Friday Debrief: e-bikes vs. e-MTBs, Echo Grips, Rotten Fruit, and More…

We started “The Debrief” on our YouTube channel last year as a way of highlighting the week’s news and things that caught our attention on the website, in the conversation, and elsewhere around the community. To take this a step further, we’re posting a weekly Debrief here on the site to highlight all of those things and more, including upcoming events and interesting things our readers shared in the comments. Check out this week’s findings below.

Bits & Bobs

New products that are worth highlighting but didn’t make the Dispatch…

Forager Cycles Rotten Fruit

Forager Cycles just updated their web store with some of their “Rotten Fruit” Cable Cherries, all with cosmetic blemishes that are heavily discounted, so everyone wins. The Cable Cherries all function as normal and are randomly selected, so you won’t know what color you’re getting until they arrive.

$13.39 / Made in USA / Details

Updated BioLite Headlamps

BioLite just updated its rechargeable headlamp lineup with new features and more lumens. There are three new models: the Headlamp 325, 425, and 800 PRO. Both the 425 and 800 PRO accept pass-thru charging, have increased beam distances, and are now rated from -20°C to 50°C. They are priced at $49.95, $59.95, and $99.95, respectively.

$49.95 – $99.95 / Made in China / Details

WTB Vulpine now in 40mm

Previously only offered in a 36mm wide version, the WTB Vulpine is a race-focused gravel tire designed for speed. Tightly spaced center knobs form a nearly uninterrupted centerline that decreases rolling resistance, and the rest of the tread is packed with short knobs to further promote efficiency and minimize punctures. Based on rider feedback, WTB just announced a wider 40mm version for those seeking even more comfort and traction.

$69.95-$76.95 / Details

Pearl Izumi Expedition Pro Shoes

Replacing the GravelX shoe, the new Pearl Izumi Expedition Pro is a stiff and lightweight gravel/cross-country shoe with mountain bike-inspired protective elements. It has two BOA dials, a carbon sole, and TPU toe, heel bumpers, and a stomp plate. The Expedition PRO is offered in unisex sizing and ranges from sizes 39-49 with half sizes from 42.5-46.5.

$260 / Details

Wolf Tooth Echo Lock-on Grips

The new Wolf Tooth Echo Lock-on Grips are said to be suitable for anything from cross-country to enduro. They are made with a soft and durable 20A rubber with a diagonal pattern for grip in all conditions. An anodized aluminum collar secures the grips in place and comes in eight different colors that match up with Wolf Tooth’s massive lineup of accessories and components.

$29.95 / Details

In Conversation

Exchanges and ideas that caught our attention in the site’s conversation section…

e-bikes vs. e-MTB vs. marketing

The subject of e-bikes is a contentious one, even among our team. In Cass’ latest piece, where he broaches the subject of e-bikepacking—something we haven’t posted about to date—there’s a lively discussion taking place. A reader mentioned, “e-MTBs are the fastest growing segment of the bike industry. By and large, the majority of these bikes are not going to be used for commuting or touring,” which is a statement that resonated with a couple of us, as does Cass’ response, “I think the non mtb-ebike market is full of potential and shouldn’t be dismissed. There are all kinds of amazing town bikes and cargo bikes out that can create meaningful change.” What do you think? Leave a comment in the conversation below…

Around the Community

News from around the bikepacking world…

The Scale of Hope

In Patagonia’s latest film, former White House climate advisor Molly Kawahata reflects on her time in the Obama Administration, her personal struggle with mental health, and her love of alpine climbing to create a positive vision of how we can respond to the climate crisis.

Events Starting Soon

What to watch this weekend and bikepacking events starting soon…

Vermont Super 8

The Vermont Super 8 is a self-supported bikepacking adventure following unmaintained roads, pathways, and singletrack. Riders have three mileage options: the 260-mile North Lobe, the 380-mile South Lobe, or the 640-mile Full 8. The route contains every kind of terrain surface you can imagine exists in the Green Mountain State. The grand depart takes off from Montpelier this morning at 8:00am. Follow along live here.

Utah Mixed Epic

Back for its third year, the 2022 “Hot Lap” edition of the Utah Mixed Epic will feature a start and end in beautiful Moab, Utah. This year’s route will traverse deserts, canyons, and mountain ranges of the southeast portion of the state. The grand depart takes off this morning at 10 a.m, and you can follow along live here.

…and many more!

Several other events are going on this weekend, including the Cannonball 550 (Kansas), The High Plains Drifter (Colorado), North Central Washington 250 (Washington), Bohemia Divide (Czech Republic), and more. Find them all on our events calendar.

Wish We Were Here

Shedding a little light on a route one of us is dreaming about riding at the moment…

Justin McKinley (@jjjjustin): Utah

When folks think about autumn, pumpkin spice lattes and beautiful fall colors are typically top of mind. Autumn is also a perfect time to get into the desert when the days are enjoyably hot and nights are pleasantly cool. Two routes in Utah are are currently calling me: Peaks & Plateaus and A Swell Night Out. If you’re reading this on the Friday it’s posted, I’m currently riding the Utah Mixed Epic, which includes sections of both routes. It always amazes me how certain regions appear inhospitable and rugged from afar but immersing yourself in them reveals resources in the most unlikely landscapes.

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