A visit to the WTB booth at Sea Otter revealed a company that’s been hard at work developing new products. If you didn’t see our coverage of the 27.5×3.00 Bridger tire, you can check that out here.
WTB wasn’t just showing the Bridger though. They had new rims, tires, and saddles on display.
We’ve got a set of the Scraper rims in for testing now, and they’re coming OE on many of the new crop of 27.5+ bikes. WTB also showed some (slightly) less wide rims at Sea Otter like the new ASYM rims with internal widths of either 29mm or 35mm. As you probably guessed, the rims feature an asymmetrical profile. They’ll be available this August with a retail of $85/rim.
The Riddler (named after pro racer Nathan Riddle) is part of the recent wave of semi-slick tires that are becoming a common sight on the rear wheels of enduro race bikes. Small, tightly-spaced center knobs with aggressive side lugs create a tire that will roll fast, but also still rail the turns. Nathan was actually running this tire front and rear on his bike for the Sea Otter enduro because of the dry and hard-packed course. Also, because he’s a pro. I don’t think I could get away with that.
The RIddler will be available in a 27.5×2.40 size, with two casing options. The TCS Light version comes in at 868g and retails for $67.95. A TCS Tough version that uses two layers of casing is also available for really rough tracks. The Tough weighs 1108g and retails for $76.95. Both options are available now.
And finally, WTB had the new SL8 saddle on display. It’s available in three levels: Pro, Team, and Carbon. Prices range from $119.95 for the Pro to $249.95 for the Carbon. The Carbon (pictured) comes in at a silly-light 146g! Seriously, it’s crazy how light it feels in your hand. You will need a seat post that is compatible with the oval 7mm X 9mm carbon rails though. There is no rider weight limit on the SL8.
