Find it on Amazon!

In keeping with their position as a leader in LED light technology, Nite Rider designed the Sentry Aero 260 with COB (Chips On Board)  LED emitters. Two rows of very tiny LEDs mounted on strips no wider than a pencil put out 260 lumens of Daylight Visible red light. Paired to this efficient light is a Li-Po (Lithium Polymer) battery. While it doesn’t have the energy density of a Lithium Ion battery, it doesn’t need it either. Run times vary from 4.5 to 30 hours, at a mere 65 grams. So the LEDs and battery complement each other the way the Sentry Aero 260 complements the Lumina Dual 1800.

Lighting modes:

There are six mode in total – four flashing patterns, plus a continuous high and low. Pressing the tiny button on the top of the light cycles through them. Note that there is a rear-facing set of LEDs, and another set in the body. First up is all of them flashing together, for up to seven hours. Next is the rear flashing only, with the body on continuous for six and half hours. Then they alternate, like a police car, for up to seven and a half hours. Rounding out the flashing modes is a slow, pulsating flash for up to six hours. Finally, there is the high continuous for four and a half hours, or low for up to thirty hours. For continuous light, you’ll get six hours at 350 lumens, three hours at 700, and ninety minutes at 1500. As noted, all modes are controlled through a single top-mounted button. Your high school science teacher would like me to remind you that all run times are approximate, as battery state and ambient temperatures may cause variations. So don’t expect a full battery to perform the same in both summer and winter.

260 is for lumens, right?

Clearly, the 260 in the name refers to the light output, in lumens, right? Not so fast. The Sentry Aero 260’s shape isn’t strictly for aesthetics. Not only is it aerodynamic, but the extended profile allows for 260 degrees of visibility. See what those smart designers did there? Of course you did. So motorists will have a hard time not seeing you too. Can’t wrap your head around 260 degrees? No worries. Hold your arms straight out at both sides. That’s 180 degrees. Now try to put them as far behind you as possible, until you feel like your shoulder blades might touch. Yeah, that’s still not 260 degrees. This tail light will be visible from behind, and from the sides. For someone approaching you, they will see the light before you actually pass them in the opposite direction.

Design and features:

Honestly, I’m still stuck on the COB and Li-Po combination. Even with the rubber strap, this light’s overall weight will be appreciated by weight weenies. And it fits round posts and aero posts too. How? Well, Nite Rider really wants you to ride safe. So there’s a short strap for round posts, and a longer strap for aero posts. Swapping them takes about the same amount of time you just spent reading this sentence. Since they know it’s going on an aero post, they made it taper. Shave at least a second off your next criterium! Both the top button and bottom USB micro charging port are sealed, for an IP64 rating. That makes it safe in the rain and dusty conditions.

How do you charge it?

When you power it off, a blue light will flash to let you know it’s time to charge. You’ll want to pay attention to that. Inside the package, along with that extra strap, is a micro USB charging cable. So you won’t be stranded with a dead battery at work. Heck, even if you forget the cable, someone, somewhere, probably has a charger. And you’ll only need two and a half hours to fully charge the Sentry Aero 260.

What’s it like in actual use?

On the street, I mostly chose the flashing mode that reminds me of police car lights. I feel like that gets the most attention. For our bike trails, I just used the low continuous setting. I’d like to think that no one ever passes me, but it happens. Of course, it’s not like another cyclist wouldn’t notice me, with 350-700 lumens of bright light coming off my headlight. The point is that you have options. And really, this light is so bright, it’s annoying. Depending on time constraints and the weather, I can sneak in 30-60 minute rides on evenings and weekends. In mixed modes, that’s about a week between charges.

About that Daylight Visible Flash mode:

After struggling to get decent video of the Daylight Visible Flash mode,  I gave up. It’s very bright, yet my video footage doesn’t provide a “true-to-life” rendition of just how bright. I’m going to experiment more with that, but in the meantime, here is a still image. I shot this to show how the two strips of light work in tandem. The internal strip is behind a red diffuser, and both are covered with a clear outer lens. Imagine this, but bright like the sun. (I got a headache just trying to take some photos, it’s that bright)

Find it on Amazon!

Conclusion

This is usually where I wrap things up, and try to suggest who the target demographic might be. In this case, anyone who rides a bike on the street or bike paths can benefit from the Sentry Aero 260. It’s extremely visible, which can add to your safety. With a modest MSRP of $39.99, it’s quite affordable. (It’s even less on Amazon, click here) Runtimes are great, and you’ll likely never be too far from a charger. There are lower-priced options, but I don’t think you’ll get the output and the angle of coverage. So it’s a definite winner.

A special thanks to NiteRider for sending their Sentry Aero 260 for this review. If you’re interested in reading my review of the Lumina Dual 1800 as well, click here.

LED emitter and battery technology have been advancing at a pretty solid pace. About four years ago, I reviewed a similar light with an output of only 800 lumens. At the same price point, the Lumina Dual 1800 is putting out more than twice the light. Yes, it does this with two LEDs, but the runtimes remain almost equal. So it’s gotten quite a bit more efficient.

Here’s a breakdown of the output options:

For continuous light, you’ll get six hours at 350 lumens, three hours at 700, and ninety minutes at 1500. With a Boost (beast?) Mode that kicks it up to 1800 lumens, you’ll still get forty-five minutes. Then there are a couple of flash modes that provide ten or seventeen hours, and a walking mode good for twenty hours at 100 lumens. All modes are controlled through a single top-mounted button. Note that all run times are approximate, as battery state and ambient temperatures can cause them to vary.

What can you do with all that light?

