This Week's Favorite Products: December 15-21

Welcome to our weekly roundup of favorite products! Each week, we'll feature top picks 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 Epos shines as one of the most user-friendly and versatile hitch bike racks available today. The telescopic arms and lamp kit set it apart from competitors, making it an excellent choice for riders who value convenience, safety, and premium quality. Whether you’re a commuter, mountain biker, or e-bike enthusiast, the Epos delivers an exceptional transport solution that minimizes hassle and maximizes functionality.

We particularly love:

• The quick and secure loading process , which saves time and effort.
• The lamp kit , which enhances safety on long trips.
• The tilt feature , which ensures you don’t sacrifice vehicle access when transporting bikes.

Pros:

1. Easy Loading and Unloading:
   • The telescopic arms eliminate the struggle of fitting bikes onto the rack. The intuitive system secures bikes without frame damage and works for bikes of all styles.
2. Highly Versatile:
   • Accommodates bikes of all types, from lightweight road bikes to heavy e-bikes, and handles tires up to 3.2 inches wide.
3. Enhanced Safety:
   • The included lamp kit improves rear visibility, ensuring compliance with regulations while enhancing safety for you and other road users.
4. Convenient Tilt Function:

   • Access your vehicle’s trunk or rear hatch even when bikes are loaded—an incredibly practical feature for cyclists on the go.

5. Compact and Sturdy Design:

   • The rack folds up compactly when not in use, saving space in your garage or vehicle. Thule’s durable build ensures long-lasting reliability.
     

6. Tool-Free Installation:
   • Setting up the rack is quick and hassle-free, thanks to Thule’s smart mounting system.
7. Secure for Long Drives:
   • The platform design and robust clamps keep bikes stable during transport, even on rough terrain.

Cons:

1. Price:
   • As a premium bike rack, the Thule Epos comes with a higher price tag. For budget-conscious cyclists, it may feel like a significant investment. 
     
2. Weight:
   • The rack itself is relatively heavy due to its durable construction. While this ensures stability, it can make mounting and removing the rack a bit cumbersome.
     
3. Limited Tire Width Compatibility:
   • Although it handles tires up to 3.2 inches wide, cyclists with fat bikes featuring wider tires may need to look at alternative options.
4. Compatibility with 2 Bikes Only:
   • If you need to transport more than two bikes, you’ll need to explore other Thule models or racks with a higher capacity.

Why We Love It:

The Burley Cub X Child Trailer is the ultimate family adventure vehicle . Its rugged, weather-resistant design ensures you can confidently tackle any terrain, while the thoughtful comfort features keep your children happy and secure. From the padded, reclining seats to the roll cage and adjustable suspension, the Cub X is engineered to provide the best riding experience for your little ones.

We love the versatility of the Cub X—whether you’re using it as a bike trailer for weekend rides or converting it into a stroller for family outings, it’s a multi-functional tool that grows with your family’s needs.

The rear cargo space is another major win, offering room for essentials like diaper bags, snacks, toys, and groceries. Plus, the safety features, including the 5-point harness and reflective accents, give parents peace of mind during every ride.

Pros:

1. Built for Durability and Adventure:
   • The hard plastic base and rugged frame ensure durability on rough surfaces, making it one of the toughest trailers available.
   • Its weather-resistant materials protect against rain, dirt, and road debris, making it perfect for all-season adventures.
2. Superior Comfort for Kids:
   • The padded, reclining seats and adjustable suspension system keep kids comfortable on long rides.
   • UV-protected windows and excellent ventilation provide shade and airflow for a more enjoyable experience.
3. Spacious Design:
   • With room for two kids, the Cub X offers plenty of interior space.
   • The large rear cargo area provides ample storage for gear, snacks, and essentials, which is perfect for longer outings or errands.
4. Excellent Safety Features:
   • The 5-point harness system ensures your children are secure during rides.
   • Reflective accents, a safety flag, and a robust roll cage give parents peace of mind about safety.
5. Easy to Set Up and Store:
   • The trailer is simple to attach and detach with its tool-free hitch system.
   • When not in use, it folds down quickly for compact storage or transport.
6. Multi-Functional:
   • The trailer is compatible with add-on kits for strolling or jogging, making it versatile for families who enjoy biking, walking, and running.
7. Smooth Ride on Various Terrain:
   • The adjustable suspension system and 20-inch wheels provide excellent performance on pavement, gravel, and light trails.

