Geek Warning

Welcome back to the first episode of Geek Warning for 2025. There’s plenty to discuss with the geeks having had a few weeks to dwell on their thoughts.Within, you’ll hear discussion over the industry woes continuing, some well-known brands suffering, and some big related moves. Switching things up, SRAM recently got approval for a patent related to a UDH equivalent of a brake mount. As the geeks discuss, it’s certainly something to watch out for.On Ronan’s mind is whether we’re about to see a new wave of pro-only race bikes, where the viability of selling the things is wholly ignored in favour of just serving sponsored riders the next advantage. The geeks reason how this would sit with increased discussion over reducing peloton speeds.There’s some fresh tech from Garmin, Wolf Tooth, No6 (No.22’s composites brand), and Core. Plus, there’s a naming quibble between Factor and Scarab Cycles.Finally, Brad Copeland jumps on with Dave to answer a few mechanical questions from Escape members. Questions span from removing tight cranks, cleaning off grossly stuck-on bar tape, and whether fancy bottom brackets are worth the cash.This episode is longer than usual, but we hope you enjoy the broad range of topics.

Are modern road bike geometries due for an overhaul? As riders adopt more forward positions and longer stems, handling and weight distribution are facing new challenges.In this episode, Ronan McLaughlin talks to renowned frame builder Rob English about the intricacies of frame design and geometry. They explore topics such as progressive geometries, seat tube angles, bottom bracket drop, and how subtle tweaks can transform bike performance. Rob discusses how he designs bikes to match a rider’s contact points first and foremost, and why sometimes tradition and aesthetics still play a role in bike design.Tune in for a fascinating conversation on how the future of road bike geometry might look, and whether your next bike should have a custom fit that challenges conventional design.

It’s not the usual weekly show format this week, as instead, it’s time for our annual tech awards. Don’t worry, this isn’t just us praising new products, in fact, there’s hardly any of that.These are awards you won’t likely see promoted by the respective brand, as afterall, a poo emoji isn’t likely to help sell product. It’s not all negative though as the full cast of geeks discuss the biggest new tech trends, a few most desired products, and the most anticipated new products for 2025.With absolutely no sensical order to anything, let’s dive into the Geek Warning tech awards of 2024! Thanks for a great year, and you’ll hear from us again when 2025 arrives.Warning, spoilers (aka time stamps) below:1:00: Biggest tech trends of 2024 - All-road bikes, wider gravel tyres, converging categories, and shorter cranks13:00: The unexpected gimmick we don’t hate - Head units with integrated bicycle bells15:40: Silliest new product of 2024 - RAF’s aero backpack18:40: Thought-invoking/Most nuanced/potentially bad award - Zipp XPLR 303 gravel wheels, Highbar helmet system, Visma’s TT Giro Aerohead II helmet29:00: Most desired small product that doesn’t yet exist - A “long press” SRAM Blip shifter and a self-dropping dropper post34:00: Best new aero thing - Time-trial saddles for road bikes37:00: Best new maintenance tool thing - A different way to check chain wear from Abbey Bike Tools and disc brake piston presses41:30: Great new product most likely to bankrupt us - Scott Addict RC, RockShox Flight Attendant suspension, Body Rocket Aero Sensor (guess who picked what?)47:00: Glasshouse of the year - GCN Tech Show #35948:30: Worst trend of 2024 - Half-baked products being released for sale (looking at Wahoo and Coros as examples) and product leaks59:00: It’s about time they fixed it (aka most improved) - Pinarello Dogma F, SRAM Red AXS shifters, and SRAM brakes in general1:08:30: The more of this please bike industry award - Genuinely serviceable and repairable components, better representation in the industry, and less waste in general.1:14:00: Most anticipated new product for 2025 (which hopefully happens) - Shimano GRX Di2 1x, Shimano XTR Di2, SRAM mechanical T-Type shifting, Specialized reVenge, Fox’s answer to Flight Attendant suspension1:21:00: Looking to 2025 and some changes to the Geek Warning team

Just when we started to think the bike industry was moving toward do-it-all road race bikes, we then get word that it’s all about to change once again. Dedicated aero bikes never entirely left, but as you’ll hear from the geeks, they’re very much coming back.This week, Ronan Mc Laughlin, Suvi Loponen, Brad Copeland, and Dave Rome are all on the pod to discuss the latest new bikes and what is driving these trends. You’ll learn about the biggest dos-and-don’ts in using a torque wrench, plus the geeks answer a few “Ask a Wrench” questions from Escape members.Enjoy!Time stamps:1:30 - Spotting bikes in the wild is getting easier5:00 - Colnago’s big investment in the new Y-Series is unapologetically for the pros14:20 - On our minds: Dedicated aero bikes are coming back in a big way and sharing our preferences25:00 - PSA: Proper usage of torque wrenches41:30 - Schwalbe’s new gravel range of tyres44:00 - Trek launches a tyre recycling program in the USA46:15 - Ask a Wrench: Removing stubborn tyres on the road53:00 - Ask a Wrench: Wear on metal steerer tubes59:00 - Ask a Wrench: Tyre inserts for XC racing1:06:00 - Geek Warning awards next week

In this bonus episode of Geek Warning, Ronan McLaughlin sits down with the Colnago design team to dissect the design and development of their latest aero road bike, the Y1-RS.They explore how recent changes to UCI regulations opened up new possibilities in frame design, the challenges of balancing aerodynamics, stiffness, and rider comfort, and why the bike looks the way it does.The discussion covers everything from improving CFD modelling to a Colnago's stiffness tests, and the whys of that off set seat post design and Y shaped handlebar. Long story short… In the absence of being able to ride the bike, we set about finding out if this decisive bike is all go or all show.

Welcome back to Geek Warning!This week Ronan Mc Laughlin, Dave Rome, Suvi Loponen, and Brad Copeland are on the pod to discuss things such as Wahoo’s gigantic new head unit, Campagnolo’s return to the WorldTour, and the worrying trend of many cycling products being disposable.On our minds, and a general theme of the episode, is how to better cover sustainability aspects in the products we review. As you’ll hear, our focus is expecting a longer useable life (whether through serviceability or just straight up durability) from the products we buy.Of course, plenty more is discussed, too. Enjoy!Time stamps:1:00 - The big-sized release of the Wahoo Elemnt Ace, aero meters, and more19:30 - We told you so, Campagnolo returns to the WorldTour27:00 - Sustainability in products is on our minds36:00 - Giant’s expands its own range of suspension components for 202541:00 - Ask a Wrench: Lacking access to service parts52:40 - Ask a Wrench: Pedal extenders and power meter pedals58:45 - Ask a Wrench: Odd movement between a Shimano SPD-SL pedal and cleat1:06:00 - Ask a Wrench: Finding a budget cassette for SRAM Eagle that fits an HG freehub

