Previous Page
Urban Velo
Next Page

SRAM Force CX1

The past couple of seasons have seen an explosion of single ring, 1x setups on mountain and ‘cross bikes. Utilizing much of the technology from their 1x mountain groups SRAM has announced Force CX1, a 1x11 group bound to serious commuters and all-round riders besides the cyclocross racers it is squarely aimed at. Homespun 1x systems have always required a chain retention device of some sort, and even then can suffer from thrown chains or excessive chain slap. SRAM uses a chainring with taller teeth and an alternating narrow/wide tooth pattern and a clutch rear deraileur to keep the chain engaged and control excess movement. Unlike the mountain version, the Force CX1 uses the same cassette body as before, making the group compatible with the 10- or 11-speed wheels people already own. Chainrings are compatible with compact cranks and available in 38, 40, 42, 44 and 46 tooth sizes, and the group uses a SRAM 1170 11-26, 11-28 or 11-32 cassette. The group, sans brakes, is expected to retail for $1000. www.sram.com

The Kaneg Front Micro Pannier

The Kaneg front micro pannier is just big enough to hold six bottles and a rolled up blanket, and has a carrying strap for when you get to your destination. It’s simple and easy to like—just enough room for a light picnic or day ride. www.kruschrhoades.com

Detroit Cargo Griswold Leather Frame Bag

At home in the fanciest office or swank restaurant, the Detroit Cargo Griswold frame bag is positioned for those more apt to down fancy cocktails than tallboys. The Griswold is made from thick vegetable tanned leather with hand burnished edges and antique brass hardware. There is a single pocket on the inside and out, with a removable shoulder strap for when it’s not attached to the toptube. Give it a few years use and this bag is destined to show wear like a classic professor’s briefcase. Available in three colors for $220, each bag is hand sewn in Detroit MI. www.detroitcargo.com

Double O Bike Light

Most lights are easily removable to make taking them with you a reality, and the Double O takes it an extra step with a magnetic fastening system. The light bodies snap together when off the bike into a single unit, and the hole is large enough to pass a u-lock through if you’re looking to fairly inconspicuously and securely leave them behind. The lights are USB rechargeable, with a 2 hour steady and 4 hour flashing runtime, with 80 lumens of front and 45 lumens of rear output. The front and rear pair was crowdfunded at a $130 pre-order level. www.double-o-light.com

All-City