The Lab: Sendhit Nock V2 Handguards
Many EWS pros already use them but outside the race tape they’re still a rare sight. What are they? Handguards! We’ve tested the MX-inspired Sendhit Nock V2 handguards to tell you whether they make a difference on the trail.
Manufacturer’s website
We’ve all been there: once again, you’re riding hungover and your line choice is a little questionable, grazing your knuckles on the undergrowth or bashing your pinkie against a pine tree. When riding bikes, what doesn’t go to plan usually hurts, leaving indelible marks on your hands over time. This is where the Sendhit Nock V2 handguards enter the stage. But that’s not all: not only do handguards protect your… er, hands, but also prevent your brake levers from snapping or bending during a crash. In enduro stages, a broken lever could potentially put an end to the race, which is why handguards are becoming increasingly popular among racers. Sendhit have already released an updated version of their handguards, the Nock V2, which retail for € 74.99 and weigh in at 166 grams for the pair.
The Sendhit Nock V2 handguards come out of the box in just a few parts and are quick and easy to assemble. You just have to connect the alloy bracket to the handlebars, right between the brake clamp and grips, and bolt the plastic guards straight to the bracket. Unfortunately, the screw mount of the alloy bracket protrudes, potentially leading to compatibility issues with the shifter or dropper levers – depending on their shape and position. While the handguards are optimised for use with Shimano brakes, we’ve also tested them with SRAM brakes. While this combination worked out fine for most of us, riders with big hands could have trouble fitting their fingers between the brake lever and handguard. The plastic shells can be adjusted between four positions: 10 mm further in or out and 9 mm closer or further away from the handlebars. Straight out of the box, the handguards look quite big compared to other models. The inside has foam padding around the edge, while the plastic material is quite soft, which makes you question the protective effect of the guards at first. However, the guards quickly clear your doubts
Most of you are probably asking yourself: “But did the ENDURO team crash over and over during the test period to put the handguards through the wringer?”. The answer is no! However, we tested the guards thoroughly on countless rides, gaining a clear understanding of their overall performance on the trail. The first thing you notice when riding with the Sendhit Nock V2 guards, is that your hands are significantly less exposed to the elements and undergrowth: they don’t get wet as easily and are far less exposed to the wind, which is particularly pleasant on cold, wet days. Moreover, they’re less likely to come into contact with branches, thorns and small trees, which all seem to have a soft spot for our knuckles! When hitting bigger trees, the soft plastic shell bends back and touches your hand. However, that’s not that big of a deal, because the additional padding on the inside cushions the impact. There’s a positive side effect too: since the impact is dampened, the steering doesn’t react as abruptly to involuntary input, making it easier to regain control over the bike. During the entire testing period, the handguards always stayed in their place, so we reckon that your brake levers should be well protected in the event of a crash.
Are Sendhit’s Nock V2 handguards your pinkie’s guardian angel? We say yes! Although with harder collisions the plastic guards still knock on your fingers, the impact is far more cushioned. Moreover, the guards protect you against the elements, which is worth its weight in gold, especially on cold winter rides. Installing the handguards is easy and straightforward. However, with certain brake models, long brake levers and big hands, you might have some space issues.
Tops
- Easy installation
- More protection against impacts
- Shields your hands from wind and water
Flops
- Compatibility issues with brakes that are not from Shimano
Tester Peter and Rudi
Test duration 2 months
Price € 74,99
Weight 166 grams (pair)
More information Manufacturer’s website