Power is nothing if you can’t use it, right? Well, NiteRider didn’t just stuff in some bright LEDs and call it good. Instead, they used a reflector that gives you a focused center spot, with just the right amount of spill for your peripheral vision. That can equate to less drama in turns. For safety, the reflector wraps around the front edges, to offer some extra visibility from the sides too. Whether it’s a car or a tree, a dog or a deer, you’ll have fewer surprises. And even less when going straight at speed. I’ve only used the Lumina Dual 1800 on a commuter bike, but even with steep hills, I haven’t been able to outrun this light. When the weather cools off, I’ll test it on some trails. But with 1,000 lumens more than my current light, I know it’s going to turn night into day.

External design and features:

First, the styling is pretty sleek, and less industrial than some lights. Cooling fins are both functional and provide visual appeal. And the clamp is cool. It’s a simple oval with a rubber gripper insert. A decent thumbwheel makes it easy to tighten it, even with gloves. It locks down solid, and the light itself slides on and off with ease. But it stays in place when it’s on. That makes it commuter and MTB-friendly, regardless of bar size (up to 35mm). The bottom charging port and top button are both sealed, giving it an IP64 rating (it fears no rain, but cannot swim). Speaking of the top button, I love the simplicity of it. That one button allows you to cycle through all the modes, turn it on and off, lock it, or enable the boost. Simple = reliable. Usually.

But it’s not all rainbows and unicorns, is it?

With great power comes… small compromises? Put simply, you can’t get this output and runtime with a USB charger. Well, not with a three hour charge time. To that end, NiteRider includes an AC charger, which is a small price to pay. Also, that light is heat, which can be dangerous in your backpack, duffel, or other bag. So there is a lock mode, which prevents it from being turned on accidentally. And the light plus mount weighs 258 grams. Yes, that’s a bit over a half-pound. Again, that’s basically for a portable sun, so really, don’t complain.

What’s it like in actual use?

Once mounted, I took the Lumina Dual 1800 for a spin. It goes without saying that you should take the time to adjust the angle when on the street. The last thing you want to do is shine it into anyone’s eyes. Once I got the angle right, I took off for a quick loop on a local bike path. Doing so takes me through neighborhoods, under tree cover, and even through a tunnel. At the lower settings, there is more than enough output. Honestly, I think I caught a few other cyclists by surprise. They were probably expecting to be passed by a very quiet motorcycle. If you’re more about speed, the higher settings will not disappoint. Again, the beam pattern really reflects NiteRider’s experience with lights. Since my evening rides are only about 30-60 minutes, I could go days between charges, by varying the output during use.

More on the Daylight Visible Flash mode:

I found it nearly impossible to shoot decent video of the Daylight Visible Flash mode from a car, with the bike moving. Well, at least not safely. So the video below is static. But you get the idea. First half is the continuous/flash, the second half is just flashing. This was shot between 5 and 6 PM (commuter ride home time) on a sunny evening with high clouds.

 Find it on Amazon!

So who is it for?

With the massive output, this is just the ticket for MTB riders. But the long runtimes should also appeal to commuters. Or vice-versa. In other words, anyone looking for plenty of lumens and/or runtime will not be disappointed. NiteRider makes quality lights that last, and this one should be no exception. MSRP is $159.99, or click here for a better price on Amazon.

A special thanks to NiteRider for sending their Lumina Dual 1800 for this review. And check out the Sentry Aero 260 taillight review (coming 7/24), which complements this light perfectly.

Mini Roll-Top Bag

It’s like an enduro strap that you put your stuff in.  You know, so that it doesn’t get dirty. Or lost.

Find it on Amazon!

Wolf Tooth‘s new Mini Roll-Top Bag is a slightly smaller version of our popular Roll-Top Bag. A compact and flexible on-bike storage solution, it mounts almost anywhere to keep your spare tubes, tools, and snacks secure and protected from the elements. At 0.6L (36 cubic inches), the Mini RTB is perfectly sized for your wallet, food, or gear on shorter rides or commutes and streamlined enough to stay out of the way of those powerful legs of yours. Our silicone-backed hook-and-loop strap grips frame tubes and saddle rails securely while being easy to adjust or remove with cold, wet fingers.

• • 0.6L capacity for storage of phones, wallets, tools, food or other gear
  • Seam-sealed water resistant material and roll-top design protect contents from water and road grit
  • Generously-sized hook and loop, silicone-backed strap keeps bag securely in place on even large-diameter carbon tubes
  • Durable abrasion-resistant construction of PVC backed 420D ripstop nylon
  • Multiple mounting options -under saddle, on frame or to any B-RAD base (sold separately)
  • Available with or without a B-RAD mounting plate
  Available Now on Amazon!

  $34.95 – $39.95

  Strap Base

  You say you want more?

  

  More water for more miles and more adventure? Well, you‘ve come to the right place. Wolf Tooth‘s new B-RAD Strap Base is a versatile mount that allows riders to add a bottle cage where there once was none. The silicone-backed hook and loop straps are grippy and can easily be installed or re-positioned as needed. In addition, the Strap Base can function as a mini B-RAD base, offsetting existing bottle cage bosses by up to 22mm (.85 in) to make room for frame bags, piggyback shocks, or other accessories.

  • Silicone-backed hook and loop straps to keep base securely in place
  • Lightweight, durable, rustproof aircraft-grade aluminum with ED coated hardware
  • Only 33g
  Available Now on Amazon!

  $24.95

Flat Back Waistband

Lays smooth against your back to keep the shorts in place without bunching or binding. Mesh panel provides air flow and wicks away moisture.

Exact Fit Adjusters

Elastic straps with flexible low profile tabs pull back-to-front and secure with hook and loop closure, allowing you to fine-tune your ideal fit.

