Highlighting their new painted-in-Italy WPNT colors inspired by classic car paintjobs, 3T almost glossed over a really big update to their core RaceMax gravel bike… an Integrale shift finally gives the bike fully internal cable routing. Sure, 3T already adopted fully internal routing on their aero road bike a couple of years ago, and then incrementally on each of their premium made-in-Italy Italia models since. But now, the more affordable standard 3T RaceMax WPNT Integrale drops the annoying toptube routing port. And it’s also available as a frameset for 1/2 the cost of the Italia edition!

3T RaceMax WPNT Integrale carbon gravel bike is integrated!

For four years, the 3T RaceMax has been 3T’s best-selling gravel bike – aerodynamic, versatile with faster and wide 700c tires or even wider 650b tires for bigger adventures, and plenty of mounts for bikepacking and adventure. Now, 3T gives the RaceMax a “fresh coat of paint” by adding it to their new WPNT program, with 5 special edition metallic & iridescent colors said to be inspired by classic cars. That “We Paint” label meaning that 3T paints the bikes themselves in Italy, letting them run more special edition colors.

At the same time, the 3T RaceMax WPNT also becomes “Integrale” like their top-tier made-in-Italy Italia edition carbon road & gravel bikes…

Why does an integrated gravel bike update matter?

The 3T Exploro has been around as an aero gravel bike since 2016. And, I’ve ridden every generation since – at least 5 or 6 different Exploros with one inelegant cable routing solution. The RaceMax platform itself, has been around for 4 years, now. I reviewed this latest bike back in the summer of 2020. And all-in-all I think it’s still one of the best, most versatile but still race-ready gravel bikes out there. Well, except for one major nit I had to pick…

The cable routing into the frame just behind the headset was simply bad. Always in the way, whether mounting devices over the stem or using any toptube bag. It was annoying enough that I wasn’t bothered when it was time to return that test bike to 3T.

And I was genuinely psyched when I first rode the made-in-Italy Exploro Extrema Italia which fixed the internal cable routing issue (even if the toptube bolts didn’t exactly seem to be in the correct spot).

Sure, it meant that the new made-in-Italy bikes were only compatible with electronic shift drivetrains. And they were a lot more expensive. But, it was so much better a solution that this was a gravel bike I would like to keep around for a bit longer.

Now, that’s no longer holding it back, I can say this made-in-Taiwan RaceMax is one of the best all-rounder gravel bikes out there. It does everything the RaceMax Italia does – the same shaping, tire sizes, component standards, and geometry – just with a frameset that costs half as much built with pre-preg carbon instead of filament winding.

2025 3T RaceMax WPNT Integrale – Pricing, options & availability

The newly integrated RaceMax WPNT is now available directly from 3T in 5 special edition paint colors: Camo gray, Indaco blue, Mara blue, Malva purple & Avorio off-white. And it is offered both as a 2975€ frameset, or a complete bike build for 6150€ with a new GRX Di2 2x build and aero carbon 3T Discus 40/30 wheels. Either way featuring the 3T Fango RaceMax Integrale compact crown fork & Apto Integrale Stealth stem to route all cables (electronic shift only) through the headet.

Both new iterations of the new 3T RaceMax WPNT Integrale are painted and built-to-order, with a 6-8 week lead time.

3T.bike

The post 3T RaceMax WPNT Finally Integrates Internal Cable Routing For Popular Gravel Bike appeared first on Bikerumor.

We’ll be the first to admit it: Fueling for long events is challenging, especially if you don’t have a game plan or it’s your first event. With the rise of longer and more intense gravel races and events, proper fueling is more critical than ever. If you’ve ever questioned what and when to eat on the bike, this podcast will improve your fueling game.

A Guide to Gravel Race Fueling

This conversation isn’t just for first-timers or elite gravel grinders; it’s for everyone. I’ve often gotten my fueling strategy wrong, and I still do sometimes (and I’ve been at this for years).  Whether it was not eating enough, not eating the right food, or the dreaded “I’ll eat later” followed by a dreaded BONK and vision quest for the finish line. We can all work on our fueling for training and racing, no matter how many races we have under our belt. 

For BikeRumor Podcast Episode 103, I sat down with the Fuel Good Nutrition (formerly Rider Box) team to dispel fueling myths and clarify what a race nutrition plan can look like. 

So, should I eat as many gels as I can? No, this isn’t a laundry list of 20 gels and 50 blocks for over 250k of racing. It’s a real-food and practical look at what riders can do (and stomach) to achieve the most from their training.

From Training to Race Day

We discuss what a fueling plan looks like from the very start. Please look at the week leading up to the big event (gravel race in our scenario) and forward from there. We are tackling not only what but also how to get in the correct amount of carbs and other fuels to stay robust and fresh over your ride. 

Bottle Strategy and Pack Prep

Are you going to go bottles or pack? How many? What should I put in them? These are the big questions for a longer (hot) gravel event. The last thing you want as an athlete during an event is dehydration. It affects not only your ability to perform but also your mental capacity.

Do you know what kind of sweater you are? Are you someone who needs more sodium or electrolytes? We discuss sweat rate and how to find your sweat type. Whether you jump on the scale pre and post-ride or check your rate with the NIX biosensor – knowing what you need to replenish is vital.

Post Gravel Race Recovery

After the race, you need to replenish, recover, and rebuild. We discuss re-fueling, recovery meals, drinks, and strategies so you can be stronger in the next race.

Learn more about FuelGoods.com

The post Podcast #103: A Guide to Practical Gravel Race Nutrition appeared first on Bikerumor.

This guide is for those of us who ride all the things, or are just getting into the sport and haven’t quite found our tribe yet, some basics are loved by anyone who’s pedaling two wheels for fun or exercise.

Here are our top gift ideas for the cyclist (or cyclists!) in your circle, from budget stocking stuffers to roll-up-the-garage-door surprises at every price point…

REI is Linking Together a Bikepacking Bag Range

A good frame bag is a must-have for riders who love long-haul adventuring and bikepacking, or for commuters and everyday riders who want to keep weight off of their backs and have a little more space to carry essentials.

The REI Co-op Link Frame Bag provides a spacious, weather-resistant storage option that fills up the main triangle of a bike.

The bag comes in 5.25-liter, 9-liter, or 12-liter options, and can hold up to 10 pounds of gear.

The Link frame bag is composed of a puncture- and scratch-resistant nylon shell and polyester lining that makes the bag tough enough to handle the toughest conditions.

It also features a nonfluorinated durable water repellent that helps water bead up and roll off the surface of the bag, rather than soaking all your stuff.

The bag includes a 1.25-liter zipper pouch that nestles into the bottom of the bag, and a stuff sack to help keep things organized.

The bag sells for an MSRP of $80.

Sponsored Placement

Nite Ize

The Nite Ize Squeeze Rotating Smartphone Bar Mount provides a simple, yet elegant solution to mounting just about any phone to the bars or stem of a bike. 

The Squeeze mount offers a tool-free strap attachment system that allows for lightning-fast installation and removal without the headache of having to fiddle with tiny bolts or slim rubber bands that are a chore to unhook. 

The mount fits any smartphone ranging from 2.3 to 3.6 inches in width. 

