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Trousers and jersey from X-Bionic
Knitted trousers and jerseys were once X-Bionic's unique selling point. The idea behind this was a textile structure that would not transport sweat away from the skin as quickly as possible, but would instead keep it in the knitted channels and have a cooling effect; this was intended to keep the exercising body as constant as possible at 37 degrees. The new Aero Jersey and Cycling Bib Shorts now only have knitted elements in the back area along the spine, while the rest of the material is of a conventional design. Both items are extremely comfortable to wear, with cuffs on the arms and legs that fit snugly and keep the jersey and shorts in shape, as do the monoelastic bibs. At 115 grams, the jersey is in the middle of the weight range and the pleasantly fine structure of the fabric makes it appear very light. The three jersey pockets fit snugly, but there is no additional zip pocket.
- Price: 249 Euro (trousers) >> available here, 189 Euro (jersey)
- Sizes: S to XXL
- Colours: Four colour variants for the jersey
Advantages and disadvantages
- Plus: wearing comfort, workmanship
Saddle bag from Granite
The Quiver Tool Roll from Granite is a practical, foldable and rollable tool bag that can be fastened under any saddle frame using the twist lock (Atop) and pull cord. When opened, the bag measures around 20 x 30 centimetres, weighs 66 grams when empty and has three pockets, one of which has a zip for money, debit card or house keys. The material is robust and protects the contents from splashing water, but moisture can penetrate during longer rides in the rain. We really liked how easy it is to fit with the fastening strap and twist lock.
- Price: 47 Euro >> available here at a reduced price
Advantages and disadvantages
- Plus: Handling
- Minus: Not waterproof
Helmet from Specialised
A striking feature of the new Search from Specialized is its large air intakes, which are designed to allow sufficient fresh air to reach the head even at low to medium speeds. The helmet costs 150 euros, weighs 300 grams (size M) and has the Mips safety system on board. The helmet is well made and fits many head shapes. The head width adjustment is height-adjustable and there is space for a pigtail at the back. The adjustment wheel is so small that you have to fumble around a bit with long-fingered gloves. Typically for Specialized, the front strap is positioned very far forward, which means that the adjustable harness is wide open around the ears, but runs relatively close to the earlobe. The helmet is available in three sizes and five colours.
- Price: 150 Euro
- Sizes: S, M, L
Advantages and disadvantages
- Plus: workmanship, air conditioning
- Minus: small adjustment wheel
Gravel shoes from Specialized
From the rider's perspective, the Recon 3.0 from Specialized looks like a slim road cycling shoe. Only a glance from the side reveals its intended use, recognisable by the robust front edge protection, which effectively wards off stone chips, and the soles, each with 14 grippy studs, which provide good grip and stability even on rough terrain. It has a good all-round fit, even slightly wider feet will find room; only if they swell slightly on very long tours or in very hot weather could they feel a little cramped. The heel is very well supported and does not slip inside the shoe. The Boa fasteners are great, allowing the robust shoes (in size 43), which weigh just under 700 grams, to be laced sensitively and comfortably. The smooth upper material absorbs little dirt and is easy to clean.
- Price: 250 Euro >> at Bike components available
- Sizes: 41 to 46
Advantages and disadvantages
- Plus: all-round fit, heel hold, well adaptable, walking characteristics
Wahoo chest strap
The highlight of the new Trackr chest strap from Wahoo is its power supply. It is no longer powered by a button cell as before, but by an integrated rechargeable battery that can be charged using a USB cable. According to the manufacturer, one charge should last for up to one hundred hours of operation. We did not exhaust this time span, but an LED indicator provides reliable information about the battery status in four stages; if the light flashes orange, for example, the battery still has 25 per cent capacity. Pairing via Bluetooth with fitness apps on the smartphone or Waho and Garmin computers works quickly and easily, and wireless connection with ANT+ is also possible. The chest strap is comfortable to wear, but is too tight from a chest circumference of 100 centimetres. You can swim with the strap for 30 minutes in water up to one metre deep (IPX7).
- Price: 90 Euro
Advantages and disadvantages
- Plus: Battery life, compatibility
- Minus: Belt a little short