Stretch Fabric Panel 

Stretch fabric panel enhances range of motion, eradicates fabric sag to avoid seat hang-ups, and eliminates center seams that cause chafing. Our trademark innovation 25 years ago remains a core feature today.

Endurance Cut
Slim through the waist and hips with a straight leg; 13″ inseam engineered to fall just over the knee for pad coverage and style points. Less fabric + lighter fabric = lower weight.

Essential Data:
Ether One Shorts: $95.00
Ether One Shorts + Essential Liner: $110.00
Build Your Own Bike Shorts with choice of 6 liners only at ZOIC.com
Colors: Black, Grey Micro, Night
Sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2X, 3X
Available: NOW

Find it on Amazon!

The base

Yes, it’s all about that base. The original Pista was designed to be used with a single foot. While this made it a bit more compact, it wasn’t super stable. So the Plus here is for the extra stability from the new base, which allows for both feet, if desired. Note the high contrast, 220 PSI face on the large 64mm gauge as well. It’s accurate to within 2%, and very readable.

The handle

Although the cigar-shaped handle of the Pista was comfortable, the Pista Plus adds extra style and comfort. Check out the new handle, lathe-turned from ash, a wood so durable, it’s also used for baseball bats. Great ergonomics, good looks, and should outlast the owner.

The chuck

There is a lot to like about this simple, yet elegant chuck. First, the machine work is easy on the eyes, and the hands. That knurling makes an ideal gripping surface. You’ll notice it’s for Presta valves, but don’t panic. Simply unscrew the end to reveal the Schrader chuck. Got disc wheels? No worries, there’s a chuck available (at an extra cost) for them too. And the designers moved the clamp for the hose, so whichever chuck you choose, it stays in place when not in use. There’s even a handy little bleeder valve built in too, in case you need to let out some air.

Using it

If you’ve never used a Silca pump before, it might feel different. Inside the steel barrel is a 28mm Italian 731 leather washer, and German Igus linear bearings. Most other pumps have a plastic guide on the barrel, and a rubber plunger. Both of which will wear out, and can also add extra friction, which means more work. The Pista Plus is smooth, but feels a little mechanical. I had no issues getting over 100 PSI with little effort. The smaller barrel makes it easy to get high pressure, but does require more strokes for higher volume tires. Either way, it makes quick work of tire swaps, flats, or just topping up tires.

Find it on Amazon!

Warranty

Silca offers a warranty unlike any other, in just about any business. Read about it here. Short version: They’ve got your back. And with some products, they’ll even cover the stupid things we’ve all done at least once. I should note that I bought a spare hose, chuck, and even the leather washer for my old Silca Pista. After 14 years of use, it disappeared. But all original parts still worked when it went missing. So whoever stole my pump may need to rebuild it, but I never had to. Silca really is a “lifetime” purchase, and the Pista Plus is no exception.

Whether you are interested in the Pista Plus, the original Pista, or are considering the new digital version, you can find them all at Silca.cc.

A special thanks to Silca for sending out their Pista Plus for this review. I had some other pumps banging around the garage, but I know that the Pista Plus will outlast them all.

About Batch Bicycles

Batch Bicycles has something for everyone on Santa’s list, with affordable prices ranging from $89.99 to $489.99. These are not high-end bicycles, but they are not X-Mart bikes either. Assembled by trained bicycle mechanics, they actually work. Unlike the bottom of the barrel brands, your local bike shop will be more than happy to service them. Fact: many shops refuse to work on the inexpensive mass-market bikes. Why? Because the drivetrain, brakes, and suspension cannot be made to function properly. This is due to their low-quality components. Somewhere between those bikes, and the ones pushing $600 or more, is Batch Bicycles. They offer the following:

• • Kids bikes
  • Comfort bikes
  • Commuters
  • Cruisers
  • MTBs

Kids Balance Bike

Watch your child learn to explore their world. Balance Bike is designed without pedals, so kids can scoot along under their own power, with feet firmly planted on the ground. Watch their balance and confidence grow, along with their imagination.

• • Lightweight durable 6061 aluminum frame designed for stability
  • Aluminum fork blades with hi-tensile steel steerer tube for easy and confident steering
  • Children can use their feet to propel and stop as they learn balance and confidence
  • 10” plastic “mag” wheels and puncture proof EVA rubber tires
  • Colors: Batch Blue, Ignite Orange, or Pitch Black
  • Size: One size with an adjustable seat (rider height: 35” – 44”)
  • MSRP: $89.99

Kids Pedal Bikes

Explore the neighborhood, lay down a long skid, or pop a wheelie, kids bikes are crafted for fun. A durable and light aluminum frame, easy to steer handlebars, and an adjustable seat are all made with kids in mind enabling them to create their own cycling dreams.

• • Lightweight durable 6061 aluminum frame designed for stability
  • Aluminum fork blades with hi-tensile steel steerer tube for easy and confident steering
  • No gears – just single-speed simplicity
  • Easy to use rear coaster brake
  • Lightweight aluminum stem and high-rise handlebars for confidence building control
  • Colors: Batch Blue, Ignite Orange, or Pitch Black
  • Sizes: 12″ (rider height: 35” – 40”), 16” (rider height: 39” – 46”), and 20” (rider height: 45” – 52”). Each model has an adjustable seat height as well.
  • MSRP: 12″ ($174.99), 16″ ($184.99), 20″ ($194.99)

Commuter (Adult and Youth)

Whether the destination is the office, the grocery store, school, yoga studio or the coffee shop, make it “one less car” and ride the Batch Bicycles Commuter. Crafted of lightweight aluminum with Shimano 8-speed gearing and smooth-stopping disc brakes, it‘s a simple and comfortable way to travel. Comes equipped with fenders, comfortable hand grips, and a rear rack to gear. Available in Pitch Black for the stealthy look, and in adult and youth models.

