11spd: This week’s best new bike gear 25/15/15

<source media="(max-width: 320px)" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450876632568-1r657acjz5y4f-3cd973f.jpg?quality=90&resize=160%2C208, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450876632568-1r657acjz5y4f-3cd973f.jpg?quality=90&resize=320%2C416 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450876632568-1r657acjz5y4f-3cd973f.jpg?quality=90&resize=480%2C624 3x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450876632568-1r657acjz5y4f-3cd973f.jpg?quality=90&resize=640%2C832 4x" type="image/jpeg"> <source media="(max-width: 375px)" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450876632568-1r657acjz5y4f-3cd973f.jpg?quality=90&resize=190%2C247, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450876632568-1r657acjz5y4f-3cd973f.jpg?quality=90&resize=380%2C494 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450876632568-1r657acjz5y4f-3cd973f.jpg?quality=90&resize=570%2C741 3x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450876632568-1r657acjz5y4f-3cd973f.jpg?quality=90&resize=692%2C900 4x" type="image/jpeg"> <source media="(max-width: 425px)" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450876632568-1r657acjz5y4f-3cd973f.jpg?quality=90&resize=215%2C279, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450876632568-1r657acjz5y4f-3cd973f.jpg?quality=90&resize=430%2C559 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450876632568-1r657acjz5y4f-3cd973f.jpg?quality=90&resize=645%2C838 3x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450876632568-1r657acjz5y4f-3cd973f.jpg?quality=90&resize=692%2C900 4x" type="image/jpeg"> <source media="(max-width: 768px)" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450876632568-1r657acjz5y4f-3cd973f.jpg?quality=90&resize=295%2C383, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450876632568-1r657acjz5y4f-3cd973f.jpg?quality=90&resize=590%2C767 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450876632568-1r657acjz5y4f-3cd973f.jpg?quality=90&resize=693%2C900 3x" type="image/jpeg"> <source media="(max-width: 992px)" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450876632568-1r657acjz5y4f-3cd973f.jpg?quality=90&resize=136%2C176, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450876632568-1r657acjz5y4f-3cd973f.jpg?quality=90&resize=272%2C353 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450876632568-1r657acjz5y4f-3cd973f.jpg?quality=90&resize=408%2C530 3x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450876632568-1r657acjz5y4f-3cd973f.jpg?quality=90&resize=544%2C707 4x" type="image/jpeg"> <source media="(min-width: 993px)" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450876632568-1r657acjz5y4f-3cd973f.jpg?quality=90&resize=155%2C201, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450876632568-1r657acjz5y4f-3cd973f.jpg?quality=90&resize=310%2C403 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450876632568-1r657acjz5y4f-3cd973f.jpg?quality=90&resize=465%2C604 3x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450876632568-1r657acjz5y4f-3cd973f.jpg?quality=90&resize=620%2C806 4x" type="image/jpeg"> <img class="wp-image-280975 size-portrait_thumbnail image-handler__image image-handler__image--aspect no-wrap js-gallery-grid-src-image" src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450876632568-1r657acjz5y4f-3cd973f.jpg?quality=90&resize=295%2C383" width="295" height="383" data-crop-width="" data-crop-height="" alt="We're gearing up for winter in our Colorado offices" title="1450876632568-1r657acjz5y4f-3cd973f" style="width: auto; height: 100%;"> We’re gearing up for winter in our Colorado offices Josh Patterson / Immediate Media

Ho, ho, ho – and Merry Christmas! We hope you and your family have had a great year. It’s our holiday hope to bring you continued tidings of great riding… and shiny new riding gear. To that end, here are 11 pieces of hot riding kit that have landed in our snowbound Colorado offices.

Happy holidays!

