Specials

Celium Premium All Mountain riding apparel enhances the ride with the superior comfort of premium materials. Our revolutionary shock cord waist closure ensures the perfect fit, while 4-way stretch construction provides unrestricted movement on the bike. - DWR lightweight nylon/spandex 4-way stretch woven fabric - Fully sewn then taped seams for maximum riding comfort and durability - BOA Fit System dial and lace technology for a lightweight, incrementally adjustable waist closure for the ideal fit - Silicone print on inner waistband to minimize slippage - Zipper pockets for security of essentials - Inseam laser perforations for increased airflow - Stabilization pocket to store device or tool

We designed the Naughtvind Pants to protect you from winter’s harshest elements. Using our own experiences riding through Minnesota winters, we built these pants with a stretchy, breathable, wind- and water-resistant material. Fleece-lined thighs keep body heat in, while vents let you regulate temperature. Features such as reflective accents and an adjustable waist suit many types of riding and riders. Beat the cold with these winter cycling pants. - Bike-focused design with high rear waist and articulated knees for riding comfort - Made with recycled materials - Water- and wind-resistant shell material stretches as you move - Fleece-lined thigh offers protection from extreme wind and cold - Two ventilation areas for dumping excess heat - Adjustable waist for dialing in fit - Fits over bibs for easy layering - Reflective accents for safety - Adjustable ankle for boot-compatible fit SPECS: FEATURES: - Double-weave fabric provides the best combination of weather protection, breathability, and stretch - Black reflective material placed in key areas enhances your nighttime visibility - Minimal and secure webbing waist adjustment - Zipper and snap ankle closure fits over 45NRTH boots without creating excess bulk - Imported POCKETS: - Front pockets and zippered rear pockets with side access VENTILATION: - Zippered ventilation at the thighs and lower leg - SUGGESTED TEMP RANGE - 0°F (-18°C) to 25°F (-4°C) Comfort MATERIALS: - 88% Recycled Nylon, 12% Elastane - Exclusive of trims

Originating from the conceptual standpoint of a mountaineering boot, the new and evolved Wolvhammer is lighter, more comfortable, and grippier. The overhauled design features a removable synthetic liner and a three-piece proprietary bottom assembly compatible with flat and clipless pedals. When the cold winter creeps in, Wolvhammer has you covered. - Removable synthetic liner boot for quick drying - 3-piece proprietary bottom assembly is lighter, warmer, and offers more walking traction - Aerogel insulation blocks cold cleats and allows use of preferred insoles without sacrificing warmth - Real rubber outsole with microglass lugs. Comes with removable cleat plate for flat pedal use - Single-zone BOA closure with a gusseted tongue to keep winter elements out and warmth in - Suggested temperature range: 0° F (-18° C) to 25° F (-3° C)

Our warmest, most protective regularFit bib tights, engineered to ensure no amount of weather interrupts your winter program. BEHIND THE PRODUCT The MILLE GT Ultraz Winter Bib Tights are constructed with an arsenal of winterproof textiles to deliver unmatched levels of insulation, breathability, and weather resistance. We built upon the highly insulating platform that’s used in our standard Winter Bib Tights but then added a second layer to the exterior for more protection. Since weather can come from all sides, we charted 360º protection and comfort to ensure that the element-facing section of your legs and glutes remains protected from snow, rain, wind, and low temperatures, while the backs of the legs benefit from added breathability and comfort in this high-flex zone. To boost the Ultraz Bib Tights’ performance, we’ve pre-shaped and sewn the fabric panels to fully wrap and support the upper leg muscles, knees, and calves while in motion, where they flex with each pedal stroke.

Ultra-versatile helmet that is light, cool, and sleek with the added protection of MIPS and the convenience of magnetic light mounts. If you could only buy one helmet, this is the one. Whether your finish line is on the race course or to the front door of your destination the Bontrager Circuit MIPS road helmet will deliver. Equipped will all the best features including MIPS brain protection system, Boa fit system for superior comfort and security, and the Blendr mount system for light and camera integration. MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) was developed by brain surgeons and scientist to help reduce rotational forces on the brain caused by angled impacts to the head. Key features - MIPS Brain Protection System - Blendr mount system easily integrates GoPro camera and Bontrager lights accessories - The Boa System lets riders easily secure and adjusts helmet fit with one hand - In-mold composite skeleton increases helmet integrity for larger vent variations - AgION antimicrobial pads wick moisture and completely eliminate odors naturally - LockDown dividers make helmet strap management clean and are easy to adjust - Internal, recessed channels move airflow over your head to stay cool and dry - Crash Replacement Guarantee provides a free helmet replacement if involved in a crash within the first year of ownership

