Every bicycle related media outlet in the business runs around Sea Otter to post the newest and hottest gear first, so we left that race up to them and decided to post just a few of our favorites from the event. Here are a couple items we like and are excited about for 2013. Make sure to let us know what you think by commenting at the bottom of the page.
The Easton Havoc 35 MM Carbon Bar is an innovative new item that was derived from the bigger Motocross clamp diameter. This bigger diameter makes the bars stronger, stiffer and lighter which are all good characteristics of a gravity fed carbon bar. This bar must use an upgraded bar clamp that is also offered by Easton.
SRAM's XO Type 2 Derailleur is another hot item that seems to make a whole lot of sense by working smarter, not harder. The 'NEW' Roller Bearing Clutch allows maximum stability to any XO / X9 drivetrain and eliminates derailleur bounce and chain slap. Also, the 'NEW' Cage Lock design makes the removal and installation of your wheel or chain quick and easy.
Gravity components has a new crankset on the horizon for 2013, which is a gravity focused / all mountain carbon powerhouse weighing in at 845 grams. The hollow carbon crank arms and 30 mm spindle will create a stiff and responsive pedal center for the more aggressive riders and trails.
The 'NEW' 2013 XO Trail brake is an exciting morph from the original XO all-mountain brake set with increased stability and consistency of a 4 piston DH brake. The new lightweight design offers all the ease and reliability found in the current XO system, but with the added stopping power needed to keep yourself in control on the long and relentless descents.
The Santa Cruz Tallboy LT Carbon is just a good looking bike... and has a good set of on-trail qualifications. The frame itself only weighs 5.35 pounds with shock, and can roll the steep rocky sections with its 29er wheels, stiff 142 x 12 rear end, and 69.5 degree headtube on a sexy carbon frame.
Shimano ZEE... where do we start. Shimano is known for their durability and precision shifting. The 'NEW' Zee Group offers just that and more with some awesome new developments that will keep gravity riders and their pocket books happy. Zee houses some of the same features as Saint, but at around 50% of the cost. Shown here is the Zee Shadow Plus 10 Speed Rear Derailleur that offers a low profile shift tucked safely below the rear cassette cogs. The Shadow Plus system is sure to keep your chain stable and in place while bombing the big fast descents. Check out more about the Zee group here: http://freehubmag.com/news/shimano-continues-legacy-gravity-components-two-new-groups-2013
A 'NEW' innovation by Hayes has made brake adjustment easy with the invention of their 'Crosshair Alignment' technology. As shown on this set of Hayes Prime Pro brakes, they have added two, 2mm adjuster screws to the mount slots that allow for accurate adjustment between the rotor and pad. Aside from the increased efficiency with the adjustment settings, Hayes has also re-designed their brake levers for a closer and and more ergonomic feel between the lever and finger tip.
The Continental Mountain King shown here looks to be a really resilient tire for the 29er XC / All-Mountain market. They used the Black Chili Rubber Compound that is handmade in Germany, as well as the Revolution Tubeless Ready (RTR) technology that adds to the reliability and ensures a burp-resistant interface between the rim and tire. Continental has also used their one-of-a-kind ProTection technology; an internal reinforcement layer that provides superior protection against punctures and increased sidewall durability. Stay tuned for an in-depth review on this tire from us soon!
These are some of the products we are excited about here at Freehub Magazine, and we would love to hear your thoughts. Let us know what you think by adding your comments below.
