CRC are doing 29% off brake components inc pads just now,
http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/s?q=hope+m4
I grabbed a set of Clarks organics for £4.99, should arrive today and I can replace my knackered OEM ones. Ok so they aren't the most amazing pads in the world but I just wanted a straight replacement for the original Hayes Stroker Ryde ones.
Random product impression:
www.vitalmtb.com/product/guide/Wheelsets,44/Spank/Oozy-26AL-EVO,11538
I got a set of these during the week, and from first impressions they look like they are set to be my new go-to recommendation AM wheelset, pushing Stans flow off their throne.
I've seen plenty of spank wheelset in the last few years (part of Maklu full builds) as well as components (stems bars etc). None of which has come close to the quality of finish on these.
The beadnip shape is also so good for running tubeless setup, I can't see these tyres burping at all, so definitely better than the Stans Flows in that respect. Got some Hams Dampfs and Nobby nicc combo on there and th wheelset is comi in so light, even at 650b size.
Off to Morzine this coming week, but will be tearing up Bike park Wales on them as soon as I'm back
Ps: Also got some Sank Spike pedals for the DH bike, OMG, didn't realise a pedal can be that sexy!
I also have noticed the nights drawing in a bit more quickly now. How many of you guys are able to ride right through the winter? Do trail conditions prevent this somewhat or do you lap up the wet and tough conditions? I tend to ride after work so after the clocks go back it becomes difficult. Night rides with torches are good, but...not the same are they. You can't go as fast I find.
Another thing.... why do MTB manufacturers use such silly names for their gear? Terms like "stiffy" "handjob" "fatboy" "b1tch sticks" etc. I've actually had to turn down getting a product that was in stock, in my size and colour I wanted because it had something daft written down it (I have kids that will see it so...)
I'll be honest and say I've no idea what pads are better than others. I did Google a few different types before plumping for the Clarks ones and the only conclusion I could come to after doing a bit of net research was that everyone has different opinions about types of pads, which ones are good/bad etc. For every review saying 'Pad brand and type xxxxx are superb' you can find an equal amount of reviews saying the complete opposite and that 'Pad brand and type xxxxx are noisy, squeal, lack power and feel, eat my rotors'.
As I'm only fairly quick and don't go nuts on the trails on my hardtail Cube I just wanted an inexpensive replacement for the OEM pads that have served me well over their lifespan. I wasn't too fussed on price and as long as performance was up to standard in comparison to the OEM pads I would be happy. So I figured that if these Clarks organic ones at a fiver were good then I've scored a goal. If they were rubbish, noisy or didn't brake well then I'd hardly lost a fortune. Might be a bit of a simplistic way to look at it but then I've only been MTB'ing for 3 years so I'm none the wiser really.
Night riding is great. You might not actually go as fast as you do in daylight but it feels much faster.
Frozen trails are usually faster (and grippier - as long as there isnt ice on top) than dry summer conditions.
The clocks going back and the switch to night riding is quite relaxing. No more rushing home from work to try and squeeze in 45 mins before it gets dark. You can take your time and go out whenever you want.
I continue to commute on the road throughout the winter (I too love those crisp, dry and cold pitch black mornings ) but usually save the MTB'ing for the weekends in the daylight. I want to try a bit of night riding on my local trails this year though, my road bike lights are more than up to it so quite looking forward to having a go.
Yeah, ice on top makes things interesting. I nearly ended up in the canal last year
Some trails are better frozen though, deep mud which is difficult to ride through in the warmer months freezes solid and you can float over the top of it.
Quite looking forward to some winter riding at the moment, i'm sure the novely will soon wear off tho.
Do you think we'll get enough snow this year to justify buying a fatbike?