We just received some pictures of Redline’s 2009 mountain bikes and they are quite the looker. No worries, these aren’t all the mountain bikes that Redline is offering in 2009. All pictures can be enlarged by clicking on them.
Monocog Flight
D460
D660
I am particularly smitten with the blue/grey paint job on the D660. Redline’s website has not been updated with these pictures yet, so be patient. In the meantime, check out Redline for info on their 2008 bikes.
This weekend Priscilla and I visited our friends Scott and Jennifer Finch out in Temecula on a ranch that they live at. The ranch has about 20 acres of land and Scott along with his 13 year old son Alex, built a little downhill trail that included a rock garden, whoops, a ladder, berms and a ton of fun!
We arrived in Temecula around 2pm on Saturday afternoon and immediately Scott, Alex and I scoped out the trail and started doing some practice runs. Here’s Scott and I resting on one of the many boulders on the course.
Here’s a Alex coming down the hill, he may look small, but this guy has the makings of a pro downhiller.
A shot of Alex coaching me through the ladder section.
Then later on in the evening, Scott, Jen, Priscilla and I rode through some fire roads to some sort of nature preserve in Temecula. Our ride was about 12 miles round trip. Picture of Scott and I. We’re actually in talks with Scott about becoming a Writer for MtnBikeRiders.com. He used to own RPM Cyclery in Lake Elsinore. But now he’ll be going to Taiwan for about 10 months, and he was telling me about all the trails out there and possibly going to the Taipei Bicycle Show and going on a few factory tours on behalf of MtnBikeRiders.com…dang, I guess you can say we’ve gone international!
Jen and Priscilla riding through the back country.
We had an awesome time this weekend with the Finch Family. Scott is working on a review of a helmet cam we received a while back. He’ll get that up soon enough. I’m also working on a video of our weekend. I just need to compile it. I hope everyone had as much fun as we did on their rides this weekend, please leave a comment and share about your adventures!
This weekend’s ride will be at Turnbull Canyon, the meeting place is on TBC road on the Whittier side at 7:00 am. This ride will feature a guest appearance: ME!!!
My weekends have been rather busy, so I don’t get to hang out with the MtnBikeRiders krew as often as I used to. So bring your posters, shirts, books as I will be signing autographs before and after the ride.
Who: Ay Up Lighting was born over two years ago and has developed into a world beater. We supply the lightest and coolest looking lights on the planet. No corner has been cut to provide a safe, reliable lighting system to suit the average Joe and the Elite racer. With weight, functionality, long burn, light output and low cost at the top of the design spec it took many months to evolve into what we have today. It will not stop there. We will continue to evolve the system for ever more. With a lifetime of engineering design, manufacture and systems experience behind us Ay Up Lighting can only get better. Our light has been designed to be a multi purpose unit.
Ay Up lights: Pink has intermediate beam, Yellow has narrow beam
Website’s MSRP:
$ 465
Specs:
Twin light and helmet mount
Light neoprene storage belt pouch
Twin light and handlebar mount
Light neoprene storage belt pouch
One spare handlebar mount
Four spare light mounting bands
One 6hr on / off switched battery complete with neoprene mount anywhere pouch
One neoprene 6hr battery attachment strap, prevents movement
Two 3hr on / off switched batteries complete with neoprene mount anywhere pouches
One 110V - 240V Adaptor in neoprene pouch, to suit dual channel charger
One 12 Volt Dual Channel Lithium Polymer Charger – charge two batteries at once
One 12 Volt Adaptor (Cigarette Lighter Plug)
One extension cable 1200mm long, enables battery to be placed in backpack or pocket
One roll up pouch, all items fit snugly inside
One handlebar rubber packer kit to suit Diameters 25mm & 32mm bars
Handful of Ubeaut cable ties
Optional extra’s are -
Both sized batteries
Additional charger & accessories
Additional mounts
The whole MTB Kit
About Me:
6’1” 210lbs, 28 year old male. I’m a mountain biking enthusiast who enjoys XC riding.