New road bike gear SRM PowerControl 8 <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011210-fw0495t128tv-1000-90-c45a291.jpg?quality=90&lb=1000,562&background=white" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011210-fw0495t128tv-1000-90-c45a291.jpg?quality=90&lb=940,528&background=white 940w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011210-fw0495t128tv-1000-90-c45a291.jpg?quality=90&lb=728,409&background=white 728w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011210-fw0495t128tv-1000-90-c45a291.jpg?quality=90&lb=556,312&background=white 556w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011210-fw0495t128tv-1000-90-c45a291.jpg?quality=90&lb=355,199&background=white 355w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011210-fw0495t128tv-1000-90-c45a291.jpg?quality=90&lb=340,191&background=white 340w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011210-fw0495t128tv-1000-90-c45a291.jpg?quality=90&lb=320,179&background=white 320w, " sizes="(min-width: 992px) 940px, (min-width: 768px) 728px, (min-width: 576px) 556px, calc(100vw - 20px)" width="1000" height="562" class="wp-image-280842 alignnone size-full img-container__image" alt="1450743011210-fw0495t128tv-1000-90-c45a291" title="1450743011210-fw0495t128tv-1000-90-c45a291"> SRM’s powercontrol 8 head unit: srm’s powercontrol 8 head unit SRM is the grandaddy of power meters, but the company’s head units had fallen behind the times with Garmin taking a commanding lead. The PC8 incorporates some modern features – such as GPS, WiFi, Bluetooth, ANT+, as well as TrainingPeaks metrics like TSS< NP and IF – but retains the company’s serious take on training with power.

Battery life on the alloy-shelled unit is good – especially if you turn off the GPS and extend it up to a claimed 45 hours. Memory capacity is also great, with a claimed 4,000 hours of training logged.

However, the appeal of the product is highly limited, as the GPS serves primarily as a retrospective tracking feature by recording your trail. There are no maps, much less turn-by-turn options like you can find on many Garmin units.

$700

www.srm.de

BSX Insight <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011192-267b1gjo1mf9-1000-90-b4a843f.jpg?quality=90&lb=1000,562&background=white" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011192-267b1gjo1mf9-1000-90-b4a843f.jpg?quality=90&lb=940,528&background=white 940w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011192-267b1gjo1mf9-1000-90-b4a843f.jpg?quality=90&lb=728,409&background=white 728w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011192-267b1gjo1mf9-1000-90-b4a843f.jpg?quality=90&lb=556,312&background=white 556w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011192-267b1gjo1mf9-1000-90-b4a843f.jpg?quality=90&lb=355,199&background=white 355w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011192-267b1gjo1mf9-1000-90-b4a843f.jpg?quality=90&lb=340,191&background=white 340w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011192-267b1gjo1mf9-1000-90-b4a843f.jpg?quality=90&lb=320,179&background=white 320w, " sizes="(min-width: 992px) 940px, (min-width: 768px) 728px, (min-width: 576px) 556px, calc(100vw - 20px)" width="1000" height="562" class="wp-image-280845 alignnone size-full img-container__image" alt="1450743011192-267b1gjo1mf9-1000-90-b4a843f" title="1450743011192-267b1gjo1mf9-1000-90-b4a843f"> The bsx insight app pairs with the calf-positioned device plus a power meter and a heart rate monitor: the bsx insight app pairs with the calf-positioned device plus a power meter and a heart rate monitor This tiny unit looks into your calf muscle with LED lights to gauge muscle oxygenation. Based on the readings of light reflection, the BSX Insight gives you a SMO2 number on a smartphone app or a paired ANT+ head unit.

The BSX Insight can also give you a lactate threshold test, when used in conjunction with a power meter and a trainer.

So, what the heck do you do with SMO2 data? The short answer is, BSX Insight and high-level teams around the world are still looking into it. In our initial testing, we’ve found the readings to vary substantially day to day, with average SMO2 being between 55 and 85%.

$369

www.bsxinsight.com/cycling

Specialized Air Tool Pro <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011228-1tyoq6xutj0pe-1000-90-8ac42be.jpg?quality=90&lb=1000,562&background=white" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011228-1tyoq6xutj0pe-1000-90-8ac42be.jpg?quality=90&lb=940,528&background=white 940w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011228-1tyoq6xutj0pe-1000-90-8ac42be.jpg?quality=90&lb=728,409&background=white 728w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011228-1tyoq6xutj0pe-1000-90-8ac42be.jpg?quality=90&lb=556,312&background=white 556w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011228-1tyoq6xutj0pe-1000-90-8ac42be.jpg?quality=90&lb=355,199&background=white 355w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011228-1tyoq6xutj0pe-1000-90-8ac42be.jpg?quality=90&lb=340,191&background=white 340w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011228-1tyoq6xutj0pe-1000-90-8ac42be.jpg?quality=90&lb=320,179&background=white 320w, " sizes="(min-width: 992px) 940px, (min-width: 768px) 728px, (min-width: 576px) 556px, calc(100vw - 20px)" width="1000" height="562" class="wp-image-280849 alignnone size-full img-container__image" alt="1450743011228-1tyoq6xutj0pe-1000-90-8ac42be" title="1450743011228-1tyoq6xutj0pe-1000-90-8ac42be"> Specialized’s air tool pro pump features a pressure-relief valve, sturdy construction and easy-to-read dial: specialized’s air tool pro pump features a pressure-relief valve, sturdy construction and easy-to-read dial This isn’t a new product but a second chance. We loved our Air Tool Pro pump for well over a year until it gave out on us, sputtering instead of pumping. While others have had better luck with the non-rebuildable alloy pump, we are giving the sturdy tool another go.

