Lazer, Gloworm, Jamis - Interbike 2014
Not a name synonymous with mountain biking, Belgian manufacturer Lazer recently delivered Manon Carpenter's bonce to World Championship Gold and also protect the rest of the Madison/Saracen Team brains. Lazer say they are developing an all new 'Enduro Specific' helmet for 2016 with help from the team but for the moment we have the Ultrax which is aimed towards Trail Riding.
This Ultrax helmet features Lazers' own AutoFit retention system. AutoFit connects the rear basket to a front head belt to give even tension all around your noggin. Automatic adjustment to fit using a spring hidden in the foam structure of the helmet. The system has a more relaxed feel than a normal helmet because of the 360 degree tension whilst still offering the retention required. The Ultrax has 23 vents, a built in Micro-USB rechargeable LED and weighs 290g. US pricing is around $115. Matt White or Black, Cyan Blue, Flash Orange or Green Camo shown.
Also on the Lazer booth was this super lightweight Armor soft-shell helmet which weighs in at a measly 270g. It comes in a range of colours including this bonkers bright orange and could become a popular choice for the park-rats and dirt jumpers. The next model up is the Armor DLX which has fabric finishes, leather straps and a super easy to use magnetic Magic Buckle. The wood-grain effect Street DLX carries the same shape and fit as the Armor, but has a hard shell for more extreme use, this weighs in at 450g. Three wood effects to suit any cabinet-makers needs and also a Chrome or Gold Chrome finish for pimps. For 2016 Lazer say they are developing a piss-pot style lid with a modified AutoFit system.
Gloworm Lights
The Auckland based company had their small but high quality range of lights on offer including one that spent the whole show submerged in water. All the units are fully CNC machined, waterproof and shockproof. 1, 2 and 3 bulb models are available giving out 950, 1800 and 2200 lumens respectively. Lights not including batteries are 58g, 80g and 110g and Gloworm say they have the best Weight:Lumen:Price ratio on the market. US Prices are $199, $269 and $369. Each light is supplied with a GoPro style helmet mount, a nifty quick release handlebar mount, remote switch and head-strap.
Jamis
For 2015 Jamis have the Dakar AMT, based on their XCT trail bike, but beefed up to follow current trends. 150mm travel from Rockshox and 27.5" American Classic Wide Lightning wheels slowed down by Guide brakes. Its ready to hit the enduro race scene with the KS LEV and SRAM 1x11 but with the 67.5 head angle you might be looking for an angleset before you get to the start line. Coming in 4 sizes the AMT Pro hits the shelves at $4799, with lower price point models arriving at $3599 and $2599
I've always been a sucker for steel hardtails, and this Dragon Pro should deliver as the Jamis boasts over 30 years building steel. Constructed with a Reynolds 853 tubeset, and assembled with 120mm Fox Float forks, medium sized WTB KOM wheelset. With a relatively slack 68 head angle for a hardtail, stick a single ring on the front and you have a great off-the-peg winter hack machine.
Ah that's better.
lol