Ibis Mojo SL - can it seduce you ?

It is not always the case that using heavy equipment also means to make a compromise in terms of weight.

There are several examples for light all terrain mountainbikes. One of them is the Ibis Mojo SL, which we already tested in a normal setup last summer. So the question is: Is there a difference between those two ? Will the reduced weight have an impact on the overall performance ? This review will try to give some answers.

The SL tag obviously stands for Super Light and for a bike with a rear travel of 140mm, weighting 2230g including the DT Swiss shock made of carbon in frame size M, this is more than true. Based on this frame, it should be easily possible to create a bike which beats the 10kg mark by far. Tri-Cycles - distributor of Ibis in Germany - equipped the bike with a set of components similar to the one we tested on the regular Mojo, enabling us to concentrate on the differences of the frame itself and to draw direct parallels.

The core of the frame is clearly the top-of-the-line model from DT Swiss. Casing made of carbon, lockout lever made of titanium and just over 160g in the 200mm long version. The lockout worked reliable and was easy to operate while riding on ascents or tarmac. Even though it worked flawlessly, in direct comparison to the FOX damper system it fell behind. The main reason was, that the rear end could not eliminate all of the pedal-induced movements when the shock was open. So we had to use the lockout quite often to ensure an efficient motion transmission. 1:0 for the heavier brother.

No experiments with the shift componentry, only well proven XTR parts were allowed to handle the gear changes, including the new shadow rear derailleur. Also the wheels and disc brakes of the 2007 XTR were used, combining perfect function and extraordinary durability. The only fact we might want to criticize is the use of a 160mm disc at the front, which - from our perspective - does not correspond with the bike’s potential.

Despite this minor flaw the rides on our home trails were quite entertaining. When riding uphill the bike climbed those gradients with ease, just to rock down the other side furiously. A rear and front travel of 140mm makes a ride on challenging trails and downhills almost to a walk in the park. The steering was very sensitive and subtle steering adjustments were made easy. Occasionally we got the impression not to overstrain the small carbon damper, but these fears were nedlessly, even during long, intensive downhills the rear shock performed well.

True eye catchers of the Mojo SL are the anodized components, especially because of the matt frame coating, what makes them stand out even more. The frame coatings offered are rubberpaint clear, brown and grey, obviously not too many options. Striking colors like the nuclear peso green or eddy orange are only offered - without surcharge - for the regular Mojo.

At the front end the bike uses the excellent FOX F32 rlc fork, which is certainly not lightweight with over 1800g. But its performance countervails that more than adequate, its suspension and damping is superior to models with less weight and therefore fits in the concept of the bike very nicely. Additionally the fork allows to adjust the travel from 140mm to 100mm in 2 steps, so the comparison to models like the RS SID seems more than inadequate.

The Shimano brake and RapidFire levers are mounted on a MonkeyLite SL handlebar from Easton, which ensures total steering control over the bike.

Quite unusual for this kind of mountainbike is the usage of a full integrated headset, which is delivered by Cane Creek. During our testing period, there were no problems to report.

The seating zone consists of an Easton EC90 Zero seatpost paired with a comfortable Aliante saddle from Fi:zik.

The Ibis logo is not only a decal but a machined aluminium part which is riveted into the massive headtube of the frame.

The frameset ( equipped with the DT Swiss rear shock ) has an MSRP of $2,499.

Surprisingly well performed the Nevagal tires of Kenda in a special John Tomac edition. Despite a catastrophic weight of 630g in size 2.1′, the tire offered a substantial amount of grip even in borderline conditions. However the tires would be the first spot to shed weight without sacrificing reliability and performance for reaching the 10kg mark.

Further impressions:

Conclusion: Ibis sets a certain course with the Mojo SL, but failed distancing it clearly from the heavier brother. Setting the top priority on weight, the answer is clear: get the SL. If you want the optimal suspension performance you should have a look at the regular version with the FOX rear shock. That’s why we perceive the Ibis as a must buy, alone based on the fact of its noble finish and uncommon frame shape. And like Austin Powers always said: “What am I without my Mojo ?”