The head switches between Schrader and Presta, and the long hose makes for easy connections. A spare rubber seal is included.

The large dial is easy to read for PSI or BAR, and the pressure-relief valve on the handle is a nice touch for fine-tuning your pressure.

$120 / £120

www.specialized.com

Tacx Neo Pro <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011200-md8s9hw7x4dm-1000-90-f23f95b.jpg?quality=90&lb=1000,562&background=white" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011200-md8s9hw7x4dm-1000-90-f23f95b.jpg?quality=90&lb=940,528&background=white 940w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011200-md8s9hw7x4dm-1000-90-f23f95b.jpg?quality=90&lb=728,409&background=white 728w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011200-md8s9hw7x4dm-1000-90-f23f95b.jpg?quality=90&lb=556,312&background=white 556w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011200-md8s9hw7x4dm-1000-90-f23f95b.jpg?quality=90&lb=355,199&background=white 355w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011200-md8s9hw7x4dm-1000-90-f23f95b.jpg?quality=90&lb=340,191&background=white 340w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011200-md8s9hw7x4dm-1000-90-f23f95b.jpg?quality=90&lb=320,179&background=white 320w, " sizes="(min-width: 992px) 940px, (min-width: 768px) 728px, (min-width: 576px) 556px, calc(100vw - 20px)" width="1000" height="562" class="wp-image-280851 alignnone size-full img-container__image" alt="1450743011200-md8s9hw7x4dm-1000-90-f23f95b" title="1450743011200-md8s9hw7x4dm-1000-90-f23f95b"> The tacx neo pro is a smart trainer that can be controlled over ant+ or bluetooth by third-party software: the tacx neo pro is a smart trainer that can be controlled over ant+ or bluetooth by third-party software The challenger to Wahoo’s Kickr, the Neo Pro smart trainer works on ANT+ and Bluetooth to interact with third-party software such as Zwift, TrainerRoad of VeloReality.

There are two main advantages to this smart trainer interactivity: hills are simulated (both up and down), and training loads can be applied exactly. Need to do two 20-minute FTP intervals at 295w with rest at 100w in between? A smart trainer will generate this resistance for you, so you just pick a gear and pedal.

The Neo Pro is substantially more expensive than the Kickr, but also somewhat quieter.

$1,599 / £1,199

www.tacx.nl

Today’s Plan <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011232-13cxxrjb8iz8c-1000-90-b4d6c0f.jpg?quality=90&lb=1000,561&background=white" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011232-13cxxrjb8iz8c-1000-90-b4d6c0f.jpg?quality=90&lb=940,527&background=white 940w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011232-13cxxrjb8iz8c-1000-90-b4d6c0f.jpg?quality=90&lb=728,408&background=white 728w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011232-13cxxrjb8iz8c-1000-90-b4d6c0f.jpg?quality=90&lb=556,311&background=white 556w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011232-13cxxrjb8iz8c-1000-90-b4d6c0f.jpg?quality=90&lb=355,199&background=white 355w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011232-13cxxrjb8iz8c-1000-90-b4d6c0f.jpg?quality=90&lb=340,190&background=white 340w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011232-13cxxrjb8iz8c-1000-90-b4d6c0f.jpg?quality=90&lb=320,179&background=white 320w, " sizes="(min-width: 992px) 940px, (min-width: 768px) 728px, (min-width: 576px) 556px, calc(100vw - 20px)" width="1000" height="561" class="wp-image-280856 alignnone size-full img-container__image" alt="1450743011232-13cxxrjb8iz8c-1000-90-b4d6c0f" title="1450743011232-13cxxrjb8iz8c-1000-90-b4d6c0f"> Today’s plan offers training plans tailored to your schedule and rich analytic tools: today’s plan offers training plans tailored to your schedule and rich analytic tools The upstart Aussie operation offers custom-tailored training plans and a platform that plays well with all the major training tools and even a few obscure metrics like SMO2.

