Australian Mountain Bike - AMB

1 week ago | ambmag.com.au | Mike Blewitt

SRAM has been overhauling their brakes over the last two years. First, the DB8 with a switch to mineral oil among other changes, then last year’s release of the Maven monster stoppers. And they’re back at it with the brand-new Motive – a lightweight four-piston brake system targeting downcountry and trail riders – and also finding a home on the rigs of World Cup cross country racers, too. SRAM’s simplified lineup now consists of three main families: Maven, Motive, and DB.

1 week ago | ambmag.com.au | Mike Blewitt

In March, SRAM declared that the gear cable is not dead, with the introduction of the Eagle 90 and Eagle 70 Mechanical Transmission groupsets; cable-actuated drivetrains that use the T-Type platform – ditching electronics, mostly. Both groups use SRAM’s Full Mount interface (UDH), offering the same hangerless durability and frame interface as their premium AXS electronic systems – but without the need for batteries or wireless connections.

1 month ago | ambmag.com.au | Max Hobson |Lachlan Ryan |Mattie Gould |Limmel Co

Bikepacking in Australia is tough, remote and spectacular all at the same time. It boasts open landscapes through rough, rugged country roads and firetrails, to historic rail trails, Australia offers some of the best bike packing adventures for cyclists to explore. Whether you’re pub packing (staying at local pubs), bikepacking (camping), or ultra endurance cycling, your experience on the bike is going to vary widely.

Feb 4, 2025 | ambmag.com.au | Mike Blewitt

Just ahead of Red Bull Hardline Maydena, SRAM upped the ante in the brake game, releasing the Maven – the new expert of brakes. SRAM’s new 4-piston brake is touted to the most powerful brake that SRAM have made, with 50% more power than SRAM’s own Code, which is already a very capable brake. But that’s not to say it’s all power without control. They also state that modulation is impressive as well.

Feb 3, 2025 | ambmag.com.au | Mike Blewitt

Merida completely overhauled their Silex gravel bike in late 2023, with the new model even winning the 2023 men’s Gravel World Championships, just days before it was launched. While pro riders can win on a range of equipment, Merida did a lot of work on the Silex. By all accounts, the original Silex rode well, but it had copped a flogging with the ugly stick. The new Merida Silex 700 is sleeker and a whole lot more capable both between the tape – and loaded up.