<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" > <channel> <title>bars Archives - Singletracks Mountain Bike News</title> <atom:link href="https://www.singletracks.com/tag/bars/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <link>https://www.singletracks.com/tag/bars/</link> <description>Mountain bike news, bike reviews, trail information, and tips for better riding.</description> <lastBuildDate>Thu, 12 Sep 2024 19:46:32 +0000</lastBuildDate> <language>en-US</language> <sy:updatePeriod> hourly </sy:updatePeriod> <sy:updateFrequency> 1 </sy:updateFrequency> <generator>https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.1</generator> <image> <url>https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/cropped-singletracks_gradient-32x32.jpg</url> <title>bars Archives - Singletracks Mountain Bike News</title> <link>https://www.singletracks.com/tag/bars/</link> <width>32</width> <height>32</height> </image> <item> <title>The OneUp 35mm Carbon Handlebar is Ovalized to Aid Vibration Damping [Review]</title> <link>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/the-oneup-35mm-carbon-handlebar-is-ovalized-to-aid-vibration-damping-review/</link> <comments>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/the-oneup-35mm-carbon-handlebar-is-ovalized-to-aid-vibration-damping-review/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Gerow]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 19 Dec 2019 07:36:09 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Gear]]></category> <category><![CDATA[bar]]></category> <category><![CDATA[bars]]></category> <category><![CDATA[cockpit]]></category> <category><![CDATA[mtb bar]]></category> <category><![CDATA[mtb bars]]></category> <category><![CDATA[oneup components]]></category> <category><![CDATA[review]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.singletracks.com/?p=292666</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Many mountain bike handlebars with a 35mm clamp diameter can feel harsh, so OneUp designed theirs with an ovalized shape to give them more flex.</p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/the-oneup-35mm-carbon-handlebar-is-ovalized-to-aid-vibration-damping-review/">The OneUp 35mm Carbon Handlebar is Ovalized to Aid Vibration Damping [Review]</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[</p> <figure class="wp-block-image"><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/DSC1580.jpg"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="1170" height="780" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/DSC1580-1170x780.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-292339" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/DSC1580-1170x780.jpg 1170w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/DSC1580-750x500.jpg 750w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/DSC1580-768x512.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/DSC1580-600x400.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /></a><figcaption>Here you can see the thinner profile of the mid bar that allows for some vertical flex. </figcaption></figure> <p>OneUp’s new <a href="https://www.oneupcomponents.com/products/carbon-bar">Carbon Handlebar</a> is available in a sole 35mm clamp diameter, which is a recent spec that I personally find too stiff and harsh. The company’s engineers apparently had a similar sensation, and have worked to design a bar that offers the stiffer steering characteristics of a 35mm bar, with a cozier amount of vertical flex. </p> <p>They achieved these attributes by shortening the central 35mm segment of the bar, allowing it to quickly taper away from the stem into an ovalized wing shape similar to road bike aero-bars, and finally reaching a round 22mm diameter under the controls and grips. OneUp claims that the bar’s unique shape results in “a 21% increase in vertical compliance (comfort) coupled with a 28% increase in steering stiffness (responsiveness)” on average. </p> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" width="1170" height="780" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/DSC1578-1170x780.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-292349" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/DSC1578-1170x780.jpg 1170w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/DSC1578-750x500.jpg 750w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/DSC1578-768x512.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/DSC1578-600x400.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /><figcaption>From a rider’s eye view it is similar to any other carbon handlebar. </figcaption></figure> <p>For the aesthetically concerned, the bar looks similar to any other from just a few feet away. Unlike the <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/syncros-hixon-ic-rise-integrated-cockpit-review/">Syncros Hixon</a> handlebar, no one has asked me what space ship the OneUp bars fell from. Instead, its shapely benefits are largely hidden from view, and immediately apparent in the hand. You can add colorful decals to match your bike or maintain its natural stealth finish. A series of markings around the controls not only look sweet, but they will also help you dial in your lever positioning with exact symmetry.</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Price $138 (available at <a href="https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=pl&ti=1469&pw=9603&mi=11465&pt=3&pri=244059">CompetitiveCyclist.com</a>)</li><li>Weight 220g (20mm rise tested)</li><li>Clamp diameter 35mm</li><li>Rise 20 or 35mm</li><li>Geometry 800mm wide, 8° back sweep, 5° up sweep </li></ul> <p>On rougher descents, most 35mm bars give me the sensation that my fork’s compression is wound tight. These OneUp bars feel closer to those 31.8mm sticks we enjoyed in the dust laden antiquity of 4 years past. They offer enough flex and vibration damping to keep my hands and wrists far happier than other large clamp bars, without sacrificing the lateral cornering stiffness that 35mm bars are known for. I am not a heavy enough rider to sense the full range of cornering benefits these bars include, but I know that they feel decidedly better than any other 35mm bar I have held on to. </p> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" width="1170" height="780" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/DSC1572-1170x780.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-292341" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/DSC1572-1170x780.jpg 1170w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/DSC1572-750x500.jpg 750w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/DSC1572-768x512.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/DSC1572-600x400.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /><figcaption>Dial it all in with the clear series of measuring marks on either side. </figcaption></figure> <p>As for OneUp’s new handlebar, it’s rare that I test a piece of gear and wouldn’t change a thing when it’s time to write the review. This carbon bar represents one of those snowflake components that was made perfect from the jump, and it’s well worth what they’re asking. </p> <p> <p><em>Thanks to OneUp for providing the handlebars for testing.</em> </p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/the-oneup-35mm-carbon-handlebar-is-ovalized-to-aid-vibration-damping-review/">The OneUp 35mm Carbon Handlebar is Ovalized to Aid Vibration Damping [Review]</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/the-oneup-35mm-carbon-handlebar-is-ovalized-to-aid-vibration-damping-review/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>3</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>8 Hungry Mountain Bikers Blindly Taste 10 Energy Bars to Find the Best</title> <link>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-tips/snack-bar-taste-test/</link> <comments>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-tips/snack-bar-taste-test/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Jeff Barber]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 05 Nov 2018 10:43:05 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Tips]]></category> <category><![CDATA[bar]]></category> <category><![CDATA[bars]]></category> <category><![CDATA[clif]]></category> <category><![CDATA[clif bar]]></category> <category><![CDATA[energy bar]]></category> <category><![CDATA[energy bars]]></category> <category><![CDATA[honey stinger]]></category> <category><![CDATA[nutrition bar]]></category> <category><![CDATA[peanut butter]]></category> <category><![CDATA[review]]></category> <category><![CDATA[snack bar]]></category> <category><![CDATA[snack bars]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=250082</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Our panel of 8 hungry mountain bikers taste tested 10 different energy bars to find out which ones taste best.</p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-tips/snack-bar-taste-test/">8 Hungry Mountain Bikers Blindly Taste 10 Energy Bars to Find the Best</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-1-1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1170" height="878" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-1-1-1170x878.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-250333" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-1-1-1170x878.jpg 1170w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-1-1-750x563.jpg 750w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-1-1-768x576.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-1-1-600x450.jpg 600w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-1-1.jpg 1200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /></a></figure> <p>There are two types of people in the world: those who simply look at food as fuel, and those who don’t. Whatever you call them — energy bars, trail snacks, or simply bars — these products are designed to fuel mountain bikers before, during, or after the ride.</p> <p>Still, no one wants to eat something that tastes bad.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image alignnone size-large wp-image-250339"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1170" height="780" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-1-1170x780.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-250339" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-1-1170x780.jpg 1170w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-1-750x500.jpg 750w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-1-600x400.jpg 600w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-1.jpg 1200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Not sure that any of these pair well with beer, but our panel proceeded undeterred.</figcaption></figure> <p>I decided to ask eight hungry mountain bikers which bars they thought were tastiest. After a 2 hour mountain bike ride, each participant was asked to blindly taste 10 different bars and rate the flavor and texture of each. Here’s how the results stacked up.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-1-scratch-labs-peanut-butter-and-strawberries">1. Scratch Labs Peanut Butter and Strawberries</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1170" height="780" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-2-2-1170x780.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-250325" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-2-2-1170x780.jpg 1170w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-2-2-750x500.jpg 750w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-2-2-768x512.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-2-2-600x400.jpg 600w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-2-2.jpg 1200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /></figure> <p>It’s settled: you can’t go wrong with good old fashioned peanut butter and jelly, at least when it comes to this crowd of mountain bikers. Scratch Labs describes this energy bar as “slightly sweet.” The bar is said to be gluten- and dairy-free, and it’s also vegan. The ingredient list is fairly lengthy but everything is totally recognizable from the first ingredient (nut butter) to the last (tapioca.)</p> <p>Leon nailed this one, saying it “tastes like peanut butter & jelly!” Craig D was thrown off a bit saying he didn’t know what to think but gave it “points for unique flavor.” According to Chase, the Scratch Labs PB & Strawberries bar has “just enough peanut butter.”</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-2-clif-cool-mint-chocolate">2. Clif Cool Mint Chocolate</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="993" height="1170" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-3-1-993x1170.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-250335" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-3-1-993x1170.jpg 993w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-3-1-636x750.jpg 636w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-3-1-768x905.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-3-1-600x707.jpg 600w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-3-1.jpg 1200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 993px) 100vw, 993px" /></figure> <p>This flavor has been around for a long time, and it’s a staple for a lot of riders like myself. The version we tested contains caffeine for that added bit of a pick-me-up during the ride. Clif bars are among the largest (by weight) in our test, and correspondingly tend to pack the most calories (fuel) in a single bar.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1170" height="791" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-1-2-1170x791.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-250328" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-1-2-1170x791.jpg 1170w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-1-2-750x507.jpg 750w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-1-2-768x519.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-1-2-600x406.jpg 600w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-1-2.jpg 1200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /></figure> <p>Everyone picked up on the mint flavor, which is often a welcome cool taste during or after a hot ride. The only complaints from our panel were that the bar tasted a little grainy (Chris) and that it was dry (Paul).</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-3-honey-stinger-peanut-butter">3. Honey Stinger Peanut Butter</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1170" height="823" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-7-1170x823.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-250324" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-7-1170x823.jpg 1170w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-7-750x528.jpg 750w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-7-768x540.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-7-600x422.jpg 600w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-7.jpg 1200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /></figure> <p>Technically, the package says this is a Honey Stinger Organic Cracker N’ Nut Butter Snack Bar with Peanut Butter filled bars covered in Milk Chocolate with multigrain crackers & Sea Salt. This is part of a new snack bar line from Honey Stinger, which Matt first <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/blog/mtb-gear/fuel-up-with-french-toast-flavored-gu-recover-with-a-cannabidiol-infused-protein-shake/">reported on from Interbike</a>. Essentially it’s two crackers with peanut butter spread in between them, and the whole thing is covered in chocolate.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1170" height="878" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-4-1170x878.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-250334" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-4-1170x878.jpg 1170w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-4-750x563.jpg 750w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-4-768x576.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-4-600x450.jpg 600w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-4.jpg 1200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /></figure> <p>If you skip ahead, you’ll notice another Cracker N’ Nut Butter bar follows this one at #4. More than one of our testers asked if these two bars were in fact the same since they couldn’t taste a difference. The rankings, however, show there was a significant difference in how our panel rated the peanut butter vs. almond butter flavors.</p> <p>Paul noted this bar is “crisp, salty, good.” To Chris B, it tastes “like a pretzel with chocolate.” Craig D compares it to a salty Kit Kat bar.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-4-honey-stinger-almond-butter">4. Honey Stinger Almond Butter</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1170" height="810" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-5-1-1170x810.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-250329" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-5-1-1170x810.jpg 1170w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-5-1-750x519.jpg 750w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-5-1-768x532.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-5-1-600x416.jpg 600w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-5-1.jpg 1200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /></figure> <p>After averaging our panel’s ranking of each bar, a full point separated the two flavors of Honey Stinger Cracker N’ Nut Butter bars, which is more than the separation between #1-3, and equal to the difference between the three lowest-ranked bars. Clearly our tasters had a preference for the peanut butter over the almond version.</p> <p>Kaleb summed up the situation, saying the almond butter snack bar tasted like a “worse version of [the Honey Stinger peanut butter bar.]” The Craigs were divided, with Craig D saying this one “tastes like candy” while Craig H noted the bar “finishes weird.”</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-5-larabar-apple-pie">5. Larabar Apple Pie</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1170" height="780" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-6-1170x780.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-250326" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-6-1170x780.jpg 1170w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-6-750x500.jpg 750w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-6-768x512.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-6-600x400.jpg 600w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-6.jpg 1200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /></figure> <p>Larabar prides themselves on keeping the ingredient list short and sweet, and they claim their bars are soy-, gluten-, and dairy-free, in addition to being vegan. The Apple Pie bar is made from dates, almonds, apples, walnuts, raisins, and cinnamon. It’s a soft bar with crunchy nuts, and generally one of my personal favorites.</p> <p>As one of the bars that ended up in the middle of the pack, views on this one tended to be pretty polarizing. Craig H says the bar “tastes home made,” yet he ranked it dead last (not sure what that says about his view of home cooking.) Kaleb called this one “fruit cake” which isn’t saying much given the reputation for fruit cake among Americans.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1170" height="780" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-3-1170x780.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-250337" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-3-1170x780.jpg 1170w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-3-750x500.jpg 750w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-3-768x512.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-3-600x400.jpg 600w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-3.jpg 1200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /></figure> <p>Craig D called Lara’s apple pie “fruity and pleasant,” while a couple others ranked this one at or near the top of their lists.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-6-rxbar-peanut-butter">6. RXBar Peanut Butter</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1170" height="878" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-2-1-1170x878.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-250332" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-2-1-1170x878.jpg 1170w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-2-1-750x563.jpg 750w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-2-1-768x576.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-2-1-600x450.jpg 600w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-2-1.jpg 1200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /></figure> <p>RXBar takes the cake when it comes to a simple ingredient list. In fact, the company lists the ingredients and quantities right on the front of the package. The Peanut Butter bar we tasted has 3 egg whites, 14 peanuts, 2 dates, and “no B.S.” (The official ingredient list adds in natural flavors and sea salt, which may or may not be B.S., depending on your perspective.)</p> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1170" height="804" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-3-2-1170x804.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-250323" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-3-2-1170x804.jpg 1170w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-3-2-750x516.jpg 750w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-3-2-768x528.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-3-2-600x413.jpg 600w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-3-2.jpg 1200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /></figure> <p>Paul really liked this one, saying it tastes like a “chewy brownie,” despite the fact that it contains zero chocolate or chocolate-like ingredients. Most of the other reviewers noted the RXBar was a bit on the chewy side. Craig D notes the bar has a “normal energy bar flavor” while Kaleb was not impressed, saying the bar is both “bland [and has] bad texture.”</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-7-scratch-parmesan-and-black-pepper">7.Scratch Parmesan and Black Pepper</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1170" height="780" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-8-1170x780.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-250331" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-8-1170x780.jpg 1170w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-8-750x500.jpg 750w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-8-768x512.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-8-600x400.jpg 600w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-8.jpg 1200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /></figure> <p>This is another bar we sampled at Interbike, and clearly the flavor is a little out there. Personally, I dig it.</p> <p>I warned the group that one of the samples was savory just to make sure no one was thrown off too much, and I’m pleasantly surprised this didn’t end up at the bottom of the list. One of our vegetarian testers asked me to confirm the bar didn’t contain any meat, which is a valid question because the thing smells like a pepperoni pizza or a stick of beef jerky.</p> <p>Kaleb and one other ranked this one among their favorites. Leon says “garlic doesn’t belong in an energy bar,” while Craig D compared the flavor to Pepperoni Pizza flavor Combos, which happens to be one of my favorite snacks. Chris wasn’t sure what to make of this, asking, “What is happening?” Paul suspects it’s “Mexican something.”</p> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1170" height="780" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-2-1170x780.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-250338" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-2-1170x780.jpg 1170w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-2-750x500.jpg 750w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-2-768x512.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-2-600x400.jpg 600w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-2.jpg 1200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /></figure> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-8-rxbar-blueberry-tie">8. RXBar Blueberry (tie)</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1170" height="916" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-9-1170x916.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-250327" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-9-1170x916.jpg 1170w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-9-750x587.jpg 750w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-9-768x601.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-9-600x470.jpg 600w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-9.jpg 1200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /></figure> <p>Curiously, the ingredient list on the front of the Blueberry RXBar doesn’t list blueberries. Perhaps that should have been a sign that our tasters would not rank this one highly. (To be fair, blueberries are listed as the <em>fifth</em> ingredient on the back of the package.)</p> <p>Craig D liked the Blueberry RXBar, saying it has “kind of a bubblegum flavor.” Like the other RX Bar in the test, more than one person found the texture to be “chewy.” Kaleb was perhaps the most critical, saying the bar “tastes like foam [and is] too sticky.”</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-8-r-e-d-d-chocolate-tie">8. R.e.d.d. Chocolate (tie)</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1170" height="924" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-4-1-1170x924.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-250330" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-4-1-1170x924.jpg 1170w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-4-1-750x593.jpg 750w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-4-1-768x607.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-4-1-600x474.jpg 600w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/energy_bar_test-4-1.jpg 1200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /></figure> <p>Poor R.e.d.d. The name stands for “research enhanced design + development,” and judging by the packaging, each bar packs a lot of good stuff like protein and “superfoods” plus more than 30 vitamins and minerals. Unfortunately, as we found in our <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/blog/mtb-gear/we-taste-tested-10-sports-drinks-to-determine-which-ones-were-the-least-awful/">sports drink taste test</a>, the most beneficial products tend to taste the worst. Big shocker: people don’t often like to eat what’s good for them.</p> <p>Chris B really enjoyed this one, rating it at the top of his list saying it’s “chocolatey but not too sweet [with a] good texture.” Kaleb, on the other hand, says the bar starts off strong with a “good, dense texture” but finishes with a “weird tangy aftertaste.” Paul says it’s “nondescript, but tolerable.” Craig D notes this one has a “very energy bar flavor.”