This week, Escape’s newest tech writer, Alex Hunt becomes the latest voice on the show. Joined by Suvi, Dave, and Brad, the geeks discuss the biggest news in the week of tech, a tech development that could have a game-changing application, and answer several technical questions.There is Scott’s newly renewed focus on weight and what appears to be crazily light tyres coming from Schwalbe. Dave thinks Magura’s recently announced Easy Link hose system could be a glimpse at the future of easing the pain that is integrated cabling.The geeks then discuss a few smaller bits of tech and then get to an important maintenance-related matter that impacts all bikes. Finally, the Ask a Wrench segment answers things related to headsets, bottom bracket/crank installation, and tandems. A special thanks to frame builder Brad Bingham (plus Butch Boucher and Steve Potts!) for helping to answer that tandem question.Time stamps1:00 - An introduction to Escape’s newest tech hire, Alex Hunt4:30 - Scott’s Addict RC proves weight still sells12:00 - The unknowns of Schwalbe’s new Aerothan tyres25:00 - On our minds, the future of quick disconnect hydraulic hoses33:00 - PSA: Draining those bikes40:50 - Enve’s SES Aero Pro one-piece road bar43:00 - Outlier's Unusual Axle-Free Pedal Designs47:00 - The Smart Lever, aims to ease tyre installation52:00 - Ask a Wrench: Steering range limiting headsets58:30 - Ask a Wrench: Tandem-related things, answered by the experts1:06:00 - Ask a Wrench: How freely should a new bottom bracket spin?

It’s a big week in the cycling tech world with Strava dropping a bomb on many connected apps. To learn more about what this upcoming change could mean for you, Ray Maker, aka DCRainMaker, joins the pod.Following that chat, you’ll hear from Suvi, Ronan, Dave, and Brad on various topics, ranging from Rouleur Live, a bunch of new bikes, and answering a couple of member questions. Plus, Dave shares something on his mind that then follows a different path.As usual, we encourage you to visit escapecollective.com to see and learn more about the products and themes discussed.Enjoy!Time stamps:1:00 - DCRainMaker joins to explain Strava’s unexpected API changes21:30 - Rouleur Live highlights25:30 - Reap Type 300 gravel bike and rapid prototyping32:40 - On our mind: products shouldn’t be annoying to use and an unexpected tangent into disc brake caliper piston service and Dave’s tool testing43:30 - Bunch of new bikes, starting with the Mondraker Arid Carbon gravel bike46:30 - Argonaut’s Supernaut48:00 - Colnago has a new steel bike, the Steelnovo52:25 - Pinarello’s entry-level F1 road bike56:00 - DT Swiss partners on a dynamo hub and complete wheels59:50 - Ask a Wrench: Brake feel and air in Shimano brakes1:09:00 - Ask a Expert: Why compliance matters beyond the tyres

Join Ronan, Dave, Suvi, and Brad as they discuss all things related to modern tyres. You’ll hear why Ronan now prefers hard-to-fit tyres, tips to make the installation easier, and our favourite online (free) pressure calculators.Of course, there are a few bits of news to cover, including an interesting new freehub patent from Lauf. And as usual, Brad and Dave answer a few mechanical questions submitted by Escape members.As a reminder, we’re now covering tech news in our Daily News (published on site each day), and that means we’ve also made some changes to the podcast (for the better, we hope). Let us know in the comments how you like (or not) the format changes we’ve been making.Time stamps:1:15 - Corrections Corner related to pulling a chain from wax2:50 - On Ronan’s mind is that tyre fitment woes may not be a wholly bad thing18:00 - Making tyre installation easier21:30 - Ronan finally reveals the tight-fitting tyre24:30 - Pick One: Tyre pressure calculators39:45 - MRP creates a Cage Guard from SRAM Transmission derailleurs41:55 - Thule purchases Quadlock43:00 - Stinner’s introduces a well-priced USA-made stock geometry steel bike44:50 - Lauf’s teases patent for a springy freehub47:00 - Ask a Wrench: chain noises on SRAM Eagle AXS55:20 - Ask a Wrench: installing new brakes and hoses1:00:05 - Ask a Wrench: removing a stuck headset bearing

Welcome back to Geek Warning. It’s a big cast with Suvi Loponen, Ronan Mc Laughlin, Brad Copeland, and Dave Rome chatting through the latest new tech and answering some mechanic-related questions.Ronan is quizzed over the “too long didn’t read” for the newly Spotted Ridley Noah Fast, plus what Pirelli is up to with its FSC-certified tyres.SRAM chains have been back in the media this week after some comments from cyclocross legend Sven Nys, the geeks speculate what could be happening here and why it’s not a widespread issue. Of course there's more tech talk including a PSA and answering a few Ask a Wrench questions from Escape Collective members.Finally the episode wraps with a bunch of new product releases worth sharing.Enjoy!Time stamps:2:00 - Ridley’s new and unreleased Noah Fast7:15 - Pirelli and rubber trees12:20 - Coros’ new Pace Pro sports watch18:30 - Hammerhead Karoo updates battery life through firmware20:50 - Sven Nys complains of SRAM chains27:10 - PSA to not ignore creaks36:00 - Ask a Wrench: When pull your waxed chain41:20 - Ask a Wrench: Feeling a brake track45:15 - Ask a Wrench: Putting a longer fork on an XC bike49:50 - OneUp’s new dropbar dropper lever52:20 - Stan’s No Tubes and Daysaver collab55:20 - Canecreek’s GXC stem fills a gap57:40 - Aerocoach Blitz track handlebars1:00-40 - Lapierre’s new Pulsium endurance road bike1:02:15 - Yamaha stops e-bike sales in the USA1:03:30 - The Pro’s Closet returns

It may be the off-season in the racing world, but the land of bike tech never sleeps. In this episode of Geek Warning, you’ll hear Suvi, Dave, and Brad discuss an intriguing shifter-related patent from Campagnolo that perhaps can’t come soon enough.The geeks then discuss what they each seek in a drop handlebar and what their favourites are. Within this extended segment, you’ll hear about one-piece cockpits, more traditional two-piece setups, and picks for road and gravel purposes.We’ve also got some great Ask a Wrench questions that spark some deeper conversation.Enjoy!Time stamps:1:45 - Campagnolo’s recent shifter patent11:00 - Discussing drop handlebars and picking one (well, maybe two)33:15 - Ask a Wrench: How to become a bike mechanic48:00 - Ask a Wrench: SRAM Flat Top and T-type chain compatibility53:22 - Ask a Wrench: Raising awareness for the actual cost of bike ownership and where the blame sits1:06:45 - Tech bites: an increasing number of lighter e-MTBs is a trend that won’t slow

Fork me, it's the ring of death

Things are a little flipped upside down in this week’s Geek Warning. Suvi, Dave, and Brad open the show by discussing their most meaningful bikes. The geeks then turn to pick a favourite side-access bottle cage for when frame space is limited. Of course there’s a handful of Ask a Wrench questions, answered. And the show wraps with a round-up of new tech to drop over the past week.A small note: Suvi experienced some audio issues toward the end of the episode, and so, the power of editing has her disappear from the conversation without much warning.Time stamps:5:00 - The bikes we’ll never let go and those we wish we hadn’t20:30 - Picking one side-access bottle cage32:00 - Ask a wrench: resin versus metallic (sintered) disc brake pads40:00 - Ask a wrench: the importance of matching rear shock hardware sizes45:30 - Ask a wrench: Chainline woes in going old 2x to new 1x gravel51:30 - Tech news on the daily53:20 - Dare’s Velocity Ace goes full aero55:30 - Enduro also now offering polymer-infill frame pivot bearings1:00:00 - Enve’s new M-series wheels1:01:15 - Daysaver’s new mini pumps1:02:30 - Body Rocket on-bike aero sensor arrives

