Chain Reaction Cycles announces the closure of its flagship store and there are massive MTB and off-road cycling bargains – now with even bigger discounts
CRC has an in-store ‘Everything Must Go’ sale and a 'Warehouse Clearout' online with an additional 10% discount just added
The tough times within the mountain biking industry shows no signs of abating, and as the effects of Wiggle/Chain Reaction Cycles entering administration continue, Chain Reaction has just added its decade-old flagship store in Belfast to the casualty list, and will close the doors next month.
With the flagship store closure, Chain Reaction now has an ‘Everything Must Go' sale at the Belfast store, as the brand looks to shift remaining stock and claw back as much cash as possible. On the CRC website, there is also a massive up to 70 percent 'Warehouse Clearout'.
As sad as it is, seeing some of the best mountain bike brands products that CRC sells being reduced to almost giveaway prices, the harsh reality is that as mountain bikers and consumers, it's well worth grabbing some of the best mountain bike products at these bargain prices while they are around, and every little helps in the current financial climate, for CRC and ourselves.
Chain Reaction has now added an EXTRA10 code on selected items, that when added at checkout gives a further ten percent discount, so be sure to look out for that. I've had a look over the deals at Chain Reaction and highlighted a few standout bargains that I'll be taking advantage of myself and suggest you do the same...
Recent updates
Deals checked and updated 12.00, Monday 22nd January
Our top picks
- Helmets: Brand-X EH1 Enduro Helmet, Was
£49.99,now £7.50 at CRC - Clothing: Endura Pro SL Bib Shorts. Were
£139.99, now £19.99 at CRC - Clothing: Troy Lee Designs Skyline Shorts. Were
£130, now £39 at CRC - Shoes: DHB Dorica MTB Shoes: Were
£85, now £10 at Chain Reaction - Bikes: Vitus Rapide FS CRX. Was
£4,499, now £2,499 at CRC - Shoes: Fizik Terra Artica X5 GTX. Were
£259.99, now £149.99 at CRC - Pedals: Hope F20 Flat Pedals. Were
£140,now £99.99 at Chain Reaction - Bikes: Vitus Substance. Was
£1,999,now £1,499 at Chain Reaction - Clothing: Endura Hummvee II Shorts. Were
£64.99, now £29.25 at CRC - Helmets: Troy Lee Designs D4 Full Face Helmet. Was
£400, now £180 at CRC
1. Chain Reaction clearance bike deals
Vitus Rapide FS CRX: Was £4,499, now £2,499
The Vitus range of mountain bikes and gravel bikes have always scored well when put to the test here at Bike Perfect. The Vitus Venon EVO GR gravel bike got a perfect score, and although we have yet to test it ourselves, our colleagues over at MBR have and the Vitus Rapide FS CRX was awarded 'Best in Test' as a top-specced XC full-suspension MTB with thrash-able handling and was at the price – superb value.
It's now reduced down to £2,299 at Chain Reaction and that makes it an even better option. Available in M-XL it's unlikely to hang around for long.
Nukeproof Scout 275 Comp: Was £1,899, now £999
The Nukeproof Scout has been around for over five years and the ever-popular hardtail has recently seen a refresh as Nukeproof looked to keep the Scout at the top of the best hardtail mountain bike charts.
The Scout 275 Comp version for this price has a superb spec and this alloy-framed hardtail comes with the highly-rated Marzocchi Bomber Z2 fork, and the ever-dependable Shimano Deore 12-speed groupset. For £999 it's a great buy, but now only available in M and L sizing.
Vitus Substance: Was £1,999, now £1,499
Another beauty of a deal from the Vitus range is on one of the best budget gravel bikes around. The Substance is the budget sibling of the highly rated Vitus Venon EVO GR gravel bike, and shares many of the qualities that saw that model get top marks when reviewed here at Bike Perfect.
Featuring a lightweight carbon frame and fork, a SRAM Apex groupset, and a WTB 650b alloy wheelset it's ready for the best gravel bike adventures. There's a £500 reduction currently at Chain Reaction and available at this price in XS, S, L, and XL.
Vitus Mythique 24 Youth: Was £1,599.99, now £849.99
The Vitus Mythique 24 is essentially a shrunken-down version of the adult-size Mythique, one of the best budget full-suspension bikes around. We've highlighted the Mythique 24 bike as a stand-out deal in previous Christmas and also Black Friday articles for good reason.
