It's just as well the Orbea Laufey H-LTD handles so well because if we turn our…
… CushCore E-MTB, Schwalbe Green Marathon and the new Commençal Meta 5 all feature in this week’s roundup of the most-interesting emails in our collective ‘box of the past seven days.
Hutchinson press release:
Hutchinson Launches The Wyrm Downcountry & Trail Tyre
- Aggressive 29” tyre created to bridge the gap between XC and Enduro
- Second addition to the Hutchinson Downcountry / Trail range
- Racing Lab version handmade in France and available for £69,95 / €75,99
21st June, Paris – Hutchinson, the French pioneer of tubeless cycling tyre technology has today announced the Wyrm, the newest member of its growing Mountain Bike range. An aggressive 29” tyre that has been meticulously crafted to bridge the gap between XC and Enduro.
The result is an incredibly capable downcountry offering ready when deployed on its own or primed to cover the full spectrum of XC, trail and enduro riding across a breadth of conditions when used in combination with other tyres in the Hutchinson range.
The Wyrm takes its name from a giant mythological creature, armed with sharp teeth and claws and ready to attack any situation, faultlessly navigating towards its prey and avoiding blows with unmatched agility. Its armour-like shell, robust and capable of fending off multiple attacks.
Like its namesake, Hutchinson’s latest addition to its Mountain Bike range is a force to be reckoned with. Ready to transform a bike’s character with a simple tyre change. The Wyrm sits in between the aggressive Griffus and the fast yet capable Kraken 2.4, completing the Hutchinson ecosystem of downcountry, trail and enduro tyres.
Employ the Wyrm as a standalone tyre for a capable, all-weather, downcountry set up or run it upfront with the recently relaunched Kraken 2.4 at the rear for a fast rolling, grippy summer trail pairing. Alternatively, as a rear tyre matched with the ever popular Griffus, it can offer increased speed in conditions where a full enduro setup may be overkill.
Construction Information:
The construction of the WYRM is based on a 66 TPI carcass matched with Hutchinson’s signature XC Race Riposte tri-compound and Hardskin bead to bead reinforcement. The result is an optimal balance between efficiency, responsiveness and puncture protection.
The Wyrm’s large 2.4” volume enables the tyre to be run at lower pressures, while its lower height and low-profile design ensure excellent efficiency, even on dry terrain requiring quick acceleration. A relatively round profile offers a forgiving platform for excellent support on rugged terrain, corners and off-camber sections.
The central tread pattern of the Wyrm takes its inspiration from Hutchinson’s XC range, using a dual chevron design where one chevron is designed to improve efficiency and rolling speed while the other focuses on improving traction and braking. Small bridges connect each section of the chevron to create a mechanical linkage, allowing each chevron to function as a solid block.
The central chevrons have been spaced out for effective mud shedding while the side knobs have been set up in an alternating pattern that allows a smooth transition between the centre and the side of the tyre while cornering. The side knobs also incorporate a small groove that promotes further deformation for superior grip.
The Racing Lab Wyrm is available in Tanwall and Black editions, weighing in at 950g and costing £69,95 / €75,99. While the standard version is available in Black only, costs £42,95 / €45,99 and weighs 1000g.
Schwalbe press release:
Tacky Chan: The fastest MTB tire in the world
The goal of the fastest rider in the Downhill World Cup, Amaury Pierron: To become even faster.
The goal of the manufacturer of the most successful tire in the Downhill World Cup (Magic Mary): To become even better. The result: The fastest MTB tire in the world.
Welcome, Tacky Chan!
The ambition to continue to improve even at the moment of greatest success meets the love of passionate tinkering with the smallest details. Out of this comes a tire that sets new standards and pursues no less a goal than to win every race. This benefits everyone who just wants to get going with their MTB: On the racetrack or on the home trail. But the road to Tacky Chan was rocky. Almost three years of development, numerous prototypes and several crashes.
2020
Schwalbe launches the project. The tire should be fast with full control and precision. On board: The Commencal/Muc Off team around the French downhill pros Myriam Nicole, Thibaut Daprela and Amaury Pierron. Some of the best of their generation.
Schwalbe develops the first prototypes within a few weeks. The basic idea of the new tire is created in a 3D model. The profile takes shape: Small ramps on the lugs are to improve the rolling characteristics, and 20% more stable shoulder lugs than Magic Mary increase the lateral support. The tire also gets L-shaped lugs, marginally longer braking edges, and a 10% increase in distances between the center lugs reduces the weight.
The procedure for creating the first prototypes is unusual: First, Schwalbe‘s developers perform a total of twelve diffe rent ‘cuts’ on a model of the Big Betty. These changes help to determine the perfect balance between the support and compliance of the shoulder lugs. And indeed: The Tacky Chan reaches faster speeds, whilst the braking traction is still higher.