Welcome to another members-only (at least the full episode) edition of the Geek Warning podcast. This episode came together after the boutique brand Open Cycle [teased a long-awaited update to its Up gravel bike. For those who aren’t familiar with the Open Up, it was a bike to break new ground for the emerging sporty gravel space through its dual-wheel size compatibility with 700c and 650B. Meanwhile, it achieved the clearance between the rear tyre and chainring by introducing dropped chainstays to the market. Open Cycle was founded by Andy Kessler (former CEO of BMC) and Gerard Vroomen (co-founder of Cervelo, and until recently, also the co-owner of 3T). Between Open and 3T, Vroomen has pushed many boundaries in the gravel space in recent years. In this episode, Vroomen covers the details of the new Up and Upper bike range and the design decisions made. We touch on Open’s move to on-shoring production. I pry unsuccessfully into teased compatibility with unreleased Shimano. And we chat about the move to threaded bottom brackets. Plus, members of Escape will hear me eat my own hat as despite designing a 700c-only bike, Vroomen strongly defends the smaller 650B-wheelsize and laments (and explains) its loss.It’s a varied chat with a whole lot of interesting experience in designing and engineering bikes shared. Enjoy!A portion of this podcast is available to all. The full length, including the conversation on 650B vs 700C is available exclusively to members of Escape Collective. To add member-only podcasts, including this one, to your podcast player of choice, click here.

This episode introduces a new voice, Escape’s new tech writer, Suvi Loponen. Join Suvi, Brad, and Dave as they discuss the latest tech and a couple of new bikes seen at Gravel Worlds.Picking the Mount Rushmore of bicycle cranksets is sure to cause debate. Within you’ll hear Brad and Dave share some of the cranks that have left an impression on them. We’d love to hear your picks, so jump into the comments.Ask a Wrench continues, this time with Brad and Dave offering answers to three member-submitted questions. Within Ask a Wrench Brad answers a question about the basics of suspension setup. There was a recommended video mentioned, here’s a link to that. Enjoy!Time stamps:5:45 - Tech themes at Gravel Worlds10:50 - Inflation on the fly with Gravaa19:30 - Lapierre’s first carbon gravel bike22:40 - Superior getting into gravel27:30 - The Mount Rushmore of cranksets40:15 - Ask a Wrench: A basic guide to setting up mountain bike suspension50:00 - Ask a Wrench: increasing the lifespan of road tyres55:00 - Ask a Wrench: geometry changes in putting road tyres on a gravel bike1:01:20 - New Rolf Prima wheels go to 16 spokes for disc brakes1:05:05 - Hunt’s new 40 Limitless gravel race wheel1:08:00 - Sidi’s new Tenacia is for toe clips and L’Eroici

In this episode of Performance Process, Ronan and Caley welcome Dylan Johnson, a lifetime Gran Prix athlete, coach, and data-driven performance-optimising YouTuber, to discuss the ins and outs of off-road racing.Dylan shares his insights on the category he arguably reignited: drop bar mountain bikes, exploring the whys and the pros and cons of ditching flat bars. He also delves into tyre selection, revealing his two tyres for gravel racing following his own rolling resistance and aero testing.Speaking of aero testing, Dylan discusses the importance of aerodynamics in gravel racing, and his advice on where to optimise first. Finally, as gravel racing continues to evolve, the group discuss if current trends are truly optimal or stop gaps along the way with predictions on the future of bike design.Whether you’re a racer or an enthusiast, this episode is packed with practical insights and inspiration for the gravel and off-road rider.

Plus why modern bikes require more frequent headset inspections, Ridley’s new gravel bike, and a tonne more.It’s a big episode this week as the geeks, Dave and Brad, cover a whole lot of ground including the latest new products, a rant on silly-priced items, a little on chain wear, why headset inspections matter more than ever, and there’s an in-depth chat with a true geek of the wheel building world.That opening chat related to chains comes off a recent Threaded article about chain wear.Meanwhile, Dave jumps on a call with wheel build extraordinaire Tristan Thomas of WheelWorks to answer a multi-part Ask a Wrench question. It quickly gets detailed and geeky, but we figured that’s exactly what you’re here for.As a reminder, the Geek Warning podcast is only made possible through members of Escape Collective. We intentionally don’t have any advertising, affiliate links, or sponsored content, so if you love this podcast, please support it (and then enjoy all the member-exclusive content you've been missing out on).Time stamps:5:30 - Chain wear, for those that missed it13:00 - Ridley’s new Astr gravel race bike and thoughts on BB8624:00 - The Pro’s Closet is shutting shop31:40 - On Dave’s mind are silly-priced “limited” pulley wheels44:00 - a PSA on the increased importance of headset inspection58:10 - Ask a Wrench, all about wheel building with Tristan of WheelWorks1:25:00 - Bosch’s new Performance Line CX e-bike system1:26:50 - PNW releases silver anodised dropper posts

Plus why tyres are likely to keep getting wider.With the road season soon to come to a close, the events in the tech world are unsurprisingly more focused on the dirt. In this week’s episode of Geek Warning, you’ll hear Brad and Dave cover the latest in tech across road, gravel, and mountain bike.Amongst a number of new things, the geeks discuss a future of electronic suspension and what that could spell for the gravel world. Why tyres are likely to continue trending wider in cross-country racing (among other disciplines). And with Specialized announcing free full suspension frame bearings for the lifetime of its mountain bikes, we discuss new ways to sell bikes in tough times. All this and plenty more!Time stamps:1:25 - BMC’s new Teammachine R Masterpiece7:30 - Sad passing of Bob Parlee8:50 - Bontrager goes up to 29 mm rim width for gravel12:40 - Lauf’s first mountain bike raises questions on the future of big tyres24:40 - BH has an interesting new short-travel XC bike29:25 - Fox joins the wirelessly-controlled electronic suspension game36:22 - New ways to sell the bikes that aren’t selling?47:20 - Ask a Wrench: career mechanic woes55:25 - Ask a Wrench: storing Di2 for winter59:10 - Ask a Wrench: keeping alloy rims black

It’s new bike day for Lauf Cycles as the Icelandic bike company launches its first mountain bike. In this bonus episode of Geek Warning, you’ll hear from two key people of the company about the design decisions behind the bike, how Lauf seemingly keeps finding itself ahead of emerging trends, and what allows Lauf to hit some impressive price points. To read and see more of this bike, head to Escape Collective.Non-members of Escape Collective can still tune in and listen to approximately half of this episode. Meanwhile, the full version is found in our exclusive member feed, something you’ll gain access to through signing up.

