The Sunday EX is a high-quality BMX bike that will help a BMX rider achieve their dreams. This bike weighs 25.75 pounds, and costs $629. From beginners to experts, whether you’re just riding around town or shredding at the BMX park, the Sunday EX is an investment in your passion for BMX biking.
This BMX machine has consistently received positive reviews for its durability and performance. With 2024‘s model, we have high expectations that Sunday EX will continue its legacy of impressive quality and exceptional riding experience.
Overview
The Sunday EX: Overview
The Sunday EX: Overview
At the heart of the BMX world, you’ll find models like the Sunday EX that aim to deliver on all fronts. With a unique blend of quality, customizability, and style, it’s an excellent choice for seasoned riders or beginners eager to level up.
Weight of the Sunday EX
Weighing in at a comfortable 25.75 pounds, the Sunday EX is light enough to give you the freedom to execute tricks and stunts with relative ease, but heavy enough to feel sturdy and durable.
Price and Value for Money
With a price tag of $629, this bike sits on the pricier end of the spectrum. Yet, the cost is well-justified by the full chromoly frame, forks, handlebars, and double wall rims that ensure longevity and quality.
Customization and Upgradability of the Sunday EX
One of the most significant advantages of the Sunday EX is its complete upgradability and customization potential. Though it shines straight out of the box, it’s a bike that grows with your skills, allowing for part changes as and when you please, mostly for cosmetic alterations.
Accessories/Notable Mentions or Lack Thereof
While this bike doesn’t come with any pegs, it includes one plastic Hub guard on the non-drive side in the back. For those worried about stopping, the bike comes equipped with U-brakes, fully removable for a sleek, brakeless look if preferred.
Color Options
The Sunday EX comes in two distinctive colorways and top tube sizes – the 20.75 inch Julian Ortega cool mint and the 21 inch Erik Elstran gloss gray. This choice gives riders the ability to pick a model that suits their style and height requirements best.
Find the Right Bike
How to Choose the Right BMX Bike for You
How to Choose the Right BMX Bike for You
Choosing the right BMX bike isn’t a mere case of picking the coolest color or the bike with the most robust set of features. It’s a process that requires careful consideration of your unique needs and circumstances. Here’s a couple of factors to bear in mind:
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Importance of Correct Size
The importance of choosing a BMX bike of the correct size cannot be overstated. I learned this the hard way when I got my first bike. It was too small and low quality for my weight, and it ended up breaking within a few months. It’s critical to choose a bike that is well-suited for your height and weight to ensure its longevity and your comfort while riding.
Size & Geometry
Sunday EX Geometry and Sizing
Sunday EX Geometry and Sizing
Before making a purchase, it is crucial to understand the geometry and sizing of your potential BMX bike. Two versions of the Sunday EX are available, each with different top tube sizes. These are the 20.75-inch Julian Ortega cool mint colorway and the 21-inch Erik Elstran gloss gray colorway.
| 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 |
Available Top Tube Sizes and Ideal Rider Heights
Understanding your ideal top tube size is the key to getting the right bike. The top tube size correlates with your height and influences how the bike handles. A wrong-sized top tube can make the bike feel either too cramped or too stretched out. The 20.75-inch top tube is recommended for riders between 5’9″ and 6′, while the 21-inch top tube is better suited to riders over 6′. However, if you’re over 6’3″ or 6’4″, we would recommend a 21.25-inch top tube.
Frame and Parts Geometry
As for the bike’s geometry, it has a 75-degree head tube angle, a 9-inch standover height, a chainstay length of between 13.2 and 13.5 inches, and an 11.5-inch bottom bracket height. These numbers might seem a bit technical, but they significantly influence the bike’s performance. For instance, a longer chainstay length offers more stability and control but makes it harder to pull the bike back into a manual or loop out. The lower-than-average bottom bracket height adds stability by keeping your feet closer to the ground.
The bike’s fork has a 25mm offset for added responsiveness, while the handlebars stand at 9 inches tall and 29 inches wide. The Sunday EX is also equipped with a Sunday Freeze top load stem with a 48mm reach, a stem known for its solid performance and durability.
