Skip to main content

Blackspire MonoVeloce WP chainring


BLACKSPIRE ARE ONE of several companies producing single chainrings inspired by SRAM's outwardly simple but actually super-cunning and extremely effective chain-retaining alternating narrow-wide tooth design.

Despite Canadian machined manufacture it's 35$ to 50$ cheaper than official SRAM spares, with prices ranging from 40$ to 75$ depending on size. It holds the chain securely without obvious extra noise or drag, and wear life is good. This 30t version is offset inboard to clear the crank spider, and bolt receivers are machined into the ring to simplify tightening. Green, red and blue anodised versions are also available.

PRICE 65$ (30t/104mm BCD)





Popular posts from this blog

ENVE M50 29" Wheels

Utah based company ENVE have been making drool-worthy carbon components for some years now. Despite the fact that carbon rims are becoming more and more common on mountain bikes these days, you can guarantee that ENVE wheels will be a talking point when someone is eyeing off a steed. Instantly, the big bold logos on each rim scream "fast", "light" and to some extent, "expensive" The kids call this 'bling'.

DRC X-Monitor SP1 lap timer

While smartphone apps such as Strava can be a useful way to keep tabs on your mountain bike rides, sometimes you just can’t beat the simplicity and instant feedback that a good old-fashioned stopwatch style lap timer provides.

Scott Scale 950

The Scale 950 uses the now traditional-for-cross-country 29er wheels to excellent effect, with a fast but fun character that's happy racing or railing.

CANYON NERVE AL 8.0

  S ince their entry into the UK market a few years ago, Canyon have made a name for themselves as purveyors of well-made bikes that exhibit often extraordinary value. The secret (or catch, depending on your point of view) is that the brand don’t have dealers – they ship bikes directly to your door.

Formula CR3 brakes

The CR3 features a cartridge-type master, which improves power and modulation, plus it is super simple to service: The self-enclosed unit threads directly into the lever body. I took apart our test set and had it back together and bled in 10 minutes with no special tools. Like Formula’s RO brakes, the caliper pistons are actually oval, making more surface area–and thus, more power–than round pistons, but simpler than a four-piston system. The CR3 is best suited for aggressive trail riding.