Diamondback Insight 2
updated 24/09/2019
Diamondback Bicycles has a long proud history of producing reliable well-built bikes of all types.
Two of my earlier mountain bikes were built by Diamondback they proved their worth and took the knocks.
The Diamondback Insight is no exception it is put together using Shimano components on a rugged alloy frame the bike is built light easy to maintain at home but strong to take constant use.
Performance Hybrid
The Diamondback Insight 2 is classed as a Performance Hybrid which means if you are looking for a well built reliable all-rounder for around $500 or less you won’t find a better deal.
Its quality of build is up there with the best, owning one gives you a versatile fun bike for family rides and I would expect problem-free commuting due to the quality Shimano components.
If you don’t expect too much you can venture onto the occasional easy fire trail, but in reality, they are at their best when set-up as a Cycle Tourer, budget Road Racer, entry-level Triathlon Bike or as I see it they are most suited to be used as a fun reliable commuter.
That covers a huge range of uses, but that is the beauty of owning a good hybrid bike they truly are Versatile!
How Not To Use It!
Though often you will see Hybrid bikes touted as road/mountain bike or two bikes in one?
In my opinion, Mountain Biking is one thing they are not suited to, The gearing, the large wheel size, lack of suspension would make this bike a nightmare when riding any type of mountain bike trail I have ever been on, so No, it is not a beginners mountain bike.
Most hybrid bikes, however, you modify them, are only suitable for very easy flat dirt trails, if you are expecting to climb steep, gnarly single tracks, and want to enjoy doing so – you should look at specialist mountain bikes.
Non-Technical Bike Riders
The Diamond Insight 2 like many in the Performance Hybrid class will suit a wide range of non-technical bike riders – road riding, daily commute, the occasional not too challenging off-road ride along a fire trail.
What I would love to use it for is cycle touring.
To me, this is what they are especially suited too.
The larger-diameter 700c wheels, comfortable seat, and riding position ensures it is easy to ride on flat to rolling roads.
This makes it ideal for long rides and a much better choice than the cheap mountain bike I used for cycle touring.
But even if you have no interest in cycling through Asia for 6 months…
I would still recommend it for beginner riders or those of you who haven’t the need for a specialist bike.
Diamondback Insight 2 – Check Today’s Price!
Easy Assembly
Bike arrived on time and in great condition. I don’t know if all of the bikes are shipped this way but the only assembly required mounting the handlebars installing the seat, mounting the front tire, hooking up the brake cables, and some minor adjustments to fit the bike. Road the bike the next day for about 8 miles and really enjoyed the smooth ride and the disk brakes. source: Amazon verified buyers review.
Video – How To Assemble a Dimondback Road Bike
Diamondback Insight 2 – Technical Details
- 6061-T6 Butted Aluminum Performance Hybrid frame with a formed/hooded top tube, an integrated headtube, and vertically compliant stays (VCS).
- Shimano components including cranks, bottom bracket, brake levers, 8spd shifters, cassette, and derailleurs.
- Double-wall rims built to take the knocks from rough roads and potholes as well as the weight of larger riders.
- Oversized 31.8mm handlebar and 3D Forged 7° stem.
- A hybrid saddle with a gel top will provide a comfortable ride when you are on your next cycle tour.
Who Should Buy One
How you could use the Diamondback Insight 2 is only limited by your imagination…
If you are looking for a cheap rugged bike for Daily Commuting, Fitness Training, Weekend Rides with the family.
Or something more demanding, you could just as easily set it up for Epic Adventures – World Travel Perhaps?
Cycle Touring is the perfect use for a Hybrid Bike such as Insight 2 they are comfortable to ride, as well as easy, to maintain.
As well if you are beginning to develop an interest in competitive cycling… but for now don’t want to spend a fortune at least until you know how competitive you are…
The solution is simple before you shell out large amounts of cash to buy that specialist carbon Triathlon Bike you dream of?
Simply fit a set of clamp-on aero bars to your new Insight 2 or similar hybrid bike, This will prove to be a solid, reliable, entry-level Triathlon Bike for the first couple of seasons.
Without breaking the bank!
Summary
Apart from not being a viable mountain bike replacement, Diamondback Insight 2 can do it all…
It is rare to find a strong versatile bike for such a low price.
Especially with components, from a respected brand like Shimano.
Shimano components are stock standard on Diamondback Insight Models – a nice bonus on a budget bike.
Would I Recommend The Insight 2?
I’m a fan of this bike, I guess that’s obvious from the tone of my review so Yes I would recommend the Diamondback Insight to 90% of the bike riders out there, the other 10%, are specialist riders who require specialist bikes.
This is a great first bike from a solid cycling Brand backed by an established well-known company.
It comes well tested in the “field of hard-knocks” by the many thousands of happy customers right here in the USA.
Why would you choose to buy a no-name import and hope it’s ok…? When you could buy a Diamondback Insight for the same money!
The range of Insight bikes from Diamondback is one of the few Hybrids I would recommend at this low price point, a great buy at $425 – $500 (online price) – Just choose your color and enjoy years of problem free riding.
[Insight 2, 2019] Check Today’s Price!
