www.pointoneracing.com

(Sorry for the sniffle, it was windy and a bit cold in Pacifica.)

The Quick: The Good: 137g w/o top cap bolt. OMG that is lightweight! Stiff and strong. Beautiful, slick craftsmanship, precise engineering. No top cap. Super narrow back to save the knees. #4 wrench for all bolts.   The Bad: No top cap? Have to cut steerer tube to fit. Don't loose, damage, flanged top cap bolt. Normal one will cause damage. Price, ($119.00) for some.

 

Review: Point One Split-Second 50mm Stem $119

Point One, a small start up component company out of NorCal, has decided to go straight after, and frankly out do, the top product manufacturer in the stem market, Thomson.

 

I had never heard of this company until Sea Otter. A friend showed me two stems that he was going to be using that year. FYI - this friend won semi-pro DH 2008. No slouch of a rider, but he is a lighter guy. Can't quite put the force down on the stem for testing. That's where I come in. I was especially interested in testing this stem when he told me it was 50gram lighter than a Thomson Elite X4. You had to think for a minute, where did they cut weight? Thomson makes one of the lightest DH stems out there. These guys are lighter, and they are just as strong? Let me try that!

 

When I got the stem in the mail, held it in my hand, comparing the Thomson Elite X4 in my other hand, I could tell right away the Split-Second was noticeably lighter. On the scale is came out at 137grams w/o top cap bolt. Adding the bolt adds 5.5grams. The Thomson 50mm Elite X4, w/o top cap and bolt 178grams, add a Chris King top cap and it comes out to 188grams. This Split-Second stem is a full 40-50grams lighter. I am well aware that this fact doesn't rock everyones boat, but for those wanting to make the lightest race bike you can, and especially take some weight off the front end, this is the stem for you. Point One shaved a ton of weight by hollowing out the inside of the stem as much as possible. To make the stem strong enough its design is noticeably tall. Five or so millimeters taller then my Thomson. Which at first irked me, but after a week, I could not have cared less. And bar height, rise, is not effected.

 

(click on images for bigger versions)

One quickly notices that this stem is a bit different, there is no place for the steerer tube to come through. No top cap? It is all supposed to fit neatly inside the stem. I was a little distraught at first over having to cut my steerer tube shorter. If this turns you away right off the bat, well, Point One isn't try to sell it to you then. This is race oriented, lightweight, cut your steerer tube! We're shaving grams off here people! So, the no way to keep your steerer tube length long didn't really bother me too much after I got everything cut and set up. I did have some question as to how short to cut the steerer tube. It would be nice if Point One put a little marking line on the outside of the stem so one knew what the correct length should be from the top of the last spacer. If it is too long, the stem can't clamp down and you'll have a loose headset.

 

I have run this stem now for a couple weeks on both a single crown and a double fork. I noticed no flex or bend in the stem when switching from the one to the other. The steering feels just as responsive as when the Thomson was on. The stem's pinch bolts are also very well thought out. It uses a number 4 for all bolts, which are very beefy, well done bolts. Not the cheap kind that can accidentally be stripped out. The back is super narrow and on my single crown there was no need to worry about hitting my knees on it. A stem not only for DH but for dirt jumping too. My only concern at this point is durability. There is nothing evident that piqued this concern, it is just a new product, so, it hasn't had any prolonged testing. I will follow up with this review in 6 months to let you'll know if anything has gone wrong.

 

So, any bad news, or is it all sunshine and glory? Well, the only problem I had with stem, which is really just a problem with me, is that I lost the flanged bolt that comes with the stem. I used a regular bolt in its place, and the regular bolt sliced out the flanged hole when it was being tightened, several times over. So, as long as you are not an idiot like me, you wont have this problem. My fix, a small washer. Problem solved, and it is still super light. Just not as clean looking.

 

On a side note. I will get the right bolt and re-take photos. My work around pretty much screws up the slick lines of the stem.

 

Overall, this stem is absolutely great. Very light weight, very stiff and strong. You'll find this on my rides from hence forth.

Value Rating:

4 out of 5 Stars

I give it 4 stars for value because $119 is pretty darn expensive. Hopefully price will come down after it catches on.

