I’m an addict. There isn’t a 12-step program or prescription in existence that can help me. The only cure to my ailment involves my hands grasping the bars, my feet secured to the pedals, and dirt beneath my tires. The other week, as I joyously gallivanted through the woods on my steel horse getting my fix, I passed an old section of trail. That old section of trail got the wheels in my head turning. I used to ride that section of trail nearly 20 years ago when my dad first took me mountain biking as a kid. Most people my age have no idea how much the sport of mountain biking has changed and evolved. Those loose, washed out, rocky, gravel trails that charge straight up and over hills are a thing of the past. They have given way to new trails that twist, wind, and turn in a smooth yet technical manner, effectively utilizing terrain to the fullest extent.

Gianni Piva launched his first MTB shoe under the Northwave brand in 1993 after extensive research and development in the sport shoe industry. The first shoe dubbed the Integral would transition the traditional black cycling shoe to a thing of the past just like those loose gravel hills. The new era of shoes are as colorful as the new sections of trail. The first shoe would come in red and yellow, the company’s colors. Northwave shoes would soon be donned by some of the world’s leading racers such as Paola Pezzo and Alessandro de Bertollis. The latest top of the line Northwave shoes, the Extreme Tech MTB, are worn by the likes of world champion racers José Antonio Hermida Ramos and Gunn-Rita Dahle Flesjå.

The Extreme Tech employs all of Northwave’s latest technologies. The shoe features ultralight construction with microinjected reinforced protection from branches, rocks, or other debris. Speedlight carbon 3-D soles offer excellent power transfer and rubber studs provide traction when it is impossible to pedal. The extreme air footbed is well vented, ultralight, anallergenic, and antibacterial. The SBS instep strap and speedlace winch closing system allow for precise pressure adjustment when strapping up. The shoe is offered in matte black, black and white, as well as green and orange.

Northwave Extremem Tech MTB Black

When I began looking for a new pair of shoes to replace my Sidi Dominators I wanted something different – something that I wouldn’t see on the feet of ten other guys lining up at the next race or on a Sunday ride. I first saw Northwave shoes at a Pro XCT event several years ago. The sleek styling and flashy colors caught my eye. Now the proud owner of a pair of Extreme Techs, I couldn’t be happier with my decision. I quickly fell in love with the strap and lace systems. The strap has a button that allows for micro-adjustments on the fly and the speedlace system cinches up in a snap making it easy to get the perfect pressure even while on the bike. The carbon sole is incredibly stiff, which in turn makes it ultraefficient. The extreme air footbed is incredibly comfortable, and the multiple vents keep my feet cool and feeling fresh even on long, epic rides.

The shoe wore in quickly. Minimal stitching means less opportunity for blowouts at the seams. The price point on this shoe is excellent as well, as it’s not uncommon to pay another $200 for similar quality and technology from other manufacturers. And design wise, the shoes look ridiculously hot. Though they may not make me ride as fast as Ramos, they make me feel like I do!

Northwave Extremem Tech MTB Orange

If you’re looking for an ultralight, high-end, stylish shoe the Extreme Tech will not fail you. This shoe gives you exactly what you would expect from an Italian shoe-maker: comfort, quality, style, and performance, with the only thing missing being the high price tag.  In addition to shoes, Northwave also offers a line of clothing, glasses, and snowboarding gear, with some of my other favorite Northwave MTB Gear in the slideshow below . As for the Extreme Tech, they are on top of the podium.

Check the photo gallery below for the rest of my favorite picks from Northwave that are perfect for Fall riding.

David Fackler, bike enthusiast, Cannondale representative and thrill seeker, spends his free time driving his Mercedes-Benz Vito into the mountains for a rush and a sense of peace that can only be had by speeding down a mountain on two-wheels. Thankfully for David, biking is both his hobby and his job.