Cons:

1. High Price Point:
   • The premium features come with a premium price. While the Cub X offers incredible value, it may not fit every family’s budget.
2. Heavy:
   • The trailer’s durable construction makes it a bit heavier compared to other models. This can make it harder to maneuver or lift into a car, especially when traveling solo.
3. Limited to Two Children:
   • While spacious for two, families with more than two young children may need to look for alternative solutions.
4. Additional Kits Sold Separately:
   • If you plan to use the Cub X as a jogger or stroller, the necessary kits must be purchased separately, adding to the overall cost.

Why We Love It:

The Surly Karate Monkey frameset embodies everything we love about Surly: versatility, durability, and no-nonsense design. Whether you’re a rider building your dream single-speed rig, a bikepacking enthusiast planning your next adventure, or a trail rider looking for an ultra-reliable steel hardtail, the Karate Monkey fits the bill.

Its modern geometry makes it fun and capable on the trails, while its utility-focused features (like rack mounts and tire clearance) make it practical for extended adventures. The ability to choose between 27.5+ and 29-inch wheels means riders can tailor their build to match their riding style and terrain.

We also appreciate Surly’s dedication to durability. The chromoly steel frame offers a lively, compliant ride and will last for years—even decades—with proper care.

While it’s not the lightest option on the market, the Karate Monkey trades weight for unmatched reliability and versatility. It’s a true workhorse that punches far above its price point.

Pros:

1. Versatile and Adaptable:
   • The Karate Monkey’s compatibility with both 27.5+ and 29-inch wheels opens up endless customization possibilities. Whether you want a plus-tire setup for traction and comfort or a faster-rolling 29er configuration, this frame can handle it.
2. Durable Chromoly Steel Frame:
   • Surly’s double-butted steel construction ensures exceptional strength and longevity. Steel frames can take a beating on rough trails, resist damage, and offer a ride feel that many riders prefer over aluminum or carbon frames.
3. Modern, Playful Geometry:
   • With its slack head tube angle, short chainstays, and long reach, the Karate Monkey provides a perfect blend of confidence and fun. It climbs well, corners with agility, and descends with stability.
4. Bikepacking and Utility-Friendly:
   • Thanks to its rack, fender, and cage mounts, the Karate Monkey isn’t just for trail shredding—it’s an excellent choice for bikepacking, commuting, and utility-focused builds.
5. Affordable for a Premium Steel Frameset:
   • Surly has managed to keep the Karate Monkey relatively affordable compared to higher-end steel or carbon alternatives. The quality and versatility justify its price.
6. Excellent Tire Clearance:
   • With clearance for 27.5x3.0" or 29x2.5" tires, the Karate Monkey gives riders the option to tailor their traction, comfort, and handling to the terrain they ride.
7. Timeless, Low-Maintenance Design:
   • Steel frames are simple, durable, and low-maintenance, making the Karate Monkey ideal for riders who prioritize longevity and reliability.

Cons:

1. Weight:
   • While steel offers durability and comfort, it’s heavier than aluminum or carbon. Riders looking for a lightweight trail bike might find the Karate Monkey on the heavier side, especially when built with plus-sized tires.
2. Not as Aggressive as Modern Enduro Bikes:
   • While the Karate Monkey’s geometry is modern, it’s not as slack or aggressive as some enduro-focused bikes. Riders who prioritize extreme downhill performance may want a more specialized frame.
3. Rigid Fork Limitations:

   • The included rigid fork is perfect for bikepacking and smoother trails but limits performance on technical or rough terrain unless swapped for a suspension fork.

4. Price for Frame Only:

   • While affordable for a steel frame, the Karate Monkey frameset doesn’t include wheels, components, or drivetrain. Budget-conscious riders will need to factor in the additional cost of a complete build.

Why We Love It:

The Thule Yepp Maxi 2 is a fantastic child bike seat for parents who value safety, comfort, and durability. It strikes the perfect balance between practical functionality and premium design. Whether you’re commuting to school, running errands, or enjoying a leisurely ride, this seat ensures your little one is secure, comfortable, and happy.

We particularly love the thoughtful details, such as the adjustable footrests, easy-to-clean material, and built-in ventilation. The ability to choose between a frame mount and rack mount version adds versatility, allowing families to find the perfect fit for their bike setup.

