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I should be picking up my new Trek EX8 (09) tomorrow. The only minor complaints I've read about this bike are the tyres and grips. Are they really that bad and worth changing straightaway, and if so any recommendations?
I also haven't got my head around the idea of SPDs, my old Marin has flats and that's all I've ever had. I often use my bike to pop to shops etc and would rather not have to change shoes to do this. Some mates say it's the way to go but I'm not convinced, I wont be entering any races. I saw a Crank Brothers flat that also has an spd mech - are these or any other dual function pedal a good choice? I saw one in a shop, not sure which brand, and although the platform was ok the clip/spd mech was higher than the profile of the flat and I'd of though you would feel a lump on you sole as it's not flush. Anyone use these dual flat/spds?
After years out of mountain biking I really am new to it all. Would appreciate any advice - cheers.
What tyres does it have? My EX9 came with Jones XR's, great in the dry/hard but a Big Earl Wet up front is way more fun to ride with now.
I've got an 08 EX8 - as Tracker says, the stock Jones XR's are great in the dry but as the tread pattern is low, they're rubbish for grip in British mud! Not sure what the grips are on the 09 model but the 08 bike had Bontrager grips which had harder rubber dimples and I didn't find them comfy.
I run with Lizard Skins 'Peaty' lock on grips and Maxxis ADvantage 2.1's now 🙂
Have an 08 EX8. Tyre wise i run Maxxis, either Advantage or Crossmark depending on the time of year. Grips have been changed to Ergo(?) ones as i suffer with carpal tunnel abit, and have got on really well with these. They feel funny at first but get them right and they're really comfy.
As for pedals, i run DX ones. SPD inside a plastic cage. Yes the SPD bit stands up a bit,, this helps when clicking in. But they just rotate down when in use. Great pedals tho.
Hi
I have a 08 EX8.5 (frame failed and was swapped under warrenty to a EX9), but all the rest of the components are EX8. I run wellgo MG1 flats (nice and light flats, good value and have lasted a UK winter no probs). DMR loc on grips. Tyre wise I have a continental gravity on the front and slash on the back (2.3s). I ebayed the original tyres cus they were aweful, and got 30 quid. Great bike - spot on for me with these components.
To mine I've done the following, but once you ride yours you'll have an idea what you might change:
1) Peaty grips
2) Fitted the tubeless rim strip thingys and new tyres (Bontrager ACX). Trailrakers going on soon due to the mud
3) KS adjustable seatpost
4) SPDs - caged ones (the mechanism goes down if you press on them so ideal when not clipped in/popping to the shops)
Cracking bike and top warranty as Trek replaced the seat stays after one of the bolts sheared and caused tyre rub.
If you're not happy with the pedals or tyres, they're easily changed for something more suitable. Call the shop before you leave and see if you can get them swapped before you arrive, it'll be easier and quicker than doing it after the bike's built.
Dual sided spds are a waste o time. They make more prolems than they solve. However, spds on the whole are great- they make things easier. It's easier to ride for longer, and faster.
bonty tyres are all crap, I'd change them and I work for a bonty dealer...
get the tyres and grips changed to something you are happy with in the shop - you'll either have a tyre you like? or the shop can recomend something better.
stick with whatever pedals you want - what your mates think is kind of irrelevant.