Bontrager XXX WaveCel delivers high-performance protection and the best in aerodynamics and comfort. XXX is the WaveCel helmet of choice for the Trek-Segafredo men's and women's teams. WaveCel is a collapsible cellular structure that lines the inside of the helmet. This Bontrager-exclusive technology disrupts the safety standards the industry has accepted for over 30 years. - WaveCel advanced helmet technology - The Boa System lets you easily secure and adjust helmet fit with just one hand - Easy-to-use adjustable strap dividers allow for a fine tune fit - An aerodynamic shape helps you outsmart the wind and ride faster - AgION antimicrobial pads wick away moisture and eliminate odors naturally - Additional NoSweat pad with silicone channel keeps sweat out of eyes for constant clarity - Team Trek-Segafredo sticker kit included with Viper Red, White, and Visibility Yellow colorways - Crash Replacement Guarantee provides a free helmet replacement if involved in a crash within the first year of ownership Sizing: - Small: 51-57cm - Medium: 54-60cm - Large: 58-63cm

A lightweight performance saddle for riders of all genders and disciplines, with a full cutout that delivers targeted support and soft tissue pressure relief. For mountain, for road, for men, for women Our most versatile performance saddle puts you in a power posture for speed and control wherever you ride—and it’s available in an wide range of sizes to ensure you get the fit you need. Verse Elite has Austenite rails that are lighter than Titanium, an inForm design with a full cutout shape for the ultimate in comfort and performance, and a rear-facing Blendr mount for a Flare tail light. Product details - Saddle design supports riders of all genders in a performance riding position on road and mountain bikes - Full saddle cutout minimizes soft tissue pressure for lasting comfort and performance - Austenite rails are lighter and stronger than hollow Titanium - Lightweight shell provides balance of weight, strength, and compliance - Elite-level trim optimizes foam padding for added lightweight comfort - Multiple widths and extended rail clamping area give more fit options - inForm saddles are born of cutting-edge biomechanical research to maximize performance and rider comfort - Available Blendr accessory mounts to cleanly integrate rear light

A versatile trail saddle with a shorter profile that gives targeted comfort to riders of all genders and all disciplines. Trail-ready comfort and performance Verse Short Elite Trail Saddle takes comfort to the trail with a lightweight yet durable design that offers targeted support for all riders, all genders, and any off-road discipline. The short profile with a full cutout provides lasting comfort and Wing Flex allows the saddle’s edges to flex and adapt to riders’ inner leg movement and pelvic rotation. Product details: - Short profile provides targeted support for riders of any gender in a performance riding position - Wing Flex allows the shell's edges to adapt to riders' inner leg movement and pelvic rotation - Full saddle cutout minimizes soft tissue pressure for lasting comfort and performance - Featherweight shell with Austenite rails that are lighter and stronger than hollow titanium - Rugged finishing materials combine with Elite-level foam for lightweight comfort and durability - Multiple widths and extended rail clamping area give more fit options - inForm saddles are born of cutting-edge biomechanical research to maximize performance and rider comfort - Blendr accessory mounts offer clean integration of a Flare tail light For men, for women, for mountain, for road. Verse Short is designed to add comfort for all genders. It's your go-to performance posture saddle for both trail and road. Features: Short profile The short profile provides targeted support and a performance riding position for all genders. Wing flex Wing flex allows the saddle shell's side edges to flex and adapt to a rider's inner leg movement and pelvic rotation. Full-length cutout A full saddle cutout minimizes soft tissue pressure for lasting comfort and performance. Blendr integration Easily mount Bontrager Flare rear lights with the Blendr accessory mount, available separately. Crash resistant Verse Short Trail Elite features an abrasion-resistant coating to protect your investment in case things get too rowdy on the trail.