• • Lightweight 6061 aluminum frame that‘s responsive to pedal and easy to carry up and down stairs
  • C-Star mechanical disc brakes provide smooth stopping power in all weather conditions
  • Shimano Altus 8-speed gearing makes it easy to ride on flat or hilly terrain
  • Stars alloy double-walled rims are lightweight and comfortable, but extremely durable (Wheel size optimized for best fit: 24” for youth, and 27.5” for adults)
  • MSRP: Youth ($469.99), Adult ($489.99)

Comfort (Adult)

Explore your world on a Batch Bicycles Comfort bike. Perfect for a leisurely weekend ride on the bike path or through the park. The Comfort bike has a comfortable seat and an upright riding position that allows you to put both feet on the ground when stopped. The bicycle is equipped with an easy-to-shift Shimano transmission, brakes that are smooth and predictable, fenders to protect you from the elements, and a reliable chain guard. Available women‘s or men‘s models in Batch Blue, Ignite Orange, or Pitch Black.

• Lightweight 6061 aluminum frame with laid back geometry and an upright position for a comfortable ride
• Hi-tensile steel fork for confident and smooth steering
• Reliable aluminum alloy linear pull brakes are easy to use and provide smooth stopping power
• Shimano RevoShift twist shifter connected to a Nexus 3-speed rear hub is easy to use
• Stars alloy double-walled rims are lightweight and comfortable, but extremely durable (Wheel size optimized for best fit: 26” for women, and 27.5” for men)
• MSRP: $429.99.

Cruiser (Adult and Youth)

Life flies by quickly but catching up is easy on the Batch Bicycles Cruiser. It‘ll put the wind – and a smile – on your face. The Cruiser features a lightweight aluminum frame, fenders, a comfortable seat with the simplicity of a single gear and coaster brake. No buttons. No gadgets. No bad rides. Available in youth and adult models.

• • Lightweight 6061 aluminum frame that‘s comfortable to ride
  • Easy-to-use rear coaster brake
  • Single-speed simplicity
  • Stars alloy double-walled rims are lightweight and comfortable, but extremely durable (Wheel size optimized for best fit: 24” for youth, 26” for women, and 27.5” for men)
  • Colors: Adult women’s 26″ – Ignite Orange and Pitch Black; Adult men’s 27.5″ – Batch Blue and Pitch Black; Youth 24″ – Ignite Orange and Pitch Black)
  • MSRP: Youth ($269.99), Adult ($289.99)

MTB (Adult and Youth)

Escape to the trails on a Batch Bicycles MTB. The rugged and lightweight aluminum frame is equipped with strong double-walled rims and rock-leveling front suspension. The 7-speed Shimano gearing helps conquer flowy single-track and moderate climbs. Use the Batch Bicycles MTB to explore and blaze new trails. Available in youth and adult models.

• • Lightweight 6061 aluminum frame for casual mountain biking and trail riding.
  • Suntour XCE28 100mm travel front suspension for control and off-road performance
  • Reliable aluminum alloy linear pull brakes are easy to control and provide quick stopping power
  • Rugged Shimano Tourney 7-speed components make it easy to find the right gear for any terrain
  • Stars alloy double-walled rims are light and extremely durable (Wheel size optimized for best fit: 24” for youth, 27.5”, and 29” for adults)
  • MSRP: Youth ($399.99), Adult ($429.99)

You can purchase Batch Bicycles at your favorite local bike shop, or at batchbicycles.com. Check the Apple Store or Google Play for the app, and order that way too. Bikes ordered online or on the app will be delivered within two to three days to a local bike shop of the gift giver‘s choosing for assembly and pick up.

Bad puns aside, these are some handy lights for the casual cyclist. With their simple mount, durable alloy shell, bright LED bulbs, and wallet-friendly price, you can’t go wrong. To be clear, they are not for lighting your way. The front white LED is bright, but not bright enough to illuminate road debris at speed. Instead, they provide a little extra protection in the form of visibility when you’re riding at the edge of light and darkness.

Installation

After removing the plastic battery protector installed during shipping, installation is easy. Pull the stretchy rubber band around your handlebar or seatpost, and let the hook catch in one of the holes. Installation complete. You may need to spend a moment making sure the front one is level, and the rear is not pointed off to one side, but that’s about it.

Controls

Instead of a switch that could get bumped by accident, the lens is also the switch. Press once for fast flashing, again for slower flashing, a third time for continuous light, and once more to turn off. In my opinion, this is really clever. Besides making it more difficult to accidentally drain the batteries, it’s less moving parts.

In use

Most of our riding is done on a bike path, but I do ride on the streets, sometimes later than I should. And that’s when I use this light set. While no output is listed, the front is bright enough that I can see it reflected off stop signs from more than 100 feet away. Despite the super quiet stealthiness of my Brooklyn Bicycle Co. Bedford 3, a group of kids watched me approach from a distance. I thought that was odd, until I realized that the white LED probably stood out long before they could see I was on a bike. As far as run time, I’ve used them for many evenings over the last several months, and have not had to change the batteries yet.

Conclusion

For $19.99, this light set is perfect for casual cyclists. Even better, the set shows as being on sale for $15.99 as I was preparing to publish this review. Although you could buy them separately for $11.99 each, it doesn’t make sense to. Just get the pair. Check them out at BrooklynBicycleCo.com.

A special thanks to Brooklyn Bicycle Co. for providing this set of lights for review. They are a much-appreciated accessory.