A mountain bike inspired by the new Mercedes‑AMG GT has been developed for the toughest off-road conditions on the basis of professional feedback from the top athletes in the AMG ROTWILD MTB racing team. The ROTWILD GT S inspired by AMG combines the very best of racing technology on four and two wheels: dynamism, lightweight construction, design and comfort. The special model limited to 100 examples combines ultra high-performance materials with highly sophisticated suspension technology and a unique design idiom. Even during the development stage the ROTWILD GT S inspired by AMG demonstrated its remarkable qualities with a world championship title for the juniors.

The ROTWILD GT S

The ROTWILD GT S inspired by AMG is already the second mountain bike to be jointly presented by Mercedes-AMG and Rotwild. The full-suspension R.X45 AMG carbon-fibre mountain bike entered the market in 2013. With the ROTWILD GT S inspired by AMG, the sports car and performance brand within Mercedes-Benz and the internationally renowned manufacturer of high-end mountain bikes are now setting new standards for high-performance mountain bikes. Specifically developed for sporting competitions, all the components meet the highest racing requirements. According to Rotwild general manager Peter Schlitt: “Just as AMG, we have paid very particular attention to the ride dynamics and fitted only the best technology for the ROTWILD GT S. As a result ride enjoyment lives up to expectations, even under the harshest of conditions.” Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG: “The mixture of bike racing, an unmistakable design and German engineering expertise is the connecting link between AMG and Rotwild. Our shared passion for high-performance products will continue to inspire our partnership in the future.”

The ROTWILD GT S

High-end on two wheels: the ROTWILD GT S inspired by AMG

Thanks to new technologies specifically developed by Rotwild and top-quality components, the ROTWILD GT S inspired by AMG impresses in every aspect. The frame was systematically designed with light weight and suspension comfort in mind. High-tech such as Carbon Module Monocoque Technology (MMT2) and EPS Innermold Technology is used, optimising the performance and attributes of the high-modulus carbon fibre. The result is an ultra-lightweight frame with optimum rigidity and ideal damping characteristics. The Formula 33 Factory front fork likewise combines light weight with high rigidity, contributing to consistent riding comfort with adjustable compression and rebound. The effect is completed by 29‑inch carbon-fibre wheels whose unique design keeps the rotating masses as low as possible. Centring the masses around the wheel hub allows fast acceleration and braking.

The mountain bike is equipped with Shimano XTR drive technology actuated by electronic gearshifting. This features a multi-shift function and allows several gears to be shifted in sequence. This individually adjustable function ensures an efficient power transfer, short operating movements and reliable, fast and smooth gearshifts. The brakes were also developed for sporting competition. Weighing only 267 grams, the hydraulic Formula AMG R1 Racing FCS disc brake is among the lightest on the market.

However, “Inspired by AMG” not only applies with respect to the technology of the ROTWILD GT S, but also to its expressive design. The paintwork is in distinctive, contrasting solarbeam and carbon black, and is inspired by the Mercedes-AMG GT. Every detail of the mountain bike stands for sheer sportiness and dedication. The ROTWILD GT S inspired by AMG will enter the market together with an attractive, high-quality equipment package in May 2015. This contains everything the dedicated mountain biker requires: from a transport bag and a damper setup pump to the most important repair tools. From May, this hand-built carbon-fibre bike will be available as a limited edition of 100 examples from the ROTWILD sales organisation at a price of €9990.

The ROTWILD GT S

Cooperation at the highest level

Intensive cooperation between the two high-performance brands of Mercedes-AMG and ROTWILD began in 2013, with the full-suspension “R.X45 AMG” carbon-fibre bike whose appearance and style was reminiscent of the “Edition 1” variant of the Mercedes-Benz A 45 AMG. Presentation of the joint professional mountain bike team followed in 2014.
Technical data of the ROTWILD GT S inspired by AMG

Technical data of the ROTWILD GT S inspired by AMG

AMG, the performance brand within Mercedes-Benz, and Rotwild, the internationally renowned manufacturer of high-end mountainbikes, are intensifying their cooperation. The mountainbike professionals of the Rotwild team are entering the 2014 mountainbike season with AMG as a new name-giving sponsor. During a team presentation in Affalterbach, AMG general manager Tobias Moers and Rotwild general manager Peter Schlitt introduced the new AMG Rotwild MTB racing team.