Overall Rating:

4.5 out of 5 Stars

4.5 stars for overall, because this stem rocks! Light, stiff, strong. What more do you need? Though .5 point off because I am still somewhat undecided if cutting the steerer tube all the way down is good or not. This I think really will make or break peoples opinion of the stem. Though if you want to watch the weight, you've got the trim the fat.

 

 

A word from Po1nt:Utilizing fully CNC machined aluminum and advanced manufacturing techniques, the Split-Second Stem cannot be matched. Our uniquely designed stem not only offers superior strength, but is extremely light weight, thus creating the highest stiffness-to-weight ratio of any stem we have tested. Such impressive torsional rigidity is due to its oversized 55mm clamp width and unique split-clamp design. Proudly made in the USA.   Lengths: 50mm, 70mm, 90mm Clamp Diameters: 25.4, 31.8 Colors: Black, Limited Edition Nickel Weight: 137g (50 X 31.8), 128g (50 X 25.4) Zero degree rise. Integrated top cap design, eliminating unnecessary pieces, and thus eliminating unnecessary weight (Saving up to 20g). Stiffness Test Results Installation Guide

Buy it here: www.pointoneracing.com

 

Point One also makes a direct mount Split-Second Stem, and some sick headset spacers.

 

Click Here to see MTBR users reviews

 

Do you ever go to your LBS and check out new jerseys or shorts, and wonder why cycling clothes cost so much? Unless you pick over the clearance rack and get really lucky, one set of jersey and shorts will put you over $100 for most brands! This is where Hoss Technical Gear comes in.

Hoss is a smaller clothing company that is providing quality apparel at a more affordable price point. I have been riding in my set of Hoss Ponderosa shorts and Rustler jersey for over 3 years now, and these items really hold up well.

The Ponderosa shorts fit well, and like a proper pair of mountain biking shorts…they are baggy, but the liner and chamois fit perfect to keep everything in their proper place. There is a buckle on the belt to secure the waist line, and you can cinch them tighter and secure the belt on either side with velcro.

The chamois is comfortable but not bulky and breathes well. The outer shell feels thin to the touch, but I have not snagged or torn them. And one feature that I really like is that the area where the liner and shell met around the thigh, is seamed securely so that you get the baggy style and “feel” but the outer shell does not hang down where it could snag (like on your saddle as you transition your body positioning on the bike).

The Ponderosa is also loaded with plenty of pockets (7 total), but if you are like me, you don’t like the feeling of biking with your short pockets loaded with supplies that can bounce around while you ride. Besides, isn’t that what a hydration pack is for?

That said, one of the things I kind of miss on the Rustler jersey is the back pockets. I prefer to keep my energy bars and gels in my jersey pockets so they are easily reachable while on the bike. If you are like me, you don’t always stop and take a break on your rides, especially if you are riding alone….so stashing consumables in a hydration pack is not always an option. It would be nice to have at least one back pocket on the jersey.

Other than that, the Rustler jersey is a good, lightweight jersey ideal for summer time riding. You might find it a bit thin if you ride in colder weather. Fit is on the loose side, but not overly baggy. Breathability is good and durability is solid.
Hoss has succeeded in providing quality apparel for mountain bikers, with solid features, comfort, durability and styling. As a side note, Karl and Mark from Hoss are really good guys and Mark is very active in the Socal mountain biking scene and does a lot of work for mountain bike access and advocacy. I would strongly recommend the Hoss Ponderosa Shorts and Rustler Jersey. Hoss proves that quality does not instantly mean costly.