This week’s episode is shorter than usual, but no less geeky. Join Dave and Brad as they discuss some of the bigger tech news.Within, the geeks discuss Mavic’s new US$999 Cosmic S 42 Disc carbon road wheels. Pivot has wholly overhauled its Vault gravel bike. Wolf Tooth has a new free app for dialling in off-road tyre pressures. The iconic folding bike company Brompton goes gravel. And of course, there’s a quick discussion of that new RAF1 backpack thing.You’ll also hear Dave and Brad share some tips and their favourite bike cases for when flying with a bike. And then, the episode wraps with two member-submitted Ask a Wrench questions.Time stamps:4:24 - Mavic’s US$999 carbon road wheels8:25 - Pivot’s new Vault gravel bike12:30 - Wolf Tooth introduces a free tyre pressure app for off-road purposes14:45 - Brompton goes gravel17:15 - An aero backpack to burn with fire20:00 - On our mind and picking one: travel cases29:50 - Ask a Wrench: Why isn’t 650B more popular in gravel?34:50 - Ask a Wrench: Storing tubeless tyres through the winter

In this week's Geek Warning, Brad, Ronan, and Caley delve into a project that wants to answer all our compatibility questions, forever. Plus, a bit of Campagnolo news, some thoughts on the unreleased bike Lachlan Morton is riding around Australia, and Brad's suggestions for Caley's brake and suspension fork woes.

Tyres tyres tyres! Aero tyres, big fat gravel tyres - in this episode has a lot of tyres in it.We have a bit of a shakeup this week. Dave Rome is on a well-deserved holiday so Caley and Ronan are joined by pro mechanic Zach Edwards to talk through Parcours' latest tyre testing and what the data can teach us about optimising for various road courses. Then we discuss the trend toward 50mm+ rubber at the pointy end of gravel races, some updates from Zwift, and Caley's new cross-country bike.

In a member's only Geek Warning episode, Dave Rome and framebuilding expert Rob English discuss some of the highlights from the 2024 Made handmade bike show. We have made a shortened version of the ep available here on the free Geek Warning feed, but to get the full show, you'll need to head on over to escapecollective.com/member to sign up!

It’s the end of the week and that means the geeks are back with another geeky episode. Join Dave and Brad as they discuss the latest in the world of cycling tech.The first topic of discussion is Hunt’s new 40 Gravel Race wheels with H_Cyclo, a new technology that aims to bring recyclability into a thermoset carbon fibre product. The resin-based technology appears to come from Taiwanese company Swancore (unconfirmed by Hunt), and dare we say, this won’t be the last time the geeks discuss it (perhaps expect a full feature on the tech in the future, too).Brad and Dave then cover their favourite Presta-type pump heads and offer a PSA on basic drivetrain maintenance. Finally, a few members pose mechanical questions to the geeks in the Ask a Wrench segment.Plus, keep an ear out for a bonus episode of the Geek Warning podcast with framebuilder Rob English and chatting all things related to the recent MADE Bike show.Time stamps:2:20 - Hunt’s H-Cyclo tech allows recycling of thermoset carbon10:30 - Wolf Tooth’s new Internal-External headset16:55 - Picking One Presta pump head26:30 - a PSA applicable to all forms of chain lube34:20 - Ask a Wrench (AaW) about bigger chainrings on SRAM Force AXS41:50 - Smelly chains (AaW)44:15 - Handlebar width for women’s XC racing (AaW)53:20 - Getting more range from SRAM XPLR AXS 12-speed (AaW)

It’s never a boring week when you’re a bike geek. Join Brad and Dave as they discuss the latest from the last week of tech, including interesting developments in wax options from Silca, why gravel tyre trends have caught the bike industry by surprise, plus the latest from Fox and Ratio Technology.The geeks also share thoughts on a few round seatposts to consider and answer three member-submitted Ask a Wrench questions.Time stamps:3:10 - Save some fresh tech for the TDF Femmes6:35 - Silca’s new Speed and Endurance chips11:25 - Trek’s CheckMate and rapidly changing tyre width trends23:45 - Picking one seatpost (well, at least the things to consider)38:55 - Ask a Wrench: mixing and matching SRAM AXS and Shimano 1245:05 - Ask a Wrench: pedals and install torque51:10 - Ask a Wrench: servicing Shimano pedals59:00 - Fox’s Neo Wireless dropper post1:08:20 - Ratio Technology turns AXS Road into XPLR

What do dropbars on mountain bikes, our love for electric tyre inflators, and a random chirping noise have in common? Very little, but it’s all covered in this week’s jam-packed Geek Warning!Join Dave and Brad as they discuss emerging trends in gravel bikes, which are increasingly getting rowdy. The recent Leadville race and the new BMC URS both offer discussion points for this.This week, Dave is thinking about battery-powered tyre inflators, which will be covered in this week’s edition of Threaded. The geeks then discuss their favourite bartapes and why they like them.You’ll then hear three member questions answered in the recently returned “Ask a Wrench” segment. From chain lube for Cross to solving a mystery chirping noise, and the geek’s most embarrassing/costly mistakes.Finally the episode wraps up with a few new tech bites from around the cycling industry. There are new shorter-length ShockStop suspension stems from Redshift. Forge+Bond brings its theromplastic technology to a handlebar. There are more bad e-bikes from the automotive world. And a heads-up of two custom bike shows coming this month.Enjoy!Time stamps:4:45 - Leadville showing bike trends or just one-offs for a specific event?15:48 - BMC has updated its URS gravel bike23:05 - Electric tyre inflators are all the buzz28:50 - Pick One: Bartapes34:25 - Ask a Wrench1:02:40 - Ford's new bad e-bikes1:06:05 - Forge+Bond has a handlebar1:09:05 - Redshift adds 55 and 70 mm versions of the ShockStop stem1:12:20 - MADE is nearly here

It’s time for a bonus episode of Geek Warning. Usually, we keep such bonus episodes for members of Escape Collective, but it simply wouldn’t be right to limit this one. It’s a conversation about what is arguably the most impactful bicycle-centric not-for-profit in the world. Indeed, we’re talking about World Bicycle Relief, aka, WBR.In this episode, Escape’s Dave Rome chats with Dave Neiswander, the CEO of World Bicycle Relief and the organisation’s Lead Product Designer, Andy Samways.Within you’ll learn about World Bicycle Relief and how the humble bicycle is used to change lives and benefit communities. Of course we also chat about the interesting tech behind the new Buffalo Utility S2 bike.You can learn more and donate at worldbicyclerelief.org.

