Arid Carbon: The Ultra Gravel Bike
Riding a bike in an arid environment, regardless of terrain, can be seriously demanding. Bike and rider alike may be pushed to their very limits. The extremes of temperature, poor grip, and general exposure make it a significant challenge… yet thankfully it’s often incredibly exhilarating too.

Here at Mondraker we thrive on that sensation. We live and work in one of Europe’s most arid regions, surrounded by dry, rocky, loose terrain where grip is often non-existent. Those feelings, that experience, led us to create in perhaps the most appropriate place possible our best gravel bike imaginable: the new Mondraker Arid Carbon.

Expanding the Territory
Arid Carbon is our new gravel bike. A bike that’s here to expand our presence in the segment where the DUSTY e-Gravel bike has already carved its own niche. We’re simply, organically, growing the range, because at Mondraker gravel biking isn’t just the latest thing… it’s become an intrinsic part of our identity.

Arid Carbon, our first non-assist gravel bike, manages to borrow some design cues from its e-Bike cousin while managing to keep itself well out of the other’s shadow. In a segment made up of riders with very different ideas about just what makes a great gravel bike, we specifically designed Arid Carbon to be the mould breaker, the bike to bridge that gap between differing ideologies thanks to its enormous capacity for adaptation. Because when it comes down to it, gravel biking is simply a very personal discipline.

Riders have always adapted their bikes, based on many different factors, to be exactly what they want them to be. So that’s why, when designing the Arid Carbon, we kept in mind just how diverse our field of riders would be and likewise how varied their take on ‘gravel’ would be. We specifically designed Arid Carbon to be able to adapt to just about anyone.

The Devil’s in the Detail
We’ve really gone to town on the details. Arid Carbon has HHG internal cable guides to facilitate maintenance and keep the frame lines really clean, especially under the stem, and the UDH derailleur hanger provides the stiffness and precision you need when pedalling hard over rough terrain. 1x drivetrain only, the bottom bracket is threaded for maximum stiffness, and once again, ease of maintenance.

The frame and fork combined provide mounting points for up to six water-bottles, and generous frame and fork dimensions take up to 50mm wide tyres with clearance to spare. The bike also features the all-new Mondraker ‘Carry-On’ system.

Carry-on: Next Gen Hand Luggage
Riding the Arid Carbon is like writing your own screenplay. Racing, adventure, singletrack or the daily commute, Arid Carbon is going to be there with you whatever the script; and when you need to take something with you you’ve got internal frame storage for the first time ever on a Mondraker. Whether it be basic tools, a bite to eat, documents or clothing, Mondraker’s ‘Carry-On’ system has you covered. Accessible through a watertight, dustproof cover on the downtube, you can carry the essentials safely, securely and quietly.

Three custom-made, internal yet easily accessible, double-lapped zipper bags keep things neat and tidy and mean that you won’t need additional packs or accessories for those shorter trips. One of the bags is specifically designed to carry a spare tube and tyre levers. Another for a mini-pump or CO2 cannisters, and the third for a multitool… or… you can use them for whatever fits your needs better on the day.

Key Points
• StealthAirCarbonframe
• StealthAirCarbonfork
• Carry-Onframestorage
• Under-stemHHGinternalcableguides • 1xdrivetrainonly
• UDHderailleurhanger
• BBT47bottombracket
• Upto50ctyreclearance
• 12x142mmrearaxle
• FlatMountbrakecallipermountsfrontandback
• Multiplewaterbottlemounts
• 5differentsizes

Better Fit, Better Geometry
A key feature of Arid Carbon is the adoption of 5 different sizes, the better to cover all types of rider. The new ML size goes beyond just adding a size to the traditional S, M, L, XL lineup; rather it reduces the jump between sizes while also making the smallest model a little less rangy and the largest a little more spacious. As a result, we’ve not only made Arid Carbon fit riders on the extremes better than ever before, we’ve also made fine tuning your fit better for everyone by having smaller steps between sizes. Arid Carbon is the latest Mondraker to take this step, after the recently released SLY and the latest version of the Crafty Carbon.

In fitting with the Mondraker badge on the headtube, Arid Carbon adopts innovative geometry stats with generous reach figures and stem lengths of between 60mm and 90mm depending on frame size, a 70° head angle and 425mm chainstays. The riding position is extremely comfortable and confidence inspiring thanks in part to the new ONOFF handlebar range, the result of intensive development over the last 12 months. Strength, posture and handling have all been refined.

