Workshop

- The Sigma Aura 170 HB Link offers up to 170 lux of high beam, automatic brightness control, handlebar remote control and app connectivity for €169.95.  
- It is aimed at cyclists who ride frequently in the dark, such as commuters, road cyclists, gravel cyclists and e-bike riders, who need greater visibility on unlit routes.  
- The light can be integrated into a connected system comprising the Sigma Ride app, the Hiro rear light and the Reco Link radar, thereby enhancing usability and safety.

Sigma Aura 170 HB Link: When is a bike light with a high beam worth it?

- Maintenance products left on brake discs and pads significantly reduce braking performance and are very difficult to remove.  
- Muc-Off Road & Gravel Disc Brake Covers enclose the rotor and brake housing, thus protecting them from spray mist during maintenance work.  
- A two-part, reusable system comprising a base plate and a neoprene sleeve, which can also be used as transport protection; price: 33 euros.

Muc-Off Disc Brake Cover: Protection for brake discs

- Sigma is launching the Smart Light Series with two product ranges: Core for everyday use and commuting, and Link with connectivity, high beam and radar.
- Link models such as the AURA 120/170 offer automatic light control, high beam, app control, pairing with HIRO rear lights and RECO radar.
- New HIRO rear lights incorporate brake lights and emergency brake lights; radar is integrated into the lighting system, whilst accessories ensure a tidy cockpit.

​Sigma Smart Light Series: A new generation of lights brings high beams, app connectivity and radar to the bike cockpit

- Noises on a mountain bike are usually caused by friction, play, dirt or loose connections and should be systematically traced to their source.  
- Critical issues include cracks, excessive bearing play, loose brake parts, motor problems and damage to carbon or e-bike components – these require a specialist workshop.  
- Diagnostic plan: Identify the noise and its cause; check the bike whilst stationary; work from the rear to the front; test only one measure at a time; and carry out a safety check.

Squeaking, creaking, cracking, clattering, rattling: analysing noises on a bicycle

- The range features 14 specific gravel components, from pedals, saddles and tyres right through to clothing, bags and tools.
- The focus is on greater comfort, efficiency and storage space for gravel riding, for example through suspension, additional bags and optimised hydration solutions.
- Many components are designed for low weight, robust materials and ease of use in gravel conditions.

Stylish gear for gravel cyclists: 14 items for your gravel adventure

- Silca Super Secret 2.0 uses a new emulsifier and smaller wax particles for greater coverage and better grip in wet conditions.  
- The manufacturer claims a range of 350–400 km per application and up to 0.8 watts less friction loss than its predecessor.  
- The reviewer praises the clean, low-wear chain and ease of use, but criticises the high price and the need for an initial hot wax application.

No need for hot wax: Silca Super Secret 2.0 drip wax with a range of 400 km

CARE | LUBRICANTS

- Compact Wera bicycle maintenance set with a cross-handle ratchet, precision bits and a wall rack for typical maintenance tasks at home.  
- Strengths: high build quality, ergonomic handling, good power transmission and a snug fit for the bits.  
- Weaknesses: Torx screwdriver instead of long Torx bits; limited leverage for tight-fitting or deep-set screws.

Review of the Wera bicycle maintenance kit: strengths and weaknesses

- Pro Air Lift is a pneumatic, portable assembly stand for e-bikes weighing up to 45 kg, requiring no electricity or battery power.  
- It offers a working height of 108–169 cm, weighs 8.1 kg, uses compressed air supplied by a floor pump or compressor, and is lowered via a foot-operated valve.  
- Price: 725 euros; fully repairable with spare parts available; aimed at ambitious DIY mechanics and workshops.

Handling heavy e-MTBs: What the new Pro Air Lift assembly stand can do in day-to-day workshop use

- E-MTB stands need a high load capacity (at least 35 kg), a large base and a gentle, easy-to-use clamping mechanism on the seat post.  
- Recommended models for heavy e-MTBs: Feedback Sports Pro Mechanic HD, Topeak PrepStand Team Issue, Park Tool PCS-10.3.  
- Where possible, remove the battery before carrying out any work; secure the bike firmly with the seatpost fully extended and ensure the stand is stable.

