The arms race of trying to have the first review out for a product has some limitations. Any discerning rider will tell you there are vital aspects to be learned about a product in the second 60 days that didn’t reveal themselves in the first 60 days. For many products you can extend that interval and that statement will remain true. It may be that something wears prematurely, begins to rub your skin sore, or maybe this gadget combusts spontaneously in the presence of a blood moon. Good news sometimes takes time to show up as well. The Shimano XTR drivetrain I’ve been riding has actually improved over time and durability can only be guessed at until many months of hard use have passed.

This is often some of the most valuable info both for those who have already purchased the gizmo in question and for those who are considering it, so we’re trying to put more emphasis on follow up, when new information arrives or to confirm that our initial impressions have held steady. If you missed my first instalment, published in February 2020, it’s here.

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