Cyclezine

CYCLEZINE

Cyclezine is a ZINE dedicated to all things two
wheels. From the mountain to the road. Everything
from the mundane maintenance to extreme sports.
You’ll find Everything you need right here. now get
out and ride!

Buying 101

Many people complain about the excessive cost
of cycling these days, and with premium bikes
hovering around $10,000 and more, they have a
point. But remember that while those top-shelf
bikes are incredible examples of engineering
and technology, they are not necessary to
enjoy the sport. In fact, those halo bikes help
the average consumer, because the R&D that
goes into them makes its way down to the
everyday machines. So while a top-of-the-
line bike 25 years ago would have cost
you $2,000—which is barely entry level these
days—the components, suspension, wheels, and complete
package you get todayfar out performs its 1991 counterpart.
At the bare minimum, we recommend
looking at hardtails for no less than $1,500 and
full suspension at $2,000 to $2,500. You can certainly purchase bikes for less, especially if
you get away from the name brands or are willing to take inferior parts. But you’ll probably end up
spending more in the long run because those bikes will break, need replacement parts sooner, or just be
so unpleasant to ride that, in the long term, you’ll upgrade anyway.
The question should also be asked on the other end of the scale: How much is too much? Obviously,
the answer comes down to your economic situation and how much you ride and value cycling. If you
spend hours on your bike, suddenly the refinement and comfort you get for $10,000 might not seem
like so much. Still, if you don’t demand the absolute best, you can find amazing bicycles that are only
incrementally heavier or outperformed by the stratospheric top end for between $4,500 and $6,000.
And yes, you can find closeouts and used inventory online, but you’ll have to either know exactly what
you’re looking for or hassle with possible problems when the bike arrives. Bike-specific e-retailers such
as the Pro’s Closet and Pink Bike help mitigate that risk. (Gulley, Aaron)

BUEPSGTRMADOEUSNTAIN BIKE

SADDLE UP

The wrong saddle
could leave your
butt sore, and it can
hinder blood flow and
compress nerves around
your stuff. It can also force
you to ride in an awkward
position which can lead
to alignment problems,
muscle problems, as well
as impact your power and
overall performance while
on the bike.

GET A GRIP

The grips will also make a huge difference
in your expierence on the bike. The wrong
grips can lead to fatigue, sore shoulders
from attempting to maintain a firm grasp
while gripping the bars, and cause blisters on
your hands.

DROP IT DOWN

Dropper posts are one of the best upgrades you can do to your
mountain bike. They are one of the most significant innovations to mountain biking over
the last 10 years. By enabling you to lower your seat out of the way, you can shift your
weight to the rear. This makes it possible to descend technical terrain confidently. Most
expensive mountain bikes come equipped with a dropper post from the factory. Every
MTB biker will benefit from a dropper post and should upgrade if their bike did not come
with one. (Levitch)

THE BEST OF 2020

#1 The Ibis Ripmo

Again this year, the Ibis Ripmo was able hold itself as the best trail bike
of the group. The new bikes could not knock this one out of the lead. The
Ripmo was impressive with its pedalling position, outstanding suspension
and superior frame. On the downhills, it was the most inspiring bike in the
test. The Ibis just does it all and it never gives you the impression that you
should be on a different bike. If you’re looking an outstanding, multi

purpose mountain bike, look no further. The Ibis Ripmo is ranked as
our best mountain bike bike of 2020. (Enduro MTB)

#2 The Specialized Levo SL Expert

However, there was one bike in the test field that put an even
bigger grin on the faces of our eight-person test crew: the
Specialized Levo SL. While it may be officially an eMTB, its

agile handling belies that fact, differing only slightly from
that of a non-motorised bike and making it feel more

like a trail bike with a motor. The Levo SL is the logical
evolution of non-motorised bikes and takes the riding
experience to the next level! If you buy this bike, you
get the handling of a classic trail bike with the benefits
of an eMTB, minus the disadvantages you would get
with a classic eMTB. We think it represents the next
level of mountain biking and therefore secures this
group test’s coveted Best Buy tip! (Enduro MTB)



References

Gulley, Aaron. “Buying Your First Montain Bike.” Outside
https://www.outsideonline.com/2060936/how-much-should-you-spend-your-first-
mountain-bike
Enduro MTB, The Best Trail Bikes MTB
https://enduro-mtb.com/en/the-best-trail-bike-mtb-review/
Levitch, Colin. “Best Mountain Bike Upgrades.” Bike Perfect
https://www.bikeperfect.com/features/best-mountain-bike-upgrades