Mountain Biking by 198

The Square Taper vs. External Bearing Bottom Bracket Debate

Some time ago, on our local board we had a "discussion" on the pros and cons of square taper bottom brackets vs. external bearing bottom brackets. The mountain biking crowd has basically split into two camps. 1. Square Taper Devotees 2. External Bearing (X-Type) Riders

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Powder Coated Shimano XT Cranks

Fred at Wolfhound Cycles hooked me up with a set of sandblasted and powder coated XT cranks to go on the Terremoto. The black powder coat matches the frame exactly. I really couldn't have asked for a better crankset for this frame.

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2008 Sea Otter Classic - Syncros Components

I run the Syncros Bulk bars, so I am really excited to see new products in the Syncros line. I also think I have found the pedals that I have been looking for. Those will work out great on the 6" bike for DH/FR duty. Their "grunge" graphics will take some getting used to, but they are already starting to grow on me.

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New Shimano Component Groups - SLX and LX

Say hello to the new component group from Shimano...SLX. Set to replace the Hone and LX line for mountain biking, the SLX is marketed as a heavier duty all mountain group for the Shimano line. So far from the pictures, it appears that Shimano mixed the previous LX and Hone together and added a new look along with the some features that were added to the XTR line. The rear derailleur shows some XTR-like characteristics. This line will still fall below the XT line in price and is designed around the growing popularity of 5" and 6" trail bikes.

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