Right here we’re as soon as once more, skidding into the vacation season after a yr that appeared to evaporate into skinny air. I’d prefer to attribute that to a profitable mixture of using time and household time, however there’s all the time greater than sufficient ‘work’ to maintain us busy sufficient to lose observe of the calendar.
2024 helped launch too many new and thrilling merchandise to depend. Being far sufficient faraway from the pandemic’s begin appears to have spurred the discharge of a number of massive introductions that have been on maintain throughout extra tumultuous years. Both that has made selecting Editor’s Selection awards simpler than prior to now, or I’m getting higher at selecting the issues that deliver me probably the most pleasure.
Both approach, the next picks for the 2024 Editor’s Selection awards have been apparent standouts, and can be glorious additions to anybody’s gear secure within the new yr!
Finest Bike Expertise
Editor’s Selection Non-work Associated: Complete Eclipse Journey
Whereas many of the product picks have been simple to slim down, the perfect bike expertise is all the time a troublesome one. Merely put, we’re extremely lucky to expertise most of the greatest biking adventures, normally a number of occasions per yr. However the one which stands out probably the most to me wasn’t some elaborate press junket in a far-off place. As a substitute, it occurred in (close to) my yard, and concerned a uncommon celestial occasion with family and friends.
Initially, I had no plans to go see the full photo voltaic eclipse in April. However because the date neared, I made a decision I ought to at the very least strive because the path of totality was solely 45 minutes away. To my shock, one among our native MTB trails had availability at their campground two months out, so I booked a spot with out another plans. Because the occasion received nearer, every little thing got here collectively together with my household and Tyler and his household becoming a member of within the festivities.
Experiencing totality with everybody was life-changing, as was my journey with my daughter on the Shotgun Seat through the partial eclipse following. My daughter’s enthusiastic chatter concerning the eclipse and the ‘blue loop–fruit loop’ path is one thing I’ll always remember. You probably have the prospect to expertise a complete photo voltaic eclipse with household and buddies, don’t sleep on it. And ensure to deliver a motorcycle!
Editor’s Selection Work-Associated Expertise: Using to the Sea Otter Traditional with Otso
If I had to decide on an expertise that was purely work-related, it could be using from San Francisco to Monterey with Otso for the Sea Otter Traditional. In what looks like a ceremony of passage for any Sea Otter veteran, I’ve had the invitation to do that with just a few completely different firms over time, however the timing has by no means labored out.
This yr, that modified as the shortage of pre-show occasions meant I had sufficient time to fly into SFO to satisfy up with the Otso crew and begin making our strategy to Monterey. Initially the plan was to journey from close to SFO to the surprisingly posh Costanoa campground, spend the night time, after which make the massive push into Laguna Seca the next day. I missed the primary day of using after arriving underneath the climate, however after an unimaginable night time’s sleep in a tent bungalow, I wakened the next day prepared for a protracted journey on an Otso Waheela C.
I’m so glad it labored out, because the journey was unimaginable. It ended up being a protracted day since most of the Otso ambassadors alongside for the journey have been using principally loaded with all their bikepacking gear, however that simply meant we had loads of excuses to cease and odor the roses. Trip stops additionally included an incredible breakfast and occasional at Cat & Cloud in Santa Cruz, plus the requisite stops at hole-in-the-wall comfort shops for ice lotions and chilly drinks.
Getting misplaced in a sandy maze up the again aspect of Ft. Ord Nationwide Monument nearly broke us, however after re-establishing our navigation, we discovered our strategy to the venue drained however stoked.
Finest Mountain Bike
Editor’s Selection MTB: Ibis Ripley v5
The Ibis Ripley v4 is one among my favourite bikes – perhaps of all time. So after I heard concerning the main modifications to the bike for the following era, I had my reservations. I nonetheless love the v4, however there is no such thing as a query that the Ibis Ripley v5 is a way more trendy, and extra succesful bike that can shine in additional terrain. And that’s earlier than you exchange it to the Ripmo!