Putting Down the Power
The pleasure of driving yourself forward. Nothing but your legs, your strength, your endurance. At a time when e-Bikes seem to be taking over, bikes like Arid Carbon take us back to the origins of cycling, of unadulterated fun and freedom to roam, detached from complications and trouble.

Arid Carbon is unmistakeably a Mondraker in every way, yet with its own character thanks in part to its distinctive and technologically advanced rear triangle design. Likewise, more than 10 years of development of Forward Ge- ometry shine through when riding the Arid Carbon; that trademark blend of aggressiveness, control and fun that mark every Mondraker regardless of discipline.

Arid Carbon is an origins bike, a return to pure cycling, yet offers all the advantages of high-tech frame construction and quality components. Arid Carbon plants Mondraker firmly in the world of gravel riding.

Four Builds – All Fast
Arid Carbonis available in four different builds: Arid Carbon, Arid Carbon R, Arid Carbon RR, and the range-topping Arid Carbon RR SL which is also available as a frame only option. All four builds share the same Stealth Air Carbon frame and fork, and the same 400mm long, 27.2mm diameter Onoff S9 seatpost. Whichever build you go for you’ll be on a heater from the very first time you turn a crank.

Canadian SRPs
Arid Carbon RR SL $12,999.00
Arid Carbon RR $8,999.00
Arid Carbon R $6,999.00
Arid Carbon $4,999.00
Frameset Arid Carbon RR SL $2,799.00

Read more here.

Paired with MAHLE X20 or X30 motors, the system boasts a weight of just 2.5 kilograms with the X20, generating as much torque as a 55 Nm mid-drive. The XS System is compatible with the full MAHLE Ecosystem and is already available in the market.

“Our passion for innovation and commitment to cyclists inspire us to continually push boundaries. With the XS system, we have distilled the e-bike down to its most essential elements, delivering unmatched value,” said Jochen Sommer, General Manager of MAHLE SmartBike Systems. Battery integration has long posed a challenge for bike manufacturers due to size and assembly complexities. MAHLE’s XS system solves this by offering a streamlined e-bike setup powered entirely by a 1kg external battery, which conveniently fits in a standard water bottle cage. In addition, the newly developed Smart Motor Controller can be mounted inside or outside the frame, allowing for minimalistic, unobtrusive integration—making it possible to use standard muscular bike frames to create fully functional eBikes.

Without sacrificing performance, the XS system is comprised of only the essential components: the eX1 External Battery, XS Smart Controller, X20 or X30 Hub Drive Unit, and a Torque or PAS (Pedal Assist) Sensor. This minimalism reduces the system’s environmental footprint by downsizing components and simplifying the system’s architecture. Furthermore, its ease of maintenance and broad range of accessories provide limitless customization opportunities.

The eX1 battery fits perfectly for daily use, offering over 170Wh of capacity. “In our research, we found that even less than 100Wh are sufficient for most daily activities —urban commuting, short rides—so we focused on optimizing for what riders need. The result is XS: a light, efficient system that perfectly suits everyday use,” said Marco de la Serna, Head of Product, Strategy, and Business Development at MAHLE SmartBike Systems.

Additionally, the eX1 battery serves as a Range Extender for any existing MAHLE X20 or X30 system and as a power bank to charge devices such as phones or laptops thanks to a USB-C port integrated in the Energy Hub charger, which comes along with the system.

The XS system also integrates with the expansive X-series accessory line, enhancing both performance and user experience. Customization is nearly limitless, with optional accessories like the Duo, eShifters, and Pulsar ONE, among others, available for added functionality.

Users can also connect to the MAHLE Digital Ecosystem via their eBike, laptop, smartphone, or Apple Watch, opening the door to the present and future of the smartbike revolution. The MAHLE digital ecosystem enables a multitude of functionalities, providing a perfect symbiosis between user and eBike.

Using the system is very intuitive. With an intuitive control, riders can power on the system, switch between assistance modes, and monitor battery levels directly from the interface atop the eX1 External Battery. The system also offers automatic assistance, enhancing ease of use. 

Read more here.

Built with an impact-resistant, scratch-proof polycarbonate lens and a featherweight Grilamid TR-90 frame, the Moab defines rugged durability without added weight. At just 31 grams, the Moab is the perfect choice for extended adventures, whether you’re hitting the road for a long ride or setting off on a trail run.

