One of the key features of the Magic Mary is its aggressive tread pattern. The large, square-shaped knobs provide ample grip on wet and loose surfaces, allowing riders to maintain control of their bikes even in challenging conditions. Additionally, the tire’s shoulder knobs are designed to provide additional traction and stability when cornering, making it a great option for aggressive riders.

In wet conditions, the Magic Mary truly shines. The tire’s wide spacing between the knobs allows for mud and water to clear easily, reducing the risk of hydroplaning. The tread pattern also provides excellent traction on wet rocks and roots, giving riders the confidence to tackle challenging sections of trail.

In loose conditions, such as loose gravel or sand, the Magic Mary once again performs exceptionally well. The tire’s aggressive tread pattern provides ample grip on loose surfaces, allowing riders to maintain control and stability even in difficult conditions. Additionally, the tire’s robust construction and strong sidewalls help to prevent pinch flats and provide additional support when navigating loose terrain.

One of the most impressive aspects of the Magic Mary is its durability. Despite its aggressive tread pattern and robust construction, this tire is able to withstand a significant amount of wear and tear without showing significant signs of wear. This makes it an excellent choice for riders who want a tire that will last them a long time and provide reliable performance, even in challenging conditions.

The Magic Mary is also an excellent option for riders who want a tire that provides a comfortable ride. Despite its aggressive tread pattern, the tire is designed to absorb shock and vibration, providing a smooth and comfortable ride even over rough terrain. This makes it a great option for riders who want a tire that will provide a comfortable ride without sacrificing performance.

The Schwalbe Magic Mary is an excellent mountain bike tire that is designed to provide excellent traction and handling in a variety of conditions. Its aggressive tread pattern, robust construction, and impressive durability make it a great choice for riders who want a tire that will perform well in both wet and loose conditions. Additionally, the tire’s ability to absorb shock and provide a comfortable ride make it a great option for riders who want a tire that will provide a comfortable and reliable ride over a variety of terrains.

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Let me tell you, the sturdiness of this fork is no joke! The 36mm aluminium stanchion is super strong and lightweight, making it the perfect combo for handling even the toughest terrain. The ride feel is just so solid, giving you total control and confidence on the trail.

And get this, you can tweak it to your heart’s desire! The air spring and damping adjustments give you the power to fine-tune this fork to your riding style and the terrain you’re on. The air spring is seriously impressive – it’s so smooth and consistent it’ll blow your mind. And the R2C2 damping system? Forget about it! It stands for “Rider-Tuned, Reduced-Friction Compression Circuit” and lets you fine-tune the low-speed compression and rebound damping for even more control. The reduced-friction circuit also makes the fork so buttery smooth and consistent; it’s insane!

The 15mm thru-axle is a game-changer, giving you unbeatable stiffness and stability. Plus, it’s super easy to pop the wheel off for maintenance or repairs, thanks to the quick-release lever.

And the hydraulic bottom-out system? It’s the cherry on top! It helps prevent harsh bottom-outs, even on the hardest impacts. This fork can handle anything you throw at it!

Maintenance is a breeze with the Durolux36 EQ R2C2. The sealed cartridge keep dirt and debris out, so you don’t have to service it too often. And adjusting the air spring and damping circuits is super simple, so you can keep the fork performing like a champ for years to come.

SR Suntour Durolux 36 EQ R2C2 Review: Set up

The best settings for the SR Suntour Durolux 36 EQ R2C2 fork will vary depending on the rider’s personal preferences, riding style, and the terrain they’re on. However, as a starting point, the following settings may work well for an 80kg rider:

1. Air pressure: Start by setting the air pressure to around 110psi and adjust according to your preference for a firmer or softer ride.
2. Rebound damping: Rebound damping controls how fast the fork returns after compressing. A good starting point for an 80kg rider would be to set the rebound damping to the middle setting. If the fork is bouncing too much, slow down the rebound damping, if it is not bouncing enough, speed it up.
3. Low-speed compression damping: This setting controls the compression of the fork at slow speeds. For a more aggressive rider, start with a firmer low-speed compression damping setting, and for a more trail-oriented rider, start with a softer setting.
4. Hydraulic bottom-out: The hydraulic bottom-out system helps prevent harsh bottom-outs. For an 80kg rider, start with the setting in the middle and adjust according to your preference for a firmer or softer bottom-out.

