
Royce Union RHT Lightweight Aluminum Mountain Bike, 15″ Frame, Wine
- Conquer any terrain with confidence and style on the Royce Union RHT Lightweight Aluminum Mountain Bike, featuring a striking 15-inch wine-colored frame and top-of-the-line components.
Your Go-To Resource for Learning All About this Trail-Ready Bike
The Royce Union RHT Mountain Bike is a great option for beginners looking to hit the trails and take their cycling adventures off-road. With its durable aluminum frame, front suspension fork, and quality components, this affordable mountain bike can handle a variety of trails and terrain.
Before purchasing the Royce Union RHT Mountain Bike, it’s important to understand all of its features, proper assembly and maintenance, where to buy, available sizes and colors, and how it compares to other mountain bikes. This buying guide will provide a comprehensive overview of everything you need to know about the Royce Union RHT Mountain Bike before buying.
Key Features of the Royce Union RHT Mountain Bike
The Royce Union RHT Mountain Bike is a hardtail bike, meaning it has suspension in the front but not the rear. Key features include:
- Aluminum frame: The lightweight aluminum frame makes the bike easy to maneuver and control on trails. Aluminum offers a good balance of strength, affordability and shock absorption.
- 21-speed drivetrain: With a Shimano rear derailleur and EZ Fire Plus shifters, the RHT has 21 speeds to handle varying terrain. The wide range of gears allows you to optimize pedaling efficiency.
- Front suspension fork: The 80mm travel suspension fork smoothes out bumps and increases control when riding over roots, rocks and other obstacles. It improves grip and handling.
- Mechanical disc brakes: These provide great stopping power in all weather conditions. They offer enhanced braking control compared to rim brakes.
- 27.5” wheels: The medium-sized wheels roll over obstacles better than standard 26” wheels. Combined with the suspension fork, they help smooth out the ride.
- Alloy double wall rims: More durable than single wall rims, double wall alloy rims hold up better to the rigors of off-road riding.
- Kenda tires: The knobby Kenda tires have an aggressive tread pattern to grip loose trails. They provide good traction and handling.
- Alloy kickstand: The kickstand keeps the bike upright for easy mounting, dismounting and storage when not riding.
Assembly Tips for the Royce Union RHT Mountain Bike
The Royce Union RHT Mountain Bike comes partially assembled direct from the factory. Some basic assembly is required before it’s ready to hit the trails. Here are some tips for properly assembling this mountain bike:
- Use a bicycle work stand to hold the bike steady while assembling. This makes the job easier.
- Attach the front wheel first, ensuring the disc brake rotor slides cleanly into the brake caliper. Secure with bolts.
- Install the handlebars next using the stem and included hardware. Make sure cables and hoses route properly.
- Add the seat post and saddle. Adjust to the proper height for the rider.
- Pedals simply thread on by hand. Make sure not to cross-thread them.
- Inflate the tires to the recommended pressure range printed on the sidewalls.
- Double check that all nuts and bolts are tightened properly throughout the bike.
- Test the brakes and shifters before the initial ride. Make adjustments as needed.
- Consult the printed owner’s manual for specific assembly instructions. Taking your time ensures proper assembly.
Where to Buy the Royce Union RHT Mountain Bike Online
The Royce Union RHT Mountain Bike is sold through various online retailers. Here are some of the best places to buy it online:
- Amazon: Amazon carries the RHT and offers free shipping on some models. They have one of the widest selections.
- Royce Union: Purchase the RHT direct from Royce Union’s website. This ensures you’re getting an authentic model.
- Walmart: The RHT is available on Walmart.com, often at prices competitive with Amazon. Free shipping on orders over $35.
- Target: Target.com sells select models of the RHT. Expect low prices with fast delivery options.
- Dick’s Sporting Goods: Various RHT models are stocked at Dick’s website. They offer free curbside pickup at many locations.
- Performance Bicycle: Known for carrying quality bikes, Performance Bicycle’s site has the RHT available to order online.
- JensonUSA: This dedicated bike shop offers customized RHT builds. Expert wheel and component upgrades are available.
