Rocky Mountain introduces two aluminum versions of the Element for 2012, which are in 26in and 29in models. The Element 26in has 120mm of travel with two-digit model names while the Element 29in has 95mm and three-digit model names. Both gets Monarch rear dampers.

Used both by the two versions are the 7005 aluminium FORM tubesets and four-bar SmoothLink suspension design. Along with the SmoothLink suspension system of the revised RTC 29 geometry are some unique twists like a slightly less bottom bracket drop and a bit shorter top tube for each size.

Both superbly upgraded, the 2012 Rocky Mountain Element 26in and 29in models have some neat touches. The frame features cable guides for dropper seatposts, BB92 bottom bracket shells, internal cable routing, tapered head tubes, direct-mount front derailleurs, and custom anti-chain-drop plates.

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Michelin introduced the new PRO4 Road Bike Tire Range during its 120th anniversary celebration this 2011. The new bike tires offer enhanced longevity and performance. As compared to the PRO3, the PRO4 Service Course improves wet surface cornering speed by 16%.

On the other hand, the PRO4 features a better cut resistance and a new dual compound tread as well. In rolling resistance, the Comp Service Course offers a 7% improvement with a 150tpi casing and minimal 180g weight.

Four tires are included in the 2011 Michelin PRO4 Road Bike Tire Range. These are the Endurance with longer tire life and enhanced protection, Service Course with all-around performance, Comp Service Course with rolling efficiency emphasis, and Comp Limited Service Course with unprecedented rolling efficiency and maximized for speed.

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Velorbis, maker of the iconic and classic designer bikes, has announced the release of its new bike basket system with an amazing 15kg load capacity, making it the world’s strongest basket. This basket is created based on the unique patent pending FrameFix mounting bracket, also a new Velorbis invention.

The new Velorbis FrameFix mounting bracket is a totally consumer-driven solution to all cycling storage problems. Attached to the head tube not to the handlebars, it keeps the accompanying basket in a fixed position when cycling. This provides more stability and strength.

In terms of design functionality and aesthetics, the 2011 Velorbis Bike Basket is completely unique. Thanks to the inner core strength offered by the Velorbis FrameFix mounting mechanism that maximizes the load capacity of bike baskets without compromising balance and steering ability.

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Wabi Cycles has updated its steel fixie called The Classic for 2011. Weighing in at 19lbs, this steel bike combines the advantages of being classic and having a lighter weight. This is achieved through an outstanding component group, great updates, and the hand built tig-welded Reynolds 725 frame.

Along with the frame comes road-inspired geometry. At the drop outs, rack and fender mounts were discreetly placed on the inside of the fork blades and seat stays. Moreover, the bike has a new lighter stem and was modified to accept fatter tires, up to 32mm wide.

Aside from the updated traditional headset to a press fit version, a second set of bottle bosses on the seat tube were added for more efficient hydration. Modified with excellent updates and upgrades, the 2011 Wabi Classis Steel Fixie is a beautiful modern bike.

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Scott Spark remakes its full-suspension race bike for 2012 with three models, which are Spark RC, Spark 29 RC and Contessa Spark RC. The focus for these new models is on the suspension travel quality. Both the 26in and 29in versions feature TwinLoc remote lockout that offers three distinct modes of travel.

The 26in model offers 120mm of travel while the 29in version offers 100mm. Aside from low weight that contributes to its excellent hardtail performance, enhanced adjustability and suspension performance are also added. Moreover, more control is offered.

Also offered are damping characteristics that operate through a single handlebar mounted lever and a new 220g shock called the Nude 2 from DT Swiss. Very promising, the 2012 Scott Spark features bikes that are designed to clear obstacles by simulating riders’ pedaling and bouncy motions.

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Halfords does not follow suit with the trend of rising bicycle prices. With its new Carrera Kraken hardtail model for 2012, it guarantees topnotch features but its price is incredibly lower than other competitors. Some of these features are maintained from its previous versions.

The heat-treated and double-butted 7005 alloy frame of the 2010 model will also be used in the 2012 version, which weighs 13.8kg. A 120mm-travel Suntour XCR-D air fork will also be used up front. Its pedals are of higher quality alloy but of similar price with throwaway plastic pedals.

With a classy look but lowered price, the 2012 Carrera Kraken is a very competitive mountain bike to watch for. Included in the spec highlights of the bike are Clarks hydraulic disc brakes, Continental Mountain King 2.2in tires, SRAM X5/S600 gearing and alloy wheels.

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Rocky Mountain offers the Vertex bike only in a 29in wheel size for 2012. The carbon fiber design called Smooth Wall enhances front triangle stiffness. Riding comfort is optimized by the minimized seat stays and the 27.2mm seat post.

One of the interesting features of the racing bike is the use of the 142mm X 12mm rear axle standard for the frame. This gives more importance on the competence for performance more than the ease of rear wheel removal.

With four available frame sizes, the 2012 Rocky Mountain Vertex can fit riders of various heights. Emphasizing on ride quality, the new RTC-29 geometry of the bike features less bottom bracket drop, slightly shorter top tubes, short wheel bases, and super short chain stays.

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