Imagine if adding bikes and fenders to your bike could be done in less time than it takes to fill your water bottle? That’s the goal of the Monkey Link system, but it goes deeper than just quick connect accessories.
While Monkey Link will have battery operated, rechargeable versions for regular bikes, the concept is particularly interesting for eBikes. Using special seat post collars and stems, the bike can be hard wired for a permanent mounting solution that is as easy as snapping two magnets together. Then, once connected the system will provide continuous power to the lights as long as your eBike has some juice.
At the rear, the seat collars have the option of either a stand alone light or a rear fender with an integrated light.
Up front, the idea is the same, but with a special stem to accommodate the light. Both front and rear attach almost telepathically, instantly turning on the light. To remove the light though, you have to physically press a button so the lights won’t just come unclipped while riding.
Still in concept phase, the system is a collaboration with the ZEG buying group and you can expect to see Monkey Link systems in the future on bikes from Bulls and Hercules, while aftermarket kits will eventually be available as well. As for the SKS parts, the lights will be available as a set for recharge or connect as the ML-Light set, and Front and rear fenders as the Recharge or Connect MTB fender set with the built in light for the rear.
SKS is probably best known for their fenders, but now they’re getting into maintenance liquids as well. Starting with their chain lube applicator, the head has a spring loaded button that will only apply lube to the roller of the chain and allows it to be quickly applied. The applicator will include a special German made chain oil made by an automotive oil manufacturer which is solvent free and has a lower viscosity for better flow through the applicator. SKS says 15 turns of the crank is all that is needed for perfect application. The chain lube applicator will sell for $15.99.
Other products include a $15.99 bike wash, $11.99 frame polish for both shiny and matte frames, and $11.99 ‘Tune your bike’ spray. SKS is also getting into the tubeless sealant game with a Tubeless Kit with two bottles of sealant, 25 or 29mm tape, and valves for $44.95. The sealant alone will go for $11.99.
On the fender side, the new Edge AL fenders offer aluminum full coverage for up to 42mm tires. The single strut fenders are blacked out and have a new rubber gasket to prevent any vibration of the strut and are German made for $53.99 per set.
And because eBike, there’s also a new X-Guard with larger straps to fit around bulbous downtubes with built in battery packs.
