LCP

Jim Clarkson

Articles by Jim Clarkson

Ritchey WCS Kite dropper post review

Ritchey's WCS Kite dropper post might only have a maximum drop of 125mm and three height positions to choose from, but it brags a relatively simple internal system that crucially can be serviced easily and it's proved itself to be reliable and tough.

Calibre Dark Peak review

With a solid spec that wouldn’t look amiss on a bike the next price bracket or two up, the Dark Peak is a super value for money gravel-cross-adventure-do-it-all bike that is also reliable and fun to ride. Specced with branded components throughout and built around a double-butted 6061 aluminium frame with carbon forks, if you are looking at dipping your toes into the gravel bike market on a budget, then this is a great place to start. 

Merida Silex 700
Merida Silex 700

Merida Silex 700 review

Sitting in the upper end of the gravel range from Merida, the Silex 700 delivers a no-nonsense package of reliable components, parts and a geometry that brings a stable ride feel. Its geometry vaguely references mountain bikes, which makes for a really excellent ride feel, on road or off, blurring the line between road and mountain in a fast, fun bike.

Morvelo Winter Attack Exile jacket review

The Morvelo Winter Attack Exile (link is external) is a Durable Water-Repellant finish (DWR) treated jacket made from an award-winning P4Dry fabric that uses recycled ground coffee. The fabric claims to resist odour, and continually wicks away moisture whilst reducing condensation - so far, so good. The cut has a fairly casual yet functional bias - offering the unique Morvelo look, backed up with some well thought out technical features.

Catlike Leaf 2C helmet review

The Catlike Leaf 2C is a unique and modern looking, mid-value lid with a slightly more trail or 'enduro' focussed low neck protection.  The venting is effective, but the retention system is a letdown and the colourways won't suit those that prefer an understated look.

RideWorks Narrow/Wide chainring review

As a relative newcomer to the crowded chainring market, Rideworks deliver a no-nonsense, well made and finished chainring. I had zero issues in use across mud, dust and everything in between. The life of the chainring has been as good as leading brands, and it offers a solid UK made option

eXotic Super Wide Full Carbon Riser Bar review

Good and cheap hardly ever go hand in hand, by this full carbon bar from eXotic manages to nicely toss that rule aside - whilst not super cheap compared to other carbon bars, it offers low weight, and a variety of  versions with differing backsweep, upsweep and rise for not much more money than higher end alloy bars.

Dakine Hot Laps 5L waist pack review

The Dakine Hot Laps is an unashamedly short ride focussed pack. The 5L pack tested holds more than is probably safe to carry on your hips, but it's perfect for a short blast without the need for a full backpack. It's got tonnes of storage options, it's well built and as long as not overfilled, perfect for the task.

Juice Lubes Scrub and Buff Set review

Juice Lubes offer this great value box set of all you need to keep your bike running clean and smooth. Degreaser, cleaner, polish, chain lube and chain cleaner all offer something in the bike cleaning routine.

eXotic-Alloy-Flat-pedals.jpg

eXotic Alloy Flat pedals review

eXotic offers a fine set of no-nonsense alloy flat pedals that deliver on performance and are great value. At this price, there is little to moan about, but some slight improvements such as longer pins would make these outstanding.

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