MTB News Mix is a weekly update of all things mountain biking where we cover new products, pro race results, trail news, and more.
Sklar Bikes launches the Sweet Spot
Sklar Bikes of Bozeman, MT are distinct. The shaply, rounded top-tube and adventurous frame design on plus-size knobbies are usually a giveaway to Adam Sklar’s designs. The Sweet Spot is a new addition for the boutique brand. The Sweet Spot is a 4130 chromoly steel frame with new-age geometry and a 130mm fork (size S) or a 150mm fork (sizes M,L).
Although it’s a very original bike, the Sweet Spot still has the signature of a modern mountain bike, like a Boost 148mm rear, 180mm post mount rear brakes, room for three water bottles (two inside the frame), and 29×2.8″ tires. Build prices are as follows:
- Frame Only – $2,850
- Frame, Chris King or White Industries headset,
Rockshox Pike – $3,900< - Eagle GX/Alloy Complete Bike – $7,430
- Eagle X01/ENVE Complete Bike – $9,950
- AXS XX1/ENVE Complete Bike – $11,110
German brand Silverback compliments carbon XC bike with aluminum version
Silverback recently released the Stratos SBC CF, a top-end carbon XC bike. Now, for riders who want something less expensive, the Stratos AL5.0 is available.
The Stratos AL5.0 is a single-pivot suspension design made of 6061 alloy, with 120mm of travel front and rear on 29-inch wheels. Silverback makes the XC bike quite progressive with a 74-deg. seat angle, and a 67.5-deg. head angle. Pricing starts at a very reasonable 1,500 euros (about $1675USD).
7mesh Anything Panel expands jersey cargo capacity
BC-based 7mesh apparel company has a new take on the traditional three-panel jersey back pocket system. Their new Anything Panel system starts with the traditional three pocket jersey and adds side-accessible, zippered pockets that run behind the three pockets.
Find out more information on 7mesh products via their website.
Zoic adds animal prints and new sizing for 2020 line
Mountain bike apparel brand Zoic upped the fun level on their new prints and patterns for 2020. Cheetah prints might not make everyone faster, but it’ll probably make things more fun and that’s just as important sometimes. Zoic has also expanded their women’s sizing to match the men’s offerings.
“Because we want everyone to feel welcome on the trail, we created the Women’s Curves Collection in plus sizes 1X-3X, a complement to our men’s sizing which also runs up to 3X,” says Zoic.
Zoic continues to offer one of the widest line-ups of chamois and bibs, including liners and a full apparel line up for kids.
Audi Power of Four MTB race kicks off in Aspen Aug. 17
The Audi Power of Four Series is an endurance race that takes place along singletrack in the mountains surrounding Aspen and Snowmass, CO. The event is held in conjunction with the Snowmass Bike Festival which also includes the Big Mountain Enduro Finals.
The Power of Four race will be a 25-mile loop starting and finishing in Snowmass that riders circle twice. Riders can also choose a single lap, 25-mile route, or race the full, two-lap course as a team of two. Each 25-mile lap gains about 5,000ft in elevation. There is a $2,500 prize purse divided amongst the top three males and females. Entrants receive a Helly Hansen technical shirt, post-race meal and beer, a finisher gift, and meal. Find out more on the website.
MET Terranova helmet has more for less
MET helmets have a new piece of protection dubbed the Terranova after the success of their last helmet, the Roam. The Terranova is a mountain bike helmet with increased coverage made for all-mountain and trail riding, an adjustable visor, and a MIPS liner for $120. Keep an eye out for the Terranova which will be available in September.
Cedric Gracia unveils custom MTB Apparel brand, Únic
Mountain bike legend Cedric Gracia may be retired from competition, but he’s still busy in the mountain bike world. Únic is a new mountain bike apparel brand that has quality gear and is easily customizable by anyone. Not only can buyers select the colors, but they can also add a name, country flag, and logos. The products are manufactured in Europe and don’t require a minimum order like many other custom MTB clothing brands. Únic makes shorts, pants, long or short sleeve jerseys, and base layers, too.