It’s important to note that these settings are just a starting point, and you may need to make adjustments based on your riding style, the terrain you’re on, and how the fork feels. The adjustability of the SR Suntour Durolux 36 EQ R2C2 fork is one of its strengths, so take advantage of it and experiment with different settings to find what works best for you.

SR Suntour Durolux 36 EQ R2C2 Review: How does it compare?

The SR Suntour Durolux 36 EQ R2C2 and the RockShox Lyrik are two top-of-the-line suspension forks designed for all-mountain and enduro riding. The price of the SR Suntour Durolux 36 EQ R2C2 is generally lower compared to the RockShox Lyrik, making it a more affordable option for riders on a budget. Both forks feature a 36mm stanchion, making them equally stiff. The RockShox Lyrik is known for having a more rigid feel, which can make it better suited for aggressive riding.

Both forks have air spring and damping adjustability, but the RockShox Lyrik offers a wider range of adjustability options, providing more fine-tuning to your personal preferences. The SR Suntour Durolux 36 EQ R2C2 is equipped with the R2C2 damping system, which allows for low-speed compression and rebound damping adjustments. The RockShox Lyrik features the Charger 2 RLC Damper, which is recognized for its exceptional small bump sensitivity and improved control. Although the RockShox Lyrik is slightly lighter than the SR Suntour Durolux 36 EQ R2C2, both are high-quality suspension forks.

The choice between these two forks will depend on your individual preferences and budget. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with good adjustability, the SR Suntour Durolux 36 EQ R2C2 is a great choice. On the other hand, if you’re searching for a more premium option with a wider range of adjustability options and improved small bump sensitivity, the RockShox Lyrik may be the better option for you.

SR Suntour Durolux 36 EQ R2C2 Review: Why don’t all brands include a mudguard?

The inclusion of an integrated mudguard sets the SR Suntour Durolux 36 EQ R2C2 apart from other brands, as it offers a practical solution to keep mud and debris from clogging the fork, ensuring optimal performance on any trail. Not many fork brands include a mudguard, making this a unique and valuable benefit of choosing the Durolux 36 EQ R2C2 from Suntour.

SR Suntour Durolux 36 EQ R2C2 Review: Conclusion

In conclusion, the SR Suntour Durolux36 EQ R2C2 fork is a must-have for any serious mountain biker! The balance of stiffness, sensitivity, and adjustability is next-level, and the hydraulic bottom-out system, low-maintenance design, and high level of adjustability make it an unstoppable force on the trails! If you want to take your all-mountain and enduro rides to the next level, this fork is the way to go!

For more details of the SR Suntour Durolux 36 EQ R2C2 head over to the Suntour website.

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With its clean lines, attractive design, and laser-etched graphics, the Fovno Phantom chainset adds a touch of style to any bike. It is available in a variety of colors, allowing riders to choose the perfect match for their bike and personal style. Despite its eye-catching appearance, the Fovno Phantom chainset is priced competitively, making it a great value for its price.

Made from high-grade 7075 T6 aluminum, the Fovno Phantom chainset is both sturdy and lightweight. The CNC machining process ensures precise dimensions and efficient shifting, while additional CNC machining on the back reduces weight even further. The chainset is compatible with either direct mount chainrings or can be used with an adapter for standard chainrings, making it a versatile option for riders with different bikes and drivetrains.

Available only through select online stores, the Fovno Phantom CNC chainset may not be as easily accessible as some other brands. However, its performance makes it a worthwhile investment for riders looking to upgrade their crankset. The chainset comes with the bottom bracket, making installation even more convenient.

In terms of performance, the Fovno Phantom CNC chainset provides a solid and reliable platform for riders. There is no noticeable flex during intense riding, making it a great choice for climbers or those who push hard on the pedals.

Fovno Phantom CNC Chainset Review: On the trail

During our testing of the Fovno Phantom CNC chainset, we were impressed by its strength and reliability. Regardless of the terrain we faced or the speed at which we were riding, the chainset held up without any issues. The sturdy construction and precise CNC machining resulted in a solid and dependable platform for our mountain bike.

Fovno Phantom CNC Chainset Review: Conclusion

In conclusion, the Fovno Phantom CNC chainset is a top-notch option for riders who are looking for a stylish, high-quality, and affordable chainset upgrade for their mountain bike. With its attractive design, range of colors, precise CNC machining, compatibility with either direct mount chainrings or standard chainrings with an adapter, and the fact that it comes with the bottom bracket, the Fovno Phantom chainset is a great value for its price and a worthy investment for any rider looking to upgrade their crankset.