Shimano Dura Ace 7900 - 2009

All cyclist interested in their components have been waiting eagerly for new information about the Shimano lineup for 2009, after several prototypes have already been spotted in the pro peloton since the spring. Many rumors occured about the technical specifications and new features, but many were - obviously - especially interested in the new optics of the premium group from the guys based in Osaka.

Since several weeks we already had the answers to those questions up our sleeves, but were not allowed to show them. Now we can finally share the pictures, which were taken during an official product presentation some while ago, enjoy:

RD-7900 (Rear derailleur with carbon cage)

FC-7900 (standard crankset 53/39)

FC-7950 (compact crankset 50/34)

ST-7900 (STI lever)

BR-7900 (rearbrake)

The electronic Version 7970 will be presented in a couple of weeks. Further technical information and high resolution pictures of the several components will be published with the official press release. For sure, you will find it here on light-bikes.de .

Press Release from Shimano North America:
Shimano introduces the all new 7900 series Dura-Ace. The new mechanical Dura-Ace group loses over 135g while maintaining it’s legendary durability and improving performance and ergonomics.

Since 1973, Shimano’s Dura-Ace components have been at the forefront of pro racing and pro-level technology. Dura-Ace has continued its legacy of being proven in the peloton as well as serving as a launch pad for new technologies. Index shifting (SIS), integrated brake and shift levers (STI), and hollow forged cranks (Hollowtech II) have set Shimano’s Dura-Ace as the benchmark in road bike componentry.
FC-7900 Dura-Ace Crankset

The iconic Hollowtech II hollow forged crank has always been a benchmark for strength to weight performance characteristics and is the perfect platform for a crank intended to be used at the highest echelon of competition. Combined with a hollow outer chainring the crankset is 20% stiffer for optimal power transfer while still saving 15 grams. Other changes include redesigned chainring teeth for better contact and power transfer. Improved bottom bracket seals further reduce contamination and friction.

New for 2009, Shimano will also carry a Dura-Ace level compact crankset.


ST-7900 Dura-Ace Dual Control Levers


The new STI Dual Control levers offer a refined ergonomic shape while reducing the weight by over 40 grams. With a Shimano first, the new STI levers offer unidirectional carbon fiber lever blades which reduce weight and offer shift cables hidden under the handlebar tape for a more sleek design. Using a revised internal mechanism along with PTFE lined casing, the shifting is still as light as ever.

Shifting stroke for the rear derailleur has been reduced by 20% for quicker shifts and a built in reach adjuster allows for fine tuning the fit for riders with smaller hands.

The shifters continue to have integrated controls for the all new FlightDeck computer (SC-7900), which has been updated to include heart rate, altitude, grade, cadence, gear position, and directly downloadable data via a wireless connection. The new SC-7900 is completely wireless.

CN-7900 Dura-Ace Chain

The new asymmetric design of the Dura-Ace chain has redesigned plates that improve the contact interface with the cogs and reduce the chance for chain suck on the chainrings. Other improvements to the links provide greater durability and life with less noise and smoother function. The chain uses hollow pins and weight drops by over 18 grams even with the addition of a quick connection / removal link. A departure from the traditional Hyperglide connection pin, the SM-CN79 quicklink provides a reusable connection and removal point for the chain. The quicklink can be used on any Shimano 10-speed chain and the new chain can also be joined by a traditional Hyperglide 10-speed connection pin if necessary.
RD-7900 Dura-Ace Rear Derailleur

With a new carbon fiber rear pulley cage, the rear derailleur loses another 16 grams while maintaining durability and improving performance. The new design is compatible with wider range cogsets and can accommodate a maximum 28 tooth cog. The available wider range creates even better compatibility with compact cranksets.
FD-7900 Dura-Ace Front Derailleur