AMG, the performance brand within Mercedes-Benz, and Rotwild, the internationally renowned manufacturer of high-end mountainbikes, are intensifying their cooperation. The mountainbike professionals of the Rotwild team are entering the 2014 mountainbike season with AMG as a new name-giving sponsor. The team consists of the two U23 riders Lukas Baum and Sofia Wiedenroth (left), and the elite lady rider Nadine Rieder (rigth).

Intensive cooperation between the two high-performance brands already commenced last year: to mark their partnership, Mercedes-AMG and Rotwild offered the full-suspension “R.X45 AMG” carbon-fibre bike whose appearance and style was reminiscent of the “Edition 1” variant of the Mercedes-Benz A 45 AMG. This mixture of race technology, unmistakable design and German engineering expertise is also the connecting link between AMG and Rotwild for future projects. Following this first successful project, the two German high-end brands are now going a step further with the presentation of a joint professional mountainbike team.

“Our brand was born on the racetrack – and to this day, our commitment to racing is of central importance to Mercedes-AMG,” said Tobias Moers, general manager of Mercedes-AMG GmbH, during the presentation of the new racing team. “In Rotwild we have found a partner with whom we can also intensify this commitment in the sport of cycle racing. We are therefore looking forward to the coming season with Rotwild, and have our fingers crossed for our joint team in the hope that they will be just as successful on two wheels as our racing cars are on four.” Peter Schlitt, general manager of Rotwild, added: “AMG and Rotwild stand for top performance and efficiency – hand-made in Germany. In the past both premium brands have set standards in their sectors with respect to technical innovations and sporting success. This strong partnership will make us even more of a force to reckon with. We are looking forward to an exciting season, and wish the riders the best of luck.”

Mercedes-AMG sponsors the AMG Rotwild mountainbike racing team

The AMG Rotwild MTB racing team

The AMG Rotwild MTB racing team works together with the top brands in the biking sector. Each partner is dedicated to racing, engineering and performance. The mobility needs of the team are also amply catered for. Apart from on their Rotwild R2 racing bikes, the athletes also show a sporty presence on the road with their Mercedes-Benz GLA 45 AMG.

The team consists of the two U23 riders Lukas Baum and Sofia Wiedenroth, and the elite lady rider Nadine Rieder. In the coming season these three will take to the starting line wearing the livery of the new AMG Rotwild MTB racing team. Apart from the UCI MTD Worldcup, the programme of events includes the national and international championships, the German MTB league championship and major European bike festivals. The highlights of the season are the German Worldcup race in Albstadt, the European championship in St. Wendel and the world championships in Hafjell, Norway (1 to 6 September 2014). Following their major successes in the last season, Lukas Baum and Sofia Wiedenroth intend to establish themselves in the U23 class this year. In 2013 Nadine Rieder was the fastest German lady sprinter. Her focus for the coming season is clear: precious metal in the short-distance events and placings in the World Cup.

2013 was one of the most successful seasons in the 18-year racing history of the German high-end brand Rotwild. Lukas Baum became junior world and European champion. He also won the gold in the German championship. His team colleague Sofia Wiedenroth triumphed with gold and silver in the German and European championships, and fourth place in the world championship.

The team is completed by the Canadian Richie Schley. He is a Rotwild brand ambassador, and is regarded as one of the world’s best freeriders. As a founder of the freeriding movement, he will demonstrate his versatility during selected European endurance races.

AMG, the performance brand within Mercedes-Benz, and Rotwild, the internationally renowned manufacturer of high-end mountainbikes, are intensifying their cooperation. The mountainbike professionals of the Rotwild team are entering the 2014 mountainbike season with AMG as a new name-giving sponsor. The team consists of the two U23 riders Lukas Baum (right) and Sofia Wiedenroth, and the elite lady rider Nadine Rieder (left).

