Saturday, March 17, 2018

2018 Scott Scale 950/960 REVIEW


Scott has brought quality machines to the market for years, and 2018 is no different. Today we will be highlighting the 29er 2018 Scott Scale 950 and 960. These bikes bring a well rounded approach to mountain biking that make even casual, hobbyist riders feel like the pros. Let’s take a look “under the hood.”



Frame

The frame is Scott’s Aluminum Alloy 6061 Boost Frame. In 2018, Scott has given this frame a significant overhaul. A brand new frame geometry and the lightweight alloy material make for a smoother ride than ever before. The rear triangle has been built considerably rigid, providing built in support for power breaking. This ensures unbeatable stopping power even in the stickiest of situations. The downtube has been constructed to be substantially thicker, allowing for each stroke of the pedal to be more powerful and overall ride quality to be greatly improved. Additionally, the curved seat tube offers an increase in comfort on your ride as well as an increase in pedaling efficiency. All of these things together make for a ride so smooth and controlled, you will forget you have bought an aluminum bike and instead will enjoy a ride quality comparable to Scott’s carbon frames.



Suspension

The Scale’s shocks absorb mighty blows while being able to lock out in a hurry. On the 950, a Fox 32 Float Rhythm Fork with 100mm in travel eat up rocks, roots, and anything else getting in the way to slow you down on a descent. It is coupled with the Scott RideLoc 3-mode remote, which will allow you to make smooth transitions from full travel all the way to a lockout at lightning speed. On the 960, you won’t be sacrificing much. It is equipped with the Rock Shox Recon Silver RL Solo Air Fork with 100mm of travel. Although it is only set up with the RideLoc 2-mode remote, you will still find the same fast, seamless transitions when you need them the most.



Specs

These two bikes are very similar, aside from a few small differences in the components. Let’s take a closer look at the side-by-side comparison:

 Scale 950                                                        Scale 960

Frame: Aluminum Alloy 6061 Boost              Frame: Aluminum Alloy 6061 Boost
Fork: Fox 32 Float Rhythm 100mm                Fork: Rock Shox Recon Silver RL Solo Air 100mm
          Scott RideLoc 3-mode remote                       Scott RideLoc 2-mode remote
Brakes: Shimano MT500 Disc Brakes             Brakes: Shimano M425 Disc Brakes
Approximate weight: 26.23 lbs                      Approximate weight: 28 lbs



Conclusion

The Scale is a great all around ride. Scott paid special attention this time around to offer a ride that is equal parts agile, powerful, and comfortable across a variety of terrains. The high quality components make you feel just like one of the pros. Going with the 29er option will get you over any rough terrain with absolute ease. For being 29ers, and a hardtail at that, these bikes holds its own on even advanced decents.

If you would like to come check out these bikes for a test ride, come into our store and we'll be sure to take care of you!

Friday, February 23, 2018

Scott 2018 Speedster 20 Disc Gravel Bike Review - Works on San Antonio Mud and Pavement, Too






Here is BikeRadar’s Verdict on the 2018 Scott Speedster 20 Disc

"It’s frustratingly close to the perfect all-rounder, but minor details let it down"
Highs: Balanced ride quality, sensible spec
Buy if: You want a speedy alloy bike with decent disc brakes

Scott redesigned the Speedster for 2018 to reduce weight and increase performance. The Speedster features an aluminum frame and carbon fork.The carbon steer tube contributes to the weight savings.
The headtube is extended to create a more upright position than you might expect on this class of bike. Finding the right gear is a breeze with Shimano’s Tiagra drivetrain including a 20-speed gear range.

What really separates Speedster from the competition would be the hydraulic disc brakes, which reviewers are raving about. Shimano’s RS505 levers are a perfect companion to the rest of the braking componentry including: 105 Shimano mechanicals plus a finishing kit and wheels from Snycross, Scott’s in-house component brand. Good disc brake systems are hugely useful when you’re riding in the mud or other sloppy conditions. 


The Speedster Disc would be the perfect choice as a solid, quick commuter bike, a winter trainer, or a good versatile bike to use for any occasion. The Speedster is also an awesome choice for a century ride or chasing increased fitness. Available in seven sizes from 47cm to 61cm. The Speedster comes complete with full mudguard mounts at the rear. 




Bike Radar notes that “the Speedster is respectably stiff and lively, more so than its robust weight figure suggests.


