Dorset-based Axel Imports, UK distributor for Titus bikes, has been shopping and added three new brands to its books; Industry Nine, ESI Grips and King Cage.
Industry Nine (i9) wheels are handmade in the company’s Asheville, US factory with a no-compromise approach to building quality wheels. The Ultralite XC wheelset weighs 1,320g with a 32 spoke lacing, has a one piece 7075-T6 anodized and patented 120 point freehub for near-instant pickup, and is available in a wide range of colours.
As you might expect, they don’t come cheap – complete MTB wheels range from £855 to around £1150.
ESI Grips are 100% made from silicone and are used by the Trek, Gary Fisher and Cannondale factory racing teams. ESI claims its grips “are one of the lightest made and are as light as many foam grips, yet grab the bars as strong as a lock on”. ESI grips feature a smooth finish and are available in regular or chunky designs.
The grips come in both ‘chunky’ at £15.50 and ‘racers edge’ at £14.50 options and a range of bright ‘no fade’ colours. We’ve got a (not brightly coloured) black pair on test right now.
King Cage produces by hand titanium and stainless bottle cages and has been doing so since 1991. It all started out when founder Ron starting making cages from his garage in Durango USA. They’re light: the titanium cage weighs just 28g. Prices are £49.99 for Titanium and £31.00 for stainless steel.
Andrew Foley of Axel Imports says: “We’ve had an amazing first year as a distributor with Titus, exceeding both our and their expectations. Several companies approached us to distribute their lines for 2010 and we have also sought brands that we felt complimented the high standard that Titus has set within our portfolio. There’re more exciting brands on the way…”
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