This Week's Favorite Products: August 24-August 30

Welcome to our weekly roundup of your favorite products! Each week, we'll feature top selling items across categories like apparel, accessories, components, and more. Whether you're looking to upgrade your bike or try something new, these recommendations are sure to deliver. Let's dive in!

Why We Love It:

The Kong Duck is one of those clever pieces of gear that proves great design doesn’t need to be bulky. Its small size and lightweight build mean you can carry it anywhere without hesitation. Whether you’re ascending a rope, setting up a hauling system, or managing progress capture in a rescue situation, the Duck’s ability to work with a wide range of rope diameters (8–13 mm) and slings (10–15 mm) makes it adaptable to nearly any situation.

We especially love how intuitive and quick it is to use. The ergonomic shape allows for easy one-handed operation—even with gloves on—while the precision spring cam offers secure grip and smooth action. In short: the Duck is compact, tough, and brilliantly versatile.

Pros:

1. Compact and lightweight – fits in the palm of your hand and packs easily.

2. Versatile – works with ropes (8–13 mm) and flat/tubular slings (10–15 mm).

3. Durable construction – CNC machined aluminum alloy with a stainless-steel cam ensures longevity.

4. Easy one-handed operation – ergonomic design and smooth spring action.

5. Great for rescue systems – functions well as a progress capture device in hauling scenarios.

6. CE and EN certified – meets strict European safety standards.

Cons:

1. Not for dynamic rope use – designed for static or semi-static ropes only.

2. Limited load rating – not suitable as a primary fall-arrest device.

3. Small size can be fiddly – might be tricky for those with larger hands, especially in icy conditions.

4. Specialized use – not as versatile for casual recreational climbers who don’t need rope clamps often.

Why We Love It:

The Piston Pro X isn’t just another hitch rack—it’s a carefully engineered piece of cycling gear that makes transporting your bikes effortless. The OneTap™ hydro-pneumatic levers let you load and unload bikes with one hand, and the FastFit™ wheel chocks adjust quickly to different wheel sizes without tools. With a nearly all-metal construction, Kashima-coated pistons, and a durable Galaxy Gray powder coat, this rack is built to last while looking sharp.

It’s also highly versatile: supporting bikes with tires up to 5" wide, wheelbases up to 53", and loads up to 60 lbs. per tray (67 lbs. on the 2" version). That means it can handle everything from your lightweight carbon road machine to your burly full-suspension e-bike. Add in the integrated LED taillights , hitch lock , and semi-integrated cable lock , and you’ve got a rack that’s as safe as it is convenient.

Pros:

1. Premium Kashima-coated pistons for smooth, reliable arm action.
2. OneTap™ and FastFit™ systems make loading and adjustment tool-free and effortless.

3. All-metal construction with stainless hardware and durable powder coat finish.

4. Integrated LED taillights improve safety and visibility on the road.

5. High weight capacity supports e-bikes and heavy builds with ease.

6. Optional accessories like a loading ramp make handling heavy bikes even easier.

7. RV compatibility with the dedicated 2" version.

Cons:

1. High price point —a serious investment compared to other racks.

2. Heavy build (~61 lbs) makes removal and handling tough for one person.

3. Locking tool can rattle in its housing during transit.

4. 1.25" version not RV-compatible , only the 2" version works with RV chassis mounts.

Why We Love It:

We love the 1090 Evolution Series 4 because it combines serious protection with everyday practicality . The 10mm six-sided chain links are made from 3T manganese steel , making them incredibly resistant to cutting and leverage attacks. The end-link design eliminates the weakest point of traditional chain locks by connecting the chain directly to a hardened deadbolt, rather than just looping around the lock body.

At 90cm long , it’s versatile enough to secure your bike to a fixed object while keeping the lock compact and manageable for transport. The durable nylon sleeve helps protect your bike’s paint, and the lock cylinder itself is engineered to resist picking and drilling.

This is the type of lock you buy if you want long-term security and confidence that your bike will still be where you left it.

Pros:

1. High-Security Steel Links – 10mm six-sided manganese steel resists bolt cutters and leverage attacks.
2. End-Link Design – Chain attaches directly into a hardened deadbolt, eliminating a common point of weakness.
3. Disc-Style Cylinder – Resistant to picking and drilling, adding another layer of defense.
4. 90cm Length – Compact yet versatile enough to secure the frame and wheel to racks or poles.
5. Protective Nylon Cover – Prevents scratches on bike frames and improves handling.
6. Includes Kryptonite Key Safe Program – Register your keys online for free replacement if they’re lost.

Cons:

1. Heavy – At around 6 lbs, it’s not the lightest lock to carry.
2. Limited Length – 90cm works for most setups, but it may be short if you need extra reach.

3. Not As Quick as a U-Lock – Wrapping and positioning the chain takes a bit more time.

4. Pricey – More expensive than basic locks, but you’re paying for serious protection.

Why We Love It:

We love the Kryptonite Evolution Series U-Lock because it strikes the right balance between security, portability, and versatility . The 13mm hardened steel shackle provides serious protection against bolt cutters and leverage attacks, while the included 4’ Kryptoflex double-loop cable lets you secure your front wheel or accessories with ease. Add in thoughtful extras like three stainless steel keys (one with an LED light), a dust cover, and Kryptonite’s Key Safe Program, and you’ve got a lock that goes the extra mile for peace of mind.

Pros:

1. 13mm hardened steel shackle resists cutting and leverage attacks

2. Double-deadbolt design with pick- and drill-resistant cylinder

3. Includes a 4’ Kryptoflex double-loop cable for wheels or accessories

4. FlexFrame-U bracket makes on-bike carrying easy and secure

5. Comes with three keys, including an LED key for night use

6. Sliding dust cover protects the lock cylinder

7. Backed by Kryptonite’s Key Safe Program for free key replacements

8. Compact size makes it easier to carry daily

Cons:

1. Compact dimensions (3.25” x 7”) can limit locking options on larger racks or posts

2. Included cable adds flexibility but doesn’t provide the same level of security as the U-lock itself

3. Slightly more expensive than entry-level locks

4. Cable can be a bit unwieldy to coil and carry if not strapped down

Why We Love It:

We love the Kenda Juggernaut because it delivers exactly what fat bike riders need: a confident grip across a wide range of conditions, solid puncture resistance, and excellent value for money. The rugged construction and versatile tread design let you ride with peace of mind whether you’re adventuring off-road or cruising through city streets. Add in Kenda’s reputation for reliability, and this tire is a smart upgrade or replacement choice.

Pros:

1. Wide 26 x 4” profile provides excellent traction on snow, sand, and loose terrain

2. Durable 60 TPI casing with wire bead for long-lasting reliability

3. Aggressive tread pattern offers stable cornering and grip in varied conditions

4. Kenda K-Shield puncture protection helps reduce flats

5. Reflective sidewall stripe adds visibility and safety in low light

6. Budget-friendly option compared to higher-end fat bike tires

Cons:

1. Heavier than folding, high-TPI tire options

2. Sidewalls are less supple due to steel wire bead construction

3. Tread can wear faster when ridden primarily on pavement

4. Not the lowest rolling resistance—can feel slower on smooth surfaces