  • Frame

    Speedster CX Disc / D.Butted 6061 Alloy / CX geometry / Integrated Headtube
  • Fork

    Speedster Carbon/Alloy Disc
    1 1/8" Alloy steerer
  • Headset

    Integrated Cartridge
  • Rear Derailleur

    Shimano Tiagra RD-4700-GS
    20 Speed
  • Front Derailleur

    Shimano Tiagra FD-4700
  • Shifters

    Shimano Tiagra ST-4700
    Dual control 20 Speed
  • Brakes

    Shimano BR-R317 Black Mech. Disc
    160/F and 160/R mm SM-RT56 Rotor
  • Crankset

    Shimano FC-R460 Black
    Hyperdrive 34x46 T
  • BB-Set

    Shimano BB-RS500
  • Handlebar

    Syncros RR2.0
    Anatomic 31.8mm
  • H'stem

    Syncros FL2.0
    1 1/8" / four Bolt 31.8mm
  • Seatpost

    Syncros RR2.5
    31.6/300mm
  • Seat

    Syncros FL2.5
  • Hub (Front)

    Formula Team 28 H
  • Hub (Rear)

    Formula Team 28 H
  • Chain

    KMC X10
  • Cassette

    Shimano HG-500
    11-32 T
  • Spokes

    HTI - Standard Black 2mm
  • Rims

    Syncros Race 22 Disc
    28 Front / 28 Rear
  • Tires

    Kenda Kwick
    700x35C
  • Approx weights in KG

    10.96
  • Approx weights in LBS

    24.16

The Scott Aspect 940 for 2018 Review - Great Mountain Hardtail Bike For San Antonio



2018 Scott Aspect 940

The SCOTT Aspect 940 is a mountain hardtail that is designed to be light, efficient and reasonably priced. Featuring a lockout mechanism for the fork, disc brakes and Syncros components, this is the perfect bike for the novice or budget conscious mountain biker.




Bike Radar said about the Scott Aspect 940


the Scott aspect 940 might be at the budget end of Scotts range but it does a really impressive job of looking like it's more expensive siblings. The 2018 Aspect 940 has a nicely made aluminum frame which uses 29 wheels, which is really good. They help smooth out the bumps. They get the best feedback. They also calm down the handling a little bit. So, if you're maybe a little bit more nervous, you'll get less of a twitchy feel from the bike.

Something Scott's done really well is that they've put pretty good geometry similar to they're more expensive bikes. On the Aspect 940 bike they just made it short and steep and a sort of low bottom bracket that makes the bike comfortable for beginners. The only downside is it's quite heavy. But that's just a function of the spec. That said, the spec might be heavy, but it works really well. This is a bike that's right for a bit of upgrading.

Specs for the 2018 Scott Aspect 940 Mountain Hardtail

  • Frame
Aspect 700/900 series
Alloy 6061 DB / Performance geometry
Internal cable routing
  • Fork
Suntour XCM-HLO
Hyd. Lockout / 100mm travel
  • Headset
Ritchey LOGIC ZERO-OE
  • Rear Derailleur
Shimano Alivio RD-M4000
27 Speed
  • Front Derailleur
Shimano FD-M3000 / 31.8mm
  • Shifters
Shimano SL-M2000-9R
R-fire plus
  • Brake Levers
Shimano BL-M31
  • Brakes
Shimano BR-M315 / Hydr. Disc
SM-RT10 CL Rotor / 160F/160R
  • Crankset
Shimano FC-M2000
40X-30x22
  • BB-Set
Shimano BB-UN-26
Cartridge Type
  • Handlebar
Syncros M3.0 / 720mm
black / 31,8mm / 12mm rise / 9° BS
  • H'stem
Syncros M3.0 / 7° / Black
  • Pedals
VP VP-536
  • Seatpost
Syncros M3.0
27.2mm / 350mm / Black
  • Seat
Syncros M3.0
  • Hub (Front)
Shimano HB TX505

  • Hub (Rear)
Shimano FH-TX5058
  • Chain
KMC X9
  • Cassette
Shimano CS-HG200-9 / 11-34T
  • Spokes
14 G / stainless / black
  • Rims
Syncros X-20 Disc
32H / black
  • Tires
Kenda Slant 6
2.35 / 30TPI
  • Approx weights in KG
14.30
  • Approx weights in LBS
31.53
  • System Weight
128 kg
The overall weight includes the bike, the rider, the equipment and possible additional luggage.





Friday, August 11, 2017

2017 Fuji Nevada 1.7 29er Review


The 2017 Fuji Nevada 1.7 - Where Comfort and Control Come Together


Don’t solidify your weekend plans just yet. The 2017 Fuji Nevada 1.7 29er might change everything. Fuji packs a versatile punch in this very affordable hardtail mountain bike. With a premium build, features, and components its $599.99 MSRP pricetag is an absolute steal. Fuji has built this bike with both comfort and functionality in mind.  Borrowing frame geometry from their highest end models, you will experience competitive trail comfort and performance. But the Nevada doesn’t stop there. This bike is fit for a casual ride around the neighborhood or a commute to work as well. Made with versatility in mind, you can ride this bike wherever your heart desires. 29 inch wheels will smooth over rocks and roots to make a technical trail feel like a smooth road and the hardtail build allows for great control. With all of that in mind, let’s take a closer look at what makes this bike so desirable.