Background

Although most cyclists might not be aware, SKS Germany doesn’t just serve the bicycle industry. They also produce parts for the automotive industry, notably BMW. Employees of another local company, also in that industry, approached SKS. While they make lubricants for cars, they were also keen cyclists. So they came up with their own chain lube. SKS improved upon their concept with a new applicator. This patented applicator is hands-free, and effective.

The lube

LUBE YOUR CHAIN is solvent-free, and PTFE-based. That’s polytetrafluoroethylene, which is more familiar to us under the brand name Teflon. Slippery stuff, PTFE is hydrophobic, so it repels water. It’s also very good at protecting metal. When applied as a liquid, it can reduce friction and wear. Plus, it can quiet your drivetrain.

The applicator

As you can see in the video below, the applicator is unlike most “drip” bottles. Instead, you just press it against the chain, and a small “button” of sorts gets pushed in by each link, dispensing some lube. You can count on keeping your hands clean when using it. A tight-fitting cap prevents leaks when not in use. Each bottle contains enough lube for about 75 applications, and retails for under $15.

Applying LUBE YOUR CHAIN

Like any other chain lube, you need to apply it to a clean chain. So perform your usual cleaning routine first, and make sure the chain is dry. Shake the bottle well, to mix it up. Then, with my bike on the repair stand, I just hold the applicator with one hand, and backpedal with the other. My daughter was kind enough to demonstrate for some photos. It’s really easy to coat the chain, and get the oil down into the links. If you’re used to wiping off excess, you may be disappointed. Not much waste here. And if you’ve been applying the stuff that takes a while to dry, well, no waiting for that either.

Results

On my city bike, the drivetrain was already pretty quiet. A three-speed IGH isn’t exactly noisy to begin with. But it seemed more noticeable on my MTB. And over time, it transfers to the cassette and chainrings, which helps distribute it even more. After shifting across the range many times, everything was smoother. Pf course, I’m usually more concerned about the elements than just wearing out chains with a lot of miles. With LUBE YOUR CHAIN, I feel more protected from the dusty conditions, light rain, and occasional snow that I ride in.

Conclusion

I’ll have to follow up after I have been able to use LUBE YOUR CHAIN for several months. But so far, it’s been easy to apply, and on at least one bike, seems to have made a definite difference. While I’m usually a skeptic, and not one to buy into hype, SKS is a brand that I have known and trusted for years. So I don’t expect that they will let me down. Check out their products (like my sweet fender set) at SKS-Germany.com.

A special to thanks to SKS Germany for providing their product for review.

Construction

Polished stainless steel not only looks great, but is quite strong. Yes, aluminum might save a few ounces, but it’s a rack for carrying cargo. So strength and durability are first and foremost. Besides, whatever cargo you’re carrying will far outweigh those few ounces. All the hardware seems to be stainless too. Polished screws with polished washers up top. To complement that stainless steel, the slats are wood, stained a medium brown. I’m a little disappointed that the stain wasn’t applied evenly on the edges, but it’s not a dealbreaker. Overall, it’s a very stylish look, and suits my bike well.

Installation

Brooklyn Bicycle Co. recommends professional installation of this rack. Whether you can do it yourself will depend on your skills and some basic tools. It attaches at the fork crown, and the braze-ons. You’ll need to (temporarily) unbolt the front brake, and also possibly cut the lower legs of the rack to length. The single biggest issue is cutting it down to size where it mounts above your fork axle. As mentioned, the rack is sturdy, so cutting through some thick stainless steel isn’t so easy. While a hacksaw would do it, I used a small cutoff wheel on a Dremel-style tool. Then, I touched up the sharp edges with a file. After that, it’s a matter of bolting it on at the fork crown, and the braze-ons. Finally, level it, and tighten everything down.

In use

Once installed, I went for a test ride. Turns out there was a slight rattle, but tightening all the hardware solved that. Although no weight rating is given, I feel this rack could support more than I would want to carry. My camera bag and drone case both fit well. So did one of those soft lunchbox/bags. And food to go from our favorite Mexican and Italian restaurants, which are only 10 blocks away, and next to each other. I’m on the lookout for a proper picnic basket too. If you’re considering using the rack for groceries, it won’t disappoint either. Being able to keep an eye on your cargo (as opposed to a rear rack) is another plus. Just be sure to get a selection of lightweight bungee cords to keep things secure. While I didn’t find it any more difficult to ride with some weight over the front wheel, if it shifted, that could create a hazard.

Conclusion

As mentioned, this is my first front rack. I’ve used panniers and a trunk bag to avoid wearing a backpack. And it always made me nervous to have my gear out of sight, even if it was right behind me. This rack changes that. When my bag contains expensive camera gear and my wife’s medication, I’m less anxious with it in view. That’s worth a lot to me. After doing a quick internet search, I’d say that this rack is priced more than fairly at $69.99. Smaller metal racks are in the same range. Or you could spend nearly double that for a metal and wood rack from other companies. But I don’t think you’d get twice the value. And it fits bikes with 26″ or 700C wheels, which means not just those from Brooklyn Bicycle Co., but plenty of other brands too. If you’re looking for a stylish way to transport stuff on your bike, it’s a solid choice. BrooklynBicycleCo.com.

Although we did purchase our bicycles, Brooklyn Bicycle Co. provided their Front Bike Rack at no charge for this review.

Description

This welded steel carrier is designed to fit both 1-1/4″ and 2″ receivers. With the included lock, you can leave it installed without fear of theft. When not in use, the arms fold down, making it slightly more compact. Thanks to the tilting mechanism, you can access your trunk, hatch, or lift-gate with ease.

