This Week's Favorite Products: July 27-August 2

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 Kuat NV 2.0 earns its place at the top with a blend of rugged build quality, sleek style, and thoughtful functionality. This 2-bike platform rack, compatible with either 1.25″ or 2″ hitch receivers, is engineered for serious riders—especially those hauling heavy e-bikes or mountain bikes. Constructed from heavy-duty, aircraft-grade aluminum and finished in metallic grey with vibrant orange anodized accents, it delivers both durability and head-turning aesthetics.

It can carry up to 60 pounds per bike tray, making it ideal for electric mountain bikes, with room for wheelbases up to 50″ and tires as wide as 4.8″ when used with the Phat Bike Kit. The adjustable front tire cradle system allows riders to fine-tune spacing between bikes, minimizing handlebar and seatpost interference. A standout convenience feature is the hands-free foot-assisted pivot lever, which makes lowering or raising the rack a breeze—even with bikes already loaded.

Security is also top-notch. The NV 2.0 comes with integrated cable locks for both bikes and a hitch-pin lock, all sharing the same key for simplicity. Another unique inclusion is the Trail Doc repair stand—a built-in, tool-free bike maintenance arm that folds out from the rack, making trailside or parking-lot repairs easy and efficient.

Overall, the NV 2.0 combines smart design, high-capacity hauling, and striking looks into one of the best hitch racks on the market today.

Pros:

1. Heavy‑duty yet visually stylish : aircraft‑grade aluminum feels durable, and the grey‑metal/orange scheme is standout

2. E‑bike & MTB ready : supports up to 60 lb bikes and tires up to 4.8″ wide (with the Phat kit)

3. Easy hands‑free operation : the foot‑pivot design simplifies deployment with bikes mounted
4. Excellent security : integrated frame locks + locking hitch pin, all keyed alike
5. Integrated Trail Doc stand : simplifies field maintenance without extra gear
6. Expandable : optional +1 or +2 add‑on available (2″ version only) to carry 3–4 bikes (capacity per tray decreases with add‑ons)

Cons:

1. Heavy (≈52 lb) : install once and leave it—significant bulk to remove or store regularly

2. Pricey : premium features come with a premium tag—typically $850‑900 for 2‑bike base

3. Ratcheting arm can stick : tightening over the front tire sometimes feels sticky or sticky-smooth compared to competitors like Thule T2

4. Extra hardware for some bikes : 20–24″ wheels require adapters; fat bikes require the Phat Bike Kit (~$15)

Why We Love It:

The SRAM RED XG‑1290 10‑33t cassette perfectly balances range, precision, and lightweight craftsmanship for demanding cyclists. Built on SRAM’s X‑Range gearing platform and engineered specifically for wireless shifting via eTap AXS, it delivers a wide yet usable gear spread—starting with a 10‑tooth cog and stepping through gears in mostly one‑tooth increments—offering both rapid sprint performance and smooth climbing transitions. This tight progression ensures you're almost always in the right gear.

Crafted as a one‑piece machined-steel X‑Dome structure, the cassette stays remarkably light while maintaining rigidity and long‑term durability. Roadies and racers especially appreciate how crisp and quiet shifting feels under load—a trait that stands out even among other high-end cassettes.

It features an elegant silver finish (E1 spec), which complements modern high-performance builds beautifully. Designed for use with SRAM’s XDR driver bodies, it ensures compatibility with most modern road wheels and hubs without requiring adapters.

Pros:

1. Wide yet precise gear range : 10‑33t offers flexibility for everything from flat sprints to steep climbs. The small 10t cog gives extra top-end speed when needed.
2. Ultra‑light, one‑piece X‑Dome design : Strength and stiffness in a minimal package contribute to responsive ride feel and lower rotating mass.
3. Superb electronic shifting performance : Built for eTap AXS, it shifts fluidly and quickly, with whisper‑quiet operation.
4. Elegant aesthetics : The silver finish pairs well with premium components and frames.
5. Durable and dependable : Designed for high mileage and aggressive riding while maintaining consistent performance.

Cons:

1. Premium price point : This cassette comes at a higher cost compared to mid-range options.
2. Marginally reduced longevity vs mid‑range options : Some riders may find that wear appears a bit sooner than with heavier steel cassettes.
3. Excess gear options for some riders : The 10‑tooth cog may go unused unless descending at very high speeds.

Why We Love It:

The Thule Gateway Pro stands out as a refined hanging-style trunk rack, offering a balance of convenience, stability, and bike frame protection for riders who prefer hitchless mounting. It fits most sedans, hatchbacks, and SUVs through a patented FitDial system and six-strap tightening arrangement—no tools needed—which means easy setup without drilling or a hitch.

A key advantage is the built-in anti-sway cradles and generous 7‑inch spacing between bikes, which keep handlebars and pedals from fouling each other or the car. Each bike secures quickly via ratcheting cradle straps, and the rack folds down flat for compact storage. An integrated cable lock (compatible with Thule One-Key) secures bikes to the rack, while an optional lock strap helps tether the rack to the vehicle.

At just under 15 lb for the 3-bike version (about 13.7 lb for the two-bike model), the Gateway Pro is light and space‑efficient. It also supports carbon frames and rear of vehicles without needing a hitch—just be sure to follow the dial‑fit guide carefully to ensure compatibility.

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  Marathon Plus  isn’t just another commuter tire—it’s the commuter tire. It’s earned a reputation for being nearly impervious to punctures , thanks to its 5mm thick SmartGuard layer that shrugs off glass shards, thorns, and road debris with ease. The 26 x 1.75 size offers a comfortable ride, enough volume for some light gravel, and durability that seems to last forever.

Whether you're riding through the city or planning an extended tour, this tire lets you focus on the ride—not roadside repairs. Plus, it’s E-bike rated and has reflective sidewalls for added safety. This is a tire you put on and forget—because it just works.

Pros:

1. Unmatched Puncture Resistance :
   • The SmartGuard belt is among the toughest on the market.
2. Long Tread Life :
   • Designed to go thousands of miles with consistent performance.
3. Reliable Grip :
   • Safe for wet pavement and urban debris.
4. Reflective Sidewalls :

   • Great visibility for night riding

5. E-bike Certified :

   • Built for higher-speed riding with extra load durability.

6. Low Maintenance :

   • "Set it and forget it" tire for worry-free use.

Cons:

1. Heavier than Average :
   • The trade-off for durability is extra weight.
2. Rolling Resistance :
   • Slightly slower than more performance-focused tires.
3. Stiff Bead :
   • Can be tricky to mount by hand, especially for beginners.
4. Not Ideal for Loose Terrain :
   • Better suited for pavement and hard-packed surfaces.