Head to the Fovno website for more info.

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The Hunt Trail Wide V2 wheels feature a tubeless-ready design, making it easier to run lower tire pressures without the risk of pinch flats. This results in a more comfortable ride and improved traction on a variety of surfaces. Additionally, the tubeless-ready design helps to reduce the weight of the wheel, as there is no need for an inner tube.

One of the standout features of the Hunt Trail Wide V2 wheels is their strength and durability. The wheels are built with high-quality materials and feature a reinforced spoke bed, which helps to distribute the weight evenly and prevent damage from impacts. This is particularly important for riders who like to tackle more technical trails, where the risk of impact damage is higher.

The Hunt Trail Wide V2 wheels are also very easy to set up and maintain. They come with pre-installed tubeless tape, making it simple to get up and running, and the sealed bearings ensure a smooth and consistent ride. The wheels are also easy to clean, as the smooth surface makes it simple to wipe away any dirt or grime.

In terms of performance, the Hunt Trail Wide V2 wheels do not disappoint. They provide a smooth and stable ride, even on rough terrain, and the wide rim helps to improve traction and stability when cornering. The wheels are also very responsive, allowing riders to make quick changes in direction with ease.

Hunt Trail Wide V2 Review: Sealed Bearings

The use of sealed bearings in the Hunt Trail Wide V2 wheels offers numerous advantages to riders, including durability, protection from contaminants, improved performance, lower maintenance, and increased reliability. Sealed bearings are designed to withstand harsh conditions and are less susceptible to wear and tear, which can result in a longer lifespan for the wheel. They also provide protection against debris, water, and other contaminants that can cause damage and negatively impact performance. Furthermore, the smooth and consistent roll of sealed bearings provides a more efficient and responsive ride, as they are not affected by friction and wear in the same way as traditional bearings. Additionally, sealed bearings require less maintenance and are less likely to fail, providing riders with a more reliable and dependable wheel. Overall, the use of sealed bearings in the Hunt Trail Wide V2 wheels provides riders with a more durable, reliable, and efficient cycling experience.

Hunt Trail Wide V2 Review: 28 Spokes

The Hunt Trail Wide V2 wheels utilize 28 spokes, which provides a balanced combination of strength and weight savings. The use of 28 spokes allows for a stiff and responsive wheel while still maintaining a relatively lightweight. This combination of stiffness and low weight makes the Hunt Trail Wide V2 wheels well-suited for demanding off-road riding and racing, as they provide the responsiveness needed to tackle rough terrain while also reducing the weight of the wheel to minimize rotational mass. Additionally, the 28 spokes provide a more predictable handling experience, as they are less likely to flex or deform under load. This results in a wheel that is stable and predictable, even at high speeds or during hard cornering. The use of 28 spokes in the Hunt Trail Wide V2 wheels provides riders with a wheel that is strong, light, and responsive, making it an excellent choice for demanding off-road riding and racing.

Hunt Trail Wide V2 Review: Compliant ride

The Hunt Trail Wide V2 wheels are engineered for a comfortable ride, which can alleviate fatigue and enhance the overall cycling experience. The 3omm rim width provides ample clearance for wider tires and allows for lower tire pressures, creating a smoother ride by absorbing more of the shock and vibrations from rough terrain. The tubeless-ready design not only eliminates the risk of pinch flats, but it also enables riders to run lower tire pressures for an even more comfortable ride. The sealed bearings in the wheels offer a smooth and consistent roll, allowing riders to concentrate on their riding rather than being jolted by rough terrain. Additionally, the wider rim width and tubeless-ready design improve traction, making it easier to maintain control and speed, reducing the effort needed and therefore fatigue. The Hunt Trail Wide V2 wheels are designed to provide a fatigue-free and enjoyable ride, whether you’re tackling tough trails or leisurely riding through the countryside.

Hunt Trail Wide V2 Review: Conclusion

Overall, the Hunt Trail Wide V2 wheels are a fantastic choice for anyone looking for high-performance and durable wheels. They are lightweight, easy to set up, and provide a smooth and stable ride, making them an excellent choice for riders of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a beginner, these wheels will help to improve your riding experience and help you tackle any terrain with confidence.

In conclusion, the Hunt Trail Wide V2 wheels are a well-designed, high-performance wheel that delivers on its promises. They are durable, lightweight, and provide a smooth and stable ride, making them a great choice for riders of all levels. If you’re looking for a wheel that will help you tackle any terrain with confidence, the Hunt Trail Wide V2 is definitely worth considering.

