The Loam Wolf

If you’re a rider who wants to be comfortable and efficient, this saddle is worth a look. If you can demo one, that’s a great option as everybody is different, but in our opinion, this saddle is an easy one to recommend.

The Giro Tyrant helmet is well-constructed, breathable and features advanced rotational brain protection. It balances stylish looks with good safety features, but may be a bit warm during high temperatures. With innovative style and thoughtful design, it offers good value for its price.

The Giro Switchblade helmet is lauded for its modern design, technological advancements, overall safety, and aesthetics. Its combo of comfort and robust protection are a standout, although some considerations with heat management were raised. Despite this, the functionality, form and fit of this helmet make it a worthwhile investment in mountain biking.

The Smith Forefront 2 helmet is a marked improvement on its predecessor with noticeable ventilation, comfortable fit, and solid protection. Its eyewear storage and color options are strong features although its short visor and high price can be drawbacks.

The Kali Invader Helmet is a high-quality, well-designed and lightweight helmet suitable for trail riders. It offers increased protection with minimal weight penalty, solid on-trail performance, and appealing design, making it a valuable investment for $225, despite some minor size fitting issues.

This video reviews 12 knee pads, offering evaluations on their quality, comfort, and level of protection. Brands recommended include G-Form X-2s, Fox Enduro, Liat Air Flex, Ion K Trays, Fox Launch D3O, G-Form E-Lines, and the IXS Triggers. Other brands, like POC Joint VPD System, found disfavor due to comfort and cost. The 7P Sam Hill pads were commended for aggressive riding, although noted to be stiff in cold weather. Competitive Cyclists is then thanked for their sponsorship.

The video reviews 12 knee pads and recommends different ones based on the rider's needs. The 780p Sam Hills and Endura knee pads are overall favorites, offering excellent coverage and protection. The G-Form, Fox Enduros and Leatt knee pads are recommended for lighter duty and minimal protection. The E-Line and Trigger knee pads are comfortable and offer good coverage. Competitive Cyclist is thanked for their support.

Fezzari's new Timp Peak model eMountain bike is applauded for its durable frame, reliable performance, and attractive design. It has a lifetime warranty and customizable build options making it a worthwhile value for the $4,999-$7,999 price range.

The Kali Invader helmet offers increased protection compared to a standard helmet without compromising on weight or aesthetics. While it's not suitable for the extremest of rides, it balances well between being protective and lightweight. Some issues with size fitting and minor discomfort were experienced, but these problems may not persist with the right fit.

The POC Coron Air SPIN is a high quality, well-designed helmet that offers great breathability and a comfortable fit. Its minimalist design is appreciated, and it performs well on the road; although it comes without a carrying case, which is seen as a flaw.

Bell unveiled the new Sanction 2 and Sanction 2 DLX Mips full-face helmets which are designed for young and new riders, BMX track, and those needed an added helmet. These helmets carry advanced features from previous models, highlighting Mips technology and ample vents for the riders. Sanction 2 DLX comes with extra features, weighs 1080 grams in medium size and costs $180, while the Sanction 2 weighs 1040 grams in medium size and costs $120.

Bell has launched the Sanction 2 and Sanction 2 DLX full-face helmets which draw from the Full-10 Spherical design and offer features like ample vents, sleek styling, Mips technology and antimicrobial padding. The Sanction 2 DLX comes with additional features like an adjustable visor, Fidlock® buckle system and removable pads for washing. Both models are designed for riders of all abilities and are available online and at Bell authorized retailers.

The 6D ATB-2T helmet offers top-tier safety technology and a tunable fit with long-lasting hardware and liner, but is bulkier and heavier than most alternatives with fussy strap adjustment. The helmet, priced at $229.95, may seem pricey, but reviewer emphasizes the helmet's role in maintaining safety in what is decidedly a dangerous sport outweighs the cost.

Andrew Villablanca reviewed the Yakima HoldUp EVO and BackSwing bike racks and found them to be incredibly versatile and high-quality, living up to harsh trials and variety of vehicles used for testing. The racks accommodate any bike size and type, featuring built-in locks and a swing-away system. Despite initial concerns on the use of plastic materials and dirt ingress in pivot mechanisms, the racks proved durable and efficiently functional, albeit priced at $878 total.

The Marin Rift Zone E2 proves to be a trail-ready e-bike with respectable features and quality performance for the price. The e-bike is equipped with Shimano EP801 motor, 140mm MultiTrac Suspension, 29” Wheels, and 630Wh Battery, which provides a balance between efficient pedaling and bump absorption. It ensures a good ride quality, featuring a solid build spec and handling characteristics. However, the application of Cushcore tires inserts pushes the bike more towards the Enduro category, while some devalue its playfulness, potentially making it less appealing for those looking for less weight and snappier trail eMTB.

