How to get a budget MTB, tips for winter bikepacking, new bikes from 3T and Mondraker and more

These are the top tech stories of the week

Suvi Loponen

Dec 2 2023

Each week, we sift through the world of off-road cycling to bring you the most captivating and interesting stories, and this week there have been plenty! Whether you're a seasoned rider or just gearing up for your first adventure, we've got you covered with our features on winter bikepacking, budget MTB buying tips and buyer's guides. We've also seen a few new bike and component launches from 3T, Mondraker, Fizik and Fulcrum. Let's dive in!

How to buy a mountain bike for cheap

Mountain biking, as any form of cycling, can be quite an expensive hobby to start. We've had a detailed look at how to get yourself a mountain bike affordably. Whether that means buying second-hand or waiting for good online deals, we've listed the best ways for you to save those hard-earned pennies.

In the market for a new bike but don't want to blow your life savings? Here's how to buy a mountain bike for cheap.

3T unveils the Extrema Italia gravel bike

Italian brand, 3T has launched a new Extrema Italia gravel bike, designed for a range of terrain, blending speed and capability. With features such as tyre clearance for 57mm or 2.2in tyres, triple bosses on fork legs for extra storage, and an aerodynamic frame with hidden cables, the Extrema Italia aims to cater to both speed and adventure. The bike offers various build configurations, starting at £4,593.

Learn more about the 3T Extreme Italia gravel bike here

Winter bikepacking: 8 essential tips for a successful adventure

Winter bikepacking demands strategic planning for the challenges posed by colder temperatures, wet landscapes, and reduced daylight. If you decide to venture out, we've compiled eight essential tips for a successful winter bikepacking trip, including route planning, right kit, and testing it all out before embarking on the adventure.

Planning a winter bikepacking adventure? Here are our 8 winter bikepacking tips

Best mountain bike saddles - the best off-road options tested

Saddles are a very personal, but important part of your bike's comfort. We've had a look at what are the best saddles out there for mountain biking, to make your search for the perfect saddle a little easier.

Read the full story here

Fizik introduces Argo X saddle for off-road racing

Fizik has unveiled the Argo X saddle, designed for committed off-road racers in XC, cyclo-cross, and gravel fields. Built on the short-nosed Argo racing saddle, the Argo X features a wide, short-nosed structure that should remain comfortable in aggressive riding positions.

Available in X3 and X5 models, priced at £145 and £100 respectively, the flat profile saddle is one to consider if you're into off-road racing.

Here's everything you need to know about the Fizik Argo X

The Red Zone Carbon+ is Fulcrum's next-level carbon MTB wheel

Fulcrum has introduced the Red Zone Carbon+ wheel for cross-country mountain biking. With insights from elite riders, Fulcrum has achieved up to five percent weight reduction and heightened the wheel's stiffness through an asymmetric spoke bed and advanced carbon layup. Weighing 1,385g, the 29er wheelset is priced at £1,970 for an XD freehub and £2,000 for Microspline.

These are some proper techy wheels so here are all of the details on the Fulcrum Red Zone Carbon+

The Durango effect and the rise of USA cycling

Durango, Colorado, with its picturesque landscapes and laid-back lifestyle, has emerged as somewhat of a hub for elite cyclists. Since hosting the 1990 UCI World Mountain Bike Championships, the small town has cultivated legendary riders like Ned Overend and John Tomac. We've also got an insight from Vuelta-winning Sepp Kuss who was born in Durango, on the town's unique culture and how it fosters a tight-knit community of skilled and fit riders.

Read the full story here

Specialized issues recall for Supacaz Orbitron pedals

Specialized has issued a voluntary recall for Supacaz Orbitron flat pedals due to detachment concerns. Riders experiencing issues with their pedals can return them for a full refund.

Got a set? Here's what you need to do with your Supacaz Orbitron flat pedals

Mondraker updates kids' mountain bike range

Mondraker has updated its children's mountain bike lineup, introducing two new models and incorporating Mahle's X35 motor system into the Play and F-Play bikes. The kids' bikes feature technology mirroring Mondraker's adult range, with options ranging from full-suspension to e-MTBs. The Trick model, replacing the Leader, offers various wheel sizes, dropper posts, and four-piston brakes. The F-Play features a cross-country design with Mahle's X35 motor, providing 40Nm of torque and a 250Wh battery, extendable with a 210Wh range extender.

Here's the full story

Author block

Suvi Loponen

Tech writer

Suvi joined off.road.cc in 2022 as a tech writer and brought in her enthusiasm for gravel and long-distance riding. She's a lover of underbiking and exploring on the bike both on and off-road, especially if it means finding more great cafes and some good viewpoints.