The new Dura-Ace front derailleur cage eliminates the need to manually trim the front shifting. Additionally, the redesigned, more efficient wide linkage and optimized spring tension combine for reduced shifting effort.
BR-7900 Dura-Ace Brakes
Increased linear response, improved braking power, and reduced weight all make their way into the latest version of the Dura-Ace brakes. A new brake pad compound doubles wet condition performance, while also improving dry power by 20%. Enhanced linear response comes from a redesigned caliper arch while a lower profile cable stop creates better lines for the cables and reduces cable friction. While other brakes ditch sensible features like a spring tension adjuster or adjustable toe, the new Dura-Ace brakes still come equipped with those features and manage to drop nearly 30 grams per pair.
FH-7900 / HB-7900 Dura-Ace Freehub and Front Hub


Both the hub and freehub body have evolved to designs that improve rigidity for efficient power transfer and quick handling. The bearings have been updated with a new tool-free bearing adjuster for quick bearing adjustments. The freehub continues with the durable titanium shell and quick engagement internals.
CS-7900 Dura-Ace Cassette

Shifting has been even further improved by creating an even more rigid (and lighter) aluminum carrier unit along with re-engineered teeth profile. Cassette design is lighter as Shimano has developed a super lightweight and rigid aluminum cassette sprocket carrier. The largest four cogs are titanium and weight is reduced by 10 grams. Available combinations will be: 11-21T, 11-23T, 11-25T, 11-27T, 11-28T, 12-23T, 12-25T, 12-27T.

True to tradition, Dura-Ace 7900 combines new technologies with features relevant to the highest levels of competition.
Available Fall 2008



Interchangeability: DURA ACE (7800 series) and new DURA-ACE (7900 series).

Press Release from Shimano Europe:
New DURA-ACE: “Evolution of Perfection”

Shimano is introducing the new DURA-ACE 7900 series that sets a new benchmark in top-level road racing components. Shimano has combined all of its engineering resources with the latest technology to realize an increased level of perfection that will benefit professional riders as well as road racing enthusiasts. Besides offering a further improved performance and an attractive design, the weight is reduced significantly.

Crankset
The seventh generation DURA-ACE group introduces revolutionary technology into the road racing scene. Highlight is the HOLLOWTECH II crankset that combines an attractive aerodynamic design with remarkable weight saving and completely new engineering features.
This high tech beauty is developed out of thin walled, hollow forged aluminum and features some novelties in road racing technology. The outer chainring for example is hollow which saves weight and makes it 20% stiffer at the same time for an optimal power transfer.

There is a wide choice of FC-7900 chainring combinations: 53/42T, 52-39T, 53/39T, 54/42T, 55/42T and 56/44T. Crank arm lengths: 165 – 180mm with 2,5mm steps. Also a DURA-ACE compact crankset FC-7950 is available with a 50/34T chainring combination. The chainring teeth have been redesigned for an improved chain contact to improve power transfer. Furthermore, the bottom bracket features improved sealing for smoother rotation and longer durability.

This crankset weighs 725 grams including bottom bracket. This is 15 grams lighter than the current DURA-ACE crankset FC-7800. Rigidity remains the same.

Dual Control Levers
The new Dual Control Levers show the importance of state-of-the-art technology with regard to performance enhancing design. The lever blades are made of multiple carbon layers, finished with a unidirectional carbon fiber top layer with a special coating. This advanced technology ensures the best performance in terms of rigidity, durability and lightweight design.
Shift cables are hidden under the handlebar tape without sacrificing performance. This was made possible by the development of a new internal mechanism in combination with new PTFE coated inner cables.
The Dual Control Levers have a reach adjustment mechanism that will better accommodate smaller hands and a wider assortment of bar bends. Furthermore, the shift lever has a 20% shorter stroke for faster shifting. The hoods have an ergonomic design for increased comfort, even at long distance rides.

