Further to yesterdays post, your cycling superiors, who have been testing bikes for 25 years and know much more than you do, have abandoned the laughably obsolete saddle pack in favor of the clearly-superior-in-every-way downtube storage compartment:It hardly bears repeating at this point that if youre not riding a plastic bike with a glove compartment in it youre a total loser, and that strapping your tools to the underside of your saddle is the cycling equivalent of transporting your belongings in a hobos bindle:But what if bicycle glove compartments arent all theyrecracked up to be, so to speak? In fact, one commenter even indicated that his literally did crack, or at least the latch that closes it did. So I asked my intern to a little research, and sure enough, these things can and do have problems, whod-a thunk it?Here are some replies:Mine stays on the bike but sometimes it sits like this.. so the water can go inside the frame when I wash the bike..I have lost mine during my third ride. I have just ordered a new one and i consider using a strap in the futureI have the same issue. Not while riding but when transporting my bike on the back of my car. I arrived at my destination to start riding and the lid was gone. Including my co2 canister and pump. Bad start of the day. I guess wind got under it and lifted it.I ordered a new one but with this one, just like the old one, there is a small gap where wind can get under it. I strap it down while transporting it.. Bad design Im afraidI lost mine yesterdayI lost mine tooWell, same as brought up in other post. the lid just barely holds on and Ive had to turn back to retrieve on a ride once before.I live in Costa Rica so it rains often and the fact that it does not have a tight fit allows for water to get inside as I transport the bike on the car. Pretty bad as humidity is an issue and Ive had to clean the inside pouch a few times.I just lost mine today!I just had this problem too. Only the 4th ride and its gone. I see lots of people are having issues. I dont quite understand why its so flimsy.Wait, I thought downtube storage compartments solved the problem of wet tools:I unpacked the pack earlier this week and the contents are pretty much totalled. The inner tube has corrosion on the valve, my multi-tool is rusted shut and the glueless patches have glued themselves together not to mention the C02 cartridge thats so corroded Im scared to use it in case it fails.So, Im left with a three-figure bill to replace whats been ruined inside a pack that, despite the claims, does let water in.So whos the wet tool now? And lest you think Im singling out Canyon, a storage compartment by any other brand name can get just as lost:Or simply loose and rattly:Of course one solution is to just go with it:But is it safe to ride a bicycle with a missing storage compartment lid?And what do you even call these things?Fortunately, you can in fact purchase a replacement:But youd better hurry, because there are only two left:I guess they cant keep em in stock since everyone keeps losing them.It would not surprise me to learn that Canyon makes more money selling replacement lids than they do on the bikes themselves. In fact, given the state of the industry, I suspect that at this point they only make the bikes so they can sell people the lids. Basically, carbon gravel bikes are now the equivalent of ink jet printers, and the storage compartment lids are the cartridges, which is where the real money is.At least $25 isnt that much money for the unfortunate Canyon consumer to payunlike the poor schnook who needs a replacement lid for a Chek Trekpoint:That will cost you almost four times as much:And hey, if you like fussing with internal cable routing, youll love fishing stuff out of your downtube:Its fun!Dont worry, it only took him three hours to get it out:Losing your tubeless tire plugs in your downtubenow thats a modern cycling problem.Speaking of tubeless, I recently received the following email from a reader:As you probably know, Calvin Jones retired from Park Tool. He recorded a few last videos before he left. Sealant Just Where You Need It was published on YouTube today. I wont necessarily call it sealant porn but try watching from the 5:30 mark.So yeah, I watched it.Heres the video:And heres the money shot:Now I need a shower.Speaking of creating problems for yourself, few people do it better than aging outlaw cyclist Lucas Brunelle, who recently uploaded this video:Okay, this is what its like in New York right now:[I wasnt even riding when I took this photo, I was just walking. Because the bike lane was clear, but the sidewalk wasnt. Welcome to Mam-commies New York.]Do you know how badly I wish I was somewhere sunny and warm right now? Meanwhile, heres Old Man Brunelle, whos gotta be pushing 80 at this point, in lovely Miami:And what is he doing with himself? Riding around with a bunch of people in PNS jerseys who are one-quarter of his age and having completely pointless and avoidable interactions with the police:Likewhy? For chrissake, stop hitting yourself, Lucas! Hop on your bike and ride to the beach or something, nobody will bother you. Why speed around with a bunch of unruly Freds when you know youre just going to have to stop? And you absolutely know its going to happen, because youve been posting basically the same video for at least the past six years:I mean what is the point of going through this over and over again?Youre really sticking it to them.