I give them 4.5 flamin’ chili peppers overall:

And 5+ flamin’ chili peppers for value:

To check out the complete line of Hoss apparel, check out their website:
http://www.hossmtb.com/

From the manufacturer:

Ponderosa Shorts

-price: $49.95
-sizes: sm, md, lg, xl, xxl, xxxl
-colors: black, blood, camel, chinchilla, dirt, grey, navy, olive, taupe
-also available in Camo Print version, Knicker version, and women’s version

Features and Benefits:

• 8 panel micro fiber polyester outer shell is lightweight and durable
• 6 panel polyester/Spandex liner with CoolMax for moisture management and comfort
• CoolMax sanitized chamois with multi-level technology improves comfort by relieving pressure points
• 7 pockets, including 2 side cargo pockets, 2 secure zipper pockets, 2 side hip pockets and a rear cargo style pocket
• Partial elastic waistband with extra secure belt and buckle closure
• Rear stretch panel for comfort and flexibility

Rustler Jersey

-price: $29.95
-sizes: sm, md, lg, xl, xxl
-colors: available in over a dozen colors/color combinations including camo print

Features and Benefits:

• CoolPlus fabric for moisture management
• Loose fit provides comfort for all body types
• 7” hidden zipper for comfort and temperature control
• Subtle styling

Read or Write reviews on the Hoss Ponderosa Shorts:
http://www.mtbr.com/reviews/Shorts/product_125002.shtml

Read or Write reviews on the Hoss Rustler Jersey:
http://www.mtbr.com/reviews/Jersey/product_125000.shtml

Mtbr Lights Shootout Main Page | Mtbr Lights Reviews | Mtbr Lights Forum

NiteFLUX Photon 4 Commuter and Enduro

Light	Price	Claimed Lumens	Runtime	Battery Type	Light head weight	Battery Weight	Installed Weight	Lumens per gram	Lumens per dollar
Photon Max	$375.99	800	2hrs 40min	Lithium Ion	151g	419g	517g	1.40	2.00
Photon 4 - Commuter	$136.99	270	2hrs	Lithium Ion	273g	0	313g	0.99	1.35
Photon 4 - Enduro	$203.99	270	6hrs	Lithium Ion	176g	265g	562g	0.50	0.90

Light Meter charts and comparison table available here.

NiteFLUX Photon 4 Commuter Photos

Description:

The Photon 4 Commuter and Enduro share the same light head. They differ in battery size as the Commuter has a 2 hour battery and the Enduro has a 6 hour one. The Photon 4 Commuter is a self contained system since the battery is mounted with the light head. The Enduro is a traditional wired system since the battery is quite big and needs to be mounted on the frame. Read the rest of this entry »

This is one of the most anticipated products this year. I’ve got my hands on a production model so it should be hitting the store shelves pretty soon.Why the fuss?

• it is a pedal from Look, which has a good track record of making excellent pedals
• it is a very simple, open design.
• the base model, the Look Quartz is very light and priced aggressively at $99/pair
• each pedal has 1 set of sealed bearing and a needle bearing. The more expensive Ti axle pedals have 2 sealed bearings and a needle bearing.

Claimed weight is 125 grams per pedal. Our test set (production model) came in at 130 and 129.5 grams each. In comparison, the Crank comparable Crank Brothers pedals are: Read the rest of this entry »

Dainese is an Italian company, and is a well known brand in the world of motorcycle road racing (I wear a Dainese Zen motorcycle jacket on my daily commute to work). They have been around for over 35 years, and have always been known for their excellent quality (albeit at a price). Most of their mountain biking products are oriented towards the gravity racing set and their most popular product for DH racers is their Safety Jacket.

I got the chance to test out the latest Dainese 3X Elbow Guards and 3X Knee Guards recently, and they performed superbly. I REALLY did test them out! I went down in a rock garden section, and the armor held up nicely. The pads did not slip or move one bit, and are no worse for wear, and most importantly, neither was I (see picture).

The fit (the knee and elbow guards only come in LG or MD, no SM) is good, although since I am a bit…short of femur…the medium size knee guards were a bit long, but nothing that felt uncomfortable. The cinching mechanism is a set of velcro straps (two straps on the calf and one above the knee, for leg armor….two straps on the forearm and one above the elbow, for the elbow guards). These were very easy to get on and off without having to remove your shoes or gloves.

For the Norcal summer weather, these pads were not overly hot, although I did not wear them well climbing, and only put them on during the DH portions of my trails.