Did you enjoy this review? Then read more here.

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One of the standout features of the Privateer 141 is its lightweight construction. Made from high-quality aluminum and carbon fiber, the bike weighs in at just over 30 pounds, making it one of the lightest trail bikes on the market. This low weight makes the bike easy to maneuver and accelerates quickly, allowing for faster and more efficient climbs.

The bike’s components are also top-notch, featuring a SRAM GX Eagle drivetrain with a 1×12 setup and hydraulic disc brakes for reliable and precise shifting and stopping power. The suspension system, made by RockShox, offers easy adjustability and tuning, allowing riders to fine-tune the bike to their specific riding style and preferences.

One area where Privateer 141 could be improved is its weight distribution. While the bike is light overall, some riders may feel that the weight is not evenly distributed, leading to a somewhat front-heavy feel. However, this can be easily corrected by adjusting the suspension settings and using lighter components, such as a lighter fork or handlebars.

Privateer 141 Review: Design Highlights

The one-piece rocker design of the Privateer 141 has several benefits, one of which is reducing the chance of bearing misalignment. A one-piece suspension rocker eliminates the use of multiple parts, which reduces the number of points where misalignment can occur. With fewer points of failure, there is less chance of the bearings becoming misaligned, which can result in reduced friction, improved durability, and increased longevity of the suspension system. Additionally, the use of a one-piece suspension rocker can help improve stability and handling, making the ride smoother and more controlled.

The steep seat tube angle on the Privateer 141 improves climbing performance by positioning the rider’s weight more efficiently over the pedals. This allows for more power to be transferred to the pedals and helps to maintain traction on steep climbs. The steeper angle also allows the rider to maintain a more upright posture, reducing fatigue and improving breathing during extended climbs. Additionally, a steep seat tube angle reduces the front-end height, lowering the centre of gravity and making it easier to manoeuvre the bike. This results in improved stability and traction, making it easier for the rider to tackle steep or challenging terrain. Overall, a steep seat tube angle helps to enhance the rider’s ability to climb efficiently and effectively.

The Privateer 141 also boasts size-specific chainstay lengths meaning the chainstay length is longer on larger bikes and shorter on smaller sizes. This has a number of benefits:

A longer chainstay improves the balance and handling of a mountain bike in several ways:

1. Weight distribution: A longer chainstay moves the rear wheel further back, shifting more weight to the rear of the bike. This helps to balance the weight distribution and improves stability, especially when riding downhill or over rough terrain.
2. Improved traction: The longer chainstay helps to distribute the rider’s weight more evenly between the front and rear wheels, improving traction and control.
3. Reduced wheel flop: A longer chainstay reduces the tendency of the front wheel to “flop” or lose traction in technical terrain, improving handling and control.
4. More stability: The longer chainstay also increases the wheelbase of the bike, making it more stable and less prone to wobbling or instability.

Privateer 141 Review: Climbing Performance

The Privateer 141 trail bike offers solid climbing performance, making it a great choice for riders who want a versatile bike that can handle both climbs and descents with ease.

The bike’s geometry and suspension system provide a balanced and efficient pedaling platform, allowing the rider to transfer power to the pedals with minimal energy loss. The lightweight design of the bike also helps to reduce the effort required to get up steep or extended climbs, making it easier for the rider to conserve energy.

In addition, the suspension system is designed to be highly efficient, with minimal pedal bob and minimal energy loss. This helps to maintain traction and control on loose or technical terrain, allowing the rider to tackle challenging climbs with confidence.

The Privateer 141 also features a wide gear range, providing the rider with the gear options they need to tackle any type of climb. Whether it’s a steep, punchy climb or a longer, grinding ascent, the bike’s drivetrain provides the necessary range to get to the top with ease.

Privateer 141 Review: Downhill Performance

The Privateer 141 trail bike is a versatile mountain bike that offers excellent downhill performance. It features a longer wheelbase, slack head angle, and a low bottom bracket, which work together to provide stability and control on technical descents. Additionally, the 141mm of rear suspension travel allows the bike to smoothly absorb rough terrain, reducing rider fatigue and increasing control.

The Privateer 141 also features modern geometry, which provides a more confidence-inspiring ride on steep and challenging terrain. The geometry and suspension work together to provide a planted and stable feel, allowing the rider to descend with speed and precision.

