This Week's Favorite Products: July 20-July 26

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 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:

The XX1 Eagle XG-1299 cassette isn’t just a drivetrain component—it’s a statement. With its unrivaled 520% gear range , it gives riders the ability to tackle the steepest climbs without sacrificing top-speed capabilities. That 10T cog combined with a massive 52T bailout gear is perfect for riders chasing every marginal gain, especially in races where every second (and gram) counts.

But what really elevates this cassette is the machined, one-piece construction . SRAM uses a process called X-Dome™ to hollow out a single block of steel, making the cassette incredibly light and stiff. Add a hardened aluminum 52T cog and you get a cassette that’s not only high-performing but built to last.

And then there’s the Rainbow finish . It’s not just flashy—it’s iconic. It adds a premium, high-tech look to any bike and instantly sets your build apart.

Pros:

1. Massive 520% range for ideal low and high gearing
2. Ultra-lightweight with X-Dome™ CNC-machined steel design
3. Flawless shifting under load and in dirty conditions
4. Compatible with all SRAM Eagle 12-speed derailleurs
5. One-piece construction reduces weight and increases durability
6. Iconic Rainbow finish adds standout style to your drivetrain
7. Quiet and stable drivetrain performanceacross all gears
   

Cons:

1. High price point compared to lower-tier cassettes
2. Requires XD driver body , limiting hub compatibility
3. Rainbow finish can wear over time under heavy use

Why We Love It:

The  GX Eagle AXS  rear derailleur stands out as the perfect gateway into wireless Eagle shifting. It brings AXS tech to a rugged, value-focused package, delivering crisp, reliable performance and a massive 520% gear range—now supported by a new 10‑52t cassette. With its Lunar colorway and durable build, it’s ideal for aggressive trail riding without breaking the bank.

Pros:

1. Massive 520% gear range (10–52t) accommodates steep climbs and technical terrain.
2.  Wireless AXS shifting  eliminates cables and offers crisp, reliable shifts.
3.  Overload Clutch  guards against damage from rock strikes or crashes.
4. Highly customizable via app : adjust buttons, update firmware, check battery.
5. Value-forward design : nearly X01-level performance for less.
6. Rugged build : steel cage and pulleys hold up under heavy use.

Cons:

1. Heavier (~90 g) than X01/XX1 AXS due to steel cage: adds weight to the swingarm.
2. No battery included —must buy AXS battery and optional cover separately.
3. Steel cage isn’t lightweight —some riders may prefer aluminum for weight saving.
4. Slightly less crisp under extreme load compared to X01, per user testing.

Why We Love It:

The Kenda Krusade Sport shines as a go-to fat‑bike tire for riders seeking a reliable balance of traction, flotation, and efficiency. Its 26×4.0″ size provides excellent volume for snow, sand, and softer terrain, giving riders both confidence and versatility. This specific Sport version in wire bead and 30 TPI casing is particularly rugged—designed to sustain heavy use like e-bikes and off-road commuting—with modest rolling resistance for its class.

What really stands out is its ride feel. The Krusade Sport delivers a quiet, compliant ride, with a tread pattern that grips loose gravel and dirt confidently without creating excessive noise or harsh feedback. It's aggressive enough for trail use but smooth enough for paved sections, striking a balance that many all-condition riders appreciate. Whether you're commuting, exploring trails, or cruising beaches, this tire handles a wide range of surfaces with ease and reliability. It’s a dependable, no-fuss choice that holds up well through seasons of varied riding.

Pros:

1. Robust construction : 30 TPI wire bead casing is built tough for heavy-duty use like e‑bikes and snow riding.

2. Excellent traction & flotation : 4.0-inch width offers confident handling on soft terrain like snow, sand, or mud.

3. Quiet and smooth : Surprisingly low road noise with tread that grips loose surfaces well.
4. Affordable value : Priced competitively, it offers solid performance for the cost.
5. All-purpose tread : Aggressive enough for off-road, yet not over‑knobby—making it versatile for mixed riding.

Cons:

1. Heavier and firmer ride : Lower 30 TPI count makes it stiffer and heavier compared to higher‑TPI or folding‑bead tires.
2. Not tubeless-ready : Wire bead and single casing means no tubeless conversion—sealant upgrades aren’t an option.
3. Moderate rolling resistance : While reliable across conditions, it's not the fastest tire—an expected trade-off for durability.