I would strongly recommend this set of armor. While they are not the cheapest armor out there….protective body armor is not really something you want to cheap out on. The cost of the 3X Elbow Guards is $55.00 and the cost of the 3X Knee Guards is $79.00

I give them 5 flamin’ chili peppers overall:

And 4 flamin’ chili peppers for value:

Dainese Website:
http://www.dainese.com/

Shope the Dainese D-Store (motorcycle, ski&snowboard, mountain bike, watersports) :
https://www.dainese.com/store/usa/index.asp

From the manufacturer:

Dainese 3X Elbow Guards

Description:
- Articulated 3-plates elbow protector

Materials:
- Hard plate material:
Polypropylene
- Soft padding material:
Perforated polyethylene

SHOCK
- Composite protectors
- Soft paddings
- Homologation CE EN 1621.1

MICROCLIMA
- ultra-ventilated soft padding

ERGONOMIA
- Closing/Adjusting system: 3 adjustable straps

Dainese 3X Knee Guards

Description:
Composite ventilated protection divided into three parts for the knees, and upper shins in polypropylene and soft polyester padding inside. Adjustment strap fastening system. CE EN 1621/1 homologation.

Materials:
- Hard plate material:
Polypropylene
- Soft padding material:
Perforated polyethylene

SHOCK
- Composite protectors
- Soft paddings
- Homologation CE EN 1621.1

MICROCLIMA
- Ultra-ventilated soft padding

ERGONOMIA
- Closing/Adjusting system: 3 adjustable straps

Read or Write reviews on the 3X Elbow Guards:
http://www.mtbr.com/reviews/Pads/product_129827.shtml

Read or Write reviews on the 3X Knee Guards:
http://www.mtbr.com/reviews/Pads/product_129828.shtml

NOTE: Click on any photo for a full-sized version.

Bike LED lights have come a long way. They have come from bike tail lights to affordable commuter lights to decent trail riding lights last year. Everything about them was better than halogen or HID except for light brightness. This year though, we heard that they are now brighter than HID. Brighter than HID? This we had to see for ourselves.

Here are the light that will be reviewed in this shootout:

Light	Price	Claimed Lumens	Overall rating
Ayup bar (regular kit)	$190	280	4.25 stars
Ayup helmet	$190	280	4.25 stars
BR Lights C2.1H	$330	410	4.50 stars
BR Lights Jeni H	$299	410	4.0 stars
Cateye Tripleshot	$330	130	2.5 stars
Dinotte 200L	$249	200	5.00 stars
Dinotte 200L Dual	$349	400	5.00 stars
Dinotte 600-LI-4C	$399	600	5.00 stars
Exposure Enduro Maxx	$450	720	4.75 stars
Exposure Joystick Maxx	$250	240	5.00 stars
Exposure Race Maxx	$350	480	4.75 stars
Jet Lites Phantom Halogen	$295	675
Jet Lites Shadow Lithium	$500	675	4.50 stars
Knog 605	$399	300	2.50 stars
Levin Brightstar	$270	500	1.50 stars
Light and Motion Stella 180L	$300	180	4.50 stars
Light and Motion Vega	$175	75	3.00 stars
Light On Expedition	$409	500	4.25 stars
Lupine Betty 12	$1,185	1400	4.75 stars
Niterider Minewt.X2	$190	150	4.75 stars
Niterider Minewt.X2 Dual	$225	300	5.00 stars
Niterider Trinewt	$500	500	4.50 stars
Lupine Wilma 6	$695	830	5.00 stars
Princeton Tec Switchback 2	$299		pending
Princeton Tec Switchback 3	$389		pending
NiteFLUX VisionStick Photon-4 Commuter			pending
NiteFLUX VisionStick Photon-4 Enduro			pending
NiteFLUX Photon MAX	$400	800	4.75 stars
Trail Tech MR16 30W			pending
Nightlightning Iblaast			pending

Read the rest of this entry »

Mountain King 2.4 29er

By: Ty Brookhart

The Continental Mountain King 29 tire comes in both 2.2″ and 2.4″ widths with 29″ diameter. The casing is made from 3 ply 180tpi cloth, and it has a foldable Kevlar bead. The tread and sidewalls are Black. Maximum inflation pressure is 65psi. 735g (2.2)/ 860g (2.4).