</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-10-r-e-d-d-oatmeal">10. R.e.d.d. Oatmeal</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1170" height="780" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/redd_oatmeal-1-1170x780.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-250322" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/redd_oatmeal-1-1170x780.jpg 1170w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/redd_oatmeal-1-750x500.jpg 750w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/redd_oatmeal-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/redd_oatmeal-1-600x400.jpg 600w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/redd_oatmeal-1.jpg 1200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /></figure> <p>Like the Chocolate R.e.d.d. energy bar, the oatmeal version packs about the same amount of caffeine as a third of an 8 ounce cup of coffee, and is gluten- and soy-free. The label says it’s vegan, but not dairy-free, perhaps due to the fact that it’s “manufactured on equipment that also processes” milk, among other things like eggs. So for very strict vegans, this might not cut the mustard.</p> <p>No one rated this flavor above the middle of the pack, simply calling it “average” or noting it’s “not my flavor.” Chris B said the texture is “a bit dusty” while Kaleb called it “crumbly, in a bad way.”</p> <hr class="wp-block-separator has-css-opacity"/> <p>We had a lot of fun taste testing these energy bars, though clearly taste isn’t everything and these “results” are completely subjective. Just as important, if not more so, are the performance and nutritional benefits, plus other considerations like food allergies and dietary restrictions.</p> <p>The good thing is energy bars aren’t expensive, so buy them all and see for yourself which ones taste best <em>to you</em>!</p> <p>While we were able to test 10 different bars, there are many more flavors and brands out there, so let us know which are your favorites. And also which ones you can’t stomach.</p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-tips/snack-bar-taste-test/">8 Hungry Mountain Bikers Blindly Taste 10 Energy Bars to Find the Best</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-tips/snack-bar-taste-test/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>6</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Spank Industries’ Green Filler Is the Carbon Killer: Review of the Oozy Trail 760 Vibrocore Bar</title> <link>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/spank-industries-green-filler-carbon-killer-review-oozy-trail-760-vibrocore-bar/</link> <comments>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/spank-industries-green-filler-carbon-killer-review-oozy-trail-760-vibrocore-bar/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Chris Daniels]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 06 Feb 2018 15:00:06 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Gear]]></category> <category><![CDATA[bar]]></category> <category><![CDATA[bars]]></category> <category><![CDATA[carbon bars]]></category> <category><![CDATA[handlebar review]]></category> <category><![CDATA[review]]></category> <category><![CDATA[reviews]]></category> <category><![CDATA[spank]]></category> <category><![CDATA[spank industries]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Spank spike vibrocore]]></category> <category><![CDATA[vibrocore]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=228893</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>The SPANK Industries Oozy Trail 760 Vibrocore bar damps vibration significantly better than standard aluminum bars... but is it better than carbon? And how do the price and weight stack up? Chris gives us the full breakdown in this mountain bike gear review.</p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/spank-industries-green-filler-carbon-killer-review-oozy-trail-760-vibrocore-bar/">Spank Industries’ Green Filler Is the Carbon Killer: Review of the Oozy Trail 760 Vibrocore Bar</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/DSC05079.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-232886" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/DSC05079-1200x800.jpg" alt="" width="1170" height="780" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/DSC05079-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/DSC05079-620x413.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/DSC05079-768x512.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/DSC05079-750x500.jpg 750w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /></a></p> <p>Despite the superior comfort and light weight of carbon, alloy takes the win on other fronts such as price, environmental impact, and safety. As such, there’s still a place for heavy, head-bangin’ metal in mountain biking, both now and in the foreseeable future. Since the introduction of Vibrocore into their handlebars (circa 2014), <a href="http://www.spank-ind.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">SPANK Industries</a> has all but obliterated the stark contrast in bar feel between the uniquely different materials. SPANK currently offers Vibrocore in their Spike 800 Race bar, Spike 777 FR bar, and a bar I had the opportunity to review, the <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Handlebars/Spank-Oozy-Trail-760-Vibrocore_15240" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Oozy Trail 760 Vibrocore</a>. To complement the Oozy bar, I paired it with a 50mm SPANK Spike Race stem.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/IMG_6037.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-232896" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/IMG_6037-1200x900.jpg" alt="" width="1170" height="878" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/IMG_6037-1200x900.jpg 1200w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/IMG_6037-620x465.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/IMG_6037-768x576.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /></a></p> <p>Filling the inside of the bar is a “complex foam core of precisely controlled density” which reduces trail-induced vibrations transmitted from bar to body. Vibrocore also increases bar stiffness and durability.</p> <p>To me, it actually sounds like SPANK is offering everything a carbon bar does minus the bank-breaking price tag. In fact, SPANK Industries has upped the ante on carbon bars by not only marketing Vibrocore as a carbon alternative, but <em>proving</em> the green filler is now the carbon killer! SPANK has produced a slick <a href="http://www.spank-ind.com/Spank%20VibrocoreTM%20Frequency%20Analysis%20Test%20Report.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">15-page analysis</a> explaining how they arrived at such a conclusion. I’ve included the condensed version below.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/DSC05090.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-232887" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/DSC05090-1200x800.jpg" alt="" width="1170" height="780" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/DSC05090-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/DSC05090-620x413.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/DSC05090-768x512.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/DSC05090-750x500.jpg 750w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /></a></p> <p>The Oozy product line from SPANK is optimized for all-mountain, enduro, and aggro trail riding (whatever that is). It’s a little lighter, slightly narrower, and less burly than the DH-ready Spike products. The Oozy bar provides modest geometry, including a 4º upsweep, 6º backsweep, your choice between a 5 or 15mm rise, and a 760mm width. SPANK only offers a 31.8mm clamp diameter on all of their bars (more on that below). I should also mention that the finishing touches — a shot peen anodization and brilliant color choices — on the Oozy bar are nothing short of stunning.</p> <h2>Oozy Trail 760 Vibrocore Bar Specs</h2> <ul> <li><strong>Material:</strong> Seven-series alloy</li> <li><strong>Finish:</strong> Shot peen anodized</li> <li><strong>Diameter:</strong> 31.8mm</li> <li><strong>Width:</strong> 760mm (adjustable to 730)</li> <li><strong>Rise:</strong> 5mm or 15mm</li> <li><strong>Geometry:</strong> 4º up, 6º back</li> <li><strong>Weight:</strong> 275g</li> <li><strong>Colors:</strong> Black, blue, red</li> <li><strong>MSRP:</strong> $99</li> </ul> <h2>Spank Industries – Vibrocore Test Conclusion</h2> <p><span class="st_caption_shortcode_fix"><figure class="wp-block-image"><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Screenshot-2018-01-15-18.07.40.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-232888 size-full" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Screenshot-2018-01-15-18.07.40.jpg" alt="" width="1113" height="538" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Screenshot-2018-01-15-18.07.40.jpg 1113w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Screenshot-2018-01-15-18.07.40-620x300.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Screenshot-2018-01-15-18.07.40-768x371.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1113px) 100vw, 1113px" /></a><figcaption>One vibration cycle. Graphs by SPANK Industries.</figcaption></figure></span></p> <ul> <li>Vibration is a measure of frequency (how often) and amplitude (how “high”). When graphed, a vibration cycle looks like a sine wave with a high and low point.</li> <li>The amount of vibrational energy experienced during mountain biking falls within a range that puts riders at risk for hand/arm numbness and fatigue, and arm pump.</li> <li>While alloy, steel, and carbon all reduce vibration (damp), they also resonate, which amplifies vibration and produces higher than normal energy transmission to the hand and arm–not good. Resonance depends on the material, geometry, and construction of the bar.</li> <li>In terms of damping and resonance patterns, traditional alloy (31.8mm), the 35mm bar standard, carbon fiber, and Vibrocore are very similar. They all damp at very high and very low frequencies while resonating within a similar frequency range.</li> <li>The issue SPANK attempts to address is improving damping within the typical resonance frequency range. (Note: SPANK does not make carbon fiber bars or 35mm bar clamp diameters.)</li> </ul> <p><span class="st_caption_shortcode_fix"><figure class="wp-block-image"><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Screenshot-2018-01-15-18.08.07.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-232889 size-full" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Screenshot-2018-01-15-18.08.07.jpg" alt="" width="1113" height="507" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Screenshot-2018-01-15-18.08.07.jpg 1113w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Screenshot-2018-01-15-18.08.07-620x282.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Screenshot-2018-01-15-18.08.07-768x350.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1113px) 100vw, 1113px" /></a><figcaption>All bars damp and resonate within a similar range of frequency.</figcaption></figure></span></p> <h3>Conclusion</h3> <ul> <li><strong>Traditional 31.8mm alloy:</strong> in resonance range, this bar shows the least effective damping.</li> <li><strong>Carbon fiber:</strong> although carbon damping is better than alloy within the resonance range, carbon resonates more often at frequencies commonly found in mountain biking. In other words, the well-known damping characteristics of carbon may overshadow evidence suggesting it’s not as effective since it resonates so much during mountain biking.</li> <li><strong>35mm bar clamp (alloy):</strong> 35mm alloy bars actually damp the least in the resonance range while also resonating at lower frequencies — the worst performers.</li> <li><strong>Vibrocore:</strong> in the resonance range, Vibrocore is better than the aforementioned at damping and also moves the resonance range to a frequency less common in mountain biking. “The combined effect is at least a 30% reduction in harmful vibrations transmitted to the hands and arms when compared to the above bar types,” according to SPANK.</li> </ul> <p><span class="st_caption_shortcode_fix"><figure class="wp-block-image"><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Screenshot-2018-01-15-18.08.23.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-232890 size-full" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Screenshot-2018-01-15-18.08.23.jpg" alt="" width="1118" height="549" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Screenshot-2018-01-15-18.08.23.jpg 1118w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Screenshot-2018-01-15-18.08.23-620x304.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Screenshot-2018-01-15-18.08.23-768x377.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1118px) 100vw, 1118px" /></a><figcaption>Results showing Vibrocore demonstrates the least amount of amplitude in resonance range.</figcaption></figure></span></p> <p>Of course, such a “study” has obvious limitations. Nevermind it was probably funded by, designed, and carried out with total SPANK control, but there was no mention of actual test bars used. Nevertheless, I applaud an MTB component manufacturer for going the long mile, making available actual test results to the public instead of simply feeding us marketing speak. Still, in the world of extreme mountainous cycling, no amount of data can overcome the vague and nuanced conclusions of an amateur rider/writer, right?</p> <h2>On The Trail</h2> <p><span class="st_caption_shortcode_fix"><figure class="wp-block-image"><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/GPTempDownload.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-232891 size-large" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/GPTempDownload-1200x675.jpg" alt="" width="1170" height="658" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/GPTempDownload-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/GPTempDownload-620x349.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/GPTempDownload-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/GPTempDownload.jpg 1920w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /></a><figcaption>Photos by Chris Daniels</figcaption></figure></span></p> <p>Surprisingly, while riding I wasn’t thinking about the ins and outs of resonance, frequency, and amplitude as much as I was about how generally awesome this bar is! In the interest of full disclosure, two years ago I published my thoughts in a full review of the SPANK Spike 800 Race bar with Vibrocore. Before the Spike, I was using a 31.8mm alloy bar. After the Spike, I went with a 31.8mm carbon ENVE bar. As a side, my backup bike came stock with a 35mm clamp alloy bar which was quickly replaced with a 35mm clamp carbon bar. So, here I am coming full circle with another Vibrocore — this time after having spent a significant amount of time on more types of bars than were included in the SPANK Vibrocore study.</p> <p>[see_also id=’178682′]</p> <p>I will side with SPANK in that traditional 31.8mm alloy and 35mm alloy are the least effective in damping trail vibrations. I cannot, however, reconcile SPANK’s lab result that Vibrocore is better at damping than carbon and what I <em>actually</em> feel on the trail between the two materials. Unfortunately, SPANK does not disclose the brand of carbon bar used in their study.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/GPTempDownload1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-232892" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/GPTempDownload1-1200x675.jpg" alt="" width="1170" height="658" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/GPTempDownload1-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/GPTempDownload1-620x349.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/GPTempDownload1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/GPTempDownload1.jpg 1920w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /></a></p> <p>The Vibrocore definitely damps in a way that is, on the trail, distinguishable from other alloy bars. The added stiffness claims are also verifiable in the real world. In terms of durability, I’ve since moved the Spike Vibrocore bar to the bike of a close friend, and I can attest it looks as good as the day I unboxed it. My friend reports the Vibrocore has been a more than welcome feel for his tired and aging body.</p> <h2>Cost and Weight Considerations</h2> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/DSC05083.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-232893" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/DSC05083-1200x800.jpg" alt="" width="1170" height="780" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/DSC05083-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/DSC05083-620x413.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/DSC05083-768x512.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/DSC05083-750x500.jpg 750w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /></a></p> <p>According to SPANK, injecting Vibrocore adds 25-30g to the weight of a traditional alloy bar. The 5g discrepancy is presumably due to the difference between the two rise options (5mm and 15mm) of the Oozy Trail. This weight claim is not only consistent, but may be selling SPANK short, as I found many traditional alloy bars with the same geometry to be the same weight as, or heavier than, the Vibrocore bar. So, depending on exactly which alloy bar you’re considering, the Vibrocore may be the better choice on weight alone. When compared to carbon, I was also surprised to see that the Vibrocore bar was only about 60-70g heavier than some carbon bars of similar geometry. Two years ago, when I researched the weight discrepancy between the Spike Vibrocore and carbon bars, the difference was around 115g. SPANK has probably since shaved weight in the alloy component or refined the density of Vibrocore.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/GPTempDownload2.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-232894" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/GPTempDownload2-1200x675.jpg" alt="" width="1170" height="658" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/GPTempDownload2-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/GPTempDownload2-620x349.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/GPTempDownload2-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/GPTempDownload2.jpg 1920w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /></a></p> <p>Despite limited evidence that Vibrocore is “better” than carbon, I’m of the opinion that, on the trail, a carbon bar excels in reducing vibration. However, Vibrocore is a really, really close second. And this is where the conversation gets more interesting. The Oozy Trail 760 Vibrocore costs around $70-100 <em>less</em> than a carbon bar. Add to that the Vibrocore’s lean weight, slight increase in stiffness, reduction in environmental impact, and the fact that it’ll bend before it cracks, and Vibrocore is definitely more enticing than traditional alloy and, for some, will be a better option than carbon.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Screenshot-2018-01-15-18.08.59.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-232895" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Screenshot-2018-01-15-18.08.59.jpg" alt="" width="1115" height="805" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Screenshot-2018-01-15-18.08.59.jpg 1115w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Screenshot-2018-01-15-18.08.59-620x448.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Screenshot-2018-01-15-18.08.59-768x554.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1115px) 100vw, 1115px" /></a></p> <p><em>Thanks to SPANK Industries for sending me the Oozy Trail 760 Vibrocore bar for review!</em></p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/spank-industries-green-filler-carbon-killer-review-oozy-trail-760-vibrocore-bar/">Spank Industries’ Green Filler Is the Carbon Killer: Review of the Oozy Trail 760 Vibrocore Bar</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/spank-industries-green-filler-carbon-killer-review-oozy-trail-760-vibrocore-bar/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>5</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>10 Upgrades for Less Than $100 That Will Radically Improve Your Mountain Bike’s Performance</title> <link>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/10-upgrades-for-less-than-100-that-will-radically-improve-your-mountain-bikes-performance/</link> <comments>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/10-upgrades-for-less-than-100-that-will-radically-improve-your-mountain-bikes-performance/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Greg Heil]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 21 Dec 2017 16:14:37 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Gear]]></category> <category><![CDATA[affordable]]></category> <category><![CDATA[bars]]></category> <category><![CDATA[brakes]]></category> <category><![CDATA[buyers guide]]></category> <category><![CDATA[cables]]></category> <category><![CDATA[chainguide]]></category> <category><![CDATA[cheap]]></category> <category><![CDATA[grip]]></category> <category><![CDATA[grips]]></category> <category><![CDATA[mountain bike tires]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Mountain Biking on a Budget]]></category> <category><![CDATA[pedal]]></category> <category><![CDATA[pedals]]></category> <category><![CDATA[renthal]]></category> <category><![CDATA[rotor]]></category> <category><![CDATA[saddle]]></category> <category><![CDATA[stem]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Thomson]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Tubeless]]></category> <category><![CDATA[under $100]]></category> <category><![CDATA[upgrade]]></category> <category><![CDATA[upgrades]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WTB]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=41513</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>What upgrades can improve your mountain bike's performance? Consider new tires, a saddle, and more mtb products each under $100. </p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/10-upgrades-for-less-than-100-that-will-radically-improve-your-mountain-bikes-performance/">10 Upgrades for Less Than $100 That Will Radically Improve Your Mountain Bike’s Performance</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/10_mtb_upgrades_under_100.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="800" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/10_mtb_upgrades_under_100-1200x800.jpg" alt="10 mountain bike upgrades under $100" class="wp-image-230841" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/10_mtb_upgrades_under_100.jpg 1200w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/10_mtb_upgrades_under_100-620x413.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/10_mtb_upgrades_under_100-768x512.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/10_mtb_upgrades_under_100-750x500.jpg 750w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></a></figure> <p>We throw a lot of virtual ink around about the latest-and-greatest mountain bikes and components, many of them measured in the thousands of dollars. And while I personally love awesome, new components and blingy carbon wheels, the facts of life usually mean that I can’t buy those types of components every day… or even every year.</p> <p>Even if you or I can’t afford to drop over a grand on the latest and greatest drivetrain, that doesn’t mean there aren’t affordable upgrades available that will improve the way our bikes ride! Sometimes, paying attention to the small things can turn a worn-out bike on its last legs into the perfect steed for years to come. These 10 upgrades, each for $100 or less, are all guaranteed to have a massive impact on your bike’s performance: </p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-1-nbsp-new-mountain-bike-tires">1. New Mountain Bike Tires</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image"><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/IMG_0005-2-e1394723353309.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="620" height="413" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/IMG_0005-2-e1394723353309.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-41615" title="IMG_0005-2"/></a></figure> <p>Oftentimes, I think we take our tires for granted. Yeah, all mountain bikes have tires, my bike’s always had tires on it… I’ve never ridden a bike without tires. But since tires are the only part of the bike that touch the ground, the tires you run can make a <em>massive</em> difference in the way your bike performs!</p> <p>There are two issues that could prompt you to buy new <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/editors-choice-the-best-mountain-bike-tires/">mountain bike tires</a>:</p> <p>1) You could have the wrong tires for your local trails and the conditions you ride. Oftentimes, the tires that come stock on a mountain bike are cheap (lower cost for the bike company) and are halfway decent for average trail conditions. However, there’s really no such thing as “average” trails: soil composition, moisture level, and many other variables vary wildly from place to place. Maybe your stock mountain bike tires will work well for you, but maybe they won’t. If you don’t have the right tread and rubber compounds for your area, it’s time to upgrade.</p> <p>2) You could have worn down your tread significantly. Many times, I don’t really realize how worn my tread actually is; it’s not like it changes rapidly enough to notice it. However, when you place a worn mountain bike tire next to a brand new tire, you’ll see the wear… and when you finally get new rubber on your steed, you’ll notice the performance improvement!</p> <p>Note: you can easily spend more than $100 on a pair of mountain bike tires, but if you shop closeouts online and aren’t committed to buying the lightest tires, you should be able to re-shoe your bike for less than 100 bones.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-2-go-tubeless">2. Go Tubeless</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image alignnone"><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/DSCN1213-e1394723261184.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="620" height="465" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/DSCN1213-e1394723261184.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-41614"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo: dgaddis.