They are not hydraulic and even I could feel that when testing myself. The job is getting done but there is more arm pump and fatigue when wrestling more weight with a lower grade brake system. Mongoose’s website just says “aluminum” for their unbranded brakes.
When break-in didn’t help, I installed Shimano SM-RT56 Disc Brake Rotors (6-Bolt, 160mm) and Shimano BR-M375 Disc Brake Calipers. Was tempted to go hydraulic, but didn’t want to spend the money for possible over-kill. My son was apprehensive to let loose with the rigid platform. He did say that he noticed a difference in the handling with the big tires and it felt kind of like his Kawasaki KLX 110.
I don’t know of many that go smaller from there either. Hopefully some training will allow him to be able to climb on his own for some of the ride. Sticking to flat nordic type trails for fat biking in the snow mongoose fat bike might be our best bet. Really, this frame is most likely a back up bike for a family of enthusiasts that want their child to join the fat biking they do in the winter. While the Mongoose Argus Trail is trail worthy, there are other bikes that do trail riding better. There is a low level shimano hydraulic disc brake kit that is SO NICE compared to the cable disc brakes.
The Switchback Expert currently costs $125 less than the Specialized Rockhopper and is the better choice, in my opinion, based on the geometry and parts specs. Exploring the great outdoors is truly a treat with a Mongoose fat tire bike. This type of bike is designed with the adventurer in mind, providing numerous benefits that make for a superior cycling experience. Seasonality is a common problem for cyclists, with many finding it challenging to ride in snowy or icy conditions. These bikes are designed to conquer any terrain, in any season.
Speed across virtually any terrain with ease on the Mongoose Men’s Malus 26 in Fat Tire Bike. The front and rear disc brakes give you a practical way to stop. Roll over difficult terrain with ease on the Argus Trail 26 fat tire mongoose racing bike bike by Mongoose. This beast of a bike provides improved stability on sand, snow, or even slick roads. And the Argus’ Tectonic T2 aluminum frame with rigid fork makes for a strong, stable ride with added lateral rigidity.
Mongoose offers an array of models that are specifically designed to suit different riders and terrains. Here are some top models in the Mongoose fat tire bike series that you might consider. With that said, the bike handled as a fat bike should.