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Double Feature Review: Alex and Nikki’s Starling Swoop Steel Full Suspensions

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Double Feature Review: Alex and Nikki’s Starling Swoop Steel Full Suspensions

The Swoop is Starling Cycles‘ versatile single-pivot steel full-suspension bike designed for 27.5 wheels. With its adjustable shock mounts, the Swoop can be set in “Trail” mode with 130 mm of rear travel or “Enduro” with 160 mm. Partners Alex and Nikki each have Swoops in respective enduro and trail modes that they’ve been riding for some time now. Below, they share a review of both iterations of this adaptable built-in-UK platform from one of our favorite bike makers

Melodie Special: Commuter Cycles in Melbourne Helps Melodie Build Her New Bike

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Melodie Special: Commuter Cycles in Melbourne Helps Melodie Build Her New Bike

Andy and Melodie from FYXO run a series of events in Melbourne, Australia, as a husband and wife team. Over the years, Melodie has had many bikes, but it wasn’t until she linked up with the team at Commuter Cycles that she had real input on a build. Read on for a brief history of Melodie’s bikes and a walkthrough of what the team is cooking up for her newest steed in part one of a two-part look

First Ride Review: Tumbleweed Titanium Mini Pannier Rack

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First Ride Review: Tumbleweed Titanium Mini Pannier Rack

Today, Tumbleweed Bicycle Co launched a revamp to its Mini Pannier and T-Racks.  The CroMo racks (T-Rack $140 Mini Pannier $150) are lighter and stronger than the previous versions and have improved features. Today, we’re discussing the all-new Mini Pannier Titanium. Weighing in at only 258 grams (confirmed), Tumbleweed’s Titanium Mini Pannier Rack ($400) is a new option, now available, for those looking for an ultralight rear carrier option. John got one ahead of its release and has a First-Look Review below…

A Review and Some Tinkering with Shimano CUES 1×11 Drivetrain

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A Review and Some Tinkering with Shimano CUES 1×11 Drivetrain

With Shimano releasing CUES to replace Alivio, Acera, and Altus groupsets, is it possible we are getting something better? CUES unites all the parts under its umbrella with the same flat cable pull ratio and chain pitch across 9, 10, and 11-speed drivetrains. Spencer Harding devised his own mix of CUES parts to fit his touring demands at a low price point. Check out what he found and his thoughts on this new parts offering from Shimano below…

Marin Four Corners 2 First Ride Review

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Marin Four Corners 2 First Ride Review

We recently highlighted the return of the Marin Four Corners 1 model, and today the brand released the more premium version, the Four Corners 2. This version features the same updated geo but with a few more modern amenities including: upgraded thru-axles, hydraulic brakes, and a 1x drivetrain while only clocking in at $1999 for a complete bike. Below, Spencer Harding offers a first look at Marin Four Corners 2…

A First Look the New Wizard Works Oglah Hip Pack

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A First Look the New Wizard Works Oglah Hip Pack

Launching today is the smaller sibling of Wizard Works’ Hobgob hip pack, The Oglah. The new pack retains many details of its predecessor but comes in a smaller package for those who don’t need to carry ALL their treasure with them on rides. Spencer got his hands on the new Oglah early and, below, outlines its key features. Read on to check it out!