</figcaption></figure> <p>I fought going tubeless for the longest time, but after moving to Colorado I had little choice: the combination of goat heads, cacti, and sharp rocks is lethal to tubes. However, after a relatively quick, painless, and affordable transition, I haven’t had a single flat with my new tubeless setup! Also, the traction benefits from lower pressure as well as the overall weight reduction are reason enough to switch. Yeah, I’m a believer. </p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-3-new-mountain-bike-grips">3. New Mountain Bike Grips</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image alignnone wp-image-232199 size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2000" height="1298" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/DSC09030.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-232199" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/DSC09030.jpg 2000w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/DSC09030-620x402.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/DSC09030-768x498.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/DSC09030-1200x779.jpg 1200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Oury Lock On Grips. Photo by Greg Heil</figcaption></figure> <p>As a general rule, some of the most important components on your mountain bike are the contact points–IE, where your body contacts the bike. Also, the tires mentioned in #1 and #2 contact the ground, so they’re vitally important as well. However, these contact points are often overlooked when shopping for and upgrading a bike, even though they aren’t expensive.</p> <p>The right pair of grips for your hands and your riding style can make a world of difference. Often this comes down to personal preference, so I recommend you try out a few different types, but at roughly $30 for even really nice <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/the-most-popular-mtb-grips-according-to-our-readers/">mountain bike grips</a>, this is a pretty affordable upgrade.</p> <p>For cross country riders, I personally recommend Ergon grips for weight distribution and comfort. However, if you’re into technical descending, a round grip is better–Oury grips offer great padding in a round form, but they’re definitely thick. Thinner round grips are plentiful. Im adding this</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-4-new-mountain-bike-pedals-and-or-cleats">4. New Mountain Bike Pedals and/or Cleats</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image alignnone wp-image-290799 size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="7952" height="5304" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/DSC1393.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-290799" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/DSC1393.jpg 7952w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/DSC1393-750x500.jpg 750w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/DSC1393-768x512.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/DSC1393-1170x780.jpg 1170w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/DSC1393-600x400.jpg 600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 7952px) 100vw, 7952px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo by Brian Gerow</figcaption></figure> <p>Whether you ride clipless or flats, <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/how-to-choose-the-best-mountain-bike-pedals/">mountain bike pedals</a>, like any other part of the bike, can wear out. As a contact point, they are very important, but are again often overlooked. However, you can easily get caught spending more than $100 on your new pedals, but if you’re willing to sacrifice a few grams, you can score new ones for well under $100. Be sure to check out the Shimano Saint MX80 Reviews.</p> <p>If you buy new clipless pedals, cleats will be included, so be sure to replace the ones on your shoes. However, sometimes all that’s required to make a set of old pedals feel new is simply replacing your worn-out cleats.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-5-new-mountain-bike-saddle">5. New Mountain Bike Saddle</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image alignnone wp-image-268614 size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1801" height="1200" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/wtb_volt-2.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-268614" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/wtb_volt-2.jpg 1801w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/wtb_volt-2-750x500.jpg 750w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/wtb_volt-2-768x512.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/wtb_volt-2-1170x780.jpg 1170w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/wtb_volt-2-600x400.jpg 600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1801px) 100vw, 1801px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">WTB Volt. Photo: Matt Miller</figcaption></figure> <p><a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/how-to-choose-the-best-mountain-bike-saddle/">Saddles</a> are a very personal component–the saddle that came stock on your mountain bike might fit you perfectly, it might fit you reasonably well, or it may just not be the right size/shape for your anatomy. Finding a saddle that fits properly can make a world of difference, and if you’re willing to buy the budget-friendly model that’s a few grams heavier, many comfortable saddles can be had for less than $100. </p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-6-new-mountain-bike-stem">6. New Mountain Bike Stem</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image alignnone wp-image-230893 size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1936" height="1296" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/interbike-2017-131.jpg" alt="thomson elite stem interbike" class="wp-image-230893" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/interbike-2017-131.jpg 1936w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/interbike-2017-131-620x415.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/interbike-2017-131-768x514.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/interbike-2017-131-1200x803.jpg 1200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1936px) 100vw, 1936px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Thomson Elite X4 stem, MSRP $99</figcaption></figure> <p>If you thought mountain bike stems were just for bike-fitting purposes, think again. A shorter mountain bike stem brings down your overall reach so that you’re able to get quicker response and better control over the front end of the bike. Many downhill bikes will have a super short 40-50mm stem and mountain bike stems on trail bikes often range between 60-80mm; cross-country bikes typically have stems in the 100-120mm range. Depending what kind of riding you do, you should have no problem finding the right length stem under $100 but expect to pay more for carbon (as usual!). </p> <p></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-7-new-mountain-bike-handlebars">7. New <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/how-to-choose-the-best-mtb-handlebars-a-buyers-guide/">Mountain Bike Handlebars</a></h2> <figure class="wp-block-image alignnone size-full wp-image-230894"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="3740" height="2504" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Orange-Five-14.jpg" alt="Renthal Fatbar 35 Riser Bar, MSRP $85" class="wp-image-230894" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Orange-Five-14.jpg 3740w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Orange-Five-14-620x415.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Orange-Five-14-768x514.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Orange-Five-14-1200x803.jpg 1200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 3740px) 100vw, 3740px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Renthal Fatbar 35 Riser Bar, MSRP $97</figcaption></figure> <p>Just like changing out your stock stem, replacing your stock bars can also affect the control and maneuverability of your mountain bike. Some handlebars are better suited for riding disciplines so aside from price, you’ll want to consider things like bar width, clamp diameter, rise and sweep. For specific mountain bike handlebar recommendations, check out our <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/?gear=handlebars">mountain bike handlebar reviews</a>.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-8-mountain-bike-chainguide">8. Mountain Bike Chainguide</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="966" height="966" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/oneup-components-chainguide.jpeg" alt="Oneup Components Chainguide" class="wp-image-230892" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/oneup-components-chainguide.jpeg 966w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/oneup-components-chainguide-150x150.jpeg 150w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/oneup-components-chainguide-620x620.jpeg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/oneup-components-chainguide-768x768.jpeg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 966px) 100vw, 966px" /></figure> <p>Do you really need a chainguide? Not necessarily, but if you find yourself constantly stopping trailside to fiddle with your dropped chain… again… then this small contraption could save you a lot of frustration. Try a handy low profile, direct mount chainguide like this one from Oneup Components and say goodbye to dropped chains.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-9-larger-front-rotor">9. Larger Front Rotor</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image alignnone"><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/avihznyp-e1394724916870.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="601" height="620" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/avihznyp-e1394724916870.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-41623"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo: coloradocyclist.com</figcaption></figure> <p>I’ve often been discouraged by the stopping power of stock cross country bikes. What’s the issue? Do I need to buy a new set of brakes? New pads? What? Well, I’ve found that a simple increase in the size of the front rotor is an affordable, yet very effective, way to increase stopping power. If you buy a cheap rotor and spacer kit, this instantaneous power upgrade is well under $100.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-10-get-a-tune-up">10. Get a Tune Up</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image alignnone size-full wp-image-195498"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="3619" height="2423" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Brevard_Shops-30.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-195498" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Brevard_Shops-30.jpg 3619w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Brevard_Shops-30-620x415.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Brevard_Shops-30-768x514.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Brevard_Shops-30-1200x803.jpg 1200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 3619px) 100vw, 3619px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Squatch Bike Shop in Brevard, NC (photo: Aaron Chamberlain)</figcaption></figure> <p>There are so many ways that a mountain bike can deteriorate that it’s a little depressing, but if you’re truly addicted, what can you do? Well, one of the best ways you can invest your money is to keep on top of standard mountain bike maintenance.</p> <p>In addition to getting a full-blown tune up by a professional (which may be under $100, or may not), here are different components where a little maintenance can mean a big change in performance:</p> <p><strong>-Cables and Cable Housing: </strong>This seems to be a common story with me: I’ll be riding along, wondering why my bike shifts like crap, and I’ll realize that I haven’t had the cables and housing replaced in maybe two years. After a quick trip to the shop and about $30, my bike is shifting and riding like new! Don’t overestimate the value of a smooth-shifting bike</p> <p><strong>-Brakes:</strong> A quick brake bleed can sometimes do wonders for your brake performance! Also, a new set of pads can sometime make a big difference.</p> <p><strong>-Suspension:</strong> Make sure to keep up with the regular maintenance on your fork and shock (if applicable). If you neglect that maintenance and are wondering why your suspension feels like crap… that’s probably the reason.</p> <p><strong>-Bottom Bracket:</strong> Bottom brackets need to be cleaned and greased on a regular basis, and if you neglect that maintenance, you’ll soon be able to tell from the grinding and groaning every time you pedal.</p> <p>These are just a few suggestions for affordable upgrades that can really improve in how your mountain bike performs. What low-cost upgrades are you a fan of?</p> <p></p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/10-upgrades-for-less-than-100-that-will-radically-improve-your-mountain-bikes-performance/">10 Upgrades for Less Than $100 That Will Radically Improve Your Mountain Bike’s Performance</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/10-upgrades-for-less-than-100-that-will-radically-improve-your-mountain-bikes-performance/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>20</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Watch: FSA SL-K Carbon Cockpit Review</title> <link>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/watch-fsa-sl-k-carbon-cockpit-review/</link> <comments>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/watch-fsa-sl-k-carbon-cockpit-review/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Colton Lock]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 29 Jun 2017 09:55:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Gear]]></category> <category><![CDATA[27.2]]></category> <category><![CDATA[alloy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[bar]]></category> <category><![CDATA[bars]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Bike]]></category> <category><![CDATA[carbon]]></category> <category><![CDATA[fsa]]></category> <category><![CDATA[full speed ahead]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Mountain]]></category> <category><![CDATA[mountain bike]]></category> <category><![CDATA[mtb]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Race News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[review]]></category> <category><![CDATA[reviews]]></category> <category><![CDATA[seat]]></category> <category><![CDATA[seatpost]]></category> <category><![CDATA[stem]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VIBRATION]]></category> <category><![CDATA[video]]></category> <category><![CDATA[wheel]]></category> <category><![CDATA[wheels]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WIDE]]></category> <category><![CDATA[xc]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.singletracks.com/blog?p=199124&preview=true&preview_id=199124</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>I recently reviewed the SL-K Carbon Wheelset from Full Speed Ahead, or FSA, and loved it. FSA was kind enough to send me the matching SL-K cockpit set up (handlebar, stem, and seatpost) to match the set, and I’ve put these suckers to the test as well. The SL-K handlebar measures out at 740mm with 18mm of …</p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/watch-fsa-sl-k-carbon-cockpit-review/">Watch: FSA SL-K Carbon Cockpit Review</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><iframe loading="lazy" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yfvLsWtG8S0?ecver=1" width="560"></iframe></p> <p>I recently reviewed the <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/blog/mtb-gear/watch-fsa-sl-k-carbon-wheel-review/">SL-K Carbon Wheelset</a> from Full Speed Ahead, or FSA, and loved it. FSA was kind enough to send me the matching SL-K cockpit set up (handlebar, stem, and seatpost) to match the set, and I’ve put these suckers to the test as well.</p> <p>The <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Handlebars/FSA-SL-K-Carbon-Riser-Bar_14603#r13350">SL-K handlebar</a> measures out at 740mm with 18mm of rise. This makes for a really comfortable feel on longer days while still allowing the bars to put you in an aggressive position fit for XC race scenarios. The bars weigh a light 235g and are priced at $130, which is a pretty fair price for what you get. The SL-K handlebars are just a smidge heavier that their superior, the K-FORCE model, but are a whopping $70 cheaper. The bars have a 31.8mm clamp diameter which fits perfectly into the SL-K stem.</p> <p>Unlike the SL-K bars the <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Stems/FSA-SL-K-Alloy-Stem_14604#r13351">SL-K stem</a> is made of CNC machined alloy instead of carbon, though the stem faceplate is carbon. The stems have a 6 degree rise and come in a variety of lengths from 70mm-130mm. The 100mm stem weights in at 134g, which makes this stem neither the lightest nor the cheapest stem on the market. That being said, it is very solid and does exactly what a stem should.</p> <p>The <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Seatposts/FSA-SL-K-Carbon-SB20mm-Seatpost_14605">SL-K seatpost</a> comes in two different models, the SB20 (seen here) with 20mm setback and the SB0 with no setback. FSA revamped the SL-K seatpost and managed to drop the weight down to just 222g while still making it stiff and durable. It measures at 350mm long and fits into a 27.2 seatpost tube. The seat clamp is made of alloy and features an SBS clamp system, which is extremely nice because it has a wide range of adjustments for position and fit. At $90 this carbon seatpost is a great deal.</p> <p>Overall I think the SL-K cockpit set up is great. The carbon bars and seatpost are light, durable, and absorb a lot of vibration. The stem is a bit over priced for the weight but it does all you need a stem to do. When the whole set is put together it looks great and I think Full Speed Ahead knocked it out of the park yet again.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-217952" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/FSA-COCKPIT-STILL-1.jpg" alt="" width="1200" height="675" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/FSA-COCKPIT-STILL-1.jpg 1200w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/FSA-COCKPIT-STILL-1-620x349.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/FSA-COCKPIT-STILL-1-768x432.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/watch-fsa-sl-k-carbon-cockpit-review/">Watch: FSA SL-K Carbon Cockpit Review</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/watch-fsa-sl-k-carbon-cockpit-review/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>New Cranks and 35mm DH Bars from Truvativ</title> <link>https://www.singletracks.com/community/new-cranks-35mm-dh-bars-truvativ/</link> <comments>https://www.singletracks.com/community/new-cranks-35mm-dh-bars-truvativ/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Aaron Chamberlain]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 26 Jun 2017 14:46:45 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Community]]></category> <category><![CDATA[bars]]></category> <category><![CDATA[cranks]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Downhill]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Gear]]></category> <category><![CDATA[news]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Truvativ]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=218960</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Truvativ, one of the brands under the SRAM umbrella, recently launched a few new cranksets as well as a pair of DH-ready handlebars. Stylo The Stylo name has been in Truvativ’s line for years as their no-nonsense, workhorse XC/trail crankset. Truvativ is offering two versions of the refreshed Stylo: one in aluminum and one in carbon. …</p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/community/new-cranks-35mm-dh-bars-truvativ/">New Cranks and 35mm DH Bars from Truvativ</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p> <p><span class="st_caption_shortcode_fix"><figure class="wp-block-image"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-218981" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/T_Descendant_35mm_DH_CalebH_170531_AM_575_M-1200x800.jpg" alt="" width="1170" height="780" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/T_Descendant_35mm_DH_CalebH_170531_AM_575_M-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/T_Descendant_35mm_DH_CalebH_170531_AM_575_M-620x413.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/T_Descendant_35mm_DH_CalebH_170531_AM_575_M-768x512.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/T_Descendant_35mm_DH_CalebH_170531_AM_575_M-750x500.jpg 750w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /><figcaption>Photo courtesy SRAM</figcaption></figure></span></p> <p></p> <p>Truvativ, one of the brands under the SRAM umbrella, recently launched a few new cranksets as well as a pair of DH-ready handlebars.</p> <h1>Stylo</h1> <p>The Stylo name has been in Truvativ’s line for years as their no-nonsense, workhorse XC/trail crankset. Truvativ is offering two versions of the refreshed Stylo: one in aluminum and one in carbon. Both get direct mount chainrings with SRAM’S X-SYNC™ 2 tooth profile that will work with their 12-speed Eagle groups. Crank arms come in 170mm or 175mm lengths; spindles are either 24mm or 30mm; and Boost chainrings are available as an option.</p> <p><span class="st_caption_shortcode_fix"><figure class="wp-block-image"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-218972 size-large" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/FC-STYL-6K-A1_24mm_32t_Eagle_Ring_Black_Side_M-1200x480.jpg" alt="" width="1170" height="468" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/FC-STYL-6K-A1_24mm_32t_Eagle_Ring_Black_Side_M-1200x480.jpg 1200w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/FC-STYL-6K-A1_24mm_32t_Eagle_Ring_Black_Side_M-620x248.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/FC-STYL-6K-A1_24mm_32t_Eagle_Ring_Black_Side_M-768x307.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /><figcaption>New Truvativ Stylo aluminum crankset</figcaption></figure></span></p> <p>Weights for the aluminum Stylo crankset range from 622-657g, with a price between $100-$125.</p> <p><span class="st_caption_shortcode_fix"><figure class="wp-block-image"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-218976 size-large" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/FC-STYL-C-A1_30mm_32t_Eagle_Ring_Black_Side_M-1200x514.jpg" alt="" width="1170" height="501" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/FC-STYL-C-A1_30mm_32t_Eagle_Ring_Black_Side_M-1200x514.jpg 1200w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/FC-STYL-C-A1_30mm_32t_Eagle_Ring_Black_Side_M-620x266.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/FC-STYL-C-A1_30mm_32t_Eagle_Ring_Black_Side_M-768x329.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /><figcaption>And the carbon version of the Stylo</figcaption></figure></span></p> <p>The carbon Stylo cranks weigh between 568g and 600g, and retail between $225-$245.</p> <h1>Descendant</h1> <p>Truvativ’s Descendant cranks are aimed at burlier terrain, although the weights remain comparable to the Stylo offerings. Like the Stylo cranks, the Descendants get direct mount rings, with the revised tooth profile.</p> <p><span class="st_caption_shortcode_fix"><figure class="wp-block-image"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-218969 size-large" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/FC-DESC-6K-A1_24mm_32t_Black_Front_M-1200x562.jpg" alt="" width="1170" height="548" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/FC-DESC-6K-A1_24mm_32t_Black_Front_M-1200x562.jpg 1200w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/FC-DESC-6K-A1_24mm_32t_Black_Front_M-620x290.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/FC-DESC-6K-A1_24mm_32t_Black_Front_M-768x360.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /><figcaption>New alloy Truvativ Descendant cranks ($100-$125)</figcaption></figure></span></p> <p><span class="st_caption_shortcode_fix"><figure class="wp-block-image"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-218971 size-large" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/FC-DESC-C-A1_30mm_175mm_EagleRing_32t_Black_Front_M-1200x600.jpg" alt="" width="1170" height="585" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/FC-DESC-C-A1_30mm_175mm_EagleRing_32t_Black_Front_M-1200x600.jpg 1200w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/FC-DESC-C-A1_30mm_175mm_EagleRing_32t_Black_Front_M-620x310.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/FC-DESC-C-A1_30mm_175mm_EagleRing_32t_Black_Front_M-768x384.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /><figcaption>Descendant carbon cranks ($225-$245)</figcaption></figure></span></p> <p>To go along with the new cranks, Truvativ has also unveiled a new Descendant handlebar in either aluminum or carbon, as well as a matching direct mount stem. The big news here being a bump up to the 35mm clamp diameter from the long-standing 31.8. Both the carbon and aluminum versions of the bar feature similar geometry with an 800mm width, 5° of up sweep, and 9° of back sweep. The carbon bars have 20mm of rise, but the aluminum bars get 25mm. Weights for the carbon and alloy bars are 230g and 310g, respectively. Pricing is set at $70 for the alloy and $180 for the carbon.</p> <p><span class="st_caption_shortcode_fix"><figure class="wp-block-image"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-218977 size-large" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/HB-DESC-RCD5-A1_Front_M-1200x600.jpg" alt="" width="1170" height="585" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/HB-DESC-RCD5-A1_Front_M-1200x600.jpg 1200w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/HB-DESC-RCD5-A1_Front_M-620x310.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/HB-DESC-RCD5-A1_Front_M-768x384.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /><figcaption>The Descendant 35mm DH bar in carbon</figcaption></figure></span></p> <p><span class="st_caption_shortcode_fix"><figure class="wp-block-image"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-218982" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/T_Descendant_35mm_DH_CalebH_170531_AM_578_M-1200x800.jpg" alt="" width="1170" height="780" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/T_Descendant_35mm_DH_CalebH_170531_AM_578_M-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/T_Descendant_35mm_DH_CalebH_170531_AM_578_M-620x413.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/T_Descendant_35mm_DH_CalebH_170531_AM_578_M-768x512.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/T_Descendant_35mm_DH_CalebH_170531_AM_578_M-750x500.jpg 750w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /><figcaption>35mm Descendant bars and direct mount stem (photo: SRAM)</figcaption></figure></span></p> <p>The direct mount stem comes in a 50mm length with no rise. Claimed weight is 155g, and the price is $75.