Thule’s reputation for quality and safety shines through in every aspect of the Yepp Maxi 2, making it a worthwhile investment for families who want to share the joy of cycling with their children.

Pros:

1. Exceptional Safety Features:
   • Safety is non-negotiable when it comes to transporting your child, and the Thule Yepp Maxi 2 excels in this area. The 5-point harness system keeps your child securely in place, while the sturdy construction ensures excellent stability. The seat is also designed to meet strict safety standards, offering peace of mind on every ride.
2. Comfortable for Kids:
   • The seat’s shock-absorbing EVA material is soft and supportive, helping reduce vibrations from bumps in the road. The ventilation holes further enhance comfort by keeping your child cool, making it ideal for longer rides or warm-weather adventures.
3. Easy to Adjust as Your Child Grows:
   • The adjustable footrests and straps are user-friendly and allow for easy customization as your child grows. This feature ensures the seat remains comfortable and functional for years.

     
     

4. Simple Installation:
   • The Yepp Maxi 2 is designed with busy parents in mind. Whether you choose the frame mount or rack mount version, the seat is quick to install, with clear instructions and tools provided.
5. Simple Installation:
   • The Yepp Maxi 2 is designed with busy parents in mind. Whether you choose the frame mount or rack mount version, the seat is quick to install, with clear instructions and tools provided.
6. Stylish and Practical Design:
   • Thule’s attention to detail is evident in the sleek and modern design of the Yepp Maxi 2. The seat looks great on any bike, and its practical features—like the ability to detach and lock it when needed—make it highly functional for everyday use.
7. Two Mounting Options:
   • The frame mount version attaches to the bike’s seat tube, making it perfect for bikes without rear racks.
   • The rack mount version attaches to a compatible rear rack, offering a more integrated look and freeing up additional space.

Cons:

1. Requires Compatibility Checks:
   • Frame Mount: Not all bike frames are compatible with the frame mount system. Bikes with unusual tube shapes or full suspension may not work.
   • Rack Mount: The rack mount version requires a sturdy rear rack with a weight capacity of at least 55 lbs (25 kg). If your bike doesn’t already have a rear rack, you’ll need to purchase and install one.
2. Price:
   • The Thule Yepp Maxi 2 is a premium child bike seat, and its price reflects that. While it offers outstanding quality and features, it may be a significant investment for some families.
3. Slightly Bulky:

   • Although the seat is designed to be lightweight, it does add some bulk to the rear of the bike. Riders who are shorter or who have smaller bikes may find the frame-mounted version sits close to them, impacting pedaling comfort.

4. Rack Installation May Be Extra Work:

   • If you opt for the rack-mount version but don’t already have a rear rack, there’s an added step (and cost) of purchasing and installing a compatible rack.

Why We Love It:

If you’re looking for a robust, high-traction tire for urban riding or BMX sessions, the Maxxis Hookworm 26 x 2.5 might just be your next best buy. Known for its durability, grippy tread, and smooth handling on concrete, this tire was built with city riders in mind. Whether you're commuting, hitting the skate park, or tackling an urban obstacle course, the Hookworm is designed to perform under high pressure on hard surfaces.

Pros:

1. Exceptional Durability:

   • Designed to withstand the wear and tear of concrete and asphalt, the Hookworm’s rubber compound and Silkworm protection make it highly resistant to punctures.

2. Superior Grip:
   • With its unique circular groove tread, the Hookworm provides excellent traction on urban surfaces, even in wet conditions.
3. Wide Profile for Stability:
   • At 2.5 inches wide, it’s stable enough for handling obstacles, jumps, and rough city terrain.
4. Great for High-Speed Control:
   • The high PSI rating and sturdy build offer confidence-inspiring handling at speed, making it ideal for city riders.

Cons:

1. Weight:
   • Due to its wire bead and large profile, the Hookworm is heavier than other city-focused tires. This can make acceleration a bit slower, but the stability and durability often outweigh this downside for urban and BMX riders.
2. Limited Off-Road Capability:
   • While the Hookworm excels on pavement and smooth surfaces, it lacks the knobby tread necessary for off-road trails or gravel.
3. Price:
   • The Hookworm’s price can be slightly higher than standard commuter tires, reflecting its specialized design and quality materials.