With a swap of the fork, shock, and shock clevis & eyelet {hardware}, you’ll be able to bump your 130/140mm journey Ripley to a 150/160mm journey Ripmo, and vice versa. I’ve but to journey the bike within the Ripmo configuration (coming quickly for the complete assessment), so for now, this award is proscribed to the Ripley.
Along with its shapeshifting skills, the Ripley/Ripmo will get actually useable inside downtube storage with a body that also suits a big water bottle even on the smaller sizes. Add within the capacity to run full 29″ wheels or MX 29/27.5″, ample 29 x 2.5″ tire clearance with customary Enhance 148mm rear wheel spacing, a threaded BB, looong dropper compatibility, glorious suspension, dialed geo, and attractiveness, and you’ve got a straightforward alternative for bike of the yr.
Finest Gravel Bike
Editor’s Selection Gravel: Pivot Vault Gen 4
In contrast to film sequels, it appears if in case you have an amazing bike to start out with, the following installment is usually an enchancment. Following the Ripley v5 for MTB, the Pivot Vault Gen 4. The Vault has developed fairly a bit since its early days as a CX-specific mannequin with the present model much less specialised and much more succesful.
In contrast to many different carbon gravel bikes on the market, the brand new Vault isn’t hyper-focused on gravel racing, or a super-slack fat-tire dropbar MTB. Reasonably than zeroing in on the extremes, the Vault strikes an ideal steadiness as an all-around gravel bike that will be simply as snug on a protracted and quick gravel race as it could be for a giant bikepacking journey.
The svelte body consists of a way more discreet Iso-Flex system which genuinely reduces suggestions felt via the saddle. The body additionally consists of inside body storage, tons of mounting choices together with full-coverage fenders, a number of cable routing choices, and clearance for meaty 700c x 50mm tires.
It’s mild, it’s environment friendly, and there are even full builds beginning at $3,999 which is spectacular for a Pivot.
Finest Parts
Editor’s Selection Suspension: Fox Stay Valve NEO
The extra electronics I accumulate, the much less I need to be related to my bikes – however I’ve to acknowledge an amazing product after I use it. The earlier Stay Valve system would by no means have been one thing I wished on my bikes. It was difficult, heavy, had a ton of wires, and did funky stuff relying on the terrain and using fashion.
Fox Stay Valve NEO however, is a revolution for Fox and suspension management basically. Beginning with the set up, NEO is very simple and simple so as to add to your bike. Consisting of only a rear shock and two brake sensors, the system can be utilized with any entrance fork and doesn’t require any further elements like energy meters, cadence sensors, and so forth.
The shortage of a fork lockout is one among my favourite issues concerning the system – the unique Stay Valve all the time required a harsh influence when the locked-out fork first hit one thing which triggered the fork and the remainder of the system to open. Now, your fork acts as regular and the opening of the rear shock is so quick and silent it’s laborious to even discover.
I’ve been using it on the Ibis Ripley v5 which is already an unimaginable pedaler, however the NEO shock has made it even higher. Immediately I used to be noticing sooner climbs with out giving up something on tough terrain. The shock does appear to make the bike sit up a little bit taller, and there are such a lot of changes within the Fox Bike app that I haven’t tried but, however to date NEO has completely exceeded any expectations.
Editor’s Selection Brakes: SRAM Maven SLV Brakes
I discussed this in our upcoming podcast, however the SRAM Maven brakes are the primary brakes from SRAM that I’ve wished to purchase with my very own cash in a very long time. They’re that good. In response to SRAM, these are probably the most highly effective brakes they’ve made and you’ll inform. Extra importantly, regardless of the earth-halting stopping energy, there may be loads of modulation to will let you management it. After working these on a heavy ebike, there’s no different brake I’d slightly have slowing me down.