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-218979" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/ST-DESC-DM5-B1_Black_3Q_M-1200x1200.jpg" alt="" width="1170" height="1170" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/ST-DESC-DM5-B1_Black_3Q_M-1200x1200.jpg 1200w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/ST-DESC-DM5-B1_Black_3Q_M-150x150.jpg 150w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/ST-DESC-DM5-B1_Black_3Q_M-620x620.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/ST-DESC-DM5-B1_Black_3Q_M-768x768.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/ST-DESC-DM5-B1_Black_3Q_M.jpg 2000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /></p> <p>All of Truvativ’s new offerings will be available in shops starting in July.</p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/community/new-cranks-35mm-dh-bars-truvativ/">New Cranks and 35mm DH Bars from Truvativ</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.singletracks.com/community/new-cranks-35mm-dh-bars-truvativ/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Kind Shock: KS Lev With New Travel Option + New Bars & Stems</title> <link>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/kind-shock-ks-lev-with-new-travel-option-new-bars-stems/</link> <comments>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/kind-shock-ks-lev-with-new-travel-option-new-bars-stems/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Jeff Barber]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 19 Sep 2014 12:05:25 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Gear]]></category> <category><![CDATA[bars]]></category> <category><![CDATA[dropper post]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Interbike 2014]]></category> <category><![CDATA[kind shock]]></category> <category><![CDATA[ks]]></category> <category><![CDATA[ks lev]]></category> <category><![CDATA[stems]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=50289</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>In the recent Singletracks gear survey the KS Lev was voted the #2 dropper seat post, which is remarkable given that companies like Specialized and Fox compete in the same category. Not content to rest on the runaway success of the Lev, Kind Shock (aka KS) showed a ton of new and updated gear at …</p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/kind-shock-ks-lev-with-new-travel-option-new-bars-stems/">Kind Shock: KS Lev With New Travel Option + New Bars & Stems</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/kind_shock2.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-50307" alt="kind_shock2" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/kind_shock2.jpg" width="413" height="620" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/kind_shock2.jpg 413w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/kind_shock2-199x300.jpg 199w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/kind_shock2-266x400.jpg 266w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 413px) 100vw, 413px" /></a></p> <p>In the recent Singletracks gear survey the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Seatposts/Kind-Shock-LEV_6865">KS Lev</a> was voted the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mountain-bike/reviews/best.php">#2 dropper seat post</a>, which is remarkable given that companies like Specialized and Fox compete in the same category. Not content to rest on the runaway success of the Lev, Kind Shock (aka KS) showed a ton of new and updated gear at Interbike last week.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/kind_shock1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-50308" alt="kind_shock1" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/kind_shock1.jpg" width="413" height="620" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/kind_shock1.jpg 413w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/kind_shock1-199x300.jpg 199w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/kind_shock1-266x400.jpg 266w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 413px) 100vw, 413px" /></a></p> <p>The Lev is already offered in multiple seatpost diameters (30.9, 31.6, and 34.9mm) and travel lengths (100, 125, and 150mm) and this year the company is rolling out a new 65mm travel length version. Why only 65mm? It turns out even cyclocross and road riders are starting to understand the advantages of dropping their seats down on descents.</p> <p>But this is a mountain bike website, so who cares? The KS rep I spoke with at Interbike said they’re also seeing interest in this short travel dropper post from enduro riders who are looking to save weight and are only slightly concerned about their pedaling efficiency on the climbs. With a short travel dropper you can set the post for descending, then pop it <em>up</em> to stretch your legs a bit on the climbs. Man, enduro riders seem to be willing to try anything to get faster on the descents, climbing be damned!</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/kind_shock5.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-50306" alt="kind_shock5" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/kind_shock5.jpg" width="413" height="620" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/kind_shock5.jpg 413w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/kind_shock5-199x300.jpg 199w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/kind_shock5-266x400.jpg 266w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 413px) 100vw, 413px" /></a></p> <p>KS also makes a value-priced dropper post called the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Seatposts/Kind-Shock-ETen_7504">eTen</a> that features an air spring and 100mm of travel. It’s offered with lever or remote activation and comes in 27.2, 30.9, and 31.6mm diameters.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/kind_shock6.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-50301" alt="kind_shock6" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/kind_shock6.jpg" width="620" height="413" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/kind_shock6.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/kind_shock6-300x199.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/kind_shock6-600x400.jpg 600w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/kind_shock6-450x300.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" /></a></p> <p>KS offers several seatpost remote options and my favorite has to be the shifter lever style. Many of us are running single ring drivetrains which frees up space (and our thumbs) on the left handlebar. With remotes for shocks and gadgets like GPS and lights crowding our bars, it’s nice to see options for decluttering. Plus, thumb-actuated levers are much easier to use without taking your grip off the bars!</p> <p><strong>Bars and stems</strong></p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/kind_shock7.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-50302" alt="kind_shock7" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/kind_shock7.jpg" width="620" height="413" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/kind_shock7.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/kind_shock7-300x199.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/kind_shock7-600x400.jpg 600w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/kind_shock7-450x300.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" /></a></p> <p>Customizing mountain bike fit involves not just seatposts but also bars and stems, so KS is working to offer riders a complete package for dialing their rigs. The new <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Stems/Kind-Shock-Ether-Stem_11270">Ether stem</a> utilizes a unique and sexy-looking clasping mechanism that’s off-center and close to the front of the stem for improved strength. Even the titanium bolts are specially manufactured for the closure, resulting in a smooth, tight fit.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/kind_shock8.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-50300" alt="kind_shock8" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/kind_shock8.jpg" width="620" height="413" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/kind_shock8.jpg 620w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/kind_shock8-300x199.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/kind_shock8-600x400.jpg 600w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/kind_shock8-450x300.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" /></a></p> <p>The <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Handlebars/Kind-Shock-Ether-Bars_11269">Ether flat bar</a> is a 720mm carbon bar with 0° rise and 9° sweep and weighs 197g. This bar should be perfect for XC/trail riders, while more aggressive AM riders will appreciate the Ether rise bar. The rise is also carbon, but ships at 780mm with 20° rise and the same 9° sweep. This bar weighs only slightly more than its shorter cousin at 207g.</p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/kind-shock-ks-lev-with-new-travel-option-new-bars-stems/">Kind Shock: KS Lev With New Travel Option + New Bars & Stems</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/kind-shock-ks-lev-with-new-travel-option-new-bars-stems/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>1</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>News: Thomson Droppers, Stems and More Closer to Reality</title> <link>https://www.singletracks.com/uncategorized/news-thomson-droppers-stems-and-more-closer-to-reality/</link> <comments>https://www.singletracks.com/uncategorized/news-thomson-droppers-stems-and-more-closer-to-reality/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Ben Drawbaugh]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 08 Nov 2013 17:45:41 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Culture]]></category> <category><![CDATA[bars]]></category> <category><![CDATA[dropper post]]></category> <category><![CDATA[dropper posts]]></category> <category><![CDATA[news]]></category> <category><![CDATA[stem]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Thomson]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=36784</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Progress continues in the R&D department of Thomson, as the internally-routed dropper seat post, new stems, and more are closer to market. The Covert dropper we saw at Interbike should be here next Spring — assuming version two of the actuator, that is to be tested next week, isn’t followed up by a version three. A dropper for …</p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/uncategorized/news-thomson-droppers-stems-and-more-closer-to-reality/">News: Thomson Droppers, Stems and More Closer to Reality</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/2013-09-19-13.25.55-e1383928132946.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-36786" title="2013-09-19-13.25.55" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/2013-09-19-13.25.55-e1383928132946.jpg" alt="" width="620" height="465" /></a></p> <div>Progress continues in the R&D department of <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/tag/thomson/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Thomson</a>, as the internally-routed dropper seat post, new stems, and more are closer to market. The <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/mtb-gear/interbike-2013-thomson/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Covert dropper we saw at Interbike</a> should be here next Spring — assuming version two of the actuator, that is to be tested next week, isn’t followed up by a version three. A dropper for bikes with 27.2 seatposts will follow in May or June, after it’s put through the paces in the lab next month. In the meantime, there are a number of new variations in Thomson <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/tag/stems/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">stems</a> that’ll be available before the end of the year, including a 30 degree rise x 50mm direct mount in three weeks, and three new X4 stems next month: 0 x 60, 10 x 70 and 10 x 80mm. Finally, the aluminum version of Thomson’s trail handlebar is still on schedule to eek out before the end of the year. Much of this won’t be available in time for Christmas, but lets be honest, you never get bike stuff for Christmas… that you actually want, anyways.</div> <div></div> <div><a href="http://bikethomson.com/new-product-updates/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Read</a></div> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/uncategorized/news-thomson-droppers-stems-and-more-closer-to-reality/">News: Thomson Droppers, Stems and More Closer to Reality</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.singletracks.com/uncategorized/news-thomson-droppers-stems-and-more-closer-to-reality/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Review: Truvativ Blackbox Athlete-Series Handlebars</title> <link>https://www.singletracks.com/community/review-truvativ-blackbox-athlete-series-handlebars/</link> <comments>https://www.singletracks.com/community/review-truvativ-blackbox-athlete-series-handlebars/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Syd Patricio]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 10 Oct 2013 16:45:08 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Community]]></category> <category><![CDATA[bars]]></category> <category><![CDATA[BooBar]]></category> <category><![CDATA[carbon]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Danny Hart]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Downhill]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Jerome Clementz]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Mountain Bike Athletes]]></category> <category><![CDATA[review]]></category> <category><![CDATA[reviews]]></category> <category><![CDATA[sram]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Stevie Smith]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=33578</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Did you ever want to ride like a pro, using their own gear? In hockey, it happens all the time: you can purchase a player’s own branded stick with his own personal preferences. SRAM’s custom approach to bike components started 20 years ago with the Blackbox Program and the BoXXer forks, as they tuned and …</p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/community/review-truvativ-blackbox-athlete-series-handlebars/">Review: Truvativ Blackbox Athlete-Series Handlebars</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_9016as.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-33652" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_9016as.jpg" alt="" width="590" height="355" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_9016as.jpg 590w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_9016as-300x180.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_9016as-500x300.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 590px) 100vw, 590px" /></a></p> <p>Did you ever want to ride like a pro, using their own gear? In hockey, it happens all the time: you can purchase a player’s own branded stick with his own personal preferences.</p> <p>SRAM’s custom approach to bike components started 20 years ago with the Blackbox Program and the BoXXer forks, as they tuned and built custom components for their top riders. From that point on, the custom tuning expanded to brakes and other components. Now you can purchase from Truvativ the same Blackbox parts that they produced for select signature riders. The bar series features <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Handlebars/Truvativ-Danny-Hart-Blackbox-Bar_7582">Danny Hart</a>, <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Handlebars/Truvativ-Stevie-Smith-BlackBox-Bar_7583">Stevie Smith</a>, and <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Handlebars/Truvativ-Jerome-Clementz-BlackBox-Bar_7584">Jerome Clementz</a>–all top riders, and all with different needs.</p> <p>The folks at Truvativ sent all three of these bars down for review. Of the three, I used a <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/downhill/final-review-norco-aurum-1-dorado/">Norco Aurum Dorado</a> for the DH bars and my <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Full-suspension-bikes/Santa-Cruz-Nomad_91">Santa Cruz Nomad</a> for the carbon Jerome Clementz bar.</p> <p>Here’s a little information about each of these riders, to help you get a feel for why each individual bar was designed the way it was:</p> <p><strong>Danny Hart</strong></p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_8541as1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-33651" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_8541as1.jpg" alt="" width="590" height="241" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_8541as1.jpg 590w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_8541as1-300x122.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_8541as1-500x204.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 590px) 100vw, 590px" /></a></p> <p>Danny Hart rides fast and loose. According to Truvativ, “in the past, Danny used a 5mm space under his direct mount stem combined with a 20mm rise BooBar to lift him to the exact height he wanted, but that setup wasn’t seamless.” The new bar “delivers the 25mm rise that he needs-with no spacers and less weight. We also added two more degrees of back sweep for a total 9 degrees, which moves his weight back, putting more pressure on the rear wheel,” said Truvativ.</p> <p>Specs:</p> <ul> <li>7050 Al Alloy</li> <li>780mm wide</li> <li>25mm rise</li> <li>5 degree up-sweep</li> <li>9 degree back-sweep</li> <li>340g</li> </ul> <div><strong>Stevie Smith</strong></div> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_8492as1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-33650" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_8492as1.jpg" alt="" width="590" height="197" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_8492as1.jpg 590w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_8492as1-300x100.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_8492as1-500x166.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 590px) 100vw, 590px" /></a></p> <p>Stevie Smith rides gnarly terrain extremely fast. According to Truvativ, “we teamed up with Stevie to create a bar that is high and out in front, giving him ultimate control. His signature 780mm DH bar features a 30mm rise, keeping his hands forward, his head up, and his eyes focused.”</p> <p>Specs</p> <ul> <li>7050 Al Alloy</li> <li>780mm wide</li> <li>30mm rise</li> <li>5 degree up-sweep</li> <li>7 degree back-sweep</li> <li>340g</li> </ul> <div><strong>Jerome Clementz</strong></div> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_9066as.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-33653" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_9066as.jpg" alt="" width="590" height="244" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_9066as.jpg 590w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_9066as-300x124.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_9066as-500x206.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 590px) 100vw, 590px" /></a></p> <p>Jerome Clementz is an “all-mountain legend” who makes his living by shredding as fast as possible. According to Truvativ, “Jerome asked us for wider, stiffer, lighter bar that gives him ultimate control without sacrificing the toughness he needs for powerful sprints and descents.” The 750mm Blackbox bar is the result, featuring “5 degrees of up sweep and 7 degrees of back sweep, this signature bar keeps your bike light and strong so that you can rail every turn with precision.”</p> <ul> <li>Carbon Fiber</li> <li>750mm wide</li> <li>20mm rise</li> <li>5 degree up-sweep</li> <li>7 degree back-sweep</li> <li>240g</li> </ul> <div><strong>Out on the Trail</strong></div> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_8543as.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-33654" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_8543as.jpg" alt="" width="590" height="364" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_8543as.jpg 590w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_8543as-300x185.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_8543as-486x300.jpg 486w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 590px) 100vw, 590px" /></a></p> <p>It took some time to thoroughly test these bars. I swapped things out, reflected on how they felt to me, swapped them out again, and did even more comparison. I also sought second opinions from a few other friends that I trust, and we discussed our thoughts about what type of ride each bar suits best.</p> <p>Then, we installed the bars on a second bike, and went through the same process all over again. Yeah, it was time consuming to say the least, but in the end I think I was able to truly get the feel for how each individual bar performed.</p> <p>Of the two DH bars, I personally found that although they are aluminum, they felt great, and were almost as good at absorbing the sting off of bumps as the carbon bar.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_8431ss.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-33655" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_8431ss.jpg" alt="" width="590" height="329" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_8431ss.jpg 590w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_8431ss-300x167.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_8431ss-500x278.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 590px) 100vw, 590px" /></a></p> <p>Both DH bars were the same in that respect. However, I personally loved the Danny Hart bar. I found that the 9° back sweep combined with the 25mm rise felt great on the Aurum.</p> <p>Comparatively, I found that the Smith was too up and forward. However, my buddy Darren, who is great at bike control, loved the Stevie Smith DH bar compared to the Hart. He preferred the heads-up centered feeling that the Stevie gave him.</p> <p>Switching gears to carbon, the Jerome carbon bar felt quite different from the other two. Carbon has a distinct advantage since it’s a totally-engineered item. The lay up of the layers and choices of carbon all go into the different feel of the bar. I personally liked the feel and control it provided, and found it did very well on my trail bike.</p> <p>Using the bar on some seriously tight, rocky terrain at 3-stages, I was happy to find that the Jerome bar did very well at dampening the impacts. Control was no issue, as I could easily muscle my way around things. But if you’re in a situation where you find yourself riding old school singletrack, you just may find that you’re clipping one too many trees. The 750mm width, although I love it and feel perfectly comfortable riding with it, does tend to hit a trunk or two when things get really tight. The 3-stages trail was cut when bars were only 635mm wide.</p> <p>MSRP on the Stevie Smith and Danny Hart are $83 (US), and $198 (US) for the Jerome Clementz bar.</p> <p><em>Thanks to the folks at <a href="http://www.sram.com/">SRAM</a> for providing the bars for review. Stay tuned for more reviews from SRAM!</em></p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/community/review-truvativ-blackbox-athlete-series-handlebars/">Review: Truvativ Blackbox Athlete-Series Handlebars</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.singletracks.com/community/review-truvativ-blackbox-athlete-series-handlebars/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>1</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>RaceFace at Interbike: New Cranks, Pedals, and Wheels</title> <link>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/raceface-at-interbike-new-cranks-pedals-and-wheels/</link> <comments>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/raceface-at-interbike-new-cranks-pedals-and-wheels/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Syd Patricio]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 27 Sep 2013 13:38:01 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Gear]]></category> <category><![CDATA[alloy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[bars]]></category> <category><![CDATA[carbon]]></category> <category><![CDATA[interbike]]></category> <category><![CDATA[RaceFace]]></category> <category><![CDATA[wheels]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=34938</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Coming out strong this year with a bunch of new gear is RaceFace. When I first swung by the RaceFace booth at Interbike to chat with Rob, all the products weren’t on display yet–unfortunately a bunch of gear got held up in customs. No customs agents, you cannot have the samples. Well, the biggest deal …</p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/raceface-at-interbike-new-cranks-pedals-and-wheels/">RaceFace at Interbike: New Cranks, Pedals, and Wheels</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/IMG_9905a.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-34941" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/IMG_9905a.jpg" alt="" width="590" height="406" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/IMG_9905a.jpg 590w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/IMG_9905a-300x206.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/IMG_9905a-581x400.jpg 581w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/IMG_9905a-435x300.jpg 435w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 590px) 100vw, 590px" /></a></p> <p>Coming out strong this year with a bunch of new gear is RaceFace. When I first swung by the RaceFace booth at Interbike to chat with Rob, all the products weren’t on display yet–unfortunately a bunch of gear got held up in customs. No customs agents, you cannot have the samples.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/IMG_9905aa.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-34942" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/IMG_9905aa.jpg" alt="" width="590" height="365" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/IMG_9905aa.jpg 590w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/IMG_9905aa-300x185.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/IMG_9905aa-484x300.jpg 484w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 590px) 100vw, 590px" /></a></p> <p>Well, the biggest deal for me was the new Next SL crankset–probably one of the sexiest spinners I’ve seen. These cranks are just naked carbon with a cool new flange system that easily allows retailers or individuals to change from a single ring, dual ring, or three ring setup without special tools or a lot of hassle. And get this: a 175mm crank arm length with a single ring setup (28T) weighs only 425g. The bottom bracket weighs another 85 for a combined weight of … carry the one, subtract two … 510g ( a Sram XX1 comes in at 650g). That is a fair amount of weight savings there–almost a quarter pound off the total weight of your bike.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/IMG_0067a.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-34945" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/IMG_0067a.jpg" alt="" width="590" height="393" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/IMG_0067a.jpg 590w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/IMG_0067a-300x199.