Aenomaly SwitchGrade 2.0 EVO Review // Is the SwitchGrade Worth It?

Product Reviews  / BK Stancil / May 28, 2025

The SwitchGrade 2.0 EVO is an expertly machined product and is a clear solution for saddle clearance issues. The SwitchGrade would be particularly beneficial for riders on frames with limited seat post insertion needing to eke out every last bit of clearance possible when descending. The ability to angle the saddle forward for exceptionally steep sustained climbs was appreciated, helping to put me into a more comfortable climbing position. Meanwhile, the neutral position is readily available for flatter terrain and general trail riding.

Trickstuff Maxima Review // Compared to SRAM, Shimano, Hayes, and TRP

Product Reviews  / BK Stancil / Apr 24, 2025

The Trickstuff Maxima stands apart as a product in the world of high-performance mountain bike brakes. It's not just a brake system—it's a statement of precision engineering and boutique craftsmanship.

One Dropper To Rule Them All? // The New RockShox Reverb AXS

Product Reviews  / Rich F. / Apr 03, 2025

If you own multiple mountain bikes, every bike needs a separate dropper post, and that adds up fast. But what if you could own just one and swap it between bikes in seconds? Rich has developed a "One Dropper To Rule Them All" theory in which a wireless dropper post just makes more sense for owners of multiple bikes.

SRAM 90 Drivetrain Review // Mechanical Transmission Compared to AXS Transmission and Eagle

Product Reviews  / BK Stancil / Mar 27, 2025

Over the past few weeks, I've extensively tested the SRAM 90 groupset on my Stumpjumper EVO, experiencing its performance in a variety of weather conditions and riding scenarios. The smooth, responsive shifting of T-Type stands out, with SRAM 90 delivering faster and more reliable performance than previous Eagle drivetrains.

Specialized Hillbilly Review // Hillbilly Compared to High Roller III

Product Reviews  / BK Stancil / Jan 28, 2025

The Specialized tire lineup has proven itself to provide elite-level performance at an affordable price point, and the Hillbilly is no exception in its intended conditions. The tall mid-spiked knobs of the Hillbilly cut through loose soil and mud, allowing a rider to place their bike where they want regardless of wet the trail is. Considering its price and podium-proven performance, the Hillbilly is currently one of the best options on the market for tackling wet conditions.

A New Era of MTB Tires? We Review Schwalbe's Radial MTB Tires!

Product Reviews  / Rich F. / Jan 22, 2025

In our latest video, we dive into the details of Schwalbe's Radial construction and how it performs on trail compared to standard bias-ply tires. BK, Joey, and Rich have all spent time on Radial tires and head to the woods to discuss the unique characteristics of each tread, compound, and casing option available. Check out our review of Schwalbe's radial tires to learn about the ride characteristics of Schwalbe's new casing and determine which tread pattern is right for you.

Outbound Portal Light Review // Portal Compared to Hangover

Product Reviews  / BK Stancil / Dec 03, 2024

The Hangover and Trail Evo have been the go-to combination around the shop for their brightness and easy-to-use designs. While the Hangover is a fantastic option for a lightweight helmet-specific light, Outbound has introduced the all-new Portal, which aims to be their longest-lasting and most powerful headlight yet.

Schwalbe Albert Radial Tire Review // Albert Compared to Magic Mary

Product Reviews  / BK Stancil / Nov 26, 2024

The Schwalbe 29 x 2.5 Addix Ultra Soft Albert Trail tires offer a unique and compliant ride, particularly noticeable in their ability to conform to rough terrain and provide excellent traction. On climbs, the tires excel at wrapping around jagged rocks and roots, maintaining grip even in wet conditions, while on descents, the radial construction dampens chatter and enhances trail feel for a smoother ride.

Stumpjumper 15 Vivid Air Review // Stumpjumper 15 Compared to Stumpjumper EVO

Product Reviews  / BK Stancil / Nov 15, 2024

I’d summarize the ride quality of the Stumpjumper as “comfortably composed.” Whether I was on a meandering section of singletrack or a proper double black trail, the Stumpjumper 15 provided a ride quality that was as predictable as it was capable.

