April 19th, 2011, 04:18 AM | #1 |
User Title Free Since '12
Name: Floyd
Location: Barbados
Join Date: Dec 2010 Motorcycle(s): '10 Ninja 250R Special Edition Green Posts: A lot.
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BiLT Trackstar Boot Review
I've been commuting with my BiLT Trackstar Boots ($69 from Cycle Gear) for a few days now, and wanted to share my initial impressions.
Construction: Surprisingly, not bad at all. Double stiching, not a single thread out of place. YKK zippers. There was one spot on my boot where you can see the chalk mark where the leather was hand marked for hand stitching of the zipper assembly. (I can almost imagine the underpaid Pakistani woman hand sewing it. ) Not the thickest or best quality leather, and I'm not sure how tough the thread is on the double stitching, so we'll see how they hold up over time. Still, much better than I expected so far. Overall, I can see why they put a five year warranty on them. Safety: They are leather boots with solid heel, ankle, shin and toe protection. The toe slider is replaceable and there is a reflective panel on the heel. The ankle is protected from abrasion by both a semi-rigid disc and a harder insert underneath. The heel, toe and shin also benefit from reinforcement under the exterior sliders. The unreinforced perforated leather portion is thinner leather and would offer some abrasion resistance, but not that offered by a track boot or upper range touring boot. I am frankly a bit surprised to say these would offer pretty good protection in a get off, and expected something flimsier for the cost. Overall protection is better than non-rigid motorcycle shoes and on par with a mid-range touring boot, but not to the level of a real track boot or upper range tourer. The element missing from a real track boot is the protection from high speed ankle bend offered by a fully rigid and hinged ankle. Otherwise, these are a solid safety option for commuting or touring. Comfort: On the bike and standing still, they are as comfortable as any boot I've had. The liner is moisture wicking and breathes well. The perforated leather bits offer just enough airflow to work better than any boot I've had in hot weather, but that is hindered by (thankfully) quite a bit of reinforcement in the toe, ankle and heel areas. They are very easy to put on, with a long side zipper offering easy access. With longer walks off the bike they have some issues. No problem from the parking lot into work, or for short periods, but I wouldn't want to be caught on a long hike with only these boots. The issue is that the good safety reinforcement in the toe stops about 1/2 way up the foot, and the soft, breathable leather above that has quite a bit of give for comfort. So when you walk, the reinforced part hits the top of your foot as the boot flexes. The calf area is large, constructed to fit different sizes with room to lean or stand straight comfortably - however, this makes it a tough fit under tight pants and less than ideal for the commuter boot they really are. These aren't quite as comfortable walking as a good touring boot would be, but exceed that comfort on the bike in hot weather. Special Features: The perforated leather is a great feature for warm weather, making the boot a very good value option for some climates. This would also make them bad in the rain. The side YKK zippers offer very easy entry, but covering the zipper pull in velcro is a nice touch. The zippers grab on the velcro that holds the zipper flap in place, keeping them from creeping down on a long ride. Fit: They are close to true to size, but not quite. They are manufactured on the EU system so my size 11 are actually EU 44 - not quite a true US 11 (slightly smaller). Cycle Gear didn't tell me this. Funny thing is that even though they are manufactured on the EU sizing, they are sold only in full US sizes, so there are going to be some feet that don't have a perfect fit out of the box. I suspect with the leather construction after a decent breakin, they will end up with a nice fit for nearly everyone. Luckily for me, 44 is my perfect fit and I love the ways these feel even before breakin. Price: Unbeatable at $69. You can't get decent quality boots for this price anywhere. The are actually better than my $169 A*s, my $79 Vegas and my $189 Tourmasters (though I confess to buying sh*t boots in the A*s and Vegas). Conclusion: A decent boot worth buying for warm weather. They shoot themselves in the boot () by calling them Trackstars. They aren't boots for racing, so don't go in thinking you are buying Dianese or A* track boots or you will be disappointed. But if you consider them mid-range, warm weather commuters or touring boots, they are actually quite good. Considering the low-range price tag, the mid-range performance makes them an amazing value.