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/IMG_0067a-450x300.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 590px) 100vw, 590px" /></a></p> <p>The fun doesn’t stop there. Raceface has pedals! Yes, finally! I cannot tell you how long I have been waiting for pedals from Raceface. And not only one pedal, but two. So you can go big and grab a set of Atlas pedals machined from 6061-T6 aluminum or you can get get the otherwise more affordable Affect pedal. Same material, just not as machined and trimmed down. Both pedals use 10 pins per side.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/IMG_9899a.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-34939" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/IMG_9899a.jpg" alt="" width="590" height="357" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/IMG_9899a.jpg 590w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/IMG_9899a-300x181.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/IMG_9899a-495x300.jpg 495w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 590px) 100vw, 590px" /></a></p> <p>Check out the pic above, ehh (that’s Canadian for you). That in fact is Raceface’s 35mm direct mount Atlas Stem and bar. The DM 35 stem is available in black only, comes in a 50mm reach only, and is height adjustable with Raceface’s own 5mm spacers. The DM is a two piece design that uses only a single clamp bolt per side. That keeps the stem down to a nice 120g. The Atlas 35 bar comes in rises of 10mm, 20mm, and 35mm.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/IMG_9901a.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-34940" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/IMG_9901a.jpg" alt="" width="590" height="249" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/IMG_9901a.jpg 590w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/IMG_9901a-300x126.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/IMG_9901a-500x211.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 590px) 100vw, 590px" /></a></p> <p>With a wide variety of bar colors you’re ready to go. NEXT SL bars in 35mm are also available. These are super light and are offered in several choices of rise as well. These come in 760mm bar widths and only weigh 180g.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/IMG_9902a.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-34998" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/IMG_9902a.jpg" alt="" width="590" height="232" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/IMG_9902a.jpg 590w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/IMG_9902a-300x117.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/IMG_9902a-500x196.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 590px) 100vw, 590px" /></a></p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/rf1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-34994" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/rf1-590x355.jpg" alt="" width="584" height="351" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/rf1-590x355.jpg 590w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/rf1-300x180.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/rf1-497x300.jpg 497w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/rf1.jpg 599w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px" /></a></p> <p>Unfortunately my shots of the wheels didn’t turn out but I had to show the wheel here. Above and below are shots of the new wheel from Raceface. Made from 6061 alloy these tubeless compatible 28-hole rims use brass nipples and straight pull spokes. The rim measures: height – 19.5mm, outer diameter – 25mm, inner diameter – 21mm, and is equipped with a 3-cam pawl cassette body. The hub features custom sealed cartridge bearings (F+R) and come spaced at 15x100mm (front) and 12x142mm (rear).</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/rf2.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-34995" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/rf2.jpg" alt="" width="578" height="432" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/rf2.jpg 578w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/rf2-300x224.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/rf2-535x400.jpg 535w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/rf2-401x300.jpg 401w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 578px) 100vw, 578px" /></a></p> <p>INCLUDED: Rim strip, end caps for QR 5mm (F+R), plus end caps for 10x135mm and 12×135 rear spacing. With a tubeless conversion kit (sold separately), these may just be something that your XC or trail bike will love.</p> <p>RaceFace is really extending their approach to high quality and lightweight components this year and we can’t wait to see where they go next.</p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/raceface-at-interbike-new-cranks-pedals-and-wheels/">RaceFace at Interbike: New Cranks, Pedals, and Wheels</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/raceface-at-interbike-new-cranks-pedals-and-wheels/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>3</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Review: Thomson Downhill Handlebar</title> <link>https://www.singletracks.com/community/review-thomson-downhill-handlebar/</link> <comments>https://www.singletracks.com/community/review-thomson-downhill-handlebar/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Greg Heil]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 28 Jun 2013 12:00:39 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Community]]></category> <category><![CDATA[bar]]></category> <category><![CDATA[bars]]></category> <category><![CDATA[DH]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Downhill]]></category> <category><![CDATA[review]]></category> <category><![CDATA[reviews]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Thomson]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=31979</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Thomson released several new handlebar models in 2012, including an aluminum downhill bar. While Thomson’s new carbon bars are making some serious waves, they are not currently producing any carbon DH bars. When asked if they will produce a carbon bar in the future, Thomson responded: We could and we may, but downhill riding and …</p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/community/review-thomson-downhill-handlebar/">Review: Thomson Downhill Handlebar</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/mtb-gear/factory-tour-thomson/">Thomson</a> released several <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/mtb-gear/thomson-bars-dropper-seatpost-and-more/">new handlebar models in 2012</a>, including an aluminum downhill bar. While Thomson’s new carbon bars are making some serious waves, they are not currently producing any carbon DH bars. When asked if they will produce a carbon bar in the future, <a href="http://bikethomson.com/handlebars/downhill/">Thomson responded</a>:</p> <blockquote><p>We could and we may, but downhill riding and racing involves the potential for fairly frequent, big crashes. Every time you crash on a carbon bar you may damage it, but you may not know. An aluminum bar will bend when it has been taken beyond safe limits. A bent bar should be retired.</p></blockquote> <p>So for now, Thomson is sticking to aluminum for the downhill market. But what a beauty of a bar it is!</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/instagram-e1371568017178.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-31998" title="instagram" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/instagram-e1371568017178.jpg" alt="" width="595" height="595" /></a></p> <h4><strong>Specs</strong></h4> <p><a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Handlebars/Thomson-Downhill_7337">Thomson’s Downhill bar</a> measures in at 780mm wide with a 31.8mm clamping surface, 12mm of rise, 6 degrees of backsweep, 4 degrees of upsweep, and all of that in a 295-gram package. This reasonable weight is thanks in part to the lightweight 7050 aluminum, which also provides superior strength and long life.</p> <p>The bar is designed to mesh perfectly with Thomson’s own Elite X4 Stem or Direct Mount Stem, but it will play well with other stem combinations (as my test can verify).</p> <p>As far as construction, according to Thomson:</p> <blockquote><p>Bar is produced by advanced CNC bending to avoid the need for hand grinding. Almost all other bars are manually bent and bends are ground to appear smooth. CNC bending ensures very consistent wall thickness and close tolerances, especially in tapered sections. This keeps weight low and fatigue life high.</p></blockquote> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/downhill-e1371568132873.jpeg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-32000" title="downhill" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/downhill-e1371568132873.jpeg" alt="" width="595" height="224" /></a></p> <h4><strong>Out on the Trail</strong></h4> <p>Since I tend to pedal and push to the top of my descents, I threw the DH bar on my AM trail bike. Generally, whenever I hop on <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/my-bike/13">this bike</a>, I’m going to be thrashing some nasty trails!</p> <p>This test was no different. I had the opportunity to shred some gnarly backcountry trails in Pisgah National Forest over Memorial Day weekend, including the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-trails/avery-creek---327.html">Avery Creek trail</a> and <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-trails/pilot-cove-slate-rocks.html">Pilot Cove</a>, among others.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/2013-05-25-14.37.01-e1371568113377.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-31999" title="2013-05-25 14.37.01" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/2013-05-25-14.37.01-e1371568113377.jpg" alt="" width="595" height="446" /></a></p> <p>The Thomson DH bar performed flawlessly over the course of my entire test. Steering was crisp and precise, and I didn’t have to worry about any undue flex whatsoever.</p> <p>The sweep and rise were comfortable, yet aggressive. I really appreciate the mild rise that the Thompson bar features. I feel like this low rise gives the bar a more natural ride quality than a bar with a sharper, higher rise. Consequently, the bar didn’t feel too relaxed, so I was able to set up turns without any front-end hesitation and plow off drops without a second thought.</p> <p>Finally, the 780mm width is pretty much perfect for my shoulder width in this ride application. I’ve ridden several 800mm bars before, and while I’ve loved them, I do realize that for this application and me personally, that might be a hair too much width. Still, I’m a little surprised that the Thomson doesn’t come in a full 800mm length. Many full-fledged DH riders prefer as wide of a bar as they can get, and if they don’t want a full 800mm, cutting a metal bar down to size is a pretty easy operation.</p> <h4><strong>Bottom Line</strong></h4> <p>If you’re looking for as wide of a bar as you can find, look elsewhere. But if you’re looking for a bar that sports Thomson’s fabled construction quality, comfortable-yet-aggressive sweep and rise, and bomber performance, then consider the Thomson Downhill Bar.</p> <p>MSRP: $109.95</p> <p><em>Many thanks to <a href="http://bikethomson.com/">Thomson</a> for providing their Downhill bar for review.</em></p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/community/review-thomson-downhill-handlebar/">Review: Thomson Downhill Handlebar</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.singletracks.com/community/review-thomson-downhill-handlebar/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>RaceFace Atlas Cockpit Review: Bar, Stem, and Grips</title> <link>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/raceface-atlas-cockpit-review-bar-stem-and-grips/</link> <comments>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/raceface-atlas-cockpit-review-bar-stem-and-grips/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Syd Patricio]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Jan 2013 15:42:21 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Gear]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Atlas]]></category> <category><![CDATA[bars]]></category> <category><![CDATA[direct mount]]></category> <category><![CDATA[grips]]></category> <category><![CDATA[stems]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=27505</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Not too long ago some internal problems at RaceFace nearly caused them to go broke. Well, with new managers at the controls and an ever-loyal following, RaceFace is running strong yet again. For me that was awesome news, as I have been using Raceface products ever since they opened shop. The Atlas group is their …</p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/raceface-atlas-cockpit-review-bar-stem-and-grips/">RaceFace Atlas Cockpit Review: Bar, Stem, and Grips</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_5587a.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-27631" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_5587a-590x268.jpg" alt="" width="584" height="265" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_5587a-590x268.jpg 590w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_5587a-300x136.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_5587a-500x227.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px" /></a></p> <p>Not too long ago some internal problems at RaceFace nearly caused them to go broke. Well, with new managers at the controls and an ever-loyal following, RaceFace is running strong yet again. For me that was awesome news, as I have been using Raceface products ever since they opened shop. The Atlas group is their answer for any enduro or gravity rider.</p> <h2>Atlas Handlebar</h2> <p>The Atlas bar comes in a variety of colors and flavors for just about everyone’s personal taste. A flat bar, a ½” rise, and a 1 ¼” rise are all available in a variety of colors. I decided on a minimal rise of ½” for my review. At 785mm in width, the Atlas is just shy of the widest bar I have used. At 340 grams, I’d consider it to be about mid-weight, as the growing carbon market is pushing wide bars down to the mid-200s (grams). The bend is a familiar 8° back sweep, 4° up sweep, which puts your wrists in a comfortable position. The bar is internally tapered for a combination of strength, flexibility and low weight.</p> <h2>Atlas DM Stem</h2> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_5584a.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-27633" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_5584a-590x338.jpg" alt="" width="584" height="334" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_5584a-590x338.jpg 590w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_5584a-300x172.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_5584a-500x286.jpg 500w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_5584a.jpg 1200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px" /></a></p> <p>The Atlas DM stem is an excellent example of a dual-purpose stem. You can run the Atlas DM in a 50mm low rise (8.5mm ) setting, or a 30mm high rise setting (24mm). Flawlessly machined from 6061 aluminum, this 4-bolt clamp BoXXer-mount stem has been machined down to a scant 162 grams (including the hardware). The U-shaped clamp cap is a neat feature that interlocks itself nicely to the stem allowing for an even distribution of force from the bar to the stem (and not the bolts).</p> <p>The Atlas DM (like the bar) comes in several colors: Rumred, Badass Black, Blue, White, and Stealth. This time ’round I decided to stick with black for the gear on my V10, rather than colors.</p> <h2>Half Nelson Grips</h2> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_5576as.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-27634" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_5576as-590x288.jpg" alt="" width="584" height="285" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_5576as-590x288.jpg 590w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_5576as-300x146.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_5576as-500x244.jpg 500w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_5576as.jpg 1200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px" /></a></p> <p>To finish off the controls I installed the Half Nelson grips. My main reason for the grip choice was the thinner-than-normal diameter and single-clamp design. Made from RaceFace’s own super tacky, durable rubber compound, the pattern is a cool topo map, which doubles as a path to drain away moisture. Coming in at just 92.5 grams a set, these are silly light. Available in all the colors of the rainbow, these are guaranteed to match your bike.</p> <h2>Installation</h2> <p>A bar swap only takes about 20 minutes, and minimal tools are required (2.5, 4, and 5 mm hex keys, and maybe a T25). I wanted a lower bar, so I installed the stem on my fork in the 50mm position by evenly torquing down the 4 bolts to 9.5 Nm. Once that was done, the bar was next.</p> <p>Setting the bar evenly with the clearly anodized marks, I loosely tightened the bolts down so I could adjust the bar once in place. I tend to sit on my bike in riding position and roll the bar into place. Once I got it in place, I torqued down the face plate. I followed the supplied directions and wedged up one side of the face plate so that the faceplate met with the stem. I then torqued the remaining bolts. After that, grips, brakes, and shifters all had to be re-installed.</p> <h2>Out on the Trail</h2> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_5478as1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-27632" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_5478as1-590x389.jpg" alt="" width="584" height="385" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_5478as1-590x389.jpg 590w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_5478as1-300x198.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_5478as1-453x300.jpg 453w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_5478as1.jpg 1200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px" /></a></p> <p>You know a part is working well when it doesn’t call attention to itself. Well, once the Atlas parts were installed, they kept their heads down and just did their jobs. Riding DH through the rocks and jumps of Dagmar, I had no issues whatsoever regarding the bar or stem.</p> <p>The stem didn’t ping or budge one bit. You would think the 785 mm wide bar would be an issue when weaving through the slopes, but that wasn’t the case. I must admit, I did clip a tree once, though fortunately it didn’t knock me down (I lost a bit of flesh off one of my fingers and took a fist-sized chunk out of a tree). Ultimately the wide bar gave me added leverage, preventing me from eating it by doing a bar spin.</p> <p>That leads to my next point of interest: I was amazed that, as an alloy bar, vibration absorption was great. I won’t lie–I love carbon due to the fact that it provides the highest vibration absorption possible, but the Atlas did a mighty good job at it as well. It wasn’t quite as good as carbon, but functioned pretty well nevertheless. Rock gardens were not an issue, and going off big jumps wasn’t a problem. Again, landing didn’t call any attention to my wrists, which would suffer if the bar was too stiff.</p> <p>The Half Nelson grips did a bang-up job at providing gobs of grip in a thin package. I personally love thin-diameter grips, and these are the thinnest that I’ve used to date. Surprisingly the single-clamp design didn’t rotate on me (and I was expecting that to be the case), so kudos for that not happening. With or without gloves, the grips just feel right and may very well become my go-to grip in the future.</p> <p>So what are you expected to pay for these components? Well, MSRP’s are:</p> <p><a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Stems/Race-Face-Atlas-FR-Direct-Mount_2868">Atlas Direct Mount Stem</a>– $94.99 USD<br /> <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Handlebars/Race-Face-Atlas-1-2-Rise_6672"> Atlas Handlebar</a> – $79.99 USD<br /> <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Grips/Race-Face-Half-Nelson_6975"> Half Nelson grips</a> – $23.99 USD</p> <p>Now those are all MSRP’s, but seeing that JensonUSA sells all of them, I have seen pricing that is very competitive.</p> <p><em>A big thanks to the folks at <a href="http://raceface.com/">RaceFace</a> for sending down the gear for review. Next up… Atlas Crank review!</em></p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/raceface-atlas-cockpit-review-bar-stem-and-grips/">RaceFace Atlas Cockpit Review: Bar, Stem, and Grips</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/raceface-atlas-cockpit-review-bar-stem-and-grips/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>6</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Review: Titanium Handlebar by Thomson</title> <link>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/review-titanium-handlebar-by-thomson/</link> <comments>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/review-titanium-handlebar-by-thomson/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dustin Gaddis]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 26 Dec 2012 11:32:41 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Gear]]></category> <category><![CDATA[bars]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Thomson]]></category> <category><![CDATA[titanium]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=27699</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>L.H. Thomson has two sides of their business: contract manufacturing, mostly for the aerospace industry, and producing their own line of cycling components. In the cycling world they are well known for their beautifully machined aluminum stems, seat posts, and seat post collars. Thanks to the top notch quality, riders have long been asking for …</p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/review-titanium-handlebar-by-thomson/">Review: Titanium Handlebar by Thomson</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.bikethomson.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">L.H. Thomson</a> has two sides of their business: contract manufacturing, mostly for the aerospace industry, and producing their own line of cycling components. In the cycling world they are well known for their beautifully machined aluminum stems, seat posts, and seat post collars. Thanks to the top notch quality, riders have long been asking for more Thomson products, and during my <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/mtb-gear/factory-tour-thomson/">plant tour way back in April of 2011</a> I was told they were working on some handlebars – titanium handlebars. They even told me I could get a set to review once they were ready and I was stoked!</p> <p>Fast forward 18 months and the bars finally arrived on my doorstep. Why did it take so long? Because Thomson doesn’t put stuff out into the market until they are 100% certain it is ready for prime time. But, not only did they introduce a titanium flat bar, but they also introduced a carbon flat bar, a carbon riser bar, an aluminum DH bar, a carbon CX bar, and a carbon road bar. Some of the other Singletracks bloggers are reviewing the other bars, so keep an eye out for those reviews soon.</p> <p><span class="st_caption_shortcode_fix"><figure class="wp-block-image"><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/photo-3.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-28192" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/photo-3-533x400.jpg" alt="" width="533" height="400" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/photo-3-533x400.jpg 533w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/photo-3-300x225.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/photo-3-400x300.jpg 400w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/photo-3.jpg 640w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 533px) 100vw, 533px" /></a><figcaption>The raw finish goes perfectly with silver Thomson stems and seat posts.</figcaption></figure></span></p> <h2>A Departure</h2> <p>All the new handlebars mark a departure for Thomson. Previously all of the company’s parts were made in the USA, however, the handlebars required work with overseas manufacturers, for several reasons. The titanium and aluminum bars require some specialized, and expensive, machinery which the company doesn’t have. They also require heat treating, which needs another expensive piece of equipment, and would need a separate building to house it if Thomson did it themselves (they couldn’t put it in their existing building because it’s climate controlled to maintain precision on the aerospace components they produce).</p> <p>With the carbon bars there were several additional hurdles to producing in-house. Thomson didn’t have the uber-expensive tooling for one, and it’s also not a cheap manufacturing process due to the hand labor required – it’s hard work, and requires skilled labor which is expensive. And of course most of the expertise is in Asia anyway. However, they do plan to bring the carbon manufacturing in house in a few years–2015 is the goal. With the aerospace side of their business, in-house carbon manufacturing capability makes a lot of sense, but it will take some time to get there.</p> <h2>Titanium – The Other Metal</h2> <p>Thomson has two <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Handlebars/Thomson-Titanium_6957">titanium bars</a> on offer at the moment. Both are flat, 730mm wide, use an oversized 31.8mm clamp, and have a claimed weight of 295g (mine’s actual weight was 315g). Both carry an MSRP of $250. Yeah, there’s a little sticker shock there, we’ll talk more about that a bit later. The difference between the bars is the sweep: one has 6<sup>o</sup> of backsweep, the other has 12<sup>o</sup>. I stuck with the more traditional 6<sup>o</sup> sweep for my test bars. A riser version will be available sometime this summer.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/photo-4.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-28191" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/photo-4-533x400.jpg" alt="" width="533" height="400" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/photo-4-533x400.jpg 533w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/photo-4-300x225.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/photo-4-400x300.jpg 400w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/photo-4.jpg 640w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 533px) 100vw, 533px" /></a></p> <p>The bars can be cut down to a narrower width if you want, they even have cut marks on the ends. Be sure you have a good sharp blade–titanium doesn’t cut as easily as aluminum. They also have marks in the stem clamp area that perfectly match their own stems so you know the bars are centered. Officially you’re not supposed to use bar ends, but I did. Do as I say not as do, yada yada yada.