This Week's Favorite Products: August 3-August 9

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 Thule EasyFold XT is everything the name promises—and more. Its fully foldable platform makes storage and handling a breeze, while the sturdy frame clamps and built-in locks give peace of mind when you’ve got thousands of dollars’ worth of bike on the back of your car.

The tilt function is incredibly practical, letting you access your trunk without removing the bikes. And for heavy e-bikes or awkward frames, the removable loading ramp is a game-changer. We especially love that it works with both 1-1/4” and 2” receivers right out of the box—no adapters needed.

It’s clear this rack was built with real-world cycling demands in mind.

Pros:

1. Fully foldable for easy transport and storage
2. Compatible with e-bikes and heavy frames (up to 65 lbs per bike)
3. Fits 1-1/4” and 2” hitches with included adapter
4. Includes integrated loading ramp for effortless lifting
5. Secure frame clamps with rubber pads to protect bike finishes
6. Rack tilts away from vehicle to allow trunk access
7. Built-in locks for both bikes and rack

Cons:

1. On the heavier side (about 45 lbs)
2. Premium price point compared to basic racks
3. May not be ideal for riders with ultra-light or racing bikes who want a minimalist rack

Why We Love It:

The Sherpa 2.0 is more than just a bike rack; it's a testament to thoughtful engineering and design. Its lightweight aluminum construction ensures easy handling, while the foot-assisted pivot system offers convenience during loading and unloading. The rack's sleek pearl finish not only adds to its visual appeal but also complements a variety of vehicle styles.

Pros:

1. Lightweight Design: Weighing approximately 32 lbs, the Sherpa 2.0 is easy to install and remove, making it ideal for users who frequently mount and dismount their bike racks.
2. User-Friendly Features: The foot-assisted pivot system allows for effortless tilting of the rack, providing easy access to the vehicle's trunk even when bikes are loaded.
3. Secure Bike Mounting: The adjustable ratchet arm secures bikes without frame contact, protecting the bike's finish and ensuring stability during transit.
4. Compact Storage: When not in use, the rack folds flat against the vehicle, minimizing obstruction and facilitating easy storage.
5. Aesthetic Appeal: The pearl finish offers a modern and sleek look, enhancing the overall appearance of your vehicle.

Cons:

1. Weight Limitations: Each bike tray supports up to 40 lbs, which may not accommodate heavier electric bikes or downhill mountain bikes.
2. Limited Versatility: The rack is designed for bikes with tires up to 3 inches wide and wheelbases up to 47 inches, potentially restricting compatibility with some bike models.
3. Price Point: With a retail price around $800, it may be considered a premium option compared to other racks in the market.

Why We Love It:

The swing-away feature is a game-changer. Unlike tilt-only racks, this one gives you complete, unobstructed access to your trunk, hatch, or tailgate—even when fully loaded with four bikes. If you're on a road trip and need access to your cooler, tools, or gear bag in the back, this feature alone makes the  Apex XT Swing  worth it.

It also offers excellent bike stability , thanks to anti-sway cradles that prevent bikes from rubbing or bumping during transport. The design is smart, solid, and convenient—from the tool-free installation with a SnugTite stinger to the built-in cable lock that adds an extra layer of security. Plus, the arms fold down when not in use, making it compact when parked or stored.

Thule has engineered this rack with practicality and safety in mind—and it shows.

Pros:

1. Swing-away arm gives full rear vehicle access—even fully loaded

2. Carries 4 bikes securely with individual anti-sway cradles

3. Quick and tool-free installation with SnugTite hitch tightening system
4. Integrated cable lock and hitch lock included for added security
5. Fold-down arms for compact storage when not in use
6. Durable build quality typical of Thule products
7. Stable and quiet on the road with minimal movement

Cons:

1. Not ideal for heavy e-bikes due to weight capacity per bike

2. May require adapter for some frame types (e.g., step-through or kids' bikes)

3. Heavier than non-swing models

4. Pricey compared to standard 4-bike racks

Why We Love It:

We love the Riddler 700x37 because it hits the sweet spot between comfort, traction, and speed. The ride quality is stable and smooth, even on choppy surfaces, thanks to its smart tread layout and supple casing. It’s also a great-looking tire—especially in the tan wall version—which adds visual flair to any gravel build. The tubeless setup is straightforward, with the tire seating and sealing well on a wide range of rims. It's especially appealing to gravel riders who ride fast but still want predictable grip when things get loose. Whether you're commuting, racing, or out for an all-day exploration ride, the Riddler keeps you rolling efficiently and confidently.

Pros:

1. Fast-rolling center tread performs well on pavement and packed gravel

2. Excellent cornering traction thanks to aggressive side knobs

3. Comfortable ride with good damping over rough terrain

4. Tubeless-ready design is easy to install and seal

5. Lightweight for a gravel tire in this category

6. Sleek aesthetics with black or tan wall options

7. Ideal width (700x37) for mixed terrain and bikes with tighter clearance

Cons:

1. Rolling resistance is higher than some performance-oriented gravel tires

2. Limited to 37mm width—may not appeal to riders seeking wider volume

3. Wet traction is not as strong as in dry conditions

4. Lower puncture protection compared to some burlier gravel tires

5. Side knobs may wear faster with heavy road use

Why We Love It:

The  SRAM GX Eagle AXS Upgrade Kit  redefines what an upgrade should feel like. Its seamless integration with SRAM Eagle components means you don’t need to replace your cassette or crankset, making it an efficient and cost-effective way to experience electronic shifting.

We love its precision and reliability—whether climbing technical trails or descending at speed, the shifts are crisp and predictable. The app customization offers unprecedented control, allowing riders to tailor their setup to their preferences.

The clean look of the wireless design is another major highlight. Bikes equipped with AXS components have a sleek and modern aesthetic, free from cluttered cables.

Pros:

1.  Precise Shifting Performance:
   • The electronic shifting is smooth and consistent, even under load during climbs or aggressive riding.
   • Eliminates the need for mechanical cable adjustments, maintaining peak performance in all conditions.
2. Easy Installation:
   • Wireless design eliminates cables, housing, and the clutter associated with mechanical systems.
   • Intuitive setup process gets riders out on the trail quickly.
3. Customization Options:
   • The AXS app allows riders to program shift buttons, monitor battery life, and diagnose performance issues.
4. Compatibility:
   • Fits seamlessly into any SRAM Eagle drivetrain, making it an excellent upgrade for those who already own SRAM components.
5. Durability :
   • Designed for trail and enduro conditions, the derailleur features an overload clutch that disengages the motor during impact to prevent damage.
6. Aesthetics and Integration:
   • The black A1 finish and wireless design provide a clean, minimalist look.
7. Long Battery Life:
   • The derailleur battery offers 20+ hours of use per charge, and the controller uses a replaceable CR2032 coin cell battery.

Cons:

1. Cost :
   • The initial investment is higher compared to mechanical systems, which may deter budget-conscious riders.
2. Battery Dependency:
   • Although battery life is impressive, it introduces a reliance on charging. Forgetting to charge could leave you stranded with manual shifting unavailable.
3. Weight:
   • The electronic components slightly increase the overall weight compared to mechanical options, though the difference is negligible for most riders.
4. Learning Curve:
   • Riders unfamiliar with electronic drivetrains may need time to adapt to the system and app customization.
5. Not Fully Universal:
   • While compatible with SRAM Eagle components, it isn’t compatible with non-SRAM drivetrains, limiting versatility for mixed-component setups.