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April 19th, 2011, 05:14 AM | #2 |
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Name: Jason
Location: Jacksonville, Florida
Join Date: May 2010 Motorcycle(s): 09 Ninja 250R SE, 07 Honda CRF230F, 06 Honda CRF150F Posts: A lot.
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Thanks for the review Floyd. Very informative.
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April 19th, 2011, 09:21 AM | #3 |
Perpetual Newb
Name: Jason
Location: Imperial, MO
Join Date: Mar 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2010 MIB Ninja 250R [sold]; 2006 CBR600RR [sold]; 2013 Triumph Street Triple R Posts: 782
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LOL.. I was actually in the middle of uploading the photos I took of my BILT Trackstars to post my own review. If you don't mind, gfloyd2002 I'm going to just post my thoughts in your thread and use yours to post my photos. If you object, just let me know and I'll pull out my reply and post a new thread.
------------------------ *Disclaimer* - I'm a riding newb, these are my first boots so I have no previous experience with riding boots from which to draw any comparisons. Take my info with a grain of salt I guess. I bought these this past Saturday and I've worn these for about 160 miles - all from one ride this past Sunday. My impressions, to be perfectly honest, are pretty much an echo of what gfloyd2002 said with exception to fit. I wear US 8.5 to 9.5 - depending on the shoe - Nike, Adidas, etc. and the smallest they make in this boot is a US 8 (no half sizes) which actually felt the slightest bit big. Luckily the large velcro closure panels allow me to overlap a bit to keep the boot snug. I honestly believe if they had a US 7.5 it'd be perfect for me. In regard to fit, if you consider these, I'd definitely make sure to try a pair on prior to buying as opposed to blindly ordering over the internet. Safety - what gfloyd2002 said.... but also, for me, it has a nice hard shell on the top front of the boot which actually perfectly meets up to the bottom of the knee pads in my Joe Rocket Atomic pants so I've got some padding/protection all the way up from my toes to my knees against rocks or other debris that may get kicked up. Additionally, prior to these boots I'd just been wearing sneakers - all I had to wear really - so I was very accustomed to the sensitivity I had in feeling the shift lever. With these boots and the hard molded toe I had a heck of a time getting use to the loss of touch when sliding my toe under the the lever for upshifts. I got used to it after awhile but I think if I go for a week or so between rides I'll have to get used to it all over again until I've been wearing them for quite awhile. I'm sure this is common with most riding boots of this style, just offering my newb observation for any other newb riders who may be reading this and considering this boot. Comfort - what gfloyd2002 said.. I don't think I'd be able to walk around all day in these things but for quick runs to the store they'd do nicely. I'm leaving my dress shoes in my office at work and will be wearing these boots to and from home/office and just change into my shoes when I get there. On weekends I'll probably carry some sneakers in my back pack to change into if I'm going to be out off my bike for a considerable amount of time. For all other points, gfloyd2002 covered it more eloquently than I. For the price I feel like I got the best bang for the buck in terms of protection. As a new rider at the end of my budget for riding gear, I didn't really have the cash to drop on a name brand boot and while we really can't have too much protection when riding, I don't know if I exactly NEEDED a true racing boot or anything for my daily commuting and fun-runs on the weekend. To be honest, I feel a bit like a twit being a new rider with these track-style "racing" boots but luckily my pants cover them nicely so the only hint that these are anything more than a touring boot is the toe-slider. And now for some photos.... Last futzed with by reaubideux; April 25th, 2011 at 07:06 AM. |
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April 19th, 2011, 03:09 PM | #4 |
User Title Free Since '12
Name: Floyd
Location: Barbados
Join Date: Dec 2010 Motorcycle(s): '10 Ninja 250R Special Edition Green Posts: A lot.