</p> <p>This isn’t the first titanium handlebar ever made for mountain bikes, but it is the first and only (so far) wide ti bar with an oversized clamp – all the others currently available use the older 25.4mm clamp diameter. Last I looked around there <em>was</em> a narrow 31.8mm clamp ti bar available on eBay, but, would you trust your life to a no-name handlebar? Not me!</p> <h2>The Ride</h2> <p>The Thomson Titanium bars are billed as ‘the best bar you can buy for a rigid MTB.’ Why? Because over the years titanium has earned a reputation for being flexy and springy, and the bar is designed to have some give to smooth out the trail. I happen to have a rigid mountain bike, so that’s where the bar was mounted.</p> <p><span class="st_caption_shortcode_fix"><figure class="wp-block-image"><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/littledrop.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-28193" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/littledrop-533x400.jpg" alt="" width="533" height="400" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/littledrop-533x400.jpg 533w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/littledrop-300x225.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/littledrop-400x300.jpg 400w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/littledrop.jpg 1024w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 533px) 100vw, 533px" /></a><figcaption>The bars have just enough give to take the sting off rougher terrain when paired with a rigid fork.</figcaption></figure></span></p> <p>So, how does it all work when it comes time to hit the trail? Rather nicely. The bars do have a bit of give, but it’s not something I really noticed for the most part – and that’s a good thing. The bars are on my single speed, and I was worried they’d be too flexy and feel weird when I was out of the saddle and really torqueing the bars hard. But that is not the case–I didn’t notice them flexing at all. If you’re built like a linebacker you might feel them move, but I haven’t. The upshot: they ride a little more comfortably than the carbon bars they replaced on my bike, especially on bigger hits, where they take the sting off. It’s a great compromise; they’re comfortable, but not so flexible that they give a vague steering feel or unpredictable handling.</p> <p><span class="st_caption_shortcode_fix"><figure class="wp-block-image"><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/getskinny.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-28198" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/getskinny-300x400.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="400" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/getskinny-300x400.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/getskinny-225x300.jpg 225w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/getskinny.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a><figcaption>They're wide.</figcaption></figure></span></p> <p>Speaking of handling, I love the width on these things. These are the widest bars I’ve ever had, and they’re much wider than the bars I replaced. The bike feels much, much more planted and stable at high speed now and there is no feeling of skittishness or nervousness at all. Through rough terrain the extra leverage means it’s easier to hold the wheel on the line you want, especially with a rigid fork, which is more easily knocked off line than a suspension fork.</p> <p>But, 730mm is really wide, and might be too wide for some. There are a few spots on my local trails where these barely fit through the trees, and I do not want a bar any wider. Like I said earlier though, you can trim them down if you want. Before trimming any bar down though you should ride it for a while at full width and see if you like it. ‘Cause once you cut them, you can’t un-cut them. I’ve got around 200 miles on this set and still can’t decide if I want to trim them down a little or not…</p> <p><span class="st_caption_shortcode_fix"><figure class="wp-block-image"><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/whoops.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-28199" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/whoops-300x400.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="400" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/whoops-300x400.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/whoops-225x300.jpg 225w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/whoops.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a><figcaption>Maybe too wide for some riders.</figcaption></figure></span></p> <h2 class="mceTemp">About the Cost</h2> <p>At $250 there is no denying that these bars are on the upper end of the price range. Thomson’s carbon MTB bars retail for $100 less, and weigh about 100g less. Aluminum bars cost even less. So why would anyone want titanium? Well, it looks cool for one–there’s just something about that corrosion-resistant grey metal some of us love (my wedding band is even titanium!).</p> <p>Longevity and durability are less vain reasons to choose titanium. Of the three materials, carbon is the most susceptible to damage in a crash, and aluminum has the shortest fatigue life. Titanium weighs more than either, but has a longer fatigue life than aluminum and is less vulnerable in a crash than carbon. Most manufacturers recommend replacing handlebars every one to three years to prevent fatigue failure. Thomson recommends three years for their aluminum and carbon bars, but seven years for the titanium! In other words, in the long run, the titanium bar costs less since it should be replaced half as often.</p> <p><span class="st_caption_shortcode_fix"><figure class="wp-block-image"><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/night.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/night-533x400.jpg" alt="" width="533" height="400" /></a><figcaption>If you can't fit all your accessories (bell, lights, GPS, etc) on these bars, then you've got too much crap!</figcaption></figure></span></p> <h2>The Take Away</h2> <p>The Thomson titanium handlebars are pretty sweet, but won’t appeal to everyone. The quality is typical top-notch Thomson, even if they are made overseas, and they match the Thomson stems and seat posts perfectly (especially if the stem and post are silver). They’re more expensive than carbon or aluminum bars, and weigh a good bit more than carbon and a little more than some aluminum bars. But, they should have a much longer lifespan than either of the other materials. The width is as wide as most riders will want, and can be trimmed down if needed. There are two different sweep options that should please most riders. They have enough give to take the sting off bigger hits on a rigid bike, but they aren’t so flexy you notice it when attacking steep sections of trail out of the saddle.</p> <p>And, they’re titanium, which is pretty cool.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-28194" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/photo-2-533x400.jpg" alt="" width="533" height="400" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/photo-2-533x400.jpg 533w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/photo-2-300x225.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/photo-2-400x300.jpg 400w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/photo-2.jpg 640w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 533px) 100vw, 533px" /></p> <p><em>I’d like to thank Thomson for providing these bars for review. Want to know more? Check out their website <a href="http://www.bikethomson.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">right here</a>.</em></p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/review-titanium-handlebar-by-thomson/">Review: Titanium Handlebar by Thomson</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/review-titanium-handlebar-by-thomson/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>8</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>2012 Answer Components: Carbon 780 Bar and ROVE XC Stem Review</title> <link>https://www.singletracks.com/community/2012-answer-components-carbon-780-bar-and-rove-xc-stem-review/</link> <comments>https://www.singletracks.com/community/2012-answer-components-carbon-780-bar-and-rove-xc-stem-review/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Syd Patricio]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 07 Nov 2012 15:10:09 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Community]]></category> <category><![CDATA[am]]></category> <category><![CDATA[answer]]></category> <category><![CDATA[bars]]></category> <category><![CDATA[carbon]]></category> <category><![CDATA[DH]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Downhill]]></category> <category><![CDATA[fr]]></category> <category><![CDATA[stem]]></category> <category><![CDATA[xc]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=25216</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Having developed a solid relationship with the great folks at Answer over the last several years, whenever new products are sent to market they give us a call and let us put them to the test. This year I got my hands on the new ProTaper Carbon 780 DH bar, the ROVE XC stem, the …</p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/community/2012-answer-components-carbon-780-bar-and-rove-xc-stem-review/">2012 Answer Components: Carbon 780 Bar and ROVE XC Stem Review</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-25292" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_9807aa-590x393.jpg" alt="" width="590" height="393" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_9807aa-590x393.jpg 590w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_9807aa-300x200.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_9807aa.jpg 1200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 590px) 100vw, 590px" /></p> <p>Having developed a solid relationship with the great folks at Answer over the last several years, whenever new products are sent to market they give us a call and let us put them to the test. This year I got my hands on the new ProTaper Carbon 780 DH bar, the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Stems/Answer-Rove-XC_6372">ROVE XC stem</a>, the new long sleeve jersey, and the new WON gloves. In this article, I will focus solely on the hardware so stay tuned for an article on the new Answer soft goods soon!</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-25291" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_9625a.jpg" alt="" width="590" height="234" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_9625a.jpg 590w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_9625a-300x118.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 590px) 100vw, 590px" /></p> <h2>Carbon 780 bar</h2> <p>With some very successful aluminum bar designs under their belt, and a few carbon bars also making waves, Answers new <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Handlebars/Answer-Carbon-780_6373">Carbon 780</a> is making a big splash in the pond. The 780 is sculpted from uni-directional carbon, and is a scant 250 grams (). Utilizing the same ProTAPER technology as previous bars, the carbon wall thickness varies where it is needed (and more importantly where it is not), so you get a bar that is both strong and lightweight, with an overall stiff-but-not-too-stiff feel.</p> <p>The 4 up sweep and 8 back sweep stays the same from the aluminum versions, keeping your hands in a very wrist-friendly position. With two rise options–a pretty flat 12.7mm rise and a 25.4mm rise–you can choose how you want to set up your cockpit: a bit more forward attack, or a slightly upright feel. As a final touch, the bar sports a gritty grip area where the grips clamp down on the bar, so there is no need for grip paste.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-25293" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_9636a.jpg" alt="" width="590" height="254" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_9636a.jpg 590w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_9636a-300x129.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 590px) 100vw, 590px" /></p> <p>Ive mentioned before that after running a carbon bar it would be hard for me to go back. After riding with such a sweet full-width carbon 780mm bar, it would be even harder! I have used (and loved) aluminum versions of the ProTAPER 780, and the fact that it is now available in carbon is just an added bonus. Tack on the 85-gram weight savings, and the benefits just continue to pile up.</p> <p>The bar provides a great feel, putting my hands in the exact position that I like.The construction of the bars also reduces the sting of bigger impacts and washboard sections of the slopes, which allows me to ride longer with less hand fatigue.</p> <p>The uni-directional carbon layup is both stylish and practical. To me this look is much nicer than the alternative and it matches my V10C perfectly. I also feel that uni-directional carbon works better than a straight weave since there are no resin voids between the weave.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-25294" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_9648a.jpg" alt="" width="590" height="329" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_9648a.jpg 590w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_9648a-300x167.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 590px) 100vw, 590px" /></p> <h2>ROVE XC Stem</h2> <p>Looking for ways to remove some weight from my new <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Full-suspension-bikes/Santa-Cruz-Nomad_91">Nomad Carbon</a> while still keeping strength and durability is my current project. Having used the DJ, DH, and -ONE stems from Answer, I am familiar with the quality in workmanship, and expected no less when the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Stems/Answer-Rove-XC_6372">ROVE XC</a> arrived.</p> <p>Although the faceplate looks like the DH stem, the similarities end there. The Rove is narrower and designed for lighter-duty use. At 128 grams for the 70mm version, the Rove is a decent weight and, in fact, is nearly the same weight as a <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Stems/Race-Face-Turbine--_2862">Race Face Turbine</a>. Made from forged 2D 6066AL, Answer met their target weight without sacrificing strength thanks to a bunch of high-quality CNC work. The 4-bolt face plate spreads forces evenly across the handlebars, reducing the chance for stress risers (nasty elevated areas of stress which like to crack things), and the opposing steering tube bolts do the same. This makes this stem safe for use with both carbon bars and carbon steering tubes.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-25295" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_9650a.jpg" alt="" width="590" height="499" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_9650a.jpg 590w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_9650a-300x253.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_9650a-472x400.jpg 472w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 590px) 100vw, 590px" /></p> <p>The Nomad Carbon comes with a <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Stems/Truvativ-AKA-Stem_2133">Truvativ AKA stem</a> (if you purchase the complete SPX package). It was a decent stem to start with, but I wanted something a bit sleeker and lighter. With a 70mm option, I figured the Rove XC would be great. Knowing I will be running various bars, both carbon and aluminum, I figured that the wide faceplate would keep things safe.</p> <p>Installing the Rove is no issue at all: you just need a 4mm hex key and a torque wrench. Remembering to read the instructions (yes, I read all the literature that comes with parts), I ensured the spacing was even on the faceplate top to bottom and torqued the 4 bolts down to 6Nm, as well as the two for the steering tube. With the steering tube you have to remember to add a bit of preload to the top cap bolt; enough load to prevent any free play, but not enough to prevent the bars from steering with little effort.</p> <p>To date, the stem is holding up great, with no issues at all: no creaking or loose bars. Changing over a few bars for reviews, I didn’t have any issues of crushing or imprinting (which is quite possible, especially with carbon) underneath the top cap. So again, if you follow instructions, everything will go well!</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-25296" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_9746ab.jpg" alt="" width="590" height="526" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_9746ab.jpg 2176w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_9746ab-300x268.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_9746ab-447x400.jpg 447w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 590px) 100vw, 590px" /></p> <p>MSRP on the Carbon 780 is $180 vs. $90 for the aluminum versions, and the Rove XC stem costs $80, both of which are competitively priced.</p> <p><em>I would like to thank the folks at <a href="http://www.answerproducts.com/">Answer</a> for sending down the gear for review. Stay tuned for a review of their new softgoods!</em></p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/community/2012-answer-components-carbon-780-bar-and-rove-xc-stem-review/">2012 Answer Components: Carbon 780 Bar and ROVE XC Stem Review</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.singletracks.com/community/2012-answer-components-carbon-780-bar-and-rove-xc-stem-review/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>2</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Interbike 2012: New Wheels, Bars, Stems, and Seatposts from Easton</title> <link>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/interbike-2012-new-wheels-bars-stems-and-seatposts-from-easton/</link> <comments>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/interbike-2012-new-wheels-bars-stems-and-seatposts-from-easton/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Syd Patricio]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 28 Sep 2012 14:09:19 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Gear]]></category> <category><![CDATA[bars]]></category> <category><![CDATA[carbon]]></category> <category><![CDATA[EC70]]></category> <category><![CDATA[interbike]]></category> <category><![CDATA[interbike2012]]></category> <category><![CDATA[seatpost]]></category> <category><![CDATA[stem]]></category> <category><![CDATA[wheelset]]></category> <category><![CDATA[wide bars]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=25993</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Easton is a brand name that everyone knows, even if they’re not into cycling. This year, Easton is releasing some really interesting products, as well as cleaning up the rest of their line with fresh graphics that match throughout the entire product range. As usual, the hoops are a big deal. This year Easton boasts …</p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/interbike-2012-new-wheels-bars-stems-and-seatposts-from-easton/">Interbike 2012: New Wheels, Bars, Stems, and Seatposts from Easton</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4806as.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-25994" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4806as.jpg" alt="" width="590" height="278" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4806as.jpg 590w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4806as-300x141.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4806as-500x235.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 590px) 100vw, 590px" /></a></p> <p>Easton is a brand name that everyone knows, even if they’re not into cycling. This year, Easton is releasing some really interesting products, as well as cleaning up the rest of their line with fresh graphics that match throughout the entire product range.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4800as.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-26007" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4800as.jpg" alt="" width="590" height="393" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4800as.jpg 590w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4800as-300x199.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4800as-450x300.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 590px) 100vw, 590px" /></a></p> <p>As usual, the hoops are a big deal. This year Easton boasts a carbon wheel for everyone, from the Haven to the EC70 line. The EC70 Trail carbon wheel is a bargain (as far as carbon goes) for those looking for a carbon wheel. Compared to its bigger brother, the EC90 wheels, these are $700 cheaper (per pair). With an approximate price of $1850 (price varies depending on wheel size), that is still a big investment for most. But with a feather weight of 1460g (29er) / 1355g (26er), that represents a great loss of weight on many bikes. A 20mm inner rim profile is just about right for anyone who wants to run a 2.2″-2.4″ tire. At that width of rim, you’re looking at some serious strength!</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4801as.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-25999" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4801as.jpg" alt="" width="590" height="393" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4801as.jpg 590w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4801as-300x199.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4801as-450x300.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 590px) 100vw, 590px" /></a></p> <p>As with the entire Easton line, the EC70 wheels run straight-pull Sapim spokes, with a 24 spoke, 3-cross pattern both front and rear. Now the bad news: this wheel is not UST, so you will have to run a Stan’s conversion to get the benefits of tubeless tires. This is a tradeoff that unfortunately had to be made to fit in the target price point.</p> <p>What bikes do these wheels fit? With a QR 9mm / 15mm through axle for the front, and a 10x135QR / 12X135/142 through axle rear, these fit many of the XC and Trail 29ers and 26ers out there.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4630as.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-26000" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4630as.jpg" alt="" width="590" height="340" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4630as.jpg 590w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4630as-300x172.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4630as-500x288.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 590px) 100vw, 590px" /></a></p> <p>Easton continues its good work on its cockpit components. For all the gravity riders out there, the buzz is all about the 35mm Havoc bar and stem combinations that are filtering in. These are in such demand that it wasn’t until recently that I scored a set to review, despite the fact they debuted at Sea Otter. Up close these bars look heavy due to the increased diameter, but at 225g (uncut) these are crazy light. Add to that the minimalistic direct mount stem at 110g, and you’re getting a complete steering system that weighs about the same as an alloy bar.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4624as.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-26001" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4624as.jpg" alt="" width="590" height="303" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4624as.jpg 590w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4624as-300x154.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4624as-500x256.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 590px) 100vw, 590px" /></a></p> <p>The alloy version of the Havoc 35 bar weighs 300g. Both bars are 800mm wide with identical bends of 9° back sweep and 5° upsweep and a 20mm rise.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4808as.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-26002" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4808as.jpg" alt="" width="590" height="581" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4808as.jpg 590w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4808as-300x295.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4808as-406x400.jpg 406w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4808as-304x300.jpg 304w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 590px) 100vw, 590px" /></a></p> <p>Here is a shot of the new graphics that will be found on the line–in this case, an EA70 seatpost. Similar graphic treatments are finally available on the Haven and Havoc posts.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4799as.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-26003" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4799as.jpg" alt="" width="590" height="393" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4799as.jpg 590w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4799as-300x199.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4799as-450x300.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 590px) 100vw, 590px" /></a></p> <p>Check out <a href="http://www.eastoncycling.com/en-us/mountain">Easton’s website</a> for more info and a complete look at what they have available.</p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/interbike-2012-new-wheels-bars-stems-and-seatposts-from-easton/">Interbike 2012: New Wheels, Bars, Stems, and Seatposts from Easton</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/interbike-2012-new-wheels-bars-stems-and-seatposts-from-easton/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>7</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Interbike 2012: NukeProof Bikes + Components</title> <link>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/interbike-2012-nukeproof-bikes-components/</link> <comments>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/interbike-2012-nukeproof-bikes-components/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Syd Patricio]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 24 Sep 2012 12:46:16 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Gear]]></category> <category><![CDATA[bars]]></category> <category><![CDATA[complete bikes]]></category> <category><![CDATA[frames]]></category> <category><![CDATA[interbike]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Nukeproof]]></category> <category><![CDATA[pedals]]></category> <category><![CDATA[stems]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=25719</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>2013 marks a big push for NukeProof into the North American market. This year, NukeProof has a bunch of exciting (and good looking) new gear. At the show, four complete bikes were on display. Along with revisions to their existing bikes, there were two completely new rides as well as an ever-growing component line. With …</p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/interbike-2012-nukeproof-bikes-components/">Interbike 2012: NukeProof Bikes + Components</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4583a.