As I’ve been reading through the various tri mags lately, as well as multiple websites, I’ve seen a trend to devote lots of “ink space” to useless product reviews (although Dan’s bike reviews in Triathlete are always a good read). A hugely popular series, in my humble opinion, would be to do product reviews on some of the second tier products, and actually go out on a limb and recommend 2 of each product. One would be the best overall (the Mercedes) and another would be the best overall value (the Chevy). If you really want to push the envelope, include a 3rd category listing those which are overpriced or of low quality and should not be purchased.
The types of products I have in mind are things like:
multivitamins
pedals
brake pads
chain lube
rain gear
bike tools
tires, etc.
These are things all of us must buy from time to time, but we usually don’t know enough to make good decisions and just take the LBS suggetions. I think a lot of us would value slowtwitch’s input on these types of products. Maybe one product every week or two, as I suppose the forum could get busy debating the obscure differences between a “Mercedes” and a “Cadillac” or Ford vs. Chevy. BUT, for 80% of us, Ford and Chevy are equals, and we’d benefit by knowing what other’s recommend.
There is no way that things like bike frames, running shoes, or even saddles should be included in this review because the individual needs and fits are too varied to make a recommendation worthwhile.
Does anyone else think this series would be worthwhile? What other items should be included?
If you are looking for something on pedals check out Tom’s review of Speedplay Zero’s on his web site - while probably not a true comparative article it gives some great insite into pedals
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Dan—another thought to consider. What about doing a weekly on-line survey on these types of products? Sounds cheesy…but might be helpful. For example “What is the best all around training tire” and list choices and publish results, along with your commentary? Again…I don’t think all products are appropriate for this type of review. I’m only talking about the less critical products like those I listed in my first post, but things we all need to buy periodically nonetheless.
The reason for my suggestion of product reviews rather than researching prior postings is twofold:
Dan has built a reputation in the industry and is trusted by readers. His recommendation means something and is expected to be informed and valuable. Dan saying “such and such chain lube is a great value, Brand X is the absolute best if you can afford it, while brand Y really sucks” carries a lot more weight than Joe Blow poster saying the exact same thing. This is the power of slowtwitch’s investment in branding itself. I’m not bashing anyone inf the forum, just stating the obvious about slowtwitch’s value to us all.
I’m a typical American and want the answers as fast as possible. A quick product review and/or survey is a starting point. This doesn’t mean we shouldn’t pursue more information, but it at least says “here is an informed person’s short list of good products to start with.”