Your budding shredder is getting an MTB with the same ride capability and durability as the adult version, and it comes packed with a high-end spec built around a full suspension alloy chassis with 120mm of travel front and rear.
CRC has already discounted it by £750 and its included in the EXTRA10 promotion that takes of a further 10%.
2. Chain Reaction wearable bargains
Brand-X EH1 Enduro Helmet: Was £49.99, now £7.50
The Brand-X EH1 helmet has many features and protection that you'd find in some of the best mountain bike helmets. Of course it doesn't have MIPS Safety, but it has a low rear profile for extra rear head protection and it also has a low-slung retention system that enables a firm and comfortable fit.
The lightweight shell and EPS inner makes it lightweight and has allowed Brand-X to add plenty of ventilation for keeping cool. The visor is height adjustable and the anti-bacterial padding can be removed and washed.
It's a £7.50 bargain at Chain Reaction and comes in three color choices, but only sizes M and L.
Endura Pro SL Bib Shorts: Were £139.99, now £19.99
The Pro SL Bibs by Endura are my go to bib shorts for gravel riding, slung under a pair of baggy shorts on the MTB, and for my indoor training too. Endura have recently updated the Pro SL Bib shorts and made them even better in performance, looks and comfort. Noticeable improvements in the fit, fabrics used and panel design make them the best bib shorts I've owned, and at this price, it's a no brainer purchase.
The Endura Pro SL Bib shorts have a massive £100 discount at CRC, plus the EXTRA10 discount, however, sizes are going fast and these are unlikely to be around for much longer.
Fizik Terra Artica X5 GTX Shoes: Were £259.99, now £149.99
When Guy reviewed the Fizik Terra Artica X5 GTX winter boots, he found them to be an "almost great winter boot" with his main point that marked them down being the high cost. Chain Reaction are selling these now with a 35% discount that cancels out the cost issue and makes them a very attractive winter riding option.
The Terra Artica X5 GTX Off Road Shoes are ready for snow-covered mountain bike action and the best gravel bike adventures, and they'll protect against whatever the weather has in store with a Gore-Tex membrane for breathable waterproofing and a warming Koala furry inner.
Available in Purple in a wide range of sizes at Chain Reaction. They are also available in Black with a smaller discount.
Endura Hummvee II Shorts: Were £64.99, now £29.25
The Hummvee by Endura are probably some of the best MTB shorts ever made. These classic baggies have been around for over 20 years and they've changed little in that time. I've owned several pairs of Hummvee shorts over the years of MTB riding and they've always proven to be rugged, long-lasting, and offer great value for money.
Currently better than half-price at Chain Reaction plus they are included in the EXTRA10 promotion, which makes them an absolute steal.
Troy Lee Designs D4 Full Face Helmet: Was £400, now £180
The TLD D4 is one of the best full face helmets you can get, and it's never come so cheap. The Troy Lee Designs D4 Fiberlite features a lightweight fiberglass shell construction crafted following the Troy Lee Designs ethos of ultimate protection, including MIPS, and superb style.
This is premium protection at a budget price, available in Stealth Grey but now only in either S or M sizes.
Troy Lee Designs Skyline Shorts: Were £130, now £39
Add to basket! These Troy Lee Design shorts are a steal and come with all the performance and good looks that you would expect from a TLD product. Skyline Shorts are designed for all-around mountain bike performance from cruising around local trails to hammering hard at the bike park. The casual look also means they'll also be right at home in the cafe or pub for the post-ride chill.
Tech details include a 4-way stretch fabric, micro ripstop ventilation panels and they are made from an environmentally sustainable Bluesign-certified approved fabric, so you’re also doing your bit for the environment.
Available in this superb Camo colorway in loads of sizes, there are also other color options if Camo isn't your vibe with various discounts and size choices at Chain Reaction.
DHB Dorica MTB Shoes: Were £85, now £10
The DHB Dorica is a classic laced MTB shoe, it's ready for just about anything and can be used on the trails, for commutes, gravel riding, or even for indoor cycling, making them a superbly versatile shoe. The headline here though is the £10 price tag, so even if you're not a fan of laced-up shoes when it comes to the best mountain bike shoes, for £10 you might want to give them a go.
Grab this massive discount while you can at Chain Reaction, either in White or Black, but with size options vanishing quicker than I can type, best be quick.
