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Maxxis Minion DHF / DHR tires, Gravity Racing Components Shorty replacement levers, SixSixOne Racebrace Pro ankle brace |
Words by Stuart Kernaghan
Maxxis Minion It looks like summer is rapidly coming to a close with all the rain we've had in the last week, and with that precip comes some slightly different equipment requirements. More / warmer clothes are near the top of that list, but new rubber isn't a bad idea either.
The tires that worked well on those dry, dusty summer trails may not work as well on snot-slick roots and ramps this winter, and a lot of people will be switching to tires with a softer rubber compound for some added grip. This rainy season, we'll be testing Maxxis's front- and rear-specific Minion downhill tires in a 2.7" width and the super-soft Super Tacky 42a durometer compound. Maxxis tires have always been popular here at nsmb. We've actually equipped our freeride team with Maxxis tires - and for good reason: they're beefy, the tires have tough sidewalls, and there are several different models that will work well on the Shore. |
 Maxxis Minion DHR 2.7 - big, sticky rubber Photo: Stuart Kernaghan |
The directional ramped knobs have proved to be very capable so far, although they have been a little quick wearing on dry trails. But the true test of the Minions will come when the heavens open up and the trails turn into creeks. Tech note - the 2.7 fits on an older Bullit rear triangle, with a little modification to the chainstay protector.
 GRC Shorty replacement levers Photo © Yodo Distribution 2003 |
Gravity Racing Components Shorty replacement levers Cam tested out a set of GRC's Hayes replacement levers a while back, and decided the DH Moto lever was the most appropriate for his two-fingered braking style.
Well, I'm not Cam and I prefer to slow the sled with one finger (except in those moments of extreme terror, when I'll squeeze two fingers onto the lever). |
The Shorties are considerably thicker than the stock Hayes levers through the middle part of the blade, which should make for a stiffer braking experience and cut down on the likelihood of snapping a lever. All GRC levers are CNC machined from 6061 billet stock aluminum, and are interchangeable for either front or rear brake. The matte black finish, combined with a really sweet etched logo, also make for an aesthetically appealing product. The Shorties are only compatible with Hayes disc brakes.
SixSixOne Racebrace Pro Anybody who's ever blown out their ankle riding will tell you (at length) about how much it sucks, and how long it takes to recover. And when you've finally recovered, how easy it is to hurt that ankle again.
The inelegant solution to the problem is to buy rolls and rolls of trainer's tape and wrap your ankle up like a linebacker, but that can be a pain in the ass when the ride's over and it's time to take all that crap off. A more practical alternative is SixSixOne's line of ankle braces. The Racebrace Pro goes one step further than sliding over the ankle and lacing up as us the case with most braces. It incorporates a set of straps that cross across and under the brace before attaching with hook-and-loop closures for additional support. There's also one main strap that attaches around the top of the brace to keep everything secure. |
 The Racebrace Pro Photo: Stuart Kernaghan |
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