The Yakima HoldUp EVO with BackSwing attachment is a durable, versatile rack with a design capable of handling any bike size or hub spacing. Despite some initial concerns about plastic components and issues with dirt ingress in pivot mechanisms, the rack performed excellently under harsh conditions and rough roads. Its high price point is justified by its robust build, attention to details like built-in locks, and the heavy-duty BackSwing swing-away system.

The review contains a mix of incoherent and unrelated sentences and phrases, making it difficult to extract a clear meaning or a functional rating.

The review discusses the tech aspects of the new Full 10 spherical downhill helmet by Bell. It highlights features like the spherical mips partnership for safety, the thermal exchange airflow system, and the use of an anti-microbial comfort padding. The helmet's three-layered construction, the ease of cleaning the parts, and the D-ring enclosure system are appreciated. The helmet weighs a thousand grams for medium size and 1162 grams for an extra large. Initial impressions from test riders are positive.

The Bell Super Air R helmet is light, comfortable, and well-ventilated. It is designed for riders who switch between calm and rowdier trails as it has an attachable chin bar for additional safety. While some elements like the lack of a Fidlock buckle and short length of the visor could be improved, it generally offers a high level of protection and great value overall.

The Bell Super DH MIPS helmet has improved comfort, fit and styling since previous models. It employs MIPS Spherical technology, includes features like quick-drying pad material and a breakaway camera mount, and offers great head coverage and ventilation. At $300, the price is high, but the helmet is lightweight, well-ventilated and its usability across different riding genres makes the investment attractive.

The 140/150mm Giant Trance X Advanced E+ eMTB stands out for its climbing ability and power, offering good value, but may not be ideal for aggressive descents.

The Marin Rift Zone E is a new all-terrain, electric trail bike that offers increased rear travel for longer rides, powerful Shimano STEPS drive units, option for battery upgrade, and standard CushCore inserts and Marin tire sealant in higher models. The bike, available in different models with varied specifications and price points, is expected to be launched in April/May 2023.

The review praises the Lazer Jackal KinetiCore helmet for its new KinetiCore technology, lightweight structure, and the excellent ventilation offered. It's deemed as a secure fit and highly protective but the reviewer notes visor bolts coming loose as an issue.

Trek's new Fuel EXe eMTB has impressed reviewers with its silent operation, instant drive unit engagement, and integrated technology. The bike offers reduced fatigue and increased agility compared to full fat eMTBs. Six build options are available, all featuring the TQ HPR50 drive unit and a 360Wh internal battery.

The Specialized Turbo Kenevo SL Expert is a lightweight, efficient and well-built eBike designed with excellent performance downhill, additional assistance uphill and an array of sturdy components for its built. Despite the steep price point and the debate among reviewers about the power assistance trade-off for a more playful ride, it is undeniable that the Kenevo SL delivers on durability, aesthetics and performance to match its price.

The 2023.5 Specialized Turbo Levo Pro is a commendable bike commended for its increased versatility, smooth power delivery, and fruitful battery life. It is easy to set up, performs well across all hills, and presents a potent blend of stability and playfulness. The bike is equipped with a new drivetrain; providing solid, instantaneous shifting. However, there is room for improvement with the new shift pod design for ergonomics and reachability. Despite the high cost, the Turbo Levo Pro offers high performance, with the recommendation being to select the lower priced expert model for a better value.

The Trek Fuel EXe, with its light structure and ultra quiet TQ HPR50 motor, introduces an impressive future for eBikes. Includes a seamless integration of the display and handlebar controllers. The bike's silence, even at high speed, sets it apart from other eBikes in the market. However, the range of the smaller battery may be a concern for riders consistently in Turbo mode. Price starts at $6,499.99.

According to the review, Trek's new eBike, the Fuel EXe, features a lightweight, quiet, and efficient drive unit. The bike also comes with a number of apps, a sleek design, and technology integration. It is available in six different models starting at $6,499.99. Its standout features are the instant drive unit engagement and low noise levels.

Robert Johnston's review of the Fox Dropframe helmet highlights its unique design, secure fit, and extra coverage, although he finds it less beneficial over ProFrame Full Face. He appreciates its durability, venting, and easy adjustability, despite not including rotational protection technology and its higher price.

The Fox Speedframe Pro helmet has great features like Fidlock Snap buckle, MIPS protection and removable XT2 liner pads and it offers comfortable fit, light weight and stylish design. However, it may feel a bit warm when not moving, and sweat tends to collect in the forehead pads. The helmet earned a Five-Star rating from Virginia Tech's helmet testing lab, demonstrating its high build quality and impressive safety performance. The value for money appears excellent as well, given its features and performance.

The 2022 Santa Cruz Heckler eBike sees significant updates, including increased battery size, updated suspension and geometry, and expanded shock compatibility. Featuring either a 29-inch wheeled frame or an MX option, the refreshed eBike model is lauded for its improved performance and longer duration for off-road biking.

