Bicycle accessories put to the test: From clothing to invisible stands

Autumn suit from Vandeyk - Autumn trousers

Vandeyk Racing from Munich presents the new Woven Bib Shorts 1.1 VIZ. We tested the cycling shorts in combination with a long-sleeved jersey and windproof jacket from the Vandeyk range as an autumn combo for fresh and windy days on the bike. The new version of the cycling shorts is equipped with reflective elements. This improves visibility on the bike at dusk or in the dark. Compared to the previous model of the shorts, the straps are slightly thinner and fit better; the thin but comfortable seat pad from SQlab has remained the same. The Aero Shell Jacket stands out above all for its short sleeves, which end above the elbows; the jacket is designed for cool, windy and slightly rainy weather and can be combined with a short or long-sleeved jersey. The wind protection is good, mesh material in the back allows perspiration vapour to escape quickly. The skin-friendly fabrics are very comfortable to wear and have a fine finish; it should be noted that Vandeyk's cycling clothing has a sporty, short cut - it can be an advantage to choose one size larger. The clothing is manufactured in Portugal.

• Price: Bib shorts 250 euros, aero shell jacket 240 euros, long-sleeved jersey 180 euros
• Sizes: S-XXL (trousers also in XS)
• Colours: Black, dark blue

Advantages and disadvantages

• Plus: finely processed fabric, high wearing comfort

Multisport watch from Suunto - On all paths

Multi-sport watches with map display and navigation are a practical companion for anyone who practises several sports. On a racing bike, they are inferior to modern bike computers, but they score points for their versatility. Suunto has launched its new model Suunto Race 2, which supports 115 sports with its own modes. The previous model already impressed with its brilliant display and long battery life. The new version offers small improvements in several areas. The wrist-based heart rate measurement is even more accurate, the processor has been updated, the display has been slightly enlarged and the weight has been reduced. The battery life is outstanding, you can record training sessions for many days at a time. The maps are not pre-installed, but can be downloaded free of charge by region. You have to connect the watch to a WLAN via the app - the download takes a relatively long time. Otherwise, the set-up is very simple and the menu navigation is well organised. Pairing with Strava, Komoot and other apps is also straightforward. The only downer: the price. The new Race 2 has become more expensive than its predecessor and is therefore definitely no longer a bargain. In addition to the standard model, there is also an (even more expensive) titanium version.

• Price: from 499 Euro >> available here
• Weight: 76 grams (stainless steel)

Advantages and disadvantages

• Plus: super display, easy operation, many functions
• Minus: more expensive than the previous model

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Jacket from Castelli - Versatile

The name - Perfetto RoS 3 W Jacket - you might forget about it quickly, but in terms of functionality, the sportswear makes a lasting impression. The textile, which sits between a jersey and a jacket, is perfectly cut for the riding position on a racing bike. As is typical for Castelli, it is rather small, but sits comfortably on the body thanks to the thin, lightweight material. Windproof and water-repellent, it is ideal for autumn days. The manufacturer recommends it for temperatures between 4 and 14 degrees; our tester wore a sleeveless vest underneath at ten degrees Celsius and shivered on her arms, but this can be easily remedied with a long-sleeved base layer. The three large, tight back pockets offer enough space for a bar, mobile phone etc. The material is functional and the top has a high-quality finish. The extended back under the pockets provides additional protection against splashing water from the rear wheel.

• Price: 250 Euro >> available here
• Sizes: XS-XL
• Colours: Red, black, turquoise, yellow

Advantages and disadvantages

• Plus: fit, back pockets, flexible use

Gravel shoe from Shimano - Stable

Shimano's new Gravel shoe S-Phyre RX910 is clearly aimed at racers and introduces a new SPD-compatible development with the Pontoon Cleat System. The lateral TPU cleat rows are connected via a metal bar and move with the cleat alignment, which should improve the support and contact surface. The shoe sits very tightly on the pedal, which makes it difficult to get on, but results in excellent traction. The wide contact surface is reminiscent of road bike pedals and prevents lateral tilting, but makes it more difficult to unclip. With older Shimano pedals, clipping in and out proves to be even more awkward. Older SPD pedals such as PD-M8000 are not compatible, Shimano recommends XTR PD-M9200 or XT PD-M8100. The fit is excellent, even for narrow feet, and the carbon sole impresses with its stiffness and low height. Running comfort suffers somewhat from the hard, less cushioning cleat material, which is also slippery. On the other hand, the supple upper material scores highly in terms of comfort and the ventilation provided by two cut-outs in the sole is noticeable. All in all, a high-performance shoe with a clear racing focus and a slight loss of comfort when walking.

• Price: 390 Euro >> available here
• Sizes: 38-48; 41,5-46,5
• Weight: 580 grams (size 43)

Advantages and disadvantages

• Plus: more support, comfort, power transmission
• Minus: Comparatively difficult to get on and off, especially with older pedal models very awkward

Bike stand from Shadowstand - Valuable support

Ingenious idea for taking photos of bikes in the wild - without signposts, trees, helping hands or subsequent retouching of the image. Even the TOUR photo editor is enthusiastic and no longer sets out on photo shoots without this simple little helper. Shadowstand consists of a trapezoidal piece of Plexiglas that is clamped under the bottom bracket or pedal axle. The corrugated, wide side stands firmly on the ground, the narrow side is notched round and supports the racer. This keeps the bike securely in place without any visible aids - an invention that is as simple as it is practical.

• Price: from 19 Euro

Advantages and disadvantages

• Plus: clever idea