Navigate New Terrain in the all-new SMITH Optics Pilot MTB Helmet

Take to the trails with confidence and comfort with the new Pilot MTB helmet from SMITH. Purpose-built for fine-tuned fit and ultimate integration with SMITH eyewear, the Pilot is designed for novice and emerging riders ready to tackle new terrain.

The trail-ready helmet features lightweight in-mold construction with extended rear shell coverage and wrapped edges for increased durability, and the Mips® Evolve Core Safety System, designed to reduce rotational forces caused by angled impacts to the head.

For added comfort while riding, the helmet features an adjustable dial fit system, a performance liner for comfort and sweat absorption, and 13 fixed vents for consistent airflow while riding.   For ultimate eyewear compatibility, the Pilot also features channels on the front and rear of the helmet for sunglass storage, as well as a fixed visor to reduce overhead glare. The addition of AirEvac technology maximizes airflow and prevents fogging when worn with performance eyewear and goggles.

The Pilot (MSRP $95 USD / $115 CDN / $125 AUS / £95 / €95 – Weight: 13 oz / 370 grams – Size M Mips®) is available in XS-XL beginning Spring 2026 at select specialty bike retailers worldwide and online at smithoptics.com.

Click here to purchase the Pilot MTB Helmet.

• Protection
  • Lightweight in-mold construction
  • Mips® Brain Protection System reduces rotational forces caused by angled impacts to the head
  • Complies with U.S. CPSC Safety Standard for bicycle helmets for persons aged 5 and older, as well as CE EN 1078, AS/NZ2063
• Fit / Integration
  • Adjustable dial fit system for a customized fit
  • Designed for ultimate integration with Smith performance eyewear for maximum comfort, venting, and storage convenience
• Features
  • 13 fixed vents for consistent airflow
  • Performance comfort lining
  • Lightweight, low-bulk single-layer webbing
  • Fixed visor
  • Weight (Size M, Mips®): 13 oz / 370 g

Rudy Project Raises the Bar for MTB Safety and Sustainability with the New Terraform, Terraform Pro, and Override

A Complete Off-Road System for Trail, Enduro, and E-MTB Riders; Certified High-Speed Protection, Rotational Impact Technology, Twiceme® Emergency Tracking, More than 60% Recycled Materials, and a Modular High-Performance Goggle

Rudy Project, Italian designers of sports performance eyewear and helmets, announces the release of the Terraform, Terraform Pro, and Override, a complete off-road system engineered for riders who demand safety, precision, and sustainability.

Terraform Pro and Terraform Helmets

The Terraform is an open-face helmet built for trail and all-mountain riding, while the Terraform Pro extends full-cheek-coverage for enduro, extreme e-MTB, and high-speed S-pedelec applications. Completing the system, the Override is a modular, high-performance goggle developed for the new generation of enduro, S-pedelec, and performance e-MTB riders.

“Terraform and Terraform Pro represent the evolution of Rudy Project in the enduro segment,” said Simone Barbazza, Chief Marketing Officer at Rudy Project. “With certified protection even at high speeds, proven performance against rotational impacts, and a responsible production approach, we offer riders a complete solution, helmet and goggles without having to choose between safety, lightweight performance, and sustainability.”

• Triple-certified safety Meets CE EN 1078, CPSC, and NTA 8776 standards with built-in rotational impact protection.
• Emergency-ready Embedded NFC chip gives first responders instant access to medical data, no internet needed.
• 70%+ recycled materials, Sustainable construction across all components without compromising performance.
• Modular & repairable Override goggle’s disassemblable design allows full component replacement to extend product life.

Both helmet models meet three international safety certifications: CE EN 1078, CPSC, and the NTA 8776 high-speed S-pedelec standard and integrate Rudy Project’s proprietary RP Rotational Impact system plus the Twiceme® digital safety platform, which allows emergency responders to access a rider’s medical data and emergency contacts instantly via NFC chip, no internet required.

Both helmets feature extended coverage of the temporal and occipital zones, the areas most exposed in lateral and rear impacts along with a high-flow ventilation channeling system, the proprietary Air Frame Band for sweat management, and the new RSR12 fit system with multi-directional height adjustment. A large, adjustable visor is compatible with eyewear and goggles, including the new Override goggle, and is engineered to release automatically on impact to help reduce rotational forces. Despite the extended protection, the Terraform starts at just 400g (S/M) and the Terraform Pro at 500g (S/M).