Frame


The Fuji A2-SL custom aluminum frame provides both durability and control. On the back end, the Fuji A1-SL alloy rear triangle is designed to give you the most out of your ride. This rear triangle is highlighted by S-bend chainstays that have been designed to reduce frame vibration. This will allow an increase in your pedal performance while limiting muscle fatigue on your roughest ride. The frame also features a PowerCurve down tube which offers huge support for trail impact and improves handling. This frame has your best interests in mind and does not compensate on performance or comfort.

The fork is an SR Suntour 29er with a hydraulic lockout. Lock up the fork and enjoy steady, easy climbs with increased pedaling efficiency, or let it loose and use up all 100mm of travel to eat up rocks and roots.



Gear


-       3x8 Shimano Altus/Acera drivetrain

The Acera rear derailleur has eight gears for virtually unlimited flexibility in ride styles. 24 total speeds free you up to ride in any style or condition. Uphill climbs can be conquered with ease. Technical trails can be mastered. Even a straightaway road will feel like you are putting in no work at all. This great drivetrain is controlled by Rapid Fire speed shifters to make your shifting faster and easier than ever before, giving you total control over your environment.

-       Tektro mechanical disc brakes

Disc brakes have been regarded as the obvious superior to rim brakes, offering more responsiveness and control. Tektro brakes offer that and more. They are incredibly user friendly and will take no time getting used to. With 180/160mm rotors, your braking will be responsive and smoother than ever. Additionally, these brakes tout elite stopping power in both wet and dry conditions.



The 2017 Fuji Nevada is designed to accommodate riders of all styles and experience levels – from someone looking to break into the mountain bike scene all the way up to people who want to enter their first race. It is ideal for urban riding and intermediate trails, but is so versatile that you won’t find a ride it can’t handle. If you want to make this bike yours and confirm your weekend plans, come in and test ride it today!

Thursday, August 10, 2017

2017 Scott Spark 960 - FULL REVIEW


Today, let’s take a look at the 2017 Scott Spark 960, a full suspension XC mountain bike that is so light and so fast that it was a clear option for Nino Schurter in the 2016 Rio Olympics. It comes in at a price point of $1,999 MSRP, with higher priced sub model options.



Let’s look at the specs:

Frame


Scott features the Spark 3 Alloy SL 6011 frame on the Spark. The carbon alloy, custom butted hydroformed tubing allows the Spark to be lightweight without sacrificing much as far as durability. It has a tapered headtube as well as dropouts for 141x5mm.



Shocks


Scott continues their excellence in suspension by showcasing their amazing Twin Loc technology. This remote allows to switch between three suspension modes with the click of a button. You can opt for full travel in the front and back shocks – great for eating up roots, rocks, and rough roads. The second option is for traction mode on in the rear with full travel in front. This is great for maintaining control, essentially turning this versatile bike into a hardtail. The last option allows for a full, simultaneous lock out on both shocks for when you need to ride more casually.

The fork comes equipped with the Rock Shox Recon Silver RL Solo Air, a tapered steerer, and of course the option to lockout. The shock has 120mm of travel. While there are other bikes in competition that have bigger travel than this, the Spark still provides a plenty smooth ride

The rear shock is an X-Fusion NUDE Trunnion with Scott custom travel. Again, there are three mod options on the rear suspension – lockout, traction control, and full travel – and the full travel is at 120mm.



Ride


The Spark 960 is relatively responsive and can smoothly roll over logs, rocks, and other odd bumps in a trail. That being said, Sparks have always been built for speed, and the 2017 is no different. If you are looking for a downhill bike, the Spark is not your best choice. However, if you’re looking for a speedy, responsive XC racer, look no further.




Rear derailleur: Shimano SLX RD-M7000-10 SGS 20 Speed

Front derailleur: Shimano Deore FD-M617-D w/side swing

Shifters: Shimano Deore SL-M610 / Rapidfire Plus; 2 way release with gear indicator

Brakes: Shimano M365 Disc brakes
            180mm F&R / SM-RT30 CL Rotor

Crankset: Shimano FC-M627-B2 / 2-piece design

Rims: Syncros X-23 / 32H Tubless ready

Tires: Maxxis Forekaster / 2.35 / 60TPI



If you think that the Scott Spark 960 is the bike for you, come in to our shop today and we’ll get you set up!

Wednesday, August 9, 2017

2017 BMC Road Machine 02 - REVIEW


 Versatile, Sleek, and Durable - The 2017 BMC Road Machine Has It All!