“Moab was created to meet the needs of athletes who want both performance and comfort wherever their adventures take them,” said Joe Earley, owner of Tifosi Optics. “An easy lens-swapping system and sleek design make the Moab a versatile choice for all-day activity,” Earley continued.

Foggy lenses can frustrate any athlete, but the Moab combats this with four well-placed vents along the bottom and sides of the frame, promoting airflow to keep vision clear. The Moab’s adjustable hydrophilic rubber ear and nose pads grip even tighter when exposed to moisture, ensuring a secure and stable fit, whether you’re navigating rough terrain or pushing yourself through intense workouts.

Moab is available in four distinct models: An interchangeable Blackout Moab that includes Smoke, AC Red and Clear lenses, a distinctive interchangeable Plum Passion Moab  with Clarion Deep Purple, AC Red and Clear lenses, a Sahara Stash with Clarion Gold, AC Red and Clear lenses, and finally the Satin Vapor Moab with Clarion Red Fototec lens.

Tifosi’s Fototec lenses automatically adjust to changing light conditions, while Tifosi’s Clarion lenses feature a water-repellent coating to protect against enhanced moisture buildup.

All Moab models are affordably starting at $79.95 US/$99.95 CDN and are available online and through select retail partners.

About Tifosi Optics
Tifosi is the Italian word for Super-fan. You are exactly who we make our eyewear for. Our mission is to empower you to “Live Your Passion” by providing technically advanced eyewear to enthusiasts of all sports and outdoor activities. We design and rigorously our product to enhance your sport whether you’re running a 5k, riding your first century, or playing 18 holes on Sunday. Tifosi defines us. We are enthusiastic about our product, our sport, our fun and our consumers. We are moms, dads, coaches, players, volunteers, survivors, teams and families. Tifosi – Live Your Passion. http://www.tifosioptics.com

To keep your belongings organised, the bag has a key hook and an internal mesh pocket. What’s more, it has an integrated cable channel in the centre of the bag, allowing you to run a USB charging cable (for a GPS or other device) while maintaining a sleek, stylish look.

With dimensions designed to maximise carrying volume while minimising the risk of touching the bag with your knees while riding, the Z Adventure T1 is the ideal choice for cyclists looking to carry their gear without compromising comfort or the handling of their bike.

Specifications:
• Type: Top-tube frame bags
• Material: Polyester 420D TPU
• Dimensions : 220 mm x 50 mm x 100 mm
• Weight: 150 g
• Mounting: Self gripping straps
• Capacity: 1L
• Closing: Waterproof zip
• Maximum load: 1kg

REF: 7015
MSRP: 39,95€

Benefits:
• Cable access: Allowing the rider to charge their GPS, phone, lights…
• Waterproof: Welded bag and waterproof zip.
• Universal mounting: Using self gripping straps.
• Storage: Internal mesh pocket and key hook
• Lightweight: Lightweight, resistant material.

Z Adventure T1 Bolt
This «bolt on» bag is compatible with road and gravel bikes fitted with threaded holes on the top horizontal tube, as long as these holes face upwards. By eliminating the risk of abrasion from rubbing straps, this bag protects your bike’s paintwork and frame. The Z Adventure T1 Bolt is easily fitted to your bike using the screws supplied.

Specifications:
• Type: Top-tube frame bags
• Material: Polyester 420D TPU
• Dimensions: 220 mm x 50 mm x 100 mm
• Weight: 150 g
• Mounting: M5 x 16mm screws (included)
• Capacity: 1L
• Closing: Waterproof zip
• Maximum load: 1kg

REF: 7016
MSRP: 39,95€

Benefits:
• Bolt mounting: Multi-position bolt mounting (two screws included)

For more information pls visit here.

Both bikes share Trek’s IsoSpeed comfort tech to smooth bumps in the road and keep adventurers riding stronger longer. Plus, both gravel bikes have frame designs and mounts for Trek’s all-new Adventure Bags, including top tube, frame, and the more aero-efficient triangle bag that’s tucked out of the wind.

Checkmate SLR Gravel Race Bike
Checkmate is Trek’s lightest gravel bike ever, with premium 800 Series OCLV Carbon, top-tier components, and new lightweight tube shape technology that help drop a whole pound off the previous Checkpoint SLR model.