- Specialized local bike shops: Check local shops that carry major brands. Many will order the RHT for you if not in stock.
Price Range of the Royce Union RHT Mountain Bike
As an entry-level hardtail mountain bike, the Royce Union RHT is very reasonably priced. Expect to spend:
- $200 to $300 for baseline RHT models from big retailers like Amazon and Walmart
- $400 to $600 for upgraded RHT models with better drivetrains, brakes, wheels and suspensions
- $800 to $1,000 for customized RHT bikes from specialty shops with high-end components
- $1,200+ for RHT bikes with professional-level parts like carbon fiber frames and forks
With its quality aluminum frame and value components, the RHT delivers good performance that most beginner and recreational riders will appreciate, without the high cost of premium mountain bikes.
Reviews of the Royce Union RHT Mountain Bike
The Royce Union RHT earns above average reviews from most owners. Here are some of the most common feedback points:
- Delivers very good capabilities for the price
- Easy to assemble out of the box
- Smooth suspension soaks up bumps and trail obstacles
- Gears and brakes work well for casual off-roading
- Quality frame provides good durability and handling
- Impressive components like wheels and tires for a beginner bike
- Capable on basic single-track trails and terrain
- Very affordable introductory mountain bike option
While the RHT may not have the performance needed for extreme mountain biking, reviewers say it’s an excellent starter bike for new riders. Most are very satisfied with its quality and capabilities.
Available Sizes of the Royce Union RHT Mountain Bike
The Royce Union RHT Mountain Bike comes in four standard frame sizes to fit a range of riders:
- 13” frame: Fits riders 4’8” to 5’2” in height
- 15” frame: Fits riders 5’3” to 5’7” in height
- 17” frame: Fits riders 5’8” to 6′ in height
- 19” frame: Fits riders 6′ to 6’3″ in height
It’s important to get the properly sized RHT frame for the rider’s height and proportions. This ensures good handling, comfort and efficiency out on the trails. Refer to Royce Union’s sizing chart for recommendations based on rider height and dimensions.
Ideal for Beginners Just Starting Out in Mountain Biking
With its quality frame, entry-level components, and reasonable price, the Royce Union RHT is one of the best options on the market for beginner mountain bike riders. Several factors make it a great choice for those new to off-road cycling:
- Approachable price: Very affordable compared to premium mountain bikes, so beginners can get started without a huge investment.
- Durable frame: The aluminum frame provides a solid foundation that will withstand trail abuse while learning.
- Smooth suspension fork: Makes handling choppy terrain far easier for those with limited experience. Boosts control.
- Quality components: Mechanical disc brakes and 21-speed drivetrain offer good performance for recreational use.
- 27.5” wheels: The mid-size wheels roll over objects more easily, benefitting new riders.
- Hardtail style: Having only front suspension simplifies the bike for beginners. Easier to operate and maintain.
- Upgradable platform: As skills improve, components like the fork, wheels and drivetrain can be upgraded over time.
While not suited for aggressive mountain biking, the RHT helps beginners progress on trails within their abilities. It’s a trail bike built to last through the learning process.
Durable Aluminum Frame Materials on the RHT
The Royce Union RHT Mountain Bike is built around a strong, lightweight aluminum frame. Some key advantages of aluminum:
- Affordable: Aluminum alloy is more budget-friendly than carbon fiber or titanium frames. This keeps the RHT price down.
- Durable: The aluminum frame withstands trail abuse, rocks, crashes and all the rigors beginners will put it through. It holds up well.
- Comfortable: Aluminum provides a responsive, comfortable ride quality. It flexes to soak up bumps.
- Lightweight: The aluminum frame keeps overall bike weight low, making it easier to ride and control.
- Corrosion-resistant: Aluminum repels water and does not rust, maintaining the integrity of the frame.
- Easy to maintain: Simple care and maintenance keeps an aluminum frame in top shape for years of use.
While not as advanced as carbon fiber, the aluminum frame gives beginners a durable, reliable foundation without compromising performance.
