The New SRAM AXS Pod Controller Rocks [Gear Watch]

The latest mountain bike gear news from Moots, Easton, SRAM, and Dynaplug.

Gear Watch Wednesday is a weekly update on the latest mountain bike gear releases and products that Singletracks has received for test. Have gear news to share, or products you’d like us to check out? Email [email protected].

New SRAM AXS Pod Rocker

SRAM just announced a new option for Eagle AXS Transmission drivetrains: the SRAM AXS Pod Rocker. The AXS Rocker Paddle, introduced in 2020, quickly became a popular choice among mountain bikers thanks to its more traditional, mechanical shifter feel that can be actuated from the front or the back of the shifter. The new SRAM AXS Pod Rocker brings a similar feel and operation to Transmission drivetrains, and buyers can either purchase a complete Pod Rocker module, or an upgrade kit for existing Pod controllers.

  • Price: $150 for a complete Pod Rocker; $22 paddle upgrade kit
  • Buy from SRAM retailers
Provided photo.

Easton EC90 ALX Wheelset

The Easton EC90 ALX gravel wheels are designed to be aerodynamic without being overly stiff due to the increased rim height. The aluminum alloy rims are 24mm wide internally and 36mm deep. The wheelset weighs 1495g, comes with a lifetime warranty, and features 24 spokes front and rear. Designed for tires 35-45mm wide.

  • Price: $1,398
  • Buy from Easton retailers
Photo: moots.com

Moots MXC hardtail

The new titanium Moots MXC is billed by the brand as their most progressive hardtail yet, “designed for buff trails, demanding climbs, hours of hard pedaling, and those areas in the world where ‘downcountry’ trends don’t apply.” Honestly, we’re not sure what to make of that description, so perhaps it’s better to say this is a marathon XC bike with its ability to run up to a 38T chainring and three sets of water bottle mounts. The 100mm fork, paired with the 69° head tube angle, promises a fast and efficient pedaling machine.

  • Price: Complete bikes starting from $9,999
  • Buy from Moots.

The lightest Dynaplug yet

The new Dynaplug Micro Racer is the lightest tubeless tire repair tool from the brand to date. Weighing 15g, the Micro Racer comes with two ready-to-use plugs and is made in the USA.

  • Price: $49.99
  • Buy from dynaplug.com