In addition to providing a secure and reliable hold on road, gravel, or even trail, the Squeeze mount also features unique 360-degree rotation to allow users to easily switch from portrait to landscape orientation.

The Squeeze mount is available in black or white for an MSRP of $26.

Sponsored Placement

Lectric Bikes

For those looking to put a little more power in their ride, there’s never been a better time to get your hands on an e-bike.

The Lectric XPress 750 e-bike makes commuting zippy and fun with a 750w rear-hub motor that offers 85 Nm of torque, which is more than enough power to effortlessly cruise up urban hills and bike paths.

The XPress 750 has a top assisted speed of 28 mph and a range of up to 60 miles. Other features include a color LCD display, torque sensor, and a suspension fork with 80mm of travel that makes the bike comfortable and extremely user-friendly.

The Lectric XPress 750 is currently on-sale for $1,299 in either step-over or step-through models. Plus, now through December 31 shoppers will receive $365 in free accessories with the purchase of an XPress 750.

Sponsored Placement

Best Cycling Gifts Under $25

Ornot MacGyver Strap ($8, available at Ornot) this versatile strap may seem simple and not very flashy. But what it lacks in the bling department it makes up for in the versatile market. Is the ride warming up? Strap your jacket to the frame. Don’t need your gloves anymore? Strap them to your bike. Carry an extra tube, your snacks, a banana, you name it, this strap will come in handy, Ornot.

Every cyclist needs a multi-tool along for the ride, and the Park Tool IB-2 ($19, available at REI and Competitive Cyclist) has most of what you’ll need in a tiny, lightweight package that fits in a saddlebag, jersey pocket, or even the tiny side pockets on some hydration pack waistbands. It’s a great starter tool or a perfect replacement for the weight weenie. (Check out all our favorite mini-tools here)

Chamois Butt’r may be the original anti-chafe cream (or at least the best known), but it wasn’t until they introduced their Coconut Oil & Shea Butter formula ($17.99, available at Amazon) that it became one of our favorites. Along with a good pair of padded shorts, a good chamois cream will improve rider comfort, especially if you’re not used to spending much time on a saddle. (Check out all our favorite chamois creams here)

Full disclosure here, the all-new Biking for Dummies book ($15, Amazon) was written by Bikerumor founder Tyler Benedict and co-edited by EIC Zach Overholt. As such, the book makes our technical expertise fun and approachable to the beginner cyclist but keeps plenty of interesting tidbits for enthusiasts, too. With an overview of every type of bike and every category of riding, plus detailed explanations of how all the latest components and technology works, it’s the perfect all-in-one summary of everything bike! If you have friends and family just getting into cycling, it makes a great gift to get them up to speed quickly.

Best Gifts For Cyclists Under $50

The Topeak SmartGauge D2 ($32.99, available at Amazon) digital tire pressure gauge does a bit more than just check the air in your bike tires, it’ll also check your suspension fork and shock (up to 250psi at least, so heavier riders might find it doesn’t quite go high enough on some rear shocks). It works with both Presta and Schrader valves, rotates to keep the screen in view, and has a pressure release valve to help you dial in your setup.

No matter what type of cyclist you’re buying for, they all have aches and pains. That’s why the KT Health Ice Sleeve ($29.99) is one of the best gifts for cyclists. We use ours a lot, and we’re convinced it’s resulted in more time on the bike with less pain. Unlike a traditional ice pack or bag of frozen peas, the Ice Sleeve is made from a soft, flexible fabric filled with a semi-solid gel that won’t ever leak. Not only does it stay in place so you can still move around the house, but it also provides gentle compression to help reduce swelling. Available in three sizes for use on knees, elbows, arms, legs, and other areas if you get creative.

The Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight .7 ($33 at REI) is a compact first aid kit in a waterproof pouch that fits in a jersey pocket. This means it’ll fit in a hip pack, hydration pack, or glove box just fine, too. We take one with us on almost every ride, and there’s a bit extra room to customize it with whatever meds or little additions you want to add.

Ergon GE1 Evo Factory ($39.95, available at Ergon) Most grips that boast relief from hand numbness, often end up feeling too vague and squishy, leaving the rider feeling less in control. The GE1 Evo Factory grips manage to accomplish the real job of offering relief from hand discomfort. Plus they offer great damping that doesn’t leave you feeling disconnected from the trail.

For $40, the Ergon GE1 Evo Factory grip is a low-cost, upgrade for your bike that will yield very noticeable differences in your ride feel and hand comfort.

Rapha Racing Books

Unsure about what to get the roadie in your life? Are they too particular (like all roadies), and you don’t want to buy them the wrong gels or kits? Check out Rapha’s newly released coffee table books. They are the perfect addition to any roadies training den or living room.

Kings of Pain ($55) is a hard-back book filled with beautiful (to cyclists) photos of the sport’s most iconic days. It is also packed with short stories and information to engage even the most tangential cycling fan. 

The Extra Mile ($45) is another highly recommended book by Rapha. It covers the start and progression of the brand through the years, what influenced it, what events it held, and everything in between.

Also, you should buy your favorite cyclist a liter of Stan’s No Tubes Race Day Tubeless Sealant ($44 at Stan’s). Pretty much every serious bike rider has gone tubeless for all the right reasons over the past decade or so. But most of us forget that we have to actually refresh the sealant in our tires at least every year. Many new tubeless sealants have come and gone, but Stan’s was really the original. And you’d still be hard-pressed to find a better and more universally appreciated sealant than their Race Day formula. This is a super practical one, like finding new merino socks under the tree. But we’re all adults, right? And this is a gift all of us would be happy to unwrap.

Bicycle Gifts under $100

The Muc-Off 8-in-1 Bicycle Cleaning Kit ($80, available at REI) gets you all of the essential brushes to clean every part of your bike, plus a spray-on cleaner that gently releases grime from your chain or road spray. We like this because it lets us add whatever degreaser and chain lube we like, and it’s half the price of their bigger kit while still giving you all the right brushes.

We are firm believers that every bike should be equipped with a bell to help stay safe by being heard. The Spurcycle Original Bell ($59 at REI) is not only our favorite, but it is a real thing of beauty. It can be heard pretty far away with its distinctive “ring”. It’s a sharp but pleasant ring that we’ve witnessed penetrate trail users’ headphones. These are precision-built in the USA for a lifetime of bell ringing. Comes with the ability to swap from a handlebar with a 2.22 diameter, to a bar with a 31.8 diameter.

If your favorite cyclist has been dropping hint that they need more hydration, the Camelbak Hydrobak Light 50oz ($65) could be a good place to start. The minimalist hydration pack includes a 1.5L (50oz) Crux reservoir with a Quicklink disconnect hose and an Air Support Light back panel with ventilated harness straps. There’s also a secure zippered pocket for essentials and the ability to carry a helmet, spare tube, and a light.

Regardless of what type of cyclist you’re buying for, there are times when we’ll skip the full Spandex kit but we still want some padding. Whether it’s for a long spin around town or a casual ride with friends. The Club Ride Woodchuck (Men’s, $60 available at Club Ride Apparel) and Montcham (Women’s, $60 available at Club Ride Apparel) are super comfortable under regular shorts (or even jeans), with just enough compression to support muscles on longer, harder rides, too. They’re great under MTB baggies, too!