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-25731" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4583a-590x307.jpg" alt="" width="584" height="303" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4583a-590x307.jpg 590w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4583a-300x156.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4583a-500x260.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px" /></a></p> <p>2013 marks a big push for NukeProof into the North American market. This year, NukeProof has a bunch of exciting (and good looking) new gear. At the show, four complete bikes were on display. Along with revisions to their existing bikes, there were two completely new rides as well as an ever-growing component line.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4581a.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-25733" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4581a-557x400.jpg" alt="" width="557" height="400" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4581a-557x400.jpg 557w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4581a-300x215.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4581a-418x300.jpg 418w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 557px) 100vw, 557px" /></a></p> <p>With a gravity slant to most of their lineup, the shortest travel bike on display was the Mega TR. Built around a 130mm-travel rear wheel chassis, a stock Rockshox Reveb Stealth helps set this cool-looking ride apart. The show model was configured with a single ring XO crank and chainguide up front with an XO type 2 rear derailleur.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4593a.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-25732" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4593a-585x400.jpg" alt="" width="584" height="399" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4593a-585x400.jpg 585w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4593a-300x205.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4593a-439x300.jpg 439w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px" /></a></p> <p>If you need more gears, the Mega TR has provisions for a direct-mount front derailleur. Cable routing is very clean, running along the top side of the downtube, collecting the rear derailleur cable, brake cable, and the Reverb Steath line. Accented with NukeProof carbon bars, stem, headset, and wheels, this is one clean-looking bike.</p> <p><span class="st_caption_shortcode_fix"><figure class="wp-block-image"><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/pulse.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class=" wp-image-25736" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/pulse-590x345.jpg" alt="" width="584" height="341" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/pulse-590x345.jpg 590w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/pulse-300x175.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/pulse-500x292.jpg 500w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/pulse.jpg 618w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px" /></a><figcaption>Shot of the pulse in pre-production color. Unfortunately, the Nukeproof booth's location made it tough to get a good shot of the bike.</figcaption></figure></span></p> <p>The next bike that caught my attention was the Pulse. Using input from the CRC / NukeProof team over the course of four years of riding the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Downhill/Nukeproof-Scalp_6356">Scalp</a>, the Pulse features 210mm of rear wheel travel. A refined axle path and improved three-stage fallout linkage makes for a World Cup-capable rig. The rear wheel’s movement is managed by either a <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Rear-Shocks/Rock-Shox-Vivid-Air-R2C_2876">Rockshox Vivid RC2</a> or <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/Rear-Shocks/Cane-Creek-Double-Barrel_6217">Cane Creek DB coil</a>. Standing side by side with the Scalp, you cannot help but notice the improved linkage packaging, which both improves the overall appearance and lateral stiffness as well.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4594a.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-25735" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4594a-590x393.jpg" alt="" width="584" height="389" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4594a-590x393.jpg 590w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4594a-300x200.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4594a-450x300.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px" /></a></p> <p>Double row bearings, split forging, and adjustable chain stay length are all incorporated in the design of the Pulse. The frame itself is made from 6061 T6 aluminum.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4575a.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-25734" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4575a-590x361.jpg" alt="" width="584" height="357" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4575a-590x361.jpg 590w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4575a-300x183.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4575a-490x300.jpg 490w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px" /></a></p> <p>The Scalp remains in the lineup, but now at a more affordable price. Still a very capable DH racer, the Scalp features 209mm of rear travel controlled by a Rockshox Kage coil shock.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4592a.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-25737" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4592a-590x337.jpg" alt="" width="584" height="333" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4592a-590x337.jpg 590w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4592a-300x171.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4592a-500x285.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px" /></a></p> <p>Other highlighted goodies on display were NukeProof bars, stems, and pedals in matching black, yellow, and silver.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4586a.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-25738" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4586a-590x340.jpg" alt="" width="584" height="336" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4586a-590x340.jpg 590w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4586a-300x173.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_4586a-500x288.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px" /></a></p> <p>Look forward to a few reviews of <a href="http://nukeproof.com/en/products">NukeProof’s extensive lineup</a> in the near future!</p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/interbike-2012-nukeproof-bikes-components/">Interbike 2012: NukeProof Bikes + Components</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/interbike-2012-nukeproof-bikes-components/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>3</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Mountain Bike Spring Cleaning, Part 3: Headset Maintenance and Final Details</title> <link>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/mountain-bike-spring-cleaning-part-3-headset-maintenance-and-final-details/</link> <comments>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/mountain-bike-spring-cleaning-part-3-headset-maintenance-and-final-details/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Syd Patricio]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 04 Jun 2012 11:51:30 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Gear]]></category> <category><![CDATA[bars]]></category> <category><![CDATA[cables]]></category> <category><![CDATA[components]]></category> <category><![CDATA[headset maintenance]]></category> <category><![CDATA[housing]]></category> <category><![CDATA[repair]]></category> <category><![CDATA[spring]]></category> <category><![CDATA[spring service]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=22624</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>This is the third and final installment in our series on spring mountain bike maintenance. You can read Part 2: Drive Train, Frame, and Brake Maintenancehere. Headset Maintenance After a year of riding in the muck and dust you will be surprised at how much abuse your headset takes. It is always a good idea …</p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/mountain-bike-spring-cleaning-part-3-headset-maintenance-and-final-details/">Mountain Bike Spring Cleaning, Part 3: Headset Maintenance and Final Details</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><em>This is the third and final installment in our series on spring mountain bike maintenance. You can read <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/mtb-repair/mountain-bike-spring-cleaning-part-2-drivetrain-pivots-and-brake-maintenance/">Part 2: Drive Train, Frame, and Brake Maintenance</a>here.<br /> </em></p> <h2>Headset Maintenance</h2> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/repair30-590x377.jpg" alt="" width="590" height="377" /></p> <p>After a year of riding in the muck and dust you will be surprised at how much abuse your headset takes. It is always a good idea to service it and clean the thing up. In the case of the Yeti, it had water contamination on the lower race.</p> <p>Clean up the installed race cups from any debris, as well as the head tube. You do not want any contamination here to get caught between a bearing and cup (otherwise you will notice that annoying creaking sound). Once the headtube and cups are cleaned, clean the fork’s steering tube and lower race.</p> <p>Now set the parts aside and concentrate on each of the races, one at a time. Turn them to ensure they still feel somewhat smooth. If either one feels like it has an index to it, you’re going to have to replace it because pitting has occurred. If it just feels rough, you can follow the same procedure outlined earlier on how to lube a sealed bearing. On headsets, like the other bearings, a good-quality grease that doesn’t wash out easily is paramount.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/repair32.jpg" alt="" width="568" height="366" /></p> <p>Once satisfied with the condition of the bearings, reinstall them (using that photo you took earlier if you need a reminder). With the dual crown on the Fox 40, we used the pad spreader adapters to carefully pry the clamps away a bit to ease installation.</p> <p>At this time I run the brake hoses around the frame set.Preload the headset, first making sure there is no play in the fork. Do not torque the upper crown at this time. I leave that until last when the wheels are back on the bike.</p> <h2>Handlebar Reinstallation, Brake Lines, Cables, and Housing</h2> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/repair31-590x251.jpg" alt="" width="590" height="251" /></p> <p>Reinstall the handlebar as an assembly–hopefully you didn’t take things apart. Torque the stem to the upper crown (usually 6-8Nm).</p> <p>Now run the brake hoses the rest of the way to the rear of the bike and along the fork. Loosely use tie wraps on the frame bosses to help your progress.</p> <p>I held off on the shifter cable housing simply because this item should be exchanged. If you do intend on keeping it, replace the cable. A new cable really keeps things shifting great. So run the housing to the rear derailleur, making sure you copy the path set by the manufacturer. Make sure you don’t have any sharp bends or leave the cable too short as suspension travel tends to lengthen the amount of cable needed.</p> <p>When replacing the cable, use a quality cutter like the Park CN-10 tool. A proper tool like the Park will cut the cable to a nice square finish. After the cable is cut, use a straight pick to ensure that the housing is perfectly round. That will eliminate a lot of the drag that is generated from the system.</p> <p>On the Yeti there is no front derailleur so we only did the rear shifter. Seeing that none of the settings were disturbed, we just adjusted the tension afterwards.</p> <p><em>(For more information on adjusting shifting be sure to read <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/mtb-repair/how-to-mountain-bike-cabling/">this article</a>.)</em></p> <h2>Wheel Maintenance</h2> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/repair33-563x400.jpg" alt="" width="563" height="400" /></p> <p>Now, it’s time to the service the wheels. If you have a truing stand you can now check out the condition of the wheels easily enough.If you don’t have a truing stand it might be a good time to visit the LBS and have them take care of the wheels.</p> <p>One thing everyone<em>can</em> do is check the condition of the cassette body and bearings. Turn the wheel axle and get a feel for the wheel. If it feels smooth you should be fine. If, on the other hand, a bearing feels rough, the bearings are in need of replacement (cartridge) or service (Shimano-type free ball). I personally have had limited luck with opening up cartridge hub bearings, and have found that the little cost involved in buying new bearings outweighs the hassle of service. So if the bearings are rough, order up a new set. The manufacturer of your wheel should have info on their website on how to replace a bearing, so check that out too.</p> <p>The Yeti had no issues with the wheels, so cleaning the cassette body was all that was needed. After the wheels were true and clean, we reinstalled them</p> <p><em>(For more information on how to true a wheel, be sure to read <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/mtb-repair/how-to-mountain-bike-wheel-building-101/">this tutorial</a>.)</em></p> <h2>Finishing it Off</h2> <p>Now with the wheels back on the bike, reinstall the crank and the chain. After that, bolt the front and rear brakes back on and adjust them.</p> <p>The last job is to put the bike on the ground (on its wheels) and tension the preload and steering properly. Using the top cap bolt, apply enough torque on the bolt to stop the steering from rattling when you drop the front end to the ground or apply the front brake and rock the bike back and forth, but not too much torque to make the steering feel stiff. Once you’re happy, tighten the three top bolts that secure the stanchion tubes and the upper crown to the steering tube. Do a quick road test to check shifting and braking, and all is done.</p> <p>Now get out there and shred!</p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/mountain-bike-spring-cleaning-part-3-headset-maintenance-and-final-details/">Mountain Bike Spring Cleaning, Part 3: Headset Maintenance and Final Details</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/mountain-bike-spring-cleaning-part-3-headset-maintenance-and-final-details/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Hangin’ with RaceFace at Interbike</title> <link>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/hangin-with-raceface-at-interbike/</link> <comments>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/hangin-with-raceface-at-interbike/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Syd Patricio]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 08 Oct 2010 13:04:35 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Gear]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Atlas]]></category> <category><![CDATA[bars]]></category> <category><![CDATA[cranks]]></category> <category><![CDATA[DH]]></category> <category><![CDATA[fr]]></category> <category><![CDATA[interbike 2010]]></category> <category><![CDATA[RaceFace]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Trail]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Turbine]]></category> <category><![CDATA[xc]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=8867</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>If you were to walk around Interbike last month you might have wondered where the RaceFace booth was set up. Six floors above the noisy convention center inside the Venetian hotel, RaceFace set up a swanky suite to show off their latest gear to a mostly invitation-only crowd. Fortunately trek7k and I were on the …</p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/hangin-with-raceface-at-interbike/">Hangin’ with RaceFace at Interbike</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/RF1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-8868" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/RF1.jpg" alt="" width="590" height="365" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/RF1.jpg 640w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/RF1-300x185.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 590px) 100vw, 590px" /></a></p> <p>If you were to walk around Interbike last month you might have wondered where the RaceFace booth was set up. Six floors above the noisy convention center inside the Venetian hotel, RaceFace set up a swanky suite to show off their latest gear to a mostly invitation-only crowd. Fortunately trek7k and I were on the list and we got a chance to sit down with John Pentecost to chat about the 2011 line.</p> <p>We started off talking about the newest and most anticipated items, the Next SL and SixC cranks. Both of these cranks are made of carbon using a process that’s super cool and super secret. Suffice it to say it’s manufactured using aviation-grade technology. The Next SL cranks weigh in at a feather-light 675 grams, lighter than top-of-the-line SRAM and Shimano cranks.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/RF6.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-8873" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/RF6.jpg" alt="" width="590" height="394" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/RF6.jpg 640w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/RF6-300x200.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 590px) 100vw, 590px" /></a></p> <p>The 2011 Deus and Next cranks feature some impressive features like newly redesigned chainrings called Turbine rings. Two years of engineering and testing went into the all new Turbine rings which have unparalleled performance. As with the previous Team and Race rings, the Turbine rings are made in Canada from 7075 aluminum so they’re built to last.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/RF3.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-8870" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/RF3.jpg" alt="" width="589" height="297" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/RF3.jpg 640w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/RF3-300x151.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 589px) 100vw, 589px" /></a></p> <p>What really piqued my interest was the SixC cranks (the “C” is silent), manufactured at the RaceFace British Columbia (Canada) facility. The crankset is completely hollow and the composite arms have no internal aluminum spine. Taking a look at the cutaway confirmed that claim, though the actual manufacturing process is a closely guarded secret (as it should be). With 3mm of chainline adjustability, this ensures the ability to achieve perfect drivetrain alignment even with difficult suspension frame designs and it’s ideal for fine-tuning shifting chainguide set-ups.</p> <p>The pedal and spindle inserts on the SixC cranks are co-molded and mechanically locked into place to guarantee that they’ll never loosen or creak. The SixC can be purchased in either a triple ring set-up or double ring with a lightweight 7075 alloy bashguard. All-alloy Torx 30 hardware keeps weight down and looks sweet.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/RF5.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-8872" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/RF5.jpg" alt="" width="590" height="384" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/RF5.jpg 640w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/RF5-300x195.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 590px) 100vw, 590px" /></a></p> <p>For 2011, RaceFace is all about color. Like the Atlas line, the Deus handlebars also come in several color choices, just in case you were planning on blinging out your ride. The 680mm wide Deus bar comes with a 3/4″ inch rise while the 785mm AtlasFR bar features a 1/2″ inch rise. But if color isn’t your thing, you can always go for the stealth look.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/RF2.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-8869" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/RF2.jpg" alt="" width="590" height="304" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/RF2.jpg 640w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/RF2-300x154.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 590px) 100vw, 590px" /></a></p> <p>That’s right, RaceFace had stealth looking bars stems and matching cranks on display at the show. This stuff looked really cool but was hard to shoot with the cameras (I guess the stealth really works). Of course RaceFace isn’t limited to what we were able to photograph here. Rest assured that the product line-up is huge with a multitude of bars, stems, cranks, seatposts, rings, and headsets. And don’t forget they also have a huge clothing and protection line designed with feedback from great riders like Brett Tippie and Wade Simmons.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/RF4.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-8871" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/RF4.jpg" alt="" width="590" height="338" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/RF4.jpg 640w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/RF4-300x172.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 590px) 100vw, 590px" /></a></p> <p>Now you gotta check out the <a href="http://www.raceface.com/">RaceFace website</a> to see all the cool gear and threads. I’ve been a believer in RaceFace products since as long as I owned a MTB – I had one of the original turbine cranks from way back – so I know the new stuff is going to be dialed on the trail. Put on your RaceFace for 2011!</p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/hangin-with-raceface-at-interbike/">Hangin’ with RaceFace at Interbike</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/hangin-with-raceface-at-interbike/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>2</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Spank Tools for Superheros</title> <link>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/spank-tools-for-superheros/</link> <comments>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/spank-tools-for-superheros/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Syd Patricio]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 23 Sep 2010 17:36:48 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Gear]]></category> <category><![CDATA[bars]]></category> <category><![CDATA[interbike 2010]]></category> <category><![CDATA[pedals]]></category> <category><![CDATA[spank]]></category> <category><![CDATA[stems]]></category> <category><![CDATA[wheels]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=8555</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Hi everyone. Well one of the first stops for me this year at Interbike was a visit with a friend of mine Lance Tueller, the Importer of Spank / iXS / and Morewood bikes. This year Spank went and spent a ton of time developing and improving an already impressive line-up of components. Basically the …</p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/spank-tools-for-superheros/">Spank Tools for Superheros</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/IMG_3285.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-8564 alignnone" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/IMG_3285.jpg" alt="" width="591" height="180" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/IMG_3285.jpg 1024w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/IMG_3285-300x91.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 591px) 100vw, 591px" /></a></p> <p>Hi everyone. Well one of the first stops for me this year at Interbike was a visit with a friend of mine Lance Tueller, the Importer of Spank / iXS / and Morewood bikes. This year Spank went and spent a ton of time developing and improving an already impressive line-up of components. Basically the message that I got was lighter, stronger, and bling. Everything from the Subrosa line of bars, rims, and saddles to the ber-tough Stiffy line of products got a once-over from the folks down at Spank. The new rims have two unique features that no other brand that I can think of has yet: the “Ooh-Bah” profile and bead nip technology. The Ooh-Bah profile is being carried to nearly all the rims in their line-up. Speaking of the line-up, Spank rims start from 23mm outside rim width all the way to a massive 40mm. I’m talking crazy Rampage dimensions!</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/spank2.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-8576" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/spank2.jpg" alt="" width="261" height="345" /></a><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/spank1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-8570" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/spank1.jpg" alt="" width="273" height="346" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/spank1.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/spank1-236x300.jpg 236w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 273px) 100vw, 273px" /></a></p> <p>Now another new item that is just awesome is the Spike pedal and honestly the pictures just dont give these jewels justice. For one thing the super low profile and the chamfered ends are simply amazing, especially for a pedal that boasts a generous platform with 9 pins on each surface and coming in at about 400 grams. Watch out for these pedals, I’m sure you’re going to see many of these on some up and coming bikes because of the great design. The inner bearing is placed as close as possible to the crank while the pedal body is tapered at the crank end to naturally move your foot onto the platform.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/spank3.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-8593" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/spank3.jpg" alt="" width="584" height="679" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/spank3.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/spank3-258x300.jpg 258w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px" /></a></p> <p>The Spike range has a nice bar coming in at 777mm wide and three rises (1, 2, and 3 inches) making this one very friendly to the gravity crowd. To top it off, the stunning anodizing and graphics makes this a bar to grab hold of. There’s also a re-engineered stem for the Boxxer / Fox crowd plus a price reduction which makes the stem even more attractive.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/spank4.