Without a doubt the bikes took center stage at Outerbike. However, there were several new products (both new to the industry and new to me) that I had the opportunity to demo. Here is my short list of favorites from the weekend.
This knee pad was designed for both trail and enduro riders. Its mesh fabric was particularly cool in the heat of the day. With two straps for fine tuning the fit, the knee pads stayed comfortably in place. This would be a great all-day knee pad.
Details from Spank/iXS:
- super light weight and super compact design.
- “X-Matter ™” – high impact absorption, energy absorbing, open cell, slow rebound foam compound.
- 360 all around breathable “AeroMesh ™”, moisture wicking, anti bacterial – does not stink!.
- tear resistant and stretchable Kevlar knee cover .
- “KneeGusset ™” integrated horse shoe formed pad to prevent from rolling and to spread impact force.
- “LoopLock ™” – fasteners. maximum security and adjustability, decompression.
Michael Paul already did a phenomal job reviewing this helmet. However, after taking it on a couple of test rides, I feel the need to reiterate how great the iXS Trail RS was for both comfort and functionality. Is it bad that I kind of want to crash as an excuse to replace my current helmet?
Spank Oozy Alloy Bar
Remember WAY back in the day when you used to run an aluminum bar and have arms that felt like they went several rounds with last year’s heavyweight champion? Remember when you switched to carbon and swore never to go back? Yeah, me too, until I demo’d a bike with the Spank Oozy alloy bar. If I could ride blindfolded, I would swear it was carbon. Spank has come quite a long way since the last time I rode with an aluminum bar.
Thumb Over Grip System (TOGS)
TOGS has only been in existence for 14 months. And while not for everyone, I could see this product being quickly adopted amongst the XC and endurance racers. With an already cluttered cockpit for most enduro/trail bikes due to the widespread adoption of dropper posts, it would best be utilized in a simpler setup. All day events also drive the desire to have multiple hand placement positions to reduce fatigue.
Cliff’s Banana and Mango with Coconut Fruit Pouch
I’ll be the first to admit that this fruit pouch reminded me of the fruit pouches that I give my kid. However, there’s no way I would share this with anyone, including my child. It was entirely too delicious. The banana and mango were pleasantly sweet on the palate, but not overly sweet, and the coconut pieces added a little bit of texture and flavoring. I can’t wait until this product hits the shelf.
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