SRAM Eagle GX/X01 Review // The Best Budget Cable Actuated Drivetrain

Product Reviews  / BK Stancil / Nov 06, 2024

A combination of Sram Eagle GX and X01 components remains one of the best budget-friendly options for riders seeking high performance without the reliance on batteries or Bluetooth. Combining the GX cassette, chain, and crankset with the X01 shifter and derailleur delivers crisp, reliable shifting at a fraction of the cost of a full X01 system.

Maxxis High Roller III Review // High Roller Compared to Assegai and Hillbilly

Product Reviews  / BK Stancil / Sep 26, 2024

The new High Roller performs well over a variety of conditions, ranging from rim-deep moon dust to picturesque beds of rooty loam. When the sky opens up, and trails turn to mud, it provides a sense of security typically reserved for condition-specific spiked tread patterns. This tire is a fantastic option for riders who value the utmost traction and performance in wetter climates and loose conditions. 

RockShox Lyrik Ultimate Review // RockShox Charger 3 Compared to Charger 3.1

Product Reviews  / BK Stancil / Sep 11, 2024

The Charger 3.1 isn’t a complete overhaul but rather the introduction of incremental refinements that improve upon what was already a great product. This latest iteration of RockShox suspension is a fantastic option for riders who enjoy the ride quality of the Charger 3 but are looking for a larger range of adjustability or want a damper that provides a slightly more open feeling at its baseline positioning.

DT Swiss 240 DEG Review

Product Reviews  / BK Stancil / May 28, 2024

Building on a legacy of ratchet freehubs, DT Swiss introduces the new 240 DEG, boasting enhanced engagement and sturdier internals. Externally, it closely resembles the 240 EXP, except for a slightly larger hub shell and flanges. The fundamental distinction lies in its all-new internals, featuring a larger 90-tooth ratchet and an impressive 4-degree engagement, setting it apart from other models in the DT Swiss lineup. 

RockShox Vivid Air Ultimate Review // The Best Air Shock for MTB?

Product Reviews  / BK Stancil / May 08, 2024

With development dating back to the 2021 World Cup season, RockShox was diligent about utilizing rider feedback to create the best gravity-oriented air shock possible. Setup correctly, the Vivid blends the ultra-sensitive initial feeling that coils are favored for while providing more support and responsiveness in the latter two-thirds of its stroke. Additionally, it is more easily tunable than a coil shock and weighs slightly less. 

TRP EVO 12 Drivetrain Review // TRP Compared to SRAM

Product Reviews  / BK Stancil / Mar 15, 2024

Much like TRP has managed to establish the DH-R EVO brakes as a viable stopping power alongside the likes of SRAM and Shimano, the Taiwanese manufacturer has released an all-new drivetrain to become a viable third option in the market. In a world where wireless technology and batteries seemingly find a way to every component possible, TRP’s attempt at providing polished, no-fuss mechanical components is a welcome sight. The all-new EVO 12 is a 12-speed cable-actuated drivetrain with a few hidden tricks that make it a viable option against other manufacturers’ offerings.

SRAM Maven Review // New SRAM Brakes Compared to Code RSC

Product Reviews  / BK Stancil / Feb 22, 2024

SRAM has reacted to the increasing demands of modern mountain biking with their most powerful brake yet, Maven. With a near 50% increase in power over the Code RSC, along with better heat management and fade resistance, the Maven brake enters the SRAM lineup as their premium gravity-oriented option for riders looking for the most stopping power possible. SRAM Maven review and comparison to Code RSC.

Shimano's Latest Waterproof Riding Shoe // SH-GF800 GTX Reviewed

Product Reviews  / BK Stancil / Jan 05, 2024

Soggy feet are detrimental for most outdoor activities, especially when midway through a bike ride in sub-40-degree weather with another 10+ miles to pedal. To eliminate such scenarios, Shimano has released the SH-GF800 GTX Flat Shoe. The Shimano GTX Flat has all the makings of a Pacific Northwest winter-worthy shoe, featuring a Gore-Tex waterproof upper and a tight-fitting ankle cuff.

Winter Glove Review // Best MTB Gloves for Cold Weather

Product Reviews  / BK Stancil / Dec 20, 2023

A proper set of insulated riding gloves can go a long way in helping a rider maintain control of their bike and continue to rack up miles in the winter months. We have compiled a list of our favorite gloves for winter riding, including everything from minimalist waterproof gloves, to the warmest mountain biking gloves on the market. 