Testing Grounds:
Local trails & streets of Southern California
First Impressions:
Small and a bit overwhelming. My first thoughts was: Would these lights be powerful enough to light up the trail? The lights themselves were small and they wouldn’t be putting out a lot of light power, 300 lumens to be exact. To give you some perspective of really how small these lights are, below is a picture of one of the lights next to my Motorola Razr, a universally recognized phone if there is one. The Ay Up light’s length about the width of my Razr!
Length of light about the same width as my Razr
I was a bit overwhelmed with the number of pieces involved in this MTB Kit. There are easily 30+ pieces including zip ties, spare mounts, chargers and various other pieces. Sorting them all out took some patience comparing pictures from the internet to what was being provided. But once I figured it all out, the assembly was a snap.
Strengths:
The first thing I have to start with is size & weight. The Ay Up lights are small. As I mentioned before, the length of the Cree light set is about the same width of my Razr. The width of the lights is slightly wider than my stem’s width. This is a small light system. The 3-hour battery is not much bigger. The battery fits comfortably on my stem with room to spare. Having a short wire between the battery and the light is also nice because it means that there is less chance of entanglement (from stem to handlebar) or getting ripped off by a tree branch (when mounted on the helmet).
Out on a group ride with the Ay Up lights
I mostly rode with the 2 x 3-hour batteries. One went on my helmet connected to the narrow beamed lights and the other 3-hour battery went on my stem connected to the wide beamed lights which went on my handlebar. Ay Up claims that the battery plus the lightest come in at about 130 grams (light – 60grams & battery – 70grams). And although this is a significant weight, it doesn’t feel like much once you get used to it. In fact, I normally just mount the light & battery to my helmet at the trailhead even if I know I might not have to use it until an hour or so into the ride. I found that the weight seems to disappear after a few minutes and never bothered me. You also have the option of running the extension cable from the light on your helmet to a back pocket if you don’t like the battery on your helmet.
I found the lights to be very tough and the finish to be excellent. I’ve done everybody a favor here and crashed hard with the Ay Up lights. When I got up from my crash I was expecting to see some damage to the lights. Afterall, the bike got a few nicks, even on the handlebar. To my surprise, the lights were shining as brightly as ever. There was not one scratch on the shell or the lens of the light. I was pleasantly surprised.
Not turned on, but already mounted to my helmet, the Ay Up lights are that lightweight
I’ve also been pretty harsh with these lights. I toss them in my bike stuff bucket after I’m done riding, taking only the batteries out for recharging. I keep a variety of bike stuff in my bike stuff bucket including a shock pump and an aluminum hand pump. My bike stuff has been rattling around with the Ay Up lights for the last three months and the Ay Up lights still look brand new, or in ebay terminology: mint condition.
Mounted via zip ties. Very simple design, and easy to fix if anything ever happened
The Ay Up lights are powerful. I never desired more light output from these lights. I’ve cruised up to 25+ mph on the trail and well over 30+ on the street with these lights and I never wished for more reach. The light is plentiful, clean and clear. In fact on just about every ride I went on someone complimented the Ay Up lights. Even when I was on a solo ride, I passed two riders who went gaga over them commenting on how the light output of the Ay Up lights was drowning out their own set of lights as I overtook them on the trail.
I’m impressed with the neoprene sleeves for the different batteries. The battery always stayed in the battery sleeve as this made them quick and easy to mount. They battery sleeves are soft, durable and the velcro is easy to use. The battery sleeve also has a loop on the back for a velcro strap to mount to your bike’s stem. I see the battery neoprene case lasting a long time.
Neoprene sleeve holds the battery and the wide velcro strap keeps it in place on the stem
The lights can be adjusted separately. Each light is able to rotate 270 degrees for more beam coverage of the trail or pointed along the same angle for more power. I personally went with the latter as I found the beam coverage to be more than adequate. But if you prefer more beam coverage, the benefit of the two lights is that you can point one just in front of your front tire and the second light can be pointed further down the trail spreading your beam out.
