We've had a tech feature-packed week! From the promising expansion of European distributor Traffic Distribution into the UK market, offering a glimmer of hope amid industry challenges, to a comprehensive guide on the best waterproof MTB shorts for challenging UK conditions. We've also learnt the tricks of the trade with an expert guide on cleaning disc brakes and discovered the latest upgrades in YT Industries' Decoy MX Core lineup for 2024. Keep reading to check out off.road.cc's top tech stories this week.

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Traffic Distribution expands into the UK market

2023 bombtrack hook ext c fork.jpg, by Liam Mercer

European cycling distributor Traffic Distribution has announced it's entering the UK market, introducing popular brands Bombtrack and Seido amid industry challenges. As major retailers face administration and brands report profit drops, Traffic Distribution's move offers a little glimmer of hope. There is no minimum buy-in for retailers and a stock feed system should be available by February 2024.

• Read more about Traffic Distribution's entry into the UK market here. 

Best waterproof MTB shorts

2023 WP shorts BG.jpg, by Liam Mercer

Waterproof membranes, DWR coatings, and taped seams - those are the keywords you want to be looking for when buying a pair of waterproof mountain bike shorts. This buyer's guide highlights the best waterproof MTB shorts for challenging UK conditions and lists all the best shorts we've tried and tested here at off.road.cc. 

• Find out what the best waterproof mountain bike shorts are here.

How to clean disc brakes on a bicycle

Mondraker e-Prime R+ - brake calliper.jpg, by off_road

Squealing, rubbing or not working at all… Disc brakes can sometimes seem like an absolute nuisance. However, they are very hard to beat in terms of their stopping power - when they work. To get the best out of your disc brakes, the simple way to keep them effective is regular cleaning. This feature provides a comprehensive guide on cleaning and maintaining them and includes expert advice from Shimano, Fibrax, SRAM, Juice Lubes, and Hope Technology. 

• Learn more about cleaning your disc brakes here. 

YT Industries updates its Decoy MX Core lineup

2023 yt decoy mx core 5.png, by Liam Mercer

YT Industries has updated its Decoy MX e-MTB lineup for 2024, introducing three models with new specifications. The top-tier Decoy Core 5 features Shimano's EP801 motor, XT Di2 12-speed drivetrain, Fox Factory 38 fork, X2 Factory shock, SRAM Code RSC brakes, Crankbrothers Synthesis alloy wheels, and a 720Wh battery. Prices for the full lineup range from £5,000 to £8,000.

• Read the full details about the YT Decoy MX Core lineup here.

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