UNITE Components: New Tough Components Made in Wales
Welshpool isn’t exactly known for its production of anything to do with the world of biking; until now that is! This small Welsh town on the border of Shropshire now state’s its claim to being the HQ of UNITE Components, a fresh new company, where their trick looking chainrings and chain guides are designed and manufactured in-house.
The man behind this business is a well known elite category British Enduro and DH ripper, Andrew Cooper, known for his aggressive style and being very hard on equipment! We hooked up with Andrew to get the lowdown on UNITE’s current products and what they have to offer. Andrew is proud of his components and a self-confessed OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) Engineer who strives for perfection and this can be seen in his desire for perfection in his products.
UNITE Components Grip Rings
The chain-rings produced by UNITE Components are unique as they are all hard anodised (a rare procedure in most components) for extra durability and toughness to cope with the Welsh winters. All UNITE’s chain-rings come as narrow-wide and boast great mud clearance with a weight of 40 g. Sizes available are 30, 32, 34 + 36 teeth and different fitments include 104bcd, 94/96/bcd (SRAM) XTM8000 and XTR900 which come with replacement manufactured chain-ring bolts. These come in at a very competitive €44.99 (£40.00)
UNITE Components Compact Guide
This neat little chain-guide is constructed with a hard engineering plastic slider, which is said to be chemically resistant and make for a very quiet action whilst pedalling. The CNC-ed back plate is available in ISCG05 and E-mount versions, with specially made shims included, instead of messing with fiddly washers. The guide is compatible with oval rings; UNITE has future plans to produce their own oval hardware too. The guide will accommodate 30 – 36 teeth chain-rings and weighs in at 50 g (ISCG-05) and 42 g (E-mount) with a great price of €55.99 (£50.00)
UNITE Components are available in selected bike shops or direct and have plans for more components for the future. We have had a couple of sets of these and early feedback has been very good, so keep an eye out for the long term reviews.
For more information check the UNITE Components website.
Words: Jim Buchanan Photos: Doc Ward
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