Today’s ride was like riding a different bike.
Probably because it was.
First time I’ve ridden with the Lyric Ultimate 160, Magura MT7’s, and I have Maxxis DHF 2.5 upfront and DHR II 2.3 at the back.
What a transformation.
Firstly, the Lyric is so much smoother than the Fox 34. Did the extra 10mm make a difference to my ride today - probably not... but the Lyric (for me) is just a much better fork. No issues climbing. I put my stem about 5mm lower, and didn’t have any issues with the front wheel coming up - even on super steep climbs that I needed 1st gear for.
The MT7’s offered much more stopping power, with much less effort. I didn’t feel like I was having to crush the levers to slow the bike down. The G2’s felt like they faded really quickly, but the MT7’s offered so much more... and they didn’t shriek at any given opportunity!!
The bike felt much more planted on descents, and less prone to sketchy moments where the tyre slipped. Could be down to better dampening or better tyres - but it certainly cut out a few brown shorts moments!
Overall I’m really chuffed with the difference. I’m still waiting for my AXS dropper to come, and then I think I’m done with mods for a while. I’d like the Praxis carbon cranks when they release them... and I’ll maybe order the Magura carbon levers.
Also need to get a new tubeless valve (the Specialized one won’t seal 100%) and invest in a charger pump rather than taking my wheel / tyre full of glue to the LBS at 9am!
The bike is currently sitting at just under 17.7kgs with mudguard and ShockWiz fitted.
Carbon cranks should take it down to 17.5... which will be 5 full kgs lighter than my Trek Rail was!
I’m sure I could have done more to make it lighter... however I have some pretty high end components that have added weight rather than remove it. I’d much rather have the setup I want than losing 500g and sacrificing the ride for the sake of weight.
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