Override Googles

Designed as the ideal goggle companion to the Terraform family, the Override is engineered for athletes who demand uncompromising vision, ventilation, and durability in the most technical conditions. At the core of Override lies an innovative dual-frame construction: two fully disassemblable frames, one integrated with internal padding and one dedicated to the elastic band and lens, enhancing structural durability, simplifying maintenance, and allowing complete component replacement to extend product lifespan.

Override features cylindric lenses for enhanced optical precision and an expanded field of view. Riders can choose between mirrored and transparent interchangeable lenses, both of which are easily replaced via a quick-change system with four secure buttons. The platform is fully compatible with RX optical inserts. An integrated 360° ventilation system optimizes airflow to reduce fogging, while triple-layer internal foam provides long-lasting comfort and a stable facial interface. A 45mm adjustable elastic strap with silicone grip guarantees a secure helmet fit even on the roughest terrain. Designed as a unisex model, Override weighs just 123 grams.

True to Rudy Project’s commitment to responsible design, more than 70% of Terraform’s total weight comes from recycled materials. The Terraform Pro incorporates more than 60% recycled content. EPS, polycarbonate, nylon, straps, padding, and packaging all use recycled components without sacrificing performance or safety.

Availability and Pricing

• Terraform 4 colorways from $199.99
• Terraform Pro 4 colorways $299.99
• Override (mirrored lens) $119.99
• Override (transparent lens) $99.99

Twiceme’s Digital Safety Helmet Technology

Twiceme Technology, a company building a digital safety standard for jobsites and adventures, today announced its partnership with Rudy Project, a premier global supplier of helmets, sunglasses, and prescription eyewear for the multisport community, at the Sea Otter Classic. Rudy Project has integrated Twiceme’s digital safety technology into its Terraform and Terraform Pro helmets.

The partnership combines Rudy Project’s four decades of expertise in crafting performance helmets with Twiceme’s cutting-edge digital safety solutions. Founded in 1985 in Treviso, Italy, and now available in more than 60 countries, Rudy Project has earned a reputation among elite athletes and weekend warriors for pioneering new materials and technologies. By embedding Twiceme’s near-field communication (NFC) technology directly into Rudy Project helmets, bikers will now have instant access to critical safety features that could prove vital in emergencies.

“At Rudy Project, we believe performance starts at the top with the head, the center of vision, balance, and protection,” said Simone Barbazza, chief marketing and sustainability officer, Rudy Project. “Our partnership with Twiceme extends our commitment to athlete safety by adding an intelligent layer of protection that travels with riders wherever the road or trail takes them.”

Rudy Project helmets featuring Twiceme will offer a suite of safety capabilities through the Twiceme smartphone app, including a Medical ID feature that enables users to upload vital health information to their helmet, such as emergency contacts, allergies, medical conditions, and medications. First responders can instantly access this life-saving information by simply hovering their smartphone over the Twiceme symbol on the helmet.

The safety features also include:

• Share Location lets select users see their riding partners’ or groups’ real-time locations, helping them keep track of their riding partners or groups.
• The Emergency Services function enables users to manually trigger emergency notifications when they recognize danger, using GPS to pinpoint their last known location for a rapid response.
• Get Back Timer enables users to set expected return times and automatically alerts designated contacts if the return is delayed.
• Immobility Alert detects prolonged immobility, which could indicate a rider is incapacitated. If a user does not respond to a mobile notification, an emergency alert is triggered.
• Medical ID enables users to upload vital health information to their helmet, such as emergency contacts, allergies, medical conditions, and medications. First responders can instantly access this life-saving information by simply hovering their smartphone over the Twiceme symbol.

“Mountain biking takes athletes into remote terrain where quick emergency response can be challenging,” said Christian Connolly, CEO of Twiceme. “Our partnership with Rudy Project empowers riders to take control of their safety on the trail. By integrating our technology into Rudy Project’s helmets, we’re giving users the tools to be proactive about their safety and providing emergency responders the information they need to respond more effectively.”

HotBars…the world’s first heated bicycle handlebar! The future is here…and it sure is warm. 

HotBars are the world’s first heated bicycle handlebars, designed for dedicated riders seeking optimal comfort and control through the coldest, wettest days of winter. HotBars’ unique design features integrated heating elements that conduct heat through the carbon fiber handlebar and radiate it into your favorite grips, straight to your hands. That’s right, no special grips required. Gone are the days of bulky winter gloves creating a vague bar feel, reducing a rider’s grip on the bars, and decreasing their overall braking and shifting control.

Constructed from premium unidirectional carbon fiber with strategically placed glass fibers, HotBars are engineered to improve vibration damping and reduce rider fatigue while still providing a responsive, lively feel. Both the 31.8mm and 35mm handlebars feature 8° of backsweep and 5° of upsweep, and are impact tested to the same rigorous standards as other enduro-ready handlebars on the market. HotBars cannot be cut due to the integrated heaters, but they’re available in incremental widths ranging from 700mm to 800mm.

HotBars offer three warmth levels and deliver 2–3 hours of runtime depending on ambient temperature and selected heat output. Low is intended to take the edge off on chilly fall rides, while High keeps your digits happy and dexterous through the most frigid winter days. HotBars feature USB-C fast charging, fully recharging a depleted battery in less than 3 hours.

Heat is conducted out from under the grips; you can use any grip brand, though silicone grips insulate too well and won’t transfer heat to your hands. I tried them out at the Sea Otter show, and they offered noticeable warmth; no more cold hands! Perfect for the trail, fat bike, road, gravel, or commuting.

Specs:

• No visible wires.
• 3 warmth levels.
• Can be used with any grips.
• Compliant, responsive carbon fiber.
• USB-C fast-charging.
• IP65 water-resistance.
• Available in 31.8mm and 35mm clamp diameters.
• Lengths ranging from 700mm to 800mm.
• 31.8mm: 50mm stack / ~25mm rise
• 35mm: 60mm stack / ~35mm rise

A professional-grade tool that significantly reduces time and effort when installing/removing tires and CushCore tire inserts.

CushCore is a company built on solving problems. They noticed a gap in the market for tire and insert installation tools – their Bead Dropper and Bead Bro work great, but professional-grade tire installation tools common in other industries are lacking in the cycling industry.

The new Rotary Tire Tool was primarily designed for the Cush Core inserts, which can be a bear to install. They definitely took inspiration from the car and motorcycle tire installation machines. 

That’s where the new Rotary Tire Tool comes in.

Love this new Cush Core rotary tire tool. I’ve got arthritic hands, and tire removal and installation are difficult. This would be magic for my weak and aching hands and thumbs.

Whether you’re a passionate home mechanic, swapping tires for race teams, or working all day at a bike shop, the Rotary Tire Tool is here to make quick work of even the most difficult tire installations.

• Install and remove tires/inserts in minutes.
• Fits most thru axle hubs (axle diameters: 12mm – 20mm).
• Quick adjust system (fits wheel sizes: 24”-29”, 650b, 700c).
• Highly engineered shape and surfaces glide tires and inserts onto wheels with ease.
• Fast & Easy assembly/disassembly for storage/transport.
• Patent Pending.
• MSRP $299 USD – available for purchase early May 2026.

Freewheel MTB Long Sleeve Jersey

Bike-Specific Fit, Performance, and Durability with Full Coverage Sun Protection – $75

The Freewheel MTB Long Sleeve Jersey (Men’s & Women’s) is built for year-round trail riding, featuring a trim fit and modern materials that deliver the perfect blend of comfort and performance for pedaling uphill or locking in on the descent. Crafted from an updated high-performance recycled polyester blend, this jersey is durable, breathable, quick-drying, and moisture-wicking. Our thermo-regulating ActiveTemp treatment regulates body temperature on long climbs, while UPF 30 blocks UV rays. Movement-mirroring stretch delivers unrestricted mobility, and thoughtfully designed features include a contoured hem with a drop tail for extended coverage, seamless shoulders for comfort while wearing a pack, and an interior microfiber wipe at the left hem to wipe sweat and dirt from eyewear.

Freewheel MTB Short Sleeve Jersey 

Lightweight, Bike-Specific Fit and Breathable UPF 30 Sun Protection – $65

The Freewheel MTB Short Sleeve Jersey (Men’s & Women’s) is a breathable, moisture-wicking top with a bike-specific cut for trail and gravel riding. This mountain bike jersey combines wicking, quick-drying, and breathable bluesign® approved materials with features like a drop-tail hem, UPF 30+ sun protection, and strategically placed shoulder seams for comfortable pack wear. ActiveTemp, a thermo-regulating treatment, manages body temperature during long ascents and technical, heart-pumping descents.

Freewheel MTB Half Zip Hoodie

Bike-Specific Fit and Weather-Resistance for an Extended Bike Season – $200

The Freewheel MTB Half Zip Hoodie (Men’s & Women’s) is a breathable, quick-drying layer that protects against wind and moisture while logging trail or gravel miles on cool weather days. Bike-specific fit and features include a drop-tail hem, an extended front zip for easy on and off, articulated cuffs, a 3-panel hood that fits underneath a helmet, and strategically placed shoulder seams for comfortable pack wear. The Freewheel Hoodie’s durable double-weave fabric offers movement-mirroring stretch to complement quick reactions on the bike and features bluesign®-approved and recycled materials. It also has integrated UPF 50+ sun protection for long days in the saddle.

Freewheel MTB Ride Shorts

Bike-Specific Fit and Features, Reinforced with Duraprint Technology – $130

The Freewheel MTB Ride Short (Men’s & Women’s) focuses on durable comfort and breathability, with a bike-specific fit and features for riding singletrack, gravel roads, and fast bike-park descents. The Freewheel Ride Shorts’ sturdy 4-way stretch fabric is complimented by DuraPrint®–a 3D-printed overlay–on the outer hems for extra abrasion resistance in high-wear areas. Duraprint’s proprietary resin-based structure adds durability without increasing weight or impeding the fabric’s flexibility. The higher back waist offers better coverage when seated, and laser perforations in the back yoke increase breathability. A low-profile waist adjustment tab dials in the fit, hip pockets, and a clever slide lock snap closure are intuitive, bike-friendly features.

Freewheel MTB Lite Ride Shorts

Technical Fabrics, Bike-Specific Fit and Minimalist Feature Set for High-Tempo Riding – $130

The Freewheel MTB Lite Ride Shorts (Men’s & Women’s) are built with durable, technical fabrics, a bike-specific fit, and a minimalist feature set for a clean, stealth silhouette on high-paced trail and bike-park rides. Crafted from lightweight, bluesign®-approved materials, these shorts feature a durable nylon-blend fabric that delivers 2-way stretch for movement mirroring. The abrasion-resistant fabric is treated with a DWR finish, making it water and wind-resistant while remaining breathable and quick-drying. The contoured waistband with a higher back ensures coverage in a seated position, and the bonded stretch waistband with Low-Pro adjustment tabs delivers a fine-tuned fit. Articulated leg openings fit over the knees and kneepads, a gusseted crotch enhances mobility, and the right zipped pocket keeps keys and phones safe and secure. These shorts also layer perfectly over a bike chamois or liner shorts.

Freewheel MTB XT Glove

Confident Control on Technical Terrain – $45

The Freewheel MTB XT Bike Glove is built for rugged singletrack and technical trails, delivering extra durable protection, precise grip, and breathable comfort for all-day riding. Made with abrasion-resistant, bluesign®-approved stretch double-weave fabric, these gloves balance toughness and flexibility for confident bar control. A synthetic Ax® Suede palm and reinforced DuraPrint scuff guards ups the durability factor, while perforation venting and silicone grip print improve airflow and grip. The hook-and-loop wrist closure secures the fit, and a patterned index finger resists wear on your braking finger. Touchscreen compatibility and a back-of-thumb sweat wipe add convenience for long days in the saddle.

PEARL iZUMi Launches PI PRO/BLACK, Its Lightest and Most Advanced Performance System to Date

Co-developed alongside PEARL iZUMi athletes, the system is engineered to disappear in motion and deliver on race day

PEARL iZUMi, the Colorado-based leader in cycling apparel and footwear, today announced the launch of PI PRO/BLACK, the next evolution in premium, performance-driven cycling apparel. Developed in close collaboration with the brand’s elite athlete roster, the five-piece system is engineered for race-day intensity, focusing on precision, weight, and fit.

PEARL iZUMi athletes tested PI PRO/BLACK over thousands of miles, providing constant feedback to develop a race-ready kit. PI PRO/BLACK is approximately 30% lighter than PEARL iZUMi’s existing PRO line, combining advanced compression, ultra-lightweight materials, and an aerodynamic construction.