Leatt MTB All Mountain 3.0 Helmet: Was £139.99, now £63
South African brand Leatt has a reputation for producing some of the best safety kit for mountain biking. The All Mountain 3.0 helmet has plenty of the brand's safety tech built in, including its 360 Turbine Technology which is its answer to the MIPS Safety System. Cooling and comfort are taken care of with 20 vents and moisture-wicking padding that is anti-odor and washable.
It's better than half-price right now and comes in loads of color choices and in sizes S, M and L.
Fox Union Flat Shoes: Were £129.99, now from £58.50
The Fox Union MTB shoes scored top marks when reviewed by Bike Perfect Editor, Rich Owen. Rich said that the grip on the Fox Union was up there with the best around, and when combined with the sturdy uppers and overall lightweight, it results in one of the best MTB flat pedal shoes you can buy.
Available at Chain Reaction with a variety of discounts depending on color and sizing options, the best discount is on the Mocha color, but they come in Black and Grey too.
Troy Lee Designs Gambit Gloves: Were £45, now £22.50
The best mountain bike gloves not only protect your hands during a crash, but they can also improve your riding performance, with improved grip and control. The Gambit gloves by TLD tick all the boxes for a sleek, comfortable and excellently grippy MTB glove. Silicone print on the fingertips gives improved brake lever control, and D30 knuckle protectors look after your hands when thrashing the trails.
Available with a superb half-price discount and sizes S-2XL, except L, and there is also a Black color option with a slightly smaller discount available.
3. Chain Reaction components and tech deals
SRAM NX Eagle Groupset: Was £384, now £271
The NX Eagle 12-Speed MTB groupset falls under a budget offering from SRAM but still features all the top technologies of SRAM's XX1 and X01 drivetrains at a price that won't break the bank. This groupset includes SRAM's well-known bottom bracket Dynamic Unifying Bottom Bracket (DUB) system, which improves performance between the crank, spindle, and bottom bracket for a smoother ride whatever the terrain.
The SRAM NX Eagle Groupset in a 170mm crank length version now has a £113 discount at Chain Reaction, and now has the EXTRA10 discount too.
Fizik Tundra M5 Saddle: Was £94.99, now £34.99
We are big fans of Fizik and its shoes and saddles score well during testing and review. The Tundra M5 saddle is aimed at the best XC mountain bike riding and combines features from across the Fizik saddle range.
The Tundra has a flat profile and a long narrow shape which is aimed to deliver maximum power transfer, and a central channel also relieves pressure in the most sensitive areas. It's lightweight too, at just 235g and with a massive £60 discount, well worth a look if you're on the hunt for a new saddle.
Clarks M3 Hydraulic Disc Brake Set: Was £99.99, now £38.99
We recently reviewed the Clarks CRS C4 brake set and gave them a glowing review, noting that they had enough stopping power for most riding, a decent lever feel, and an impressive low weight. The M3 by Clarks are more budget orientated than the C4's, but still have some impressive features including cast alloy brake levers and calipers, they are lightweight (at just 224g) and designed to prevent heat build-up on the longest of descents.
At this price of just £38.99 its superb value for the 160mm rotor version and well worth a look if you're thinking of a braking upgrade.
Hope F20 Flat Pedals: Were £140, now £99.99
Hope's F20 has an almost cult following and a reputation as one of the highest-quality flat MTB pedals out there. They have the instantly recognizable Hope vibe and come in a tough CNC machined construction. The concave shape and 20 replaceable pins offer outstanding grip, and the anodized finish increases the durability and lifespan.
The Hope F20's are available in either Orange or Purple with a nice £40 discount.
RockShox 35 Silver R Coil Boost Fork: Was £305, now £79.99
RockShox makes the best mountain bike suspension around and although the RockShox 35 Silver R sits more on the budget side of its range, it still delivers plenty of premium performance. RockShox 35 Silver R features a coil shock with 140mm travel perfect for trail smoothing trail blasting.
Chain Reaction adds that these are an OE Product (Original Equipment) and may arrive without branded retail packaging. However, they are fully covered by the manufacturer’s warranty.
Garmin Varia RTL515 Rearview Radar/TailLight: Was £169, now £121
The Garmin Varia RTL515 Rearview Radar and Tail Light is without a doubt one of the best lights for night riding on the market. The Varia works with the best Garmin bike computers or smartphones and provides sound and vibration alerts, plus bold graphics to inform you of the speed and position of any vehicles that are approaching from behind. Its sensor stretches to 140 meters and has a visibility range of up to a mile.