Stage 1 of the Giro di Sardegna has delivered a very dramatic finale, as Soudal - Quick-Step had the numerical advantage; however saw themselves beaten by Team UKYO's Nicolo Garibbo who outpowered the World Tour duo at the end of a hard stage. The opening stage of the race took the riders from Cast...

Microshift has unveiled the new Advent MX drivetrain, which is said to be its most robust, high-performance mountain bike groupset to date. Designed for trail and all-mountain riding, Advent MX pairs a wide-range 11-50t or 11-48t cassette with a redesigned rear derailleur, updated trigger shifter and what the brand calls its strongest clutch mechanism to date. The groupset is offered with either a 10-speed or 11-speed cassette, with the brand claiming they last six times longer than Advent X. Microshift also promises better shifting engagement thats four times faster, and improved chain retention thanks to a horizontal parallelogram layout and beefed-up clutch. The groupset is priced at $194.99 / 195.99 for the 10-speed variant, with the XD Driver 11-speed option $244.99 / 239.99. We tested the drivetrain before launch, so check out Luke Marshall's review below. Read more: Microshift Advent MX 11-speed review: forget the big brands, this is the workhorse drivetrain your ebike needs Beefed-up body The Advent MX derailleur has been made more durable. Microshift Microshift says Advent MXs design brief was simple: shifting performance doesnt matter if your chain falls off. To achieve this, the brand has beefed up the rear derailleur with a horizontal parallelogram that moves strictly sideways. This is said to isolate vertical and horizontal forces, directing impacts from rough landings into the clutch mechanism rather than disturbing the derailleur bodys alignment. The claimed result is improved chain stability on rough terrain. Microshift The clutch has been redesigned to be both stronger and quicker to engage, operating instantly and silently. IGUS bushings feature in the derailleur construction, and a replaceable derailleur cage is available on the standard MX rear derailleur, enabling riders to swap a damaged cage rather than replacing the entire derailleur However, the MX Black version does not feature a replaceable cage. Faster engagement The shifters have been redesigned to be faster. Microshift Microshift says it has removed dead play from the shifting mechanism, resulting in four times quicker engagement compared to Advent X. The new trigger shifter is designed for tighter, more repeatable actuation, with 12mm of lateral adjustment at the clamp. This enables you to move the shifter inboard or outboard to fine-tune lever position without interfering with the brake controls. The groupset doesn't include the crankset. Microshift A cable-redirection pulley on the derailleur provides a more direct cable path, reducing friction and shifting tension. According to Microshift, this lower friction enables the use of a stronger clutch without increasing lever effort at the shifter. The result, says the brand, is a faster response even under high torque useful when attacking steep, unplanned climbs on your eMTB. SpeedRamp cassette The SpeedRamp has dedicated shapes for moving the chain up and down the cassette. Microshift At the heart of the system are two new cassettes featuring what Microshift calls SpeedRamp technology. Microshift claims the new cassettes last six times longer than Advent X, and in high-torque ebike durability testing, says it outlived a competitors top offering. The smallest cogs are individually replaceable, which should help extend service life further. Chromoly steel sprockets are from 11-28t, with additional hardening on the smaller cogs. Despite the durability focus, the cassette is claimed to weigh 480g, which Microshift says is competitive among high-durability, wide-range options. For the first time from Microshift, the cassette is offered in both HG and XD Driver body options so it will be swappable between bikes already using SRAM or Shimano drivetrains. 10-speed and 11-speed options Advent MX is designed for all-mountain riding. Microshift Advent MX is available in both 11-speed and 10-speed configurations. The 11-speed cassette is fully compatible with Shimano CUES cassettes, although the shifter and derailleur are Microshift-specific. Advent MX 10 is compatible with 10-speed chains and is fully cross-compatible with Advent X and Sword 10, enabling incremental upgrades. MX and MX Black rear derailleurs share the same cable-pull ratio as Advent X, making them direct replacements from a compatibility standpoint.

The Opening Weekend is just at our door and the cobbled classics specialists begin here a key month and a half to their season. From Omloop het Nieuwsblad all the way to Paris-Roubaix we will have the likes of Mathieu van der Poel and Tadej Pogacar present in the main races; which means that most wi...

Garmin has published its 2025 inReach SOS Year in Review, which details when, where, and how its emergency features were used. For more on this in-depth report, check out all the details belowThe post The 2025 Garmin inReach SOS Year in Review Has Some Interesting Insights appeared first on BIKEPACKING.com.