A portrait: the riders in the team

Lukas Baum

As a junior in the 2013 season, Lukas Baum was the most successful German mountainbiker. With his triple championship wins – gold in the German championships, the European championships and, to crown it all, the world championship, he celebrated the perfect season with his team colleagues. Following the change to the U23 class, Lukas plans to establish himself here in the coming season and immediately take the offensive. Team manager Danny Herz is quietly confident: “Lukas will not be content to stay with the pack, he always has a surprise in store.” In the World Cup Lukas Baum has his eyes on the Top 10, and on the rostrum for the German championship. The highlight of the season will then be the European championships in St. Wendel, Saarland.

• Name Lukas Baum, born on 28 February 1995, Speyer
• Resident in Neustadt/Weinstrasse
• Coach Wolfram Kurschat
• Club RSC Neustadt

Sofia Wiedenroth

European lady vice-champion and multiple German champion: Sofia’s track record becomes more impressive from year to year. Team manager Danny Herz is enthusiastic: “Sofia’s strength is her riding technique.” Fast bends, blocked stretches or jumps – Sofia has them under control. When preparing for the new season she developed a knee problem, therefore she has added new training routines. She has ambitious plans for the new racing class: achieving the Top 15 in the U23 class is a possibility. The planning for the season is aimed at good results in the world championships in September 2014.

• Name Sofia Wiedenroth, born on 30 January 1995, Augsburg
• Resident in Niederstaufen, near Lindau on Lake Constance
• Coaches Rolf Frey, Peter Schaupp
• Club TSV Niederstaufen

Nadine Rieder

Nadine Rieder particularly excelled in the sprint in 2013. As the fastest German lady rider, she only failed to achieve a podium position by a hair’s breadth in the world championship. She also produced good results in the marathon, however. To develop her strengths even further, multi-talented Nadine trains on skis, in the weights gym, on a dirtbike and with a freerider. Her focus for the 2014 season is on sprinting and cross-country. Her goal is clear: a world championship medal.

• Name Nadine Rieder, born on 17 July 1989
• Resident in Sonthofen
• Coach Wolfram Kurschat
• Club RSV Sonthofen

The racing bike of the AMG Rotwild MTB racing team

The AMG Rotwild MTB racing team is placing its confidence in the R.R2 HT 29 for the 2014 season. The frame of the ROTWILD 29 race hardtail is based on the high-performance carbon-fibre technology MMT2 – an in-house development by Rotwild. In this modular monocoque construction, the frame is laminated section by section using carbon-fibre modules. The result is an extremely resilient frame designed specifically for racing. The R2 translates the performance ideal to the racetrack. For more power transfer in a race the pedal crank is of maximum rigidity, while the special shape of the handlebar optimises steering precision on technically demanding stretches. Thanks to uncompromising engineering and systematic attention to performance, the R.R2 HT 29 is considerably more than the sum of its parts.

The bike’s list of features also guarantees acceleration and reliability: the Shimano XTR race components combine high-quality materials such as magnesium, carbon-fibre, titanium and aluminium. The suspension and wheels are supplied by the engineers at DT Swiss, and the bikes of the AMG Rotwild MTB racing team are equipped with a specially configured Custom Team suspension fork. Traction, ground adhesion and speed even under difficult conditions are ensured by Continental Race King tyres with a special Race Sport mixture.

If you’re in the market for an AMG model but your bank account isn’t, we have the perfect solution for you. Inspired by the Mercedes AMG vehicles, it has two wheels instead of four and is powered by your own glutes and quads. Bringing you the AMG branded bike is ROTWILD, a well known manufacturer of premium mountain and touring bikes. Partnering alongside AMG, ROTWILD has planned multiple limited edition two-wheelers. The first bike will be the R.X45 AMG All Mountain bike with a dynamic design and fresh color scheme inspired by the A 45 AMG “Edition 1”. The full suspension carbon fiber bike will be available exclusively from ROTWILD dealers for 6.990 Euros.