The bike is also designed to be lightweight, with a focus on component selection and construction that help to reduce weight while maintaining durability. This helps to improve the bike’s handling and maneuverability, making it easier to navigate tight and technical terrain.

Privateer 141 Review: Conclusion

In conclusion, the Privateer 141 is a fantastic trail bike that offers a great balance of speed, stability, and versatility. The lightweight construction, high-quality components, and adjustable suspension system make it a great option for riders of all levels and riding styles. Overall, the Privateer 141 is a well-designed and well-rounded trail bike that is sure to provide an excellent riding experience for anyone who is looking for a fast, nimble, and stable bike for their next adventure on the trails.

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In terms of performance, the Zeb is a worthy competitor to the Fox 38. The Zeb’s Charger 2.1 RC2 damper provides smooth and consistent suspension performance, allowing the rider to tackle rough terrain with confidence. The fork also features Rockshox’s DebonAir air spring, which provides a more supple feel and better small bump sensitivity compared to traditional coil springs.

One of the standout features of the Zeb is its highly adjustable nature. The fork allows for independent low-speed and high-speed compression damping, as well as rebound damping, giving the rider the ability to fine-tune their suspension setup to suit their personal riding style and terrain conditions. This level of adjustability is often only found on much more expensive forks.

Rockshox Zeb Review: Small Bump Sensitivity

The Rockshox Zeb suspension fork is known for its excellent small bump compliance, making it a popular choice for riders who demand a smooth and sensitive ride. This is thanks to the DebonAir air spring, which provides a more supple feel compared to traditional coil springs. The DebonAir spring is designed to offer excellent small bump sensitivity, allowing the rider to maintain traction and control over rough terrain, even at slow speeds.

Additionally, the Zeb’s Charger 2.1 RC2 damper provides smooth and consistent suspension performance, helping to further enhance small bump compliance. The damper is highly adjustable, allowing the rider to fine-tune their suspension setup to suit their personal riding style and terrain conditions.

The Zeb’s 38mm chassis also provides a stiff and rigid platform, allowing for precise handling, even at high speeds. This helps to ensure that the fork stays tracking straight and true, even over the roughest terrain, providing the rider with a smooth and stable ride.

In conclusion, the Rockshox Zeb’s DebonAir air spring and Charger 2.1 RC2 damper, along with its stiff 38mm chassis, make it a top-performing suspension fork with excellent small bump compliance. It is a popular choice among riders who demand a smooth and sensitive ride, and is well-suited to handle aggressive terrain.

Rockshox Zeb Review: Too Stiff?

The Rockshox Zeb suspension fork is a highly rigid and stiff design, offering excellent stability and precision handling, especially at high speeds. However, this same stiffness that makes the Zeb ideal for aggressive riding can also make it too stiff for lighter riders.

Lighter riders may find that the Zeb’s stiff design can lead to a harsh ride, especially on rough terrain. The stiffness of the fork can cause it to transfer impacts directly to the rider, leading to a less comfortable ride. In these cases, lighter riders may prefer a fork with a more forgiving design, such as one with a softer spring rate or a more active damping system.

On the other hand, the stiffness of the Zeb makes it an ideal choice for electric mountain bikes (e-MTBs). E-MTBs are often heavier than traditional mountain bikes, and the additional weight of the electric motor and battery can put a lot of stress on the suspension components. The Zeb’s stiff design is well-suited to handle the added weight and power of an e-MTB, providing excellent stability and control, even in demanding terrain.

Rockshox Zeb Review: How does it compare?

Compared to the Fox 38, the Zeb is slightly heavier, but this is to be expected given its highly adjustable nature and the added weight of its DebonAir spring. However, the Zeb is still a relatively lightweight option compared to many other high-end suspension forks on the market.

Another key difference between the Zeb and the Fox 38 is the stiffness of their respective chassis. The Zeb’s 38mm stanchions offer a very stiff and rigid platform, allowing for precise and confident handling, even at high speeds. The Fox 38, on the other hand, has slightly larger 40mm stanchions which can result in a slightly more plush and forgiving ride, but can also lead to some noticeable flex under heavy loads.

In terms of durability, both the Zeb and Fox 38 are built to last, and are backed by industry-leading warranties from their respective manufacturers. The Zeb features high-quality materials and manufacturing processes, and its durable construction is designed to withstand the rigors of aggressive riding. The Fox 38 is similarly well-built, and its rugged construction makes it a solid choice for riders who demand a high level of durability from their suspension components.