Assembly

It only took two of us a few minutes to assemble the rack with a couple of wrenches. Actually, it’s really a one-person job. But I happened to have a friend over that day. If you can follow simple directions and have at least two adjustable wrenches, you can do it. Three bolts, three nuts, a retaining clip, and you’re ready to go. Once it’s in your receiver, twisting the lock wedges it in tightly. Remove the key, and you’re done.

Loading bikes

With the rack installed, loading bikes is simple. The heavier bike goes on first, drivetrain facing you. While bikes should be loaded facing alternate directions, there is room enough on the three bike rack to have two of them face the same way. Well, as long as your handlebars aren’t too wide, and you only load two. Your results may vary. Allen’s patented tie-downs are easy to use, and a good start for securing your bike. They also sell a variety of extra straps and even an adaptor bar for women’s frames. We didn’t think to ask for extra straps, but bungee cords get the job done too. That kept things rattle-free, even at freeway speeds. Not once did we feel our bikes weren’t secure.

Access

On a compact sedan or small SUV, we found that the tilting mechanism gave us easy access to the trunk or cargo area. Getting the retaining clip out was the most difficult part. And really, that wasn’t all that hard. Just remember to ensure the clip is back in place once the rack is returned to the upright position.

Conclusion

The Deluxe Locking 3 Bike Hitch Carrier from Allen Sports is a rare product in today’s market. It’s priced very well, and appears to be quite durable. We found it easy to assemble, quick to install, and simple to load and unload bike on to. Sure, you could pay double or even more for a similar rack. But I don’t think you’ll gain much in quality, usability, or features. It even comes with a limited lifetime warranty, backed by a company that got its start in 1967. Check out AllenSportsUSA for more of their products.

We’d like to thank Allen Sports for providing their excellent bike carrier for this review. We’re actually putting it into rotation with our contributors, to see how it holds up over an extended review period.

Based on photos from my childhood, I’ve been riding bicycles for 43 years, give or take a few months. During that time, I rode for many reasons.  As a youngster, it’s how we got around the neighborhood. Why walk, when you could get to your friend’s house in a fraction of the time on two wheels? And we explored the woods around us. That included speeding through the Civil War cemetery that was surely haunted. If we hadn’t moved, I’m certain I would have worn the tires off that little yellow bike.

Arriving in California in the mid-70s, I embraced BMX. It was in its infancy. One day, the Schwinn with a banana seat was all the rage, and then the Scrambler was the next big thing. I didn’t realize at the time, but I lived in the epicenter of BMX. Mongoose was 20 miles away, in Chatsworth. My brother briefly worked at Redline, and a schoolmate’s family owned Jag. Another friend’s dad welded Landing Gear for SE Racing. Visiting local tracks, I was riding with kids whose families were the backbone of the industry at the time. My Mongoose and then Redline were how I got to school, baseball practice, and every place else.

Even after getting my license in the 80s, I was still riding my BMX bike around. That changed at graduation, when my mom bought me my first mountain bike. It was a Nishiki Ariel, from Supergo. This was 1987, so Rockshox and CamelBak weren’t even invented yet. We rode fully rigid bikes with elliptical chainrings and sketchy brakes. Climbing hills we would have had to walk on our BMX bikes was a gamechanger. Bombing down fire roads with reckless abandon was an adrenaline rush. Eventually, I got a Trek when the Ariel got stolen, but still no suspension.

And then I got introduced to road bikes. A friend’s mom was a frequent Race Across America competitor, and they had a few spare parts in the garage. Well, dozens of bikes in parts. Building up a Ciocc and Basso, I enjoyed 2×5, 2×6, and I think even 2×7 speeds. “Twelve speed” meant something different back then. Later, I owned a Trek, Cannondale, and even a Felt. While I enjoyed the social aspect of riding with my brother and some friends, it wasn’t the same thrill I got from a mountain bike.

Returning to my fatter tire roots, I bought another MTB – the Cannondale Super V. Creaky, and questionable efficiency, it didn’t last long. Another industry friend hooked me up with a full suspension frame from Park-Pre. They had gone out of business, but he had a non-production frame with a Horst link rear suspension and Fox shock. Although it was an ugly mix of straight and rectangular tubing, it rode great. Paired with a Manitou Air fork, I had a light bike that was fast through the rough stuff. And I went fast on that bike. When looking for a good way to describe it, “crashingest” comes to mind. How many “over the bars” experiences, did I have?  I got to the point where I would instinctively reach back to catch the seat before it hit me in the head.

Heading into my mid-30s, I ended up racing BMX in Australia. Around that time, I also built my dream bike. After months of back and forth with the builder, I took delivery of a tandem MTB frame, in titanium. Building that up was made easier by a trip back to states. We returned with 22 pieces of luggage (for five of us). That’s a lot of parts. I’m sure my dad was relieved not to have to make his weekly trips to the Post Office, to send me spares.

Of course, we lived a very short distance from the beach at the time. So the very same day that I started my first bike shop job, I did the unthinkable. We took a bus across town, and picked up two Electra cruisers from my new employer’s competitor. Although I rode different bikes to my day job, and my part-time job at Hadley’s in Lambton, I never did ride that cruiser to work.

Returning to the ‘Merica!, I ended up in Utah. No more year-round cycling. I sold off a few of my 8 bicycles, but still rode a bit. Dabbled in cyclocross and single speeds, plus one fixed gear. Increasing responsibility at work, life (and wife) changes, meant less ride time. Cycling lost out to motorcycles for a few years. But Utah drivers spoiled motorcycles for me, and I put more miles on my fat bike than my Harley the last year I owned both.