Today we are reviewing the 2017 BMC Road Machine 02. BMC envisioned this bike as the perfect combination between the racing performance of the Teammachine and the comfort and durability of the endurance style Granfondo. BMC tagged the Road Machine as “the one bike collection,” drawing a stiff, responsive ride with a lightweight frame from the Teammachine while providing an endurance driven, compliant build from the Granfondo. This bike was envisioned from the beginning as a machine built with disc brakes, and it achieved its goal. The Road Machine was named Cycling Weekly’s “Aero Bike of the Year 2017” and truly provides high versatility and compatibility for different riding styles.



Frame


The mid-grade 02 model uses a carbon frame built with a geometry to accommodate endurance style riding. Its power transfer parts – headtube, chainstays, and downtube – are built oversized and stiff, while the seatstays, seatube, and fork have been designed for a comfortable ride, this means that rougher roads can be smoothed over without compensating too much speed. The seattube specifically has been built for comfort. The junction sits roughly a third of the way down the frame, much lower than most bikes. This Angle Compliance Shaping allows for a lot of flex for comfort while still maintaining rear end responsiveness. Additionally, the d-shaped seatpost provides even more comfort in your ride.

This bike comes equipped with a carbon fork. The fork has a tapered tube shape that add to already great aerodynamics on the rest of the build. The headtube and steerer tube have been built with some extra thickness for added stiffness in the ride. With a long fork steerer and two sets of headset spacers, you can opt for a race style or more relaxed set-up depending on your preference or situation. Additionally, the fork has been designed with plenty of extra clearance for an increased tire width up to 30 mm.

The weight comes in at just over 18 pounds. Although this might seem a little heavy for a road bike, when you consider the added level of comfort compared to race style bikes and the extra material added to the frame for better aerodynamics and stiffness, it is relatively light. For context, the weight is comparable to lower level models of both the Gran Fondo and Teammachine.



Specs


The Road Machine features an Ultegra 11 speed drivetrain that is ideal for an all around bike like this one. Additionally, it is outfitted with Shimano 105 gears, Shimano RS505 hydraulic disk breaks, and Novatec 30SL wheels. BMC does not sacrifice when it comes to the equipment on their bikes, and we’re sure glad they don’t.




Ride and Feel


The racing features of the Road Machine offer a precision ride for the most technical routes. Quick, responsive steering makes it an ideal choice for sharp turns and is great on descents and for cornering. Because of its build specialized for disc brakes, it is very smooth on hard braking. One thing to keep in mind is that BMC is a biking company that loves to race and they are very good at building bikes for just that. Because of this, the Road Machine can have a hard ride like any other race bike by BMC, but the endurance influence still provides a comfortability that is hardly found on a normal race bike.

It comes standard with 25mm Continental Gran Sport Race tires. Leaving these tires on will add to the precision ride, but will take away from the comfort level the build can provide. Luckily, because of the extra clearance in the fork, a move to 30mm tires will flip the switch, taking away some from the responsiveness but adding a level of comfort.



Price


The price tag comes in at around $2,900 USD. This might seem a little pricy, especially when compared to previous years. When stacked against the competition, other bikes might have slightly better equipment, but the Road Machine offers versatility and build quality that makes them pale in comparison.



Conclusion


The BMC Road Machine is a great option for everyone from serious cyclists looking for a precision machine to someone wanting a comfortable, high performance commuter as a substitute to other means of transportation. High versatility and build quality highlight this beautiful bike’s characteristics. With the right care and maintenance, this bike can last a lifetime. It comes in a variety of colors to suit anyone’s cosmetic needs.



If you’re interested in making this bike yours or any other bikes in our inventory, come by the shop today and let us help you out!
 

  

Wednesday, May 28, 2014

Ksyrium Elite S and Cosmic Elite S Road and Triathlon Wheelsets From Mavic



 

The Famous Ksyrium Elite: Lightweight and Reliable Performance

Road & triathlon wheel: Ksyrium Elite S

 
True to its precedent of offering the high end technlogies usually reserved for only top of the line models, the Ksyrium Elite S takes another step forward to achieve weight savings matched by only a few wheels. This performance is enhanced even more with new extra light Yksion Pro tyres.
 
Weight : 2060 grams (pair of wheel)
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

 

The Access to the Mavic Aerodynamic WTS For Road Racers and Triathletes

Road & triathlon wheel: Cosmic Elite S

 
Cosmic Elite S is designed for high speed addicts. Deep profile rim coupled with high efficiency hubs and excellent bearings quality. This Wheel-Tyre System of choice for all speed enthusiasts now comes with the lightweight low rolling resistance Yksion Comp tyres.

Weight : 2380 grams (pair of wheel)








We'd love to help you choose the best wheelset for your needs. Come in today!