You can use the software for its analytics, or buy a plan that is customised to fit the available time to you have to train any given day.

In addition to a raft of graphs, the software has user friendly features like parsing through all your uploaded data and identifying your functional threshold power.

From $8 / £5 / AU$10 per month

www.todaysplan.com.au

Alé PRR Thermal Winter Jacket <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011221-1lxknj8f7jckr-1000-90-62a454d.jpg?quality=90&lb=1000,562&background=white" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011221-1lxknj8f7jckr-1000-90-62a454d.jpg?quality=90&lb=940,528&background=white 940w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011221-1lxknj8f7jckr-1000-90-62a454d.jpg?quality=90&lb=728,409&background=white 728w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011221-1lxknj8f7jckr-1000-90-62a454d.jpg?quality=90&lb=556,312&background=white 556w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011221-1lxknj8f7jckr-1000-90-62a454d.jpg?quality=90&lb=355,199&background=white 355w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011221-1lxknj8f7jckr-1000-90-62a454d.jpg?quality=90&lb=340,191&background=white 340w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450743011221-1lxknj8f7jckr-1000-90-62a454d.jpg?quality=90&lb=320,179&background=white 320w, " sizes="(min-width: 992px) 940px, (min-width: 768px) 728px, (min-width: 576px) 556px, calc(100vw - 20px)" width="1000" height="562" class="wp-image-280858 alignnone size-full img-container__image" alt="1450743011221-1lxknj8f7jckr-1000-90-62a454d" title="1450743011221-1lxknj8f7jckr-1000-90-62a454d"> The alé prr winter jacket: the alé prr winter jacket This jacket is one of those jersey/jacket ’tweener pieces that does double duty. Windproof chest and front sleeve panels keep the wind from biting, but the thermal fleece material on the body keeps the whole thing breathable.

The fit is race-cut. We’ve worn it with short- and long-sleeve baselayers, but there isn’t much room for more layers. Happily, for days down to freezing you don’t need anything but a baselayer and this jacket.

Reflectivity striping works with the hi-vis styling for visibility.

$260 / £160

www.alebikewear.com

New mountain bike gear Bontrager fat bike tyres The tyre fairy dropped off some hefty fat bike treads at at BikeRadar ’s Colorado office, which is great since we’ve been getting pummeled with powder the past few weeks. It’s clear the crew at Bontrager have been having fun naming their fat bike tyres. Each takes its name from a mythical creature.

Barbegazi <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450802660066-mjk4hgjyoign-1000-90-d5c6b73.jpg?quality=90&lb=1000,563&background=white" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450802660066-mjk4hgjyoign-1000-90-d5c6b73.jpg?quality=90&lb=940,529&background=white 940w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450802660066-mjk4hgjyoign-1000-90-d5c6b73.jpg?quality=90&lb=728,409&background=white 728w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450802660066-mjk4hgjyoign-1000-90-d5c6b73.jpg?quality=90&lb=556,313&background=white 556w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450802660066-mjk4hgjyoign-1000-90-d5c6b73.jpg?quality=90&lb=355,199&background=white 355w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450802660066-mjk4hgjyoign-1000-90-d5c6b73.jpg?quality=90&lb=340,191&background=white 340w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450802660066-mjk4hgjyoign-1000-90-d5c6b73.jpg?quality=90&lb=320,180&background=white 320w, " sizes="(min-width: 992px) 940px, (min-width: 768px) 728px, (min-width: 576px) 556px, calc(100vw - 20px)" width="1000" height="563" class="wp-image-280862 alignnone size-full img-container__image" alt="1450802660066-mjk4hgjyoign-1000-90-d5c6b73" title="1450802660066-mjk4hgjyoign-1000-90-d5c6b73"> The 26×4.7in barbegazi is designed to roll through soft, unpacked snow and sand: the 26×4.7in barbegazi is designed to roll through soft, unpacked snow and sand From Swiss folklore, a small, long-bearded man covered in white fur with enormous feet. They’re rumoured to only emerge from their lairs after the first snowfall.

