Formula, Deuter, Chumba - Interbike 2014

Formula AM Hyperlight 27.5" Carbon Wheelset

Formula's no stranger to the world of carbon rims, but their previous carbon wheelset was designed for cross-country racers running lightweight tubular tires. The Volo AM Hyperlight wheelset is a different beast altogether, with a 24mm internal and 31mm external width that's intended to allow them to withstand the rigors of all-mountain riding or enduro racing. The rims are constructed from 12k carbon fiber, and laced up in a two cross pattern with 24 straight pull spokes to Formula's own hubs. Hookless rims are becoming more common, but Formula have gone with the more traditional hooked bead rim design. Claimed weight is 1591 grams for the pair (669g for the front and 892g for the rear). Lightweight carbon products typically cost a pretty penny, and the AM Hyperlights are no exception - a pair will set you back $3100 with a two year warranty.

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Deuter Attack 20 Pack

As riders continue to push the limits of their bikes and bodies both on and off the race course, hydration packs with built in back protection are becoming increasingly common. Deuter, a German brand that's been in business for over 115 years, uses an CE and TÜV/GS certified insert made from viscoelastic SC-1 foam in their Attack 20 pack to provide back protection in case of a crash. The Attack 20's hip belt is wider than what's found on most packs, a design that was chosen to keep the pack (and the rear panel) as close to the rider as possible. A hydration bladder isn't included in the pack's $180 price, but there is a compartment to hold a 3.0 liter bladder on the inside of the pack, along with hose guides on either shoulder strap. There's also a detachable full-face helmet holder and straps that can be used to secure pads to the outside of the pack, plus multiple pockets on the inside for tool and food organization. Available in the papaya-spring color shown, as well as basic black.

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Chumba Rastro Hardtail

Remember Chumba? Formerly based in California, the company is now located in Austin, Texas, where they are producing steel hardtails, a departure from the aluminum downhill bikes they were previously known for. Their 27.5" wheeled Rastro (Rastro means 'trail' in Spanish) is built from 4130 chromoly tubing and is designed to be run with a fork that has somewhere in the neighborhood of 140mm of travel, which will give it a slack, 67.5° head angle. Chainstay length sits at 425mm, a number Chumba chose in order to keep the ability to run a front derailleur, as well as to preserve the bike's stability at higher speeds. Frame weight is around the 5.5 lb mark, depending on the size, and the cost for the frame alone is $1100 USD.

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