2012 gift guide and staff picks – Karl’s picks
Originally posted on December 14, 2012 at 12:48 pmBy the Dirt Rag staff
This is our first attempt at a holiday gift guide, and, in typical Dirt Rag fashion, we had to do it our way. We’ll share a dirty little secret with you: most magazines’ gift/buyer’s guides are not created based on the recommendations of riders, but by the wants and desires of advertisers.
That’s not how we roll. Instead, we asked each staffer to select two items that they had experience with and would wholeheartedly recommend to fellow a mountain biker. Real riders, honest recommendations, realistic prices—the way it should be.
Each day for the next two weeks we’ll be sharing a different staffer’s choices for their favorite gear of the year. Today’s picks are from Quality Manager and Archivist Karl Rosengarth.
Time X-ROC S pedals – $135
I run Time ATAC pedals because I love their smooth and predictable cleat engagement and release, even in muddy conditions. I’m also a fan of Time’s 5 degree angular, and 6mm of lateral float. Recently, I fell in love with the additional platform provided by Time’s X-ROC S pedals. Suddenly, my five pairs of “non-platform” Time pedals seem ripe for the auction block.
Uvex XP CC helmet – $99
The Uvex XP CC is the go-to lid of a guy who owns 11 bicycle helmets, and that’s saying something. In addition to saying that the guy has more helmets than any man needs, it says that Uvex XP CC helmet is the most comfortable and best-fitting of the bunch. Thanks in large part to the adjustable retention system that wraps 360 around the noggin. Then there’s fact that the buckle has a ratcheting slider for micro-adjusting strap tension. Just right, Goldilocks. Bonus points for the mesh bug screen behind the front-facing vents. Well worth the asking price.
Mulberry Gap mountain bike getaway
Nestled in the Chattahoochee National Forest north of Ellijay, Georgia, Mulberry Gap is a mountain biker’s paradise. Imagine riding top-notch trails right from your cabin door after downing a home-cooked breakfast to fuel your adventure. How do you beat that? Here’s how: stuff your face with the scrumptious evening meal that’s waiting for you. Top it of with a dip in the hot tub, and repeat as necessary.