2021
Off to the track: The prototype starts testing in the first races and is really fast! Thibaut Daprela chooses it for the 2021 World Championship. It rides brilliantly in practice and qualifying. But then: In the race, he crashes – twice. Nevertheless, he believes that the tire can reach the finish line. His feedback: The large lugs are a bit too stiff, too unyielding. More cornering control, please!
2021 / 2022
The next step is passionate detail work at the millimeter level: The shoulder lugs will be slightly smaller, the braking edges a millimeter longer. Double lug recesses bring closer interlocking with the ground surface.
It‘s the breakthrough. The tire celebrates victory after vic tory: Amaury Pierron wins the 2022 World Cup overall stan dings with it. „We always believed that the end result would be successful, but I still felt like a little kid at Christmas when we got the tires . A lot of hard work went into making the Tacky Chan, and you can really feel that when you ride it. To have amazing grip and control without compromising speed is insane. We pushed new limits and that’s really cool.“
Myriam Nicole wins the World Cup over the infamous Black Snake in Val di Sole. One of eleven World Cup wins for the Tacky Chan in 2022, Nicole says: “The Tacky Chan gives me a very direct feel. It’s unique to have a tyre that you can truly trust when you’re right on the edge, but which also gains speed and roll so fast.”
“If you want to make World Cup riders happy, it‘s simple: you just need a tire that makes them faster. Tacky Chan benefits everyone who wants to get going and test their limits with full power,“ -Carl Kämper (Product Manager MTB)
Tacky Chan is available now in different versions for downhill to enduro.
WTB press release:
WTB Updates Beloved Silverado and Volt Saddles with Fusion Form
WTB has modernized its beloved Silverado and Volt saddles with updated aesthetics, improved comfort (yes, that’s somehow possible) and our new Fusion Form technology. The Silverado and Volt have gone nearly unchanged since their introductions over a decade ago and their widespread prevalence on bikes today is proof that unrivaled comfort is a timeless achievement. When it came time to update them, we needed to be certain the new versions would further build upon the comfort of their tried-and-true predecessors. We dissected every minute detail of the original designs, refined them wherever feedback deemed necessary, and created countless samples in the process. In the end, thousands of hours of on-trail testing confirm the Silverado and Volt are simply better in every way.
Same Silverado. Just More Comfortable.
Who says you can’t make the best even better? Pressure mapping technology was used to determine where pinpoint pressures existed on the original Silverado and how we could better distribute those pressures to the sit bones. The result is a slightly flatter profile that further reduces perineal pressure. Silverado also now features a shorter 265mm length to provide seamless on-off transitions while still providing plenty of room for riders to slide forward and maximize power output on steep climbs. Shorter saddles allow people to achieve a more forward-leaning riding position without interference from the nose of the saddle. The updated Silverado is also available in a traditional wrapped-and-stapled version in medium (142mm) width and steel or cromoly rails to provide similar comfort at more affordable prices.
If It Ain’t Broke, Don’t Fix It. The Volt.
Over a million riders have depended on the comfort of the Volt and therefore our goal was to refresh the look of the Volt while still retaining its soul. We utilized pressure mapping technology to ensure the comfort and shape of the Volt stayed the same while giving it a modern look. After all, there’s a reason why the Volt is already among the most trusted saddles in the history of cycling. So here it is, the same Volt you know and love…now with a new look made possible by Fusion Form.
Fusion Form and Refined Aesthetics
Both updated saddles feature WTB’s new Fusion Form technology, which allows us to fine-tune the amount of fiber infused into the nylon of each specific saddle model to create a flex profile that balances comfort, support and durability to match the intended use of each individual saddle. The Silverado optimizes efficiency in a forward-leaning pedaling position by using fiber percentage similar to the recently released Gravelier saddle. The updated Volt base features less fiber to increase flex and improve comfort for mountain bike riders who tend to pedal in a more upright position. Fusion Form also allows the padding to be recessed into the base, which provides a sleek aesthetic without actually reducing overall padding thickness. This results in the same comfort you’ve come to know and love with our traditional wrapped-and-stapled saddles, but with a clean new look.
Four Saddles and More to Come!
The updated Silverado and Volt saddles join our recently released Gravelier and Devo saddles to form a collection of four WTB saddles featuring our new Fusion Form technology. This is only the beginning, as we have various other saddles in the works to further reinforce a new era of WTB saddles.
