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View More: ![]() The KMX Viper07/06/2015 The KMX Viper is a machine that was built with daily commuters and everyday riders in mind. Designed for those looking for a durable, affordable and sporty entry-level trike, the Viper offers speed, comfort and adjustability at a price you can afford. The KMX Viper features the classic, highly adjustable KMX bucket seat, a large 24-inch rear wheel, and 24 speeds for reaching higher velocities. FrameAdjustability ![]() You can go crazy on your own modifications. Some of the key features are the adjustable seat that can slide easily along the frame, an adjustable, aluminum boom to fit your reach, and a derailleur post to mount accessories to. ![]() Riding EasyComfort ![]() Adjustability Steering and HandlingLike all other KMX models, the Viper handles incredibly well, with a slightly heavy ride. The direct, Ackerman-compensated steering gives it marvelously responsive handling, and it’s tendency to be self-centering makes it even more stable at higher speeds. The steering is reliable and predictable. The Viper features vertical handlebars with sealed bearings for smooth control, and they can be adjusted to fit you. Tilt them in and outward or slide them forward or back until you’re comfortable. ![]() GearingThe Viper features the KMX road triple crank set with a 170mm crank up front and Microshift twist grip shifters, and a Shimano Deore 8-speed derailleur in back. Like the KMX Cobra, the Viper gives you a wide range of 24 speeds, including some lower gearing to get up steeper grades. f you feel as though you need even more speed than what the Viper already offers, you’ll be happy to know that all the gearing can be easily upgraded until your need for speed is satisfied. Stopping PowerThe Viper features Bengal disc brakes with 160mm rotors on the front wheels. There is no rear brake, but one can easily be added. Each handlebar has a locking brake lever, that works as a parking brake, and it will make sure your trike doesn’t move around as you mount and dismount. The brake pads are easy to adjust at the caliper and by adjusting the cable going into the lever. ![]() ChainlineThe Viper’s chainline has one power idler and two chain tubes. The lower tube guides the chain while the upper protects the frame from damage. Because the Viper is geared to be a road trike, the tubes serve to keep mud, dirt, grime, and other debris off of your chain. You might notice some noise as you ride, but a quick performance upgrade will help to minimize that. You can flare out the ends of the tubes using a lighter or torch. The idlers and tubes are made of sturdy Delrin plastic that’s sure to last you a long time. While you’re out on the road, you’ll find the chainline of the Viper allows for smooth and comfortable pedaling. Wheels and TiresThe KMX Viper features larger wheels than some other models. It has a 24-inch rear wheel, and two 20-inch front wheels with Jetset alloy rims. The hubs and rims are black, with silver nipples and 32 stainless steel spokes, and Schrader valves. The Kenda Kwest tires on the Viper make it a suitable road trike. Commuters will love the smooth roll of the 24-inch by 1.75-inch rear tire, coupled with the 20-inch by 1.75-inch front tires. They may not be the fastest rolling tires, but if you run them at a high psi and you’ll be happy with how fast they will let you go and how comfortable and smooth your ride will be. For most roads and trails, the Kenda Kwest tires will be sufficiently durable, however if you live in an area that is known for puncturing tires you might want to consider a protection upgrade. Extras and UpgradesLike all other KMX trikes, the Viper comes with a KMX flag so other motorists can see you on the road, and with a rear fender to keep you clean and dry. All KMX trikes are great platforms to create and customize a one-of-a-kind trike, but that doesn’t mean you have to start making adjustments immediately. ![]() The stock KMX Viper “as is” serves as a great road machine. If you decide you want to upgrade, we would suggest adding a mirror and a head or tail light. If you’d like to do a little touring, you could throw on a UT custom rack, some front fenders, and maybe upgrade to a more tour-friendly tire. To make the Viper a quality performance trike, you can upgrade the gearing and add a 26-inch rear wheel for even faster speeds. Why is the Viper the trike for you?If you’re looking for an entry-level trike that will serve you well on your daily commute or everyday riding, the Viper will be a surprisingly affordable favorite. It’s a performance-oriented trike, and its bigger tires make it quicker than other trikes. The 24-speed drivetrain is great for everyday riding and is geared low enough to make climbing steep hills a breeze. |
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