RockShox Reverb AXS Wireless Dropper Review // The Last Dropper Post You’ll Ever Need

Product Reviews  / BK Stancil / Nov 22, 2023

Instead of relying on cables and cumbersome routing, the AXS Dropper post utilizes a wireless remote to initiate saddle height adjustments. By eliminating another cable on the bike, SRAM has effectively reduces clutter on the handlebars while introducing one of the most responsive dropper posts on the market.

GOREWEAR MTB Apparel Review // Best Gear for Wet Weather Riding?

Product Reviews  / BK Stancil / Nov 20, 2023

While the GOREWEAR brand is more commonly associated with waterproof winter gear and tight-fitting road cycling apparel, the company has taken a new aim at bringing its waterproof technology to the mountain biking industry. Having recently gotten to try the new Fernflow and Endure pants along with the Lupra Jacket, my perception of GOREWEAR has shifted to include mountain bikers as well.

Hope Pro 5 Hub Review

Product Reviews  / Dan Perl / Oct 16, 2023

If you’ve been mountain biking for long, you’ve heard of Hope Tech components. This legendary brand out of Barnoldswick, England, has been designing and manufacturing their storied hubs and brakes in-house since the year before I was born, back in 1989.

31.8mm vs 35mm Handlebars // Deity Skyline 787 and Skywire 35 Reviewed

Product Reviews  / BK Stancil / Sep 08, 2023

While handlebars are a simple component in appearance, they are crucial for steering and riding inputs. Constructed with differing amounts of rise, back sweep, and widths, various profiles are available to suit rider preferences. 

Forbidden Druid V2 Reviewed // High Pivot Witchcraft at Its Finest

Product Reviews  / Dan Perl / Aug 11, 2023

Forbidden is surrounded by mystique; they are a small brand that currently only has two bike models, based out of a tiny town on a remote island in western Canada. Most notably, they are one of a very few brands who employ a high pivot design for their trail bike, the Forbidden Druid.

Hope Tech 4 E4 Review // E4 Compared to V4

Product Reviews  / BK Stancil / Aug 09, 2023

The Hope Tech 4 E4 is one of the most adjustable brakes on the market and can be tailored to suit a wide variety of preferences. Beyond the majorly updated lever profile, Hope has introduced a number of improvements internally provinding better performance and less frequently required caliper maintenance. 

SRAM Transmission Reviewed | Everything You Need to Know

Product Reviews  / Dan Perl / Mar 21, 2023

I never liked SRAM AXS. It doesn’t shift better, it’s not much easier to set up, and it’s not more durable. It’s also way more expensive.
I've got to admit, at first I thought Transmission, SRAM's new electronic drivetrain, was just another meaningless update to get us to spend more money.
But then I realized that although it's still a derailleur, there are real performance improvements. After spending time on it, the fact of the matter is that SRAM Transmission is the best derailleur that I’ve ever used.

The 2023 Transition Smuggler | Ridden and Reviewed

Product Reviews  / Dan Perl / Feb 17, 2023

There has been a mysterious hole in Transition’s line up since 2020. There's the do-everything Sentinel (aka Send-it-all). The astonishingly capable and light-weight Spur. And of course the enduro-ready Spire, which might as well be a pedalable downhill bike. So what does Transition have for those of us who aren't looking to send it all, or wear spandex, or pedal a downhill bike around?

Winter Riding Essentials // Fox Water Apparel Review

Product Reviews  / BK Stancil / Jan 03, 2023

When pairing the Water jacket, pants, and gloves, I have not only stayed dry on rainy days but have found myself eager to embrace the elements in my wintertime search of riding.

Smith Mainline and Squad MTB Goggles Review

Product Reviews  / BK Stancil / Dec 06, 2022

The Smith Mainline is an ultra-lightweight full-face helmet created to protect the likes of Elite EWS racers Jesse Melamed and Remi Gauvin. With the average EWS race consisting of numerous grueling transfers and some of the world's longest, most challenging downhill stages, the Mainline had to be robust enough to protect against crashes at elite racing speeds but light and  breathable enough to allow it to go unnoticed for a full days worth of racing.  

Smith Helmet and Glasses Long-Term Review

Product Reviews  / BK Stancil / Nov 03, 2022

What makes Smith protection and eyewear appealing is the greater product line they are a part of. Designed to functionally integrate with one another, the helmets and eyewear pair perfectly.