The brakes are additionally primarily based on a mineral oil system which ought to make them extra sturdy in the long run. These in all probability provide an excessive amount of energy for lots of bikes, but when this can be a trace of the way forward for SRAM braking, I’m all for it.
Editor’s Selection Dropper Put up: WTC Resolve rev2
The unique Wolf Tooth Parts Resolve Dropper publish was already one among my favorites, so an improved Resolve rev2 model goes straight to the highest of the record. I can’t make use of the brand new “world’s longest” 242mm dropper size, however I can the brand new spool valve which reduces lever activation pressure by 25% together with higher self-bleeding performance. Higher nonetheless, the brand new posts are literally cheaper, and many of the updates are backward suitable with rev2 conversion kits obtainable for $79.95.
Editor’s Selection Wheels: Reserve 40/45
My ultimate gravel wheelset is one thing bomb-proof for on a regular basis adventures, broad for contemporary tires, mild weight, and aerodynamic. One thing just like the Reserve 40/45 wheelset. There are lighter or probably extra aerodynamic wheels on the market, however few mix that with absolutely the sturdiness and lifelong guarantee of the Reserve wheels.
I’ve crushed on these wheels every day since first mounting them up, and so they’ve carried out exquisitely with no single concern.
Editor’s Selection Tires: WTB Vulpine 45
2024 gave the impression to be the yr for quick 45mm gravel tires, and for me on the prime of that record is the WTB Vulpine 45. WTB additionally launched the Vulpine S which has a totally easy middle part very like Jordan’s choose of the Hutchinson Caracal. However after using the Vulpine 45 and Vulpine S again to again, I didn’t discover an enormous distinction in pace and rolling resistance on pavement, however the distinction in grip in slick off-road conditions was dramatic (if you happen to journey principally dry circumstances, the Vulpine S is a superb alternative).
I’m certain the Vulpine 45 will put on sooner than the ‘S’, however for many who desire a quick tire that also grips in most off-road conditions, the Vulpine 45 is the clear winner.
Finest Equipment
Editor’s Selection Pump: WTC EnCase Pump
I very hardly ever flat (knock on wooden). Regardless of that, I hardly ever journey with no pump. I don’t actually like CO2 and would favor one thing that’s going to work a number of occasions if you want it. The brand new EnCase pumps from Wolf Tooth Parts are glorious, and most significantly, the smallest 40cc pump will slot in your pocket, or in a downtube storage bag just like the Cotopaxi baggage included within the Ripley v5.
Meaning it’s all the time there if you want it, and you’ll even stash a tubeless plugger ultimately for the whole flat package package deal. The smaller pump will take some time to fill a big quantity tire, however it’s price it for me primarily based on how seldom it’s used.
Editor’s Selection Bike Transport: Blivet Tindr Tire Covers
Fats bikes pose some attention-grabbing transportation challenges, notably if you happen to journey when it’s icy. I’ve loads of bike racks that may carry a fats bike, however through the winter the final place I need my bike to be is getting sprayed with a salt bathtub on the again of my automotive. So I normally put my bikes inside my automotive through the winter (thanks Honda Ingredient). However studded tires make {that a} delicate affair, normally requiring just a few shifting blankets and cautious placement.
That was till I discovered about Blivet Sports activities and their Tindr tire covers. These bolstered 600-denier polyester covers wrap across the tire and forestall the studs from digging into your automotive or your self. They match 26″ x 4 to 4.8″ or 27.5 x 3.8 – 4.5″ tires, and promote for $50 per set. Properly price it in my view.
Blivet additionally has some unimaginable winter boots that have been a contender for an Editor’s Selection award, however I merely haven’t had sufficient time on them in chilly temperatures but. Test again subsequent yr because the Blivet Quilo FLT boots are already critically spectacular.
