Always pursuing higher performance, absoluteBLACK’s latest gravel chainrings get redesigned and fully optimized for SRAM’s narrower FlatTop chains…and high-end boutique options like the YBN-MK12 chain.
Specifically, it’s designed to help shed mud and crud better with today’s narrower chains. The slim spacing needed to fit the cogs on 12- and 13-speed cassettes doesn’t leave much room for grit between the chain’s plates and chainring teeth. And tighter tolerances can mean more finicky performance in suboptimal conditions.
So, absoluteBLACK has a newly-patented tooth profile they say is better at dealing with mud with narrow chains. From the looks of it, some of the benefit comes from simply making room for it thanks to a little notch on the wide teeth.
The chainrings come in 8-bolt mounting options only, and only in their size-specific oval designs. Available in black and titanium finishes in 38/40/42/44 tooth sizes. MSRP $139.95 / €119.95 / £104.95, with tariffs included in US pricing.
absoluteBLACK Brake Caliper Alignment Tool
As long as your frame and fork’s brake mounts are faced properly and perfectly flat, something like the absoluteBLACK caliper alignment tool can make brake setup fast, accurate, and repeatable. And this one’s both affordable and made from titanium, so what’s not to like?
aB claims it ensures the pads sit perfectly parallel to the disc rotor, minimizing pad rub (assuming your rotors aren’t too warped) and preventing uneven, angled pad wear so your brake pads last longer. Pair them with the brand’s ultra low-friction caliper mounting washers and titanium bolts and perfect alignment gets even easier.
The tool is made from Copper -Titanium alloy. A laser-etched millimeter ruler is integrated for quick and accurate bolt-length and spacer/adapter measurements. MSRP is $12.95 / €10.95 / £9.95.