Don’t forget your Local Bike Shop! In fact, any of this stuff you can find locally should be bought locally. And let’s face it, there’s always going to be some repair we don’t wanna do ourselves or some part we need in a pinch. Buying local and supporting your favorite bike shop means they’ll be around when you need them! Grab a Gift Certificate to your cyclist’s favorite shop so they can get exactly what they need when they need it!

Best Cycling Gifts under $250

Sure, you can get cheaper floor pumps, but few if any will outlast a Silca. In fact, chances are this will get passed down to the next generation of cyclists from its original owner.  The Silca Pista Plus Floor Pump ($200, available at REI) is a do-it-all pump with its special Presta valve chuck that makes it quick and easy to inflate any bike you’ve got. And it’s fully rebuildable, so it won’t end up in the landfill if something does break.

Technically, this combines two under $100 gifts to save a bit of cash as one Knog Blinder 1300 & Blinder R-150 Rear Bike Light Set ($150 direct from Knog) because cyclists need to see AND be seen. So, while each is solid on its own, this combo is even better together. The USB-C rechargeable Blinder 1300 headlight is like a tiny super-powered flashlight that you can strap around a handlebar, clip to a helmet, or hang under your out-front GPS mount. It’s bright enough for extending your road, gravel, or most mountain biking in the winter months, and snaps securely on & off the bike in a second. The Blinder R-150 taillight is simply bright and easy to loop around a seatpost, and has a USB-A plug built into its mount so you never need a cable to keep its battery topped off. Simple bright lights mean your favorite cyclist doesn’t have to stop riding just because Daylight Savings is back.

Theragun Mini

If you’re looking for the perfect gear bag companion for the rider you list, the Theragun Mini is it. Its small size and lightweight build make throwing in any race-day bag super easy. The updated Theragun Mini is 20% smaller than the previous one and has three settings to loosen up your muscles (lower back especially) pre- or post-ride.

Since incorporating the Theragun Mini into my pre-race warm-up, I’ve noticed less back pain and shoulder tightness during the race. It provides a slight “wake-up” to the muscles without overstaying its welcome. The $199 price tag is enough to make it a premium gift, but if you’re lucky, you can find refurbished ones on the TheraBody site for $140. Plus, it has an excellent case for falls, drops, and mishaps. My Theragun Mini has hit the pavement more than I can count, and it’s always good to go when needed. 

Best Cycling Gifts over $250

Every cyclist should have a good work stand, and if you’re working on heavy e-bikes (see below), you’ll need a heavy-duty work stand ($495 ). The new Feedback Sports Pro Mechanic HD Bike Repair Stand ($495 at REI) is a burlier version of their impressive work stands that’s meant to handle ebike heft. Even if you’re not working on ebikes, heavier bikes like long travel mountain bikes, commuter bikes, and anything else that isn’t light weight will benefit from the bigger tubes.

Whether your favorite cyclist gets lost on purpose or by accident, make sure they can always make their way back with the wahoo ELEMNT ROAM V2 GPS bike computer ($400 at REI). The smart navigation features are easy to use, which is wahoo’s calling card – no need to spend hours learning how to use your GPS, just get on and go. The color screen has just enough color to call out important information, but it’s still easy to see in bright sunlight and the battery lasts long enough for all but the longest adventures.

The post Best Gifts For Cyclists: What to Get Your Favorite Bike Rider appeared first on Bikerumor.

Is Manitou trying to reinvent the mountain bike again, more than 30 years later with this FS II Future MTB project?

Honestly no. Sure, Manitou was one of the pioneers of full-suspension mountain bikes back in the early 90s. But they are fully aware that suspension design has advanced far beyond simply strapping a second suspension fork to the back of any frame to get rear-wheel travel. Yet that doesn’t mean that it wouldn’t be fun to see what a more modern adaptation of their first full-suspension mountain bike would look like updated with some much more modern tech…

Manitou FS II project: Updating a Mountain Bike Legend

So, Manitou’s Hayes Bicycle Group parent company decided to reach out to Swiss gravity bike builders Gamux to see what kind of modern full-suspension trail bike they could create, built around a suspension fork managing rear wheel travel like in the early days of mountain bike evolution.

Manitou figured they could work with a short-travel XC kids’ bike fork in the back, a mid-travel trail bike fork up front, a Pinon gearbox transmission at the bottom bracket, and then let Gamux create one of their wild machined aluminum frames to make it all work, with bonded in carbon structures to modulate frame stiffness as needed!

The inspiration for all this silliness – and a brief history lesson for those too young to remember – was this early Manitou FS bike from the 1990s. Probably the first suspension mountain bike fork was created by Doug Bradbury under the Manitou name in 1990. Just a year later, Bradbury had strapped a second fork onto the back to create a softail mountain bike. All controlled by elastomers.

Back when 26″ and rim V-brakes were the only thing going, and 3x drivetrains were still the rage, Manitou was pretty advanced with their original FS offering already in 1993. It was a simpler time.

So, Manitou and Gamux set to work on making a new version of the FS.

And then once they had it, to take the new Manitou FS II project bike to the next level, they sought out Gee Milner for a Dream Build…

Manitou FS II future trail bike prototype Dream Build

“In an effort to celebrate not only the origins of the brand but also an innovation that changed the face of an entire sport, Manitou has partnered with Gamux, Pinion, Gates, Schwalbe, Hayes, ProTaper and Reynolds to create a forward thinking, modern twist on the original Manitou FS bike.

The thought was that while the nostalgic motives for recreating such a bike certainly hold some value, examining the past can also be a conduit to building a better future. Employing lessons learned from such a long and storied history with the same passion and desire to innovate ensures that the future of MTB is every bit as exciting as the wild ride that has brought us to present day.

The Manitou FS II project set out to incorporate the most advanced components and solutions of tomorrow on a platform that has roots in the iconic design that kicked off the revolution of the full suspension mountain bike.”

– Hayes Performance Systems 

Why build it in the first place?

Now Manitou has assured us that their FS II project bike isn’t really meant to shake up full-suspension mountain bike design again. Modern suspension is much more nuanced than a single pivot with a semi-stock fork dropped in.

And in reality, with the bigger 29″ wheels we ride today, combined with the lower sloping toptubes to get enough standover height, I get the feeling that this isn’t exactly the smoothest way to actuate a couple of sliding fork stanchions without something else to provide stability & stiffness, side-to-side balance, or even to control kinematics in a more manageable way.

A fork at both ends

But I’m sure it was a fun project. And Manitou says the Gamux crew has actually ridden the FS II a bit, and says it rides well enough. So, at least it’s a bit more than a show bike.

The heart of the whole project is this Manitou Machete JUnit Pro fork. It apparently started out just like the same fork that’s on my kid’s 24″ hardtail. Except, Manitou & Gamux chopped the steerer tube off and CNC-machined a completely new set of lowers and a new yoke to interface with the frame. They also created an all-new slimmer arch shape, more reminiscent of that original FS from 1993.

And they gave it a custom tune and reduced the travel down to just 80mm to provide the completed bike with 125mm of single-pivot rear wheel travel – paired to 130/140mm up front.