Rockshox Zeb Review: Conclusion

In conclusion, the Rockshox Zeb is a top-performing suspension fork that offers a high level of adjustability and a stiff, responsive chassis. Its DebonAir spring and Charger 2.1 RC2 damper provide excellent suspension performance, making it a strong contender in the high-end suspension fork market. While it may be slightly heavier than the Fox 38, its highly adjustable nature and consistent performance make it a great choice for demanding riders who want a fork that can handle anything they throw at it.

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The Vee Tire Co WLT features an aggressive tread pattern that is specifically designed to provide excellent traction and stability in muddy conditions. The tire’s tubeless-ready construction allows for a smoother ride, with reduced risk of pinch flats and improved air retention. The tire’s high-volume design also provides a more comfortable ride, even on the most challenging descents.

One of the standout features of this tire is its ability to handle mud. The tire’s aggressive tread pattern and tubeless-ready construction allow it to provide superior traction and stability in muddy conditions, making it a reliable option for riders who are looking for a tire that can handle even the muddiest trails. The tire’s high-volume design also helps to displace mud, further improving its performance in muddy conditions.

In addition to its excellent performance in muddy conditions, the Vee Tire Co WLT is also designed to provide superior performance in other riding conditions. The tire’s aggressive tread pattern and tubeless-ready construction provide excellent traction and stability, even in wet and slippery conditions. The tire’s high-volume design also provides a more comfortable ride, even on the most challenging descents.

The Vee Tire Co WLT is also built to last. The tire’s durable construction and aggressive tread pattern provide a longer lifespan for the tire, making it a reliable option for riders who are looking for a tire that can handle a wide range of riding styles and conditions.

Vee Tire Co. WLT Review: Conclusion

In conclusion, the Vee Tire Co mud tire is a must-have for riders who are looking for a tire that can handle the toughest terrain and weather conditions. With its aggressive tread pattern, tubeless-ready construction, and high-volume design, this tire provides superior traction and stability in muddy conditions, as well as excellent performance in other riding conditions. Whether you’re tackling steep descents, navigating technical trails, or just looking for a smooth and comfortable ride, the Vee Tire Co mud tire is a tire that you can count on.

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The tubeless-ready construction allows for a smoother ride, with reduced risk of flats and improved air retention. The tire also features a dual-compound rubber, which increases its durability and provides a better grip on rough terrain. The high-volume design allows for increased traction and a more comfortable ride, even on the most challenging descents.

In terms of performance, the Minion DHF does not disappoint. The tire’s aggressive tread pattern provides excellent traction on a variety of terrains, allowing riders to tackle steep descents with confidence. The tubeless-ready construction allows for a smoother ride, with reduced risk of pinch flats and improved air retention.

Maxxis Minion DHF Review: Dual Compound

The dual-compound rubber used in the Minion DHF’s construction is also a major selling point. It provides a longer lifespan for the tire and improved grip on rough terrain, making it a reliable option for riders who are looking for a tire that can handle the toughest conditions.

The Maxxis Minion DHF is a versatile tire that can be used for a variety of riding styles. Its aggressive tread pattern and tubeless-ready construction make it a great option for downhill and enduro riding, but its high-volume design and dual-compound rubber also make it suitable for cross-country and all-mountain riding.

In terms of value, the Maxxis Minion DHF is a great choice. Its high-quality construction, excellent performance, and versatility make it a great investment for riders who are looking for a tire that can handle a wide range of riding styles and conditions.

Maxxis Minion DHF Review: Conclusion

In conclusion, the Maxxis Minion DHF is a top-performing mountain bike tire that provides excellent traction, stability, and durability, making it a reliable choice for aggressive riders who are looking for a tire that can handle the toughest terrain. Whether you’re tackling steep descents, navigating technical trails, or just looking for a smooth and comfortable ride, the Maxxis Minion DHF is a tire that you can count on.

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Call them what you will but the new breed of downcountry/all-mountain/trail bikes are a hell of a lot more capable than their XC race looks might suggest. With this in mind, Fox has borrowed a few updates first seen in last year’s 36 and 38 and trickled them down to their trail-friendly platform.

What’s new on the 2022 Fox 34 Grip 2?

