The Horst Is Yet To Come

A few weeks ago or whatever it was, Trek shocked the world of broccoli when they introduced the fully-suspendered Checkout:

Well, as if that wasn’t innovative enough, they’re already at work on an updated model that will hone the concept even further, and I’m now able to share that I’ve been riding the prototype:

According to Crap Packing Dot Com, the first iteration of the Checkout weighed in at about 26 and a half American Freedom Pounds, without the rack. Meanwhile, the prototype I’m riding shaves around a pound and a half off that–despite being made of aluminum! This is mostly due to two groundbreaking innovations:

Since broccoli bikes don’t require the same rollover capability as mountain bikes, Trek reduced the wheel slightly, resulting in less weight, faster acceleration, and snappier handling. This new “26er” wheel size is poised to become the new broccoli standard going forward
Trek were able to reduce weight further by moving the brake calipers from the hub to the rim and integrating the braking surface into the wheel system. Not only does this configuration preserve all the power and modulation of the now-obsolete disc brake system, but it’s also easily serviced with just a multitool and is completely fluid-free, making it ideal for an adventure bike

You’ll note lots of other refinements too, such as the elimination of the vestigial “drops” on the outgoing version’s handlebars for weight savings and additional control on more technical terrain, as well as the complete and total elimination of all batteries from the drivetrain, meaning–and this a real game-changer—you’ll never, ever have to charge it. (Rumors have abounded for years about the development of a completely battery-free drivetrain, and I can now confirm that it’s finally imminent.)

So if you’ve been contemplating spending $8,999.99 on the current version of the Checkout, I highly recommend holding off, because the new iteration is going to be an improvement in every way.

But yes, since last week, I’ve disappeared down sort of an AMP-hole, and continued to ride it pretty much all weekend. This is partly because it’s a fun bike, but also because it’s just so pleasant to be in the woods at this time of year:

In fact I’d nearly forgotten how enjoyable what we used to call “mountain biking” can be:

Not least of all because of the highly favorable trees-to-people ratio:

As opposed to, say, riding in the city:

I still enjoy a good commute every now and again but I’ll take the woods, thanks.

I also found myself thinking of another thumb-shifted polished aluminum specimen that lived with me for awhile:

Here’s how it looked when it arrived:

Though over time I made some changes in order to make it more comfortable on longer rides:

Well, as much as I hate to give credit to suspension for anything, I could easily ride the AMPer all day long, and it’s more comfortable and more capable than its predecessor whilst retaining the same boisterous spirit: