MTB Pedal Options
Ever wonder the difference between different pedal styles for mountain bikes? There are seemingly endless options available, so we're here to break things down for you.
Flats: Flats are any pedal that doesn't involve clipping in. These are great for learning new skills on a mountain bike or commuting since you can easily put your foot down if you need to. Flats feel very different in corners and on jumps than clipless pedals, which is why some riders prefer these.
Clipless: Clipless pedals are any pedal that you need to clip your foot into. Yes, we know that's confusing, but there's actually a reason for this misnomer. Back in the day, clip-in pedals referred to that old-school system where you slid your foot into a cage attached to one side of the pedal. Clipless pedals eliminated the cage, so yes, you clip into clipless pedals. Clipless pedals are more efficient than flats since you can pull up on the pedal as well as push down. They're also great on chunky descents since your foot stays locked into the exact same position on the pedal no matter how rowdy it gets.
Crankbrothers: Crankbrothers clipless pedals are all built on their Eggbeater platform. The Eggbeater is a solid XC pedal since it's their lightest option and features four-sided entry, making these some of the easiest pedals on the market to clip into. The Candy, Mallet, and Mallet DH are the progressively more beefy pedals from this brand. Each features a gradually larger platform in addition to the built-in Eggbeater system. Crankbrothers are known for shedding mud exceptionally well and having a little extra float compared to Shimano pedals. Float is the movement that you get before unclipping, and it means these pedals ride a little more like a flat pedal than Shimano SPDs do.
Shimano: Shimano doesn't have the same float as Crankbrothers, offering a more locked-in feel instead. This is a pro when it comes to putting down power or feeling like you're more locked into the bike, and a con if you like the feel of a flat pedal or something with a little more float. Like Crankbrothers, Shimano builds all of their pedals on the same clipping mechanism, called the SPD. The Trail and Saint are Shimano's pedals with a platform built around that clipping mechanism.
If you're new to this whole pedal thing, this might seem like a lot of information. Stop by or give us a call at (303)444-2453 if you have any questions or to check out our selection of flat and clipless pedals!
BCS Back to School Specials!
Get ready to ride into the new school season with style and savings at BCS! Whether you're a student, parent, or educator, our Back-to-School Sale is here to electrify your commute and make getting around town a breeze. We're offering 30% off all in-stock e-bikes from August 16 to August 30! Zip through campus or cruise along Boulder's scenic routes on the latest electric bikes, designed for both efficiency and fun. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to snag your dream e-bike at an unbeatable price!
Oh yeah, and we're keeping our Oakley helmet sale going through the end of the month. Stop by and pick up a stylish, comfortable, safe helmet for 50% off, or snag one for free with any bike purchase over $1,000!
Bike of the Week
Giant Explore E+ 4 STA
OVERVIEW
One of the e-bikes we have on sale this week is the Giant Explore E+ 4 STA. This bike is a reliable commuter, with a 60mm fork and Giant Crosscut gravel tires that offer a smooth ride even on rough pavement or gravel. The step-through frame design makes it easier to mount and dismount even while carrying bags or panniers.
The SyncDrive Sport motor and EnergyPak provide a smooth, seamless boost of power that allows you to cover greater distances and conquer any climb! This bike also features rack mounts that make it easier than ever for you to customize your cargo capacity. We have two of these left at our South Boulder shop in a size large and tons of other e-bikes available for 30% off! Stop in or give us a call to find out more.
What's the Deal with Tubeless Tires?
Tubeless tires have seemingly taken over every type of biking, from road to gravel to MTB. But what are the advantages of tubeless systems, anyway?
There are three main advantages to tubeless systems. The first is weight. If you don't have to lug two heavy tubes around, you have less rolling weight in your wheels. It's that simple.
Second, you can run lower pressure in tubeless tires. That means better grip and a more comfortable ride. Lower tire pressures allow your tires to absorb some of the chatter off the road or trail. This does come at the cost of pedal efficiency, but for most riders, a smoother ride is more valuable than a few extra watts.
The third and most important, advantage of running tubeless tires is their ability to seal small punctures. Instead of a tube, these tires are filled with sealant, a sticky liquid that will fill most small punctures with ease. For larger issues, you can carry a tire plug kit that includes plugs that interact with sealant to close up larger holes.
The most common flats to get on tubed tires are pinch flats, which are completely eliminated when you make the switch. We usually recommend you ride with a tire plug kit, some kind of tire inflation, and a spare tube just in case. At the end of the day, a tube can repair even the largest gashes, and it's good to have just in case.
If you're curious about tubeless tires, stop in and ask our mechanics about making the switch. Most rims these days are tubeless-ready, which means all you need to convert your wheels is a new valve and some sealant. For other setups, rim tape may be needed.
We are Hiring!
Boulder Cycle Sport is hiring! The COVID-19 Pandemic has not been an easy one for bikeshops, but we have made it our mission to serve our community to the best of our ability no matter what. Are you interested in working with us? We have positions open across all levels from Service Manager to Sales Associate. Check out our website for all the details on the application!
We've expanded hours at both our North and South Boulder locations for the summer! Both locations are open 9 AM to 5 PM all weekend. Boulder Cycle Sport North will open at 8 AM every Wednesday for service drop-offs and hang out after the Wednesday Morning Velo Ride. Stop by or give us a call today!