The shifters feature integrated buttons on top of the hoods to operate the new wireless FLIGHTDECK computer without the need to take the hands of the handlebar. FLIGHTDECK measures data such as heart rate, altitude, inclination, cadence, gear position and more. It works with coded wireless signals that prevent interference from other electronic units. The new FLIGHTDECK computer can be used to make a wireless connection with a PC to analyse riding data (software is included). The Dual Control Levers are over 40 grams lighter than the current version at 378 grams per pair.
Besides Dual Control Levers, also new bar end shifters and down tube shifters will be available to match the new DURA-ACE. A carbon brake lever BL-TT79 for aero handlebars will be available for time trial and triathlon usage.

Chain
The new DURA-ACE chain CN-7900 carries a lot of innovative technology. It has an asymmetric design and features redesigned outer plates to reduce the chance of chain suck. Also the inner plates have been redesigned for an improved contact with the cassette sprockets. The result is smoother shifting even under high load, for example when climbing or sprinting. Furthermore the chain runs smoother and is more silent than its predecessors and the new design allows a higher durability as well.
CN-7900 can be mounted with a reusable quicklink SM-CN79 that can be (dis)connected without using any tools. This quicklink is compatible with the other Shimano 10-speed chains as well. Also a normal connecting pin can be used. The chain has been developed with hollow pins and perforated inner plates to make it lighter. Weight of this chain is 252 grams, which is almost 30 grams lighter than the current version.

Derailleurs
The rear derailleur has a wide gear ratio and can be used with sprockets of maximum 28 teeth. It is compatible with the use of a compact crankset without the need for a medium cage derailleur. It has a full carbon pulley plate and a carbon/resin composite P-body that helps to reduce the weight to 166 grams.

The front derailleur has a lightweight design and an optimum spring tension for feather light downshifting. Trimming the outer chainring is no longer needed to allow a better concentration on the ride. The efficiency has been improved by using a stiffer and solid wide link design. Weight is only 67 grams.

Brakes
The brakes feature new compound brake shoes that doubles the brake performance in wet circumstances and improves stopping power in dry weather by 20%. These new brake shoes feature a longer durability as well.
The brakes have been developed with an enhanced brake arch proportion for an increased linear response. A lower cable stopper ensures a better cable routing and reduced cable friction. The Dual-Pivot caliper brakes feature also a spring tension adjuster and adjustable toe-in brake shoes The dual pivot bolt and center bolt as well as the inner cable fixing bolts are made of titanium for an optimised lightweight design of 293 grams per set.

Cassette/Hub/Freehub
Shimano has developed a super lightweight yet very rigid aluminum cassette sprocket carrier. Also the separate sprockets have been redesigned for more robust shifting performance and to save weight. This 10-speed HYPERGLIDE cassette will be available in a wider variation of combinations: 11-21T, 11-23T, 11-25T, 11-27T, 11-28T, 12-23T, 12-25T, 12-27T. The four biggest sprockets are made of titanium. Weight is 163 grams (11-23T).

The hub and freehub have an increased rigidity that improves rotation even when the quick release is tightened strongly. Furthermore, they have been developed with a completely new bearing adjustment system that enables easy manual adjustment without the use of a cone wrench.

This DURA-ACE group is the ultimate combination of state-of-the-art technology, lightweight design and innovative appearance. It sets a new standard in road racing technology, in which details are nowadays more important than ever. More info at http://www.dura-ace.com

Availability in the market: October 2008.

SRAM lineup for 2009

While everyone is trying to reveal the new offerings from Shimano and Campagnolo for 2009, SRAM decided to already unveil the product updates for next year during the Sea Otter Classics.

Let us start with the high-end group, the SRAM red. Many athletes in the pro-peloton complained about the group’s crankset performance and we saw many DuraAce cranks labeled with SRAM stickers, on Astana bikes especially, or bikes equipped with Rival cranksets. Obviously there was some room for improvement and therefore SRAM will offer a completely redesigned crankset in 2009. It features the increasingly popular BB30 standard and is supposed to be lighter ( approx. 100 grams ) and stiffer, also having a lower Q-factor than the predecessor. Perhaps SRAM could already benefit from their recent acquisition of Zipp while developing this crank in BB30 standard, which is also used by the Vuma Quad. The second innovation comes with two new offerings on the PowerDome cassette, which will be available in a 11-25 (11,12,13,14,15,17,19,21,23,25) and 11-28 (11,12,13,14,15,17,19,22,25,28) gear ratio respectively. We are still missing a cassette, starting with a 12 tooth sprocket though, but apparently SRAM does not believe, that many recreational riders will buy their top offering.