Blog Entries: 13
MOTM - Feb '12
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Thanks, Jason! A nice improvement to my original post this morning, and will keep me from having to add my own photos.
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April 19th, 2011, 03:41 PM | #5 |
Perpetual Newb
Name: Jason
Location: Imperial, MO
Join Date: Mar 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2010 MIB Ninja 250R [sold]; 2006 CBR600RR [sold]; 2013 Triumph Street Triple R Posts: 782
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No sweat. Glad I could help.
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April 19th, 2011, 03:56 PM | #6 |
GDTRFB
Name: Drew
Location: SE PA
Join Date: Nov 2010 Motorcycle(s): 2009 Ninja 250 - sold 2005 EX500R project Posts: 496
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Interesting... I recently got an email/marketing from Cycle Gear showing a "complete" set of track gear including helmet, one piece leather suit, gloves and boots for less than $500.00. The price alone makes me wonder about the brand.
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April 19th, 2011, 04:04 PM | #7 | |
User Title Free Since '12
Name: Floyd
Location: Barbados
Join Date: Dec 2010 Motorcycle(s): '10 Ninja 250R Special Edition Green Posts: A lot.
Blog Entries: 13
MOTM - Feb '12
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Posted in a different thread, but included here for one-stop shopping:
Quote:
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"Improvement makes straight roads, but the crooked roads without improvement, are roads of genius." — William Blake |
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April 19th, 2011, 04:51 PM | #8 |
GDTRFB
Name: Drew
Location: SE PA
Join Date: Nov 2010 Motorcycle(s): 2009 Ninja 250 - sold 2005 EX500R project Posts: 496
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Excellent, thanks Floyd. Are you a boogie man!
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April 19th, 2011, 05:02 PM | #9 |
ninjette.org sage
Name: Dre
Location: DMV
Join Date: Aug 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2014 Ninja 300, 2008 ZX6, 2011 Ninja 1000 Posts: 622
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Just got mine yesterday. Same thoughts as above. The only thing I would add is having a padded insole isn't a bad idea. They aren't very comfortable to walk or stand in after a few minutes. But for the price, a must buy if you can.
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April 20th, 2011, 06:00 AM | #10 |
Perpetual Newb
Name: Jason
Location: Imperial, MO
Join Date: Mar 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2010 MIB Ninja 250R [sold]; 2006 CBR600RR [sold]; 2013 Triumph Street Triple R Posts: 782
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Just thought I'd add that I rode into work this morning in 42°F at speeds up to (speedo incidcated) 85mph so I guess more like 77 and could feel a decent flow of air on my feet but they never got cold. I had thicker dress socks on so that may have helped but I think these would be okay to use as a 3-season boot vs. summer-only.
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April 24th, 2011, 05:31 PM | #11 |
ninjette.org sage
Name: T
Location: U.S.
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Hey thanks for the review, Floyd. BTW, which model A*s and Tourmaster products were they? I'd like to stay away from those if possible.
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April 24th, 2011, 07:39 PM | #12 |
Texas Newbie
Name: John
Location: D/FW Texas
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Great reviews... Thanks for your time and efforts...
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April 25th, 2011, 12:02 AM | #13 | |
User Title Free Since '12
Name: Floyd
Location: Barbados
Join Date: Dec 2010 Motorcycle(s): '10 Ninja 250R Special Edition Green Posts: A lot.
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MOTM - Feb '12
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Quote:
A few hundred bucks later, I finally admitted that I can't wear boots that don't look like motorcycle boots and protect myself adequately. So I got over my fear of looking like a boy racer in the grocery store or on my way to work and bought real boots - the Tourmaster Solution boots. They are actually very good boots, especially for the price and for wet weather. I would recommend them, but they are too hot for the tropics and the fit isn't quite as good for me as the BiLTs. I've also had the zipper catch on the material a few times. Still good boots, but because of heat for me the BiLTs are more comfortable at a lower price.