Quality
Quality and Durability of the Sunday EX
Quality and Durability of the Sunday EX
Quality and durability are two critical factors to consider when purchasing a BMX bike. The Sunday EX stands out in these regards, promising to offer riders a reliable and robust bike for their BMX adventures. The discussion will primarily focus on the frame, forks, handlebars, cranks, and rims, which are the core components of the bike.
The Sunday EX Quality Analysis
| Component | Material | Quality |
|---|---|---|
| Frame | Full Chromoly | High |
| Forks | Full Chromoly | High |
| Handlebars | Full Chromoly | High |
| Cranks | Full Chromoly | High |
| Rims | Odyssey Stage 2 | Medium-High |
One noteworthy aspect is that the frame of the Sunday EX is full chromoly. Additionally, it incorporates wave down tube technology, which adds extra strength to the frame, thus enhancing the bike’s overall durability. The forks, handlebars, and cranks are all full chromoly, contributing to a solid, reliable construction.
The Odyssey Stage 2 rims, while not top-tier, are still robust and reliable. They are double-wall rims, offering superior strength and durability compared to single-wall rims. However, you must ensure you’re getting the Odyssey Stage 2 rims and not the single-wall Sunday lightning rims, which can sometimes be supplied due to availability.
Importance of Chromoly Over High Tensile Steel
Chromoly is generally superior to high tensile steel when it comes to BMX bike frames and other components. It is lighter and more fatigue-resistant, which allows for the creation of thin, lightweight frames that can still withstand the rigorous demands of BMX riding. When you buy a BMX bike like the Sunday EX that is full chromoly, you’re investing in a bike that is more likely to last longer and perform better.
Pros and Cons
Highlights and Lowlights of the Sunday EX
Highlights and Lowlights of the Sunday EX
There’s no denying that the Sunday EX is a BMX bike that makes a strong impression, but it does have both its shining points and areas for improvement. Let’s delve into these aspects.
Noteworthy Features of the Sunday EX
- Full Chromoly Frame: One aspect of the Sunday EX that cannot be overstated is its full chromoly frame, forks, and handlebars, providing it with a robust foundation of strength and durability.
- Double Wall Rims: The bike also comes with Odyssey Stage 2 rims, which are a step up from single wall rims, enhancing the bike’s resilience.
- Upgradable and Customizable: The Sunday EX is fully customizable and upgradable, providing riders with the flexibility to modify the bike according to their personal preferences and performance needs.
- Wave Down Tube: One standout feature is the patented wave down tube design that Sunday employs, which adds extra strength to the frame.
- Responsive Forks: The forks have a 25 millimeter offset, offering responsive handling.
Areas of Disappointment and Potential Upgrades Needed
- No Pegs Included: It’s a little disappointing that the bike doesn’t come with pegs. Riders who require these for their riding style would have to purchase them separately.
- Potential Rim Issue: There’s a small potential issue with the rims. The bike should come with Odyssey Stage 2 double-wall rims, but due to availability, there’s a chance you might get Sunday Lightning single-wall rims, which are of lower quality. It’s crucial to verify this before purchasing.
- Steel Sprocket: The Sunday saber 2 sprocket is made of steel rather than alloy. While this might not be an issue for lighter riders, those over 250 lbs might experience bending.
Quality Score and Weight Limit of the Sunday EX
Considering the full chromoly frame, forks, handlebars, and double-wall rims, the Sunday EX scores highly on quality. While no definitive weight limit is given, it’s suggested that riders up to 200 lbs would find the bike’s quality sufficient. However, for riders over 250 lbs, it might not be as durable.
Advice for Riders over the Weight Limit: If you’re a heavier rider, investing in a high-quality bike is essential. Higher quality bikes come with durable part upgrades and superior materials, thus lasting longer. While this might mean spending more upfront, it saves you the recurrent costs of replacing parts on a lower-quality bike, thereby being more cost-effective in the long run.
Street, Park, or Dirt
Sunday EX Riding Style: Park, Street, or Dirt?
Sunday EX Riding Style: Park, Street, or Dirt?
As an expert BMX bike reviewer, my role is to help you understand the strengths and weaknesses of a given bike in different contexts. The Sunday EX, like many BMX bikes, can be tailored to fit your personal riding style, whether that be park, street, or dirt. However, understanding how it fares in these different environments straight out of the box is crucial.
