Quick release has been a standard feature on higher end bicycle wheels for decades, but there is a new game in town that could have the fast draw on the old school quick release. This is the SPEEDrelease hub, which offers a quick take down of quick release, but offers the added benefits of thru-axles.
Developed by Topolino Technology the SPEEDrelease promises quick wheel changes along with a more solid wheel connection. This is because while thru-axles are designed to be stiffer and thus safer than traditional quick release axles it isn’t without its faults. The SPEEDrelease system incorporates a permanently-attached skewer that runs through the center of the axle. It is also ideal for closed dropouts and ideal for road disc applications.
In other words it could be truly a best of both worlds product. It is one of those that begs the question why someone didn’t come up with it sooner? Continue reading Speed Freak
As simple as they look, there is a lot of considerations when lacing up a bike wheel. Beyond selecting the brand of hub and rim, a lot of focus also needs to be placed on the spokes and nipples. Not just the number, but material, butting, length, tension, and weight all need to be factored along with color. In the U.S., DT Swiss and Wheelsmith have been the longtime favorite of wheel builders, but there is a Belgium manufacturer who has been making spokes for decades longer than both companies combined. Started in 1918 by Herman Schoonhoven, Sapim (Société Anonyme Pour l’Industrie des Métaux) has been making spokes and nipples in Belgium for well over 90 years. 
It is starting to feel like that time of the year when riding moves from the outdoors to the indoors. As the weather cools, and as it gets dark earlier many cyclists opt to hit the trainer instead of the road. Most rear wheel trainers thus raise the back end of the bike, which results in a feeling of going downhill – something that can effect balance and the quality of the ride on the trainer.