It’s 2024 and yet we have a new high-end rim brake Colnago to discuss. We certainly didn’t expect to write that sentence.Also in this week’s Geek Warning, you’ll hear Brad, Ronan, and Dave discuss some broad aero themes seen at the Olympic Games. There’s some chit-chat about Cervelo’s minor update to the Caledonia 5. And Ronan shares a Garmin-related PSA that he had to learn the hard way.Perhaps the biggest news is that Ask a Wrench has returned. Members of Escape Collective can now submit a recorded question for use in future episodes (please introduce yourself at the beginning).The episode wraps with some recall-related news out of the USA. And lastly, Dave and Brad discuss Madrone Cycles, a small company focussed on bringing beaten SRAM Eagle derailleurs back to life.Time stamps:1:00 - Tech at the Olympic Track17:40 - Colnago’s novel new braking system26:50 - Cervelo updates the Caledonia 5, but only a little33:30 - Ronan’s PSA for Garmin users36:15 - Ask a Wrench returns!57:00 - CPSC rules Amazon is liable for recalls59:10 - Brompton recalls 2024 T-line bikes1:00:00 - Madrone repairs SRAM Eagle derailleurs

With no time for chit-chat, the geeks are excited about the first few bits of tech seen at the Olympics, chatting a few notable elements from the road Time Trials, and then chatting why some of the tech seen in the mountain bike races are likely relevant to all.Then you’ll hear a summary of the latest gravel-going groupset from SRAM, and the matching ultra-wide wheels from Zipp. For more on these products, certainly check out Dave’s extensive write-ups on the SRAM Red XPLR AXS groupset and Zipp 303 XPLR wheels. If you’ve got a modern bike with thru-axles then you may be intrigued to hear that your thru-axles may in fact wear out. In this week’s PSA you’ll hear how to make those axles happy and why you shouldn’t ignore early signs of issue.Finally, there’s a couple of bits of tech news to wrap things up. Enjoy!Time stamps:1:30 - Straight into Olympic tech, so far21:45 - New Red XPLR AXS, 13-speed on a 12-speed chain27:30 - Zipp has a matching suite of XPLR products45:50 - a PSA that your thru-axles may experience wear56:30 - Ritchey’s comfortable-looking Montebello57:40 - Shimano is helping to fund some trails

Welcome back for another episode of Geek Warning. This week, Dave Rome and Brad Copeland discuss the latest topics in the bike world. They ponder whether all-road and gravel bikes are now the same thing. And the conversation does cover Dave’s poor financial control.Three new bikes are discussed. There’s Canyon’s new Aeroad road race bike, a bike that Ronan Mc Laughlin wrote about last week. Meanwhile, USA-based Otso Cycles and State Bicycle Co have both released new all-road/gravel bikes with prices starting from just US$2,500 – the Otso Cycles Warakin and State Titanium All-Road (yes, a budget titanium bike).On Dave’s mind is the gravel bike he couldn’t bring himself to return, a Santa Cruz Stigmata that he just wrapped up reviewing.You'll also hear a PSA about servicing freehub bodies, and the episode wraps up (in under an hour!) with a quick bite of news from Kask.Timestamps:4:35 - Canyon’s new Aeroad goes all-in on T2516:30 - Defining All Road21:00 - Otso Cycles’ new Warakin Steel27:55 - State launches a budget titanium bike33:20 - Reviewing bikes can get expensive40:00 - PSA on freehub body servicing50:35 - Kask unveils the Nirvana aero road helmet

For the first time in a long time the bike industry is taking a breather on new product drops. With that, Dave Rome and Brad Copeland catch up to discuss what’s on their minds.There’s a nostalgic chat about Brad and Dave’s dream bikes as awkward teens. Dave raises his frustrations around integrated shifter and brake clamp systems on mountain bikes. And the geeks discuss what spares they carry on local rides.There’s a small amount of worthy tech news at the end, including factory-waxed chains from KMC and Wippermann, plus a chat about Wolf Tooth’s updated dropper and how it compares.Timestamps:2:50 - Corrections Corner related to OneUp hubs5:50 - Dream bikes in our teens, plus a tangent21:00 - Why can’t MatchMaker make our match?34:05 - Pick One Returns! Our spares50:00 - A quick repeat of a PSA52:10 - Waxed chains straight from the factory are here!59:10 - Wolf Tooth’s Revolve Rev2 shows how Right to Repair should be1:02:50 - Wolf Tooth’s news presents another Pick One segment

Eurobike is now in the rearview mirror and the buzz of the Tour continues to grow. In this week’s Geek Warning episode you’ll hear (without sound issues, horray!) a wrap-up from Eurobike, learn about Schwalbe’s intriguing new Clik Valve, Canyon’s Tempr shoes bring them into a new product category, and some bold claims from Parcours for the gravel race scene.Brad and Dave also discuss the latest Trek Top Fuel mountain bike and Dangerholm’s incredible 5.89 kg (12.99 lb) hardtail. Plus you’ll hear about the latest from Feedback Sports, DT Swiss, Manitou, and Shimano.The big conversation for this episode is all about the generally poor quality control of flat-mount brake mounts, and it warrants a language warning as Dave feels his anger grow. Seriously, a message to bike manufacturers and brands, it shouldn’t be up to the local shop to fix this stuff!Escape Collective's podcasts are made possible by our members. Head on over to escapecollective.com/join to support this show and everything else on our podcast network.Time stamps:1:48 - Parcours’ FKT aero gravel race wheelset10:00 - Canyon enters the high-end shoe market18:40 - Ronan’s experience at Eurobike25:55 - Schwalbe Clik Valve - a new valve we may just like30:15 - Trek’s fourth-gen Top Fuel37:30 - Dangerholm’s latest ‘lightest hardtail’43:05 - Dave gets a little sweary: flat mount should be flat!55:10 - Feedback Sports enters the electric stand market1:00:20 - It’s DT Swiss’ 30th anniversary1:02:00 - Manitou releases its R8 cross-country fork1:04:45 - Shimano’s new second-tier S-Phyre RC7 shoes, plus the case for spending more on certain things

It’s the week of all weeks for cycling tech. The Tour de France has kicked off, the world’s largest cycling tradeshow – Eurobike – is on, and we’ve seen many smaller handmade bike shows, too. With that, Dave Rome, Brad Copeland, and Ronan Mc Laughlin have plenty of things to geek out over.The geeks discuss the new Classified and TRP drivetrain collab, plus new budget groupset options from Microshift and SRAM. Ronan gives a brief overview of Continental’s new aero tyres, while there’s also chat of a new fancy chain waxing tool seen at the Tour.There’s a chat about how to keep a check on your brake tracks. And then to finish things off, you’ll hear Brad and Dave discuss new hubs from OneUp, a new gravel bike from Giant, some question marks about Ohlins suspension, and the entrance of drone-experts DJI into bicycles (wait, what?). And lastly, the new Buffalo bike for World Bicycle Relief is discussed.And once again, we apologise for the sound quality on this one. This time, it was Brad with the technical issues, sounding a little distant on the backup audio we had to use.Time stamps:3:50 - Classified and TRP collaborate on a groupset14:45 - The Aero111 tyre from DT Swiss, Swiss Side, and Continental21:40 - SRAM’s new S-1000 Transmission27:05 - Microshift Sword Black, even cheaper and 9-speed31:35 - Cyclowax teases on-bike chain waxing38:25 - Handmade bikes everywhere!43:40 - PSA: saying it once more, measure those brake tracks!54:45 - A workforce reduction at Ohlins57:40 - Oneup enters the hub market1:01:58 - KOM’s Xeno hub has us intrigued1:05:00 - We drone on about DJI’s entrance into e-bikes1:08:20 - Giant’s new Revolt Advanced gravel bike1:11:15 - The new Buffalo bike