My wife and I bought a new home this year. Luckily, we have less traffic in our new location. More importantly, a bike path weaves through our neighborhood. Naturally, this compelled me to get us some new bicycles, suited for the slow pace of evening rides along the river. And each time we go out for a ride, I realize that one thing never changes – bicycles are fun. Better than walking, and easier on these old joints and wrecked knees. Plus that breeze in your face. If you haven’t ridden lately, go for a ride. Because you can ride to school, work, or competitively. But nothing beats a good ride for the sheer joy of it.

Brooklyn Bicycle Co. Bedford 3 ($449.99)

While we would have been happy with the $399.99 single speed versions, an extra $50 for the Shimano 3 speed hub made more sense. Combined with a lightweight steel frame, it just rocks. Although some of their models are 4130 chromoly, this frame is hi-ten steel. Still, it doesn’t feel mushy when I stomp the pedals like cheaper steel bikes do. Any weight penalty over aluminum is far offset by the way it absorbs bumps and vibrations. Once again, I am reminded that steel is real.

When it comes to details, they didn’t skimp either. For comfort, contact points include Selle Royal vegan leather saddle and grips. For weight savings (and looks), the bars, stem, seatpost/clamp, and cranks are aluminum. Extra points for the matching chainguard and a kickstand. Headset bearings are caged bearings with a weather seal, but the front hub gets sealed bearings. Shifting the Shimano Nexus 3 speed hub is their Revo 3-speed shifter. Hubs are laced to 32 hole double wall rims with 14 gauge stainless spokes. It rolls on 700×32 puncture resistant tires, and it’s all brought to a stop by Tektro levers and brakes.

If there was any disappointment, it was the pedals. Not the smoothest bearings, but they’ll do. Being a bike intended for city use, maybe that’s not a concern. Naturally, it does have a full set of braze-ons. When you’re ready, it’s all set for front and rear racks and fenders. I’m not sure anyone uses water bottles anymore, but you can mount one of them too. Colors include army green, matte black, and ivory (my choice). Weight is around 28-30 pounds.

Brooklyn Bicycle Co. Franklin 3 ($449.99)

Many of the details are shared between the two bikes. This includes the frame material and drivetrain. Although the S/M sized Franklin does have 26″x1.375″ tires on 26″ rims. If you get the large frame, you’ll be rolling on 700×35 tires. Of course, the ladies bike includes color matched fenders and a full-length chainguard. Both also have a sealed bottom bracket, and heavy duty KMC chain. In what is surely a nod to fashion, the ladies get more color choices too. There’s matte coral, cardinal red, ivory, and sea glass, which is a greenish-blue (my wife’s choice).

The buying experience

If you’re not local to Brooklyn Bicycle Co., no worries. They will ship your bike to a bike shop near you. Once it arrives, your local shop completes the assembly before you pick it up. I’m a fan of this model, as not everyone wants to assemble their own bike. Equally important, I think all cyclists should build a good relationship with at least one local shop. Buying online can be great, but a good shop stocks the basics, performs maintenance, and organizes group events. So support your local business too.

The ride. It’s all about the ride

Because we just got our bikes, we haven’t racked up many miles yet. And since my wife is strictly in it for fun and fitness*, I try to avoid peeking at any apps on my phone. What I can say is that even with multiple hand and shoulder surgeries, plus a back injury, my wife still finds her Franklin 3 to be quite comfortable. Coming from an aluminum bike, I tend to agree. And despite not wanting to mess with a geared bike, the Nexus 3 seems to suit her. Our favorite path has a whopping 120 feet of elevation change, so she doesn’t shift much anyway.

On our out and back loop, we’ve already come to appreciate the relaxed pace they afford. Gearing is just right, and the brakes are sufficient for emergency stops. Steering stays on center with ease, but you can still cut a quick corner. Speaking of quick, we clocked an even 20 MPH on flat ground sprinting past our local police radar trailer.

In addition to the bikes, we got a few accessories from Brooklyn Bicycle Co. So we’ll introduce those in a future article. In the meantime, we’re going get some more ride time in. If you have any questions, please share them below.

And a special thanks to Ryan at Brooklyn Bicycle Co. for hooking us up with a deal on the pair of bikes. I can’t think of a better gift as we celebrate another year together.

*She’s downloaded MapMyRide, so I guess she’s ready to start measuring pace and distance.

Prestacycle TorqRatchet

First up is the TorqRatchet. Back in the days of steel bikes, any ham-fisted mechanic could work on them. Because overtightening was not an issue. When aluminum became more common, torque specs became more of a concern. With the introduction of carbon fiber and other composites, proper torque is critical. Now, I’ve had $100 and $300 torque wrenches at my disposal. But does the average cyclist want or need a tool that expensive just to swap stems or adjust their levers? Nyet, comrade.

Find it on Amazon!

So how about a $49.95 torque wrench, or $59.95, with 20 bits? That’s more reasonable. Even better is how the TorqRatchet addresses certain torque wrench concerns. If you drop one of those expensive “click-type” torque wrenches, you’ll forever wonder if it’s now out of calibration. So the TorqRatchet uses a variation of the “pointer-type” design, where tension on a bar moves a pointer along a calibrated scale from 2-10Nm. And it’s good for 5,000 cycles before you need to have the calibration checked. Just as important, at 5.25 inches, and 68 grams, it’s light and compact. If you’re taking a new bike or components for a test ride, touring, or doing an epic MTB ride, just take the wrench with you.