Last year Fox introduced the new Fox 38 and an updated Fox 36 both of which shared a few upgrades to make them smoother, faster and more compatible when used with modern bikes/ebikes. One such update which has made its way to the new 2022 Fox 34 is the new fork arch featuring a round design and sitting further forward to avoid contact with the headtube of certain bikes at full compression. The update gives the 34 a more robust and tougher trail look too, but according to Fox it’s only slightly stiffer in some planes than the previous generation fork.

While that new arch design doesn’t add much to the overall stiffness of the 2022 Fox 34, it does have an impressive effect on the weight to stiffness ratio and has helped Fob lob 50g off the complete package.

Another update first found on the 36 and 38 and now on the 2022 Fox 34 are the lower leg bypass channels though without the on trail bleed nipples found on the larger forks. Fox says air channels ensure the 2022 Fox 34 can consistently achieve full travel. On some forks, changes in the air pressure as the fork compresses can have an unintended consequence of preventing full travel, but these air channels bypass the issue. An added benefit of the air channels is improved lubrication as oil can freely circulate through the fork providing the foam ring and bushings with a constant flow of oil. Internally, the volume of the negative air-spring has been increased for enhanced sensitivity.

The last change to the 2022 Fox 34 has been made to the steerer crown. The new crown is a slightly larger design, a change made simply to improve the aesthetic of the fork when fitted to a modern trail bike.

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Other points of interest include the standard QR axle rather than the floating design found on the Fox 36 and 38 and the lack of air bleed nipples on the side of the legs. These have been omitted on the 2022 Fox 34 to keep the weight to a minimum.

But let’s address the elephant in the room. If you were hoping to pick up a set of the new 34 for your trail bike but runs 27.5in wheels then you’re going to be a little disappointed. At launch, and currently, the MY22 Fox 34 is only available for 29in wheels.

2022 Fox 34 Grip 2 Settings and Adjustments

Riders familiar with Fox forks won’t run into any surprises with the new Fox 34. It’s still an air-sprung fork and it ships with a variety of volume spacers to tune the progression of the air spring. Riders looking for simpler settings or who perhaps want to save even more weight can opt for a Fit 4 damper, but we’ve been riding the Grip 2 damper. In our opinion, the Grip 2 is a much more capable damper and will suit riders looking to take their short travel ‘downcountry’ bikes on more technical trails.

The Grip 2 damper does add an extra level of complexity to the set-up of the fork, however, we find that Fox’s base settings, available on the rear of the shock and online, to be a good starting point, so don’t be put off by the extra dials.

Grip 2 offers riders adjustments to the VCC high and low-speed compression circuits, plus adjustments to high and low-speed rebound.

• High-speed compression – 8 clicks
• Low-speed compression – 16 clicks
• High-speed rebound – 8 clicks
• Low-speed rebound – 16 clicks

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2022 Fox 34 Grip 2 on the trail

At 140mm travel, our Fox 34 Grip 2 is the longest travel 34 in the range. If you wanted more than that you would need to move to a Fox 36, but then you would also have to carry extra weight around with you. We used the base settings supplied by Fox and found that we were just a click or two away from perfection and had the new 34 feeling sorted with just a few runs.

Compared to the previous generation Fox 34 the MY22 model instantly felt smoother on the trail. It’s more reactive to changes in surface and feels closer to the 36 in terms of the ability to handle repetitive small to medium-sized hits. This plush new feeling means that the lighter 2022 Fox 34 actually absorbs hits more successfully, and whereas the previous fork would quickly twang and bounce from a fast and hard strike the new fork eats it up. Impressive for a fork that is said to only be slightly stiffer yet overall lighter!

Suspension settings are a mix of personal preference, your style of riding, the trails you ride and your weight (naturally). I tend to run more sag than most riders and actually don’t mind my fork sitting a little deeper, but other testers preferred to add a few volume spacers and add a few clicks of low-speed compression to keep the front end higher into its midstroke.

2022 Fox 34 Grip 2 Overall

I always like the previous Fox 34, but this new 34 raises the bar and is better in pretty much every aspect. The 2022 Fox 34 manages to handle more aggressive riding and quickly recover after serious rock garden action all while weighing less! Riders who once might have turned their noses up at the 34 might want to rethink because the MY22 Fox 34 performs just like a baby Fox 36 might!

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When you’re in the market for a new Enduro tyre, there are plenty of brands to choose from, but chances are Vee Tire Co. isn’t one of the most obvious candidates, but we expect that this is going to change very soon.