“Being part of the team behind the PI/PRO BLACK line has been inspiring,” said PEARL iZUMi Athlete Alexey Vermeulen. “As an athlete it is the small moments as you watch the evolution of a great product come to life that instills confidence and belief on the race course.”

A System Designed Through Rigorous Athlete Testing

PI PRO/BLACK was developed as a complete head-to-toe system. Every piece was tested in real-world conditions to ensure it performs under pressure and disappears when the rider is in motion.

“We tested the PI PRO/BLACK jersey and bibs against a standard pro kit and found about a 6 watt savings at 20 mph,” said PEARL iZUMi Athlete Hannah Shell. “Most aero testing is done at much higher speeds, so seeing gains at a more realistic gravel pace makes this data way more relevant for how we actually ride and race.”

The PI PRO/BLACK Jersey ($225) uses a stretch-woven fabric that sits close to the body without feeling restrictive, holding its shape through long rides. Raised ribbed sleeves help keep airflow smooth, improving aerodynamics, and features sweat-activated In-R-Cool® technology by HeiQ® Smart Temp to manage heat that builds up on the body.

The PI PRO/BLACK Mesh Jersey ($190) is built for hot rides and intense efforts. The ultra-lightweight Italian mesh fabric keeps airflow high and manages moisture well. The cut is compressive, with a shorter torso and minimal collar to keep everything streamlined on the bike. It also features ribbed knit sleeves, providing an aerodynamic advantage over standard knit fabrics.

The PI PRO/BLACK Bib Short ($350) is constructed from a proprietary Italian-engineered stretch-woven fabric with graduated compression, tuned for sustained muscle support, improved circulation, and a second-skin feel. The bib upper is seamless, the raw-edge hems eliminate bulk and pressure points, and the PRO 3D Levitate chamois is designed to stay comfortable over longer efforts. The PI PRO/BLACK Bib Short is over 20% lighter than the brand’s existing PRO bib style.

The PI PRO/BLACK Wind Vest ($150) is lightweight (79g) and easy to pack down. It provides protection when conditions shift, blocking wind at the front while regulating airflow at the back through a mesh panel for breathability. The vest features a two-way zipper for quick temp control and easy access to jersey pockets while riding. It’s finished with PFAS-free PI Dry® water-repellent technology, GoFresh anti-odor technology, and BioViz® reflectivity for low-light visibility.

The PI PRO/BLACK Woven Aero Sock ($55) finishes the head-to-toe system, featuring a ribbed upper to reduce drag and a silicone gripper cuff to keep it in place on long rides. It’s lightweight (15g), moisture-wicking, and features UPF 50+ sun protection.

“PI PRO/BLACK came out of a lot of small refinements over time,” said Sierra Temple, PEARL iZUMi’s Product Development Manager. “We worked closely with our athletes to understand what actually makes a difference on race day and focused on those details, like fit, weight, and how the product feels after hours on the bike. The goal was to simplify things down to what really performs.”

Pi/Red and S26 Round Out the Lineup

Alongside PI PRO/BLACK, PEARL iZUMi is expanding its lineup with the introduction of Pi/Red and new Spring 2026 styles.

Pi/Red is built for riders putting in the work day after day, delivering high-performance, breathable gear at a more accessible price point. Inspired by key innovations from PI PRO/BLACK, the kit brings proven performance details into an everyday training setup. Compressive, body-contouring fabrics move naturally with the rider, while lightweight materials and cooling technologies help regulate temperature as intensity increases. The kit is designed to stay comfortable, perform consistently, and handle the demands of everyday training.

The S26 collection introduces fresh colors across PEARL iZUMi’s core styles. S26 blends technical function with everyday comfort, providing gear that feels very technical and comfortable in the saddle.

Pi PRO/BLACK launches April 16, 2026, and will be available at www.pearlizumi.com/. Pi/Red and the new S26 color options are available now.

Küat Announces Varial — A Revolutionary Roof Cargo Box Featuring Forward-Opening, Three-Sided Access

Springfield, Missouri– April 16, 2026– Küat, the award-winning designer of premium vehicle racks and adventure transport systems, today announced the launch of Varial, a first-of-its-kind rooftop cargo box engineered to make packing, organizing, and accessing gear easier than ever. Designed, formed, and assembled in the USA, the Varial debuts a forward-opening architecture with three-sided access, allowing drivers and passengers to reach their gear from virtually any angle.

