SRAM to introduce X0 1×11 drivetrain next year
Most readers won’t be surprised to hear that SRAM’s fantastic XX1 1×11 drivetrain technology will be trickling down to lower price points for next year, mirroring the roll-out for the company’s 2×10 systems. However, we now have some confirmation of that fact, meaning more riders will soon be able to enjoy the benefits of single-ring living without the steep XX price tag.
SRAM has been extremely tight-lipped about new 1×11 offerings so far, but we stumbled upon a spec sheet with some tantalizing part numbers that give a hint of what’s to come. If this spec sheet is accurate, we can expect an X0 1×11 group including a clutched Type 2 rear derailleur and matching trigger shifter plus an XG-1195 cassette with the same super wide-range 10-42T gearing and likely requiring the same XD freehub body.
SRAM claims its X-Horizon non-slanted parallelogram yields more precise shifting than traditional geometries
We anticipate a corresponding X0 1×11 crankset as well, as it would only require a new spider. That said, we have also caught wind of the non-series X1 model crank. Both would use the same alternating thick-thin chainring teeth profiling as the current XX1 setup.
Will we see 1×11 trickle even further down, to the X9 and X7 levels or beyond? We can’t say for sure but it’s a safe bet given SRAM’s history.
Prices, weights and additional details are still unavailable.
Updating the current X0 crank for 11-speed would only require a new spider
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Endura FS260 Pro II bib shorts review
These shorts might technically be roadie items, but the thinner, fast-wicking Fieldsensor fabric means they’re very comfy and almost unnoticeable when worn under shorts, too, especially in warm weather.
Detailing is excellent, with the mesh straps having Lycra edging for superb, abrasion-free fit. The back extends high up but the flatlocked seams mean it’s undetectable even with a pack on. A mesh centre panel prevents any clammy sensations.
The multi-density antibacterial pad provides all-day support without bulk. It’s slightly stretchy too, which helps it sit well. It’s well ventilated, meaning less sweat to get uncomfortable. The elasticated leg hems have silicone grippers that prevent movement, but they can dig in ever so slightly.
This article was originally published in What Mountain Bike magazine, available on Apple Newsstand and Zinio.
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Trail Tech: What to pack for long mountain bike rides
One of the best parts of mountain biking is that it enables you to journey farther and faster into the woods than you could on foot. This also means that when something goes wrong, such as an injury or a mechanical, it will likely be up to you to address the problem.
With longer days come longer rides. And if, like me, you enjoy spending all day on the trails, you should plan and pack accordingly.
In addition to nutrition, hydration and identification, here are 20 items to bring on your next backcountry mountain bike ride.
Like most tools, these items are only useful if you know how to use them. It’s always best to ride with a group. If venturing deep into the woods alone, be sure you have a basic understanding of first aid and also know how to:
20 essentials for all-day mountain bike rides
1. Spare tubes (2)
Carrying two spare tubes is a must for long mountain bike rides. Double flats happen — usually a split second after you call out to your riding buddies “Hey! Watch this!” High-speed descents through rock gardens and jumps with flat run-outs are notorious for pinching tubes and tires.
When riding with a group, I carry one tube for my wheel size and, regardless of what bike I’m riding, also carry a 650b (27.5in) tube. Why? Because in a jam a ‘tweener’ tube works well enough for both 26in and 29er tires that I can help out a fellow mountain biker in need.
2. Patch kit
Patch kits take up very little room in your pack and are a necessity when you’ve used your last tube. Glueless patches (shown here) are much faster to apply but don’t have the longevity of patches that use a vulcanizing agent.
3. Tire pump
The first two items are pretty useless without a pump. A CO2 inflator and cartridges are optional; they will get you back up and rolling quicker, but a mini pump will work every time.
4. Multi-tool
Never leave home without a good multi-tool. I always opt for a multi-tool with a built-in chain tool, a T25 torx, flathead and Philips screwdrivers, and at least 2.5 3,4,5,6 and 8mm Allen keys, and the most common spoke tool sizes. The Crankbrothers multi-tool shown here is good; a multi-tool that also has a built in pair of pliers and wire cutters is even better.
5. Tire levers (2)
While many multi-tools have a tire lever built into them, they’re generally not as useful, nor as well constructed, as standalone levers.
6. Shock pump
Modern air shocks are quite reliable, but it’s still a good idea to pack a shock pump in case you develop a slow leak or (more likely) if you find you need to fine-tune your suspension during your ride.
7. Chain lube
If you’re likely to encounter multiple stream crossings, dusty trail conditions, or a chance of showers on your ride a small bottle of chain lube pack a small bottle of chain lube. Tip: use a rubber band to wrap a section of cloth from a rag or old shirt around the bottle – use it to clean grime off the chain before applying fresh chain lube, as well as to wipe off excess lube after application.
8. Lip balm
Keeping a stick of lip balm (preferably with an SPF rating) in your pack is a good idea when riding in dry environments.
9. Sun screen
The long days of summer mean long, rides but also mean more exposure. Pack a small bottle of sunscreen (SPF 30 or greater) and reapply when needed.
10. Phone
Smart phones can do a number of helpful things, but the most important is to phone home in case an emergency. Be sure to have an “in case of emergency” contact listed in your phone’s address book.
11. Packable rain jacket
Weather can be unpredictable, particularly in the mountains. A lightweight, packable shell, such as this Endura Pakajak, will keep your core dry and warm, should you encounter a sudden downpour.
