The Kink Curb is a low-quality BMX bike that will not particularly help a BMX rider achieve their dreams. This bike weighs 27.3 pounds, and costs $379. Yet, if you’re on a tight budget and are just starting out, it may offer you a chance to get your feet wet in the BMX world.
In the past, Kink Curb bikes have been known for their affordability rather than their performance or durability. For the 2024 model, we’re hoping to see some upgrades in the quality department.
Overview
5 Common Questions
The Kink Curb: An Overview
How Much Does The Kink Curb Weigh?
The Kink Curb weighs 27.3 pounds. This weight is pretty standard for BMX bikes and is a crucial factor when performing tricks or stunts as it affects your bike control and maneuverability.
What’s The Price Tag on the Kink Curb?
The Kink Curb is priced at $379. For a beginner level BMX bike, this is a relatively affordable option, however, keep in mind that its low price tag also comes with a few compromises in terms of component quality.
Can You Customize and Upgrade The Kink Curb?
Yes, you absolutely can! The Kink Curb is fully customizable and upgradable. However, one aspect to bear in mind is the unsealed bearings used in this bike. They could potentially cause issues when upgrading certain parts.
Does the Kink Curb Come with Any Notable Accessories or Add-ons?
Unfortunately, the Kink Curb doesn’t come with any pegs or hub guards. However, you can definitely add these accessories, but you’ll have to buy them separately.
What Color Options Does the Kink Curb Offer?
The Kink Curb comes in four color options: Matte Midnight Black, Gold Leaf, Alps Blue, and Mika Green. Choose the one that best reflects your style and personality.
Buying Advice
How to Choose the Right BMX Bike for You
How to Choose the Right BMX Bike for You
Why should you consider a free bike recommendation?
Choosing the right BMX bike is crucial to your enjoyment and progress in the sport. But with so many choices available, it can quickly become overwhelming. That’s where I come in. To make your life a lot easier, I offer a free bike recommendation for my subscribers. All you have to do is click this link, tell me a bit about yourself, and I’ll find three bikes that are perfect for you. Instead of wading through 80 different BMX bikes, you’ll have just three handpicked choices to consider.
Why is buying a bike of the correct size so important?
Choosing the right size is paramount in BMX. I learnt this the hard way when I started out with a bike that was too small and low quality for my weight. It ended up breaking in only a few months. This Kink Curb is designed for smaller riders, specifically those between five foot and five foot three. If you fall outside of this range, the bike may still work for you, but it won’t be optimal.
Sizing & Geometry
Understanding the Kink Curb Geometry and Sizing
Understanding the Kink Curb Geometry and Sizing
In the BMX world, the geometry and sizing of a bike are vital aspects to consider when purchasing. The Kink Curb, while available in only one size, does offer variations in color and geometry, shaping how the bike performs and feels under different riders.
| 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 top tube sizes and corresponding rider heights?
The Kink Curb is available in a single top tube size, specifically 20 inches. This size is ideally suited for riders between 5 feet and 5 feet 3 inches tall. Although riders outside of this height range can ride the bike, it won’t deliver the optimum performance that it could for those within the recommended height bracket.
What about the frame geometries?
Let’s delve deeper into the bike’s specific frame geometries, as they greatly influence the bike’s overall feel and handling.
| Name of the Geometry | Spec | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Head Tube Angle | 74.5 degrees | A more mellow angle that enhances stable and controlled steering, ideal for beginner riders. |
| Standover Height | 8.5 inches | A tad lower than most BMX bikes, contributing to a unique feel and aesthetic. |
| Chain Stay Length | 13.2 inches | Standard length that ensures balanced handling. |
| Bottom Bracket Height | 11.6 inches | Standard height that complements the bike’s overall geometry. |
What about the Kink Curb’s part geometries?
Components of the bike also have their unique geometries. Let’s examine them more closely.
| Part Name | Geometry Spec |
|---|---|
| Fork Offset | 32mm |
| Handlebars | 8.75 inches tall |
| Stem | Rise of 32mm and Reach of 50mm |
| Gear Ratio | 25:9 |
Note: The width of the handlebars is unknown, but a rough estimate puts them at around 30 inches wide. It’s crucial to consider these part geometries as they directly impact how the bike handles and reacts under different conditions.
Quality
Quality and Durability of the Kink Curb
Quality and Durability of the Kink Curb
Is the Kink Curb durable and long-lasting? The main components of a BMX bike play a crucial role in determining its lifespan and resilience to varying levels of riding. It’s always in your best interest to get the highest quality bike within your budget. Let’s dive into the quality of the main components of the Kink Curb.