“The Varial represents a new way of thinking about rooftop storage,” said Luke Kuschmeader, Founder and CEO of Küat. “For years, cargo boxes have only opened from one side, forcing people to work around the box instead of the box working for them. The Varial fixes that with its 3-sided access at all times. It’s intuitive, beautiful, feature-packed, and built to handle real travel and adventure.”

Forward-Opening, Three-Sided Access

The Varial’s signature innovation is its unique forward-opening door, which enables loading and unloading from the back, driver side, or passenger side. This design eliminates the need to shuffle around the vehicle, reach awkwardly, or deal with restricted access in parking lots or at trailheads.

Users can also lock or unlock the Varial from either side, reducing hassle and removing the need to use a key every time the box is accessed.

Fast, Set and Forget Mounting System

The Varial’s quick-mount hardware allows users to install or remove the cargo box in seconds. The system is engineered for confidence and simplicity, making it as friendly for family road trips as it is for multi-sport athletes.

Premium Construction, No Exposed Hardware

Built from UV-capped ABS for long-lasting protection and durability, the Varial features a clean exterior design with no exposed rivets or hardware. The result is a sleek, modern silhouette that’s more water-resistant and easy to service over time.

Inside, strategically placed mounting points for tie-down straps keep gear secure and organized, whether traveling across town or cross-country. Gas spring struts deliver a smooth, stable opening and closing experience in any weather.

Formed & Assembled in the USA

Proudly formed and assembled in the United States, the Varial reflects Küat’s commitment to quality craftsmanship and long-term product support.

Built for Real Travel

Created for families, road trippers, skiers and snowboarders, car campers, and year-round adventurers, the Varial provides the additional space families and travelers need, without compromising vehicle comfort or cargo accessibility.

“This box is designed for people who want more time outside and less time wrestling with their gear,” said Aaron Houston, R&D Manager at Küat. “Every detail, from the door geometry to the internal mounting points, is thoughtfully considered. The Varial is built to elevate every type of trip, in every season.”

Public Debut at Sea Otter Classic

Varial will make its official, public debut at the Sea Otter Classic in Monterey, California, where attendees can experience the new system firsthand. Visit booth A77. Additional showcases will take place throughout 2026 and beyond.

Availability

The Varial is expected to ship in October of 2026. Detailed specifications, pricing, product videos, and preorder announcements will be available at kuat.com/products/varial.

The 8 Degree Pedal is the world’s first flat pedal designed to float, allowing the foot, ankle, and knee to align naturally throughout every pedal stroke. This multi-patented bike pedal introduces controlled pedal float to flat pedals, creating a ride that feels intuitive, balanced, and effortlessly natural.

Pedal float in cycling has long been associated with improved comfort, more efficient power transfer, and reduced joint stress. The 8 Degree Pedal brings these proven biomechanical advantages to flat pedals by allowing natural foot movement under load rather than forcing the foot into a fixed position.

At the core of the design is a self-centering, spring-loaded mechanism. This system lets the pedal move naturally with the rider while automatically returning to center, providing self-compensating float that maintains stability and prevents excessive movement. The result is a connected, confident feel without the resistance or “stuck foot” sensation common with traditional flat pedals.

Durability and reliability were engineered from the inside out. The pedal has undergone extensive real-world testing by experienced riders, as well as rigorous laboratory testing under a weighted load. Testing included continuous operation at 60 RPM with 60 back-and-forth 8-degree cycles per minute, totaling 2,020,000 cycles. The design meets and exceeds International Safety Standards (ISO 4210-8) for bicycle pedals, making it one of the most reliable pedals for trail, mountain, and technical riding.

8 Degree Pedal Benefits

The 8 Degree Pedal delivers a more natural and efficient cycling experience by allowing the pedals to move with the rider’s feet rather than against them. The self-centering, self-compensating float reduces resistance during rotation, minimizes foot positioning issues, and helps eliminate discomfort caused by forced alignment.

