Innovations on tap at Eurobike 2015

The wider tire is said to be suited for bikes that take on a wide variety of terrains and uses, but especially in the rapidly growing e-mountain bikes category (bleh – Ed.). It is a category in which the somewhat wider tires can make full use of their traction potential, yet in which their slightly increased weight plays little role.

“Split” refers to the introduction of new sizing methodologies that try and put the right size wheel with the right size bike for the best riding experience.  For example, next year a manufacturer may sell a size S mountain bike model equipped with 650b wheels alongside the same model in size M that offers a choice between 605b and 29ers, next to a size L that is only available with 29ers.

“Boost” is also about width, but not in the tire. As gearing has gone from 8 to 9, up to 11 speeds, traditional hub widths have not changed to go with the additional gears. We are now starting to see both front and rear hubs that are getting a 10mm  and 6mm boost (respectively) in width. Hubs that have been widened are intended to provide broader support to spokes, thereby ensuring more stability.

Width is also playing a part in road bikes as many frames are now being designed to accommodate 28mm tires. While just a few years ago, racing purists would have turned up their noses at anything wider than a 23c, the wider 28mm tires are now being regularly adopted for their additional comfort and grip.

Last but not least, there’s “direct mount”. While the pros are still debating the safety and efficacy of disk brakes, there are starting to make stronger inroads into the recreational/enthusiast road market. One complaint about disk brakes has always been the added weight, but new direct mount, an elegant mounting standard for brake calipers on racing bikes will reduce the weight difference between rim and disk brakes to just a few hundred grams.

Eurobike starts on Tuesday, August 25th in  Friedrichshafen, Germany.