Sea Otter 2012: Photo Randoms

Cool New Products from the Bike Industrys Early Season Release event.

Maguras answer to the demand for more powerful road brakes. Although it is not the disc style design most riders seem to be demanding, this rather "simple" system will mount on any current road bike with no modification. The convertor box weighs around 200g according to Tony Ballantine of Magura USA while the calipers are in line with other high end calipers on the market currently. One quick cruise around with these powerful stoppers proves just how useable they are. Great modulation, a very positive lever feel, and overall complete braking confidence. Details have yet to be released but stay tuned.

The XR1450 29 is DT Swiss' new lightweight 29er wheel set weighing in at a claimed 1550 grams, the XC wheelset uses a DT240  hub lace with bladed spokes to a 26mm wide (19.6mm internal) tubeless ready rim.

Fox Shox new DOSS height adjustable post was on hand with its new dual lever handlebar remote system. One lever allows the post to drop to its middle height with the larger lever allows the post to drop all the way in its travel. he post is all mechanical with internal bearings to create a smooth yet durable action.

Wood Helmets from Coyle’s Tree Piece use woods like Douglas Fir (standard), Myrtle, Red, Maple, Walnut and Oak. Maker/Owner Dan Coyle can and will make them from any type of wood but says the harder woods are more durable while the softer ones are better for impact absorption. Cut cork internals provide natural comfort, but EPS foam is an option. Weights are similar to most other "trall" style helmets depedning on type of wood and internals used.  Prices are $265 and up depending on wood and whether you want cork or foam inside.

Yeti's prototype 303 World Cup carbon DH bike was on hand for Yeti racer Jared Graves.

Continental had some nice improvements to their line with Revo or RTR, a Tubeless ready tire series which features a high strength nylon casing with an additional rubber coating for high durability and easy tire sealing. Paired with a tubeless bead, these tires offer a great combination of reasonable weights, tubeless compatibility, and easy mount up. Revo, will be available in all the popular mountain tires including the Mountain King, X King, Race King, and Trail King in both 26" and 29" versions. Conti plans to release a 650b option this fall.

Claimed weights Race King RTR: 550 grams X-King RTR: 570 grams Trail King RTR: 638 grams Mountain King RTR: 650 grams

Continental also had a new Sealant to show off which is absent of latex, ammonia, and protein, while still offering sealing power for cuts up to 6mm.

Eastons new 35mm diameter bar and stem combo makes wider bars stiffer than ever before.

Liteville 301. Look for a full review from Mountain Flyer soon!

Ibis had this work of art coined "Maximus" on hand. A very cool piece of art indeed. Check it out at IbisMaximus.com

Campagnolos new electronic Record Group offered some pretty cool technology and quick precise shifting, but with an MSRP of around $5k its not for the budget oriented rider.