The manufacturing industry for our sport is a cut throat business. Everyone is trying to make their product that much lighter, that much more unique, but not that much more expensive. The cost to manufacture goods has risen so much in the past it amazes me that these companies are still on the grind to create the lightest, most unique and functional parts for your bike, and they are succeeding. Recently we got the new Twenty6 F1 stem, along with the Straitline Ultra stem, so let's take a side by side look at them.

Read on for the comparison...

"I'll have an "E" please Bob", was a famous quip on Blockbusters quiz show that ran for ages here in the U.K. Basically the challenge was two contestants pitted against one, was two heads better than one? Maybe... Our question today is are two shocks better than one?

2Stage Bikes of New Zealand is asking that question today...

We all know it's all about Troy Lee, he's got style. Something he inherited from his Dad Larry Lee from the pics I've seen. He's now teamed up with Leatt, the "Helmet for your neck" people and what a collaboration this is. These are so shiny that Puff Daddy and Paris Hilton are already on the waiting list for one.

From deep inside the bowels of Freeride Entertainment comes the Red Bull Rampage – The Evolution on DVD. A few nights ago I had the opportunity to sit down with Big D, Axl, Lunchbox Larry, Brad, Leroy Brown and a few other great Freeride employees to watch a teaser copy of the newest Westerlund creation and let me tell you what – It’s off the hook!

Here are my thoughts on the new flick and the contest that defines Freeride Mountain Biking:

We are all for straight talking. Some of you are that bent you couldn't lie straight in bed. If you're in the flat pedal brigade then send your cursor in a straight line, right here and open this article.

Yes you all know I have a passion for flat pedals and here we have a prime example of why:

I think tires are super important for both racing and riding around on your local trails, so I decided to write my first tech article on tires and tire selection. I try my best to get the most out of my tires and try to use the best tire for the conditions. I see so many posts on the local forums with people asking "What tire should I use?". And what about all those racers showing up to races with worn out tires that aren't intended for the course conditions. Hopefully what I've learned over the last couple years could be of some use to you.

Since 1954 Bell Helmets has been helping riders protect their domes. We have all questioned the use of a helmet before, however we should always practice the use of a helmet when we put ourselves at risk, and what better way to protect yourself but by looking good? Last season Bell released their Drop helmet, that is offered in a plethora of colors, and decal designs, to help you look the best while you protect yourself.

Take a look at what showed up at Pinkbike HQ today!

2009 Manitou Dorado

You know its serious when the delivery truck has a police escort and the signing for the package includes a retina scan! Ok, that didn't happen and we're not that important, but maybe the brand new Manitou Dorado is? The full review is a ways off, but I could not resist giving you guys a look at what's coming up.

Read on for lots of pictures, more info, and an HD video...

Miles ‘Shovelpick’ Sullivan goes back home to Hawaii over the break to ride trails, test some new Dakine gear and shoot some video with his good buddies on the Islands.

Read on to see what he thinks of the new Dakine gear and to watch his island adventure on 2 wheels:

2009 Norco Shore Two Product Preview: specs & photos by Brad Walton

'09 has already been a fantastic riding season here in Washington with our unusually dry and warm-ish winter (post flooding). The December snow storms still have remnants on the upper trails, but for the most part riding has been occupying most of my time as usual. To make things even better, I've got a great spring test bike courtesy of Norco Bikes . Before I hit the trails with this new steed, I hit up the studio to show you some product highlights of the 2009 Norco Shore Two.

If you were to say Koo-at to someone they may think you were on some kind of mind altering drug, however, when pronounced correctly you may get a different response. Küat is pronounced koo-at and it comes from combining the names of the two founders of the company, Luke Kuschmeader and Brian Atkinson. Kuat produces 2 bike racks, the Beta and the Alpha. Both have different features, but today we are going to focus on the Beta rack.

Read on for more information...

Looking to polish up your XC trail skills? Then this is definitely one to watch. Scottish DH National Coach Chris Ball teamed up with Reset Films to bring you the Dirt School DVD. Whether you are a novice or an advanced rider there is something in here for you.

Ever find yourself wondering what time it is, but no one knows? Here's the solution to your problem, and of course, it involves bikes.

Read on for a tutorial on how to make a brake rotor clock!