written by billtcl on 12/09/2007
Good Points
For me the perfect low cost commuting bike. Good disc brakes, lightweight but rigid. Good deal all round.
Bad Points
Cheap and nasty tyres.
General Comments
I needed a low cost commuter that can do the miles (160 a week on London's shoddy roads). I've had the Gryphon 4 months now and it is perfect. Really good brakes, nice gearing, light and quick. At under £400 it is a very well specced machine.
I was somewhat wary about buying from Halfords and true enough the first one I went into was staffed by Fraggle Rock. But the staff at Kingston Upon Thames were interested, knowledgeable and helpful - like a real bike shop. The 6 week service was handled very professionally.
My one gripe is the tyres. They are very slippy when wet and because the brakes are so good it can be a bit scary if you have to brake hard. So I'd recommend putting new tyres on asap. But all in all a superb commuter.