Using the TorqRatchet is super easy, as it takes any standard 1/4″ drive bit. Do yourself a favor and spend the extra $10 for the cycling-specific 20 bit set though. Either way, they don’t fall out – there’s no magnet, so I’m sure it’s magic. Patented magic. You can start things with the thumb wheel, then tighten up to 60Nm with the handle. Switch the lever for loosening. Pretty standard stuff. For torque-critical fasteners, partially tighten them first. Then grasp the black knob on the end of the wrench, and holding just that, tighten things down. You’ll see the white arrow move across the scale. When it points to the desired torque, you’re done. No dials to twist, nothing to set. Less moving parts means less things to go wrong.

Pros and cons

Obviously, the pros here are numerous. Price, weight, flexibility, and utility top that list. For far less than what I paid for my somewhat delicate torque wrench, I can get the TorqRatchet with a full set of bits. And it’s a fraction of the size and weight. I’d have to use the TorqRatchet on 100 fasteners per week for a year before it would require calibration again. For the home mechanic or enthusiast, this tool would probably pay for itself the first time you swap out your bars yourself, rather than paying your local shop. Not that I discourage you from supporting your LBS – I just feel we should all know how to work on our own bikes.

Prestacycle T-Handle Ratchet

What if you work on your bike, but don’t need a torque wrench? Maybe you’ve already got one, or like me, your all-steel city bike lacks carbon fiber parts that require extra care. Well, Prestacycle has you covered there too. Their T-Handle Ratchet is a regular ratchet, with a twist. (See what I did there?) It functions just like a regular 1/4″ bit driver. Same thumb wheel for starting or loosening things. Same lever for reversing the ratchet action. The difference is the extension bar – it’s not just for hard to reach spots. Push it through the ratchet head, and then you’ll realize why the ratchet handle has a hole for bits on the bottom. Now, you can use it as a t-handle wrench.

Find it on Amazon!

Have you priced a good set of “T” wrenches lately? You’d be in over $100 for your hex and torx sets. But the T-Handle Ratchet sells for $39.95 with the extension and 20 bicycle-specific bits. If you’ve already got a good set of bits, it’s $29.95 for the ratchet and extension. And what about portability? Who wants to carry that set of wrenches? Two of them probably weigh more than the 88 grams of the ratchet with extension. Throw in your bits, and you’re still nowhere near the weight of the wrench set, but you’ve got the same amount of utility.

Pros and cons

Like the TorqRatchet, the pros here are numerous and obvious. For instance, I recently installed a front rack on one of my bikes. This required two bolts on the underside of the rack, just above the front wheel. Sure, I could have removed the front wheel (nutted 15mm bolts on the axle) and used my old t-handle wrench. Instead, I was able to slip the ratchet under there, get it started with the thumb wheel, and snug things down. I like saving time. Which brings me to the one and only con I could find. In my old workflow, t-handles and 3-way wrenches are readily available. So swapping bits does slow me down. But we’re only talking about a few seconds here and there. And the portability more than balances that out.

To see all the cool tools available from Prestacycle, including their awesome tire levers, visit their website, Prestacycle.com.

I’d like to thank David at Prestacycle for providing their latest tools for this review. I’ve been using various Prestacycle tools for over 6 years now, and their continued innovation always impresses me. I don’t think there is a better value out there, and certainly, nothing as portable.

Brian

SAGE Titanium Bicycles Skyline Project Bike ‘” $20,000 One-Off Road Bike Tips the Scales at Just 13.2 Lbs

Portland‘s SAGE Titanium Bicycles debuted their Skyline Project bike at the 2018 Sea Otter event. The Skyline Project bike was built to push the boundaries of the exotic by utilizing the incredible components from THM Carbones and Lightweight Wheels. The Skyline Project bike utilizes THM Carbones components for the stem, brake calipers, cranks and bottom bracket, as well as the custom painted fork. Lightweight wheels provide their Meilenstein Obermayer Weiss Edition tubular wheels, custom Selle Italia SLR saddle and custom bar tape. The SRAM Red eTap drivetrain, Cane Creek AER headset, and the 3T Zero25 Team Stealth seatpost and 3T Limited handlebar all help bring the weight of this incredible machine down to 13.2lbs with a size 54cm frame. The one-off, never to be duplicated ever again, custom paint job adds the final touch of class to this amazing build. With a design that blends refined simplicity and outright performance, the Skyline occupies an enviable niche in the cycling world. It climbs mountains as confidently as it rips sinuous descents, and it launches snappy attacks without compromising comfort on all-day adventures. It‘s a looker in the showroom that shines even brighter out on the road. MSRP $20,000. For more information on SAGE Titanium Bicycles, visit www.sagetitanium.com.

 Gallery of Skyline Project Bike is here ‘” https://bit.ly/2IDdYmL

• Frame: Sage Skyline 54cm, custom one-off paint
• Fork: THM Carbones Scapula SE fork with one-off paint
• Headset: Cane Creek AER Headset and AER Headset Spacers
• Stem: THM Carbones Tibia Stem
• Handlebar: 3T Limited SuperLeggera
• Bar Tape: Lightweight custom bar tape
• Seatpost: 3T Zero25 Team Stealth Seatpost
• Saddle: Lightweight custom Selle Italia SLR saddle
• Drivetrain: SRAM Red eTap
• Brakes: THM Carbones Fibula Brake Calipers
• Chain: KMC DLC11 Chain- Black
• Cranks: THM Carbones Clavicula SE Cranks with Praxis Chainrings
• Bottom Bracket: THM Carbones 68mm English Threaded BB
• Cassette: SRAM Red XG-1190 11-25 Cassette
• Wheels: Lightweight Meilenstein Obermayer Weiss Edition tubular wheels
• Tires: Vittoria Corsa Speed G+ Tires: 23mm
• MSRP $20,000