And then, they gave the concept bike a Pinion gearbox and Gates belt drive to yield a lower center of gravity for “better handling, protected gearing, and significant reductions in unsprung weight.“

Geometry-wise, Gamux says they built it to the specs they would want for a shred-capable downcountry trail bike. So it gets a 66° headtube angle, a steep seat angle, relatively long 450mm chainstays to fit 29×2.4″ tires, and a 460mm long frame Reach.

Tech details by Gamux

Just like the rear fork was heavily modified by Gamux, they also machined the entire rest of the FS II prototype frame in their workshop in Switzerland.

While at first glance it looked like there were a few round tubes welded together with some more complex tube shapes, the whole frame is actually CNC-machined from 7075-T651 aluminum in just two parts.

The most dramatic-looking is the 1-piece chainstays swingarm with a hollowed-out truss design that’s not too dissimilar to Gamux’s current production belt-drive Sego gearbox DH race bike… or even their own still-in-development prototype trail bikes.

The main triangle is mostly made up of hollowed-out box section tubes – in-filled with bonded-in carbon tubes. Gamux explains that they developed these “Bonded Carbon Elements” with their World Cup DH race team in order to modulate frame stiffness and tune the flex of the frame individually for each rider.

The Manitou FS II project frame does get more conventional round tube shapes at the headtube and seattube – where the frame meets the tapered steerer tube of its fork and the seatpost.

It looks like the oversized headtube can accommodate an angle adjust headset if they feel the need to tweak the bike’s handling. But there’s really not much room in that stubby seatpost to fit in a dropper post. Although, maybe you could get away with a short wireless dropper for more rideability?

The Manitou team described the construction of the bike as “somewhat cost prohibitive” if anyone thought they had intentions of making it a viable product you might actually be able to buy.

Giving the project bike a somewhat realistic build

While you aren’t going to find this Manitou FS II prototype showing up on the floor of your local bike shop anytime soon, there still are a number of more realistic components that make up the complete bike build. It is a Dream Build, so there’s a lot of fancy kit here. But it’s mostly reasonably attainable bits from the Hayes Bicycle family of brands.

Up front, the key spec is the Manitou Mattoc Pro fork. Truly one of the lightest, stiffest, and most versatile trail bike forks, the thousand-dollar 29er Mattoc features 34mm stanchions and can offer travel anywhere from 110-150mm, with easy adjustability in 1cm increments.

Manitou fitted their prototype FS II project bike with a Gates CDX belt-drive pulling a Pinion C1.12 gearbox – fittingly in anodized purple to match the special edition Purple Hayes (Haze) brakes.

Besides Purple Hayes Dominion A4 brakes, there’s also a nice shiny full silver ProTaper A25 alloy bar and ATAC stem for more old-school style.

Of course, there are plenty more shiny purple graphics, and a set of carbon Reynolds Blacklable 309 Enduro wheels to finish off the dream build.

“As we reflect on the past, we not only see where we’ve come from but also catch a glimpse of the future of mountain biking. From the Manitou rear-facing arch to the standards Hayes set for brakes, and the near-universal adoption of full suspension, today’s riders—whether in XC, DH, or anything in between—are enjoying a better experience in the saddle, hands down. They ride on the technology of tomorrow, built upon lessons from the past for an incredible present.”

– Hayes Performance Systems 

ManitouMTB.com

The post Manitou FS II Future MTB Project Reimagines Mountain Bike Classic with Gamux & Pinion appeared first on Bikerumor.

Earlier this month, I was invited to Huntington Beach, California, to be introduced to Aventon’s new eCargo bike, the Abound SR (Short Rack). Unlike the existing Abound, this new version is a little taller, and sports a shorter wheelbase, a better stem and stack height, and a more comfortable handlebar.

The new Class 2 Abound SR gets Aventon’s new electronic control unit (ACU). This new ACU offers intelligent safety features, such as 4G and GPS Tracking, remote locking, and an alarm system. There are more features that I will get into below.

The new size of the bike makes it easier to ride and maneuver, as well as easier to park and store. Still a super capable eCargo bike, the Abound SR is great for hauling the kids to school, picking up groceries, commutes, and any all-around errands. It’s a real multitasker.

It has up to a 60-mile range and a top speed of 20mph that is unlockable to 25mph in the app. The new, lower step-through frame makes mounting and dismounting easier. It uses a 750W, 36V rear hub motor, and it also boasts a 440lbs payload capacity.

Abound SR Detail and Retail

Retail: $2199

• Frame: 6061 Aluminum Gravity Cast
• New display unit with 3 levels of pedal assist: Eco, Sport, Turbo
• Rear hub drive motor with 80Nm of torque
• Battery, Aventon 36V, 20Ah, 708Wh, LG 21700 cells
• Weight: 80lbs
• ACU – Aventon Control Unit ft. Smart Security + Ride Features
• Suspension seatpost
• Included rear rack, fenders, and mesh wheel guard
• Quill stem with BMX-style handlebars
• Tektro Hydraulic brakes
• Shimano Altus 8-speed drivetrain.
• Smart Lock kickstand
• Double-sided bottom bracket torque sensor
• Three colors: Haze, Stealth, and Cobalt

Initial Thoughts on the Abound SR

My wife and I have been toolin’ around on the original Abound eCargo bike for close to a year and are very happy with it. So when I attended the Aventon launch of the Abound SR, I was curious about what changes they were making to what I thought was an already great eCargo bike.

I found myself impressed with the changes that were made. These weren’t changes for the sake of change. The updates on the new Abound SR improve on the already great Abound platform, like the new and improved display.

It was nice to see. I am a fan of most of the recent bikes that Aventon has been releasing. For instance, besides the OG Unbound eCargo offering, there’s the Ramblas, which is a reasonably priced and fun eMTB that is full of features and great for someone curious about eMTBs.

The Aventon Control Unit (ACU)

The Aventon Control Unit (ACU) helps to keep you “connected and protected”. The security features include a remote lock, geofencing, and passcode. These safeguard your Abound SR giving you peace of mind. When you are riding your Abound SR you will be able to rely on GPS tracking, a 4G connection, and cloud synchronization, so you can get real-time bike stats.

ACU Features

• Peace of mind with a smart Password-protected login, smart locking kickstand and battery, alarm system, geofencing, remote shutdown, and theft protection.
• Connectivity: 4G/Bluetooth enabled (OTA Updates), GPS tracking including ride log and statistics, Abnormal event logging, and Power status reporting.
• Ride Tune allows the rider to fine-tune the feel and performance of the 3 levels of pedal assist for the ultimate personalized ride experience.
• All-new handlebar display unit with easy one-touch access to all bike features and pedal assist levels without having to take your hands off the bars.

The Abound SR will come with 4G connectivity free for the first year, but that means you will likely have to pay a subscription fee after the first year to maintain all of the features.

Riding the Abound SR

After arriving in Huntington Beach, it was time to ride the bike. It was a foggy morning at the beach, which was kind of nice.

The route featured 17 miles along the water through Huntington and Newport Beach, then onto a ferry to get across to Balboa Island, and back to the hotel via Pacific Coast Highway for lunch.

