Diamondback Sync’R

78/100
BikeRide Score
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Summary of Reviews

We have read all expert and user reviews on the Diamondback Sync'R. In summary, this is what cyclists think.

16 reasons to buy

  • Unsurprisingly, the Carbon Sync’R was appreciably lightweight. The 3.0’s stiff frame aided acceleration and liveliness.
  • The SRAM GX Eagle 1x11 drivetrain on the Carbon performed superbly for experts who said no upgrade was needed. Even the 24” kids’ model featured an NX 1x11. The 4.0 sported an outstanding Deore Rear Mech that presented great value to buyers.
  • Also requiring no upgrade, was the Fox 34 Fork on the Carbon, which featured ample travel for reviewers. On aluminum models, the Rock Shox fork presented good value, featuring a lockout for street riding.
  • Carbon Sync’Rs sport 32mm rims for strength and fat tires. The budget 3.0’s 36-spoke wheels accept abuse.
  • The Carbon Sync’R easily tackled trails usually reserved for full suspension rigs - and for some experts, presented a more enjoyable ride.
  • This bike received plaudits as to its responsiveness and playful qualities.
  • The Carbon Sync’R was dubbed ‘bulletproof’, for its durability.
  • The Carbon Sync’R easily tackled trails usually reserved for full suspension rigs - and for some experts, presented a more enjoyable ride.
  • Carbon Sync’Rs sport 32mm rims for strength and fat tires. The budget 3.0’s 36-spoke wheels accept abuse.
  • On the Carbon, Maxxis Minion tires craved aggressive conditions, while on the 4.0, Rapid Rob tires were fast.
  • The Carbon Sync’R’s geometry was compact, coupled with slack angles and a long wheelbase. Experts saw this as an aid to gaining big air. Most models struck owners as capable climbers.
  • Carbon Sync’Rs received plaudits as the bike's responsiveness and playful qualities.
  • The 3.0 comes equipped with rack and mudguard eyelets for everyday use.
  • At the low price-points of the 3.0 and 24 inch models, it impressed owners to see hydraulic brakes.
  • Buyers of all models said they were easy to assemble, with the 24” sometimes needing no rear derailleur or brake adjustment.
  • All models presented great value, to owners and experts alike.

10 reasons not to buy

  • The fork on the 24” was a bit heavy for some lighter kids to compress.
  • Both 24” and aluminum models presented a number of minor assembly issues for some buyers, including missing bolts and small damage. The 24” was occasionally troubled by incorrect cable lengths, greaselessness and undertightened brakes. Aluminum models faired worse, having arrived with bent hangers and wheels out of true.
  • Carbon Sync’Rs don’t have enough clearance for real plus-tires, only allowing 27.5×2.8” or 29×2.3”. Sync 3.0 and 4.0 models were criticized for featuring narrow tires, at 2.1”and 2.25”, respectively.
  • The lack of a boost front hub limits upgrade options for the Carbon model.
  • The Truvativ Powerspline bottom-bracket on Carbon models struck experts as redundant.
  • Experts agreed that Sync 4.0 models were heavy.
  • 3.0 models featured short reach combined with a long stem, which reduced handling ability on rough terrain.
  • The 3.0’s fork is coil-only without rebound adjustment. Disc rotor size is limited to 160mm. It was found to lock-out on uneven terrain.
  • Frames felt uncomfortably firm on the 3.0.
  • The 3.0’s 8-speed transmission and Tourney-only crankset were considered outdated.

Bottom line

Really, when you look at the different Sync’R models, you’re seeing a few horses of significantly different colors. The 3.0 and 4.0 are budget models that both feature compromises on performance and componentry in order to maintain affordability. The 24” is usually received as a kids’ bike with high-quality adult componentry. Aluminum Sync’Rs impressed most owners with reliable mid-range parts and spec. But at the top of the heap – you have the 2019 Carbon Sync’R that can tackle intense trails without hesitation. This bike features componentry that, in most regards, begs no upgrades and almost always impressed.
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Facts

Gender
Release Year
Brand
Wheel Size
Number of Gears
Gearing Type
Weight
28.5, 33.0, 29.8, 29 lb
Suspension
Brake Type
Frame Material

Expert Reviews

60/100 based on 2 rated expert reviews
70
Mountain Bike Rider

Diamondback Sync 4.0 (2017) Review

So even though the Diamondback has a superior drivetrain that includes a low-profile Shimano Deore Shadow rear mech, it needs better tires to unlock its full potential.

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50

Diamondback Sync’R 3.0 Review

I’d recommend saving up for a bit longer to stretch your budget further up the Diamondback range if you want a proper mountain-ready bike.

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Diamondback Sync’R Pro Review

I’ve got some weird comments from other riders… obviously they’re alluding to the fact that Diamondback also sells budget bikes available at many retail stores. As soon as we get out on the trails, though, they can clearly see that this bike is nothing to joke about.

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Biking With Bobo

New Bike Day? (Diamondback Sync’R Carbon)

Jordan Boostmaster

First Impressions of the Diamondback Carbon Sync’r Hardtail

Bike Magazine

First Ride – Diamondback Sync’r Carbon

If you don’t want to jump to a full suspension this is a great everyday, everyman’s kind of a bike. And it definitely shreds.

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Daily MTB Rider

The Best Budget Aggressive Hardtail for 2018

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Daily MTB Rider

Long Term Budget Hardtail Review – 2018 Diamondback Sync’r

MTB Old Duck

2019 Diamondback Sync’r Review

The Singletrack Sampler

Can I Keep Up With Seth’s Bike Hacks While on Hard Tails?

The Dead Sailor

2017 Diamondback Sync’r Pro Review

User Ratings

88/100 based on 56 ratings
  • 5 star
    80%
  • 4 star
    7%
  • 3 star
    5%
  • 2 star
    2%
  • 1 star
    5%

Bike Comparison

Diamondback Sync’R in comparison to averages

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