“Our aim with this partnership is to bring the AMG brand claim, “Driving Performance”, to two wheels. We chose ROTWILD because the brand has applied a real passion and high level of technical expertise to take bike development to a new level,” says Ola Källenius, Chairman of the Board of Management at Mercedes-AMG GmbH. “Both companies focus on performance and the products elicit the same responses from fans and owners: a racing pulse, excitement and enthusiasm.” ROTWILD’s CEO Peter Schlitt adds that “We are delighted to have found an excellent partner in Mercedes-AMG. In terms of philosophy and direction, the two premium brands are an ideal fit, sharing at their heart independence, German engineering expertise and the desire to set benchmarks in technological development.” Since ROTWILD was founded in 1996, the company has enjoyed steady growth and continues to build on its good reputation in the international mountain biking and racing community.

Kicking off with a high-end mountain bike

To launch their new partnership, Mercedes-AMG and ROTWILD are unveiling the fully sprung, carbon-fibre R.X45 AMG bike. This bike is a genuine all-rounder that is suitable for virtually any terrain and yet stays true to its racing roots. Handmade and developed in Germany, the all mountain bike is designed to meet the requirements of demanding touring riders. To deliver optimum traction, directional stability and excellent responsiveness in a whole range of situations, the R.X45 AMG features the very latest in frame technology. The next-generation frame is made of carbon-fibre and represents a technological highlight that incorporates the combined expertise of developers at ROTWILD. The R.X45 AMG’s rugged, lightweight and cutting-edge frame is designed to withstand extreme conditions, allowing the rider to unleash their true performance potential on all terrain.

In terms of look and feel, the bike’s design is inspired by “Edition 1” of the Mercedes-Benz A 45 AMG. The frame in AMG cirrus white, the rear swing arm in matt black and graphite grey, plus red detailing make the bike exceptionally distinctive. All models are handmade and distributed exclusively by ROTWILD.

With the 2010 Tour de France officially underway, we thought we’d turn our attention back to the world of cycling for the next few days and more of the requisite cycling gear that goes along with it.  If you’ve spent any amount of time cycling, there’s no doubt been a time when you’ve planned a beautiful day out on your bike, packed your gear, travelled to the perfect location and started your ride, only to discover a mechanical problem with your bike that derails your plans.  In such situations, you’ve got two options.  One – you can pack your gear back up, travel home or to a bike shop, and get your ride back in working order.  Your day’s ruined, but there’s always next time.  Option two – and the option that’s really a must for anyone that loves riding – is the Pedro’s Master Tool Kit 3.0.  It’s the most bad-ass portable biking tool kit available, and no matter what your mechanical misfortunes, it will have your bike up and running in no time flat.

As a self-described tool junkie, I have to tell you – the Pedro’s Master Tool Kit 3.0 is about as lust-inducing as you’re going to get in the world of bike tools.  There’s a total of 65 pieces included with the Master Tool Kit 3.0, all housed in a custom, water tight, pressure regulated, ABS plastic case, backed by a lifetime warranty.  As for what you get, here’s the complete rundown:

• 8pc open/ ratchet box wrenches (8mm-15mm)
• Y Torx Wrench
• Y Wrench 2,2.5,3
• Y Wrench 4,5,6
• Cable Cutter
• Pro Chain Tool 2.0
• Equalizer Pedal Wrench
• 13 -19 mm Cone wrenches
• 5-piece Screwdriver set
• Tire Lever – Yellow pair
• 5,6,8mm hex driver w/ handle
• 10mm Campy hex driver
• GO! low viscosity chain lube, 4oz
• ISIS BB socket
• HG Socket W/O Pin
• Campy lock ring tool/cassette tool
• Universal crank puller with handle
• 3 meter Tape Measure
• Beverage Wrench
• External Bearing BB Socket
• Pro T/L hex set -8pc
• Pro Socket Handle 2.0
• Vise Whip
• Shimano ‘Integrated’ BB Wrench
• 9-piece L hex set
• BB socket holder

An impressive assortment, to say the least, but just as importantly, it all works – and it works very, very well.  Everything is designed precisely to work on your bike, regardless of make, model, year, etc.  And that’s the beauty of Pedro’s Master Tool Kit 3.0.  It doesn’t matter what you ride, you can fix or maintain virtually any major component on the market today.  Pack it up, throw it in the back of your vehicle, and you’ll never again have to worry about a mechanical issue sidelining your ride.  Back at home, you’ll be assembling, disassembling, and fine tuning your bike, just because you can.  Pedro’s tools are a simply a joy to use.

