Reviews

Pivot Shuttle AM v2

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Pivot just released an updated version of the Shuttle AM. Featuring the same geometry as the Shuttle AM v1 we loved, but with Bosch's new Gen 5 Performance Line CX and CX-R motors, the Shuttle AM v2 seems to be a refined version of what was already a winner in our books. Check out what's new with the v2, as well as our Full Review of the v1.
David Golay reviews the Industry Nine Hydra2 Trail Carbon Wheels for Blister

Industry Nine Hydra2 Hubs & Trail Carbon Wheels

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Industry Nine’s Hydra hubs have long been super popular for their ultra-fast engagement and plethora of color options, and now there’s a new Hydra2 that’s meant to improve some of the downsides of the original — while also engaging even faster. Check out how they’ve fared, and how the Hydra2 Trail Carbon wheels we’ve had them laced to perform.

Santa Cruz Hightower 4

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The 4th-generation Santa Cruz Hightower isn’t just a mid-travel All-Mountain bike — it’s a confident descender that could have been a true Enduro bike just a few years ago. With stable, versatile geometry and plush suspension, the Hightower 4 stands out as a capable one-bike quiver option.

2026 Norco Revolver 120 & 130

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The all-new Norco Revolver 120 & 130 are built on a redesigned carbon frame with updated geometry as well as Norco’s first “Flex-Pivot” suspension design, shedding weight in the pursuit of Cross-Country podiums and easier miles. Check out our First Look for all the details.
David Golay reviews the Shimano XT M8200 Di2 group for Blister

Flash Review: Shimano XT M8200 Di2 Drivetrain and Brakes

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Update 8.12.25: We’ve started spending time on the 9-45 tooth cassette version of the new Shimano XT Di2 Drivetrain, and have some thoughts on how it stacks up against the standard 10-51 tooth version.

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Zack Henderson reviews the RockShox Reverb AXS B1 for BLISTER

RockShox Reverb AXS B1

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The new RockShox Reverb AXS is a ground-up revision of the original, adding more drop, a new cartridge design, a lower price, and some built-in bounce. Does the redesign push the Reverb ahead of the competition? Our Full Review has answers.
David Golay reviews the Trek Fuel EX, MX, and LX for Blister

Flash Review: Trek Fuel EX Gen 7

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The outgoing Trek Fuel EX Gen 6 was an exceptionally well-rounded, versatile bike that riders of many different stripes could get along with — so is that still true of the new Gen 7 version, or has Trek turned the Fuel EX into something else entirely?

Blister’s Flash Reviews and Deep Dives are accessible to those who purchase one of our paid subscriptions

To get our comprehensive Deep Dives and our initial, unfiltered reports on new gear, become a member and receive many other services, deals, and discounts.

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Yeti MTe

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We’ve spent the last 3 months riding Yeti’s latest eMTB, the lightweight MTe. And for the right rider, this isn’t just another light/mid-assist eMTB: it’s a true standout in the category. Check out our Full Review for the whole story.
1UP USA SD rack & Rakattach

1UP Super Duty Rack & RakAttach 

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We’ve been hauling lots of bikes on the 1UP Super Duty rack anchored to their RakAttach swing-out hitch mount, including some light off-roading with heavy eMTBs, and of course, some camping to help put the practicality of the RakAttach swing-out to the test.
Zack Henderson reviews the updated Specialized Butcher and Eliminator tires

Specialized’s Updated Butcher and Eliminator Tires

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Specialized has continued to invest heavily in its tire program, and the refreshed Butcher and Eliminator bring big changes to two of their most popular tires. We’ve been riding both tires for several months, and they’re some of the Big S’s most impressive work yet.
David Golay reviews the Propain Hugene 3 CF for Blister

Flash Review: Propain Hugene 3 CF

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The variety of ride traits across mid-travel Trail bikes is wider than ever, so where does the new Propain Hugene slot in? We’ve got some thoughts after about a month on board the updated Hugene 3.

Blister’s Flash Reviews and Deep Dives are accessible to those who purchase one of our paid subscriptions

To get our comprehensive Deep Dives and our initial, unfiltered reports on new gear, become a member and receive many other services, deals, and discounts.

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Zack Henderson reviews the RockShox Vivid Coil

RockShox Vivid Coil

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The coil shock market is loaded with great options, but the RockShox Vivid Coil stands out for merging easy setup with ample adjustability — and distinct on-trail performance. Our Full Review unpacks our thoughts after six months with RockShox’s flagship coil shock.

Stuff We Like: July 2025

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In this edition of ‘Stuff We Like,’ our reviewers discuss some new hiking / trekking boots, ultralight sleeping pads, impressive everyday apparel, portable bike ramps, and more. Check it out to see which products have been standing out this month.
Blister Mountain Bike Buyer's Guide

Blister Mountain Bike Buyer’s Guide

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It’s here! Our new Mountain Bike Buyer’s Guide, comparing the many current bikes we’ve reviewed, in a more digestible format than ever before. First up: All-Mountain bikes.

Blister’s Flash Reviews and Deep Dives are accessible to those who purchase one of our paid subscriptions

To get our comprehensive Deep Dives and our initial, unfiltered reports on new gear, become a member and receive many other services, deals, and discounts.

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