Matthias Borchers
· 31.12.2022
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Helmet caps are designed to protect the head from the cold, which requires them to fit barely noticeably under the helmet. In TOUR 1-2022, we tested twelve models of different designs ranging from 20 to 75 euros, with the winner being the Zero Cycling Cap from Velocio.
Our test conclusion: Nice and warm, windproof front, covers a large area of the head, fluffy fabric feel, no pressure points, hardly any wind noise, all-round fit, relatively expensive
Gloves for the transitional period must protect against wind and rain showers. Models that can also be used to operate the display of a GPS computer or smartphone are practical. A dozen gloves took part in the TOUR test, with the winning pair being the WS Essential 2 Glove from the Italian brand Sportful.
Our test conclusion: Clings firmly to the hand; direct feel on the handlebars, good grip; touch function only on the right index finger; pleasantly long cuff, durable waterproofing, very well made; also available as a version for women.
Retro-look cycling jerseys have many fans. Some designs copy classic professional jerseys, others combine modern functional materials with stylistic elements from the history of cycling. Here we show a selection of ten current models for "bella figura" on and off the road bike.
Crumple zone plus rotation protection - current cycle helmets incorporate advanced protection technology. But who offers the best mix of prevention and comfort? The TOUR crash test included 13 models between 80 and 145 euros with the Mips head protection system and the Scott model beat the competition.
Our test conclusion: The Arx Plus from Scott is the absolute test winner in this competition. It scored top marks for ventilation and fit without any weaknesses. It also scored second best in the crash test. Its size is normal and its fit can be described as all-round. A total of eight colours are available.
Seat pads that are too spongy, straps that are too loose, leg cuffs that are too tight - not every pair of cycling shorts is suitable for long distances. Only with the perfectly fitting bib shorts can you enjoy intensive hours in the saddle without pain. The TOUR test included 18 selected models for men and women and Assos came out on top.
Our test conclusion: The Assos Dyora RS Summer Bib Short only sits perfectly in the saddle, the robust material fits tightly. The wide, taut straps run along the sides of the chest and hold the trousers perfectly in place, but can pinch at the shoulders. The leg cuffs and raised waistband are comfortable on long rides. The padding fits well.
Our test conclusion: The Assos Mille GTO Bib Shorts C2 offers a compromise between comfort and compression, the cuffs with silicone dots are seam-free, the straps that cross at the back hold the padding in place perfectly, although it feels slightly nappy when standing. Very well made; by far the most expensive trousers in the test.
Weighing barely 100 grams and packed the size of a fist, the windbreaker is waiting in the jersey pocket to make a big impact. Eleven models (each in men's and women's versions) between 60 and 200 euros had to prove in the TOUR test whether they would be effective. We were most impressed by the Aria Shell Jacket wind jacket from Italian manufacturer Castelli for men and women.
Our test conclusion: The Italian tailoring is visibly tight, the material fits snugly all round, nothing flutters; a cut for slim men and women. Points were awarded for weather protection, vapour permeability and features. The tester found the material less skin-friendly than our testers.
Cycling jerseys made from merino wool are in vogue - also as light and airy summer shirts. We tested seven models, each for men and women, ranging in price from 120 to 180 euros. The women's jersey from Café du Cycliste and the two men's models from De Marchi and Velocio received the best marks.
Our test conclusion: The cut is normal, the material is significantly firmer than that of the competition and correspondingly warmer. The side pockets on the men's model have an opening that is too narrow for large hands, but our female testers were more comfortable with this. The workmanship is high quality and the equipment is complete.
Our test conclusion: Thanks to their subtle shiny effect, the De Marchi jerseys look very elegant. Their cut tends to be comfortable, slightly longer and they are a little heavier than average - but still airy. The zip is easy to use, the pockets are easily accessible, but not very deep.
Our test conclusion: The expensive jerseys from Velocio have a racing cut and are short, which is why one size larger is an option. The pockets are easy to reach and fill, the zip is fully lined and the lack of a collar is a matter of taste. Despite the high wool content, the fabric feels rather firm.
Front and rear lights for bicycles are becoming increasingly powerful thanks to LED technology and sophisticated electronics. The TOUR test included five sets with headlights around 100 lux plus two high-end lights - all approved in accordance with the German Road Traffic Licensing Regulations (StVZO). Sigma's Aura set offers the best value for money, while Lupine's headlights and rear lights offer the best technology.
Our test conclusion: Headlight and rear light with informative and precise indicators; combination circuit for both lights, with brake light; good light reserve, mounting rubber very short even for handlebars with 30 mm diameter
Our test conclusion: Best light profile for high beam; charge level indicator on the battery must be activated by pressing, convenient, wireless remote control; robust rear light with long burn time
Don't fancy fiddling around with toe caps, thick socks or overshoes? Then a proper winter shoe could be the perfect partner for winter rides. A total of seven models were put to the test, from which the Northwave Celsius XC Arctic GTX emerged as the winner.
Our test conclusion: Test winner. Runs large overall, try a size smaller; a shoehorn helps when putting on and taking off, the twist fastener requires some practice and cannot always be gripped securely with gloves. Very good weather protection
Cold hands on the handlebars? Nobody likes that. Warm and waterproof winter gloves can help against this. We tested eight models from 30 to 110 euros in practice and the Rosegg model from Roeckl Sports won the test.
Our test conclusion: Very good warming, yet comparatively light glove, somewhat tight in the crook of the thumb; the wrists are only slightly covered; very good weather protection, good grip, good accuracy of the touch function

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