Both SRAM and RockShox had major announcements yesterday as February comes to a close. While weve seen DH forks and drivetrains that look a touch different or seem new, the brands have done a pretty good job of keeping their latest offerings under wraps.Now, the new RockShox Boxxer and updated Vivid Ultimate, SRAM XX DH Transmission, and updated Maven brakes have been released. No more hiding, no more secrecy. So, of course, were starting to see some brands updating their DH bikes with these new components.It started with the Pivot Phoenix XX DH Special Edition, and continues with some other rad offerings, likely with many more to come. New DH OfferingsMondraker SummumThe Summum stretches back more than 15 years. The DH bike came into production in 2011, with the earliest sightings in the years leading up. And, with the release of the latest and greatest from SRAM and RockShox, were seeing a brand new Summum hitting the tracks.Well, actually, this bike has been hitting the tracks for over a year now. Mondraker says theyve been working on the bike for a couple of years, with earlier prototypes sitting atop podium steps.The new Mondraker Summun helped Ronan Dunne snag a World Cup victory at Les Gets last season. It was also beneath Ryan Pinkerton when he was crowned the 2025 US DH National Champion.The bike also had an appearance at last years Redbull Hardline in Tasmania. But many missed it, simply because not much has changedvisually, at least.Mondraker slightly changed the rocker link, making the latest version a bit shorter. It also sits lower in the frame. They also moved the rear shock mount a bit lower on the frame and added a flip chip, allowing you to change the bottom bracket height by 5mm and the headtube angle by 0.35.There are also adjustments on the rear dropouts. Chainstays sit at 455mm across the three sizes, but can grow or shrink by 5mm. Reach-adjust headset cups also allow for 5mm of adjustment.In fact, geometry is likely the most significant change on this DH rig. Mondraker continues with the longer, lower, slacker trend for the new Summum. The chainstays and reach are both longer compared to previous iterations. The headtube angle is a whole degree slacker, sitting at 62.5, and the stack has also increased to 642mm on a size large.Combined, these give the new Summum a lengthy wheelbase of just over 1,315mm. Longer indeed. Along with geo tweaks, the Summum sees some kinematic tweaks to its Zero Suspension System. More mid-stroke support was added, allowing the bike to ride a touch higher in its travel.And, of course, the Summum is sporting the new DH offerings from SRAM and RockShox.Mondraker Summum DetailsMondraker offers the Summum in two builds: Summum R and RR. Both feature Mondrakers Stealth Alloy frame and remain mixed-wheeled. The Summum RR sports the latest and greatest DH components from RockShox and SRAM which probably includes the new brakes. At this point, without the brand listing, whether its the Maven A1 or B1, its anyones guess. Heres the build:Fork: RockShox Boxxer UltimateShock: RockShox Vivid Coil UltimateBrakes: SRAM Maven UltimateDrivetrain: SRAM XX DH TransmissionWheels: DT Swiss EX 1700 w/ 350 hubsTires: Maxxis Assegai/DHRWeight: 41.7lbs (18.9kg)Price: $9,499Check it out at mondraker.com.Ari Superior PeakThe Superior Peak is the DH bike in Aris lineup. While nothing has changed as far as frame and geometry go, the new Superior peak does see some other fairly significant changes.First, as more DH racers and park rats alike are taking advantage of a smaller rear wheel, the bike will now come standard in the mixed-wheel configuration. But those enjoying the rollover of the larger rear wheel will be happy to know that the frame still accommodates a 29 wheel.The Superior Peak is also getting a color refresh, adding Chameleon Metallic and Raw Alloy/Black.And, obviously, Ari is using many of the new DH components from SRAM and RockShox across the builds. This includes the new Boxxer, Vivid Coil, Maven brakes, and XX DH Transmission. Ari is using not only the new top-level Ultimate suspension but also the new Select-level suspension on lower models.But, we like to drool over the top-specd DH bikes, so here is the build for Aris Superior Peak Pro:Fork: RockShox Boxxer UltimateShock: RockShox Vivid Ultimate DHBrakes: SRAM Maven Silver (revised SwingLink)Drivetrain: SRAM XX DH TransmissionWheels: Crankbrothers Synthesis DH Alloy V2Tires: Maxxis Assegai/DHRPrice: $7,899Check it out, along with the other builds, at aribikes.com.The post Updated Mondraker Summum & Ari Superior Peak Now Include Newest Parts From SRAM & RockShox appeared first on Bikerumor.