For the past decade, or near enough, Vee Tire Co. has manufactured high-quality rubber for all disciplines of cycling. The Thailand based manufacture began producing BMX tires, Fat Bikes were next, before the company moved into the mountain bike segment sponsoring big-name freeride legends and UCI downhill teams.

Teams and riders running Vee Tire Co. rubber in 2021 include The Brigade DH team, Commencal Nobl, Phil Atwill, the Sunn French Connexion enduro team not to mention world pump track champion Tommy Zula. With this type of talent on board, it’s hardly surprising that Vee Tire Co. make some damn impressive rubber for gravity riders.

Vee Tire Co. Attack HPL Review – Design

New for 2021 is the Vee Tire Co. Attack HPL, an enduro tyre that Vee developed to offer fast rolling resistance, better braking performance and overall grip in a wide variety of trail conditions.

HPL actually stands for ‘Hardpack Loose”, and Vee claims the tyre is ideal for bike parks, hardpack natural trails, and loose over hardpacked, but as we found during our tests, the Attack HPL offers so much more in so many varied conditions making it an excellent all-rounder.

Vee has designed the Attack HPL with a rounder profile than say their Snap Trail, thus giving it a progressive transition when leaning the bike over in fast, loose, sharp turns. This is perfect for front wheel use, and depending on the time of year and where you ride, the HPL offers amazing predictability and performance on the rear also.

The tread pattern of the Attack HPL features a large tread block located centrally in the tyre, this is followed by two evenly spaced blocks at every other interval. The aim of this central tread design is to offer greater rolling resistance on acceleration while also digging in for enhanced braking. The largest centre tread is ramped to further improve rolling resistance and is straddled on either side by two smaller angled knobs to that generate grip while leaning the bike into corners for consistent and predictable traction.

Side knobs are alternated between a simple bloke and an ‘L’ shaped tread, each featuring sipes, 2 on the block and 1 on the ‘L’ tread, for better traction on wet surfaces. These side knobs follow the round profile of the tyre ensuring a consistent feel across the range with no loss of traction while switching from upright to a hard, banked position.

The tread design is important, but compound and construction can make a break a tyre, luckily Vee has this dialled in too. The Attack HPL is available in both Enduro and Gravity core construction. Enduro is a single-ply tyre while Gravity is a dual-ply tyre aimed at more aggressive riders. The weight difference between the two is around 100g for a 29er wheel.

Vee’s own Top 40 rubber compound is used for the HPL, it’s the same rubber compound that the WCE and Snap Trail uses and was first offered to WC riders. While we can’t test this for ourselves, Vee states that Top 40 measures a 42a durometer rating making this a very tacky and malleable rubber. Squeezing the tread knobs with your fingers shows just how tacky this rubber is, and also demonstrates the high damping nature of the rubber, with tread slowly springing back to shape after deformation.

On the trails, this makes the Attack HPL a very sticky set of tyres and one that rewards riders who enjoy pushing their riding to the limits on aggressive terrain. The damping characteristics of the rubber add a calming effect to the ride and helps to ensure the rubber is always in contact with something, grabbing hold of whatever it touches for maximum grip.

Vee Tire Co. Attack HPL Review – The Ride

The Vee Tire Co. Attack HPL impressed us right off the bat. The tyre was easy to install tubeless and seated perfectly with a track pump. The Enduro core version of the tyre which we tested, is lightweight but offer great puncture protection throughout our test period not once letting us down.

The on-trail grip of the HPL is almost endless, and the tread has proven that it’s more than capable in dirt, mud and slimy rocks and roots. The only time the HPL feels out of its depth is in very muddy conditions but then most tyres would. The soft rubber and high damping make calm handling at high speeds, and with some of the best braking performance we have come across, the Attack HPL likes to drive fast and brake late for high-speed hijinks.

With rapid rolling resistance the Attack HPL isn’t just a downhill duty tyre either, and we happily climbed with an HPL front and rear with no noticeable disadvantages.

Vee Tire Co. Attack HPL weighs and prices

• 29 x 2.5 Gravity Core, Top 40 – 1350g – MSRP $70.00
• 29 x 2.5 Enduro Core, Top 40 – 1150g – MSRP $65.00
• 27.5 x 2.5 Gravity Core, Top 40 – 1270g – MSRP $70.00
• 27.5 x 2.5 Enduro Core, Top 40 – 1080g – MSRP $65.00

Vee Tire Co Attack HPL Overall

One of the best performing, confidence inspiring and fast tyres that we have ever ridden.

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