How the RHT Performs on Various Mountain Biking Trails
The Royce Union RHT Mountain Bike is designed to perform well on most beginner to intermediate singletrack and trail systems. Here is how it typically handles various mountain biking terrain:
- Smooth dirt trails: The RHT rolls fast and smooth on groomed dirt trails thanks to the lightweight aluminum frame and quality 27.5” wheels. The frame absorbs vibrations well.
- Gradual hills: The 21-speed drivetrain provides a wide gear range for climbing moderate hills efficiently. The front suspension improves traction up inclines.
- Downhill runs: Mechanical disc brakes give reliable speed control when descending while the suspension fork improves steering and handling.
- Packed gravel paths: The medium-width knobby tires maintain good stability and traction on gravel terrain without slowing momentum.
- Obstacles & roots: The RHT easily rolls over small rocks, roots and other obstacles thanks to the 80mm suspension fork and 27.5” wheels.
- Tight, twisty trails: Responsive aluminum frame and wheelset allows the bike to carve tight turns accurately on singletrack trails.
While best suited for cross country riding, the RHT can handle endurance distances and light trail riding within the limits of its components and frame design.
What Makes the Royce Union RHT Unique
There are several characteristics that set the Royce Union RHT Mountain Bike apart from other beginner-level mountain bikes:
- Reputable brand: Royce Union has over 100 years of cycling experience so riders know it’s a quality-built bike.
- Smart component mixes: Parts like the Shimano drivetrain and Tektro brakes give better performance than expected for the price.
- Modern alloy frame: The aluminum frame uses updated hydroforming techniques to make it lightweight yet strong.
- Trail-capable geometry: Features like the head tube angle are designed for stability and handling on paths and singletrack.
- 80mm travel fork: More travel than expected soaks up bumps better for a smooth off-road ride.
- 27.5″ wheels: The medium diameter wheels offer great traction, momentum and obstacle clearing versus standard 26” wheels.
- Wide gearing range: The 21-speed drivetrain has easier gears for climbing coupled with fast gears for flats and descents.
Overall, it combines a quality frame and thoughtful components that come together to deliver great trail performance at an entry-level price point.
Warranty Protection for the Royce Union RHT
The Royce Union RHT Mountain Bike frame and components are backed by a limited lifetime warranty. This protects against defects in workmanship and materials. The coverage includes:
- Frame: Lifetime warranty covers the aluminum frame.
- Fork: Lifetime warranty on the suspension fork.
- Components: 1 year warranty covers most component parts including wheels, drivetrain, etc.
- Limitations: The warranty does not cover normal wear and tear or improper use/neglect.
- Claims: Need to work through an authorized Royce Union dealer for any warranty claims.
- Proof of purchase: A receipt is required to show original ownership and date of purchase.
- Transferability: The original owner can transfer the lifetime frame/fork warranty to a new owner.
Having a warranty provides peace of mind that the Royce Union RHT frame and components are protected against any manufacturing defects for at least the first year of ownership, if not longer.
The Durability Offered by the Royce Union RHT
From its trail-capable aluminum frame to components selected to withstand singletrack riding, the Royce Union RHT Mountain Bike delivers very good durability for a beginner-level mountain bike at this price point.
- All-terrain frame: The hydroformed aluminum frame holds up well to rough trails, gravel, rocks, and inclement weather.
- Reinforced wheels: The alloy double wall rims add strength and resist bending better than standard wheels.
- Shimano derailleur: Shimano is known industry-wide for durability. Their parts are built to last.
- Sealed bearing hubs: The hubs have sealed cartridge bearings for weather protection and longer life.
- Tough tires: The Kenda tires handle sharp objects and rugged terrain without excessive wear and tear.
- Impact-resistant fork: The steel fork stanchions resist damage from rocks and other trail obstacles.
- Minimal maintenance: Simple, periodic maintenance keeps the whole bike running smoothly for years.
While hardcore mountain biking will shorten its lifespan, the RHT takes the abuse of regular trail and off-road riding in stride. It’s built to handle beginner adventures.