As for which tools of the Pedro’s Master Tool Kit 3.0 are the best, that’s easy:  the best tool is the one you need.  It doesn’t matter how great your cable cutter is, if you need to repair your chain, the best tool is going to be the chain tool, and vice versa.  That being said, I love the Pro Chain Tool 2.0 with its new contoured handle and integrated pin storage.  I love Pedro’s new Vise Whip – a tool that eliminates the need for a traditional chainwhip and makes securing the cassette a utterly simple process.  I love the super comfortable Pedro’s cable cutter.  And I love the new Y Torx wrench – an ingenious tool that includes three of the most popular torx sizes in one location.  But really, I love all the Pedro’s tools, because as I said, on any given day, you never really know what you’re going to need.  With the Pedro’s Master Tool Kit 3.0, you’re covered regardless.

Of course, as with all tools, strength is a must.  Pedro’s tools, whether it’s the tools found in the Master Tool Kit 3.0 or any of their other tools, are designed to last a lifetime.  All Pedro’s tools are backed by a lifetime warranty, save for the Pedro’s Pro Torque and Demi-torque wrenches, Pedro’s Pumps, and Pedro’s Blow Out Bags (each feature a 2-year warranty).  Other than that all Pedro’s are protected against breakage, malfunction, or defect, meaning the Pedro’s tools will likely outlast you.  And even if they don’t, Pedro’s will keep replacing them until they do.  In the world of tools, you can’t get much better than that.

Pricing for the Pedro’s Master Tool Kit 3.0 is set at $939, and it can be ordered from any bike shop that carries Pedro’s tools or from a variety of online retailers.  If you spend any reasonable amount of time on a bike, buy one – it will likely be the last bike tool kit you’ll ever need to buy.  To learn more about any of the Pedro’s lineup of bike tools, you can find more info at their website, Pedros.com.

It’s June, ladies and gentlemen, which means it’s time to get outside and start enjoying the beautiful summer air.  To help you get started, Mercedes has launched their Mercedes-Benz Bike Sports Selection 2009/2010 – a collection of bikes aimed at a diverse of array of cycling enthusiasts.  For the off-road lovers, there’s an aluminum framed full-suspension mountain bike featuring SRAM gearing, Avid Elixier CR disc brakes and a set of DT Swiss X 1800 wheels. The price:  3999 Euros.

If you prefer to stay on the road, you may be interested in the Limited racing bike, weighing in at 6.9 kg and limited in number to only 100 units.  Highlights include a carbon-fiber frame, Carbotec monocoque carbon-fiber fork, SRAM RED 20-speed gears, SRAM RED carbon-fibre pedals and a set of DT Swiss RR 1450 “mon chasseral” RWS wheels in white. The cost:  4999 Euros.

For the more casual riders, the Mercedes-Benz Bike Sports Selection offers two choices: a fitness bike and a trekking bike. The fitness bike, priced at 1099 Euros, features an aluminum frame in Sport or Comfort editions, a suspension fork with 80mm of travel and SRAM X.5 27-speed gears, while the trekking bike (priced at 1349 Euros) also features an aluminum frame in Comfort or Sport versions, a suspension fork with 80mm of travel and SRAM X.5 27-speed gears.  Other highlights include a Shimano hub dynamo, Busch & Müller lights, a metal protective cover and a Topeak luggage rack.

And last but not least, for the space-conscious and children, there are two final options:  a folding bike and a kid’s bike. The folding bike (1699 Euro) boasts a full suspension frame offering 40mm of travel in the front and rear, and when folded, measures 80x80x35 cm.  As for the kid’s bike, it comes in either red or white and costs 299 Euros.