First Look Friday is an introduction to the gear that we are currently testing for review. This week we’ve got the Momsen AL229; the Astute Italia Skycarb VT Saddle; and a selection of Specialized road tyres.
Momsen AL229
The Momsen AL229 is an entry level 29er alloy hardtail, featuring Momsen’s new LSG (Long Slack Geometry) design for increased stability, comfort, and control.
The AL229 comes with a SR Suntour XCR 32 RL-R air fork with a remote lockout and rebound adjust, a Shimano 3 x 9 Acera drivetrain, and Shimano M365 hydraulic brakes. The bike retails for R10,995.00.
Momsen AL229 Specifications
- Frame2017 RaceTech TWO Alloy, Exclusive LSG Design, Integrated Toptube Box ( I.T.B ), Tapered Headtube Profile
- Speed27-Speed
- SizesSmall, Medium, Large, X-Large
- ForkSR Suntour XCR32 RL-R, 100mm Travel, Air Adjust, Remote Lockout with Rebound Adjust
- Rear ShockN/A
- BrakesShimano M365 Hydraulic / SM-RT10 Centerlock Rotors / 160mm Front and Rear
- CranksetShimano M351 44/32/22T
- Front DerailleurShimano M370 Altus
- Rear DerailleurShimano M3000 Acera
- ShiftersShimano M3000 Acera Trigger
- HandlebarMomsen Oversize Flat Wide Alloy, 700mm, 6 Degree Sweep, 31.8mm Oversize
- StemMomsen Alloy Forged , 31.8mm Oversize
- HubsShimano RM33 Centerlock
- RimWeinmann XM260 Alloy Doublewall, Custom Decal, 32H
- SaddleMomsen 2017 Custom, Satin Steel Rail
- SeatpostMomsen Alloy, 31.6mm
- TyresCST Jack Rabbit, 27tpi Wire Bead, 29 x 2.10 Front and Rear
- Estimated Retail PriceR10,995.00
Astute Italia Skycarb VT Saddle
Astute Italia is a Italian company that specializes in the design and manufacturer of high end saddles. The Skycarb uses a pair of ultra thin carbon shells and 3k carbon rails to help keep weight down to 140 grams. Despite its lightness, Astute claims high levels of comfort thanks to their triple-density memory foam as well as Astute’s shock pad absorber system damping, sandwiched between rails and hull.
The Astute Skycarb is distributed locally by Cycling J&J and is available from their dealers for R6,000.
Specialized Road Tyres
Turbo Cotton:
The Turbo Cotton is a lightweight racing tyre from Specialized with a super supple cotton casing for increased grip, reduced rolling resistance and smooth ride quality.
Casing: 320 TPI Polycotton
Bead: Foldable
Compound: GRIPTON
Flat Protection: BlackBelt
Weight: 2700 x 24mm; psi 115-125; approximate weight 220g
Price: R940
Turbo Pro:
The Turbo Pro is a lightweight rubber racing tyre, designed to be fast, light, and tough for competitive racing.
Casing: 60 TPI
Bead: Foldable
Compound: GRIPTON
Flat Protection: BlackBelt
Weight: 700 x 24mm; psi 100-125; approximate weight 240g
Price: R470
Roubaix Pro:
The Roubaix Pro is a high strength endurance road tyre, designed to be fast, and durable for mixed terrain riding.
Casing: 120 TPI
Bead: Foldable
Compound: GRIPTON
Flat Protection: Endurant Casing and BlackBelt
Weight: 700 x 23mm/25mm; psi 115-125; approximate weight 260g
Price: R565
All Condition Armadillo Elite:
The All Condition Armadillo Elite is a tough, flat resistant tyre designed to offer all weather traction and puncture protection without compromising on performance.
Casing: 120 TPI
Bead: Foldable
Compound: GRIPTON
Flat Protection: Armadillo Elite
Weight: 700 x 23mm; psi 110-125; approximate weight 285g
Price: R660
6k for a saddle!!!