The Sunday EX, with its full chromoly frame, forks, handlebars, and double wall rims, showcases a quality build that can handle demanding riding in a variety of terrains. But there are certain specifications that will influence how it performs in park, street, or dirt.
The bike’s geometry and quality have significant implications for its performance. Its 75 degree head tube angle and 9-inch standover height are average, implying a balanced feel that works well across riding styles. The slightly longer chainstay length (between 13.2 and 13.5 inches) does make the bike more challenging to pull back for manuals or loop outs, but it provides added stability and control – key for dirt and park riding.
Furthermore, the slightly lower bottom bracket height (11.5 inches) further contributes to stability, as your feet are closer to the ground. This could be an advantage in street and park scenarios where balance and control are paramount. The responsive forks, with a 25 millimeter offset, ensure quick maneuvering, crucial for park and street riding where swift reactions can make the difference.
Regarding customization, remember that the Sunday EX is fully upgradable. If you find yourself veering towards a specific riding style over time, you can invest in specific parts that can further optimize the bike’s performance in that domain.
Best Upgrades
Top Three Upgrades for the Sunday EX
Top Three Upgrades for the Sunday EX
In the world of BMX, there is always room for improvement and customization. Even though the Sunday EX is a fantastic bike out of the box, there are a few areas where an upgrade could significantly enhance its performance and aesthetics. Here are the top three recommended upgrades:
1. Pegs
The Sunday EX doesn’t come with any pegs. This might not be a problem if you don’t plan on doing grinds, but if you do, you’ll need to invest in a set of good quality pegs. Adding pegs not only opens up a new range of tricks but also gives the bike a more aggressive, street-ready look.
2. Hub Guards
The bike comes with only one plastic hub guard on the non-drive side at the back. If you’re serious about protecting your hubs from grinds, it would be a good idea to upgrade to full hub guards. This would provide an additional layer of protection and potentially save you money in the long run by preventing costly hub damage.
3. Alloy Sprocket
The stock sprocket on the Sunday EX is made of steel, which can bend under heavy loads. If you’re over 200 pounds or plan on doing high-impact tricks, it might be wise to upgrade to a high-quality alloy sprocket. This would provide extra durability and peace of mind, especially for heavier riders or those pushing their riding to the limits.
Remember, the goal of these upgrades is to enhance the Sunday EX’s performance and tailor the bike to your specific needs. Always consider your riding style and the types of tricks you want to learn when deciding on upgrades.
Similar Options
Sunday EX Comparisons
Sunday EX Comparisons
Multiple size & Color options
No Pegs
Weaker components
Double wall rims
Good Value
Long Geometry
Double wall rims
Strong Chain
No Pegs
In considering whether the Sunday EX is the perfect match for your BMX needs, it’s important to make comparisons with other bikes in the market. This enables a holistic evaluation of its features, prices, and benefits against its competitors. To make the comparison process easier for you, here are a few BMX bikes to consider alongside the Sunday EX.
The Sunday Forecaster
Given that it’s from the same brand, the Sunday Forecaster presents a useful comparison. The Forecaster is slightly cheaper than the Sunday EX, but does not have a full chromoly frame, and it comes with Odyssey Stage One rims, which are single-walled, as opposed to the double-walled rims of the EX. If your budget is a key concern, the Forecaster might be a worthy consideration. However, keep in mind that the EX’s improved quality might prove to be a better investment in the long run.
The Kink Whip
Another bike worth considering is the Kink Whip. Similar to the Sunday EX, it comes with a full chromoly frame and forks, which ensure high quality and durability. It also features Mission Mylar double-wall rims, which are quite similar to the Odyssey Stage 2 rims of the EX. While it’s not as customizable as the EX, it provides a robust performance and is priced at a more affordable range.
While the Sunday EX may be on the pricier side, remember that its cost reflects its exceptional quality and upgradeability. The decision ultimately comes down to your specific needs, your budget, and your personal preferences. Whether you choose the Sunday EX, the Sunday Forecaster, the Kink Whip, or another model, the crucial aspect is to select a bike that best fits your riding style, height, and skill level.
Final Thoughts
Does the Sunday EX Have a Warranty?
Does the Sunday EX Have a Warranty?
The Sunday EX is covered by Sunday’s “Complete Bike Warranty”. The steel frame is covered for 6 months against manufacture defects and the components are covered for 90 days against “workmanship defects”. Understanding the full warranty is important before purchasing your new BMX bike.