One thing I noticed right off the bat, was that the seapost was a little’ short for me. I’m only 6’1″ and I had the stock post 2mm past the “minimum insertion” line, and still needed more seatpost to get decent leg extension. The stock seatpost is a suspension post, which compounded the issue of it being too short.

That being said, a new (non-suspension) post is not a big expense. But, perhaps Aventon could offer longer stock suspension posts on their website. This could eliminate the guesswork of ordering one for the consumer. The short post didn’t stop me from having a bunch of fun on the ride.

Dual Torque Sensors

As we rode, I was loving the smoothness of the power delivery likely thanks to Aventon’s dual torque sensors. It’s not like the older hub motors found on less popular eBike brands. Those feel either on or off, lacking any sense of finesse. However, the Aventon dual torque sensors let you feel that you are in constant control.

The slightest input to the pedals gives immediate assistance. The harder your effort, the more pedal assistance the Unbound SR rewards you with. That was nice. On top of that, I found the new handlebar and stack height to be very comfortable as well.

The original Abound has one of those long, foldable/collapsable stems. The new Abound SR eliminated that type of stem. Aventon spec’d the SR with standard spacers, stem, and riser bar while still keeping the ability for the bike to fit a wide range of users.

Great Lights, Mediocre Suspension

The Abound SR’s integrated front and rear lights, worked great. The rear brake light and turn signals are a great touch for a bike of this price point. Honestly, both the brake light and turn signals probably made things a bit safer on the busy PCH while riding back to the hotel.

The front suspension fork wasn’t super great, but worked OK. I’m not sure about the longevity of the fork, but after a year, the one on our OG Abound is holding up pretty nicely. It hasn’t given any issues.

Also, in Aventon’s defense, all of the suspension forks I have ridden on cargo bikes at this price point aren’t great. I’m reviewing another eCargo bike from a competitor, and it likely uses the same unnamed 50mm travel fork, but the bike costs over twice the price of the Abound SR.

I just don’t think a suspension fork is an imperative spec for a 20″ wheeled cargo bike. I usually lock them out and ride like that. And, speaking of non-imperative specs, the suspension seatpost needs to be revisited.

When it came to the suspension post on the Abound SR, it was virtually unnoticeable to me and offered no real benefit to ride quality. I could’ve done without it as it was exacerbating the seatpost length issue.

I would find a dropper post a lot more useful in the eCargo bike space.

In Conclusion

I think Aventon is doing good work lately and isn’t the same Aventon of 2017. They are continuing to offer quality eBikes at accessible prices. The Abound that I own and the Abound SR that I reviewed, are both great bikes with great features at a great price point.

It’s a reasonable buy-in cost with less risk for people who are entertaining the practice of driving less and riding more. I see this as one of the biggest benefits of the eCargo bike.

I would highly recommend the Aboud SR to anybody ready to give the eCargo bike a go. I’ve gotten a few friends on the OG Abound, and they’re happy with their purchases.

The Aventon Abound SR is available for pre-order today and will ship come 11/25/24. Hit the link below to get yours now.

Aventon.com

The post Aventon Launches Affordable New Abound SR, Adds 4G Connectivity & GPS Tracking appeared first on Bikerumor.

Merida makes a powerful move to Bosch motors for their latest crop of ebikes, including this all-new lightweight all-mountain eOne-Sixty SL, its companion full-power enduro eOne-Eighty, and a new crop of eFloat city bikes. The 160mm travel is my preferred starting point to discuss the new Bosch powered bikes, because even though it is really an all-new ebike, it has something of an analog in Merida’s previous popular e160 platform.

But with a lighter carbon frame, a lighter and smoother pedal assist via Bosch’s SX motor, and the smallest battery that Merida has put in an eMTB yet… the new eOne-Sixty SL feels a lot more like a regular all-mountain bike. And it likely will appeal to mountain bikers turned off by the extra heft of most full-powered ebikes.

2025 Merida eOne-Sixty SL lightweight Bosch SX eMTB

The new carbon Merida eOne-Sixty SL is a full 29er Bosch SX-powered light-support eMTB, with a 400Wh internal battery, and the option for a 250Wh external range extender if you need it.

This past spring Merida lightened up their popular Shimano EP8-powered eOne-Sixty all-mountain to enduro ebike with a carbon frame, bigger battery options, and longer travel than its name would suggest. (Pretty much every ebike they’ve made until now had a Shimano motor, but it’s time for diversification and more choice.) Still, that eMTB still weighed between 22-23.6kg depending on how much money you could spend. Sure, it was light-ish, but still noticeably heavier than any real lightweight eMTBs.

This all-new ebike on the other hand weighs between 19.5-20.8kg, which is enough of a weight reduction to really start to feel more like a regular big mountain bike.

Tech details

The new Bosch SX-powered Merida eOne-Sixty SL ebike sticks with 160mm of travel front & rear. The <2kg carbon frame features a simple linkage-driven single-pivot suspension design with flex engineered into the seat stays for simplicity and light weight.

But you can also eke out another 14mm of rear wheel travel if you convert it to a mullet setup with a 27.5″ rear wheel and the frame’s flip-chip.

The eOne-Sixty SL also sports some properly progressive geometry – in 5 Agilometer sizes (XS-XL). With a 64° headtube angle, ultra-steep 78.5° seat angle, and long 489mm frame Reach on my large-size Long test ebike, it’s nearly identical to the Shimano-powered e160 carbon, just with 4mm shorter chainstays. It’s also tested and rated for Category 4 riding which is everything short of DH racing.

This eMTB is clearly trying to emulate full-on enduro bikes, but I think it really shines most as an all-mountain shredder.

At the heart of the new eOne-Sixty SL, of course, is the 55Nm Bosch Performance Line SX ebike motor, hidden behind a vented plastic cover. And neatly tucked inside the frame is a light 400Wh battery.

The charging port is on the left side of the seat tube, and you can also plug in a 1.6kg, 250Wh Bosch PowerMore range extender external battery if you need more support or have range anxiety. The range extender does replace the space for the max 750lm water bottle though, and you can’t run both at the same time.

Although, as an 85kg rider pushing this ebike hard, I could still get 1000m of climbing out of this small battery in its most powerful assist mode. So I suspect I would leave that extra battery at home for most rides, although it would be a nice addition for big days out on the ebike.

First Impressions Riding Santa Coloma de Farners

Merida says the new e160 SL “blurs the line between conventional and assisted riding“. It is no doubt an ebike when you realize how much faster you can get to the top of the hill with 250W of normalized power (and 600W peak power) boosting your legs. But when you head downhill again, the extra weight compared to a regular all-mountain or enduro bike seems to almost disappear.

This is certainly one of the more balanced-feeling and more capable-feeling ebikes I have tested. And while you genuinely have to put in some effort to get it up the mountain, going down is as playful and natural feeling as a regular mountain bike. There really doesn’t feel like there’s a lot of compromise here.

Stay tuned for a more in-depth review of how this 20.4kg Merida eOne-Sixty SL 8000 rides, how it feels, and what I see as its downsides.

