Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Interbike part one







Yesterday I headed out to the tent city in the desert known as The Dirt Demo. Every want to have your choice of hundreds of bikes to ride; Road, Mountain, Cross, City, electric assist, anything you can think of... After a couple meetings it was riding time. First up the Scott Genius with dual lock out and travel control for both the front and rear suspension. Full locked, 4" rear-full 6" front, or full 6". Carbon frame. This bike glided over everything. I found my self using the lock outs instead of changing gears in the front. If you want a cross country bike that has all mountain capabilities this is a great way to go.


Next up was the new Kona Cadabra. Great technology that changes Head tube and Seat tube Angles then firms or softens the suspension depending on pedaling forces. On the down hills and rolling ups this bike screamed and felt right at home. If you want an all mountain bike that can go up this is a great way to go. 2 bikes, same travel, one more XC and one more AM, both very capable.


Then it was on to some new technology that Spot developed last year. The Belt Drive. A number or companies including Spot, Trek, and Raleigh are coming out with bikes with the Belt drive this year and the rumor is Felt, Giant and Kona are in the works. Stronger than a chain and a better lifespan a number or bikes will be using this in the future. From the first pedal stroke all I could think was SMOOTH and QUIET. No chain noise and a feeling of immediate engagement. I think we may have to bring one in soon.
Now its off to a day of meetings, catching up with suppliers, free beer, and general bicycle madness that is interbike.




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