COMPONENT WARRANTY: Most non-proprietary components have a limited warranty offered by the component manufacturer directly. Please contact your authorized dealer for additional information on making a warranty claim on such a part. All other parts except Normal Wear Parts are guaranteed against a defect in materials or workmanship for a period of (90) days from the date of original purchase, subject to the terms and conditions of this limited warranty.
41-Thermal Warranty: Sunday will replace its 41-Thermal processed products at no additional cost if it bends, cracks or breaks under normal riding conditions. Normal riding conditions are defined as “using the bicycle in a controlled fashion that is within your own capabilities.” This warranty does not include damage that is caused by external forces such as cars, tornadoes, sledgehammers, etc.
Learn More About Sunday’s Warranty
Where to Buy Your BMX Bike?
It’s important to buy your next bmx bike from a trusted BMX shop. Buying from a trusted shop or online retailer ensures that you have somewhere to go for help if you occur any issues. I buy all of my stuff from Dan’s Comp because they always take care of their customers. If you run into any issues, their friendly staff will help you out.
Final Thoughts
Conclusion
Conclusion
The Sunday EX has positioned itself as a well-recognized contender in the BMX bike lineup for its impressive quality, featuring full chromoly frame, forks, handlebars, and double-wall rims. But, its reputation doesn’t quite match its hefty price tag of $629. Regardless of whether you opt for the Julian Ortega or Erik Elstran signature model, the core components and performance remain consistent, giving you a bike that’s highly customizable and upgradable to match your unique style.
With its impressive lightweight of 25.75 pounds, the Sunday EX ensures a nimble ride, aiding riders in their maneuvers and tricks. However, it doesn’t come with any pegs, which might be an area of disappointment for some riders, although it does feature a plastic Hub guard on the non-drive side in the back.
Overall, the Sunday EX has been designed with stability and control in mind. It’s evident in its slightly lower bottom bracket height of 11.5 inches and its longer chainstay length, making the bike slightly harder to pull back, but more balanced and less prone to “looping out.”
What truly stands out about the Sunday EX is the quality of its components, especially the 100% chromoly frame with its patented wave down tube for extra strength. This quality can handle riders up to around 200 pounds, potentially stretching to 210-220 pounds. However, if you’re significantly heavier (around 250+ pounds), you might face issues with some parts like chain breaking or the steel sprocket bending.
From the perspective of quality and durability, the Sunday EX surely is a remarkable bike. But does it justify its price tag of $629? Perhaps not. The bike market continually evolves, and with other brands introducing competitive models, the EX might need to reevaluate its value proposition.
On a closing note, remember that choosing a BMX bike should be about what suits you best. To help you in that process, feel free to avail of the free bike recommendation for subscribers. If you have a question about the bike or about BMX, join the conversation on the BMX Nerds Discord or on the Community Page.
Changes to Current Model
Model Year Updates
Model Year Updates
The Sunday EX is a bike that continues to innovate and improve with each model iteration. Reflecting on this year’s model, it’s evident that the team at Sunday is committed to maintaining their reputation for quality, while also striving for constant improvement. One of the standout features of the 2024 Sunday EX is its significant quality improvement.
The 2024 Sunday EX has seen a change in the rim options. Now, it comes with Odyssey stage 2 rims, which are superior to the single-wall rims of the 2022 and 2021 versions. However, there seems to be a minor caveat. Depending on availability, some bikes might ship with Sunday lightning rims, which are single-wall. It’s crucial for potential buyers to confirm the type of rims before purchase to ensure they’re getting the double-wall variant.
In conclusion, the 2024 Sunday EX is not only a continuity of the brand’s commitment to quality, but it’s also a reflection of their dedication to continuous improvement and rider-centric design choices.
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 EX
- 21″ or 20.75″ option
- Single wall rims
- Freecoaster or CS option
- Matte mustard and gloss copper drop color
2023 EX
- 21″ or 20.75″ option
- Double wall rims
- Freecoaster or CS option
- Matte cool mint and Battleship grey color
In 2022 the Sunday Ex had Sunday lighting single wall rims, In 2023 those were upgraded to double wall rims. in 2023 two new color options were introduced as well.
