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As a bike shop, trail centre and MTB course provider, we are in a unique position to be able to use our products to the max. Our staff are pretty much out on the trails constantly. Whether it is before, during or after work (even in our dreams!!!), we are always product testing and really do know what does and does not work on the Whinlatter trails and further afield.
Below are some reviews for products we are currently using and could not live ride without.
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Altura Ladies' Transformer Windproof Jacket and Altura Ladies' Quantum X Baggy Shorts
Here's a cool, co-ordinated combo that (I reckon) brightens up any ride - even when it's lashing it down! I've found the Transformer jacket is light enough to wear in the summer as a jersey, with or without the sleeves, while it's warm enough to wear in the cooler times with another layer underneath. Removing or attaching the sleeves is quick and simple - and as the sleeves are in one piece, there's no risk of misplacing one of them.
As for the shorts, they are definitely the most comfy and most stylish baggies I've ever owned, and they complement my black-and-white bike perfectly. The lightweight fabric is easy to clean and dries very quickly. Of course, the best thing is the 'lipstick pocket' - the ideal place to store the pink lipstick that matches my jacket! (Deb)
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Camelbak Ladies' Luxe
I love the Luxe! I can't believe what a difference having a shorter pack on my back has made - it's so much more comfy, as I hardly notice it's there. Plus, the 'women's specific' straps hold the pack firmly in place. There's no hint of pink in sight, which some girlies will prefer - I don't mind, either, as it might clash with my pink jacket! The Luxe comes with the new Antidote reservoir which is a huge improvement on the old one, especially the much-easier-to-open 'filler cap'. Awesome awesome... (Deb)
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Altura Ergofit Gloves
The Altura Ergofit gloves have been improved for the 2011-12 winter season. There is a little more room inside allowing me to fit into the XL rather than XXL (which may actually fit Craig's shovels!). My Ergofit gloves hardly left my hands last winter and even though there are many more miles left in them, I am going to have to treat myself to a shiny new pair... especially as I'm loving the new, 'go-faster' red bits! (Sean) |
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Night Vision Evo Jacket
As seen on Sport Relief Celebrities, this is also one of Rich's favourite jackets. The jacket has a great cut, feels comfortable and has never let him down, whatever the weather. The Hi Viz properties have proven really useful whilst Night Riding with clients. It packs down really well and is a no-fuss jacket to wash (a plus point with the wife too!!!). |
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Altura Attack 3/4 Waterproof Baggy Shorts
These shorts have been thoroughly tested (unfortunately for our guides!!!) during this year's autumn/winter weather conditions. The ESSENTIAL piece of winter kit, we would not leave home without them. With a great thigh long fit, they do not rub below the knee as other 3/4 shorts can tend to and have kept everyone bone dry all season. Rich gives them 12 out of 10. |
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Altura 2nd Skin Base Layer
A new addition to the Altura range, this base layer really does work. When out riding all day, the top keeps you warm and so helps to ease the muscle fatigue often associated with a long day on the hills, and therefore improves recovery time too. Fits snugly under any cycling top and the best base layer we have tested. |
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Altura Summit Gloves
A favourite amongst the Cyclewise Staff. These gloves are waterproof, breathable and the 3 layer construction makes tham far less bulky than other gloves. We especially love the light padding on the palm. Overall, hands stay warm and dry... even after washing the bike!!! 10/10 |
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Sealskinz Waterproof Socks
These socks have been around for a long time and there is a great reason for this.....they keep your feet dry. Once you have owned a pair, you wonder how you have managed without them in the past. Tested all year round in the Lake District!!, the merino-lined pair are a particular favourite with our staff due to their comfort and warmth. |
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Shimano M985 XTR All-mountain Platform Pedals
I invested in a pair of these superlight platform pedals for my 2011 race season. But, before it kicked off, I was Mr Sensible and did a couple of shake down rides where I was suitably impressed. The pedals have the same ease of clipping in as their DX cousins without the weight penalty. They offer a much more stable platform than the standard SPD which was very confidence-inspiring.
When it came to my first race, the pedals performed flawlessly, the smooth bearings and stiff axles helped make the bike feel solid all day.
At £119.99, these pedals do come at a premium price, but when you choose the right things to spend a bit extra on, it makes a huge difference. (Sean)
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The Craig Scott
A tried and tested piece of gear. Tough and durable, this product just gets better with age. We can highly recommend the Craig Scott as one of our most effective pieces of kit and one which never lets you down. A favourite in the shop and out on the trail, the Craig Scott will be around for a long time!!!!!
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Panaracer Cedric Gracia Range
These are the new XC tyres from Panaracer CG range ( they also do an AM tyre with a DH tyre due soon)
I have put 80km in them and I am very impressed. The high centre ridge keeps rolling resistance low while the side knobs give just enough grip in the corners. At 2.1" wide they are best suited to XC and fast trail riding so if that's your bag, give them a go, you won't be disappointed. (Craig) |
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Panaracer Rampage SC All Mountain Tyres
The perfect tyre for the trails at Whinlatter. The ZSG Active Compound is ultra sticky, flexible and softer, but still very durable. These qualities provide awesome grip, excellent mud shredding and outstanding descending properties - ideal for extreme and aggressive riding styles. ASB Anti Snake Bite adds confidence to your ride. |
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Cube Reaction
This is the first bike in the Cube range with a triple butted HPA Alu Frame. After a short first ride I had to make the first change, the bike was lightening fast going up but the flat bar just doesn't suit my riding style on the descents, so on went a low rise riser bar and hey presto it descends as well as it climbs. The first true test came when I entered a local trail quest (with my mate 'Big Nose' Howard) My verdict...This is one fast trail bike, the back end feels stiff without giving me a sore back and the front end responds to every command. It is full XT so no problems with the drive kit and the formula RX brakes stop on a dime with plenty of feel. This bike is going to get a hammering... bring on Mountain Mayhem!!!! (Craig)
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