Fox Launches the Proframe RS Helmet

Product Reviews  / BK Stancil / Oct 12, 2022

Fox has taken the beloved Proframe and injected it with industry-leading safety systems and a highly adjustable BOA fit system. By dramatically improving the lightweight build and ventilation that made the original Proframe popular, they’ve created a phenomenal contender for those in search of a lightweight full-face.

Fox Racing Mountain Bike Pants Review

Product Reviews  / BK Stancil / Aug 17, 2022

Some of my co-workers and I had the opportunity to test a variety of Fox’s latest pants and chat about their differences. The models we tested ranged from the ultra light and pedal friendly Flexair Pro and Ranger, to the protective, downhill-oriented Defend. While all of these models share the same high quality construction as my previous Fox Flexair pants, they each have features unique to their intended use. 

Revel Rail 29 | Ridden and Reviewed

Product Reviews  / Dan Perl / Jul 22, 2022

I’ve hit all types of trails on the Revel Rail 29; from easy to hard, chunky to flowy, slow to blisteringly fast, this bike is an absolute blast on all of them. And for me, having one bike that brings a smile to my face no matter the occasion is all I could ask for.

Marzocchi Bomber Air Review

Product Reviews  / BK Stancil / Jun 13, 2022

Marzocchi honed in on the ever-elusive balance between price and performance with its newest shock, bridging the gap between less-than-ideal entry-level suspension and more complex offerings. For riders looking to upgrade their rear shock while keeping budget in mind, the Bomber Air offers an easily tunable platform and dependable performance. 

Five Ten Trailcross Gore-Tex Long-Term Review

Product Reviews  / BK Stancil / Apr 28, 2022

Utilizing a Gore-Tex membrane and neoprene collar, the Trailcross Gore-Tex was designed with the intention of setting the bar for what a waterproof mountain biking shoe should be.

Kuat NV 2.0 and Kuat Transfer v2 Bike Rack Review

Product Reviews  / BK Stancil / Feb 16, 2022

A bike rack should be viewed as an investment. Not only is it an investment in overall riding experience, but also the safety of a bike when in transport. The build quality of the NV 2.0 and all of its features greatly complements an avid rider who is already deeply invested in the sport. Meanwhile, the Transfer is a great option for a more entry-level rider or someone who is more budget-minded. 

Night Riding: Outbound Lighting Trail Evo & Hangover Review

Product Reviews  / BK Stancil / Jan 10, 2022

A set of lights can allow you to ride at night; a quality set of lights can allow you to ride at night at daytime speeds. The combination of Outbound’s Trail Evo and Hangover allowed for just that, and I am now comfortable enough to ride with a similar aggressiveness at night that I would during the day.

Fanatik Custom Wheel Builder // Best Performance VS Cost Build

Product Reviews  / BK Stancil / Nov 11, 2021

“At Fanatik our standards for wheel building are so high that it was almost as if I had to relearn how to build a wheel."

Specialized's New Tire Compounds // As Good as Maxxis

Product Reviews  / Dan Perl / Oct 26, 2021

Specialized has always positioned their price point at slightly less than that of the competition’s and previously, that was reflected in the user experience. With the latest revisions, particularly in the rubber compound, I’d say that these tires have the same level of performance as those from Maxxis and Schwalbe, and remain anywhere from $15 to $30 less expensive. 

CushCore Tire Inserts - Reviewed

Product Reviews  / BK Stancil / Oct 12, 2021

BK tells us why he sees CushCore not as a luxury but as a necessity for today's trail/enduro mountain bikes.

GX AXS Long-Term Review

Product Reviews  / Dan Perl / Sep 06, 2021

AXS is the cutting edge of bicycle technology, and if you're looking for the latest and greatest, then you should be on AXS. GX AXS is without any doubt the best value of the bunch, with no real downsides.

Evil Insurgent MX - Ridden and Reviewed

Product Reviews  / Dan Perl / Jun 08, 2021

The Insurgent has always been Evil’s huckster, and has developed a cult following among folks who value the playfulness of 27.5” wheels, short chainstays, and a low center of gravity. Today, Evil launches their mulleted update, the Insurgent MX. 

