Arc’teryx released a new series of backpacks this season and the one that has been creating some buzz is the Altra series (65 and 75). The 75 won Backpacker Mags Editor choice award. The Altra bags are a combination of an Arc’teryx classic, the Bora and the innovative Naos. I was able to snag the smaller 65 (3967-4577cu) and put some trail miles on it to give you some additional insight into this award winning design. Read Full Post

GUMBA and all the sponsers organized a great Mountain Bike Festival this weekend. It allowed people from all levels to test bikes and ride trails with a guide. Plenty of skills training and discussions took place during the event which made this small event turn out big for those who were lucky enough to attend. Riders were treated to skills clinics and free schwag… as well as an opportunity to test ride bikes offered by Specialized. We got our hands on a pair of GT bikes.

I was able to test ride the 2009 GT Marathon 9r complete with a full XTR setup and the beefy 20mm front XTR hub that I just drooled over. Suprisingly the GT Marathon was well balanced. It climbed with ease whether I set the Fox shock to pro-pedal or turned it off. Descending I had complete control and even gave me the confidence to huck the bike off a rock or two. Its worthy checking out if your looking for a 29er. The front end was stiff with a combination of the Manitou Minute and the XTR beefy 20mm front hub… The wheels rolled amazing and were super stiff around the corners and over rock gardens… actually makes me want to get a pair built for my next 29er bike build…
Here are some more pics taken during the day, when I actually remembered to stop and take pictures… Overall a fun event, recommend coming next year not only to meet great people with the best attitudes but also to ride Minnewaska State park. Scenery is amazing and although the trails are easy they do offer some great climbs and fun downhills.

Earlier this Spring MSR released the Skinny One Solo tent and I picked one up to check out. Read Full Post

Eureka makes some good tents for little money. I’ve used the Spitfire and now the Backcountry. What I like about the Backcountry Read Full Post

After trying silicon glue, duct tape (there are pictures) and a little bit o’luck, the outsole finally detached and my Sidi’s became very expensive SPD flip flops during a recent ride at Ringwood… Those shoes were an awesome fit, light and effective and its been tough to part with those shoes, but now I’ve seen and tested a LAKE.

During a visit to our local camping / outdoor store I picked up a pair of LAKE MX190 shoes. These “all-mountain” shoes look burly and seem as if they will hold up well to the challenging conditions in the North East.
Lake MX190 All Mountain Shoe. Available in Black and Silver. Shoes are a combination leather & mesh with a Micro-step buckle with dual straps.

The outsole is the “Vibram Mountain V with Mudstuds” and is
SPD two-hole compatible.

These shoes are very comfortable and stiff. The buckle adds a secure fit much like the Sidis. The tread pattern is agressive and the “mudstuds” are a must for some of the knarly trail conditions we’ve been experiencing. These shoes are priced competitively to other “all-mountain” shoes and once you try them on… For more information visit LAKE.