The Frame, Forks, and Handlebars
What’s the Kink Curb made of? The Kink Curb’s frame, forks, and handlebars are made from high tensile steel, as shown in the table below. High tensile steel, as the graph indicates, is the lowest quality material you’re likely to find in a BMX bike. If you can afford it, I would highly recommend a bike with full chromoly or aftermarket chromoly parts. But if high tensile steel is all your budget permits, it might just be the best you can do.
| Part | Material |
|---|---|
| Frame | High Tensile Steel |
| Forks | High Tensile Steel |
| Handlebars | High Tensile Steel |
The Cranks
What are the cranks made of on the Kink Curb? The bike’s cranks are full chromoly with eight splines, which, although not the highest quality option, should last you a decent amount of time given that they’re chromoly. However, keep in mind that eight spline cranks are generally heavier than others.
The Rims
What are the rims like on the Kink Curb? The rims on the Kink Curb are single wall, both front and back. These are not the most durable choice for a bike and may not withstand heavy or rough use.
High Tensile Steel vs Chromoly
Why should you choose chromoly over high tensile steel? High tensile steel is generally weaker and heavier than chromoly. Therefore, chromoly is a more suitable material for BMX bikes as it can withstand high stress from jumps, tricks, or rough terrains better. However, it tends to be more expensive. If your budget allows it, always go for chromoly for a longer-lasting, more reliable BMX experience.
Pros & Cons
Highlights and Lowlights of the Kink Curb
Highlights and Lowlights of the Kink Curb
Let’s dive into the particulars of the Kink Curb to grasp its standout features and areas of concern:
Standout Features
- The Kink Curb comes with Kink Hemlock pedals, an aftermarket inclusion, adding a little more value to the bike. These are not ultra-premium pedals, but they certainly surpass what you would find on typical entry-level bikes.
Potential Upgrades and Lowlights
- The bike incorporates a weak 410 chain, which might need replacement sooner than higher quality options.
- While the bike includes brakes, they are non-removable. This could be a downside for riders who prefer a cleaner look without brakes.
- The bottom bracket, headset, and hubs are all unsealed on the Kink Curb, which means these parts could wear out more quickly and may need maintenance more frequently.
- It features a seat and seat post combo instead of a pivotal seat and seat post, which could affect rider comfort and personal preference.
- Notably, no pegs or hub guards are included with the bike, so riders interested in these features will have to purchase them separately.
The Kink Curb has a quality score of 1.2 out of 10, which confirms its position as a lower-end BMX bike. That’s not to say it’s not a good bike for beginners or younger riders, but it might not withstand the demands of heavier or more aggressive riders.
Does the Kink Curb Have a Weight Limit?
The Kink Curb has a weight limit of 130lbs. The low quality components will not hold up for a rider over this weight. Instead look for a bmx bike with full chromoly.
In terms of weight limit, this bike is best suited for riders up to 130 pounds. Heavier riders might want to consider investing in a higher quality bike with longer-lasting part upgrades and superior materials. This would not only ensure better ride quality but also potentially save money in the long run. As the old saying goes, buy cheap, buy twice.
Street, Park, or Dirt?
Kink Curb Riding Style: Park, Street, or Dirt?
Kink Curb Riding Style: Park, Street, or Dirt?
When discussing the Kink Curb’s scores in different riding styles, it’s important to remember that this bike is adaptable. It’s fully upgradable, allowing riders to modify and enhance parts to better fit their preferred style of BMX. So, while the bike may have certain inherent traits, it doesn’t have to limit your aspirations.
How Does the Kink Curb Score in Various Riding Styles?
The Kink Curb is best suited for Park and Dirt riding as mentioned in the video. While street riding might be possible, it’s not the bike’s strong suit based on its initial setup. Remember, every BMX bike has different strengths, and recognizing these can help you make the most of your riding experience.
Customizing the Kink Curb to Suit Different Riding Styles
Despite the Kink Curb being primarily suited for park and dirt riding, its full customizability enables riders to transform it according to their needs. Whether you prefer street, park, or dirt riding, you can adjust and upgrade the Kink Curb to align with your riding style. Always remember, the key is in choosing the right upgrades. So, think carefully about what changes will bring you closer to your dream BMX experience.
Best Upgrades
Top Three Upgrades for the Kink Curb
Top Three Upgrades for the Kink Curb
Even the most novice riders know that not all BMX bikes are perfect right out of the box. When it comes to the Kink Curb, there are certain areas that could use some improvement for an enhanced riding experience. Here, we have identified the top three upgrades that could significantly elevate the performance and feel of the Kink Curb.
Upgrade 1: Sealed Bearings
One of the key areas that can improve the performance of the Kink Curb is upgrading its unsealed bearings. Unsealed bearings are susceptible to dirt and damage, which can hinder the bike’s performance over time. Investing in sealed bearings would not only increase the bike’s durability but also its smoothness and efficiency on the tracks.