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"Improvement makes straight roads, but the crooked roads without improvement, are roads of genius." — William Blake |
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May 26th, 2011, 09:10 PM | #14 |
newbie newbie
Name: Dominic
Location: socal
Join Date: Apr 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2006 Ninja ex250 Posts: 32
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just wanted to chime in, i bought these boots before i actually bought a bike. got them for $35 clearance since someone had returned them 8)
My only gripe is that the shin area around the top is big and bulky making it kind of difficult to get a pair of jeans around them, but when i wear my leathers i can fit them in so I guess thats the trade off. They aren't the most comfortable shoes to wear but I walked around my school campus for a day in them without too much bothering from them. For the price and protection I don't think they can be beat |
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May 27th, 2011, 04:18 AM | #15 |
User Title Free Since '12
Name: Floyd
Location: Barbados
Join Date: Dec 2010 Motorcycle(s): '10 Ninja 250R Special Edition Green Posts: A lot.
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MOTM - Feb '12
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No worries, just tuck the jeans inside.
Update on my Trackstars: I've worn them every day since I got them. Still not the best walking boot out there, but not bad either. On the bike, they are extremely comfortable, and I feel offer pretty good protection for normal riding. They are holding up very well so far, and still look new. One thing I've noticed that is worth mention - the airflow on them works well, and my feet don't sweat in them, but there is a side effect. Airflow means they catch air. At higher speeds, and I only notice this in heavy cornering, the air pulls at your foot. More so than with my non-ventilated boots, you can really feel the drag. I have some trouble keeping my toe in tight to the bike in these on a hard, fast corner as the drag tugs my foot away from the bike. Happens a bit with any boot, but maybe a bit more with the wind catching ventilation. Mind you, I wouldn't change this for a moment - I need the airflow in the hot weather here, and I LOVE the comfort of the boot on the bike - but it is something you should know.
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"Improvement makes straight roads, but the crooked roads without improvement, are roads of genius." — William Blake |
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May 27th, 2011, 08:14 AM | #16 |
Perpetual Newb
Name: Jason
Location: Imperial, MO
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Hmmmph... I'm going to have to see if I have the same problem with my boots at higher speeds. I'm focusing on other things so I don't really think about it, which I guess may be an indicator that it's not an issue for me as I'd assume I would notice such an issue.
As for the comfort, for some strange reason on my left foot part of the circular-ish ankle protector on the outside-face of the boot rubs on my ankle and tends to irritate me after awhile. I think I may look into some gel inserts or something to increase the comfort of walking around in them, problem is that, with other shoes I've used inserts on, they always pull out too easily when I take my foot out of the shoe so I'd imagine I'll have the same problem with these. Still love'em for the price though. |
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May 28th, 2011, 07:05 PM | #17 |
There's a limit to s2pdty
Name: A.D.
Location: NoVa the burg
Join Date: Apr 2011 Motorcycle(s): 250r ninja (sold) Posts: A lot.
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Any link, so i can get one for myself (:?
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May 28th, 2011, 07:44 PM | #18 |
Perpetual Newb
Name: Jason
Location: Imperial, MO
Join Date: Mar 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2010 MIB Ninja 250R [sold]; 2006 CBR600RR [sold]; 2013 Triumph Street Triple R Posts: 782
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Here you go: BILT Trackstar Boots
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May 28th, 2011, 11:43 PM | #19 |
RIP Alex
Name: Cuong
Location: Houston, TX
Join Date: Apr 2011 Motorcycle(s): '10 250r, '09 265r Posts: A lot.
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Add to the review: I have a pair of these boots for everyday riding. Bought the pair at Cycle Gear. My only complaints is that the right toe slider seems to push up into my toes which causes some slight discomfort. Also there isnt much of cushioning for my heels so I can't be on my feet a lot. Boots do breathe rather well especially in this Texas heat. Strangely these boots fit me well than the Sidi Cobras.
