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Gamechanger: Mudhugger Evo Bolt-On Shorty
Mudguards are for Dutch bikes and city bikes. At least that's what I thought for a long time. And so at first I was reluctant to fit the Mudhugger Evo for the front wheel on my bike. Then, on a muddy day in autumn, the time had come. I wanted to find out how much of the dirt that the tyres would otherwise kick up around my ears would actually get caught in such a mud flap.
The first impression: positive. Fitting is easy, the screw connection holds the tip guard firmly in place. And then: after the first ride, my vain thoughts and prejudices were gone. How cool is this mudguard!!! Even without goggles, my eyes and face were free of mud. A game changer. The latest front fender from Mudhugger is available to fit numerous fork models. Price: 43 Euro >> available here.
STRENGTHSAssembly, function (splash guard)
WEAKNESSESPrice
FREERIDE conclusion on the Mudhugger Evo Bolt-On Schorty mudguard
Stable, easy to mount, does everything a good fender has to do. Buy it!
Rev counter: Torque spanner Lezyne Torque Drive
If you lack the necessary sensitivity between tightening and loosening when screwing, it is better to use the Tool Torque spanner. However, this also applies on tour and especially when dealing with sensitive carbon parts, particularly with Handlebars and stems.
The Lezyne Torque Drive is a pocket-sized mini torque spanner. The set has six bits for the most common Torx and Allen screws. A few hand movements are required before the tool is ready for use. Then it sits comfortably in the hand. The torque can be easily adjusted between two and six Newton metres.
The downside is that you can't use it to loosen tight screws, as the rear part will turn with it. Unfortunately, the Lezyne Torque Drive mini torque spanner cannot replace the mini tool on the road. Weight: 156 grams, price: 50 euros.
STRENGTHS: Function, 2 to 6 Nm adjustable
WEAKNESSES: Fixed screws cannot be loosened with it
FREERIDE conclusion on the Lezyne Torque Drive torque spanner:
The small, compact Lezyne Torque Drive torque spanner works well. The torque can be set from 2 to 6 Nm. However, the spanner is not a mini-tool replacement and cannot be used to loosen tight screws.
Brit-Klicks: Hope Union TC clipless pedals
The Hope Union TC is the elegantly milled alternative to Shimano's TrailPedals. The workmanship is top-notch, the equipment extensive: Two cleat sets with 12 or 13 degree release angle and 4 or 5 degree float, shims for different shoe profiles, optional pins and a scale for the engagement hardness are standard. Titanium axles are available as an upgrade.
Even more important: the function. And it works. The stance is excellent, clicking in is even a little smoother than with the Japanese pedals and, after a short familiarisation period, absolutely reliable. Great because it's sustainable: the pedal can be completely dismantled for servicing and all parts are available separately as replacements. Weight 452 grams, price: 185 euros (RRP) >> at Bikeinn or Alltricks.
STRENGTHSFunction, processing
WEAKNESSESPrice
FREERIDE conclusion on the Hope Union TC clipless pedals:
Functional and stylish. Three ball bearings and one plain bearing promise a long service life.
Laurin Lehner
Editor