12. First aid kit
A small first aid kit in a waterproof package is a must. Bandages, gauze, disinfecting wipes, and tweezers are all items to include in your kit. Like the tools in this list, a first aid kit is only useful if you know how to use it – a basic understanding of first and CPR may come in handy.
13. Derailleur hanger
A bent or broken derailleur hanger can mean the end of your ride (or an impromptu singlespeed conversion). Carry a spare hanger with mounting bolts just in case. Problem Solvers Universal Derailleur Hanger is a good backup option, if you’re packing for more than just yourself, though it won’t work with the increasingly common 142x12mm rear axle.
14. Extra links of chain with a master link
Keeping a few links of chain, along with a master link, in your pack will ensure you can replace bent or broken links and still have full use of your gears.
15. Chainring bolt
Chainring bolts occasionally shear off or rattle loose. Keeping a spare in your pack will allow your to continue on with all your rings intact.
16. Extra cleat with bolts and backplate
It rarely happens, but when it does it can turn a great ride into miserable, one-legged pedaling misadventure. Keep a cleat along with the bolts and backplate (the part that goes in your shoe) in your pack. This way you have all three parts, should you need them. Tip: Keep the cleat bolted to the backplate so you don’t lose any of the items.
17. Zip ties
Zip ties come in handy in a number of ways. They can be used to wrangle errant cables, replace a broken or missing chainring bolt (just long enough to limp home), and keep your shoe tight if a buckle breaks.
18. Spare spoke with nipple
Keep a spare spoke and nipple on hand just in case. Like the spare cleat, keep the nipple threaded onto the spoke so you don’t lose it.
19. Money
Money, that stuff that makes the world go ’round, can also make your bike go ’round. Carry the coin of your realm (in paper form) in your pack. In addition to being useful to procure a post-ride beer and/or burrito, it can also be used as a tire boot.
20. Small but bright headlight
If there’s a chance you won’t make it home before nightfall a small light, just bright enough the illuminate your path, will lead you safely home.
A small bag, like this Backcountry Research Tülbag, will keep your smaller essentials in one tidy package
In sum, the items shown here weigh 1,560g (3.4lb) and are worth every gram.
That’s my list. What do you carry with you on all-day mountain bike rides?
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Diamondback 29er range grows
Diamondback’s collection of 29in-wheeled mountain bikes will continue to grow for MY2014, with two new platforms: the race-ready Overdrive Carbon built around a claimed 1kg (2.2lb) frame and a new 140mm travel Mason FS for riders who want to have a little more fun on the way down.
Overdrive Carbon
Diamondback impressed us in last year’s ‘Best mountain bikes under US$1,000‘ round-up with its Overdrive Comp – a bike that offered tremendous value and good handling but with a bit of a dull feel given its heavy aluminum frame and chunky wheels.
The new Overdrive Carbon models, however, look to retain that excellent value but with a new carbon fiber frame that supposedly weighs just 1kg (2.2lb) thanks to molding technology borrowed from the road-going Podium 7.
Frame shaping is straightforward, with roundish tubes throughout – an increasing number of companies are finding them to offer the most efficient use of material in terms of balancing weight and stiffness.
Overdrive Carbon
The tapered 1 1/8in to 1 1/2in head tube and PF30 bottom bracket shells are standard fare at this point, but kudos to Diamondback for including thru-axles front and rear.
Diamondback will offer the new Overdrive Carbon in three models, all using the same frame.
The Pro will have a SRAM X0 group, a 100mm travel Fox 32 Float CTD Factory Series fork with remote lever, Easton EA90 XC tubeless wheels, and Easton carbon cockpit components.
The Expert will have SRAM X7/X9, a Fox 32 Float CTD Evolution series fork with remote lever, WTB wheels, and Easton aluminum cockpit components. Lastly, the standard Overdrive Carbon will have SRAM X5/X7, the same fork but with a crown-mounted CTD dial, WTB wheels, and house brand finishing kit.
Post-mount rear caliper tabs are spaced for 160mm rotors
Expected availability is later this fall.
Mason FS
At the other end of the spectrum lies Diamondback’s new aluminum Mason FS, the full-suspension analogue of the company’s fun-loving Mason 29er hardtail. As with the original bike, the new FS will sport a slack geometry (including a 66.5-degree head tube angle) to aid high-speed stability, but with 140mm travel front and rear courtesy of the company’s long-standing Knucklebox swingarm design and a Fox 34 Float CTD fork.
Diamondback has supposedly stiffened up the rear end, too, with a stouter rear triangle and a forward linkage pivot that’s now integrated into the sides of the down tube.
The new Mason FS
Additional features include thru-axles front and rear, a tapered 1 1/8in to 1 1/2in head tube, a direct-mount front derailleur, and a threaded bottom bracket shell coupled with ISCG05 tabs for maximum crankset and chain guide compatibility.
Diamondback will offer the Mason FS in two flavors: the Pro, with a Kashima-coated Fox 34 Float 140 CTD fork, SRAM X0 group, Easton Haven wheels, a CrankBros Kronolog dropper post, and RaceFace Atlas finishing kit; and the standard Mason FS with SRAM X7/X9, RaceFace aluminum cranks, house brand wheels, and Easton finishing kit (including a fixed EA50 seatpost).
The top-end Mason FS features carbon cranks from RaceFace
As with the Overdrive Carbon, expected availability is later this fall. Retail prices for both the Overdrive Carbon and Mason FS are still being finalized.
For more information see www.diamondback.com.
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