The Mechanical Disc Brakes Equipped on the RHT
The Royce Union RHT Mountain Bike comes equipped with Tektro Novela mechanical disc brakes. These provide strong stopping power in all conditions. Here’s an overview:
- Power: Mechanical cable actuation delivers plenty of stopping force for trail use. Good initial bite.
- Control: Individual finger levers offer enhanced braking finesse and control versus simpler brake levers.
- Modulation: Easy to finely modulate braking pressure as needed on tricky terrain. Good feel overall.
- Consistency: Discs provide reliable stopping power unaffected by water, mud or wheel rims like traditional rim brakes.
- Heat dissipation: Discs resist fade and overheating on extended downhills. Reliable performance lap after lap.
- Reduced maintenance: Mechanical discs are mostly self-adjusting and maintain braking with less tweaking than V-Brakes.
- All-weather use: Alloy rotors provide strong braking grip in both dry and wet conditions.
Overall, the Tektro Novela mechanical discs offer impressive power, modulation, and control for recreational trail riding at this price point.
The Different Models of the Royce Union RHT Mountain Bike
Royce Union offers the RHT Mountain Bike in a range of builds to fit different price points and needs. Models include:
- RHT 20: Base model with 20-speed drivetrain, rim brakes, 26” wheels
- RHT 21: Most popular option with 21 speeds, disc brakes, 27.5” wheels
- RHT 24: Upgraded 24-speed drivetrain with better Shimano components
- RHT Comp: Highest-end build with 120mm fork, hydraulic brakes, high-end wheelset
- RHT Fat Tire: Features oversized 4” tires for sand and snow conditions
- RHT Single Speed: Simple single-speed drivetrain for minimal maintenance
- RHT Step-Thru: Has a low standover diamond frame for easy mounting
- RHT Youth: Scaled-down frames and parts designed for younger riders
There is an RHT model available for just about any need or budget from casual off-road riding to competitive trail riding for youth and adults.
Maintaining Your Royce Union RHT Mountain Bike
Like any mountain bike used off-road, the Royce Union RHT requires periodic maintenance for optimal performance and longevity. Here are some tips:
- Clean regularly: Rinse off dirt, debris and grime after muddy rides to prevent buildup and frame corrosion.
- Lubricate the chain: Keep the chain oiled for smooth shifting. The drivetrain should be lubricated every 40-50 miles.
- Check tire pressure: Inflate tires to the recommended PSI before every ride for handling and preventing flats.
- Inspect bolts: Ensure all mounting bolts on the frame, wheels, brakes, etc. are tightened properly. Tighten any loose bolts.
- Tune shifting: Adjust the derailleur limit screws and barrel adjuster to fine-tune shifting. Replace cables and housing periodically.
- Brake maintenance: Keep brake pads clean of debris and replace once worn down. Check brake fluid (if hydraulic).
- Suspension service: Change oil bath in the fork as needed to maintain smooth suspension action.
Simple at-home maintenance coupled with annual tune-ups by a bike shop will keep the RHT running smoothly for years. Consult the owner’s manual for full service recommendations.
The RHT: A Great Bike for Off-Road Recreation
With its quality frame and parts picked to handle singletrack and unpaved terrain, the Royce Union RHT Mountain Bike is perfectly suited for recreational off-road cycling and trail exploration.
- Stable handling: Inspirers rider confidence and control when maneuvering on loose surfaces.
- Trail comfort: Front suspension smooths out roots, rocks, ruts and other obstacles to reduce fatigue.
- All-terrain tires: Large, grippy tires provide excellent traction up, down and across varied topography.
- Powerful braking: Mechanical discs deliver strong, consistent braking even in wet or muddy conditions.
- Gearing range: Lower gears empower climbing steep trails while higher gears enable ripping down hills.
- Durable construction: The aluminum frame and components hold up to uncultivated wilderness.
- Approachable price: Provides true off-road capability without the high price tag of competitive mountain bikes.
From dirt paths to wooded singletrack, the RHT Mountain Bike is ready for backcountry adventures, weekend rides, and daily exercise on unpaved terrain.