This is one of the lowest prices I've seen on this and it's currently priced at £150.95 at Amazon.
Nukeproof Neutron EVO Flat Pedals: Were £34.99, now £24.49
The Nukeproof Neutron EVO pedals are lightweight, tipping the scales at just 354g for the pair. Featuring a nylon-reinforced composite body and sealed cartridge bearings which makes them super-tough, smooth-spinning, rock-solid underfoot, and one of the best budget flat pedals you can get.
They are available in a huge selection of colors and various discounts depending on the color you fancy.
Garmin Edge 830: Was £349, now £299.99
More nicely priced Garmin tech with the Edge 830 GPS cycling computer. A responsive, convenient, and compact touchscreen device packed with useful features for the best gravel bike and MTB adventures. You can use the Edge 830 to create routes directly on the device with advanced navigation capabilities that help you ride like a local with off-road maps and route recalculation. Additional safety features have also been added and there are a whole host of customizable options that can be accessed via the Garmin Connect IQ Store.
Brand-X Ascend II External Dropper Post: Was £139, now from £59.99
A dropper post is one of the best MTB upgrades you can make to your bike, and the Brand-X Ascend II is (especially at this price) one of the most affordable options in the best dropper post market. It's built on the success of the Ascend dropper, made from aluminum and easy to install with external cable routing. It has infinitely smooth adjustments, easily controlled with an ergonomic lever that can sit on the left or right of your cockpit.
It comes in various dropper lengths from 100mm-150mm, and seatpost diameters. Also add code EXTRA10 at checkout for an extra ten percent discount.
Brand-X Ascend CX Dropper Post: Was £139.99. now £49.99
As dropper posts become more popular in gravel bike riding, Brand-X has transformed its popular Ascend MTB dropper seatpost to suit drop bar riding. This version comes in a 27.2mm diameter and a shorter travel of 85mm. Easy operation comes via a paddle-style remote, the Brand-X is suitable for the best gravel bikes with internal cable routing.
Like the Brand-X Ascend MTB dropper above, this one also benefits from the EXTRA10 discount code.
These deals are for Chain Reaction only and just apply to U.K shoppers. So if you're outside the U.K, then our New Year bike sale bargains page may be of interest to you, packed with a fine selection of January sales goodies.
Quick links for January sale deals for mountain bikers
Below are the sites where you'll regularly find quality mountain biking and off-road cycling products carrying discounts just now, so well worth a browse.
US:
- Amazon: Plenty of cycling clothing, gadgets, and affordable tech options
- Competitive Cyclist: A massive range of helmets from top brands
- Jenson USA: Check out Gear Stoke to see what other customers are buying
- Backcountry: Everything for MTBers, plus a load of other sports
- REI Coop: Bikes, camping gear, and lots of other sports too
- Chain Reaction Cycles: Huge range of MTB clothing from top brands
- Mike's Bikes: Top brands from the Bay Area's largest cycle retailer
- Garmin: Bike computers, wearables, and other tech for the mountain biker
- Oakley: MTB eyewear, apparel, and more
UK:
- Amazon: Plenty of options for the mountain biker, from bikes to maps and more
- Sigma Sports: Lots of new products from leading cycling brands
- Rapha: Check out their Trail collection and more
- Tredz: Bikes, turbos, and everything that could go with them
- Evans Cycles: Bikes, components, and accessories from big brands
- Chain Reaction Cycles: Everything they need for trail riding
- Cyclestore: Wide range of Specialized clothing and equipment
- Oakley: Good-looking and performing eyewear, plus more
- Garmin: Great ideas and offers for gadget lovers
- Leisure Lakes Bikes: Cycling and casual clothing from top brands
Paul Brett joined BikePerfect as a staff writer in 2022. He has been an avid cyclist for as long as he can remember, initially catching the mountain biking bug in the 1990s, and he raced mountain bikes for over a decade before injury cut short a glittering career. An award-winning photographer, when not riding a bike, he can be found at the side of a cyclocross track or a downhill mountain bike world championship shooting the action. Paul was the founder, editor and writer of Proper Cycling magazine, and he's traveled the world interviewing some of the biggest names in mountain biking and writing about some of the biggest cycling brands.
Current rides: Canyon Inflite, Specialized Diverge, Marin Alpine Trail 2