E-bike workstands: The best workstands for heavy loads

TOOLS

- A freewheel connects the cassette and the hub on one side; pawl mechanisms produce the characteristic clicking sound, the volume of which depends on the teeth and lubrication.
- Changing trends: In the past, a loud freewheel was regarded as a status symbol; today, there is a growing desire for quiet hubs, particularly for environmental and animal welfare reasons.
- Supporters celebrate the individual, evocative sound of the freewheel, whilst opponents criticise it as noise that is particularly disruptive in natural surroundings.

Pros and Cons: How noisy is an MTB freewheel allowed to be? Two types, two opinions

- Chain breaks are usually caused by wear and tear, incorrect gear changes under load, pre-existing damage to the rivets, or faulty quick-links on modern 11- or 12-speed chains.  
- For repairs on the go, a chain tool and a suitable quick-link are essential; remove any damaged links, fit the quick-link and check the chain length.  
- As a last resort, a single-speed configuration can be used without tools; the best way to prevent problems is to check for wear regularly and replace the chain in good time.

Chain break! What now?: What to do if your chain breaks

- The Shimano Shadow+ lever cushions the movement of the derailleur cage, reduces chain slap and ensures a smoother ride and greater chain stability, particularly off-road.  
- When riding, the lever should be set to ‘On’; when fitting or removing the rear wheel, set it to ‘Off’, as this allows the derailleur cage to move more freely.  
- The lever does not increase chain tension, but merely restricts the movement of the derailleur cage; new XT and Deore rear derailleurs use Shadow ES without a lever.

Shimano Shadow RD+: Every cyclist needs to know about this lever!

CIRCUIT | DRIVE

- The new Shimano Deore M7200/M6200 offers greater durability, more precise shifting and improved ergonomics in the mid-range price segment.  
- Redesigned rear derailleur with Shadow ES and dual-spring system increases chain stability by 70%; new brakes utilise XT/XTR technology.  
- Deore remains mechanical, offering 11- and 12-speed options; a typical complete bike configuration costs €379.75 and is closing the performance gap with the top tier.

New Shimano Deore groupset: even more robust, even more precise

- Editor Jan Timmermann builds one of the first 32-inch mountain bikes, the Leovelo Goliath, with exclusive tuning and standard parts.
- He solders the steel frame himself, helps laminate the carbon wheels and visits the fork manufacturer before all the parts are assembled.
- The build is emotionally charged; every detail is carefully chosen and reminds him of the elaborate do-it-yourself creation story.

Project Goliath: 32-inch hardtail in the Dreambuild

- The Brake Caliper Aligner Tool mechanically centres brake calipers to reduce squeaking, uneven wear and poor braking feel.
- The PA-Composite tool is inserted into the brake caliper housing, protects the disc from scratches and is suitable for MTBs, gravel bikes and road bikes.
- There are specific versions available for Shimano, SRAM and TRP two- and four-piston brakes; price of the tool: €14.90.

Zine Brake Disc Tool: Put an end to squeaky disc brakes

- Larger brake discs significantly increase braking torque (e.g. 200 mm ≈ +11 per cent, 220 mm ≈ +22 per cent compared with 180 mm) and reduce the force required to operate the brakes.  
- A larger disc diameter offers better modulation, greater resistance to fade and thermal benefits, particularly for heavier riders, e-MTBs and bike park use.  
- The limits are set by the maximum size approved by the manufacturer; larger discs increase the load on components and require greater finesse, particularly on the front wheel.

​20 per cent more braking power: what large brake discs really offer

- Careful caliper alignment, clean discs and correct in-running are crucial for a firm bite and maximum braking performance.
- Incorrect brake fluid, resin-only discs with sintered pads and air in the system lead to seal failure, overheating and a spongy pedal feel.
- Cleaning the pistons before pushing them back, and using intermittent braking rather than continuous braking, prevent pad scuffing, fade and stuck pistons.

Throttle-braked: The 7 deadly sins of disc brake maintenance

BRAKES

- Salsa is launching the Fargo as a 32-inch adventure bike, with a focus on efficiency, traction and a smooth ride over long, varied distances.  
- Frames made from chromoly steel or titanium, a new carbon fork with cargo mounts, Multi-Fit Geometry and numerous attachment points for bikepacking.  
- With the Fargo 32, Salsa is establishing a production-ready 32-inch ecosystem; whether it will eventually replace the 29-inch model remains to be seen, though initial advantages on long-distance rides are considered possible.