Reviewed: 2022 Fox 34 Step-Cast

Product Reviews  / Dan Perl / Apr 20, 2021

Dan reviews the all new Fox 34 Step-Cast, designed specifically for downcountry (i.e. aggressive XC) use, after spending some time with it mounted up on his Evil Following. Using technologies introduced last year in the 38, the 34 Step-Cast is stiffer, lighter, and more refined than ever.

The Ibis Ripley AF: The Best Bike for the Most People

Product Reviews  / Dan Perl / Jan 19, 2021

Every time I hop on the Ripley AF, other bikes seem to fade from my memory. This bike just fits. There’s no learning curve. The weight is distributed correctly, the suspension does what it’s supposed to do with no tinkering, the brakes are phenomenal… it all comes together in a crescendo of fun that, frankly, still astonishes me every time I ride it.

Evil The Offering V2 Reviewed // Offering v. Wreckoning v. Following

Product Reviews  / Dan Perl / Dec 08, 2020

It's easy to find yourself looking at one of Evil's gorgeous new mountain bikes and asking yourself "do I want the light-weight Following, or maybe the welter-weight Offering? Or why not go all in and pick up the Rampage-ready Wreckoning?" In this comparison of Evil's three bikes, we find the answer to that very question.

Finally, 200mm Drop! // The 2021 Fox Transfer Dropper Post, Reviewed

Product Reviews  / Dan Perl / Nov 23, 2020

With its launch, the Transfer post bucked all the trends and gave us exactly what we wanted. Cable actuation. Internal routing. An incredibly smooth action, and internals that required very little maintenance. Now, for 2021, Fox has further refined the post and given us a model with 200mm of drop.

Industry Nine System Wheels: Explained & Reviewed

Product Reviews  / Dan Perl / Aug 11, 2020

A Ferrari isn’t a Ferrari just because it’s fast. It has to look and sound the part, and when you mount a set of System Wheels up to your bike, that’s what you get -performance and aesthetics that a $600 wheelset simply can't match. Learn why in this review of Industry Nine's EN315 System wheels.

RockShox ZEB - Reviewed

Product Reviews  / Dan Perl / Jul 08, 2020

Bikes like the new Wreckoning are designed to be piloted down the roughest terrain without batting an eye, but that all starts with the fork. With the ZEB, RockShox introduces a purpose-built 38mm diameter single-crown fork to their line-up, created specifically to keep your front wheel tracking true no matter what you point yourself down.

Transition Spur / Revel Ranger - Reviewed and Compared

Product Reviews  / Dan Perl / Jun 30, 2020

These are bikes we think hit all the marks but that have slightly different heritage and sensibilities. We'll break down the differences and examine what might push you towards one or the other.

Transition's 2020 Scout Carbon SBG - Reviewed

Product Reviews  / Dan Perl / Feb 14, 2020

Why has the Scout always been my go-to recommendation? As I see it, it is the perfect do-it-all bike for anyone who isn’t hell-bent on smashing technical downhill trails as fast as you can. It has enough travel that it certainly can do that, but also not so much that it’s soaking up your speed on smoother flow/jump trails, or making long alpine single-track into a death-march… basically, it’s a bike that keeps biking fun, which is why the vast majority of us do it.

Transition Patrol #OnCoil - Reviewed

Product Reviews  / Dan Perl / Oct 29, 2019

This 160mm travel, long, slack, and low enduro sled using Speed Balanced Geometry, or SBG, which features reduced offset forks from Fox and Rockshox, long front centers, steep seat tube angles, and extremely short stems.

Ridden and Reviewed: Ibis Mojo HD5

Product Reviews  / Dan Perl / Sep 24, 2019

"I loved my HD4, but there were a few things that I wanted to be different; namely, I wanted a slightly longer reach without feeling more stretched out while pedaling, I wanted a slightly longer wheelbase, and I wanted a slacker head-tube angle. With the HD5 Ibis has addressed all those items, while making the bike a hair lighter and stiffer than before! I love it." - Dan at Fanatik

Ibis: Ripmo AF Review

Product Reviews  / Dan Perl / Sep 10, 2019

Introducing the Ripmo AF, Ibis's revised take on what a gnarly 29'er enduro bike could be. With a one-degree slacker head-tube than the carbon Ripmo, and the ability to run a coil-sprung shock, this bike is built to take on whatever abuse you can throw at it: days in the bike park, enduro races, or all day pedals.