Accessories to Enhance Your Rides with the RHT
Adding select accessories can enhance the performance, convenience and comfort of the Royce Union RHT Mountain Bike. Recommended extras include:
- Helmet – Protects the head during crashes and falls on rugged trails. Look for proper ventilation and fit.
- Tire pump – Essential for keeping tires inflated before every ride. Mini pumps easily pack in a hydration pack.
- Phone mount – Attaches your phone to the handlebars for easy access to GPS apps and music when riding.
- Water bottle cages – Let you carry large water bottles for hydration on long off-road rides. Mount to the frame.
- Bike lights – Allow riding safely after dark. LED headlights and taillights greatly improve visibility.
- Cycling shorts – The extra padding makes riding rough terrain much more comfortable over the course of miles.
- Padded gloves – Reduce hand numbness and fatigue while also protecting from abrasions in the event of a crash.
- Bike computer – Tracks metrics like speed, distance, cadence, altitude gain and more for motivating training rides.
How the RHT Compares to Other Entry-Level Mountain Bikes
The Royce Union RHT Mountain Bike stands out from competitors thanks to its trusted brand name, versatile blend of trail capabilities and reasonable price point. It compares well to other beginner-level mountain bikes:
- Frame Quality – The hydroformed aluminum frame is lighter and smoother than many cheap bikes using basic hi-tensile steel.
- Component Mix – Brands like Shimano and Tektro ensure better reliability than no-name parts spec’d to cut costs.
- Wheel Size – 27.5” wheels strike an optimal balance of traction and maneuverability versus 26” or 29” wheels.
- Suspension Fork – 80mm of travel soaks up bumps better than rigid forks found on ultra-cheap options.
- ** Drivetrain Range** – 21 speeds allow easing uphill climbing not offered by single-speed bikes. Wider overall gearing range.
- Trail Capability – Confidently tackle singletrack and moderate trails while cheap road bikes struggle off-pavement.
Considering its combination of trail-worthy off-road specs and reasonable price, the RHT outshines direct competitors as a first mountain bike.
The Approximate Weight of the Royce Union RHT
As a sleek aluminum hardtail mountain bike with 27.5” wheels, the Royce Union RHT offers a respectable weight for this price range. Here are the approximate weights by frame size:
- 13” Frame – 27 lbs
- 15” Frame – 28 lbs
- 17” Frame – 30 lbs
- 19” Frame – 32 lbs
The hydroformed aluminum frame paired with alloy component parts prevents excess weight. Still, the RHT is not ultra-light like high-end cross country race bikes. Overall, it provides a good strength-to-weight ratio for casually exploring trails.
Color Options Available on the RHT Mountain Bike
The Royce Union RHT Mountain Bike is available in a range of color options across the various models:
- Black – Sleek, neutral colorway fits any style.
- Grey – Understated and sharp-looking metallic grey color.
- White – Bold and visible white with black and red accents.
- Green – Vibrant green paired with black complements the outdoor vibe.
- Blue – Electric blue pops against the black and silver frame.
- Orange – Fiery orange colorway makes a statement on the trails.
- Red – Classic red with black contrasts looks fast and aggressive.
- Yellow – Cheery yellow paired with black for instant trail bike appeal.
With everything from conservative to eye-catching colors, buyers can select the perfect RHT paint scheme to match their tastes and personality.
Conclusion: A Top Value for Beginner Mountain Bikers
Delivering trail-worthy capability and quality construction that belies its reasonable price tag, the Royce Union RHT Mountain Bike represents one of the best values on the market for beginners. Its smart blend of an aluminum frame, 27.5” wheels, 80mm suspension fork, 21-speed drivetrain and mechanical disc brakes provides everything needed to start properly riding cross country trails and basic singletrack. While not meant for aggressive downhill riding, the well-rounded RHT helps new mountain bikers gain skills and explore backcountry terrain on a trusted brand built to last. For those wanting to dip their toes into off-road cycling without a huge investment, the Royce Union RHT Mountain Bike is quite simply a top-rated option worth a close look.