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-8594" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/spank4.jpg" alt="" width="590" height="302" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/spank4.jpg 640w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/spank4-300x153.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 590px) 100vw, 590px" /></a></p> <p>Check out all this and more at <a href="http://www.spank-ind.com/">Spank Bike’s website</a>.</p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/spank-tools-for-superheros/">Spank Tools for Superheros</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/spank-tools-for-superheros/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>The “Answer” to Controlling Your Mountain Bike</title> <link>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/the-answer-to-controlling-your-mountain-bike/</link> <comments>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/the-answer-to-controlling-your-mountain-bike/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Syd Patricio]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 25 Mar 2010 20:33:28 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Gear]]></category> <category><![CDATA[4X]]></category> <category><![CDATA[All mountain]]></category> <category><![CDATA[answer]]></category> <category><![CDATA[bars]]></category> <category><![CDATA[DJ]]></category> <category><![CDATA[pedals]]></category> <category><![CDATA[stems]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=6451</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Since 1987 Ive owned mountain bikes from Yeti, Rocky Mountain, Cannondale, Giant, and Opus – and Answer bars have graced the cockpit on every one of them at one time or another. I still remember when MTB bars were measured against the performance of the Answer Taperlite and Hyperlite models. Just recently I came across …</p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/the-answer-to-controlling-your-mountain-bike/">The “Answer” to Controlling Your Mountain Bike</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/answer.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-6466" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/answer.jpg" alt="answer" width="589" height="354" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/answer.jpg 1024w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/answer-300x180.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 589px) 100vw, 589px" /></a></p> <p>Since 1987 Ive owned mountain bikes from Yeti, Rocky Mountain, Cannondale, Giant, and Opus – and Answer bars have graced the cockpit on every one of them at one time or another. I still remember when MTB bars were measured against the performance of the Answer Taperlite and Hyperlite models. Just recently I came across an old Answer mountain bike circa 1993 at my buddy’s shop (pics below – yes those are slicks… don’t ask).</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/answer4.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-6468" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/answer4-225x300.jpg" alt="answer4" width="202" height="269" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/answer4-225x300.jpg 225w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/answer4.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 202px) 100vw, 202px" /></a><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/answer2.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-6470" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/answer2-300x225.jpg" alt="answer2" width="359" height="268" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/answer2-300x225.jpg 300w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/answer2.jpg 1024w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 359px) 100vw, 359px" /></a></p> <p>I got a chance to chat with Tom Porter, Product Manager for Answer Products, and we discussed some downright sexy new products the company is introducing to the Gravity / 4X / DJ scene. It turns out he and I share many of the same interests and hobbies as well a passion for mountain bikes and the surrounding technology. Tom shared a bit of his background and how he came to where he is at today at Hayes Bicycle Group, home of Answer Products, Manitou Suspension, Hayes Disc Brakes, Sun Rims, Sun Ringle Wheels, and Wheelsmith Spokes.</p> <p>Coming from a family where Dad raced vintage sports cars and even a Can-Am car, Tom felt the need for speed at an early age. Being handy with a wrench, Tom started working at a bike shop around the same time mountain biking was taking off as a sport. Moving around in the industry with a stint at Waterford Precision Cycles (formally the Schwinn Paramount Factory), Tom then went to work for the Motorsports Composites Company making carbon fiber and kevlar body work for prestigious racing teams like Pratt & Miller and TWR for applications in 12-24 hour endurance racing. Thenin 1999, Tom moved to Hayes with a role in Technical Support. Quickly adapting to the new corporate model and with a firm understanding of the bicycle industry, he began managing and overseeing various aspects of MAG brake production which is highly regarded as one of the best hydraulic bike brakes ever made.</p> <p>As Hayes continued to grow, Tom’s next opportunity was in the acquisition and integration of all the new brands and products that are now part of the Hayes Bicycle Group. Once this job was complete and feeling a connection with the Answer brand, Tom has returned back to the product side of the business in his current position as product manager for Answer Products. Just 15 months in, there are super cool components available and more great things coming!</p> <p>Here’s what Tom had to say during our conversation.</p> <p><em>How does Answer investigate and prioritize what has to be done to improve specific products?</em></p> <p>We identify technology advances through the following process.</p> <ol> <li>Benchmark program of key competitor’s products and market trends.</li> <li>Internal FEA testing of models and extensive lab testing.</li> <li>Utilization of HTP (Hayes Test Program) Riders for the Research & Development of new components.</li> </ol> <p><em>What kind of new products and other stuff are in the works for Answer?</em></p> <p>We have a list of new components that we are launching throughout the year, starting off with the PRO Taper Alloy Bars.</p> <p>Pro Taper alloy bars (are made from a) new 7050 alloy material (using the) same proven (4×8 degree geometry). Rise was lowered and width increased based on market trends and rider feedback. Goal: Lower mass/quicker steering input & comfortable riding position in a bar that looks hot and has a reasonable cost.</p> <p><em><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/answer12.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-6478" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/answer12.jpg" alt="answer12" width="588" height="441" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/answer12.jpg 1024w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/answer12-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 588px) 100vw, 588px" /></a><br /> </em></p> <p>Pro Taper Carbon bars: geometry same as the 720AM bars but 33% lighter! By using Pro Taper technology we can put the material in the bars where it is needed most: the clamp and the rise areas. Goal: Lightweight, strong, comfortable bar for all-mountain use that looks the part.</p> <p><em>I noticed that the bars pictured above are more geared towards the trial / DH rider – do you have plans to produce a flat XC version?</em></p> <p>Yes we have a Pro Taper XC straight bar in the works. 660mm carbon flat bar with 3 degree back sweep. This will be available in early summer.</p> <p><em>Along with the bars I noticed that you also release a few stems.</em></p> <p>We have two at present, the first one, the Rove DH is made from 7075 alloy material with multi-position 45-50-55mm offset (reach) which allows the rider to adjust the position of the bar. (The) short position allows the rider to get weight over the rear wheel for steep trails and the long offset allows the rider to get weight more forward over the front wheel and suspension to increase front end grip. It also has a 62mm wide face plate which creates a stiff stem & bar interface. At 150 grams it’s one of the lightest DH stems on the market. With a 30mm x 50mm bolt spacing, this allows you to fit the stem on all 2005 Boxxer standard forks as well.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/306-24133_1000n_6.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-6476" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/306-24133_1000n_6.jpg" alt="306-24133_1000n_6" width="588" height="518" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/306-24133_1000n_6.jpg 957w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/306-24133_1000n_6-300x264.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 588px) 100vw, 588px" /></a></p> <p><em>FEA screen shot depicting the loads on the stem.</em></p> <p>The second stem in our lineup is the Rove DJ / 4-cross stem. Made from 7075 material with 35mm and 50mm offsets (reach) available. This stem can also be used on DH bikes as well with 1 1/8 steer tubes. 62mm wide face plate and a 10mm stainless steel star nut thru bolt for hydro hose routing for bar spins. Our goal with this stem was to create a tough, versatile stem carrying the Answer DNA.</p> <p>We have a third stem in the works, our Rove all-mountain stem. Samples will be released soon. Check out <a href="http://www.answerproducts.com/">the web site</a> for more info.</p> <p><em>A while back I had a few pedals sent my way did you want to mention them?</em></p> <p>We have our <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mtbreviews/Answer/Rove-FR/2073.html">Rove FR pedals</a> – 16mm 6061 deck with concave shape. That allows great shoe interface on the platform deck. A 105mm x 110mm deck creates nice platform space for all shoe options. 10×10 pin deck with alloy pins are great for grip. Hex head pins allow for easy service and replacement with a metric socket wrench. Our goal was to create a durable, easily serviceable pedal with lots of rock clearance.</p> <p><em>You also sent over a pair of grips that I personally liked very much, did you want to elaborate on the grips?</em></p> <p>Yeah. We worked with ODI on development of 2 new sets of grips. The cross section on the Fall Line XC has a profile from thin to thick to thin (an ODI first) that reduces hand fatigue dramatically.</p> <p>The DH grip features thin material and allows for easy hand position changes. Goal: consistent feel / sticky grips / with proven lock-on mechanism.</p> <p><em>What other products are in the works. Will you have a seat post or something along those lines?</em></p> <p>We have a seat post patent from many years ago that we have been reviewing. Once the above process (#1 above) is completed we will move forward with development of a new Answer seat post.</p> <p><em>Are you planing on any other colors in the up and coming year?</em></p> <p>Yeah. White is now available in the alloy bars and you <em>might</em> see a new gold bar that looks like the Hayes Prime Brake set to launch this June.</p> <p><strong>Wrapping up</strong></p> <p>Keep your eyes peeled for these and other cool products from Answer in the very near future. Not only have they come back, but from what I have seen I feel that there are going to be a few folks out there stepping up their game as well.</p> <p>I would like to thank Tom Porter for his time and insight.</p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/the-answer-to-controlling-your-mountain-bike/">The “Answer” to Controlling Your Mountain Bike</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/the-answer-to-controlling-your-mountain-bike/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Three For the XC Crowd From Easton</title> <link>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/three-for-the-xc-crowd-from-easton/</link> <comments>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/three-for-the-xc-crowd-from-easton/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Syd Patricio]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 23 Dec 2009 00:51:14 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Gear]]></category> <category><![CDATA[bars]]></category> <category><![CDATA[easton]]></category> <category><![CDATA[monkeylite]]></category> <category><![CDATA[reviews]]></category> <category><![CDATA[seat posts]]></category> <category><![CDATA[stems]]></category> <category><![CDATA[xc90]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=5221</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>It’s a good idea to update your MTB components every few years and the timing was perfect for me to give some 2010 Easton XC components a try on my Opus XC bike. Knowing very well that I toss my bikes around and really put them through their paces, I was stoked to install the …</p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/three-for-the-xc-crowd-from-easton/">Three For the XC Crowd From Easton</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/easton-xc.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-5223" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/easton-xc.jpg" alt="easton-xc" width="540" height="277" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/easton-xc.jpg 1024w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/easton-xc-300x153.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 540px) 100vw, 540px" /></a></p> <p>It’s a good idea to update your MTB components every few years and the timing was perfect for me to give some 2010 Easton XC components a try on my Opus XC bike. Knowing very well that I toss my bikes around and really put them through their paces, I was stoked to install the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mtbreviews/Easton/Monkeylite-SL-Composite/1205.html">Easton MonkeyLite SL</a> low rise bar ($150 MSRP), the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mtbreviews/Easton/EC90-Zero-Seat-Post/1525.html">XC90 Zero seat post</a> ($200 MSRP) and the<a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mtbreviews/Easton/EA90/2386.html"> EA90 stem</a> in white ($90 MSRP). All three items sport new graphics and look clean on any XC bike.</p> <p>My old carbon bar and seat post held out great over the years but both were showing signs of fatigue – chips, scratches, and small compression marks. The important thing to remember when installing carbon components is to follow all instructions to the letter using a torque wrench – otherwise you may cause serious damage. For the Monkeylite SL bar, tighten the stem bolts to 15 in/lbs and the master cylinder and shifter pods at 30 in/lbs. Careful attention here will also ensure you don’t develop compression marks on your shiny new equipment.</p> <p>Starting at the front of the bike, the MonkeyLite SL CNT is not your run of the mill carbon handlebar. For starters you don’t see a flashy carbon weave. Easton decided way back in 2005 to use an enhanced resin which contains very small carbon nanotube structures that essentially fill the voids that would otherwise be pure resin. The upside is this makes a structure that’s much stronger than normal carbon and resin structures. At 135 grams and 635mm wide, this makes for a very lightweight bar that’s wide enough to help expand the rider’s chest and enhance breathing. The low rise, 9 back sweep, and 5 up sweep keeps both hands and wrists exactly where you want them. Like the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mtbreviews/Easton/MonkeyLite-DH/2209.html">MonkeyLite DH bars</a>, these felt very comfortable over roots and rocks without the unpleasant sting you would get from an aluminum bar.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/easton-2.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-5227" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/easton-2.jpg" alt="easton-2" width="540" height="313" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/easton-2.jpg 1024w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/easton-2-300x174.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 540px) 100vw, 540px" /></a></p> <p>The white EA90 stem is a great addition to any XC bike, with lengths from 90 to 130mm and a sub-130 gram weight for the 120mm version. This is a stem with significant engineering behind it starting with the way the front plate is mounted. The front plate design evenly distributes stress loads onto the bars and the top locking mechanism improves stiffness and strength without adding weight. At a 0, 10 you can opt for a low front position or a slightly higher position which worked well for me. When installing this unit remember to tighten the top bolts first, then the bottom for an optimal fit.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/easton-3.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-5229" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/easton-3.jpg" alt="easton-3" width="348" height="259" /></a><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/easton-21.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-5228" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/easton-21.jpg" alt="easton-21" width="195" height="260" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/easton-21.jpg 768w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/easton-21-225x300.jpg 225w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 195px) 100vw, 195px" /></a></p> <p>Last but not least is the EC90 Zero seatpost. Available in three sizes (27.2, 30.9, or 31.6mm), I have to say this is one sexy seat post, as far as seat posts go. The EC90 Zero is full carbon, including the rail clamps. Easton uses a technology called EMC to shape the seat post, using essentially the same process used for forging metals. Extra long carbon fibers are compressed in a mold with a fiber to resin ratio of 60% and heat from the compression cures the carbon in the detailed mold. The result is a 3-dimensional carbon component that is both lightweight and strong.</p> <p>The finished product comes in at 190 grams, is 400mm long, and uses CNT technology just like the MonkeyLite SL Bar. The EC90 Zero includes a clamping relief on the back side of the seat post which prevents the seat tube from digging into the post and causing damage.</p> <p>Installation was mostly a snap – just remember not to use lube on a carbon post. There is a friction modifier that you can get from Finish Line called Fiber Grip which is probably the only thing I would consider using on this post. I had a somewhat difficult time setting up the angle and torquing the forward bolt because there’s very little clearance there. But once installed and on the bike, I haven’t had any issues – the post hasn’t slipped an inch or generated any creaks.</p> <p>If you’re ready to upgrade your XC bike for next year’s race season, these are the lightweight, high performance components from Easton you need to make the podium. Next thing you know your mountain bike will be packing more tech than an F-15 fighter jet!</p> <p><em>Thanks to the folks at <a href="http://www.eastonbike.com/index_vid.html">Easton</a> for providing the components for review.</em></p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/three-for-the-xc-crowd-from-easton/">Three For the XC Crowd From Easton</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/three-for-the-xc-crowd-from-easton/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>1</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Easton All-Mountain Products: Bar, Stem, and Seatpost</title> <link>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/easton-all-mountain-products-bar-stem-and-seatpost/</link> <comments>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/easton-all-mountain-products-bar-stem-and-seatpost/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Syd Patricio]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 08 Dec 2009 05:33:06 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Gear]]></category> <category><![CDATA[All mountain]]></category> <category><![CDATA[bars]]></category> <category><![CDATA[DH]]></category> <category><![CDATA[easton]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Freeride]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Havoc]]></category> <category><![CDATA[monkeylite]]></category> <category><![CDATA[reviews]]></category> <category><![CDATA[seat posts]]></category> <category><![CDATA[stems]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=4979</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Interbike is basically like a strip-club where you aren’t allowed to touch any of the dancers. This year I got all worked up seeing the latest from Easton but left the show feeling pretty unsatisfied. After flipping through the catalog hundreds of times and burning up the Easton website I finally got a chance to …</p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/easton-all-mountain-products-bar-stem-and-seatpost/">Easton All-Mountain Products: Bar, Stem, and Seatpost</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/4.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-5006" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/4.jpg" alt="4" width="541" height="243" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/4.jpg 1024w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/4-300x135.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 541px) 100vw, 541px" /></a></p> <p>Interbike is basically like a strip-club where you aren’t allowed to touch any of the dancers. This year I got all worked up seeing the latest from Easton but left the show feeling pretty unsatisfied. After flipping through the catalog hundreds of times and burning up <a href="http://www.eastonbike.com/">the Easton website</a> I finally got a chance to test the goods for myself.</p> <p>Easton hooked me up with a component trifecta that’s geared toward all-mountain / freeride / DH rigs. Most of us don’t realize it but handlebars, stems, and seat posts need updating and/or replacing every few years, particularly if they’re abused day in and day out (guilty). Fortunately Easton has just the ticket: the Monkeylite DH bar (now in 750mm width), the 65mm Havoc stem, and the Havoc two bolt seat post. These products alone or together offer the perfect complement to your long travel mountain bike.</p> <p>First on the block is the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mtbreviews/Easton/MonkeyLite/2209.html">MonkeyLite DH bar</a> (MSRP $150). The first thing you’ll notice about the 2010 MonkeyLite DH is the new graphics and flat white center. More importantly you also now have a choice of either 750mm or a slightly narrower 711mm version. The DH bar weighs around 230 grams which means it’s still lighter than most bars and incredibly strong. You get a very comfortable 9 back sweep which keeps your wrists fairly straight rather than twisted.</p> <p>You also get a 5 upsweep which I noticed reduces fatigue when turning (that little amount of rise rotated my wrists slightly towards the center of the bike and made me use more triceps). The 40mm rise placed my body in just about the right spot for hitting the slopes, reducing that unsettling “over the wheel” feeling. Since this is a carbon bar you’ll notice reduced sting from taking hits. Carbon allows the bar to flex without transmitting the full force of rocks, logs and drops through the bar.</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/5.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-5007 alignright" style="padding-left: 15px;" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/5.jpg" alt="5" width="200" height="338" /></a>The <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mtbreviews/Easton/Havoc-DH/2211.html">Havoc DH stem</a> (MSRP $85) comes in white or black this year and has new graphics as well. There are three lengths to choose from (50mm, 65mm, or 80mm) and each sports a 10rise. The Havoc stem is made from 6061 aluminum making it durable enough for the demanding rider without worrying about it breaking. I chose the 65mm stem (203 grams) which is not the lightest I’ve seen but I’m definitely willing to trade off a little extra weight for improved durability. The four bolt front cap was made as wide as possible to evenly distribute clamping forces, making it safe for carbon bars as well. The double pinch bolt at the steering tube is really a must for the all-mountain / freerider crowd. This is a very stiff unit that’s a great addition to any front end overhaul.</p> <p><em>NOTE: whenever installing stems or bars, always refer to manufacturer info for torque specifications and sequences. Failure to do so may permanently damage the stem and bar.</em></p> <p>The double bolt <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mtbreviews/Easton/Havoc/2210.html">Havoc seat post</a> (MSRP $80) is the third piece of the all-mountain pie. At about 285 grams for the 350mm unit you’re getting an Easton EA70 aluminum tapered wall unit that can take a ton of abuse. Available in four sizes (27.2, 30.0, 30.9, or 31.6mm), the post will fit almost any MTB seat tube out there. The killer feature here is that you can switch between either 7mm or 8mm rails by orienting the clamp plates. Perfect for those saddles with beefier rails!</p> <p><a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/6.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-5008" style="padding-right: 15px;" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/6.jpg" alt="6" width="300" height="228" srcset="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/6.jpg 1004w, https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/6-300x229.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a>The double bolt design allows you to easily set up your seat angle and provides a strong clamping area to prevent saddle movement. I did find the angle of the bolts a little annoying because I couldn’t use a tee-handle Allen key and ended up using a slower L-shaped tool. On the bike and hitting trails the seat post held up great with no creaking and no slipping of the saddle position – a definite plus.</p> <p>Overall the fresh new graphics, solid construction, and trouble-free installation of all these components make them a great choice for updating your all-mountain rig. Bring all three into the champagne room with you the next time you’re out!</p> <p><em>Thanks to the folks at <a href="http://www.eastonbike.com/index_vid.html">Easton</a> for providing the components for review.</em></p> <p>The article <a href="https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/easton-all-mountain-products-bar-stem-and-seatpost/">Easton All-Mountain Products: Bar, Stem, and Seatpost</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.singletracks.com">Singletracks Mountain Bike News</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-gear/easton-all-mountain-products-bar-stem-and-seatpost/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> </channel> </rss> <!-- Performance optimized by W3 Total Cache. 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