Editor’s Selection Restoration Product: KT Well being Ice Sleeve
You don’t get to be a middle-aged mountain biker with out some accidents alongside the way in which. This yr I used to be launched to KT Well being’s new line of merchandise which included their superb Ice Sleeve. It’s precisely what it appears like, however higher than you’ll count on. The gentle microfiber sleeve stays versatile when chilly, and the compressive sleeve retains it in place the place you want cooling remedy. It would by no means freeze stable, won’t ever leak even when punctured, and is available in a number of sizes to make use of on legs, arms, and extra (I used it flat on a damaged rib). These are completely definitely worth the $39.99 price ticket, and can assist shorten harm length and get you again within the saddle sooner.
Editor’s Selection Bike Adjoining: Engel UltraLite Onerous Cooler
Often we get an opportunity to check gear that I’d name bike adjoining. The Engel UltraLite Onerous Cooler is one such instance. What caught my consideration was that the 60 qt UltraLite was lighter than my Yeti Tundra 50 regardless of being 10 qt greater capability. Whereas the Engel ended up being almost 2lbs heavier than claimed (23.2 lbs), it’s nonetheless lighter than the Tundra 50 (25.8 lbs) and gives extra capability and easier-to-operate latches. It additionally features a divider and higher dry items basket, all whereas coming in at $130 cheaper than a comparable Yeti Tundra 65. Ice-keeping capacity appears to be on par with the Yeti, and to date, it’s been simply as sturdy.
Finest Clothes
Editor’s Selection Chilly Climate Clothes: Ornot Grid Thermal Jersey & Thermal Cargo Bib Tight
I’ve been eyeing Ornot clothes for some time now, and I lastly received to strive some out for myself – I used to be not dissatisfied. Going into the late Fall/early Winter, I’ve been dwelling within the Ornot Grid Thermal Jersey and Thermal Cargo Bib tights. The tights are among the best cold-weather bibs I’ve worn with an expensive match, glorious chamois, and the correct quantity of heat.
It’s the same story with the Grid Thermal Jersey. The superb match and comforting heat make this a great layering piece that I’ve used for simply above freezing to close 60ºF with the appropriate mixture of base layers and outer shells. It’s clear that Ornot is aware of how one can make clothes for various circumstances, however extra spectacular is the match.
Editor’s Selection Heat Climate Clothes: Castelli Espresso Shorts and Bibs
I’ve ridden loads of completely different highway and gravel package over time, and the brand new Castelli Espresso assortment stands out as one among my favorites. In contrast to Castelli package prior to now that I recall, the Espresso assortment isn’t so small that you need to measurement up a number of sizes. The medium match me very nicely with arm and leg size which was almost excellent. The texture of the Doppio material and Progetto X2 Air chamois makes for all-day consolation.
I’ve lengthy prioritized consolation over shoe efficiency, which normally means I’m not using XC race sneakers. The brand new Shimano S-Phyre XC903 sneakers are so snug that you simply don’t should eschew efficiency for shoe consolation. They ought to be additional snug for the $450 price ticket, however if you happen to’re going to go all out in your footwear, these are price a glance.
Parting Phrases
I’ll go away you with a heartfelt because of all of our readers and everybody we’ve had the privilege of working with in 2024 and past. BikeRumor is and all the time shall be a labor of affection for all of us behind the scenes, and the perfect a part of the job is definitely getting out and using with family and friends, previous and new. I want everybody a contented vacation and a contented new yr – catch you all in 2025!
Every of those merchandise was solely chosen purely on their technical deserves, by me personally, and for the explanations described above. Extra nice merchandise handed via my palms in 2024. By no means have been any of my picks, paid for by their producers. Nor was any desire or favor given to the model or advertiser. My alternatives are principally (however not completely) restricted to merchandise I’ve truly frolicked using/testing in particular person. So a model’s willingness to ask Bikerumor to affix a launch occasion, or to offer product samples could make it extra seemingly that we’ll have thought of their merchandise, if solely as a result of we are able to share our actual, firsthand experiences.