Weakness:
I am a bit underwhelmed by the neoprene packaging for the whole light system. The neoprene sleeves for the batteries are great, as I mentioned above, but my thoughts on the neoprene packaging for the whole light kit differ vastly. The neoprene packaging that you “store” the whole light kit is difficult to use. It is especially difficult if you do not remember where everything goes. I could not, for the life of me, repackage everything back together so that it looked as nice and clean as it did the first time I received the lights. After a while I ended up just storing everything in an empty shoe box.
I also didn’t particularly like the handlebar rubber packer. This is the protective sticky rubber strap that sticks to your handlebar so you can mount the handlebar mount. The handlebar rubber packer left a bit of residue and began moving around underneath the handlebar mount. After a while, I removed the handlebar rubber packer and took cut a piece of tire tube and zip-tied the tube to my handlebars. I then mounted the handlebar mount and this worked perfectly for the rest of the testing period.
Handlebar Rubber Packer replaced with a tire tube zip-tied to the handlebar
Summary:
The Ay Up lights are an exceptional piece of equipment. They are light enough for the pro racer while also simple enough for the novice mountain biker to use. If you’re looking for an excellent blend of weight, simplicity, durability, beam output and price, then look no further than the Ay Up lights. They’ll be the ones for you.
So on yesterday’s ride, Priscilla and I were on a section of the Fullerton Loop that is known as “extra credit.” This portion of the trail rides along side, but about 10-20 feet higher than the fire road. Anyhow, we’re cruising along the single track, then this douche bag comes right on me left side, his front wheel was right where my cranks were, then yells something into my ear about being on my left. Frankly I couldn’t understand the guy, all I heard was a loud mumbling. Then he passes me, by this time I’m irritated because he startled me and that he didn’t announce that he was passing me further back.
He gets in front of me, then the trail decides to go on an incline, so Mr. DB, goes to his granny gear, but mis-shifts, the immediately slows down, I put on the brakes. I then yell out to Priscilla that there’s some one behind her. You know what his DB said…”Oh its ok…”
This guy was in such a rush to pass me then once he see’s Priscilla in front of me, he backs off. Perhaps he turned more civil since a lady was present, or maybe he just liked the view…
By this time I was getting mad because not only did he not have enough courtesy to announce he was coming up behind me, then he sits behind Priscilla…probably checking her out! Priscilla lets him pass, so I then get into pursuit mode on my single speed. I chase him down the trail and become a douche bag myself by tailgating him just so he can hear my annoying cowbell ringing as I’m riding his butt.
Then I ran out of energy…I let him go and about 1/2 a mile later, I threw up a bit from exerting myself too much….
What’s the moral of the story, I sure there’s many, one could be to let things roll off and not be bothered, another was to not get too pissy with other rides (as as previous) and another would be to not chase a geared biker on the flats while riding a single speed.
When I first built up my Red Rocket Single Speed, I used 170mm cranks. I emailed a few guys and they all seem to give me some scientific and mechanical input as to why the 175 would be better. But I didn’t listen.
During my first ride, I didn’t feel any difference at all. So I stuck with it until my next ride, a 12 miler. Man, by mile 4 I was already worn out from spinning too much with the 170. I was completely miserable the whole ride.
So yesterday I finally swapped out the cranks for a 175mm set and boy I can feel a HUGE difference in the power, cadence and my energy. I can REALLY tell that the 175mm makes a big impact on my riding.
Now I’m wondering if 180mm would be better…as Jeremy likes to say, “Bigger is always better.” Kinda makes me wonder if that goes the same for crank arms…
This is the KHS XCT 535, a great bike…that’s pretty much all you need to know. But since we are professional reviewers, I am obligated at the same time privileged to provide our readers a thorough review.
Let’s get down to the meat and potatoes, if your a Vegan, the cucumber and carrots. I don’t want to bore you by repeating my first impressions of the bike, you can just read it HERE.
About Me:
I’m about 5′7″ on a good day, I weigh about 190lbs, I’m husky and I can put on some hurt with any bike I ride. I am a Single Speed convert, 95% of the time I’m riding my SS. But I do love technical trails with ALL Mountain bikes.