Availability
The updated Fusion Form version of the Silverado is available in a narrow (133mm) or medium (142mm) width while the new Volt is available in a medium (142mm) width. All WTB saddles are priced solely according to their rail material rather than by product family. Available saddle rail material options vary depending on the saddle, but MSRP remains the same for each rail material. MSRP is $47.95 for steel, $95.95 for chromoly, $119.95 for stainless, $142.95 for titanium and $249.95 for carbon. Can’t wait to get your hands (or buns) on one? Good news…they’re available now!
Cotic newsletter:
Electric Escapade Concept
Today at Eurobike, in collaboration with Reynolds, we have our Electric Escapade Concept on show in Germany.
It was all a bit tight to get it done in time, so apologies for the photos-against-the-wall-at-HQ, but I wanted to let you guys know about this ASAP.
Reynolds are launching a dedicated ebike dropout set which allows the fitment of the Mahle X-20 hub drive electric motor to a steel bike. The hub is a punchy, mid-power system with 55Nm of torque, and a lovely smooth delivery. It also has one of the lightest system weights of any ebike system at 3.2kg.
The Reynolds kit consists of either CNC, or in this case 3D printed dropouts to fit the Mahle hub, torque sensor and power plug, and we have integrated them into an Escapade style frame using a full Reynolds tubeset. 853 main tubes, and their new 631 rear end which we helped them design to work with the new dropouts and this application.
The 350Wh battery sits inside the custom Restrap frame bag, which still has plenty of luggage space to spare.
Added to that, I designed a bespoke 3D printed housing for the power/mode switch, and special size hose guides to add the 7mm power and 3mm sensor wires to the usual brake and gear cable routing.
The frame was built in house, right here at Cotic, which is why we were able to turn it around so fast. At the moment that capability is just prototyping, but it’s an exciting extra element to Cotic that our new bigger HQ has allowed us space for.
The bike itself is otherwise an Escapade Gold GRX build, with our Shimano GRX 1x drivetrain option and 650b wheels, with Byway tyres and Rocket saddle from our friends at WTB, and smooth riding comfort with eeSilk suspension stem and seatpost from our buddies at Cane Creek.
The perfect mile muncher?
What do you think of this concept? Would a powered gravel bike be something you would like to ride?
Cy
Founder and Director
CushCore press release:
Announcing CushCore E-MTB with an all-new design specifically engineered for E-MTBs
CushCore announces an all-new E-MTB tire insert, expanding their line-up to provide options for all types of riders, bikes, and terrains.
CushCore E-MTB utilizes the same patented technology and foam composition through their insert product range. However, CushCore engineers incorporated several new features into the E-MTB’s design to address the unique requirements of E-MTBs.
“E-MTBs are heavier and generate more forces than a traditional mountain bike, therefore we designed an insert with these parameters in mind. CushCore E-MTB provides maximum impact absorption, rim protection, vibration damping, and durability. You’ll ride more laps, with more control, but with less fatigue, and less worries.” – Adam Krefting, CushCore Founder/Inventor
“The E-MTB also incorporates the same new fluted sidewall design found on our recently released TRAIL insert. This provides progressive sidewall support: the harder you push, the more support you feel.” – Austin Sandford, CushCore Engineer
As with all CushCore tire inserts, E-MTB absorbs shock and vibration, improves cornering, and prevents flats/rim damage…giving you Total Confidence to charge into your next ride.
CushCore E-MTB – TOTAL CONFIDENCE, For All Riders
CushCore E-MTB retails for $160 USD/set or $80 USD/singles and comes in 27.5” and 29” sizes. Available August 2023 at quality bicycle dealers worldwide and at cushcore.com.
Key Features:
- Enhanced profile designed to withstand the increased weight and forces of an E-MTB. • Improved tire grip on technical uphill climbs.
- Fluted sidewall creates progressive cornering. The harder you push, the more sidewall support you feel.
- Flow channels engineered to increase air and sealant distribution to the main tire chamber. • Air valve notch allows the insert to sit flat on any rim.
- Absorbs impacts and damps vibration (aka “trail chatter”).
- CushCore’s highest level of rim protection and flat prevention.
- Wheel Sizes: 27.5” and 29”
- Tire Sizes: 2.3” – 2.8”
- Inner Rim Widths: 22mm – 35mm
Schwalbe opress release:
Tire closes the loop: Schwalbe introduces Green Marathon
To date, the world’s first bicycle tire made from used tires
A new benchmark in environmental friendliness: Schwalbe presents the Green Marathon, the first bicycle tire that closes the loop and was made from used tires, among other things. It is also produced with 100% fairly traded natural rubber and consists of a total of 70 percent recycled and renewable materials. Schwalbe has achieved this percentage through years of research and development work, incorporating the currently largest possible range of recycled and renewable raw materials.
