The big news on the dropper front post in recent weeks has been the launch of the Fox DOSS and CrankBrothers Kronolog, but the hydraulic RockShox Reverb remains our current favourite and some new developments should help it remain top of the heap.
In addition to the current 4in (100mm) and 5in (125mm) drop models, RockShox are now offering a 6in (150mm) version, which should be perfect for taller riders who like to run their seats slammed to the top tube on downhills. It'll only be available with Stealth internal hose routing, though, so you'll need a compatible frame.
This feature will now be available across the Reverb range after previously being restricted to OEM posts supplied with Trek and Scott bikes. There's no word yet on availability or US pricing of the new Stealth posts; UK RRP is £329.99.
Gaerne
Gaerne have launched a new flagship road shoe, the G.Chrono, to mark their 50th anniversary. Claimed weight is just 275g a pair – 25 percent less than the company's current top-dog race shoe, the G.Air.
Despite this feathery weight, Gaerne haven't skimped on features – the G.Chrono has a Boa fit system, an ultra thin, ventilated carbon fibre sole, a carbon heel cup and a microfibre upper with mesh inserts. It's available in white, black, blue or red, with pricing and availability still to be confirmed. A mountain bike version is also available, called the G.Kobra.
Louis Garneau
Louis Garneau are probably best known for their road helmets but they make mountain bike lids too, and the new Karve looks very promising, with features and construction quality that belie its £64.99/US$79.99 price. It weighs 291g in the medium size, uses in-mould construction, has 29 vents and a dial fit system.
Its key features, though, are Garneau's U-Bar and MSB technologies. The former is a series of plastic ribs that acts like an exoskeleton, while the latter is a reinforced base at the rear of the helmet, where the outer shell wraps over the sides of the EPS inner to protect it from knocks.
New UK importer for Industry Nine
US wheel specialists Industry Nine have appointed Prestige Cycles of Hove, East Sussex as their sole UK importers. The small company – they have just eight staff – design and make custom wheels, spokes and hubs in-house at their factory in Asheville, North Carolina. We were very impressed by the i25 road wheels we tested last year so we're keen to see more.
SDG
California's SDG are launching a 'ride before you buy' initiative that will allow you to try out a selection of their saddle shapes before handing over your cash. Six seats will be included in the demo ride programme – the Duster RL, Circuit, Falcon, Allure and Bel Air RL – with prices starting at £39.95. To find out more, visit any authorised SDG Demo Centre.
