Why the POLYGON Siskiu D5 27.5 Full Suspension Mountain Bike is Perfect for XC and Trail Riders

If you're on the hunt for an affordable yet feature-rich full-suspension mountain bike that opens the door to both cross-country (XC) and trail riding, the POLYGON Siskiu D5 27.5 Full Suspension Mountain Bike could be your perfect match. This bike has garnered a lot of attention for being Polygon's entry-level model into their full-suspension Siskiu range, and it's easy to see why it stands out among mountain bikes in this price bracket. Whether you’re a casual weekend rider or an enthusiast looking to explore more challenging trails, the Siskiu D5 has been built to give you an excellent foundation.

Read on to see why this bike deserves a spot on your shortlist, especially if you're after a reliable, durable, and budget-friendly full-suspension option.

First Impressions: Design and Build Quality

The Polygon Siskiu D5 has been crafted with attention to modern trail demands, boasting a sleek yet robust aluminium frame that doesn’t compromise on aesthetics or strength. Its ALX XC 120mm Travel frame is designed to provide durability on rough trails while keeping the overall weight manageable, a big win for riders keen on climbing and navigating varied terrain.

The geometry is strikingly modern, with a slacker head tube angle that enhances stability on downhills, a longer reach for improved handling, a lower bottom bracket (BB) for greater control, and shorter chain stays for a more responsive ride. Polygon has certainly packed in some thoughtful design elements here, especially for a bike at this price point. If you've been considering Polygon bike deals, this model definitely adds value for money.

Suspension: Ready for Action

The bike features 120mm of suspension travel, which gives it a smooth ride over bumps and rocky sections. The SR Suntour XCM HLO front fork paired with an SR Suntour Raidon LO Air rear shock is a solid setup that allows for efficient energy absorption while keeping your ride stable. The one-piece linkage system Polygon has employed helps reduce flex in the rear triangle, which adds to a smoother and more reliable ride, especially when you're taking on rougher trails.

This setup is ideal for XC trails and light trail riding, striking a balance between performance and affordability. The suspension may not handle the most aggressive downhill tracks, but for anyone looking to enjoy trail biking and XC riding without breaking the bank, the Siskiu D5 provides plenty of capability.

Shimano Components: Reliable Performance

In terms of drivetrain and braking components, Polygon has made excellent choices to keep the Siskiu D5 both affordable and dependable. The bike comes equipped with a Shimano Altus 2x9-speed drivetrain, which offers a good range of gears for various terrains. Whether you’re grinding up steep hills or flying along flats, the Shimano Altus setup provides smooth and responsive shifting.

Then there’s the braking—critical for any mountain biker. The Shimano hydraulic disc brakes on the front and rear wheels ensure strong, dependable stopping power in all weather conditions. This is an impressive feature, especially at this price range, as many entry-level bikes tend to compromise with lower-end brakes. With the Siskiu D5, you’ll feel confident taking on descents and managing your speed on technical sections.

Wheels and Tyres: Traction and Control

The 27.5” wheels on the Siskiu D5 are a popular choice among trail riders, balancing agility and stability. They give the bike the nimbleness needed for twisting trails while still being large enough to roll over obstacles smoothly. The Spiderbait 27.5 x 2.25 tyres provide a reliable grip on both dry and slightly muddy terrains, making them suitable for most UK trails.

While some riders might prefer wider tyres for extra cushioning and traction, the Spiderbait tyres on the D5 are a solid all-around option, designed to handle varied surfaces without feeling sluggish.

Who is the Polygon Siskiu D5 27.5 Full Suspension Mountain Bike For?

The Polygon Siskiu D5 is an excellent choice for beginner to intermediate riders who want an affordable yet capable full-suspension bike. This bike is designed to help newcomers get comfortable with full-suspension riding, while still offering enough features for those who want to push their limits on more challenging XC trails. It’s not built for intense downhill racing or enduro trails, but for the average trail or XC rider looking to experience both climbs and descents comfortably, it’s ideal.

Moreover, if you're a cycling enthusiast on the lookout for mountain bike deals and discounts, the Siskiu D5 offers great value for money and is readily available through online retailers like Go Outdoors.

Why Buy the Polygon Siskiu D5?

Beyond the bike’s impressive specs, Velostrive provides the added benefit of allowing you to compare prices across various online retailers, so you know you're getting the best price. For a current price of around £849, the Polygon Siskiu D5 offers features typically found in higher-priced models, making it a fantastic choice for those on a budget.

Here’s a quick recap of what makes the Polygon Siskiu D5 27.5 Full Suspension Mountain Bike worth considering:

• Affordable Full-Suspension: One of the most budget-friendly full-suspension bikes in its class.
• Modern Geometry: Improved handling, stability, and control with features like a slacker head tube angle, longer reach, and lower BB.
• Reliable Suspension: 120mm travel with SR Suntour components for a smooth ride on XC and light trail adventures.
• Dependable Shimano Parts: 2x9-speed drivetrain and hydraulic disc brakes for precise control and powerful stopping power.
• Great All-Round Tyres and Wheels: The 27.5” wheels and 2.25” tyres strike a perfect balance for mixed terrain.

Final Verdict

The Polygon Siskiu D5 27.5 Full Suspension Mountain Bike proves that you don’t need to break the bank to own a capable and enjoyable full-suspension bike. With quality components, thoughtful design, and reliable performance on XC trails, it’s a perfect entry-level choice for riders eager to get into trail riding.

If you're interested in snagging a deal, check out Velostrive’s Mountain Bike Deals page for the latest Polygon bike deals. For those looking to level up from the D5, have a look at Velostrive’s reviews of other models in the Siskiu range, such as the Polygon Siskiu T8 and T7.

Explore the trails, tackle new terrains, and get great value with the Polygon Siskiu D5!