TOUR test centreRain jacket, reflective adhesive and a multitool

Matthias Borchers

 · 21.10.2023

Multitool Essential 8
Photo: Matthias Borchers

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In the TOUR test centre, we take a close look at everything that manufacturers bring onto the market for racing cyclists throughout the year. For autumn, we tested a rain jacket, reflective stickers and a multi-tool.

First work: rain jacket from GripGrab

Until now, the GripGrab brand has been known for weather protection for the head, hands and feet. Now, for the season finale, functional jackets, waistcoats and trousers for the body parts in between are available for the first time. We have already had the opportunity to try out the Danes' first rain jacket, the Rainmaster Jacket, in the lab and in practice.

First conclusion: The 180 gram jacket (size L) passed the Suter and spray test well; its tapes remain absolutely waterproof for two minutes at a water column of 3000 millimetres and drops roll off its outer skin almost completely. That's good. Its cut is normal to comfortable, we liked the back length, which effectively protects the bum from splashing water, as well as the long sleeves with asymmetrical cuffs that cover the wrists and protect against draughts, and the high collar that keeps rain and wind away from the neck. The zip also earns praise, although it runs a little sluggishly, but is effectively sealed. All-round reflective material is a good contribution to passive safety, but it is regrettable that the Danes are only offering the first series of the new rain jacket in black.

GribGrap Rainmaster JacketPhoto: Matthias BorchersGribGrap Rainmaster Jacket

PLUSCut and fit, rain protection

MINUSonly available in black

Reflective stickers: Stickers from Riesel-Design

Reflective adhesive

If you want to make your bike more visible in the darker months of the year, the reflective re:flex city silver stickers from Riesel-Design might be an option for you. A set costs €12.95 and contains a total of 31 small stickers in rather simple geometric shapes, which are suitable for areas such as the fork blades, seat tube or headset, depending on their size. The sheet-thin stickers adhere best to cylindrical and flat areas after careful cleaning. Illuminated by bike or car headlights, the reflective effect for greater visibility is impressive. For those who like it a little more playful or want to spice up their children's bikes, Riesel-Design has the "rascal" series in various colours with a total of eight stickers each in its range.

Reflective stickers re:flex city silver from Riesel-DesignPhoto: Matthias BorchersReflective stickers re:flex city silver from Riesel-Design
  • Price: 12,95 Euro

PLUSImproves visibility in road traffic

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With gaps: Multitool from Daysafer

Daysaver advertises the "Essential 8" as a bicycle mini-tool for any eventuality that may occur on the road. For such a compact tool weighing just 33 grams, this is a big promise - but one that the Swiss manufacturer cannot fulfil. Typical and almost always necessary tools such as a slotted and a Phillips bit are not on board, and if you need a tyre lever or chain rivet, you have to add the "Coworking 5" for 33 euros to the "Essential 8". We really liked the workmanship and precision of the stainless steel handle and the integrated bits (Inhex 2 to 8 mm, Torx 25), which can be combined in an instant with a little skill. Care is required when screwing at the side of the road, as the small bit inserts are easily lost.

Essential 8 multitool from DaysaferPhoto: Matthias BorchersEssential 8 multitool from Daysafer
  • Price: Essential 8, 45 euros | Coworking supplement 5, 33 euros

PLUSProcessing, size

MINUSno screwdriver bits

Matthias Borchers is an expert for clothing and accessories in the test department of TOUR. As an amateur cyclist, he has completed the TOUR-Transalp and the TOUR-Trans Austria. His reportage trips from San Francisco to Sakai and 17 trips to the Tour de France with around 30,000 motorhome kilometres are also formative.

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