Ibis Ripley 4 - Reviewed

Product Reviews  / Dan Perl / Jun 15, 2019

Believe it or not, the Ripley has now entered its fourth generation. Once described by Ibis founder Scot Nicol as “the best bike for most people,” the Ripley is a 120mm rear travel 29’er, long beloved by riders and testers around the world.

Evil Offering - Reviewed

Product Reviews  / Jadyn W. / Sep 28, 2018

The lines are once again blurred, as Evil introduces a new big wheeled steed to their lineup. Being a pioneering company of the 29'er revolution, Evil knows a thing or two about making the most of the 29"-wheeled platform. 

Ibis Ripmo: First Ride Impressions

Product Reviews  / Brian Chapel / Mar 29, 2018

A genre-defying 29'er, the Ibis Ripmo is part enduro, part all-mountain, and part trail bike. A 160mm of reduced offset fork, 145mm DW-link rear suspension, and a light carbon fiber frame make a bike that rips on both the ups and downs.

Cane Creek Helm Fork - Reviewed

Product Reviews  / Dan Perl / Jan 31, 2018

The Helm is designed to conquer aggressive trail, enduro racing, and anything in between. By isolating each damping and air spring adjustment, the Helm has the ability to be tuned for all typ...

Bell Super DH - Reviewed

Product Reviews  / Dan Perl / Jan 17, 2018

The Super DH is the successor to Bell’s Super 3R. That helmet sought to capitalize on the “enduro” craze by offering a halfshell to which you could affix a chinbar.

Transition Sentinel - Reviewed

Product Reviews  / Jadyn W. / Jan 08, 2018

Transition’s wildest ride yet Chasing dreams in the woods. Those of you that know me are probably aware of my affection for 29” wheels.

Ibis Mojo HD4 Review

Product Reviews  / Conor Barry / Nov 30, 2017

The folks at Ibis have been hard at work over the last year or so year, releasing four new models. I’ve been lucky enough to throw a leg over the Mojo 3, Ripley LS and the Mojo HD4 this year.

Evil Following MB - Reviewed

Product Reviews  / Jadyn W. / Aug 23, 2017

The Following MB is improved in many ways, and all-in-all is a more refined bike compared to the V1 Following.

Ibis Ripley Gen 3 Review

Product Reviews  / Brian Chapel / Jul 19, 2017

It’s fun, nimble, climbs like a mountain goat, and has confidence inspiring geometry. 

Ibis Mojo 3 Long Term Review

Product Reviews  / Conor Barry / Jul 04, 2017

The Mojo 3 a jack-of-all-trades. It’s a balanced trail bike that does most everything very well.

Fox Transfer Dropper - Midterm Review

Product Reviews  / Dan Perl / Dec 20, 2016

The Fox Transfer dropper seat post is the long-awaited update to their reliable but un-sightly D.O.S.S. post, and with it they have succeeded in creating a dropper that checks all the marks, from reliability and durability, to improved ergonomics and aesthetics. With internally and externally routed options, this reasonably priced post should definitely be on your short-list..

Evil Calling - Ridden and Reviewed

Product Reviews  / Jadyn Welch / Dec 01, 2016

The Calling is a bike that loves to go play in the woods. I found the bike to be right at home on fast, flowy trails with lots of pop.

PUSH ElevenSix Reviewed: First Impressions

Product Reviews  / Jadyn W. / Oct 06, 2016

With the knowledge gained over decades of tuning suspension, PUSH went to the drawing board to create the most customizable and tunable rear shock the mountain bike world has seen.

Ibis Cycles: the Ripley LS and the Mojo 3 Reviewed

Product Reviews  / Dan Perl / Sep 13, 2016

The Ibis Ripley LS 29'er and the Mojo 3 27.5+ mountain bikes are both strong contenders in today's trail bike market. Which is right for you?

Evil: The Insurgent and The Wreckoning Reviewed

Product Reviews  / Dan Perl / Mar 14, 2016

At this point you may be wondering: what does the Wreckoning do that the Insurgent doesn’t? Why might I want one versus the other?

Raceface Love Handle Grip Review

Product Reviews  / Dan Perl / Sep 15, 2015

It is a highly contoured grip, with the diameter tapering from 30mm in the middle of the grip to a thinner 28mm near the ends, before expanding to the love handles at the edges from which they derive their name.