Handlebar width debate, flying with bike tips and new bike from Whyte + more
These are the top tech stories of the week
This week, we've explored the debate on handlebar width—narrow versus wide—and debated whether the winter trails favour hardtail mountain bikes above all. If winter riding really isn't your jam, we've also listed all the essential tips on flying with your bike so you won't face any surprises at the airport. On the news side, as GCN+ bids adieu, we've discussed the potential shifts in off-road coverage and had a look at Whyte's new E-Lyte e-MTB lineup. Lastly, let's not forget our favourite Black Friday mountain bike deals that we've curated in one simple place for you. Read on for the latest in the world of off-road cycling.
- Are e-MTBs the great leveller?
- Types of mountain bikes: every MTB category explained
- Best winter cycling gloves 2023 - mountain bike gloves to keep your hands warm
Are wider MTB handlebars better?
2023 Wilier Urta Max SLR handlebar.png, by Wilier
Handlebars are the key aspect of steering control and stability on a mountain bike. Through the years, we've seen a shift from narrow handlebars to wider but how has that come to be and what really is the ideal handlebar width? Read to find out.
Is the hardtail the best winter mountain bike?
2022 ragley mmmbop hero.jpg, by Liam Mercer
We argue that hardtail mountain bikes are the ideal choice for winter riding, despite the prevalent popularity of full-suspension bikes. In wet and challenging conditions, hardtails shine due to their sheer simplicity, allowing you to focus on honing skills and choosing optimal lines.
In addition to all those skills you can build up with the hardtails, they also require less maintenance and time for cleaning than full-suspension bikes, as they lack pivot bearings prone to wear and gathering all sorts of dirt.
How to take a bike on a plane
evoc-bike-travel-bag-and-stand-airport-2.jpeg, by Suvi Loponen
Flying with your bike can be quite a complicated matter – but it doesn't have to be. You need to check and compare airline fees, decide how you are going to pack your bike and also make sure that you reserve enough time to get through all the airport hurdles with your massive bike box. If you are planning to take your bike to some more exotic or even sunny landscapes, you can get all the essential flying tips in this feature.
What's next for off-road coverage as GCN+ set to be terminated
Pauline Ferrand Prevot performs at UCI XCO World Cup in Nove Mesto na Morave, Czech Republic on May 14, 2023, by Redull
GCN+, known for its extensive racing coverage and cycling documentaries, is set to terminate its platform and app on 19 December 2023. This decision has somewhat taken the off-road community by surprise, as the platform only took over the UCI Mountain Bike World Series coverage from Red Bull TV earlier this year. While details about the future of the live coverage remain a little unclear, we've taken an in-depth look at the future possibilties of off-road coverage.
Whyte's new E-Lyte e-MTB brings big power and low weight
E-Lyte-150-RSX-Whyte-bc-12.jpg, by Liam Mercer
Whyte has introduced the E-Lyte e-MTB lineup, featuring Bosch's Performance Line SX motor and a 400Wh battery and weighing just 16.4kg. The E-Lyte is the brand's first foray into e-MTBs and also the first full carbon framed bike it has produced in a decade. The lineup includes the E-Lyte 140 Work and two 150 models, RSX and Works, offering varying suspension options. The 140 Work focuses on lightweight for cross-country and trail riding, while the 150 Works partners with Hope for a trail/enduro style build. Prices range from £8,000 to £11,000.
Best Black Friday mountain bike deals 2023: price drops on bikes, gear and components
Black Friday mountain bike deals 2023, by Aaron Borrill
Love it or hate it, Black Friday madness is just about to kick and that means some absolute bargains are there for the taking. We've scraped the internet for the best deals and listed them here in one place for you.
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