BikeRumor Editor’s Choice 2025: Frazelle’s Favorites and Reflections
Time flies when you're having fun, and it's hard to believe another year has come and gone. As I reflect on 2025, I'm excited to share my top picks and personal highlights with you. But first, let me take you on a journey through my year, filled with bikes, adventures, and life's surprises.
A Year in Review: Personal Reflections
Let's start with a bold statement: this year has been a rollercoaster, both professionally and personally. As a lifelong cyclist and industry veteran, I've had the privilege of immersing myself in the world of bikes for over 30 years. My passion for cycling has led me to own an excessive (yet totally reasonable, right?) number of bikes, including three mountain bikes, a gravel bike, an all-rounder, and three eBikes. But there's more to life than bikes, and I'm grateful for my loving family, including my wife Maria, our six kids, and two beautiful granddaughters.
And this is the part most people miss... I've been battling a personal challenge this year – a diagnosis of prostate cancer. After completing my last radiation treatment in January, I'm proud to call myself a survivor. It's a reminder that life is precious, and we should cherish every moment. Now, let's shift gears and dive into my favorite experiences and products of the year.
Non-Bike Adventures: Eastern Sierra Backcountry Trip
My Editor's Choice for the best non-bike experience goes to an epic Eastern Sierra backcountry trip with my cycling buddies, Dave and Daniel. This self-supported adventure involved off-roading, history, exploration, and camping in remote areas. The highlight? Conquering Mount Patterson's 11,650-foot peak – a truly unforgettable experience.
Controversial Opinion: Rooftop Tents are a Game-Changer
Here's a controversial take: rooftop tents are worth the investment. The Topoak Overland Galaxy Pro, priced at $1,668, is a standout option. Its 300GSM poly-cotton blackout canvas and premium 3-inch mattress kept me comfortable during chilly nights in the high 30s. Trust me, it's a game-changer for outdoor enthusiasts.
Bike of the Year: Wilde Rambler SL
Now, let's talk bikes. My top pick for the best gravel bike (and possibly bike of the year) is the Wilde Rambler SL. With its elegant aesthetics, skinny steel frame tubes, and copper color, it's a beauty. The 5DEV titanium cranks and bottom bracket upgrade brought the weight down to a impressive 22lbs 11oz, making it a joy to ride.
Custom Mountain Bike Dreams: Scarab Cycles Darién
For mountain bike enthusiasts, the Scarab Cycles custom Darién is a dream come true. This Colombian-made hardtail MTB frameset, paired with a RockShox 140mm Pike Ultimate Charger 3.1 RC2 fork, rides like a dream. The seamless custom-building process and color-matching options make it a top choice for discerning riders.
eBike Revolution: Aventon Aventure M
The eBike market has seen significant improvements, and the Aventon Aventure M stands out as the best all-rounder eBike. With its mid-drive system, A100 motor, and sub-$3000 price point, it's a fun, affordable, and accessible option for riders of all levels.
Essential Gear: From Tires to Safety Lights
No bike setup is complete without the right gear. My top picks include the Teravail Cannonball gravel tire, Kuat Piston ION bike rack, Velo Orange Nouveau Randonneur handlebars, and PDW Gravity Plus USB tail light. Each of these products excels in its category, offering performance, versatility, and value.
Thought-Provoking Question: Are We Overlooking the Small Details?
As I wrap up my Editor's Choice awards, I can't help but wonder: are we paying enough attention to the small details that make a big difference? Products like Spurcycle's Titanium Key Clip and Paul Components BËP bar end plugs may seem insignificant, but they add a touch of ingenuity and creativity to our cycling experience. Shouldn't we celebrate these unsung heroes more often?
Final Thoughts: A Community of Cyclists
As we move forward into the new year, let's continue to nerd out together on bike stuff, share trails, and be kind to one another. Whether you're jumping stuff, popping wheelies, or simply enjoying a leisurely ride, remember to embrace the cyclist you want to be. And who knows, maybe we'll cross paths on the trails – beers, coffee, or whatever in hand. Until then, keep riding and stay curious!