​Salsa Fargo 32: Iconic bikepacking bike now comes with 32-inch wheels

- K.I.S. stabilises the steering and, according to its advocates, offers benefits at speed, on challenging trails and potentially also on racing and city bikes.
- Despite positive test results, K.I.S. has struggled to gain widespread acceptance: its exclusivity to Canyon, scepticism regarding the additional component, a lack of established use in racing, and mixed opinions.
- Canyon still fits K.I.S. to some models, but will focus on simplicity in future; a widespread relaunch by other manufacturers is considered unlikely.

Steering Assistant: (Unintended) steering assistance: Why K.I.S. has not caught on

- Head tubes connect the fork to the frame, have a slight influence on the geometry and must withstand high forces, dirt and water.
- Modern MTB frames primarily use ZS and IS systems for tapered forks; EC is robust but now plays only a minor role.
- Designations such as ZS44/ZS56 or IS42/IS52 indicate the internal diameter; the frame standard, headset type and fork steerer must all be compatible.

Mountain bike chainring standards: What EC, ZS & IS really mean

FRAME

- SL Grano F Silver Edition: sandblasted 6061-T6 aluminium housing, 170 g, 1,100 lm high beam, 230 m range, StVZO-approved, 269 euros.  
- Three modes (daytime running light, dipped beam, full beam), 17 Wh battery for 1.5–12 hours’ runtime, USB-C charging in 3.5 hours, IPX6, IK09, -15 to +50 °C.  
- Controlled via a Bluetooth remote on the handlebars, automatic mode with brightness sensor, GoPro mount, compatible with Rotlicht Pro BT.

Lupine SL Grano F Silver Edition: StVZO-compliant front light with 1,100 lumens

- From August 2026, Cateye will be launching four new StVZO-compliant USB-C lights with replaceable batteries and IPX4 protection, manufactured in Japan.
- The GVolt 300/200 are designed for everyday use and commuters, differing primarily in lumens (300 vs. 200), runtime and a limited-edition Hokusai version.
- The VIZ G and Nano G II offer long battery life, all-round and side visibility respectively, snap-on mounts and compatibility with the new RM3 saddle mount.

Cateye: Affordable lights for everyday use and cycling tours

- High-quality cycling products such as sports glasses, smartwatches, headlamps and rucksacks can be used for many sports and enhance safety and comfort.
- Versatile clothing items such as neck warmers, socks, wind vests, base layers and arm warmers allow for flexible adaptation to weather conditions and exertion levels across various disciplines.
- Multifunctional kit saves money and storage space and is suitable for cycling, running, hiking, trail running, winter sports and other outdoor activities.

Versatile cycling accessories: 10 multi-purpose products

BIKE LIGHT

- Wahoo is introducing a three-tier subscription scheme for the app: Base (free), Core (€4.99 per month) and Pro (€17.99 per month), with varying levels of functionality.  
- Core features include 4DP for cyclists and 3DP for runners, supplemented by COROS integration and a wide range of endurance and supplementary training programmes.  
- Base offers basic tracking; Core adds analytics and training insights; Pro includes access to SYSTM, plans, video workouts and mental/recovery workouts.

Training app update: New Wahoo subscriptions & running features

- Quad Lock comes out on top with a score of 1.2 thanks to its very secure grip, high-quality case and versatile – albeit expensive and more complicated – design.  
- SP Connect (score 1.3) offers a similar system with a good case, simple installation and slightly less rigidity, but is significantly cheaper.  
- Topeak is our top pick for value for money; Fidlock is particularly light and comfortable; Acid and SKS are sturdy and affordable respectively, but both are relatively heavy.

Smartphone handlebar mounts put to the test: keep an eye on your sat-nav

- The Topeak Omni RideCase II costs around 30 euros, weighs 55 g and achieved an overall score of 1.5 in the test.
- Universal smartphone holder with an elastic rubber or silicone mesh; buttons remain accessible and it provides a secure hold even on bumpy terrain.
- Tool-free attachment via a Velcro strap to almost all handlebars/stems with a circumference of up to 150 mm; may slip on very smooth surfaces.