If you managed to take a look at some of the bikes from Spoken, you’ll quickly realise there’s a whole lot of tech to talk about. For this member’s special bonus episode of Geek Warning, Dave Rome sits down with a number of exhibitors while at the show. In this episode you’ll hear interviews with builders such as Feather Cycles and Woods Bicycle Co. Dave chats with Silca’s owner Josh Poertner about the future of chain waxing and 3D titanium printing. You’ll learn about the latest from Melbourne-based Curve Cycling and Project Flock. Plus, discussion on bike fit with RiderFit.CC and the future of the Spoken show with event co-founder Nathan Lorkin.Only members of Escape Collective can listen to the full version of this episode, however, this shorter version is available here for free (and hopefully to once again, encourage you to join).Also, we'd love to get your feedback on this show and our other shows. Share your thoughts at escapecollective.com/podcast-survey.Time stamps:1:00 - Feather Cycles and the launch of WKNDR9:40 - Woods Bicycle Co on hidden cable routing19:30 - Josh Poertner on 3D titanium printing and the next-generation of chain waxing40:00 - Project Flock44:30 - Curve Cycling and going higher-end49:00 - Stewart Morton of RiderFit56:30 - The future of Spoken?

In this week’s episode of Geek Warning, Escape Collective's tech editors Dave Rome and Ronan McLaughlin get lost in thought and go well over the magic hour. Hit play to hear whether Trek’s move to turn two race bikes into one is a decision based on performance or business, whether lateral chain wear is a measurement we should be considering, what we look for in bib shorts, and what possessed Ronan to do a nearly 20-hour-long ride.Of course, the geeks also talk about other new products just released, including Wolf Tooth’s entry into mini pumps, Wahoo’s new heart rate strap, and Willier’s latest road bike. Enjoy!Also, we'd love to get your feedback on this show and our other shows. Share your thoughts at escapecollective.com/podcast-survey.Time stamps3:00 - Trek goes all-in on the new Madone21:30 - Wilier’s new climbing bike31:30 - Abbey Bike Tools introduces a less thought way of measuring chain wear44:20 - RIP Jurgen Falke45:10 - Ronan’s big ride is on Dave’s mind55:30 - Picking one bib-short1:02:30 - Wahoo’s new heart rate strap, will this one last?1:09:40 - Wolf Tooth gets into mini pumps with internal storage1:13:30 - Bossi’s new Grit titanium gravel bike1:14:20 - MADE Australia is this weekend, while Ronan is heading to the Tour and Eurobike

It’s time to geek out. This week Brad Copeland, Ronan McLaughlin, and Dave Rome are on the pod to talk all the major news in the world of tech and what’s on their minds.There’s a new road bike from Pinarello, and a new head unit that promises to be self-sustaining, and a more affordable full suspension race bike from Specialized. Plus Dave and Brad share some things on their minds.Forward warning and an apology as the sound quality on this one doesn’t meet our usual standard. Dave was already under the weather, and if that weren’t enough, he then had mic issues. The information is there, it’s just Dave sounds like virus-riddled bot!Escape Collective's podcasts are made possible by our members. Head on over to escapecollective.com/member to support this show and everything else on our podcast network.Also, we'd love to get your feedback on this show and our other shows. Share your thoughts at escapecollective.com/podcast-survey.Time stamps:2:24 - New Pinarello Dogma11:50 - Coros’ entry into head units22:05 - More new alloy from Specialized, this time the Chisel FS28:33 - Spoken has been run, a bonus episode is incoming29:25 - Spare seatpost length is on Brad’s mind33:30 - Dave explains why he’s a reformed chain waxer43:50 - Quick tech bite in the form of Giant’s new kids bike50:05 - Brad shares a tip for getting tips

The tech never stops. This episode Brad Copeland and Dave Rome discuss a handful of new dropbar bikes, a recall, common mistakes with fitting chains, and their favourite… grease. Oh yes, it’s Geek Warning!Those new bikes include the fascinatingly simple Specialized Crux DSW, a refreshed Bianchi Arcadex gravel bike, and OBED’s entry into the endurance road space. Meanwhile the geeks discuss Ellsworth’s recent return and entry into gravel.Following a repair during the week, on Brad’s mind is how chain direction matters and it spurs a larger conversation about other common chain-related mistakes. Then Dave asks the hard hitting questions, asking Brad to pick a single grease of choice.The episode wraps with a recall from Kuat and a tease for the upcoming Spoken Show (formerly Handmade Bicycle Show Australia) in Melbourne, Australia.Escape Collective's podcasts are made possible by our members. Head on over to escapecollective.com/member to support this show and everything else on our podcast network.Also, we'd love to get your feedback on this show and our other shows. Share your thoughts at escapecollective.com/podcast-survey.Time stamps:5:25 - Specialized’s new alloy bike and why simple wins20:00 - Bianchi new Arcadex and why UDH is now the common feature in gravel26:48 - Ellsworth returns to the dropbar world33:00 - OBED RVR is another option with a taller stack height39:25 - Chain direction is on Brad’s mind46:40 - Pick one: Grease. Yes, grease.53:50 - Roval releases a Team version of its Rapide CLX II road wheels58:32 - Kuat has a recall that impacts 86,000 racks1:01:30 - High-fives await in Melbourne

A €9,000 frame, a €27k build, and €22K spent on developing the bottle alone… Wilier has a new TT bike.Escape Collective had exclusive access to the development of this new bike in a seemingly impossible time frame. Leading the design project was Marco Genovese, Head of Design at Wilier Triestina. With 14 years of experience in developing over 100 frames, Genovese knows a thing or two about carbon frame design. Escape Tech Editor Ronan Mc Laughlin sat down with Genovese to deep dive on all things frame design to discuss everything from brainwaves in the shower to initial concepts and from modern design tools to made-up UCI rules.The Supersonica may be a time trial bike, but this bonus episode of the Geek Warning podcast is for anyone who has ever wondered how bikes are designed.Escape Collective's podcasts are made possible by our members. Head on over to escapecollective.com/member to support this show and everything else on our podcast network.Also, we'd love to get your feedback on this show and our other shows. Share your thoughts at escapecollective.com/podcast-survey.

A lot has happened in the world of cycling tech over the past week. The Dauphine has teased new bikes getting dialled in for the Tour. While Unbound has shown that gravel tech is still progressing at a rapid rate, including wider tyres, new 1x drivetrains, and aero-shaped suspension.There’s a full cast of geeks to chat about it, with Ronan Mc Laughlin tuning in to discuss what’s new in the road space, while Dave Rome and new-old voice Brad Copeland discuss the rest.Of course the geeks discuss something on their mind which should prove helpful for anyone with a stuck crank. The episode closes with tech news including Fulcrum’s new Sharq wheels, a new gravel race handlebar from Pro, a well-priced mountain bike shifter upgrade from SRAM, and more.Escape Collective's podcasts are made possible by our members. Head on over to escapecollective.com/member to support this show and everything else on our podcast network.Also, we'd love to get your feedback on this show and our other shows. Share your thoughts at escapecollective.com/podcast-survey.Time stamps:4:26 - A swarm of new road bikes are coming from Canyon, Willier, Pinarello, and more24:00 - A corrections corner24:51 - New tech seen at Unbound Gravel, including things from SRAM, wider wheels, aero Fox suspension, and new bikes42:20 - On our mind: stubborn crank bolts and methods for overcoming them55:00 – Bianchi’s ribbon-cutting ceremony has us giggling58:20 – Fulcrum’s new wavy-shaped Sharq wheels1:02:40 – Pro Bike Gear’s new Discover Aero Carbon handlebar for better GRX integration1:08:10 - SRAM’s new Pod Rocker upgrade for AXS

It's time for another bonus episode of Geek Warning.Typically, we keep these bonus episodes for subscribers and members of Escape Collective, however, this one is being left open to all as a teaser for the type of stuff you’re missing by not being a member. If you like this and want more, sign up here. This episode is about gravel tire selection and trends in the thinking that bigger is better. It all came about through an Instagram post by former WorldTour pro-turned Gravel Pro Alex Howes, who had shared just how much he had been obsessing over tire selection for the 2024 edition of Unbound Gravel. And what makes this conversation all the more interesting is that Howes isn’t sponsored by a single tire brand, but rather an online retailer that sells all the brands - biketiresdirect.Dave Rome and Howes cover a lot of ground in this one, including chatting slicks versus treads, picking the biggest volume possible, inserts or not, what to carry on a self-supported race like Unbound, and why white bar tape.If you don’t care about why, where, when, or how, and assuming the weather holds, Howes plans to race on Vittoria Terreno Zero tyres, in a 50 mm width up front and a 47 mm rear with inserts. He expects to start the day with approximately 19 psi in the front, and 24 psi rear. Still, if you find these details interesting, you’ll surely appreciate the conversation. Enjoy!

Welcome back to Geek Warning, a podcast by the Escape Collective, that covers everything to know in the world of bicycle tech. James Huang said farewell in our past episode, and with that, Dave is joined by a new voice that knows a thing or two about bicycle-related things – Brad Copeland.With a mountain bike World Cup race at Nové Město freshly finished, Dave and Brad discuss things in use by the winners, technical problems by a race favourite, and trends in tyre tech.The geeks share their favourite tubeless tyre sealants and a PSA applicable to all.It’s a relatively light week in terms of tech news, still, Brad and Dave share their thoughts on DT Swiss’ new premium gravel wheelsets, new well-priced carbon wheels from Easton, and a new gravel race jersey with its own sweat-patch.Time stamps:4:10 – Pre-Olympic tech spotted in use by Pauline Ferrand-Prevot and Tom Pidcock10:55 – Speculating about Victor Koretzky’s tech woes15:20 – Are wider tyres always better for gravel and MTB? What does that mean for the future of tyre inserts?37:25 - Pick one: tubeless tyre sealant50:05 - PSA: test your spares!57:10 - New DT Swiss GRC 1100 and 1400 Dicut gravel wheels1:08:00 - Easton’s new EC90 ALX gravel and all-road hoops1:10:40 - Castelli adds a hydration bladder to an aero jersey, so gravel

Ever feel like you’d like a lighter bike? Now imagine what your current bike would feel like if it was half of your body weight. For all too many kids who are learning to ride bikes, that’s exactly what it feels like to them. Premium kids’ bikes are a relatively new category, but also one that’s rapidly growing with more brands, models, sizes, and genres than ever before. Are they expensive? As compared to what you’d find in a big-box store, sure. But when you really think about what your kid might get out of a nicer bike, what actually goes into them, and even what you might get out of them once they’ve outgrown them, the numbers become easier to justify.Fair warning: The full episode is only available to Escape Collective members. Head on over to escapecollective.com/member to support this show and everything else on our podcast network.

It’s just a regular week in May, but you can bet the bike industry is its usual buzz of activity. James Huang and Dave Rome offer some strong thoughts related to Shimano’s latest release of GRX Di2. There’s chat about Felt clawing its way back into the spotlight. Of course the geeks can't ignore the return of Kona Bikes. And there are rumblings that the old Interbike tradeshow may be coming back, too.We’ve got custom bikes on our minds. We fail at picking one saddle. And there’s a PSA for all. The episode wraps with a round-up of new wheel-related things from Reynolds, Zipp, Roval, Chris King, and Hunt.And then James shares his own news. Indeed this is the last episode you’ll hear James’ voice as he hangs up his digital gauge.Time stamps:2:00 - Shimano GRX 12-speed Di216:40 - Felt’s new VR endurance road bike20:25 - Kona is back!25:45 - Is the Interbike tradeshow coming back?30:40 - On our mind: would we buy our own fully custom bike?43:25 - Pick one: saddles56:45 - You get accustomed to things being crummy1:01:10 - Talking new wheel-related things from Reynolds, Zipp, Hunt, Roval, and Chris King1:11:30 - James’ heart sinking news (tear emoji)

Not surprisingly given the big product launch this week, Dave and James have a lot to dive into with SRAM’s new Red AXS wireless road groupset: what’s different about it, what’s not so different, what’s been improved, and what’s stayed the same – and the thing everyone will invariably ask us, whether we’d choose that or the latest Shimano Dura-Ace. We also chat about the neat features embedded into the new Hammerhead Karoo GPS computer, and the significance of the new tire partnership between Zipp and Goodyear, Dave gets his thoughts about road bike cockpit reach off his chest, we choose our favorite tubeless plug kits, and we’re still worried about loose headsets.Escape Collective's podcasts are made possible by our members. Head on over to escapecollective.com/member to support this show and everything else on our podcast network.Timestamps:2:05 – A neat detail about Chris King’s new hubs we overlooked3:51 – A clarification on our position regarding road hookless tubeless wheels and tires6:04 – The lowdown on SRAM’s new Red AXS road groupset12:22 – Do we like it?16:19 – SRAM Red AXS or Shimano Dura-Ace Di2?21:15 – Don’t call it the Hammerhead Karoo 325:45 – Goodyear’s new tires are Zipp-specific, but we’re not entirely sure why30:02 – Effective reach is an overlooked fit dimension36:50 – Pick One! Our favorite tubeless plug kits47:20 – We’re still worried about loose headsets53:08 – Ratio Technology has a neat cage option for SRAM Transmission rear derailleurs55:53 – Pirelli has gotten even more Italian

Much leaked and recently teased, SRAM has now officially unveiled the latest iteration of its Red AXS road groupset. This top-tier offering introduces a new approach to shifter ergonomics and braking, along with a number of other smaller changes.Shile at the product launch, tech editor Dave Rome sat down with a few key members of SRAM’s road product and engineering team to discuss what’s new, what isn’t, and why. Following the chat about new SRAM things, Dave then sat down with the team from Hammerhead to discuss the equally new Karoo computer.You can also read our thoughts (and see photos) of these new products over at escapecollective.com.This deep dive is a bonus episode of Geek Warning podcast. Full access to such bonus episodes are typically limited to Escape Collective members, however, this one is free for all to access. If you enjoyed this content then please consider supporting our mission of being a wholly member-funded and independent media outlet. You can join at escapecollective.com/member.