2025 Merida eOne-Sixty SL – Pricing, options & availability

The new lightweight Merida eOne-Sixty SL ebike with its carbon frame, Bosch Performance SX motor & 400Wh internal battery comes in just 3 spec levels, 5 sizes, and 5 different colors depending on spec. All get proper all-mountain-to-enduro-ready specs with 4-piston brakes, 200+mm rotors, long-travel droppers on all sizes, and EXO+ Minion DHRII/Assegai tires.

The £6000 / 7000€ eOne-Sixty SL 6000 is the more “entry-level” with a Shimano Deore drivetrain and Marzocchi Z1/Bomber Air suspension at a claimed 20.8kg. (All € pricing is based on German retail pricing, and can vary throughout the EU.)

The eOne-Sixty SL 8000 that I tested moves up to a SRAM GX Eagle AXS wireless transmission and RockShox Lyrik/Super Deluxe Select+ suspension for £8000 / 9500€, at a claimed 20.3kg (20.4kg actual for my size L).

And lastly, the top-tier Merida eOne-Sixty SL 10K goes all-in at even more than 10K – selling for £11,500 / 13,500€ with a SRAM XX AXS transmission, Fox 36/Float X Factory suspension, and even new FSA SC i30 carbon wheels at a weight claim of just 19.5kg.

All three specs are available now to pick up through your local Merida dealer.

Merida-bikes.com

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If you visit this site regularly and you have groms in your life who love to ride, you’ve probably read our articles on Prevelo. We’re big fans of the work they do. Heck, Jordan’s given them the 2022 Editors’ Choice and they made the list for the 2024 Sea Otter Best of Show. They make high-quality bikes and bits for kids and are committed to great customer service as a brand. This year, the Prevelo founders have introduced a sister bike brand to round out the family bike ride with Eaglebear Bikes.

We teased about Eaglebear Bikes a bit back in April of this year at the Sea Otter Classic. But recently, I had the opportunity to drive down to their facility in Southern California to ride the bike and take a tour.

While there I got a tour of the establishment and a glimpse of what goes on behind the scenes at the HQ. Plus, some bonus activities included riding to a favorite, local lunchtime spot to enjoy some delicious burritos. Win, win!

Who Are Eaglebear Bikes?

Eaglebear Bikes is a “direct-to-consumer” bike brand. It was created as a compliment to the wildly successful Prevelo brand. Sister company Eaglebear Bikes targets the parents of the kiddos that shred the lil’ gnar on their Prevelo bikes.

Founded in 2024 by Jacob Rheuban, Jim Huth, and Owen Dickson, Eaglebear Bikes is run out of the same facility as the Prevelo brand. That’s important because Prevelo has a stellar reputation with its customers for impeccable customer service.

Being part of the same facility means that Eaglebear Bikes is part of an integrated effort with Prevelo. Using the same team to manage Eaglebear Bikes’ fulfillment, quick and thorough order customization and top-notch customer service can just about guarantee the same success that Prevelo has enjoyed.

The Eaglebear Black

Retail: $1300

Black is the first model for Eaglebear Bikes. There were a lot of ideas around how the bike was designed and spec’d. Black was designed while thinking of people who want to try cycling with the family but don’t want to spend a ton of money.

Or maybe, the cyclist whose very expensive bike is a bit overkill for the family bike ride. Or maybe someone who wants more comfort than their mountain/road bike can offer for a simple ride to get burritos.

The folks at Eaglebear spec’d the bike at the right junction of price/value. Black is a versatile, reasonably priced, well-spec’d bike to get out and ride, on just about any type of terrain.

Black comes in the “multi-use” configuration (tested), with 700x 45c wheels/tires. Or, you can get the “trail” version that comes equipped with more MTB-focused 27.5x 2.2 wheels/tires.

There is internal routing ready for a dropper post, if that’s your jam. But, also there are a boat-load of accessories that are available to get all of your bike needs covered in one place.

Accessories include colored lock-on grips, bottle cages, Mac Ride Child bike seat, front pizza rack, riser bars (tested), KS Rage dropper post, Eaglebear branded water bottle, kickstand, optional wheelset (with tires), The “Bell of Justice”, and for the “after the ride BBQ” – an Eaglebear Spatula and Tongs.

Eaglebear Black Specs

• Deore 12-speed drivetrain
• Full sealed cartridge bearings – Hubs, Headset, and Bottom Bracket
• Shimano Hydraulic Brakes
• Full Carbon Fork
• Tubeless-ready – Rims are pre-taped. Just add valves/sealant (optional add-on)
• Mounts for everything – Racks, fenders, bags, etc…
• Center Kickstand mount – If you’re putting kids on a carrier, Eaglebear recommends a double-leg stand.
• Sizing: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large

Eaglebear Black Geometry

What Do I Think of the Eaglebear Black

I’ve been testing an XL version of the Eaglebear Black with 29″ wheels and the optional riser bar. Eaglebear publishes a claimed weight of 24.4 lbs (size medium), and my XL weighs in at a smidge over 26 lbs.

I think the bike is an awesome all-around bicycle. It has mounts for everything you need to attach. For instance, there are mounts for a top tube bag, three water bottle cages, fenders, front, and rear racks, as well as fork mounts.

The fork is a full carbon fork and takes a bit of the edge out of the small chatter bumps. The bike has very comfortable geometry that offers a nice upright riding position and would be great on any terrain. The stock saddle is very comfortable. I didn’t fully love the feel of the grips, but that is easy and cheap to fix.

The Shimano Deore drivetrain is perfect for this type of bike. It is easy to adjust, and reliable, making perfect shifts all of the time. The 10-51 rear cassette provides a great amount of range. The non-branded crank gets the job done and should last a long time.

The Shimano flat-mount hydraulic brakes are a nice touch on a bike at this price point. They look fantastic and stop with authority.

In Conclusion

Overall, the bike “rides light”, rolls well, and pedals effortlessly. The geo feels nimble and predictable. It’s the perfect steed to go out with the family on a bike ride. The Eaglebear Black is a handsome bike for anyone who wants a simple “no-fuss” easy-to-use steed for everyday endeavors.

And for $1300, the Eaglebear Black isn’t priced out of reach. If you are in the market for a bicycle like this, I would highly recommend it.

All direct-purchased bikes are tuned/customized before they ship, adding options that can be installed before the bike ships, like dropper posts, racks, and upgraded bars.

For more info, to reach out for questions, or to grab an Eaglebear Black for yourself, hit the link below.

Eaglebear.com

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Now that cyclocross season is in full swing, Challenge Tire feels it’s time to get nostalgic. The Italian tire manufacturer is resurrecting the Fango tread. This limited edition offering will see only 100 tires created with the Fango tread in never-before-seen orange sidewalls. So, if you’ve been waiting patiently for the Fango to return from the dead (it is Halloween, after all). Scrape that old glue off your wheels, stretch your hands, and prepare for some tubular Fango action.

What is the Challenge Fango? 

For those who are newer to cyclocross or don’t follow tire trends as closely as this nerd, let me catch you up. The Challenge Fango is a unique tire that predates the most popular Challenge treads. It launched in 2008 and was supposed to be a direct competitor to the famous Dugast Rhino, which ruled the mud seas then. After its unveiling, the Fango was met with excitement or disdain. 

The tread is highly designed, with some touches that still make me scratch my head. But, you gotta remember, this was three years before the Limus, Baby Limus, and others. The Challenge catalog was limited, and the Fango was the mud tire. 

