BLKTEC C1D full carbon all-road wheels
Aimed at riders wanting a stiff wheel for laying down all the power, even when the roads get a bit rough, the new BLKTEC C1D road bike wheels are fully modern in more than just looks. They’re disc brake-only, hookless, tubeless-ready, and feature a ~21mm internal width, fitting up to 700×35 tires.
But it’s the one-piece full carbon fiber construction that sets them apart, and gives them the $4,880 price tag. They say the design gives them a rigid, no-flex ride, turning all of your power into forward motion. Claimed weights are 695g (F) and 796g (R), with a 380g rim & 120kg rider+bike weight limit. I’m testing a set now…availability TBA.
Sinter Elite gold titanium brake pads
Beating those on a gram-per-dollar, the new Sinter Elite disc brake pads get titanium backing plates with 24ct gold plated springs and pins. It’s not just for show. Well, the gold is, but… The titanium plates are lighter, but also have better heat management, transferring less heat to the piston and fluid.
Organic pad compounds claim to be quiet, with excellent modulation and pad life, offering an “unforgettable” braking experience. And they should, they’re €169.95 for a set (F&R). Add €20 for a customized luxury wooden box. For Shimano road, gravel & XC brakes.
New State Bicycle Co. e-bike is slick, and just $1,499
This might be the best affordable commuter e-bike we’ve seen, thanks to a slickly hidden battery, simple singlespeed drivetrain, and integrated head unit.
No gears keeps it low fuss, and let them put money into things like a full alloy frame and fork, Kenda tires, and LG-brand batteries. The hub motor kicks out up to 250W with five levels of assistance and up to 100mi of range (expect 18-20 miles on full power). All packaged in a stealth black build with 18-month warranty on the electronics and 5 years on the frame.
Serial1 SWITCH/MTN e-mountain bike debut
If you want something more aggressive, the Serial1 SWITCH/MTN is a stout e-mountain bike from Harley Davidson’s bicycle offshoot. It runs $4,499, about 3x the State, but you get a lot more power, longer battery life, and proper MTB spec.
The SR Suntour Zeron35 Boost fork has solid damping adjustments and an air spring. Michelin WILD tires offer grip, while TRP hydraulic disc brakes, SRAM SX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain and dropper post round things out. A 529Wh battery powers the Brose S Mag and custom integrated lights. Ships in August.
Chamois Butt’r Ultra Balm
This is the product I’ve been looking for ever since doing a few 100+ mile gravel races (BWR, The Rift, Big Sugar) in the rain. Waterproof shorts aren’t practical, and standard chamois creams quickly dilute and lose their effectiveness when my shorts get soaked.
Chamois Butt’r Ultra is a thick, longer-lasting, water-resistant anti-chafe solution for all-day rides. Or wet rides. Unlike other balms, it’s petroleum-free, relying on beeswax, coconut oil, shea butter and peppermint oil (without tingle). And it comes in a reusable tin that’s easier to pack. MSRP is $30 for 5oz.
SCOR downsizes with 20″ & 24″ kids mountain bikes
Coming from the more aggressive mountain bike sister brand to BMC, the new SCOR kids mountain bikes offer trail-ready hardtails with lightweight alloy frames and big 2.4″ tires.
Both the 20″ and 24″ versions get Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, Kenda tires, and SRAM 1×8 drivetrains. Kid-specific components ensure the cockpit is sized appropriately, and a powdercoated finish resists scuffs a bit more than paint. Minimal branding lets them sticker it up. Available in dealers and direct.
Recommendation:
PRO Discover alloy gravel bike handlebar
The PRO Discovery 12 alloy handlebar is one of the better non-carbon bars I’ve ridden on gravel. The top is flattened to provide a comfortable perch for long distance cruising, and the 12º flare is just enough for good wrist clearance in the drops. Even with PRO’s firm-ish bar tape, it hasn’t felt harsh even when riding rooty singletrack.
Ports for Di2 compatibility add versatility, but brake hoses run externally for easy installation. A short 65mm reach and 115mm drop, with well-rounded corners, are comfortable and allow for quick, smooth transitions between hand positions. Available in 40/42/44 widths, plus wider 20º and 30º flare models, too. Claimed weight is 255g (40cm). MSRP is $65 (Check price @ Backcountry.com)
On Stage
Small Bites
- Check out the All In My Head art show at Blacksmith Cycles in Toronto
- People For Bikes’ 2022 City Ratings are now live, how does your city rate?
- Enter to win a $20,000 bike+trip package from Kogel bearings
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