[2024 Edition] Things I Loved Buying This Year [Ikeda's Picks]

Hello, this is Ikeda.

2024 is almost over.

This year, I've encountered many bikes and parts, and this time I'd like to introduce some items that I actually bought myself and found to be excellent.

First up is this item.

BIKE YOKE SAGMA Saddle

This saddle was the first part I bought in 2024. It's a unique saddle with a comfortable feel, light weight, customizable options, a wide range of colors, and a suspension function.

It's also a saddle that exploded in popularity at Grumpy, so much so that it's been difficult to keep in stock. We are currently waiting for it to be restocked.

So, why did I choose this saddle? Last year, I had prostatitis, and there was a period when my crotch hurt when I sat on the saddle.

This led me to search for a new saddle that would be kind to my rear and suitable for both off-road riding and commuting, and the SAGMA saddle was the result.

It's such a favorite that I'm considering buying another one in a different size. 

More details in this blog post

Next is this.

Crankbrothers Stamp 7 Pedals Large

The Stamp 7 comes in two sizes, small and large, and I chose the large size.

Based on my foot size, both small and large would have been fine, but I was interested in the large, and it turned out to be the perfect choice.

It provides a sense of stability, as if I'm standing on the ground, and off-road pedaling is perfect!

By adjusting the pedal pins, the protrusions can be made about 1mm, ensuring grip without damaging the soles of sneakers or sandals.

I've been using them hard for weekend rides, both on and off-road, and for daily commutes, and they haven't loosened up at all and have required no maintenance so far.

These pedals have excellent durability and seem like they'll be a long-lasting companion.

More details in this blog post.

Third is this.

GIRO TRACKER 

I'm buying another pair of these next year.

Giro's Tracker is my favorite flat pedal shoe, so much so that I regret not wearing them sooner.

Here's how I usually ride:

The route to my cycling destination is mostly paved, so I want to ride my bike as quickly as possible.

However, when I enter ruins or mountains, elements of trekking increase, such as carrying my bike or climbing muddy paths, rather than just cycling.

So, I was looking for a well-balanced shoe that I could use for both cycling and walking, and I found it.

More details in this blog post

Fourth is this.

Panaracer Gravelking SK

Panaracer's popular gravel road tires, the "Gravelking series," have been around for a while, but they underwent a major model change this year.

To be honest, while the name is the same as the previous model, the content is completely different.

The ease of tubeless-ready setup, sealant/air leakage, durability, lineup, cost performance, etc., I believe the model change truly transformed it into an excellent tire.

The Gravelking SK is available in a wide range of sizes and colors, including 26, 27.5 (650B), and 29 (700c), which is a nice feature for matching it to your own bike.

Also, within the series, it's geared more towards off-road, but it also rolls lightly on paved roads and has excellent grip on dirt, so I'm very fond of it.

If you're having trouble choosing tires, I think this is a good place to start.

More details in this blog post

And finally, this.

Kona Sutra LTD

The Sutra LTD is a full-fledged bike born by transcending genres like mountain bikes, road bikes, gravel road bikes, and touring bikes.

I started riding it in the latter half of 2024, and I've been riding it constantly ever since.

Combined with my personality as a customization enthusiast, the front suspension and deep-rim wheels helped me explore the possibilities of the Sutra LTD. It's a mysterious model that I grow to love more and more.

I've really enjoyed riding it for 300km long rides and on animal trails in the mountains, regardless of the terrain.

I've compiled some information about the Kona Sutra LTD in this blog post, so please take a look.

Actually, there are many others, but this time I've picked out these five. I already have other bikes and parts I want to try next, and I'm quite excited these days.

Next year, I'm thinking of challenging myself to more long rides and trail rides.

I'll be sure to introduce any other good items I find!