Topeak smartphone mount review: a great value-for-money choice for the masses

BIKE COMPUTER

- SKS Clic Ace is a range of pumps designed specifically for the Schwalbe Clik Valve, featuring an integrated Clik-Tec head and a secure lock-in mechanism on the valve.  
- Four models cover high-volume, high-pressure and CO₂ use, as well as a battery-powered mini pump with hands-free pumping.  
- The Clik Valve makes pumping significantly easier, but is only worthwhile for bikes that have already been fitted with it, as retrofitting is time-consuming and expensive.

SKS Clik Ace: New range of mini-pumps is designed exclusively for the Schwalbe Clik Valve

- Schwalbe is launching the E-Micro Pump, an electric mini-pump with a maximum pressure of 8.3 bar, weighing 130 g and measuring 73 × 50 × 32 mm.  
- The pump features a digital pressure display, a USB-C rechargeable battery and is compatible with the Schwalbe Clik Valve (via an adapter), as well as SV, AV and DV valves.  
- It is aimed at riders of various types of bikes; availability from August 2026, recommended retail price €89.90.

Schwalbe E-Micro Pump: Electric mini-pump with a maximum pressure of 8.3 bar

- Cordless battery-powered compressor with easy-to-read display, auto-stop function, LED light and adapter set; max. 7 bar, USB-C charging, versatile.  
- Long running time, quiet operation, minimal heat build-up; inflates a 29" MTB tyre (2.25") to 2 bar in 64 seconds, average inflation speed.  
- Relatively large and heavy (468 g, can-sized), so unsuitable for a jersey pocket, but handy for a rucksack, car or workshop; price approx. €35.

Osram Tyreinflate 1600 review: A long-lasting cordless pump for MTB tyres

PUMPS

- The Wolf Tooth Echo Lock On is a premium mountain bike grip made from 20A rubber, with a diameter of 32 mm, a length of 132 mm and a weight of 120 g.  
- It offers a comfortable thickness, good shock absorption and a high level of control, particularly for larger hands, thanks to its closely spaced lugs.  
- High-quality CNC manufacturing in the USA, a wide range of colour options and easy fitting; the downsides are the higher price and the fact that it is not particularly lightweight.

Stylish grips made in the USA: the Wolf Tooth Echo Lock On put to the test

- Many CX errors are caused by simple issues such as sensor or button faults and can often be resolved by restarting the device and carrying out a visual inspection.  
- Certain error codes (e.g. 440, 450, 500, 602, 603) must be diagnosed by a specialist workshop; under no circumstances should the motor or battery compartments be opened.  
- Common checks: battery fit, display, connectors, temperature, speed sensor/magnet, and software version via the eBike Flow app.

Bosch Performance Line CX Gen5: The most important error codes and their causes

- Dangerholm’s Scott Spark RC weighs 8.99 kg, is based on the Spark RC SL with 120 mm of travel, and is designed for practical use in marathon racing.
- Weight is reduced by a paint-stripped carbon frame and lightweight components such as Pi Rope wheels, a titanium crankset and a Vertical Helium Race dropper post.
- Unique details such as the Flight Attendant suspension, Trickstuff Piccola brakes and a polished raw carbon finish characterise the bike as thoroughly tuned.

Dangerholm’s Scott Spark RC: Under 9 kg despite system integration

TUNING

Workshop tips, tricks and instructions for screwing on the bike ✅ Tools for repairs in the home workshop ✅ Test reports

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MTB workshop: Tips, tricks, instructions & test reports | BIKE

Sigma Aura 170 HB LinkWhen is a bike light with a high beam worth it?

Muc-Off Disc Brake CoverProtection for brake discs

​Sigma Smart Light SeriesA new generation of lights brings high beams, app connectivity and radar to the bike cockpit

CARE | LUBRICANTS

Squeaking, creaking, cracking, clattering, rattlingAnalysing noises on a bicycle

Stylish gear for gravel cyclists14 items for your gravel adventure

No need for hot waxSilca Super Secret 2.0 drip wax with a range of 400 km

TOOLS

Review of the Wera bicycle maintenance kitStrengths and weaknesses

Handling heavy e-MTBsWhat the new Pro Air Lift assembly stand can do in day-to-day workshop use

E-bike workstandsThe best workstands for heavy loads

CIRCUIT | DRIVE

Pros and ConsHow noisy is an MTB freewheel allowed to be? Two types, two opinions

Chain break! What now?What to do if your chain breaks

Shimano Shadow RD+Every cyclist needs to know about this lever!

New Shimano Deore groupsetEven more robust, even more precise

Project Goliath32-inch hardtail in the Dreambuild

BRAKES

Zine Brake Disc ToolPut an end to squeaky disc brakes

​20 per cent more braking powerWhat large brake discs really offer

Throttle-brakedThe 7 deadly sins of disc brake maintenance

FRAME

​Salsa Fargo 32Iconic bikepacking bike now comes with 32-inch wheels

Steering Assistant(Unintended) steering assistance: Why K.I.S. has not caught on

Mountain bike chainring standardsWhat EC, ZS & IS really mean

BIKE LIGHT

Lupine SL Grano F Silver EditionStVZO-compliant front light with 1,100 lumens

CateyeAffordable lights for everyday use and cycling tours

Versatile cycling accessories10 multi-purpose products

BIKE COMPUTER

Training app updateNew Wahoo subscriptions & running features

Smartphone handlebar mounts put to the testKeep an eye on your sat-nav

Topeak smartphone mount reviewA great value-for-money choice for the masses

PUMPS

SKS Clik AceNew range of mini-pumps is designed exclusively for the Schwalbe Clik Valve

Schwalbe E-Micro PumpElectric mini-pump with a maximum pressure of 8.3 bar

Osram Tyreinflate 1600 reviewA long-lasting cordless pump for MTB tyres

TUNING

Stylish grips made in the USAThe Wolf Tooth Echo Lock On put to the test

Bosch Performance Line CX Gen5The most important error codes and their causes

Dangerholm’s Scott Spark RCUnder 9 kg despite system integration

Sigma Aura 170 HB Link
When is a bike light with a high beam worth it?

Muc-Off Disc Brake Cover
Protection for brake discs

Sigma Smart Light Series
A new generation of lights brings high beams, app connectivity and radar to the bike cockpit

Squeaking, creaking, cracking, clattering, rattling
Analysing noises on a bicycle

Stylish gear for gravel cyclists
14 items for your gravel adventure

No need for hot wax
Silca Super Secret 2.0 drip wax with a range of 400 km

Review of the Wera bicycle maintenance kit
Strengths and weaknesses

Handling heavy e-MTBs
What the new Pro Air Lift assembly stand can do in day-to-day workshop use

E-bike workstands
The best workstands for heavy loads

Pros and Cons
How noisy is an MTB freewheel allowed to be? Two types, two opinions

Chain break! What now?
What to do if your chain breaks

Shimano Shadow RD+
Every cyclist needs to know about this lever!

New Shimano Deore groupset
Even more robust, even more precise

Project Goliath
32-inch hardtail in the Dreambuild

Zine Brake Disc Tool
Put an end to squeaky disc brakes

20 per cent more braking power
What large brake discs really offer

Throttle-braked
The 7 deadly sins of disc brake maintenance

Salsa Fargo 32
Iconic bikepacking bike now comes with 32-inch wheels

Steering Assistant
(Unintended) steering assistance: Why K.I.S. has not caught on

Mountain bike chainring standards
What EC, ZS & IS really mean

Lupine SL Grano F Silver Edition
StVZO-compliant front light with 1,100 lumens

Cateye
Affordable lights for everyday use and cycling tours

Versatile cycling accessories
10 multi-purpose products

Training app update
New Wahoo subscriptions & running features

Smartphone handlebar mounts put to the test
Keep an eye on your sat-nav

Topeak smartphone mount review
A great value-for-money choice for the masses

SKS Clik Ace
New range of mini-pumps is designed exclusively for the Schwalbe Clik Valve

Schwalbe E-Micro Pump
Electric mini-pump with a maximum pressure of 8.3 bar

Osram Tyreinflate 1600 review
A long-lasting cordless pump for MTB tyres

Stylish grips made in the USA
The Wolf Tooth Echo Lock On put to the test

Bosch Performance Line CX Gen5
The most important error codes and their causes

Dangerholm’s Scott Spark RC
Under 9 kg despite system integration