Time flies, and 2025 was no exception—but it was a year packed with incredible cycling innovations and experiences. The cycling world is evolving faster than ever, and keeping up can feel overwhelming. But here's the silver lining: it's an exhilarating era for cyclists of all kinds. The gear just keeps getting better, and I'm here to share the highlights from my year of testing and riding.
A little about me: I'm Jeremy, a Reno-based cycling enthusiast with roots in the Tahoe-Truckee area. I've been mountain biking since the early '90s and have since fallen for gravel biking and endurance racing. I avoid road riding due to traffic fears but love every other form of cycling. I've been writing, testing, and reviewing cycling gear full-time for eight years, including two and a half years with BikeRumor. My passion lies in combining riding, gear obsession, and writing for our audience.
Trails and Trail Organizations: Trails are the backbone of mountain biking, and their creation and maintenance are labor-intensive. In my region, organizations like the Biggest Little Trail Stewardship, Tahoe Area Mountain Bike Association, and Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship are doing remarkable work. The latter is undertaking the Connected Communities Project, aiming to link 15 rural communities with 300 miles of single-track trails—a massive boost for recreation and local economies. Volunteering or donating to these groups is a great way to support their efforts.
Bikes: Short-travel bikes have evolved significantly. The Yeti ASR XC race bike and Salsa Spearfish impressed me with their lightweight, versatile designs. The Kona Hei Hei, with its slightly beefier build, offers a great balance for trail riding. Electric mountain bikes, once controversial, have won me over. The S-Works Turbo Levo 4 and Yeti LTe showcase the potential of eMTBs, offering extended range and capabilities without compromising fun.
Components: Roval's Traverse HD carbon wheels have proven indestructible, handling harsh impacts with ease. Schwalbe's Radial tires, initially skeptical, delivered exceptional performance when properly inflated. OneUp's Carbon V2 handlebar and their new SPD-compatible pedals are game-changers for comfort and consistency. Wolf Tooth's CTRL pedals offer excellent lateral support and smooth clipping.
Wireless Droppers and Cable-Actuated Shifting: Wireless droppers like the Fox Transfer Neo and RockShox Reverb AXS offer convenience, but cable-actuated shifting remains reliable. SRAM's Eagle 90 Transmission impressed me with its performance, rivaling wireless options.
Accessories and Apparel: Fox's Enduro Pro Knee Guards provide comfort and protection, while CrankBrothers' Mallet Trail Boa shoes offer a perfect blend of efficiency and walkability. EVOC's Hydro Pro 1.5 hydration vest and Velocio's Ultralight Trail Pants are standout apparel choices. Schwalbe's Clik Valves could revolutionize tire inflation, but industry adoption remains a hurdle.
Gadgets: Exposure Lights' Six Pack 15 and Zenith 4 are top-tier for night riding. Electric mini-pumps, like the ToPeak E-Booster, are a game-changer for emergency inflation. Kitworks' Gear Tote offers a modular, durable solution for gear storage.
Beyond Cycling: Running and backcountry skiing provide excellent cross-training and outdoor enjoyment. Path Projects' running shorts and backcountry lodge trips in BC are highlights.
Parting Thoughts: 2025 was a stellar year for cycling advancements. While I've shared my favorites, the choices are based on performance and personal experience, not sponsorships. Here's to health, happiness, and more riding in 2026. What gear innovations are you most excited about? Let's discuss in the comments!
