The Radavist

At the end of each year, The Radavist contributor network compiles a list of their favorite products. This year, we’ve upped the ante to include our favorite products, rides, experiences, and more. Read on for John’s list from 2024…

Tariffs have been discussed a lot in the larger macroeconomic ecosystem, but how will they affect the business of cycling and the bike industry at large? In this article, Radavist contributor Kyle Klain dives into the ins and outs of the proposed tariffs and how we can expect them to impact cycling…

Fat bikes are strange birds in the cycling world, with their crazy-wide q-factors and monster clearances, but they are also extremely capable platforms that lend room for a lot of creativity. As an arctic blast sweeps across much of the US, and snow blankets our favorite Southwest trails, we’re taking a look back at our ten favorite fat-bike reviews from the last few years. You’ll see a few of the usual suspects from Surly, but we’re also resurrecting one-off creations from the archives and even a Readers’ Ride. Drop into the comments and let us know how you’re getting ‘Fat’ this winter!  

Burnsey at Oddity Cycles has built some stunning mountain bikes over the years, so when John took note of an Oddity hardtail frame for sale on our Rad Bazaar community marketplace, he had to buy it. It’s big. It’s pink!

Expect a deeper review and full gallery to come once the trails dry out, but for now, enjoy some snow slippin’ and slidin’ riding in the Sangre de Cristo mountains of Santa Fe!

Video: Kyle Klain
Music: Arbor “Return to Forest”

We’ve been working on this refresh for over nine months with two talented designers, Seth and Julian, as well as an equally talented developer, Ian. Together, we’ve fixed many issues with the platform’s backend, updated it to a new infrastructure, and paved the way for multiple website improvements.

While this initial launch might not seem like a big change, allow me to walk you through it.

Photo: Kyle Klain

Our Radar column has shifted back to the left column. This is how the website was pre-2016 refresh. Now, we’ll be slow-dripping products and videos on the left throughout the day. Radar = news blips.

The middle column is our endemic content. This is content we produce ourselves. All Reportage galleries; Shop Visits, Beautiful Bicycles, Events, and Reviews will be in the middle column. The center feed will also contain Radar reviews or reviews that don’t include a gallery.

On the far right is our ad columns; these ads, along with your Group Ride subscription, merch sales, sponsored content (when noted), and affiliate links (we’re working on a page to explain how we use all of these – thanks for your patience!) keep this website and its staff funded. Thanks for your support!

As with every refresh, there will be formatting issues or bugs that pop up from time to time. We have a checklist that’s running but if you spot anything awry, please note it here in the comments!

Happy New Year!

You may have noticed some changes on The Radavist over the past few weeks. Well, it’s because we’ve parted ways with TPC. Read on for TPC’s official press release announcement on the split and what this means for the future of The Radavist with a letter from John Watson below…

Our Radar Roundup compiles products and videos from the ‘net in an easy-to-digest format. Read on below for today’s findings…

In a world where traditional bicycle touring setups are seemingly overtaking strap-on bikepacking bags, micro or mini panniers make a lot of sense. If you have a rear or front rack, why not run a pannier over a lashed, structureless bag? Panniers are great for many reasons, mainly their ease of loading and stability. They don’t flop all over or rub your tires on smaller frames like bikepacking bags tend to, and if they’re packed and mounted right, they stay out of your way during the inevitable hike-a-bike. Plus, depending on how you load your rear rack, you can still use a dropper post. 

John recently took the new Revelate Nano Panniers ($250/pair) out on the Northern New Mexico CDT for four days of navigating deadfall, battling cow shit, and being trounced by Southwestern Monsoons, i.e., the true test of a pannier’s reliability!

Read on for his well-used review!

Our Radar Roundup compiles products and videos from the ‘net in an easy-to-digest format. Read on below for today’s findings…

Each year, John highlights some of his favorite products he used in 2022. These run the gamut from camping gear to apparel, components, accessories, and more. Let’s check out what made his list this year below!