Welcome back to the first episode of Geek Warning for 2025. There’s plenty to discuss with the geeks having had a few weeks to dwell on their thoughts.
Within, you’ll hear discussion over the industry woes continuing, some well-known brands suffering, and some big related moves. Switching things up, SRAM recently got approval for a patent related to a UDH equivalent of a brake mount. As the geeks discuss, it’s certainly something to watch out for.
On Ronan’s mind is whether we’re about to see a new wave of pro-only race bikes, where the viability of selling the things is wholly ignored in favour of just serving sponsored riders the next advantage. The geeks reason how this would sit with increased discussion over reducing peloton speeds.
There’s some fresh tech from Garmin, Wolf Tooth, No6 (No.22’s composites brand), and Core. Plus, there’s a naming quibble between Factor and Scarab Cycles.
Finally, Brad Copeland jumps on with Dave to answer a few mechanical questions from Escape members. Questions span from removing tight cranks, cleaning off grossly stuck-on bar tape, and whether fancy bottom brackets are worth the cash.
This episode is longer than usual, but we hope you enjoy the broad range of topics.
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Time stamps:
1:30 – Looking into 2025 as 2024 ended with some big industry woes (including GT, Rocky Mountain, Brompton, La Passione)
12:20 – Revelyst’s acquisition tells us that consolidation of brands will be a continuing trend in 2025
14:40 – SRAM gets patent approval for a brake equivalent of the UDH
21:30 – On our minds is that truly pro-focussed road bikes are on the way
38:00 – No.6 has a new Adventure fork and is selling them
39:55 – Core2 body temperature sensor continues to improve
41:30 – Garmin’s HRM-200 heart rate strap teases security-related changes ahead
43:20 – Wolf Tooth’s new IS52 Enve In-Route headset
44:00 – Colombian custom brand Scarab Cycles claims Factor is infringing on a trademark
49:00 – Ask a Wrench: Removing ultra-tight cranks
1:01:00 – Ask a Wrench: Removing manky and stuck-on bartape
1:11:00 – Ask a Wrench: Are premium T47 bottom brackets worth it?
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