A hikeable, clip-in compatible cycling shoe that will traverse any terrain and whatever comes after bikes are put away. Bontrager Avert is a lace-up bike shoe that can walk into whatever #GoByBike adventure you find—even after the bikes are put away. It's clip-in compatible and perfect for on- and off-bike escapes, from daily rides to multi-day tours and even hikes. And it's built with durable materials for lasting wear, a cushioned EVA midsole for all day comfort, and reverse lug traction for grip when you need it most. Product details - Durable, weather resistant, and breathable CORDURA® and suede upper construction for all-day, everyday use - High-traction reverse lug outsole can easily traverse any terrain you come across - Shock-absorbing EVA midsole for all day comfort - Classic lace closure system with convenient elastic lace keeper - Compatible with 2-bolt SPD-style cleats - Slip-on construction makes it easy to get on and off and assures the tongue never slides to one side

More fun with more flow Climb to new heights, roam further, and rider harder in the Foray Women's Mountain Shoe. An undeniably comfortable off-road cycling shoe featuring a Boa IP1 dial for a superior fit on rides of any length and intensity. No matter where or how you ride, this shoe won't quit thanks to a stiff sole with a durable upper with the added protection of GnarGuard for an overall reliable trail shoe. - inForm Race last offers a slightly roomier, high-performance fit - Nylon composite Bronze Series sole provides stiff yet walkable performance - Single Boa L6 dial allows easy and precise fit adjustments - Tachyon rubber outsole allows great grip in all terrains - Stiffness index 6 of 14 - Durable, GnarGuard rubberized coating protects against abrasions and fights debris - Compatible with 2-bolt SPD-style cleats - Women Specific Design is engineered specifically to yield better fit and greater comfort for women

When you're riding serious trails, you need serious protection. Bontrager Blaze WaveCel offers the best in performance and protection on any trail, from flowy singletrack to gnarly downhills. It’s built for style, comfort, and performance, and equipped with the industry's best safety tech for whatever trails you roam. WaveCel is a collapsible cellular structure that lines the inside of the helmet. This Bontrager-exclusive technology disrupts the safety standards the industry has accepted for over 30 years. - WaveCel advanced helmet technology - The Boa System lets you easily secure and adjust helmet fit with just one hand - Fidlock magnetic buckle fastens effortlessly for a quick, secure fit - Front Blendr mount system easily integrates GoPro camera and Bontrager light accessories - AgION antimicrobial pads wick away moisture and eliminate odors naturally - Additional NoSweat pad with silicone channel keeps sweat out of eyes for constant clarity - Drop-in coverage on back of helmet offers extended protection - Crash Replacement Guarantee provides a free helmet replacement if involved in a crash within the first year of ownership Sizing: - Small: 51-57cm - Medium: 54-60cm - Large: 58-63cm

Bontrager Charge WaveCel Commuter is a fashion-forward helmet that earns top marks in style and safety. It’s perfect for commutes, e-bike rides, and everyday adventures, and it's built with the most advanced helmet safety tech available so you don’t have to choose between fashion and function. WaveCel is a collapsible cellular structure that lines the inside of the helmet. This Bontrager-exclusive technology disrupts the safety standards the industry has accepted for over 30 years. - WaveCel advanced helmet technology - The Boa System lets you easily secure and adjust helmet fit with just one hand - Fidlock magnetic buckle fastens effortlessly for a quick, secure fit - Rear Blendr mount system easily integrates Bontrager light accessories - Soft, comfortable, moisture-wicking, and washable helmet pads - Built-in visor provides constant coverage against sun and rain - Reflective elements on back of helmet offer enhanced visibility to be seen - Crash Replacement Guarantee provides a free helmet replacement if involved in a crash within the first year of ownership Sizing: - Small: 51-57cm - Medium: 54-60cm - Large: 58-63cm

Get the road shoe that checks all the boxes for the committed road cyclist. Velocis is designed for the road bike rider that needs one pair of cycling shoes to give them more of what they want. The Boa System provides a perfect fit that locks in power through every pedal stroke. If you're not careful, sponsors may come calling. Key features - inForm Pro last delivers an ergonomically optimized, high-performance fit - Silver Series carbon/fiberglass composite sole for added stiffness - Boa IP1 dial for precise, two-way adjustment - Stiffness index 10 of 14 - Perforated synthetic uppers allow increased breathability and comfort - Sole Fiber Content: Carbon Composite - Liner Fiber Content: Shell: 100% Polyester, Lining: 100% Polyester

