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Everyone is happy to receive gifts. However, bikers only really like the useful ones that offer real added value when it comes to biking. In other words, if you want to enhance your riding experience - or that of your loved ones - on a mountain bike, it's best to invest in the main contact points between rider, bike and ground. On the trail, these are usually the deciding factor between fun and frustration. For BIKE test editor and photographer Max Fuchs, a successful ride therefore includes at least one of the following: a comfortable saddle that fits your backside perfectly, a set of good tyres and, for flat pedal fans, a pair of durable and snappy platform pedals.
1st Pirelli Scorpion Race DH M
At the Pirelli Race DH M is the tyre with the best grip in the portfolio. The "Race" in the model name refers to the rubber compound. The SmartEVO DH compound is used on all Pirelli tyres in the downhill and enduro segment. The developers have customised the tread pattern for "mixed terrain" (hence the "M"). During our tests, it quickly became clear that easy rolling behaviour is not one of the tyre's strengths. However, traction and durability are the top priorities. On alpine tours and in the bike park, the Pirelli tyres proved to have great traction in every situation. Thanks to the stable carcass, the Scorpion also defies hard punctures and does not feel spongy even at low air pressures. When cornering, the tyre behaves predictably and doesn't break away arbitrarily. The tyre also received nothing but praise in terms of durability. This makes the tyre the perfect gift for all gravity bikers who appreciate durability and grip. Price: 85 Euro >> available here.
I ride my tyres with as little air as possible. This maximises grip and increases comfort. Unfortunately, many tyres ride spongy, puncture or buckle with so little air. The Pirelli Scorpion, on the other hand, with its stable sidewalls and high puncture protection, seems to be made for me. - Max Fuchs, BIKE test editor and photographer
2. chromag dagga flat pedals
165 euros sounds like a lot of money for a pair of flat pedals. However, if you choose the snappy pedals from Whistler, you will be giving bikers long-term pleasure. The CNC-milled pedal body is made of forged aluminium and has so far withstood even the hardest pedal contact in continuous use. The same applies to the 48 extremely long and height-adjustable steel pins. Every single one still stands like a charm. At 480 grams, the Daggas are not the lightest of flat pedals. However, the robust inner workings with hardened chromoly axles and double-sealed precision industrial bearings promise long-term riding fun. Price: 165 Euro >> available here.
3. fits like a glove: SQlab saddle
A saddle must fit just as well as a pair of shoes. If it doesn't, pressure points or numbness can ruin your leisure time on the bike. To avoid this and maximise riding comfort, SQlab introduced sit bone measurement and the saddle width system back in 2002. If you want to give the gift of stress-free hours on the bike, proceed as follows: simply order the free SQlab measuring kit and give it as a Christmas present, then follow the instructions to determine the sit bone distance of the person receiving the gift and then order any SQlab model in the appropriate width together. Price: 70 - 200 euros >> available here.
Max Fuchs
Editor