The Santa Cruz Heckler SL eBike Light, built with a Fazua Ride 60 drive unit and a 430Wh integrated battery, is a welcome addition to Santa Cruz Bicycles' eMTB lineup. The bike strikes a versatile blend of comfort and stability and features 150mm of VPP™ suspension.

The Commencal Meta Power TR is an aggressive trail eMTB known for its stable performance on steep and rough terrains. However, its long wheelbase could limit agility in tight corners. It boasts a top-tier suspension, durable Shimano XT brakes and drivetrain, and good value for its price. Despite its high-end specs, it remains accessible with more affordable options available.

The Specialized Ambush 2 helmet provides excellent build quality, ride quality, and design, with its lightweight nature, high safety rating, and inclusive features such as glasses storage and an adjustable fit system. However, the reviewer expressed a desire for an adjustable visor. While on the higher end in terms of price, it is considered good value considering the safety, comfort, and additional features.

The Proframe RS helmet by Fox Racing presents significant advancements in design and protection, including updated MIPS rotational impact protection system, improved fit and breathability, and a redesign of the fit system. Despite minor fit quirks, it offers excellent quality with premium finish and great protection. However, at $360, it is a substantial investment.

The video reviews two very different bikes: the 79 pound Ranger e-fat bike from Cy Russia and pizzari's Tim Peak build, presented as the best value for performance ratio e-bike on the market. Range of tests including design, build and ride quality, and value were conducted. While Cy Rusher's bike performed admirably in certain conditions and seemed suited for casual, non-mountain terrain users, the pizzari outperformed in most categories being more suited for aggressive riders.

The reviews for the Fezzari Wire Peak Pro eMTB range from positive to mixed. Most commend the bike for its competitive spec, value, and good looks. It performs best on tight, snappy trails but struggles on high-speed trails and more challenging terrains. Although fun to ride, it requires extra effort to get it off the ground, and its suspension feels a bit harsh. On the whole, this bike delivers good value despite its minor weaknesses.

In this review, the Devinci DC 2020, an electric bike with innovative design and improved suspensions, showcased excellent performance in trail management, efficient braking, well-organized cockpit, and powerful battery life. Despite weighing 53 pounds, it is responsive and performs well with impressive components and frame quality in its price range, making it a highly recommended choice.

Devinci introduces E-Troy and E-Spartan, two high-performing eMTBs with versatile and durable design, featuring advanced motor, battery, and suspension technology. With agile handling, long-lasting batteries and power support for climbing segments and steep descents, these bikes offer both ride quality and design excellence. The price range from $7,599 to $8,529 depending on specifications.

The E-Troy and E-Spartan are new EMTBs from Cycles Devinci, both featuring a new durable and stiff Aluminum 6061-T6 frame, updated geometry, powerful Shimano engine and battery, advanced features and technologies ensuring a smooth and controlled ride, and a range of options in specs. Both are designed to comfortably and efficiently handle difficult terrains, climbs, and descents, providing the riders with a thrilling yet safe biking experience.

Devinci's E-Troy and E-Spartan are designed to handle tough terrains, with a powerful Shimano e-engine and a 725Wh battery. Both bikes feature a 6061-T6 aluminum frame, modern geometry, and e-mtb optimized split pivot for improved ride quality. The E-Spartan comes with a 170mm rear travel, the E-Troy, 150mm. Prices range from $7,599 to $8,529.

The 2021 Kona Remote 160DL is a stable, playful, and supple e-bike with a great suspension tune, able to smoothly handle a variety of terrains. It has an appealing design, however issues with the dropper post, small battery, and a slightly higher center of gravity were pointed out. Despite these, its performance is commendable, although the price tag of $7,300 may be a bit steep considering some of the specs.

The Bell MIPS Sixer helmet exhibits high build and design quality along with commendable performance on trails. Its well-thought-out features and design cater to both comfort and safety. However, its MIPS liner may snag long hair when removing the helmet.

The Smith Attack Mag MTB glasses offer advanced features like quick lens swaps, but their high price tag may affect their value rating.

The Bell Sixer helmet is praised for its superior features, enhanced air flow, stylish looks, and its MIPS liner. Despite the issue of the MIPS liner occasionally pulling long hair, it is the first choice for a ride, displaying an impressive balance of comfort, safety, and value.

Overall, Specialized have delivered a complete package of an ebike that is incredibly fun to ride, capable in all types of terrain and has become one of our most fought over test bikes.

For our personal riding style, as much as we like the bike, we hope Haibike can shave off ten pounds from this bike in the near future as it will certainly make it a bit livelier and easier to get off the ground.

The Pivot Shuttle is a very kick-ass machine.

The Rise to be a capable and well-rounded trail shredding mid-power eBike