacks hub guards. If you’re interested in street riding and performing grind tricks, adding hub guards to your setup can protect the spokes and hubs from potential damage.
While the Kink Switch is a high-quality BMX bike out of the box, these upgrades can tailor it to your specific needs and riding style, ensuring you get the most out of every ride.
Similar Bikes
Comparing the Kink Switch With Other BMX Bikes
Comparing the Kink Switch With Other BMX Bikes
As we approach the end of our comprehensive review of the Kink Switch, it’s crucial to compare it with other models in the market. This will provide you a broader perspective and help you determine if the Kink Switch is indeed the perfect fit for you. Let’s take a closer look at how it measures up against other popular BMX bikes in the same price range.
- ✅ Two Pegs
- ✅ Responsive Geometry
- ✅ Full Chromoly
Comparing With Other Bikes in the Same Price Range
Sunday EX: The Sunday EX is more expensive than the Switch and it’s slightly worse quality. Despite that, the EX is a popular choice and one that might be better for you due to the multiple toptube options.
Fly Sion: The Sion is a good bike for riders who want to ride a little bit of street and park. Primarily, the Sion is better suited for park. It has a responsive geometry and comes with two pegs.
Kink Whip: The Whip is very similar the the Switch but comes in at a lower price. The Switch has more aggressive and responsive geometry with two pegs. The Whip is more mellow without any pegs.
Comparing With Other Bikes in the Kink Lineup
When it comes to the Kink lineup, the Switch stands out due to its unique geometry and specialized design for street riding. Other models in the Kink lineup like the Gap, Launch, Curb, and Whip have different geometries that make them more suited for other types of BMX riding. For example, the Whip has a longer chainstay and a more relaxed headtube angle, making it less snappy and more suitable for high-flow, fast riding.
Ultimately, the Kink Switch offers a unique value proposition within the Kink lineup, especially for riders who prioritize street riding.
Warranty
Does the Kink Switch have a warranty?
Does the Kink Switch have a warranty?
Understanding BMX Bike Warranties
Before purchasing any BMX bike, it’s always a wise decision to familiarize oneself with the warranty policy. A good warranty can be a sign of a brand’s trust in its product. But what about the Kink Switch?
Warranty Details for the Kink Switch
The Kink Switch, like other Kink BMX products, is covered under Kink’s warranty policy. If you head over to their official site, you can find all the specifics about their warranty offerings. Typically, frames, forks, and bars may have a certain duration of warranty against manufacturing defects.
One (1) year warranty against material defects, workmanship defects, breaks, cracks and defective or malfunctioning parts.
Regardless of the place of purchase, your bike must be assembled by a qualified bike shop. Assembling a Kink bike yourself, could void all warranty coverage.
Issues that are not covered after being built by a reputable bike shop include; stripped threads and/or rounded nuts, bent dropouts, bent axles, tires, tubes, grips, minor paint and cosmetic finishes, dents, rider abuse, misuse, neglect, or improper maintenance. The rider is also responsible for purchasing a bike appropriate to their riding level.
Why Buying from a Trusted Shop Matters
When it comes to BMX or any other sport, buying your equipment from a trusted shop is pivotal. Not only do reputable shops guarantee genuine products, but they also offer better post-purchase support. Personally, I always prefer buying from Danscomp. They’ve consistently shown their commitment to customer satisfaction and are quick to address any issues that might arise.
Tip: It’s not just about the product; the after-sales service is equally vital. Especially when it comes to niche markets like BMX, where expert guidance and support can make all the difference.
Final Thoughts
Conclusion
Conclusion
So, is the Kink Switch the bike for you? The honest truth from my perspective is that the Kink Switch is a solid choice for those who have a budget to match and a keen interest in street riding. Despite its slightly high-end cost of $649, the bike provides value in the form of full chromoly construction, double-wall rims, and handy accessories like two nylon pegs.
One of the key attractions of this bike is its fully customizable and upgradable nature. As a rider, you are not limited to the default setup but can improve upon the bike based on your preference and riding style. This adaptability becomes an asset, particularly for riders who seek a personalized touch in their biking experience.
However, the Kink Switch does not operate in isolation. The BMX market is evolving with many brands offering competitive products. It’s crucial for potential buyers to explore these alternatives before making a final decision. The value proposition of the Kink Switch seems strong, but only you can determine if it fits your riding style and budget.
Remember, the journey to finding the perfect bike can be daunting. If you need help, don’t hesitate to request a free bike recommendation. Simply share some basic information about yourself and get a list of three bikes that suit your height, skill level, and price range. It could save you a ton of time and eliminate guesswork from your decision-making process.
Lastly, if you have any questions about the Kink Switch or BMX in general, feel free to engage with our community. You can reach us at the BMX Nerds Discord or drop a question on the Community Page.
This Year vs. Last Year
Updates to Current Model Year
Model Year Updates
For the 2024 Kink Switch, there have been some significant improvements over the previous models. The bike maintains its reputation as a stellar street riding companion but introduces several enhancements that serve to further elevate its status. Let’s delve into the details.
Changes Throughout the Years
Each year, the brand may or may not introduce new changes to the model year. The most common change is new color options or a new color way. It is very rare that they have significant changes… but if they do, I’ll note them here.
2022 Switch
- Old Color Option
2023 Switch
- Gloss Gravity Grey
The only change from the 2022 model to the 2023 mode is a color update.