Get the road shoe that checks all the boxes for the committed road cyclist. Velocis is designed for the road bike rider that needs one pair of cycling shoes to give them more of what they want. The Boa System provides a perfect fit that locks in power through every pedal stroke. If you're not careful, sponsors may come calling. Key features - inForm Pro last delivers an ergonomically optimized, high-performance fit - Silver Series carbon/fiberglass composite sole for added stiffness - Boa IP1 dial for precise, two-way adjustment - Stiffness index 10 of 14 - Perforated synthetic uppers allow increased breathability and comfort - Sole Fiber Content: Carbon Composite - Liner Fiber Content: Shell: 100% Polyester, Lining: 100% Polyester

Bontrager XXX WaveCel LTD delivers high-performance protection and the best in aerodynamics and comfort. XXX is the WaveCel helmet of choice for the Trek-Segafredo men's and women's teams, and this LTD version is available in a run of limited edition colorways. WaveCel is a collapsible cellular structure that lines the inside of the helmet. This Bontrager-exclusive technology disrupts the safety standards the industry has accepted for over 30 years. - WaveCel advanced helmet technology - The Boa System lets you easily secure and adjust helmet fit with just one hand - Easy-to-use adjustable strap dividers allow for a fine tune fit - An aerodynamic shape helps you outsmart the wind and ride faster - AgION antimicrobial pads wick away moisture and eliminate odors naturally - Additional NoSweat pad with silicone channel keeps sweat out of eyes for constant clarity - Team Trek-Segafredo sticker kit included with Viper Red, White, and Visibility Yellow colorways - Crash Replacement Guarantee provides a free helmet replacement if involved in a crash within the first year of ownership Sizing: - Small: 51-57cm - Medium: 54-60cm - Large: 58-63cm

Stay trail-ready and daytime visible with this powerful light set packed with industry leading features. See and be seen The ultimate "see and be seen" bicycle light combo, this set is the easiest way to stay safe when you ride. The Ion Pro RT provides enough power to light up any trail, and the Flare RT is the ultimate daytime running rear light. Both are USB rechargeable and feature distinctive daytime flash settings that are visible from up to 2km during the day. Product details - Ion Pro RT provides a powerful beam that lights up the full width of any road or trail - Flare RT provides ultimate visibility for any road, city, or path - Connect with Garmin and Bontrager ANT+ devices for always on, battery status, and wireless control - Specifically designed focus, flash, and range flash patterns for daytime visibility for up to 2km - Easily attaches to your handlebars, helmet, or bike mount

Versatile and ultra-light, the Verse Pro gets a shorter profile for elevated comfort for riders of all genders and disciplines. Less is more A shorter profile elevates comfort across all riding positions for the top trim level of our most versatile performance saddle. Verse Elite’s targeted support and versatile design is ideal for all riders and genders. Carbon rails and a composite shell keep it ultra-light with added compliance. A full cutout ensures long-haul comfort, and Wing Flex allows the saddle shell's side edges adapt to riders’ inner leg movements and pelvic rotation. Product details: - Short profile provides targeted support for riders of any gender in a performance riding position - Wing Flex allows the shell's edges to adapt to rider's inner legs movement and pelvic rotation - Full saddle cutout minimizes soft tissue pressure for lasting comfort and performance - Lightweight carbon-reinforced shell perfectly balances weight, strength, and compliance - Oversized carbon rails for lightweight strength (specific seat post ear clamps required) - Multiple widths and extended rail clamping area give more fit options - inForm saddles are born of cutting-edge biomechanical research to maximize performance and rider comfort - Blendr accessory mounts offer clean integrated mount for rear Flare light Features: For men, for women, for mountain, for road. Verse Short is designed to add comfort for all genders. It's your go-to performance posture saddle for both trail and road. Short profile The short profile provides targeted support and a performance riding position for all genders. Wing flex Wing flex allows the saddle shell's side edges to flex and adapt to a rider's inner leg movement and pelvic rotation. Full-length cutout A full saddle cutout minimizes soft tissue pressure for lasting comfort and performance. Blendr integration Easily mount Bontrager Flare rear lights with the Blendr accessory mount, available separately.