We know, we know, it’s been ages since we did our last Ask a Wrench episode – late January, in fact. Guilty as charged. Better late than never? But as a nice bonus, our panel of geeks had an extra-long list of repair and maintenance questions to answer this time around, like why bedding in your new brakes is important, what not to do with your fancy digital torque wrench, how to diagnose a curious front-end clunk, how to protect your fancy new bike for the long haul, the best way to fix a paint chip, and much more.Fair warning: The full episode is only available to Escape Collective members. Head on over to escapecollective.com/member to support this show and everything else on our podcast network.

Welcome back to Geek Warning! This week, James and Dave have a varied conversation covering tech related to road, gravel, and mountain bike.The Giro has begun and Tadej Pogačar took a little tumble that many were quick to blame the equipment for. James and Dave discuss that such finger pointing was not warranted this time.At the opposite end of UCI disciplines, the conversation then turns to aero gains returning to professional downhill mountain bike racing.In the tech new front, the geeks praise Chris King’s new Gen 4 hubs and discuss why Forge+Bond entry into the road market may not be hugely successful. Plus there’s discussion of a new Bike Yoke dropper, Zwift’s price rises, and more.Meanwhile, a new Shimano Di2 patent has surfaced teasing wireless 13-speed shifting. Dave got Terry of BetterShifting.com on the phone to discuss the discovered patent and what it may mean.Our pick one this week is perhaps better described as a buyer’s guide to selecting a wheelset for gravel. From rim choices, to spoke choices, to hub choices, you’ll hear what our geeks prefer for their own bikes.Please jump into the comments section on our website for any feedback or questions related to the episode.Escape Collective's podcasts are made possible by our members. Head on over to escapecollective.com/member to support this show and everything else on our podcast network.Time stamps:4:00 - Hookless now getting undeserved blame..9:25 - Downhill mountain bike racing getting aero?16:30 - Chris King’s new Gen 4 hubs21:45 - Forge+Bond brings its thermoplastic rims to road28:40 - Chatting with Terry of BetterShifting.com about a certain Di2 patent36:07 - e-Cargo bikes being covered by car media is on James’ mind40:50 - Picking one gravel wheelset, or at least, what we look for52:00 - A member-submitted PSA56:15 - 3T’s Strada Italia, made in Italy57:15 - Bike Yoke’s Revive V3 dropper looks great59:20 - Wolf Tooth updates its chainguides1:00:25 - Zwift price increases1:04:20 – A gimmicky indoor stationary bike on Kickstarter

The Sea Otter Classic just wrapped up literally a few days ago, but clearly someone forgot to turn off the tap of new bikes and gear. Cervelo just announced a redesign of its ultra-popular Aspero gravel bike, and clearly put a lot of thought into what needed to change – and perhaps more importantly, what didn’t. Colnago also just dropped a new gravel bike of its own, the G4X, and Giant finally revamped its Trinity TT bike – no more rim brakes! Dave and James also chat about the eight billion tubeless valve stems out on the market, our favorite mountain bike computer mounts, and some of the latest happenings on the industry side.Escape Collective's podcasts are made possible by our members. Head on over to escapecollective.com/join to support this show and everything else on our podcast network.Timestamps:3:17 – Cervelo’s ultra-popular Aspero gravel bike gets a careful redesign10:50 – Zwift has added a whole bunch of new features, and some of them sound pretty sweet15:15 – What’s up with seemingly everyone having their own high-flow tubeless valves now?28:11 – Pick one! Our favorite mountain bike computer mounts38:54 – A dirty cassette can easily turn into a skipping chain43:22 – Colnago announces its new G4X gravel race bike58:54 – The last holdout of rim brakes in the pro peloton is no more59:30 – Enve Composites has been sold1:01:07 – What the heck is going on at Rapha?1:06:29 – More industry layoffs, this time at Cannondale

In this episode of Geek Warning, James is just back from the Sea Otter Classic and Dave is still thinking about chain lube and tools.On the Sea Otter front, James and Dave discuss new eco-friendlier tyres from Vittoria, new metal bikes from Ritchey and Digit, parts from 5Dev and Xpedo, along with new tools from PrestaCycle and Stan’s NoTubes. Check out James’ Sea Otter Classic galleries for visuals of what was discussed (and so so so much more).The conversation then turns to larger questions around Stages Cycling and Kona who were both missing-in-action at America’s largest trade show and cycling event.On Dave’s mind is a better way to apply chain lube following a recent video from Josh Poertner of Silca. Our PSA is less of a public service announcement and more a basic guide into figuring out where noises may be coming from in order to silence them. And then the geeks bring back the Pick One segment to discuss floor pumps.The episode finishes up with a new crank-related recall from FSA.All this and more in this week’s episode of Geek Warning – a podcast created for and funded by the members of Escape Collective.Time stamps:3:00 - Sea Otter highlights, including things from Vittoria, Ritchey, Digit, PrestaCycle, 5Dev, Xpedo, and more.26:00 - Unknowns ahead for Stages Cycling and Kona Bikes36:00 - Circling back to the HighBar helmet strap as seen at Sea Otter39:20 - A better way to apply chain lube?45:15 - Chasing down those noises52:40 - Picking one floor pump1:02:30 - An explainer on Time’s revamped pedal range1:06:00 - FSA recalls some its AGX+ gravel cranks

In this jam-packed episode, James and Dave discuss a handful of new gravel and road bikes that caught their attention during the week. Trek enters the rear Radar game to compete with Garmin, yet James’ early impressions of the CarBack raises more questions than answers.DT Swiss has just released a new mountain bike rear hub with a wholly new ratchet system, you can read about the new 240 DEG hub at escapecollective.com, and a bonus episode of Geek Warning with DT Swiss is also available, too. Meanwhile the coverage of new products from EVT, Fox, RockShox, and more continues at the end of the episode.On our mind and over the heads of the geek's families is the topic of gravel suspension. The geeks discuss who it’s for (and who it’s not), and why it’s proving to be more than a gimmick.Plus there’s a PSA, which is likely a repeat on something previously discussed, but that only makes it more important.Time stamps:3:00 - Kona’s new gravel bike for mountain bikers6:30 - FiftyOne’s new Sika road bike11:55 - Parlee’s new and unexpectedly-European-made Ouray road bike15:40 - Trek enters the rear radar game with its CarBack23:15 - DT Swiss’ 240 Ratchet DEG hub26:30 - Chatting all things gravel suspension (including Cane Creek’s Inverted answer to the space)43:25 - PSA: Your dropper needs love47:50 - Classified adds Enve to its partners list49:25 - New RockShox things50:40 - Fox overhauls its Transfer dropper53:00 - EVT enters the portable repair stand game55:10 - OnGaurd’s new RockSolid angle-grinder-resistant lock