In the TOUR test centre: Helmet, cycling shoes, saddle, glasses & tyres

We regularly put a wide range of products under the microscope in our test centre. This time the focus is on exclusive shoes from Q36.5, an innovative helmet from Fizik, a comfortable saddle from Specialized, versatile goggles from 100% and an optimised tyre from Challenge.

Shoes from Q36.5 - Elite shoes

With the Unique Pro, Q36.5 is launching a sophisticated road cycling shoe that is aimed at an exclusive audience - not least because of its proud price of 550 euros. In return, you get a real lightweight: in size 43, the pair weighs just 460 grams. The shoe has a high-quality finish, the design is elegant - and special at the same time. The thin carbon sole is raised around the entire shoe, especially towards the heel, which is somewhat reminiscent of a tub. The very stiff sole also guarantees effective power transmission; however, it cannot give way during longer rides and in the heat when the feet expand. Accordingly, the feet should fit the last perfectly so that nothing pinches. On the other hand, those who fit the last anatomically well will benefit from perfect support and a non-slip heel area. The Boa fasteners can be precisely adjusted in both directions and are easy to operate even when wearing gloves. The best way to get into the integrated sock construction is with a shoehorn - it quickly becomes fiddly with your fingers.

• Price: 550 Euro >> available here
• Weight: 460 grams (size 43, without plates)
• Colours: White, black

Advantages and disadvantages

• Plus: weight, power transmission, workmanship, size adjustment
• Minus: stiff toe box

>> TOUR Test Centre: 5 essentials for road cyclists

>> TOUR test centre: Fitness wristband, cycling glasses, handlebar tape, mini compressor & mini bell

Helmet from Fizik - customisation made easy

Fizik's new helmet is called Kudo, which comes from the Greek and means "glory" or "honour" and can be a form of praise. The helmet can be praised for its good all-round fit and the adjustment options. Depending on the setting, a plait can be threaded through the back; the position of the chin strap can also be changed, it can be positioned further forwards or backwards. Our tester found it irritating that the front area of the comparatively generously cut helmet often protrudes into the field of vision; at the same time, the Kudo, which weighs just under 300 grams, sits comfortably. The optional flashing or permanently illuminated rear light (15 grams) is a safety plus. The helmet with integrated Mips system is available in the colours bronze, anthracite, white and black.

• Price: 290 Euro >> available here
• Weight: 290 grammes

Advantages and disadvantages

• Plus: integrated rear light, variable chin strap
• Minus: relatively heavy

Saddle from Specialized - Seating

The Specialized Power Comp is a versatile saddle for road and gravel bikes. In our test, it impressed with good damping thanks to generous padding, noticeable both in a sporty bent and upright riding position. The wide cut-out with soft transition enables effective pressure relief, regardless of anatomy - there was no numbness. The saddle cover is non-slip, even in wet conditions. At 253 grams in the 155 millimetre version tested, the Power Comp is not a lightweight, but it is robust and durable. It is also available in 143 and 168 millimetre widths. The stainless steel frame allows a generous adjustment range of around eight centimetres. According to the manufacturer, the saddle is designed for all genders. If you are looking for comfort and stability and can live with a little more weight, the Power Comp is a saddle for road and gravel.

• Price: 99 Euro >> available here
• Weight: 253 grams (155 mm)

Advantages and disadvantages

• Plus: cushioning, pressure relief, three widths
• Minus: Weight

Glasses from 100% - Visual aid

The RX Insert from 100% makes several models from the California-based manufacturer suitable for everyday wear. The clip made from transparent nylon accepts single vision lenses from +4 to -6.75 dioptres; it is available in two sizes for the S3, Speedcraft and Slendale models. We tested the insert with the S3 with photochromic lens. The single vision lenses (-2.75 dioptres) cost 50 euros each at the optician's, and 35 euros for fitting them into the frame. The elongated holes on the clip are attached to the base of the nose bridge; the attachment has so far withstood insertion and removal, for example for cleaning, although there is some play in the system. Depending on your physiognomy, the clip can touch your eyebrows; and of course it restricts the actually huge field of vision of the glasses somewhat, but on the bike this is not a problem. At 51 grams including the clip, the S3 is no longer as light as a feather, which is noticeable when looking down - the glasses lift slightly off the nose. Even when fully darkened, the self-tinting lens remains relatively transparent and the clip is visible, which may bother some people. However, our tester reportedly prefers glasses with inserts to contact lenses.

• Price: 45 Euro (without glasses) >> available here
• Weight: 16 grams (including jars)

Advantages and disadvantages

• Plus: favourable price, flexible use
• Minus: Space requirement

Tyres from Challenge - One weak point less

Challenge has the Strada Pro TLR revised. Until now, fitting tubeless tyres on modern rims has often been a feat of strength - especially on the Strada. Now it's noticeably easier: in the test, the 30-millimetre version could be mounted on Newmen Advanced 50 rims even with a tube without a tyre lever if the rubber was pressed correctly into the rim. It also worked on Zipp 303S tyres. However, the stiff tread only rounds out after the tyre has been inflated. Visually, the tyre stands out with its light-coloured sidewall (it is also available in black and in widths of 25 and 27 millimetres). Technically, there is still room for improvement: Grip and wet grip are not at the top level, but this is only evident at the limit. In terms of puncture resistance, the tyre performed poorly - a copper wire drilled right through the tread during our test ride; fortunately without damaging the inner tube. Once removed, the tyre could be ridden again without any problems. Overall, the tyre is now easier to fit, but there is still room for improvement in terms of performance.

• Price: 78 Euro >> available here
• Weight: 305 grammes

Advantages and disadvantages

• Plus: easy to install
• Minus: rolling resistance, wet grip, puncture protection