Vitus Dee
77/100
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Facts
Summary of Reviews
We have read all expert and user reviews on this bike. In summary, this is what cyclists think.
14 reasons to buy
- The Dee was great value, especially on models with hydraulic brakes.
- Shimano hydraulic disc brakes responded with confidence.
- The Dee was rugged enough to hop curbs, hit pot-holes and ride trails.
- VR models used a quiet and simple Shimano Nexus 3-speed internal hub.
- On 7-speed models, the Shimano Tourney drivetrain shifted without issue.
- Mounts are provided for fenders, in addition to rear and front racks.
- Owners described the Dee as surprisingly fast on city streets.
- Vitus’s name-brand handlebar handled deftly, with 660mm of width.
- WTB Nano 2.1” tires were practical for all-weather use on roads and trails.
- Vitus’s own-brand grips, tires and saddle made for a comfortable ride.
- The Dee weighed less than comparable bikes in this price range.
- Assembly usually only required attachment of the handlebar and pedals.
- Extras included basic tools, touch-up paint, protective stickers and a bell.
- The Vitus saddle was described as comfortable, but ugly.
5 reasons not to buy
- Numerous owners saw the Vitus saddle as ugly, but comfortable nevertheless.
- Some owners found the rear axle’s hex bolt fiddly when changing flat tires.
- Sizing was limited to only two sizes: ‘S/M’ and ‘M/L’.
- The chubby Dee weighs almost 30lb, as can be expected for a budget ride.
- A hilly-city resident said gear-range on the 7-speed was not conducive to steep climbs.
Bottom line
The Dee was seen as a great year-round commuter, which is what the manufacturer’s intended. With fat 2.1” tires and utilitarian rack mounts, it was especially resilient in winter. Two models are available. In 2020, one of these (the VR) uses a low-maintenance 3-speed internal hub and comes shod with Shimano hydraulic disc brakes. The other is the 7-speed Tourney, which uses mechanical brakes and has a significantly lower asking price. Components are solidly mid-range and weight is reasonable but definitely not ‘light’. One of the drawbacks is the limited size options, with the Dee only being offered in ‘S/M’ and ‘M/L’. A 5’4” rider reported that the S/M was uncomfortably oversized. It’s basically a really low-priced and tough, errand-running city bike. One reviewer even said the Dee made a great mountain bike, with a smaller chainring.Expert Reviews
0/100 based on 0 expert reviewsVitus Dee 29
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Vitus Dee 29: Bicycle Gear Review
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