Continental’s Mountain King 2.4 tears through wet, mucky conditions. The tire has aggressive knobs that are well spaced to shed mud and rotting leaves. In messy conditions, cornering is superb and steering is predictable. The rubber compound is soft and tacky, adhering well to wet roots. The angular knobs dig deep into loamy soils and loose gravel. These are the best wet weather 29er tire I’ve ridden and they performed well in gravel and sand as well. Read the rest of this entry »

Mtbr Lights Shootout Main Page | Mtbr Lights Reviews | Mtbr Lights Forum

NiteFLUX Photon Max
NiteFLUX Photon 4

Light	Price	Claimed Lumens	Runtime	Battery Type	Light head weight	Battery Weight	Installed Weight	Lumens per gram	Lumens per dollar
Photon Max	$400.00	800	2hrs 40min	Lithium Ion	151g	419g	517g	1.40	2.00
Photon 4 - Commuter	$200.00	270	2hrs	Lithium Ion	273g	0	273g	0.99	1.35
Photon 4 - Enduro	$300.00	270	6hrs	Lithium Ion	176g	265g	562g	0.50	0.90

Light Meter charts and comparison table available here.

Description:

Now here is a nice surprise! NiteFLUX is a company we’re not familiar with in the US. But this Australian company heard of our shootout and seemed confident that we would be impressed with what they had to offer.

The light comes in a very handy satchel bag that protects the light during transport and opens up nicely for setup. The light head features three LEDs and is fairly big but surprisingly light at 151 grams.  The case is a mix of plastic and aluminum molded together in a design that includes nine cooling fins and five vent holes.

The battery is a neoprene wrapped unit slightly smaller than a coke can. The switch is on the battery and has very nice action to it.

Photon Max Light Head & Bag:

Read the rest of this entry »

(Reviewed by: Adam LaBarge)

The Quick: The Good: Grip, Grip, Grippy Grip. This tires gives confidence inspiring grip, especially in corners. Keeps your wheels on the hillside in off camber section, did I mention it has GRIP!? Fast rolling tire considering all the knobs and GRIP. Can be modified. EC has almost given you a blank slate to work with.   The Bad: Maybe too much grip for a rear tire, hard to break loose for right corners. Could track a wee bit better on off-camber trail sections. Doesn’t come in 2.5 Kevlar Bead, 1350g is too heavy most of the time

 

Review: 2.5 ExCavator Wire Bead STICK-E : $52.99

The Kenda ExCavator is for those of you who need a fairly fast, one hundred and ten percent gripping tire, 100% of the time.

I was given the opportunity to test the 2.5 STICK-E Wire Bead DH casing version of these tires a couple of months ago and have been ripping up gravity trails ever since. First observations, this tire has tons of knobs everywhere and a fairly flat crown, which means it should have mad grip and mad roll! So, did it perform? Where did it perform best? And more importantly, do you have to be EC to take advantage of what these tires have to offer or just an average sport? Read the rest of this entry »

Reviewed by Brian Mullin aka Gram and MTBR.com Pastajet

I don’t think it was inconsequential that the first bike I saw and rode at the 2007 Interbike Outdoor Demo was the Moots Mooto-XZ. The titanium 29er with 4 inches of suspension caught my eye and pretty much drew me in like a magnet, “Test me please! Don’t hate me because I’m beautiful.” It was a standout ride at the Interbike Demo days and it won my ‘Best Ride of the Show’ award. I decided that I needed to do an in-depth review of the bike to truly do this beauty some justice. I contacted Moots about doing a long term test and they agreed to send me a demo bike. After a couple of months the Mooto-XZ showed up on my doorstep, just in time for my winter vacation to California, sort of an early Christmas present. Thanks to Cathy at Moots for giving me the opportunity to test out their bike. I was really looking forward to spending some quality time on this bike and getting a feel for its potential, assets, deficits and its idiosyncrasies. In my case that could be called idioTsyncrasies but I digress. This was of course going to be a brutal and honest review no matter how much I liked the bike. I wanted to show warts and all, even if they were titanium warts. “It’s not a tumor.” Read the rest of this entry »