Trek’s fastest gravel bike ever
Checkmate is Trek’s fastest gravel bike ever, with the same new Full System Foil aero tube shapes and aero one-piece bar/stem as Madone Gen 8. Plus, Checkmate’s new Gravel Race geo puts riders in a more aggressive and efficient riding position. Together, these features help make Checkmate 5 minutes and 54 seconds faster than Checkpoint SLR on the 200-mile course at Unbound (at 200W).

New lightweight and aero one-piece bar/stem
Checkmate features the same ultra-light and aero one-piece carbon bar/stem as Madone Gen 8, with hoods that are 3cm narrower than the drops so riders can choose between a more aero or more controlled position and enjoy more ergonomic comfort on the tops.

Room for up to 45mm tires (as measured)
Checkmate comes stock with 38mm tires but can fit up to 45mm tires to roll quick over tougher race or training courses.

Customizable in Project One 
The best way to get Checkmate is through Project One for the perfect fit, parts, and color. Plus, the new Project One ICON Raw Lithos scheme brings breathtaking earthen hues exclusively to Checkmate customers.

Checkpoint SL Gen 3 gravel bike
Checkpoint SL Gen 3 offers carbon gravel performance and features reimagined tube shapes and 500 Series OCLV Carbon that keeps things lightweight, snappy, and economical. 

Optimized storage
Checkpoint SL Gen 3’s new frame design has more room to fit taller bottles with bags and offers more internal storage. Plus, it has mounts galore for top tube, frame, and triangle bags; fork storage; and front and rear racks.

New confidence-inspiring details
Checkpoint SL Gen 3’s new Gravel Endurance geometry has a higher and shorter reach that’s more comfortable and capable for all-day gravel rides. Plus, riders get a GR Elite handlebar (on SL 5 and 6) or carbon GR Pro handlebar (on SL 7), which share a more comfortable drop shape and an increased flare of 6cm between hoods and drops for better control and confidence, no matter the terrain.

Room for up to 50mm tires (as measured)
Checkpoint SL Gen 3 comes with 42mm tires but can fit bigger, beefier gravel tires to roll over the chunky stuff.

Compatible with dropper post and suspension fork
The new Checkpoint SL Gen 3 is dropper post compatible and adds suspension fork compatibility with up to 40mm of travel* so customers can enjoy even more capability, comfort, and confidence.

*Available on all sizes except XS

Canadian SRPs
Checkpoint SL 5 AXS Gen 3 – $4,299.99
Checkpoint SL 6 AXS Gen 3 – $5,199.99
Checkpoint SL 7 AXS Gen 3 – $6,999.99
Checkpoint SLR 7 AXS – $11,399.99
Checkpoint SLR 9 AXS – $16,999.99

Checkpoint SL Gen 3 and Checkmate SLR are available globally at select Trek retailers and online here.

Full Mount Resilience
Attaching to frames with the UDH interface, the Full Mount RED XPLR AXS rear derailleur eliminates variables by centering on the rear axle for a precise fit and superior impact resistance. It’s simpler, stronger, with no need for a hanger.

Our lightest gravel groupset
Not just more resilient and precise. At 2488 g, RED XPLR AXS is over 200 g lighter than the previous generation.

Full Mount Precision
Fast, precise shifting with simple setup. The Full Mount derailleur removes hanger variances, so RED XPLR AXS brings perfect shifting with no adjustment screws.

The gravel gearing sweet spot, perfected
Range for any course, without searching for the right gear. RED XPLR AXS covers a huge 10-46 range with 13 speeds so finding the right cadence is effortless.

Effortless braking
One-finger braking from anywhere, with less effort. RED brakes require 80% less effort than before when braking from the hoods, and 33% less effort from the drops. More power and less hand fatigue means you’re in control on any surface.

Unrivaled chain management
The 1x-specific design of the RED XPLR AXS derailleur, coupled with the strongest clutch we’ve ever put into a gravel derailleur, keeps the chain where it needs to be. So you can push a little harder.

Keep the wheels turning
Magic Wheel isn’t actually magic, it just feels like it. The outer portion of the lower pulley is independent from the center, so it won’t jam from a stray stick.

Designed alongside RED XPLR AXS
The Hammerhead Karoo unlocks industry-leading maps and navigation, gravel-specific customizations, advanced connectedness, and the ability to completely control Karoo using the RED XPLR AXS Bonus Buttons.

Read more here.