Riders needing time trial equipment will be able to get their hands on several new items for 2009, too. New aero chainrings ( 55,54 and 42 tooth ) with an anodized finish are introduced, already spotted in the pro peloton during this season. The lineup is further widened by new shift and brake levers named 500 TT. Former weighting 154g a pair, the latter weighting 16g more per pair than the original one, while replacing the carbon lever with a red anodized aluminum one.

Meanwhile some of the features introduced last year exclusively for red will be handed down to the force group for 2009. One feature incorporated is the full reach adjustment for both brake and shift levers. Also the Zero-loss technology for the front derailleur, offering a faster and smoother front shifting is new to Force. The shifters will feature a longer brake lever and an extended and widened shift paddle additionally. One last fact worth mentioning is, that the shift and brake cables can now both be routed on either side of the handlebar.

The most dramatic changes however are related to the Rival groupset. Most parts now have a new polished, black anodized surface, the levers receiving a new carbon brake lever, reducing the weight by 20g to 320g overall. All other features which are new to the Force group, have also been implemented in the design of the Rival. Furthermore the aluminum crankset receives a complete redesign with hollow-forged crankarms, shaving off a mere 40 grams. 110 and 130 BCDs are offered and even though the official press release states crank lengths between 165 and 180 cm, we think mm should be already sufficient. Have a further look at some live product impressions for yourself with the following pictures or see the stuff in a small video.

TI dreams become reality

As frames made of carbon fibre are becoming more and more mainstream, customers are searching for new materials to set their very own frame apart from the rest of the pack. One material which surely is worth a closer look within this search is Titanium. One new company which tries to fascinate customers with their craftsmanship is Baum, a company based in North Shore, Southern Australia. One speciality of the guys is certainly the nomenclature of their product lineup, where every frame is named after a special Italian coffee creation.

Similar to Litespeed with the Archon, Baum offers their frames with individual paintjobs, enabling the customer to choose out of a wide variety of more than 55,000 colors and designs. The durability of the coating is achieved by using a two component system, where the bare metal is treated with a special adhesion primer, which is finalized with a colored topcoat. To ensure highest quality standards in color match and stone-chip protection Baum utilizes a PPG Automotive paint system for this purpose. But next to the optics the frames of Jo Banks and Darren Baum also seem to impress with their technical datasheets. The frames can be build as light as 950g, but then there is a weight limit of 85 kg for the rider to consider. The pictured Cubano weights, with a frame at 1080g in the shown configuration ( including coating, company emblem on the headtube, seat clamp and cable stops ) at a frame size of 57cm, just over 5.2kg. These weights are possible due to the multiple butted tubes of the frames ( e.g. the Corretto can consist of tubes in ti grades of 9 to 3/2.5 ) and additional machining in the areas of the bottom bracket, the headtube and dropouts. Customization into the endmost detail.

The prices range from $4995 for the Romano to $6995 which have to be paid for the Coretto ( all values in Australian dollar ) - incl. fork & headset. For frames shipped abroad you can substract 10% GST tax on those prices, but do not forget to add your country specific VAT and additional costs for custom clearance. The shipment itself will cost you between $125 to $200, depending on how long you can wait, but always fully insured. The leadtimes on the frames are 8 to 12 weeks at present, depending on the material of the bike, Titanium being the latter. Have a look on the full price list for yourself:

Steel framesets
Cappuccino
Frame, Baum carbon fork & Ritchey Pro headset $2495
Upgrades:
• Edge 2.0 or Reynolds Ouzo Pro fork +$150
• Espresso paint (single band, two band) +$200
Espresso
Frame, Edge 2.0 or Reynolds Ouzo Pro fork & Ritchey Pro h/s $3595
Upgrades:
• Chris King headset +$120
• Wound Up fork +$100
Ristretto
Frame, Edge 1.0 fork & Chris King headset $4195
Upgrades:
• Time carbon seatstay +$400
• THM Scapula SP fork +$795

Titanium framesets
Romano
Ti frame, Edge 2.0 fork & Chris King headset $4995
Upgrades:
• Reynolds carbon seatstay No cost
• Paint (single band or ¾ painted) +$400
Cubano
Ti Frame, Edge 2.0 fork & Chris King headset $5995
Upgrades:
• Reynolds carbon seatstay No cost
• Edge 1.0 fork or Reynolds Ouzo Pro SL fork +$125
Corretto
Ti Frame, Edge 1.0 fork & Tune Bobo headset $6995
Upgrades:
• Time carbon seatstay +$500
• THM Scapula SP fork +$795

Prices for complete bikes can be found on the Baum website . Next to their lineup of racebikes, there is also a similar collection of MTB frames waiting to be explored, named similar after Cappuccino, Espresso, Ristretto, Romano & Cubano. The frame of the Ti model Cubano weights just around 1350g. A singlespeed option, 29′ frames or even carrier eyelets are possible.

The guys from Baum Cycles are searching for potential distribution partners in key locations around Europe at the moment, you can contact them via email: Jared(at)baumcycles.com and - honestly speaking - we think it would be a shame if not more of these frames could be seen around Europe in the near future.

Oakley Radar - the successor

No other shades are bound so closely to one single rider than the MFrame of Oakley. In all stages throughout his seven Tour de France wins Lance Armstrong wore them, whether during time trials, mountain stages or on the podium. After more than ten years Oakley took the courage and announced a successor to the MFrame, after Armstrong’s retirement, named Radar.

These newly designed shades had immediate success in the pro peloton and were worn by more than one third of the riders in the last tour, a clear sign that many people were eagerly awaiting a new design from Oakley. So what are actually the improvements of the Radar in comparison to the MFrame for being able to beat the commercial success of its predecessor.

The latest evolution in performance eyewear, as Oakley states, features an improved interchangeable lens design with 3 different lens shapes and a spectrum of over 15 lens colours, including polarized and vented versions, for adjusting the shades to every weather condition. All lenses of the Radar have the new hydrophobic coating which prevents water from leaving streaks and sheens on the lens and also maintains smudge resistance.

The fit of the Radar can be adjusted with interchangeable nosepieces and to a certain degree mouldable temples. Impact resistance meets all ANSI Z87.1 standards, and UV filtering is 100%. It all comes with the clarity of Oakley’s High Definition Optics (HDO). Other features in telegraphic style:

• Integrated surge ports to channel cooling airflow
• Optimized peripheral view and side coverage of Polaric Ellipsoid lens geometry
• Comfort and performance of Three-Point Fit that holds lenses in precise optical alignment
• UV protection of Plutonite® lens that filters out 100% of UVA / UVB / UVC & harmful blue light up to 400nm
• Glare reduction and tuned light transmission with Iridium lens coating (optional)
• Protective sports-specific Oakley Soft Vault included with capacity for an extra lens
• Prescription inserts available +2.00 to -4.00 with cylinder up to -2.00

The standard models come in over 15 different versions, including special version named LIVEstrong or Team CSC, priced between $155 up to $255, depending on the version an extra lens can cost between $70 to $105.


We ordered a pair of Radars over the Oakley Custom program, which is unfortunately only offered to customers with an US shipping address currently. There you can design your shades from scratch out of 14 different frame colours, 3 lens shapes and 15 lens colours.

