Hit the following link to ask Mountain Bike Action a question: mbaction@hi-torque.com


RACE READY
I am 14 years old and going to start racing cross-country in the summer. I just got a 2011 Giant XTC 29er 2. I will have about $1000 for upgrades. Do you think taking some of that money and going 2x10 would be a good idea?        
-Jameson, who likes to go fast
Mountain Bike Action: If you can take weight off your wheels, you will feel the difference right away. The 2x10 is a sweet way to go, but if racing is your thing, lighter wheels will bring down your lap times more than messing with your drivetrain. Your $1000 budget won’t get you carbon-fiber rims, but don’t feel bad. Not that many riders are using carbon fiber because of the expense. Stan’s NoTubes offers the ZTR 29er Race Gold Wheelset for $950. Slap these wheels on that Giant and you will go faster. Remember that these are true race wheels. You are best off saving them for race day only and training on your stock wheels. You can reach the Stan’s guys by clicking here.


BIKE SHOPS RULE
Purchased Easton Haven MTB wheels on craigslist, but got the wrong ones. My bike is a 2009 GT Force 1.0 with Shimano XT Centerlock discs for a 15QR axle system. The Eastons don't say anything about Shimano Centerlock rotors. Can you tell me what size hub will be compatible with my bike?
-Aaron, who needs professional help
Mountain Bike Action: Buying from a private party can save you big bucks, but you have to know what you are looking for. Wheels are especially difficult because there are so many axles, hub widths and brake rotor mounting options to consider. The axles on the Haven wheels will be compatible with your bike. Easton is very good about including adapters for different axle types. Easton includes both a 15mm front and 10x135 quick-release rear adapter with those wheels, which is what the Force uses. Since you bought from a private party, you may have to purchase those adapters.
The rotors are a different story. The Havens are only available in a six-bolt configuration. There’s no adapter that we’re aware of that would make it possible to use the Shimano Centerlock rotors on a six-bolt style hub. Shimano makes the identical rotors in a six-bolt style, and they run about $50 each. To use these wheels, you will have to get a new set of rotors. Also, just so you know, the style of rotor has no effect on axle or wheel type. Whether it’s Centerlock or six-bolt style, the axle dimensions don’t change.


Bought a 2011 Trek Mamba 29er. What upgrades would you suggest in the $60-$600 range for this 14-year-old kid?
-Kevin, who wants to go faster

Mountain Bike Action: The best bang for your buck is to convert your wheels to tubeless using Stan’s NoTubes Conversion Kit. Click here to see how its done. Next up, and a little more expensive, would be swapping tires. Your bike came with Bontrager 29-3 tires. Slapping on a Kenda Small Block 8 or Maxxis Ikon would reduce rolling resistance and trim a little weight. Finally, and more expensive again, a set of clipless pedals will make you feel like Superman. The catch here is that you may need new shoes at the same time. 

Hit the following link to ask Mountain Bike Action a question: mbaction@hi-torque.com
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