Riders experience improved stability and control, especially on technical terrain, downhill trails, and jumps, where constant foot repositioning is significantly reduced. The design also minimizes uneven shoe wear and supports smoother hip and knee rotation through corners, promoting natural biomechanical motion and enhanced performance.

Whether you’re a mountain biker, trail rider, or commuting cyclist, the 8 Degree Pedal enhances your ride by combining ergonomic design, pedal float, and durable construction.

Built on Proven Refinement

Current production models reflect carefully considered refinements made through real-world testing and professional rider feedback, while preserving the patented biomechanical platform that cyclists trust today. The 8 Degree Pedal represents the next evolution in flat pedal design, offering unmatched performance, stability, and natural motion for riders of all levels.

Drop In Vertical Bike Rack – Targeting Spring 2027

Springfield, Missouri — April 16, 2026 — Küat shares an early concept for a new vertical bike rack named the Drop In, offering a glimpse into a future hitch rack solution.

Built for riders who need one rack that can handle a wide range of bikes, the Drop In vertical bike rack is being developed to transport up to 6 flat-bar bikes or 4 drop-bar bikes within a compact footprint. The concept focuses on efficient loading, secure support, and broad compatibility across bike styles, making it a strong solution for families, group riders, and shuttle setups.

The rack is designed to securely hold most road, mountain, kids’, and cruiser bikes (excluding fenders) and supports wheelbases up to 53 inches. It will support 20”–32” wheels up to 2.5” wide, with an optional accessory planned to accommodate fat bike tires up to 5 inches.

With a projected total capacity of 250 lb and an estimated weight of 95 lbs, durability and stability are central to the design.

“We’re always looking for ways to make transporting bikes simple, efficient, and adaptable to how people actually ride,” said Luke Kuschmeader, President of Küat. “This concept is about creating a high-capacity solution that’s also practical; something that works just as well for families as it does for group rides or shuttle days.”

Küat will share this concept publicly for the first time at the Sea Otter Classic (Booth A77), where attendees can get an early look at a prototype and learn more about the development direction.

The Drop In vertical bike rack is currently in development, with a target launch window of Spring 2027. Final specifications, features, and pricing have not yet been determined and may evolve as the product progresses.

This concept reflects Kuat’s continued focus on creating innovative, rider-feedback solutions and represents a step toward expanding high-capacity transport options for a wide range of riders. Additional details will be shared as the project continues. Visit www.kuat.com to stay up to date.

Race-Winning Speed Meets Trail-Ready Control

MONTEREY, Calif. — April 2026 — Kenda Tires today announced the launch of the all-new K-SERIES DAGGER XC Tire in the North American market. Designed for modern cross-country racing and aggressive marathon riding, the DAGGER is a high-performance XC and light-trail tire delivering exceptional speed, control, and durability across a wide range of terrain.

Succeeding the Booster, the DAGGER is positioned between the ultra-fast Rush and the traction-focused down-country Karma 2, balancing efficiency and grip for riders who demand race-day speed without sacrificing confidence when conditions turn technical.

Proven at the Highest Level

The DAGGER’s performance pedigree is established with race-winning results at the Hero Marathon World Cup, carrying KENDA’s Torpado Team to victory and posting rolling resistance values up to 30% lower than leading competitors in key XC conditions.

Engineered for Speed and Control

The DAGGER features a refined tread design combining low-profile center knobs to reduce rolling resistance with aggressive, supportive cornering knobs for confident grip at speed. Optimized knob spacing improves mud clearance and handling consistency, creating a tire that feels fast on hardpack, secure in loose-over-hard conditions, and predictable on wet or technical terrain.

Advanced Single-Compound Performance

A newly developed single compound delivers low rolling resistance, high grip, and predictable rebound—optimized into one formulation to maximize efficiency and control.

Two Casings. One Platform.

The DAGGER is offered in two purpose-built casing options:

• XC Casing (120 TPI): Lightweight and supple for maximum speed and race-day efficiency

• Trail Casing (60 TPI): More robust construction for added durability and confidence within the XC category

Sizes & Availability

The K SERIES DAGGER launches in 29×2.40, available in both XC and Trail casings. Additional sizes, including 29×2.60 and 27.5×2.40, will be available later in 2026.

A New Standard in XC Versatility The K SERIES DAGGER XC sets a new benchmark for modern cross-country tires, delivering elite-level speed, control, and confidence across varied terrain.