Revolutionizing MTB Riding Experience
Listen, if you're in the mood for an adrenaline rush, a touch of chaos, and a raw connection with Mother Nature, there's no better way than hopping on a mountain bike and hitting some thrilling, rocky trails. And today, let's talk about an essential gear that's been making some noise in the MTB community. I'm not referring to some frivolous embellishment; it's about OChain – a cunningly crafted crank spider that's transforming the way we ride.
OChain is more than a piece of hardware; it's a companion that understands your ride. Imagine being inspired by the chainless downhill runs of the MTB legends Aaron Gwin and Neko Mulally. The exhilaration, the connection with every turn and bump, the extreme braking performance, the fluidity of movement – it's a mountain biker's nirvana. But there's more to it.
Chainless riding also implies a more substantial feel of travel and a saggy suspension while pumping. It's where OChain becomes a game-changer. It provides an active feel in your suspension, almost mimicking that chainless sensation while also reducing pedal kickback. It isolates transmission effects from rear suspension when needed, which is quite a feat to achieve in standard setups.
And the beauty of OChain lies in its versatility. It offers three-degree optional setups – 6°, 9°, and 12°. You're in control, shaping your ride the way you want, responding to the different terrains and riding conditions.
OChain offers a variety of options suitable for Shimano, Bosch, Raceface, and SRAM setups, available in both Nero (black) and Pregio (silver) designs. At a glance, they seem a bit on the pricey side, hovering around $330-$360. However, consider the innovation and the potential to enhance your ride. These spiders are crafted with Al Alloy 7075 T6, boasting the toughness required for rugged trails. And, they manage to keep the weight minimal at 128 grams.
I especially find the ‘Superboost' variation intriguing, offering an extra kick for the thrill-seekers. These are not just any crank spiders; they're finely tuned to maximize your connection with the ride. Each OChain is meticulously designed to hold a single chain retaining ring, and it can support drivetrain speeds ranging from 9 to 12.
The OChain might be a new component in the MTB setup, but its potential impact is immense. It's about understanding the rhythm of the ride and making it work for you. It is a step towards more intuitive and exhilarating riding experiences. Whether you're an amateur or an experienced rider, OChain seems like a worthy companion to consider.
Get out there. Feel the rush of wind, the grit, the unadulterated joy of exploring trails. And let your OChain equipped MTB be your partner in these adventures. No matter the terrain, the OChain is ready to ride it with you.
Remember, there is no perfect setup, only the one that makes you connect with the ride at its best. And for some, that could very well be the OChain. Let it be the chain to your wild, mountainous endeavors.
PROS
- Unique Design & Functionality: OChain offers a unique approach to mountain biking by mimicking the feel of chainless riding. This novel design can provide a smoother ride, less pedal kickback, and better braking performance.
- Versatility: With its three-degree optional setups (6°, 9°, and 12°), riders can personalize their experience according to different terrains and conditions.
- Compatibility: The OChain crank spiders are compatible with several major brands, including Shimano, Bosch, Raceface, and SRAM. This ensures that a wide variety of bikers can benefit from this technology.
- Quality Material: The use of Al Alloy 7075 T6 ensures a robust and durable product that can withstand rugged conditions.
CONS
- Price: OChain crank spiders are a bit expensive compared to traditional crank spiders, with prices ranging from $330-$360. This could be a deterrent for some riders, especially those on a tight budget.
- Weight: Although made of lightweight material, at 128 grams, there are lighter crank spiders on the market. For some riders, especially those focused on speed or uphill riding, this could be a disadvantage.
- Limited Market Testing: Given that OChain is a relatively new product, there may not be as many user reviews and long-term performance data available compared to more established products.
- Complexity of Setup: With its unique design and the need to choose the right degree setup, OChain could be a bit more complex to install and fine-tune compared to standard crank spiders.
Remember, every product, even an innovative one like OChain, will have its pros and cons. It ultimately depends on your personal riding style, your bike's compatibility, and your willingness to invest in a new kind of riding experience.
$330-$360
