Up until the advent of disc brakes track ends were the gold standard for single speed use, but disc brakes can complicate wheel removal if the disc interferes with the caliper when sliding rearward, and aligning the caliper and rotor can get complicated, and easy to do improperly in a rush. The new All-City Nature Boy Disc sports the pictured sliding caliper design that has an integrated chain tensioner for perfect caliper to rotor alignment every time. If you’re really looking to nerd out on the design of this dropout head on over to the All-City blog for detailed posts by lead engineer Anna Schwinn complete with napkin sketches and CAD renderings. www.allcitycycles.com
Meant for those bent on taking their road bikes off of the blacktop, the Panaracer Gravelking is clearly targeting the burgeoning gravel race scene though it should go over well with real-world riders looking for a serious tire with more flat protection than standard road rubber. The pictured 28c version weighs just 267g. Available in 700 x 23, 26 and 28 sizes for about $50 each, with larger volumes promised in the pipeline. www.panaracer.com
The new Surly WorkRide pants sound like some no-B.S. trousers. The all cotton duck-cloth pants come in black or brown and have a number of bike-specific features. Articulated knees, reinforced wear areas, a U-lock keeper and a pair of snaps on the right leg to keep the cuff out of your drivetrain. Available in sizes 30” and 32” x 32” inseam, and 34-40” x 36” inseam. Retail price is $95.
www.surlybikes.com
Chrome is getting into the commuter adventurer pannier game with the Knurled Welded Waterproof Rolltop bags. Waterproof and lightweight are the key features of commuter and touring bags, and these are submersible up to the opening to protect whatever it is that you need to carry on a daily basis. Loops on the outside allow you to carry bonus gear and accessories, and an included quick release rail system allows the bags to securely snap on and off of the bike. Guaranteed for life. Retail price is $160. www.chromeindustries.com