.
.
.
#SpringIsComing #MountainBikingAdventures #FGFSeries #GiantReign1 #FoxSuspension #PowerMeterPedals #HeManPower #GalibierAtlantic #OutdoorBraces #ShimanoCUES #HoverAirX1 #BikeLife #BirthdayCards #ForumThreadOfTheWeek #SingletrackMagazine
Source link
The article from Singletrackworld celebrates the approach of spring and the excitement it brings to mountain bikers, particularly with the transition to British Summertime and lighter evenings. It also highlights the latest gear, bikes, and accessories that have recently arrived at Singletrack Towers, offering a mix of practical, humorous, and nostalgic insights into the world of mountain biking.
Spring is Coming!
The opening sets the tone with a playful nod to Game of Thrones, humorously replacing “Winter is coming” with “Spring is coming!” This sentiment encapsulates the anticipation of longer days, warmer weather, and more time for outdoor adventures. The article acknowledges the fleeting nature of the current darker evenings, encouraging readers to make the most of them before summer arrives.
Gear and Bike Highlights
The article dives into a variety of new products, starting with the Giant Reign 1, a mountain bike that stands out for its progressive geometry, high-quality suspension (Fox Performance Elite), and reliable components from Shimano and Maxxis. The bike’s design, including its head angle, seat angle, and chainstay length, is praised for its versatility and performance.
Next up are the Favero Assioma Pro MX-2 Power Meter Pedals, which allow riders to measure their power output with precision. These dual-sided pedals are compatible with Shimano cleats and feature Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity, along with a waterproof magnetic charging system.
For those seeking comfort off the bike, the Galibier Atlantic Changing Robe is introduced as a more sustainable alternative to the popular DryRobe. Made from 100% recycled materials, it’s ideal for staying warm during chilly soccer matches or post-ride changes.
In a more humorous vein, the NO BRAND Outdoor Braces are presented as a quirky solution for keeping trousers in place, whether due to slippery fabric or heavy weight. Described as both practical and nostalgic, they add a touch of whimsy to the gear roundup.
The Shimano CUES 10-speed Transmission is highlighted as an affordable and versatile groupset replacement for older systems. Its Linkglide technology and 11-48T cassette are particularly noted for their suitability for non-extreme terrain.
The HoverAir X1 ProMax drone is briefly mentioned as a follow-me drone, though the author admits limited knowledge of its technical details.
Personal Touches and Nostalgia
The article takes a personal turn with a mention of bikey birthday cards, showcasing two examples received by the author, Benji. One card humorously reflects a non-rider’s generic understanding of bikes, while the other features an iconic mountain biking image, possibly of Steve Peat from the 2000s.
Forum Thread of the Week acknowledges a community thread by user anorak, who is rewarded with a random prize, likely a mini cowbell.
Promotions and Podcast
The article promotes Singletrack Magazine’s Issue 159, available for just the price of postage using a discount code. It also highlights a Garmin sale, offering up to 40% off selected products designed for outdoor enthusiasts.
Lastly, the Singletrackworld Podcast Episode 8 is recommended, with a YouTube link provided for listeners.
Stale Goods Friday
The feature concludes with a nostalgic look back at the 2014 Banshee Phantom, a short-travel 29er narrowly missing out on a group test in a previous issue. Described as “short travel, max fun,” it embodies the spirit of adventurous riding.
About the Author
Benji, the author, reflects on his long-standing involvement in mountain biking, writing, and photography. Despite being a Lancastrian, he expresses a deep affection for riding in West Yorkshire, particularly the South Pennines.
Conclusion
The article blends practical gear reviews with humor, nostalgia, and community engagement, capturing the essence of the mountain biking lifestyle. As spring approaches, it serves as a reminder to embrace the outdoors, celebrate new gear, and reflect on the joy of riding.