Upgrade 2: Higher Quality Rims
The Kink Curb comes with single-wall rims, which aren’t the best for enduring the demands of BMX riding. Upgrading to double-wall rims will provide a significant increase in durability. They will be less prone to denting or warping, a crucial factor for those practicing jumps or tricks.
Upgrade 3: Add Pegs and Hub Guards
The Kink Curb doesn’t come with any pegs or hub guards. For riders planning to venture into street BMX, where grinding is common, these additions will be beneficial. Pegs allow for more trick options and hub guards protect the bike’s hubs from damage when grinding. Remember, these components may be purchased separately and installed on your bike.
While the Kink Curb is a viable option for beginners, these upgrades can drastically enhance its performance, making your rides smoother and more exciting. Always remember that the quality of your BMX ride isn’t solely determined by the bike you choose initially, but also by how you adapt it to suit your style and needs.
Similar Options
How Does the Kink Curb Compare with Other BMX Bikes?
How Does the Kink Curb Compare with Other BMX Bikes?
When deciding on a BMX bike, you don’t want to just focus on one option. There are several other bikes in the same price range or with similar features that you may want to consider.
BMX Bikes Within the Same Price Range
In the price range of the Kink Curb, there are several competitors, such as the Mongoose Legion series or the Fit PRK. While each of these bikes has its own strengths and weaknesses, they offer a comparison point to better understand the value offered by the Kink Curb.
BMX Bikes With Similar Features
Several bikes also boast similar features to the Kink Curb. For example, the Subrosa Tiro and the Cult Access also feature high tensile steel frames. By comparing these bikes, you can get a better understanding of the quality and durability that the Kink Curb may offer.
BMX Bikes for Beginner Riders
If you are a beginner rider looking for your first BMX bike, bikes such as the Fit Series One and the Subrosa Letum could also be good options to consider. They also have high tensile steel components, but come with some additional features that may make the learning process smoother.
In conclusion, it’s always wise to consider other bikes before making your final decision. This will help you ensure that you choose a bike that best fits your individual needs, budget, and riding style.
Warranty
Does the Kink Curb Have a Warranty?
Does the Kink Curb Have a Warranty?
If you’re investing in a BMX bike, it’s essential to ensure that you’re covered in the case of any unfortunate mishaps or defects. With the Kink Curb, you’ll be glad to know that it does come with a warranty. For the details, you can check out Kink’s official warranty page here.
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.
In the world of BMX, where the product’s lifespan can be heavily influenced by factors like the rider’s style and how well the bike is maintained, a warranty offers that extra layer of security. It’s another assurance that you’re getting a product that the manufacturer stands behind.
The Importance of a Trusted Shop
When buying a BMX bike, it’s not just about the product itself, but also where you buy it from. I cannot stress enough the importance of purchasing your bike from a trusted shop. I always buy from Danscomp because of their exceptional customer service and commitment to resolving any issues.
From my experience, Danscomp takes care of their customers, making sure that if there is an issue, it gets handled promptly and professionally. So, you’re not just buying a bike; you’re also investing in a service that guarantees you peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
Kink Curb Conclusion
Kink Curb Conclusion
The Kink Curb is a low-quality BMX bike that won’t necessarily help a BMX rider achieve their dreams. Weighing 27.3 pounds and costing $379, it offers a basic entry point for riders starting their BMX journey. But let’s delve deeper into my final thoughts on the 2024 Kink Curb.
Honest Thoughts on the Kink Curb
After analyzing all aspects of the Kink Curb, it’s clear that this bike falls at the lower end of the quality spectrum. The full high tensile steel frame, single-wall rims, and unsealed bearings mark it as a step up from a Walmart bike, but not by a wide margin. Though the bike’s affordability might be appealing, the quality leaves much to be desired.
The Kink Curb does, however, offer some flexibility for customization and upgrades. This could be beneficial if you’re just starting out and need a basic platform to experiment with different components and settings. However, you’ll have to keep in mind the potential issues the unsealed bearings might cause when you decide to upgrade certain parts.
Bike Recommendation Reminder
Remember, choosing the right BMX bike is crucial to enjoying and progressing in BMX. To make the task easier, I offer a free bike recommendation to narrow down your options. Don’t hesitate to make use of it!
Join the Community
If you have any further questions about the Kink Curb or BMX in general, join our BMX Nerds Discord or head over to the Community Page to ask your question. We’re here to help!
Model Year Updates
Changes to Current Year Kink Curb
Changes to Current Year Kink Curb
One of the most exciting updates comes in the form of color options. The bike now offers a range of four unique color choices: matte midnight black, gold leaf, Alps blue, and Mika green. It’s important to note that all color variations have the same specifications and features.
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 Kink Curb
- Old Color Options
2023 Kink Curb
- New Color Options
In 2023 Kink changed all of the colors for the Kink Curb. This was the only significant change to the 2023 version.