But the customization goes even further by selecting the colour of the Oakley icons ( out of 14 ) and ear socks ( out of 5 ). The final touch receives every pair of Radars by adding an etching on the lens, which can consist of up to 15 letters in 3 different font styles. Out of all these options we designed our sunglasses, which you can see on all pictures in this article with the following attributes:

• Frame colour: Polished aluminium
• Lens type: Path G26 iridium
• Icon colour: White icon
• Ear socks: White ear socks
• Etching: RASCEL in font Stencil

Our customized pair cost $220 + 7.25% taxes and we received it roughly 3 weeks after ordering online. As being a fan of the MFrame before, we can say nothing negative about the Radar so far, very light ( 18g ), good fit and tremendous optics. One flaw we found on our custom pair is the frame coating and the nosepiece, which shows a tendency of flaking, especially when you often switch your lenses. Additionally you see in the last picture, that the coating is applied on the frame after assembly of the temples to the front part of the frame, thus leaving some areas around the joint unpainted, which could be easily avoided. We will wait with our final judgement on the Radar for some warm days to penetrate the hydrophobic coated lens with some concentrated, salty sweat and want to see how it performs in those conditions. Nevertheless you can be assured that with buying a pair of Radars, you will receive one of the most advanced pair of sunglasses available on the market.

We put an end to 2007.

You might have wondered why we have not published new articles for quite some time. Light-bikes.de did not fall into hibernation, but due to the fact that one of our editors for the English section is currently working abroad in Japan, he can’t find the time to post regular updates. The team is desperately trying to improve the situation and we assure you that there will be some interesting new articles and news published latest at the beginning of March. Therefore we already would like to wish our readers Happy Holidays and a good start into 2008. Keep it rolling !

Wireless SRM system

It has been spotted among the peleton for some months, at Eurobike SRM presented a powermeter incorporating a solarpanel for charging the buffer battery.

At Interbike in Las Vegas SRM will finally reveal its new wireless version to the public. It uses the already described ( here ) ANT+Sport™ technology. The crank can be used with a newly developed wireless version of the PowerMeter or other third party devices like the new Edge 705, which use the same radio technology. Further details can be found in the official press release.

Our Light-Bikes Gallery…

We are pleased to announce the launch of our new bike gallery. Interested people can find there complete bikes with detailed part lists and weights to gather inspiration for their own projects or just to collect information.

We invite you to add your bike to the gallery by simply sending a picture with one of these part lists ( road / mtb ) via email to rainer@light-bikes.de . You can browse the gallery here or just by clicking on the link at the topbar. We look forward to your contributions and don’t forget that we have also a part on scale gallery for weights of single bike components.

M5 crankset is coming up

Last year M5 ligfietsen, a dutch company owned by Bram Moens, announced a new crankset with a claimed weight of 238g. The concurrently developed bottom bracket has a target weight between 120g to 140g including cups & bearings. The market launch was targeted for January 2007.
weiter…

Quarq CinQo - Think fast

Last year SRAM managed to step onto the playing field of groupset manufacturers at eye level with the two main competitors, not least due to some real innovations. As training with power meters gets more and more popular in the last years, companies also try to come up with innovations to get their share of the market.

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King of the mountains

The race is nearly finished, one last climb to go, just some miles between you and the victory. What counts in these minutes ? Maybe the medicine you ingested, your physical ability for sure, but the last 5% for the all-dominant attack might be contributed by the material you´ve got. The wheels you are using can be your competitive edge. One of these wheelsets - the Speedcomposites Sinus - which are able to provide you this edge, went through five months of hard testing.

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Bike of the year contest

80 Hours to go! (March 24th, 2007 - 12pm), than this period has expired.

As already published in several online communities we would like to officially announce our first contest. We search for the nicest community bike in four different categories:

• Racebike - max. 7kg
• MTB Hardtail - max. 9kg
• MTB Full Suspension - max. 10kg
• MTB Singlespeed - max 8.5kg

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Speedcomposites Sinus

Light wheelsets for road bikes exist a dime a dozen. But not all of them can combine all attributes of a really good wheelset, meaning an optimal ratio between lightness and stiffness. The most noted wheels in this category, like the Hyperon of Campagnolo, Zipp´s 202 or the Lightweight Ventoux also have a common disadvantage – the price.

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