Footwear fans have been queuing for days for the latest trainers. The 2023 novelties will probably not attract any eagerly waiting people with camping equipment in front of the bike shops. The mountain bike world will probably have to wait a little longer for the next big hit. Keep the pressure on Global uncertainties put the brakes on the innovation train. Better to get back on track slowly than to announce sensational goals that can then perhaps only be achieved after a sobering delay - that seemed to be the general mood at the Eurobike 2022 in Frankfurt. But it doesn't always have to be the big breakthroughs that enrich the biker's life. Anything that makes mountain biking nicer, faster and more affordable is a win. In the end, gently priced wear parts are often more important than the latest high-tech standard. Detailed improvements turn good products into perfect companions. Unlike strictly limited-edition trainers, bike parts don't end up in an illuminated display case, but are really put to the test on dusty trails.
MTB shifting components from Sunrace
Some twelve-speed cassettes today cost as much as a complete wheelset. Not so this cassette from Taiwanese manufacturer Sunrace with 11-51 teeth and the unwieldy name CSMZ800 WA1. European prices have not yet been finalised, but should be less than 100 euros. The two largest sprockets are made of aluminium. The weight of 648 grams is nevertheless steep.
Alternatives to Shimano and Sram are on the shifting market extremely rare. The MZ shifting group from Sunrace offers a new option. The rear derailleur has a capacity of 11-51 teeth and is said to weigh 294 grams. To prevent chain slap, the Taiwanese company relies on adjustable friction damping. Two different versions of the 125 gram gear lever also make it compatible with
compatible with Shimano or Sram drivetrains. Prices have not yet been finalised.
Hayes Dominion T4 disc brake
The Hayes Dominion T4 saves 100 grams in weight compared to the A4 version, resulting in 294 grams for the front brake. This is made possible by a carbon lever, titanium hardware and brake pads with aluminium carriers. The power should not suffer as a result, but the price increases to 360 euros per disc brake. In return, there is a lifetime guarantee against leaks.
Chainrings Ethirteen Helix-R
The new Ethirteen Helix-R chainrings now also bring the colours of the Ethirteen cassettes to the cranks. Sizes between 28 and 34 teeth are available. The 32-tooth version is said to weigh 52 grams. The CNC-machined chainrings for MTB cranks cost 69.90 euros. Compatible with eleven- and twelve-speed drivetrains.
New MTB tyres for 2023
Onza Aquila
Thanks to 20 per cent higher outer lugs, the new Onza Aquila is said to grip the ground like an eagle. In addition, there is a softer, grippier compound for the All-mountain/enduro tyres. The width of the tyre, which weighs at least 1050 grams, increases to 2.5 inches. Prices start at 74.90 euros.
Pirelli Scorpion Enduro
The new Pirelli Scorpion Enduro M is also aimed at long-stroke bikes. The SmartGRIP Gravity material mix comes from Pirelli's rally and motocross experience and is designed to improve grip, smoothness and tear resistance. Weights start at 990 grams with a width of 2.4 inches. From 75 euros.
Swallow Magic Mary
The Schwalbe gravity classic Magic Mary has been joined by a lighter version. The Superground Soft version is said to have shed over 100 grams compared to the Super Trail version and offers the ideal mix of a light casing and a potent tread. The price is still open.
Three new MTB pedals for 2023
Magnetic pedal: Magped Enduro2
The binding mechanism of the Enduro2 is unique and holds the feet to the pedal with 200, 270 or 350 N magnets. Magped has slimmed down the pedals by 100 grams, increased the footprint and fitted sharper pins. From 159 euros.
Flat pedal Crankbrothers Stamp 7
The Americans are releasing their most popular products in a limited edition with a splatter look. Including the Crankbrothers Stamp 7 flat pedal for 169.99 euros. Large footprint, ten adjustable pins per side. Also available in size S for small feet >> available here.
Look Trail Roc+ with exchange pins
For a long time, the French company Look was quiet. But now, with the Trail Roc+, they have developed a triple-bearing, 16 millimetre flat pedal that is designed to deliver maximum grip with ten interchangeable pins. Forged aluminium cage; 390 grams; 159.90 euros.
Stefan Frey
Editor