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May 28th, 2011, 11:46 PM | #20 |
ninjette.org sage
Name: Dre
Location: DMV
Join Date: Aug 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2014 Ninja 300, 2008 ZX6, 2011 Ninja 1000 Posts: 622
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Get some $10 insoles and stick them in. The boots will feel much better. Once I did that, I had no complaints about their comfort.
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May 29th, 2011, 06:54 AM | #21 | |
There's a limit to s2pdty
Name: A.D.
Location: NoVa the burg
Join Date: Apr 2011 Motorcycle(s): 250r ninja (sold) Posts: A lot.
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Quote:
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May 29th, 2011, 08:54 PM | #22 |
newbie newbie
Name: Dominic
Location: socal
Join Date: Apr 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2006 Ninja ex250 Posts: 32
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if you have a store near you i would go in and see if they have any on clearance or any other boots for that matter. my local store has tons of stuff on clearance that i am always looking at
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May 29th, 2011, 09:43 PM | #23 |
There's a limit to s2pdty
Name: A.D.
Location: NoVa the burg
Join Date: Apr 2011 Motorcycle(s): 250r ninja (sold) Posts: A lot.
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The nearest store is gonna be 4 - 5 hours away from me /:
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June 5th, 2011, 10:41 AM | #24 |
RIP Alex
Name: Cuong
Location: Houston, TX
Join Date: Apr 2011 Motorcycle(s): '10 250r, '09 265r Posts: A lot.
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The insoles in the boots are jokes! I finally got around to pulling them out. They're like paper thin! Consider getting replacement insoles for these boots if you find your feet hurting.
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June 5th, 2011, 11:02 AM | #25 |
Opinionated individual :)
Name: SecretNinjaMan
Location: Nor Cal
Join Date: May 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2010 Ninjette Special Edition (red/black) Posts: 342
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I took advice from kkim and others and bought these boots.
Im about a 10.5 but went with 11's because the 10's woulda smashed my toes and i hate that. Their a tad loose in the heel but a gel insole would solidify that. I also feel it lets the boot move properly for shifting and braking functions without putting any harsh pressures on your foot. I wore the boots for 2 days straight, only thing I can say is just get over ankle socks. I had under ankle socks and the zipper rubbed against my ankle. The pinch from toe shield isnt very noticeable to me, i feel it but no pain etc.
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June 10th, 2011, 09:03 PM | #26 |
ninjette.org member
Name: Jacob
Location: Michigan
Join Date: Mar 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2000 Ninja 250 Posts: 227
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Too bad these are $99 online now, or else I'd pick them up tonight.
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October 16th, 2011, 01:21 PM | #27 |
Avid Kitteh Poster
Name: Justin
Location: Norcal
Join Date: Sep 2011 Motorcycle(s): 2006 Yamaha TTR 50 SUCK IT Posts: A lot.
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Ok these are on my list. I think Ill be getting these in the next few weeks for my birthday
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July 19th, 2015, 10:50 AM | #28 |
RIP Alex
Name: Cuong
Location: Houston, TX
Join Date: Apr 2011 Motorcycle(s): '10 250r, '09 265r Posts: A lot.
Blog Entries: 2
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4-5 years later, the threading for coil zipper seam came undone. That's rain, ice, Texas heat and humidity along with track day get-offs. The threading came off where the zipper goes over my ankle bone since that's where it gets tight there. I have replaced the insoles with Dr. Scholls Working big and tall soles and I can walk anywhere with these.
I had to switch over to the Sidi Fusions I had (previously thought they were the Cobras) and man, the toe box is narrow! I get discomfort with it pushing against my pinky toes. Soles are worn from me dragging them on the road, Toe slider wear/missing were due breaking bad habits early in my riding at the track. Although, BiLt advertises the toe sliders replaceable, you can't get any. The newer version of these (BiLt Speed Racer boots) utilizers toe sliders like those on the Sidi Boots. If you're having to replace these, you're dragging toe and need to work on your foot positioning or you have some serious mad lean and ground clearance.
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