Trails Tested:
The KHS XCT 535 has seen quite a bit of action in recent months. It’s been ridden at places like Turnbull Canyon, Fullerton Loop, Santiago Oaks, Aliso Woods (Woods Canyon, Rockit, Cholla, Coyote Run, and Dripping Caves).
Strengths: The XCT 535 is definitely a strong bike. It’s well versed to be ridden in XC conditions yet strong enough for you to take it through some of the nastiest and technical terrain you can think of. There are many great things about this bike that makes it unique. Well for one the Horst Linkage. I’ve ridden many Specialized bikes in the past and have always longed to ride other bikes with that same suspension linkage. Luckily the XCT 535 is equipped with it and its complimented by a 4 bar linkage.
A couple of things that stand out, the bike is REALLY REALLY fun to ride. Bombing down technical single track, rock gardens and 1-3 footer jumps makes this bike come alive. I really think that this bike has a potential to be ridden as a downhill bike, 4X (4 Cross), or Super D. Why? Well its simple really, the bike can handle just about anything you can throw at it and when it does, it laughs back at you, much like a fairytale giant would when the town peasants are throwing rocks and spears at him.
Let’s talk about the suspension. As you might have already read, the fork is a Marzocchi MX Lo, 120mm, variable compression lockout and the rear shock is a Rock Shox Bar 2.1, air w/rebound adjust. My favorite feature on the fork is the lock out. What’s cool is you can set how low you want it to lock. It also offered a very plush front end ride. The Marzocchi did an awesome job in absorbing the the trail. In fact this fork saved me from what could have been a REALLY bad crash.
Long story short, the trail I was on turned into a large rut. I had 2 choices, either ride the rut and go over the bars or try and get out of the rut, roll onto the embankment and hope that the suspension would absorb, and the tire would grab. Well sure enough, I’m writing this review injury free! The fork took in a few inches of travel to absorb the energy my husky self along with the speed I built up, and worked flawlessly. This is probably a good time to mention the grabbing power the John Thomac Nevegal 26×2.1 have. Man those things were awesome! I felt VERY confident taking any turn, riding any berm and the most technical trails with them.
Then we have the the rear shock. It’s butter. It’s the Shiz-nits. It’s Da-bomb! Seriously, the rear shock had no bob and it was really easy to set up. Once I dialed in the rear shock, I was happy. There really isn’t much more to say about it other than that thing worked well. Not once did I feel that the rebound was either too quick or too slow. As long as I followed the directions on setting it to my weight, sag and all that, the shock worked. But I’m sure the FSR linkage helped.
That’s another thing I do have to mention. The Horst Link suspension is a dream. I’ve been on all sorts of suspension bikes, from single pivot, to 4 bar, nothing compares to the Horst Link that is set up on the XCT 535. Its almost difficult to explain the big difference between that and a single pivot, but I’ll do my best. Single pivot, or any other 4 bar set up (without Horst) could be like driving a really cheap car…let’s just say a Hyundai Excel. But riding a bike with Horst, would be like riding in a nice big Cadillac. It really is plush and offers a responsive handling as well as a way that makes the trails seem flatter than what they really are.
Weaknesses:
I have 1 compliant. The bike is chunky. I did find myself having a hard time climbing with this bike on long and slow inclines. Perhaps I am just out of shape, but I definitely felt its weight going up some of the climbs. But here’s the thing, even with that, the XCT 535 does climb well. I never experienced the front end popping up during my climb due to a messed up geometry or too long of a fork. If you’re patient enough, and can/want to stay on the granny gear the whole time, the bike WILL get up the hill with no issues.
Coming off my single speed that weights about 5lbs lighter and geared with a 32/18, I had a hard time getting up some of the hills with the XCT 535 because I couldn’t stand spinning on the granny gear. However, there is a big pay off when you start to go down, makes all of it worth it!