Santinis commitment to sustainability has previously seen it switch to recycled materials and compostable packing. But now it's taking a step into the future with a fabric that is made from CO2 emissions. The new Santini Aero Race cycling jersey, which will officially launch in April, features Polartecs new Power Dry Carbon fabric. This uses carbon capture technology to compress CO2 emissions from steel mills into polyester fibres. Explaining the tech at the COREBike trade show, Santinis Jonathan Sangan said the process was a miracle of science, and that the fabrics credentials extend beyond being good for the environment. That [process] creates an extremely lightweight fabric, but also an extremely breathable fabric with a lot of UV protection, Sangan said. Official details about the Polartec fabric have not been released yet. But the name suggests it will be a version of the companys Power Dry base layer material, which is said to quickly wick moisture away and to be comfortable against the skin. Polartec is not the first to use carbon capture to create polyester materials. Companies such as Fairbrics, Craghoppers and LanzaTech are already using the technology to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. LanzaTech has worked with brands such as LuLuLemon and On, which released its first collection using the technology in 2023. Santini uses Polartecs Power Dry Carbon fabric for the new jerseys front and rear panels, while it uses a ribbed aero fabric for the sleeves and across the upper back. The jersey will cost 160, putting it at the premium end of the market. But Sangan says the fabric should trickle down to lower price point kit in the coming years. Santini will release a Mads Pedersen collection in April. Santini Alongside the standard Aero Race, there will be a limited edition Mads Pedersen version as part of Santini's forthcoming collaboration with the LidlTrek rider. The collaboration will also launch in April and is said to have an aesthetic that expresses Pedersen's grit and distinctive style. This is the most recent example of cycling products using more environmentally friendly materials from Polartec. In 2024, Santini released the Magic rain jacket which uses Polartecs PFAS-free and waterproof Power Shield RPM fabric. Last year, Castelli released the new Perfetto jacket which uses Polartec Aircore another PFAS-free fabric which is said to be lightweight, breathable, windproof and water repellant. Santinis Mads Pedersen collection is set to launch at the end of April and is said to be dedicated to aerodynamics and speed.The Italian clothing company is the official apparel supplier to LidlTrek, Pedersen's cycling team. More from COREBike Hope reveals HB.912 trail bike with launch set for later this year Udog has made a dial-closure alternative to my favourite gravel shoe Prologos new Pressure Map system clips onto your saddle and provides real-time fit data

The riders take on the first cobbled classic of the season. For many, the 'start of the season', as the peloton arrives to Belgium to ride the Omloop het Nieuwsblad on the 28th of February. With just over a month left to the cobbled monuments, this will be the first true challenge of the spring for...

Just released, the new Veloci Cage Wednesday Front Rack is an interesting Chromoly steel front rack with two sets of parallel leg struts that double as cargo cages, plus a top platform for bags, baskets, and gear. Take a closer look here...The post The Veloci Cage Wednesday Front Rack Has Built-In Cargo Space appeared first on BIKEPACKING.com.

The jury might be out on whether hes the greatest of all time, but few would argue that Tadej Pogaar isnt one of the most captivating cyclists to watch. His long distance attacks and super-human efforts, which appear to leave his competitors wheezing, often beg the question, how on earth is he doing that? Thats the spirit Met aims to capture with its new collection of limited-edition Tadej Pogaar helmets, released today. Pogaar and Met, which provides helmets to his UAE Team Emirates XRG squad, have collaborated on special versions of the Manta aero helmet and the Trenta 3K Carbon. The helmets are said to be inspired by Pogaar. Met The two helmets feature an iridescent finish, which is described as ethereal as the rider who inspired it and leaning into the idea of the ultimate flow the dream state where effort fades yet speed increases. A more relatable experience might be for effort to fade and speed to drop with it, but theres no denying the appeal of Mets flight of fancy. After all, who doesnt want days when "performance comes easy? Youre probably better off spending your money on a coach than a helmet if youre after improved performance, but if these World Champion-inspired lids do appeal then the Manta costs 250 / $350 / 280 and the Trenta 3K Carbon will set you back 390 / $540 / 440. The Tadej Pogaar Met Trenta 3k. Met The Trenta 3K Carbon has a carbon shell which helps contribute to its airflow. Met Met launched the Trenta 3K Carbon last year after Pogacar was spotted using it at the 2025 Tour de France. The Venta 3K Carbon has an integrated carbon wing which is said to eliminate the need for EPS foam from the internal frame, which facilitates a "continuous internal air channel. This contributes to Mets claim that the Venta 3K Carbon is its most ventilated road helmet, but the brand has still optimised it in the wind tunnel for aero performance. The helmet has a MIPS liner and Virginia Tech awarded it a full five stars. Met launched the Manta aero helmet in 2024, and its said to be more aerodynamic than its predecessor thanks to a lower and tupe-shaped profile at the rear. Despite being an aero helmet it still features 15 vents to cool your head and keep you comfortable. The Manta also has a MIPS liner. The limited-edition Tadej Pogaar Met Manta. Met