Fond Fango Memories

Nonetheless, many riders, like longtime cyclocross pro and owner of Cycle-Smart Adam Myerson, have fond memories of the Challenge Fango. 

“When the Fango first came out, it was designed as a mud tire, before the Limus existed, and all we had were Grifos. But it turned out to be an amazing grass tire when you needed a little extra pedaling and braking traction going straight and more aggressive side knobs for leaning over in soft, but not necessarily muddy, turns. It was the perfect tire for New England-style tracks with a typical mix of fields and woods.”

Adam Myerson

Challenge Fango Tread 

The Fango tread is unique, and there are certain instances in which the tire excels. What is Its most defining feature? That has to be Fango “scoop” in the center tread — 100%. 

In the center of the Fango tread, there is a long diamond shape with a scoop. The scoop has a rounded edge, unlike the flat, sharp edges we see on the Baby Limus and others. This scoop sheds mud but doesn’t dig into it for grip…so it’s an anomaly. 

Where Does the Fango Excel? 

Where the Fango pulls its weight is the sharp mid-cornering knobs. The outer edges are like the Grifo center tread but more of a “T” shape and vertical. A diamond staggered between the scoop for good and some mud-shedding capability. 

As far as course application for the Fango, I echo the Myerson quote above. It’s a heavy grass tire. But like all tires, every tread isn’t for everyone. I like the Baby Limus for many courses, while others might pick the Grifo or even a Dune. 

That said, tire choice can come down to personal preference and what gives you the most confidence on the course. A perfect course for the Fango would be a grass-heavy crit-style track with lots of high-speed corners.

Challenge Fango Limited Edition Details 

• Conditions: Wet/Grass
• Tire Type: Tubular Only
• Casing: Challenge Pro Edition 300 TPI
• Color: Limited Edition Orange 
• Weight: 445g
• Price: $100
• Availability: Now 

Ride Impressions: Challenge Fango Limited Edition 33mm 

When the Fango came across my desk, Challenge hit me with a wave of nostalgia. I remember when this tire came out and I was very excited about it. I was running clinchers with latex tubes and more baby powder in the tire than is customary…it was 2008, and I needed all the help I could find. The Fango was my ticket to finally becoming a mudder…

Remember When…

I haven’t looked at the Fango Tread in a while, and seeing it now, I understand why the tire has some dedicated followers. It’s a sharp tire with many points and edges (excluding the center scoop). The sharp edges are lone and have no connecting knobs or bridging to others (like the Limus), so they flex independently and offer some suppleness and conforming in the tread. 

The Challenge Pro Edition casing has a limited edition orange sidewall. Challenge tires usually arrive in Red (Team Edition) Tan (Poly casing) or older Tan/White sidewalls that are years past Team Edition “S” (soft) tires. The orange (or Pumpkin Spice, as I’ve been calling it) colored side wall sticks out and looks fantastic amongst the turning leaves. It also stands out on the bike, and it is guaranteed to get you some “What tires are you running?” conversation starters at the course pre-ride.

My initial thought about the tread is tire wear and how quickly those sharp knobs will dull on the pavement, but like we said – this is a grass/mud tire. It shouldn’t be hitting the tarmac for long sections and only for racing.

The second chevron (after the scooped one) is where the digging happens and where the grip and braking traction come from. It’s also a hollow knob and looks like a circumflex (caret) symbol with flexible lines that will move while under pedaling or braking force.

On the Cyclocross Course

I mounted the Fango Limited Edition to a set of Bontrager RSL alloy wheels (which they aren’t making anymore?). They glued up nicely, and I didn’t do much tire truing after the fact. 

On the course (a grass-heavy chosen track), the Fangos were great. I wasn’t hitting every corner at race speed, but I could see that the tire had a place, and that place was wet (and early morning dew) grass. When pushing the speed, the Fango slides slightly and hooks up in very damp corners. In dry grass and damp dirt corners, the Fango grips and has enough purchase on the ground that you can sprint out of the turns with no slipping repercussions.  

On wide open, soggy, thick grass, there is no slippage or burning out; it’s all grip. The Fango is slightly squirmy while cornering on the pavement, but nothing over what most mud tires feel like. 

I didn’t have a chance to ride them in full-on natural mud (we’ve only had these for a hot second), but there is a quick point where they grip and then become slicks. Depending on the mud style (slick over hard, peanut butter, or mud soup), the Fango would perform the best in slick over hard. 

Would you Race the Fango? 

Yes, but. For cyclocross, part of the fun (and annoyance) is the equipment and piles of wheels and tires. Mounting and allocating a wheelset only for the Fango tread would be tough. If I had endless wheels, rotors, and cassettes all the same, ready to rock like a professional Belgian cycling outfit – yes, 100%. I would be happy to have them in my tire quiver. But that’s not the case. I know my treads and what I like, and the Grifo and Baby Limus play better with my mountain bike style of bike driving and steering. 

That said, many riders feel the Fango is THE tread for them. That’s why there are so many tire options and combos. 

To those riders (and I know many), I say, “Get them while you can!” as this is a limited edition run and might be the last time you see the Fango. 

Challengetires.com

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The development of eMTBs has already seen an interesting evolution. At first, it was a race to offer the most powerful bikes with the biggest batteries, as riders experienced the joy of effortless climbing and extended rides. However, it didn’t take long for some companies to start producing eMTBs with less power and less weight.

Pivot’s 2025 Shuttle LT is a full-powered eMTB, but its complete weight is low enough that it almost winds up in the ‘mid’ or ‘lite’ eMTB classes. While its Bosch motor tops out at 600W output, it does produce 85Nm of torque which matches some heavier eMTBs. The Shuttle LT also carries a 750Wh battery, so it’s not sacrificing capacity to keep its weight down.

Built for gnarly descents and all-day rides, the new Shuttle LT is a 160/170mm eMTB with a carbon frame, modern geometry, and compatibility for MX or 29” wheels.

Frame Features and Key Specs:

The Shuttle LT is basically a class 1 motor-assisted version of Pivot’s Firebird. It is a long-travel, enduro-inspired eMTB. The Shuttle LT’s frames are full carbon only, and custom carbon layups were designed to ensure it offers a similar ride feel to Pivot’s Firebird and Switchblade MTBs.

The frames are built using Pivot’s hollow core internal molding process, which they say keeps weight to a minimum. The Shuttle LT Team model weighs 49.25 lbs, which is impressive for a bike with a 750Wh battery.

The Shuttle LT offers 160mms of rear travel driven by a DW link suspension linkage. Pivot tuned the linkage to provide the ideal amount of anti-squat that harnesses the drive system’s power output and ensures solid traction. Pivot says their progressive linkage works well with either coil or air shocks.

All models of the Shuttle LT come with 170mm forks – either Performance or Factory level Fox 38s depending on model. If you want even more squish up front, this bike can run a 180mm single crown fork.

The new Shuttle LTs all come stock on MX wheels, but they are convertible to 29” wheels. A flip-chip at the top of the seatstays adapts the frame to either rear wheel size, and offers High/Low settings with a 29” rear wheel. Only the High setting is intended for MX wheel setups.

