My Area 106

Wanna be like Jeff? Check out these new grips...

(check out the grips Sue and Jeff are sportin...)

Trek/VW team members are all using a new grip this season thanks to a sponsorship with "Esi" 100% silicone racing grips. I noticed that Jeff Schalk, Chris and Sue where sportin these grips on their Fuel's for the past Mohican race. I couldn't help but ask Chris what he thought of these grips in which he gave them high marks and highly recommended that I give them a try.

So I thought, what the heck, I'm always willing to try something new, especially since my #1 choice for a grip is how much it aids me against numb hands. I've tried several Bontrager grips (my house brand of course), but many of our styles are very slim and lightweight, but just don't help me with my hand numbness. I had been using Oury grips (the big oversized style of grip) but was intrigued in talking to Jeff and Chris about these Esi grips.

Product Review - "The Quick Pod"

Do you have problems taking pictures of yourself while riding a bike? If so, we've got the product for you! It's the quick pod. Either use as a hand held device like in the picture or possibly even attached to your favorite branded helmet with the use of some zip ties (zip ties not included).

Yes, in no time at all you'll be taking great personal head shots of yourself like a pro (well, maybe not quite as good as the STORK).

Thats right, in no time at all you can take professional personal photo's like these popular bloggers (Amanda, Jesse, Bob, and Whitney). Quantities are extremely limited (I can't see anyone buying this, but what the heck, hey?) so order today before someone like the STORK purchases them all.

Bob

The Great Tubeless Install - I'm going tubeless!!

How many of you still haven't made the jump to going tubeless with your ATB tire set up? Manufacturers today have made this a very simple process than in previous years and going tubeless really has merit. Lower wheel weight, lower air pressures for better handling and best of all less flats. What finally convinced me to get off my butt and make the move was spending a weekend with Dave O'Connell (Trek East Coast Demo Rep) at Ray's MTB in Cleveland, Ohio. As we pulled bikes off of the trailer and into the park and over the course of the weekend, the tires that were flat or had gone flat where all tubed tires. All the tires he had converted to tubeless where fine and experience no problems (with those tires) for the weekend. This is coming from a guy while busting his butt prepping bikes for demo's all weekend long doesn't want to be spending a lot of time changing flat tires.

Bontrager Power Charger

Why is Josh so excited you ask? I just scored my new sample of the Bontrager Power Charger and Josh thought I was giving it to him (sorry Josh, but no swag today). If you're thinking of asking family or friends for a cool Christmas present this year, you might suggest the new Bontrager Power Charger.

Check this out: This is a rechargable portable inflator that recharges from AC or DC power sources. It also operates from the vehicle's 12V power outlet. It inflates up to 300 psi and comes with an Auto Select head (either presta or schrader valves) and also includes a ball needle to help pump up your balls (athletic balls mind you). You receive with the charger a 12V DC car power cord, a AC home power cord, pressure graph (built into the top of the chargers case and a charging indicator. It has a built in carrying handle and a side internal chamber that holds both your power sources.

This is a sweet product in a small footprint that doesn't take up much room nor weight and has a retail price of $69.99.

Gotta get a pair of these winter boots

Late last season I was whinning to Barry Jeffries (owner of Dirty Harry's) about winter riding and how my ole toes would be so cold and how I hated throwing on the neopreme booties all the time (I know, I have issues). He convinced me to make the plunge and purchase a pair of the Lake Winter Boots, which I did. By then, it was late in the season and I only used them for a couple rides but I knew they where the real deal for winter wear! The Lake shoes I own are actually last's years model but I don't believe they change drastically year to year. I've worn them a few times already this year and what a difference they make. Very easy to put on and snug down on the foot. I have a very narrow foot and the securing system they utilize uses a fishing type of line that you dial in that ratchets up and secures the foot. Due to my narrow foot, I run out of line so for a bit snugger fit I'll most likely have to buy a aftermarket pair of insoles to take up a little more room.