Dynaplug teases new handlebar-stashed tubeless plugs
Dynaplug teases new handlebar-stashed tubeless plugs
It’s no secret that I’m a fan of Dynaplug’s patented tubeless tyre plugs. The unique design that integrates the pointed edge of the insertion tool with the plug may not be the cheapest option, but in my experience, it has proven to be the quickest to use, easiest to insert, and most reliable at staying where it should (most obvious with road tyre pressures).
The company’s Racer Pro tyre plug tool is what I tend to carry with me on just about every ride. It’s a tool that stores four plugs, each one ready to be jabbed through an unwanted hole in a tubeless tyre. And while that tool is wonderfully compact, Dynaplug is currently working on a new stashable version that could be quite great.
Currently, in the final design phases, this new stashable version is designed to securely fit into the ends of a handlebar, be extremely quick to access, and add only a minimal stack. Dynaplug does already offer a handlebar-stored tyre plug with its Covert kit, however, the existing design sees the tool protrude from the ends of the bar, something the new version will improve upon.
The goal is to offer versions of the new stashable tools for both mountain bike and drop handlebars. The unique design will employ a small aluminium ring with grub screws that are tightened against the inside walls of the bar end (a shortened hex key will be provided for installation). This ring will provide a thread for the Dynaplug tool to screw into.
The tool itself will be made of aluminium and feature the same double-sided plug insertion tools as found on the Racer Pro. This means that a pair of bar ends will store four plugs ready for insertion. The dropbar version will feature Dynaplug’s shorter road-specific insertion tubes (designed for lower volume tyres).
A quick play with the displayed prototype at Sea Otter Classic suggests the tool is impressively quick and easy to remove and re-install from the end of the bar, all while being secure and rattle-free.
A version of this handlebar-stashed plug kit is already seen in a collaboration with Btchn’ Bikes, where the handlebar features a docking thread at either end. However, the yet-to-be-released plug kits will open up compatibility to the vast majority of handlebars on the market.
Pricing and availability for this USA-made product are still to be confirmed. Dynaplug is likely to do the mountain bike version with a Cerakote finish, while the road (which is less likely to be scratched) will be anodised.
A Meerkat Klunker
On the topic of Dynaplug, the company’s Instagram account often has a drunken meerkat ranting about the world’s problems. It’s weird in all the right ways.
Aiming to raise money for Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship (SBTS), the company is auctioning (or raffling?) off a State Bicycle Co Klunker built with all kinds of fancy parts from Paul, White Industries, Thomson, and Dingo Bags. Details of the fundraiser haven’t been released, but I figured the bike was well worth a share in the meantime.