Summary:
The KHS XCT 535 really is a great bike. Other than the weight affecting my climbing, then again I could lose a few pounds myself, the bike overall is an awesome ride. Going downhills is when the bike becomes really alert and responsive. I feel that the marriage between the parts and bike compliments its intended purpose of an ALL Mountain and Trail Bike. Just think of the frame and the components like a really sweet and perfect married couple. So sweet that its almost unreal. Well that’s the feel of this bike, its sweet.
The frame was pretty stout, meaning this thing was bombproof. One of the concerns I have for full suspension mountain bikes is how the rear end would have too much play, or lateral movement. The XCT 535 rides as stiff (frame) as a hard tail, and that’s good because the last thing I want is a bike’s rear end that hesitates or flexes.
The geometry isn’t too XC where you’re leaning too far forward, but its not too lazy where you feel like your on an exercise bike at the gym or on a DH bike, its a compromise of both worlds that gives the rider a comfortable riding position in which they can attack and be aggressive at the same time.
Priscilla even had the joy of riding the XCT 535 through Aliso Woods. Because of the XCT, she was able to ride down a technical rocky bed called Rock-It for the first time. Previous attempts would make her get off her bike and walk the rest of the way. But with the XCT 535, she made it down the trail and she knew that it was that fancy suspension that got her down the mountain.
Here’s our beef-cake being weighed…around 30.4lbs
If you watch this video, you’ll see me hustling the trail with the KHS XCT 535.
So you now probably wondering if I would recommend this bike? If you’re looking for a that can do just about everything in this world. Then the answer is YES. Go get one, you won’t regret it!
Never since the original LA Coliseum Superbowl of Motocross has there been an event like this. Southridge Racing Club owner Donny Jackson put up some bucks, secured a mini stadium, found some dirt, and designed a 4-Cross course. He even tracked down the original Superbowl of Motocross announcer, Larry Motor Mouth Huffman. The main event is slated to take place September 24, during 2008 Interbike.
Invited athletes include Eric Carter, Rich Houseman, Dale Holmes, Chris Kovarik, Brad Oien, JD Swanguen, Mike Haderer, Cody Warren, Brian Lopes, Kirt Voreis, Nathen Rennie, Brian Schmith, Carter Holland, Jared Rando, Ross Milan, Kyle Strait, Ryan Conderashoff, John Hauer and Petr
Hanak.
Yesterday’s after work Single Speed Extraveganza was the first time I was able to wear the new MtnBikeRiders.com Jersey. But before we get to that, I wanted to share a few photos of the group that went. I say it was a single speed extraveganza, but in reality it was only Khoa, Joe and I that were on SS rigs. But our friends Ryan K. (the man behind my buff photo), Val and his brother Eric were on geared bikes.
Here’s our mandatory group shot.
And another…
Ok, now for the jersey. The fabric is Dry Fit, which means its moisture wicking and its super comfy. The cut and style allows for great arm movements, perfect for technical riding and climbing. The loose fit is great because I never felt constricted.
Sorry for the blurry photos, I just got this new camera and I’m not so sure how to set it up to take photos, but thanks to Ryan for taking them.
Here’s a side profile, that’s my new SS Red Rocket…it had red tires before…thus the name.
A staged photo of me climbing.
I do want to thank the rest of the guys for being patient with me. Man I am WAY out of shape…and I’m feeling the effects of the 170mm cranks…I’m spinning too much.
I’m feeling a bit pudgy since the whole weight loss contest. I could use a few excuses about having to start a new job, getting accustomed to it and all that jazz, but in reality, I’ve been WAY lazy.
Some day I want to look like this young buck.
But our buddy Ryan K. took the liberty to help me visualize…
Thanks man!
Anyhow, I’ll need some tips on which exercises to consider when I’m pumping some iron. I also need to make sure that the stuff I’m doing will benefit my riding. So for all you gym rats that’s out there, please provide me some tips on what I can do to work out. My goal is about 3x times a week, keep in mind I have a bad left knee….so squats would be pretty much out of the question. Unless there’s a way for me to build up my leg power and eventually work towards squats.
www.bikecommuters.com
