Twenty6 f1.2 stemThe f1.2 stem is machined in Twenty6's Montana factory, making them one of only a handful of companies who are manufacturing their mountain bike components on U.S. shores. While not the only stem to make use of an internal wedge to clamp the steerer tube, the f1.2's is executed nicely with a twin bolt design, each tightening from the opposite side. The opposing M5 bolts should mean that each one will require less torque to attain the proper clamping force than a single, larger diameter bolt would need. The use of a wedge design makes for a smooth backside to the f1.2, a feature that will stand out to those who know the pain of catching a bare knee on a steerer clamp bolt. Four M5 bolts are used for the 31.8mm bar clamp, and the faceplate features quite a bit of unneeded material removed to shave grams. There are many different color options available - we think that our anodized urban camo looks great - and the unique look is topped off with some interesting laser etched, organic looking graphics. The f1.2 is available in a single length and rise, 50mm x 0°, that will put the stem firmly in the sights of downhillers and aggressive trail riders (
there is also a version to fit 1.5'' steerer tubes, called the f1.5) . The finished product weighs in at 185 grams on our scale, and retails for $122.99 - $135.99 USD.
www.twenty6products.com |
| Twenty6's f1.2 stem uses an internal wedge to clamp the steerer tube, making for a round backside that is less likely to tear open unprotected knees. |
 | A stem is a stem is a stem, right? Pretty much, but there is no denying that the f1.2 looks like a runway model next to most of the usual boring options out there. Installation is a touch more involved due to the wedge being free to flop about until the stem has been slid down onto the steerer, and the clamping bolt's positioning at the front of the steerer tube also means that you'll be far better off using a single hex key instead of a multi-tool to tighten them, but we wouldn't call it tricky by any means. We've used the f1.2 on a number of different bikes within the last few months and it has proven to be creak free during that time, not making a single peep or groan despite dusty conditions and many hosings. One very awkward crash managed to rotate the stem slightly, but it should be said that a number of harder impacts failed to make the stem slip at all. There is also a good argument for having the stem rotate slightly so as not to damage the bar or other components. The f1.2 isn't inexpensive, but it does stand out from the crowd, and we admire Twenty6's attention to detail. - Mike Levy |
Bontrager G4 tireBontrager didn't set out to turn tire design on its ear with their new aggressive tire option - the G4 is about as far from a paradigm shift as you can get - but rather improve upon a layout that has been shown to work well. The new G4 has been designed with dry riding mind, using ramped leading edges to its crown knobs that should have it rolling well when conditions are dusty. The tire's shoulder knobs use an alternating pattern that does vary slightly from the tire that it closely resembles, with siping done to allow the lugs to flex and conform better. Bontrager has built the G4 out of a soft and sticky compound that places outright traction ahead of longterm use, and although we've been told that it is very similar to other soft compounds out there, it feels remarkably pliable to us. Interestingly, the G4 is covered under Bontrager's '
Unconditional Performance Guarantee' that allows you to return the tire within thirty days of purchase if you're not a fan of it, taking the risk out of trying new rubber. As of right now the G4 is only available in a single 2.35" width that uses a DH worthy dual ply casing. Total weight on our scale is 1209 grams per tire. The G4 retails for $64.99 USD.
www.bontrager.com |
| The G4 may not be as large as some other downhill tires, but performance was impressive. |
| We've been spending a lot of time aboard Trek's new Session 9.9 downhill race bike that the G4 tires come as stock equipment on, and it was a bit of a surprise to see that the stock front tire is 2.35'' wide (the only width that the G4's come in at this point), smaller than what most riders would choose to go with. The G4's performed quite well, proving in our mind that a tire's compound, tread pattern and casing properties prevail over outright width. Cornering hookup was impressive, with bite that resulted in predictable traction, and the tires performed well at a number of different pressures. Although they bear an uncanny resemblance to the Minion, we felt like there was a more predictable feel to the Bontrager offering that does away with the on/off feel that the Maxxis tires can be prone to. Where they are similar, though, is the lack of sheer braking bite - they roll quickly, but the downside is less stopping power. They do receive top marks in reliability, with not a single pinch flat or failure during our time on the tires. We liked the G4's, but there are two points of contention that may deter some riders from picking them up. First, as well as they performed, many will want a wider tire for use on the front - one rider did cite a lack of confidence that could be put down to the smaller than average width. Second, the tradeoff of the G4's soft and sticky rubber that keeps it glued to the ground is its meteoric wear rate. In fact, the G4 shows wear quicker than any other soft compound tire that we've ever used. This fact likely won't matter for racers who put a priority on traction, but casual riders could be disappointed with the fast wearing compound. - Mike Levy |
O'Neal Pin-It clothingThe Pin-It kit from O'Neal is designed for all-mountain riding, but thanks to the use of tough, yet lightweight materials is capable of being used across a broad spread of riding styles. The shorts feature dual zippered vents to allow air to flow though on those hot days, as well as two zippered pockets and reinforced areas where it's needed most. A burly waist ratchet allows you to adjust the fit in incremental steps. Available colours include cyan and black, and they retail for EUR 79.90. The matching Pin-It jersey is made from a lightweight and breathable polyester, and features elbow length sleeves that are slightly longer than a standard short sleeve cut. The Pin-It jersey is available in cyan, black and a black/white combo. It retails for EUR 49.90.
www.oneal-europe.com  |
| O'Neal's Pin-It gear can do duty as a downhill or trail riding kit. |
| We've raced enduro in it, we've raced downhill in it and we've done plenty of all mountain/cross country style riding in it as well. The Pin-It kit works effectively across all situations, although we would suggest that for pure downhill the shorts perhaps lack the ultimate length and protection. However, if like us you want them as an all around gear, they are a great offering as they adapt well to being used in almost all situations. Zippered pockets are well placed and mean you can carry your phone/car keys without them driving you nuts while riding. An additional zipper on each leg opens up mesh vents to get a bit more fresh air through when the going gets really hot. As for durability, there is cordura on all the high wear areas which, despite our best to abuse them, are still looking fresh. The jersey has the stretchy overtones of a surfer's rash vest and as a result isn't quite as breathable as some tops, but the stretchy fabric proves comfortable and as with all things, this is the downside to it being that bit tougher than some other trail oriented offerings. Whilst the cyan version here is all a little 'seventies pornstar', more subtle black and white schemes are also available. A lightweight, versatile short sleeve jersey and short combo which are as comfortable on long days in the saddle as they are for hot days on the chairlift. The pockets in the shorts are welcome and well sited so that you don't notice things in there when riding, although those on the back of the jersey are a bit unnecessary and probably pander more towards true cross country riders than your typical Pinkbike reader. Look past that and these are a great set of versatile, yet tough products that prove suitable for a wide spectrum of riding styles. - Alasdair MacLennan |