The MOS UpLift utilizes two powerful supporting arms to help lower the rack up to two feet for easy loading as well as seamlessly retract your gear back onto the roof. This assisted lift rack supports up to 85lbs, making it ideal for e-bikes, but it’s also great for skis, kayaks and more.

Easy installation and compatibility with multiple roof rack accessories make the MOS UpLift a no-brainer. The MOS UpLiftTM can be installed on conventional crossbars, as long as they can support a minimum of 75 kg (165 lbs). The SRP is $1,099.95. A separate locking mechanism is also available for $82.95.

Read more here.

The specs on this electric mountain bike are impressive and at the heart of this trail-ready ride is TQ’s award-winning 250-watt HPR50 drive system with 50Nm of torque, and its unique harmonic pin-ring transmission. 

This compact lightweight motor delivers quiet, natural support to flatten climbs and pairs with a 360-Watt removable battery that’s neatly integrated in the down tube.

There are three power levels (Eco, Mid, High) that are easily accessed via a small controller switch on the handlebars and deliver noticeable assistance increases ranging from 13% to 70% of your watt output. 

The computer is mounted in the top tube of the frame and displays your ride data and battery charge etc. It also works with the Trek App which provides all kinds of data and customization options like tuning your ride with suspension settings and tire pressure recommendations based on your weight. The app also keeps track of your ride time and distance, as well as your routes. 

The best part of the app is that it also lets you tune the motor’s performance in each of the three modes for the amount of support and pedal-assist response, ranging from gradual to quick.

The bike is set up with a Fox Rhythm 36 Evolve Gloat air-spring front fork with 150mm of travel that’s matched to a Fox Performance Float X rear shock that offers 140mm of travel. 

A Bontrager Line dropper seatpost features 100-170mm of travel depending on the frame size and is controlled by a switch mounted on the left side of the handlebar cockpit. 

The drivetrain is comprised of a SRAM 12-speed wireless Eagle GX rear derailleur along with ASX POD wireless shifters. The 1 x 12 drivetrain features a 10-52 cassette matched with a 32-tooth front chain ring to provide a huge range of gearing options. The stopping power is also taken care of by SRAM with DB 8 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes.

The Bontrager Arvada saddle comes perched atop the dropper post and it features hollow chromoly rails. The stem, grips and 780mm-wide aluminum handlebars are also by Bontrager along with the 29-inch wheelset that features Boost spacing and thru axles. The tires, which are tubeless ready and include TLR sealant, are a big phat width of 2.5”. 

During the test I rode in Eco mode most of the time as it was all that was needed to tackle any climb in the same gearing that I’m used to. The feeling is like having an extra set of legs that allow you to ride the way you usually do, only better. When the HPR50 drive is assisting, there is no discernible noise coming from the motor – it’s quiet.

Long, sustained climbs were no longer leg burners as the Fuel EXe helped me up every incline without building up lactic acid in my legs. I was also able to talk and drink on climbs which can be tough in non-e-bike conditions.

I easily got in eight hours of ride time while in Eco mode, and still had about 20% of charge left. Charging was also easily done while the removeable battery is in the bike via a small port that has a rubber cover, and if you’re in a hurry a full charge only takes a few hours. An optional 160wh external battery offers 40% more range and fits in a standard bottle cage without any complicated wiring or special mounts.

The Fuel EXe was also very forgiving as the suspension efficiently absorbed the trail chatter and big hits. I was initially a bit concerned about the width of the handlebars, but that quickly faded away when the trail turned downhill. The extra stability that the bars offered was amazing and gave me more confidence to let it go on the descents. 

The wide Bontrager tires were also a nice benefit in the rougher parts of the trail as they just rolled over everything. The wider tires also helped in the technical sections by making it easier to roll through rock gardens and fields of baby head rocks.

Braking was easily managed with one finger as the SRAM DB8 hydraulics provide powerful stopping force that is easily modulated to allow for smooth braking in corners as well.

The braking is also important because even though the Fuel Exe isn’t as heavy as some other e-bikes, it still weighs in at 20.5 kg which can push you to higher speeds on descents if you aren’t watching your momentum. 

The SRAM wireless shifting was crisp and fast, and the shifter is large enough that I never missed a shift by missing the button. Gear changes even under power on climbs were also fast and smooth. 

The Fuel EXe GX AXS T-Type is a winner and the TQ motor is so smooth and quiet, you’ll forget that it’s an e-bike… except on the climbs. 

The SRP is $9,199.99 and for more information visit here.