Interbike Dirt Demo 2017 – Final days in the desert
Originally posted on September 20, 2017 at 14:33 pmInterbike will be moving to Reno next year, and Outdoor Demo will be at Northstar resort, so these last two days at Bootleg Canyon were slightly bittersweet. In theory, I like the desert, but in reality, my Irish genetics can’t deal with more than a couple days of the dry heat before I start feeling like a piece of beef jerky.
The final Dirt Demo at Bootleg Canyon was a quiet affair, the first day was sparsely attended, the second days only slightly more so. We didn’t find much new to write about, but here are a few things that caught my eye
Shimano XC5 GRAVEL shoe
Yes, this is being pitched as a gravel specific shoe. Yes, one of the colorways is the same as the similar Giro model. I found both those a little odd, too. Put that aside and let’s check them out.
Built on a wider last than Shimano’s standard road or performance mountain bike shoes, the XC5 is a 7/12 on Shimano’s stiffness scale. The soles use a carbon reinforcement and Michelin rubber, and can accept cleats up front if needed.
The lace system can be tightened independently at the top and bottom for customizing the fit with a simple tensioning system. There is a women’s model with a different last and purplish/pink trim.
$150, you should be able to find them for sale as you read this.
Skratch Nutrition Bars
Skratch hydration products are an office favorite, so we were stoked to try a few flavors of this new bar.
Cherry Pistachio, Ginger Miso (and one other I didn’t write down), expect these in October. Designed to be shelf stable for one year, but they don’t taste or feel like something that can sit on a shelf that long. Not too chewy, not too sweet, just right for a snack that tastes more like real food.
Henty Enduro Backpack
Not really a backpack, but more of a big hip pack, the Enduro Backpack can carry a 3 liter bladder and enough tools and food for a full day out. Bucking the treads of ultralight materials, this pack has the look and feel of a sturdy military-issue pack.
$110 with no bladder, it is a pretty good deal as well. Expect it to ship soon.
We’ve got a few bikes to talk about as well, but overall things were quiet (and HOT) out in the desert.