A trail-tested mountain bike helmet with advanced WaveCel technology for comfort on any trail, any time. A major advancement in the protection against cycling-related head injuries. When you're riding serious trails, you need serious protection. Bontrager Blaze WaveCel LTD offers the best in performance and protection on any trail, from flowy singletrack to gnarly downhills, and it's available now in a run of limited edition colorways. WaveCel is a collapsible cellular structure that lines the inside of the helmet. This Bontrager-exclusive technology disrupts the safety standards the industry has accepted for over 30 years. Product details - WaveCel advanced helmet technology - BOA Fit System lets you easily secure and adjust helmet fit with just one hand - Fidlock magnetic buckle fastens effortlessly for a quick, secure fit - Front Blendr mount system easily integrates GoPro camera and Bontrager light accessories - Additional NoSweat pad with silicone channel keeps sweat out of eyes for constant clarity - Drop-in coverage on back of helmet offers extended protection - Crash Replacement Guarantee provides a free helmet replacement if involved in a crash within the first year of ownership

A trail-tested mountain bike helmet with advanced WaveCel technology for comfort and protection on any trail, any time. A major advancement in the protection against cycling-related head injuries When you're riding serious trails, you need serious protection. Blaze WaveCel offers Bontrager's best in performance and protection on any trail, from flowy singletrack to gnarly downhills. It’s built for style, comfort, and performance, and equipped with WaveCel for whatever trails you roam. WaveCel is a collapsible cellular structure that lines the inside of the helmet. This Bontrager-exclusive technology disrupts the safety standards the industry has accepted for over 30 years. Product details - WaveCel advanced helmet technology - BOA® Fit System lets you easily secure and adjust helmet fit with just one hand - Fidlock magnetic buckle fastens effortlessly for a quick, secure fit - Front Blendr mount system easily integrates GoPro camera and Bontrager light accessories - Additional NoSweat pad with silicone channel keeps sweat out of eyes for constant clarity - Drop-in coverage on back of helmet offers extended protection - Crash Replacement Guarantee provides a free helmet replacement if involved in a crash within the first year of ownership

The DT Swiss 240s road hub hits the sweet spot between light weight and reliability. On the winning end of countless Grand Tour stages and local races alike, these hubs will roll for thousands of nearly frictionless miles.

Whether you're biking or hiking, Endura's MT500 Waterproof II Jacket is the ultimate in trail protection. The 3-layer fabric, fully sealed seams, and helmet-compatible hood keep your upper body dry. Cordura shoulders featuring silicone grips hold your backpack in place while stretch panels allow you to move freely. As you get going and heat up, underarm 2-way zipped vents and 2 front pockets provide ventilation. This technical jacket comes complete with a napoleon pocket, glasses wipe, adjustable cuff and hem, and reflective accents.

The women's MT500 waterproof cycling jacket has earned legendary status in the mountain bike scene thanks to years of development & testing. This cycling jacket deploys ExoShell60 3-Layer waterproof fabric, which boasts a monster 60,000 gm/m2/24hr breathability as well as being powerfully waterproof. Not only that, but it is environmentally friendly, containing no PFCs. Nothing has been left to chance on this product. The jacket incorporates stretch paneling where you need it most for ease of movement, while backpack-compatible venting ensures that airflow around the body isn't compromised by wearing a pack. All zippers are YKK and highly rain-resistant. And, the hood has been developed to wear either over or under a helmet. Multiple pockets ensure that essentials can be stowed away and the chest pockets even double as venting. - Exceptionally breathable ExoShell60 3-Layer waterproof fabric - Durable shoulder fabric with silicone grip and ergonomically positioned stretch panels - Fully seam-sealed - 3D adjustment on hood - Ventilation by large underarm 2 way zipped vent extending onto back, compatible with backpack - Water-repellent VISLON zip with storm flap - Front pockets doubling as vents - Internal stretch cuff - Adjustable cuff and hem - Reflective trim

Made for us By Louis Garneau Unisex Racer Fit. WindDry Team front & back. Lycra Thermal Stelvio side panels and underarms. Body length 22"/56 cm. Raglan sleeves, side panels, 3 back pockets with reflector and signature gripper at waist, Elastic at wrists, Reflective piping front sleeves. Full length zip #4.5 with inner flap and zip garage. GARNEAU back reflective accent. All Freewheel Fanatics members receive 50% off. Now in stock. Quantities limited.

