absoluteBLACK Oval Direct Mount Chainring and Wolf Tooth Premium Headset [Rider Review]

Our "Rider Review" article series features the honest reviews from verified purchasers of Worldwide Cyclery. They contain the photos, thoughts, feedback & overall review you are looking for. 

AbsoluteBlack and Wolf Tooth are known for their attention to detail and flawless machining. Although they are technically competitors, the two make a great duo on any bike and serve as the perfect complement to a bike that doesn't need much to make it better. Oval chainrings are buzzing right now so let's see what Larry thought of his recent upgrade:

Larry's Review:

Chainrings and headsets are typically items that you really don’t notice all that much if they are doing their job. Usually, you only notice them when they aren’t working properly or in my case with the oval ring when you riding a bike with a round ring. I am sold personally on the merits of oval rings. As a rider that loves the challenge of a good techy climb just as much as fast decent, oval rings help me to put more power into the pedal stroke when it's needed. Output feels more balanced and I find myself breaking traction far less often. I’m reminded of this every time I hop on a bike with a round ring. Hence why I’ve been on oval rings since trying one about 4 years ago. I haven’t honestly been able to tell a difference between brands amount of “ovality” but I can say that there’s not a more aesthetic option than absoluteBLACK. The intricate design and CNC work all make for a beautiful piece and really complete the look and finer details on a custom build. I’ve not run into an issue with their rings having short lives or not interfacing properly with the chain or cranks. I never drop chains and the few times I have, it’s been because I was trying to drag a tree branch or bush through my drivetrain.

They work well, last, and are stunning to look at.

With the Wolf Tooth Premium Headset, the details are what has sold me. The crown race to the to cap for the upper bearing all have seals built in to help keep the unwanted water and dirt out. It’s nice when you open the headset to grease and service everything and find minimal dirt has worked its way in. This has translated into longer intervals of service and fewer bearing replacements on previous builds. High-quality bearings have been used through out and keep things spinning smooth. The anodizing and etching, as well as fit, are all top-notch and all the color match options take the customization level to the max. It’s also nice to support some domestic manufacturing when possible! - Larry