Pivot says going with a vertical shock layout allows them to design a more compact frame that maximizes stiffness and minimizes weight. This also lets them keep standover height low, and leaves ample room for a full-sized water bottle on all frame sizes.

Water bottle/accessory mounts are included on the underside of the Shuttle LT’s top tubes and on top of the down tubes. Pivot partnered with Topeak to produce a line of Dock multi-tools that attach to standard bottle mounts via a carrying case that keeps them clean.

Fitments:

Small frames come with 150mm dropper posts, and M-XL sizes come with 150-170mm posts (Ride model) or 175mm/Medium or Large and 200mm/XL (Pro and Team models). Maximum insertion depths are as follows: S – 245mm, M – 270mm, L – 310mm, XL – 348mm. The frames accept 31.6mm posts.

An upper chain guide is included on all Shuttle LTs, but there are no ISCG tabs. Pivot noted the bike’s skidplate sits lower than the chainring so you don’t have to worry about bashing your ring.

The Shuttle LT uses a Super Boost Plus 12x157mm rear axle, which provides rear tire clearance for 27.5×2.6” or most 29×2.5” tires. The frame features UDH-compatible dropouts, and a rear post mount for 203mm brake rotors.

Final details include internal cable routing through the front and rear triangles, a chainstay/seatstay guard, and a lower down tube guard.

Drive System:

All models of the 2025 Shuttle LT come equipped with Bosch’s Performance CX Race Limited Edition motor. This motor has a 600W max output, and maxes out at 85Nm torque. The Shuttle LTs come configured with four assist levels: Sport, eMTB Shortcrank, Turbo, and Race.

If you’re thinking a 600W motor doesn’t sound particularly impressive compared to other eMTBs that offer more, keep in mind the Shuttle LT is considerably lighter than most full-powered eMTBs. I recently rode the Devinci E-Troy Lite, which has a 600W output with just 55Nm of torque, and at 44.5lbs it easily produced ample power.  

Assist power is supplied by a Bosch PowerTube 750Wh battery, but the bike’s capacity is expandable to 1000Wh with Bosch’s PowerMore range extender. The main battery is removable, but it requires the removal of the motor and charging port. Fully charging the battery takes 3.5-5 hours.

The Shuttle LT uses Bosch’s top tube-mounted display unit to show your battery life and assist level. At the handlebar, Bosch’s mini remote provides the necessary controls in a very compact package.

The Bosch ebike flow app allows for further drive system customization, but in this case, Pivot actually worked with Bosch to create a custom tuning app specific to the Shuttle LT.

Geometry:

At a glance, Pivot has given the Shuttle LT’s generous reach numbers, mid-length chainstays, slack steering angles, and fairly steep seat mast angles. Pivot said they kept standover heights low, and the above chart reveals they definitely did. Frame sizes S/M/L/XL are available, which should fit riders from 5’3” to 6’7” or taller.

If you choose to run a 29” rear wheel, the geo chart below shows all the numbers for the High and Low geometry positions. Please note both sides of the chart are labelled as Low but the figures on the right are actually for the High position.  

Model Lineup:

The new Shuttle LT will be available in three complete builds; Team, Pro, and Ride. Pivot also offers buyers the chance to add Fox’s Live Valve Neo coil shock for an additional $1500 (on Pro and Team builds). For all models, buyers can add a Bosch PowerMore 250 range extender for an extra $500 (if purchased with a bike) or $525 if purchased separately.

You might notice the spec charts list the Shuttle AM’s front tires at 2.4” wide, and the rears at 2.6” wide. While we usually see wider fronts, Pivot did this intentionally to ensure the smaller 27.5” rear wheel gets all the traction and braking response possible.

Team model – $12,999

Pro model – $10,999

Ride model – $8699

Frame color options for the 2025 Shuttle LT are Blue Scrub Jay or Willow Green.

pivotcycles.com

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Founded in 1974, Specialized has been rolling for 50 years now. To celebrate, they’ve set a global goal of getting 1 million bikes back on the road by the end of 2025. And not just Specialized bikes – any bike. To do so, Specialized has launched its Reduce, Reuse, ReSpecialized Program. On October 26th (and only on October, 26th), Specialized will celebrate its 50th anniversary by offering free repairs, tune-ups, and bike discounts in hopes of getting any brand of bike back in riding shape and back on the road.

The Reduce, Reuse, ReSpecialized Program is a global effort. It offers free minor tune-ups, helmets, and discounted repairs at participating retail locations. The program applies to any rider, with any bike, from any brand.

Specialized states the Reduce, Reuse, ReSpecialized Program is the first of its kind. It underlines their mission to move the planet forward, by using the bicycle as a powerful way to deliver mental, physical, and environmental benefits.

It’s important to point out that the scope of the free service is limited. Don’t expect a major overhaul for free, but if your bike has been hanging for years and was in good shape before it took an extended vacation, that should qualify. You also have to pay for any parts needed. If your bike does need a big repair, it seems that Specialized will be offering discount coupons to help offset the cost. Check out the fine print section below for more details.

What does Mr. Sinyard have to Say About It?

“For 50 years, we’ve been motivated by the pure love of riding and spotlighting the benefits bikes provide for our communities and health,” says Specialized Founder Mike Sinyard. “For example, we formed Outride, a non-profit committed to using cycling to support the cognitive and physical well-being of youth to underline the power of two wheels – as we look toward the future, we don’t care what kind of bike you ride, we just want you riding it. By getting one million bikes back on the road and inspiring more to ride, we can collectively reduce our carbon footprint, help our bodies, and steer toward a better future“.

What is the Impact?

To give you an idea of the impact the Reduce, Reuse, ReSpecialized program can have: according to Specialized, if the program were to get 1 million new riders on bikes in the next year, pedaling an average of only 12 miles a week it could…

• Reduce global carbon emissions by 438 million kilograms of CO2
• Burn 25 billion calories
• Reduce screen time by 66.6 million hours
• equal the C02 reduction of planting 7,242,368 million new trees

That’s pretty amazing. I guess bicycles really could save the world… if we let them.

For more information about Reduce, Reuse, and ReSpecialized events including repair info, participating U.S. retail partner locations, and what will happen on October 26th, visit here.

The Fine Print: Terms and Conditions

The Reduce, Reuse, ReSpecialized program (ReSpecializedProgram) is available at participating Specialized Retailers and will take place October 26, 2024, only. The ReSpecialized Program is limited to select services, which may or may not include flat tire repair, minor brake and shifting adjustment and repair, component and lubrication, and other similar minor repairs required to service the bicycle and as determined by the participating Specialized Retailer. While there is no cost to the owner of the bicycle (the rider) for the select services offered under the ReSpecialized Program, the Rider is responsible for the cost of parts, which can be purchased at the participating Specialized Retailer. For services and repairs not covered under the ReSpecialized Program, such as minor and major tune-ups and replacement of cables or other componentry, the Rider is able to schedule the service with the participating Specialized Retailer. The Rider agrees to pay for the services and repairs rendered, as well as any parts required for the service and repair provided. Each participating Specialized Retailer reserves the right to determine what services and repairs are offered under the ReSpecialized Program, as well as services and repairs that are beyond the scope of the ReSpecialized program.

Specialized.com

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