Shoes, cleaning agents, tools & stems: Parts at risk: products under constant fire

Soft sole - Shimano GF600

In the summer, Shimano presented a whole range of new shoes. One of these was the GF600 for enduro and gravity use. A distinctive Shimano feature: the discreetly raised, padded shaft on the inside to protect the ankles. The robust upper material can withstand light rain and mud without water ingress. Top. Otherwise, the shoe is equipped with all the necessary MTB features, such as solid heel and toe protection and a grippy sole that sticks to the pedals. The ventilation is fine. The excessively long laces and the overly soft sole were less practical. On long, steep descents, you can clearly feel the pedals in the centre area. This doesn't feel good and encourages cramps. Weight: 855 grams (the pair, size 46), price: 160 euros >> available here.

Conclusion: Solid MTB shoe with dirt-repellent upper material. The soft sole had a negative impact on long, steep descents.

Strengths:

• Fit
• water-repellent
• Grip

Weaknesses:

• Sole too soft
• Long laces

Saubermacher - Muc-Off Drivetrain Cleaner (organic)

If the drive is very dirty, only a wash will help. This is where the Drivetrain Cleaner comes into play. Tip: First remove coarse dirt from the derailleur pulley with a flat-bladed screwdriver, then spray on the drivetrain and chain, leave to work for about 2 minutes, work in with a brush if necessary, then rinse with water. Price: 22,49 Euro >> available here.

Conclusion: Efficient drive cleaner that does its job. Biodegradable according to the manufacturer.

Strengths

• Reliably removes dirt
• Biodegradable

Weaknesses

• Nothing

Lubricant - Tunap Sports bearing grease (100 Ml)

The bearing grease from Tunap Sports is my number one. I can't say whether the grease is better than others. The packaging is the main argument. Other fats come in tins, but here you can portion the fat perfectly using the dispenser function. Small detail, big effect. I like it. Price: €14.95 (100 ml) >> available here.

Conclusion: Fat is greasy, but the dispensing function of the packaging makes all the difference.

Strengths

• Dispenser function
• Good fat quality

Weaknesses

• Nothing

Handlebar - BBB Dualforce Inbus 6er /8er

Most pedals can be fitted with a 6- or 8-position Allen key. The Dualforce from BBB has both. The tool also sits comfortably in the hand and has a long lever. Admittedly: We in the FREERIDE test lab change more pedals than the hobby freerider. But for me it's still a tool I wouldn't want to do without. Price: 21,95 Euro >> available here.

Conclusion: Handy, functional, simple. Ideal for mounting pedals.

Strengths

• Grip feel
• Functional

Weaknesses

• Only for pedal multitaskers

Tax consultant - Xpro Ruckus stem

The XPro Style scores points with its solid CNC look. Because the small Regensburg label specialises in dirt bikes, the stem is only available as a 32-millimetre stub version with a 31.8 mm clamp. But the stem looks good on trail and enduro bikes. It generates very direct control. Weight: 146 grams, price: 119 euros.

Conclusion: Chic stub stem for very direct steering behaviour. Made in Regensburg.

Strengths

• Optics
• Made in Germany

Weaknesses

• Only one length and clamping diameter

More TEILE IN DANGER can be found here:

TIG: Rain suit, tyres and Fabio's shoes