Night Rider 3000 & Alpina Tracker xc ski review

So winter here in the East coast has deff been better than last years snow fall but clearly not by much. At any rate in between snowboarding and riding my trainer...I did get out and do some night cross-country skiing. Now if this is something you have not down well... I will tell you it is probably the most fun you will have next to riding your bike. 



Nite Rider Pro 3000

 

 

 

When it comes to lights well let's just say that I have a fetish...the more tech. and brighter the better. The Nite Rider 3000 is hands down one of the brightest lights I've used. From it's sleek looking design, to it's clever charging doc. Typically this light is for those not afraid of a big spend $700 retail.

 

 All in all the burn time on it's low setting easily took me out an about my favorite 2 &1/2 hr mtb loop with no issues. Further more, went out on an 2 hour xc ski... (I had to use the "headband" mount). The cords and "plugs" are designs to prevent moisture from ending your ride etc.

 

Lights are always a tough thing to consider when you look at the price all in all if your smart with hoe you invest your money there are still some really decent lights in the $150ish price range to consider. 

 

Alpina "Tracker" xc ski

Here's my choice for a decent mid level light duty back country trail blazing type ski. This ski features what I guess would be a mid size flex, and METAL edges. Yes you WANT edges...this makes skiing in some on those sketchy section much easier. This is a wax less ski...yep not a big fan of worrying bout things like that I'd rather just ski. In terms of "base pattern" or "fish scale" as people often refer to them...there's a decent enough under the foot section to keep the ski climbing well.
 I partnered this particular set up with an NNN bc boot and binding combo...works great. Folding poles are the way to go....again it's an investment but well worth it.

 

 

Bike Guy ;o)