The Aether MIPS combines airy, open design with a revolution in rotational energy management to advance head protection for cyclists. Inside the Aether, a dual-density EPS foam liner helps to manage a wide range of impact energies, while also boasting deep internal channeling to provide cooling airflow. Giro's proprietary MIPS Spherical technology is integrated between the layers of EPS foam – instead of against the rider’s head – giving riders the benefits of MIPS without any obstruction to comfort or cooling power. Outside, a sleek 6-piece shell forms a stunning silhouette around the massive vents, which get added structural reinforcement via a shatter-resistant AURA reinforcing arch. The final touch is Giro's Roc Loc 5+ Air fit system, featuring 3-way fit tuning, that allows easy adjustment in seconds for the ultimate in comfort.

Confident and capable of cleaning the A-line yet budget-friendly to save up for a season of bucket-list rides, the 1/1 hub stays true to the performance heritage of Industry Nine. Featuring a dual phased-pawl drive mechanism accomplishing 90 points with 4° engagement, by way of a six pawl driver and 45-tooth drivering. - High-load sealed cartridge bearings - Classic j-bend spokes - Robust protection system using a labyrinth radial lip seal and endcap proximity seals unencumbered by bearing wear or preload - CNC machined, anodized, and assembled entirely in Asheville, NC - Service-friendly retained pawls actuated by durable leaf-springs - Unified service parts across the range

Park Tool's Crown Race Cutter Adaptor is used in conjunction with the CRC-1 Crown Race Cutting Tool (sold separately) to machine 39.8mm crown race seats (1.5” standard) on tapered forks with 1-1/8” steerer tubes. It includes a precision-machined adaptor body and a 39.8mm high-speed steel crown race cutter. The CRC-15 will work on forks with a maximum 1.5-inch taper of 4.25 inches.

Ride anywhere with this wide range XG-1275 cassette—it always provides the right gear. Fast on the flats. Control on the climbs. Dictate your own pace, anywhere. FULL PIN technology uses lightweight, stamped steel cogs held together with high-strength stainless steel pins. The result: a cassette that’s light and strong. The open design similar to SRAM's X-DOME cassette aids in mud clearance, giving you cleaner shifting performance and longer component life. X-GLIDE2 improves both inboard and outboard shifting, as well as chain retention. - Cassette Body Type: SRAM XD Cogs: - 10 – 50T: 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 21, 24, 28, 32, 36, 42, 50 - 10 – 52T: 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 21, 24, 28, 32, 36, 42, 52

FULL PIN technology uses ten lightweight, stamped steel cogs and one 42t aluminum cog held together with 123 high-strength stainless steel pins. The result: a cassette that’s light, durable and equipped with SRAM’s super wide 10-42 gear range that’s a perfect fit for any ride. The open design similar to SRAM's X-DOME cassette aids in mud clearance, giving you cleaner shifting performance and longer component life. - FULL PIN technology uses ten lightweight, stamped steel cogs and one 42t aluminum cog held together with 123 high-strength stainless steel pins - Super wide 10-42t gear range—a perfect fit for any ride - Optimized gear steps across entire range - Open design aids in mud clearance - XD driver body creates more stable hub connection - Cassette Body Type: SRAM XD 11/12 Speed - Cassette Cogs: 10-12-14-16-18-21-24-28-32-36-42 - Drivetrain Speeds: 11 - Weight: 325 g

For the Ultimate, we held nothing back. Our engineers sculpted the finest materials—titanium and carbon fiber—to make this our lightest four-piston brake ever. Power, modulation, and lever feel set a new standard. Personalization is quick and intuitive. And, for performance—well, our test riders didn't dub it the "Mini-Code" for nothing. - More caliper stiffness and a new pad compound with bite - Pivot bearings for crisp lever feel and a fatigue-free ride - SRAM's best power-to-weight ratio in a four-piston brake

Level Ultimate is the master of two forces—power and weight—in one sleek, durable design. In this build, we took every gram to task. Carbon-fiber lever blades for crisp, clean pulls. A new two-piece, two-piston caliper for superior heat management and smooth piston actuation. With Ultimate, total control is at your fingertips. - Modern XC power for today's most demanding races - Pivot bearings offer crisp lever feel and a fatigue-free ride - Engineered for easy installation and maintenance