Compared to the predecessor model, the production of the new Marathon saves more than a third of CO2 – around 34% CO2. To determine the CO2 savings, a detailed Product Carbon Footprint (PCF) of both models was calculated and evaluated according to the common IPCC AR6 standard (GWP 100, excl. biogenic CO2).
Frank Bohle, CEO of Ralf Bohle GmbH, the company behind Schwalbe, said: “The Green Marathon combines innovation and environmental friendliness on a new level. It is the result of years of research work that we have carried out together with our production partner Hung-A. We at Schwalbe are immensely proud to be able to present a model on the 40th anniversary of the popular Marathon that represents a milestone in terms of ecological responsibility. And most importantly, the Green Marathon doesn’t compromise on performance in any way and continues to lead the way in puncture protection and mileage.”
First product to come out of Schwalbe’s tire recycling program
The goal at Schwalbe from the beginning was to develop the most environmentally friendly bicycle tire ever. In the summer of 2022, the family-owned company unveiled the Schwalbe Recycling System, which was developed together with recycling specialist Pyrum Innovations AG, the world’s first and to date only holistic process for recycling used bicycle tires. Now, the Green Marathon is the first product on the market that uses 100% recycled carbon black (rCB). The rCB is a direct product of the recycling process and replaces fossil-derived industrial carbon black. It thus saves 80% CO2eq compared to the previously common combustion of bicycle tires.
In addition, the tire relies entirely on Fair Rubber. The fairly traded natural rubber comes from certified tappers. Through Fair Rubber e.V., Schwalbe pays all small farmers at the beginning of the supply chain an additional premium of €0.50 per kilo of natural rubber. This corresponds to about one third of the current world market price of rubber.
The other environmentally friendly components of the Green Marathon:
- The ADDIX ECO rubber compound not only consists of 100% rCB, but also of a particularly high proportion of natural rubber, as well as recycled rubber and silica from rice husk ash. At the same time, it is 98% pollutant-free.
- The puncture protection belt GreenGuard is made from one third recycled latex products, the other two thirds are Fair Rubber.
- The bead core wire is made of recycled steel.
Benchmark for mileage and puncture protection – for bicycles and e-bikes
Compared to its predecessor, the Marathon not only impresses with its environmental friendliness, but also with a much more modern and sporty tread design. At the same time, it continues to set the standard for mileage and puncture protection. The Green Marathon is ideally suited for daily use and for all everyday situations for urban and touring riders.
This makes it ideally suited for both e-bikes and bicycles – it manages the balancing act between the two segments without compromise. The size portfolio has also been expanded, with modern e-bike sizes consistently added.
Commençal press release:
COMMENCAL META V5 – NEW ERA
After four years of development, twenty-eight different prototype frames and fifteen enduro races, it’s official. A new era officially starts now with the META V5. A bike which is a combination of our racing heritage, design experience and extensive knowledge of aluminium.
The newest evolution of the META meets our initial objectives: to be playful, responsive on any terrain, and pedal efficient. And of course, to meet requirements of the most demanding enduro riders with have 29-inch wheels, 160/150mm travel and the most advanced COMMENCAL geometry to date. It’s the perfect combination to achieve our goals, and the COMMENCAL ENDURO PROJECT riders have already started on that!
Racing DNA:
For the development of the META V5 we have used our experiences from state-of-the-art downhill World Cup racing and complex SUPREME DH V5 development processes. It wasn’t just the frame that was the subject of extensive analysis, but also the whole bike’s set up with different suspension options, tyres, and wheels, to make the bike more efficient at each race. The same approach led us to launch the COMMENCAL ENDURO PROJECT Team, who have played a key role in testing various platforms, technologies, and geometries. After 15 races, 1 win and 2 podiums in the World Cup we have achieved our goal: to have a new winning platform in our range.
“This new META V5 is an ultra-dynamic bike that pedals super well. I would say its biggest strength is versatility. Comfortable whatever the terrain and during races, that’s particularly important.”
Alex Rudeau
Geometry
Geometry is all about making the bike predictable, playful through corners and stable during any ride. Thanks to the Virtual Contact System (VCS) the bike is responsive and playful when things get technical at high speed, and it’s more stable offering more confidence and more room to focus on the line. The variable chain stay lengths of 435mm in size S/M and 440mm in L/XL provide excellent weight distribution while a flip chip makes the bike adaptable to the rider’s preferences or the track profile for example.
Greatest features:
The new META V5 comes with two cable routing options to choose from. For those who prefer a clean cockpit and fully integrated routing, the META V5 has a headset that is prepared. Those who like the more classic look, that’s ok too.
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