The Barbegazi tyre may lack white fur, but is massive, 26×4.7in volume should help it float over unpacked snow.

$120 / £90 / Not available in Australia

Rougarou <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450802660071-16fo0704868s1-1000-90-a96a834.jpg?quality=90&lb=1000,563&background=white" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450802660071-16fo0704868s1-1000-90-a96a834.jpg?quality=90&lb=940,529&background=white 940w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450802660071-16fo0704868s1-1000-90-a96a834.jpg?quality=90&lb=728,409&background=white 728w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450802660071-16fo0704868s1-1000-90-a96a834.jpg?quality=90&lb=556,313&background=white 556w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450802660071-16fo0704868s1-1000-90-a96a834.jpg?quality=90&lb=355,199&background=white 355w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450802660071-16fo0704868s1-1000-90-a96a834.jpg?quality=90&lb=340,191&background=white 340w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450802660071-16fo0704868s1-1000-90-a96a834.jpg?quality=90&lb=320,180&background=white 320w, " sizes="(min-width: 992px) 940px, (min-width: 768px) 728px, (min-width: 576px) 556px, calc(100vw - 20px)" width="1000" height="563" class="wp-image-280865 alignnone size-full img-container__image" alt="1450802660071-16fo0704868s1-1000-90-a96a834" title="1450802660071-16fo0704868s1-1000-90-a96a834"> The 26×3.8in gnarwhal comes in spiked and spikeless versions (shown) : the 26×3.8in gnarwhal comes in spiked and spikeless versions (shown) From Cajun folklore, a beast of the swamps that resembles a werewolf and has a thirst for blood. The 26×3.8in Rougarou is designed to be fat but fast. It features six rows of low-profile knobs to balance grip and rolling resistance. It’s intended to excel on hardpacked dirt and groomed snow.

$120 / £90 /Not available in Australia

Gnarwhal <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450802660074-px6udgxldeaw-1000-90-32cd013.jpg?quality=90&lb=1000,563&background=white" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450802660074-px6udgxldeaw-1000-90-32cd013.jpg?quality=90&lb=940,529&background=white 940w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450802660074-px6udgxldeaw-1000-90-32cd013.jpg?quality=90&lb=728,409&background=white 728w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450802660074-px6udgxldeaw-1000-90-32cd013.jpg?quality=90&lb=556,313&background=white 556w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450802660074-px6udgxldeaw-1000-90-32cd013.jpg?quality=90&lb=355,199&background=white 355w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450802660074-px6udgxldeaw-1000-90-32cd013.jpg?quality=90&lb=340,191&background=white 340w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450802660074-px6udgxldeaw-1000-90-32cd013.jpg?quality=90&lb=320,180&background=white 320w, " sizes="(min-width: 992px) 940px, (min-width: 768px) 728px, (min-width: 576px) 556px, calc(100vw - 20px)" width="1000" height="563" class="wp-image-280869 alignnone size-full img-container__image" alt="1450802660074-px6udgxldeaw-1000-90-32cd013" title="1450802660074-px6udgxldeaw-1000-90-32cd013"> The 26×3.8in rougarou is a fat bike tire designed for speed over hardpack and groomed snow: the 26×3.8in rougarou is a fat bike tire designed for speed over hardpack and groomed snow Okay, so not all of Bontrager’s fat bike tyres are named after fictitious creatures. The narwhals are very real, but adding “gnar” to these treads just make sense. The gnarwhal is a 26×3.8in tyre that comes in a studded version for the ultimate bite in icy conditions, or a lighter non-studded version.

We’re testing the non-studded version, which still features plenty of tall knobs with ample sipping to maximise grip.

$120 / £90 /Not available in Australia

www.trekbikes.com

Pearl Izumi X-ALP Launch II <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450804600905-1wmblc679n79v-1000-90-49c8011.jpg?quality=90&lb=1000,563&background=white" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450804600905-1wmblc679n79v-1000-90-49c8011.jpg?quality=90&lb=940,529&background=white 940w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450804600905-1wmblc679n79v-1000-90-49c8011.jpg?quality=90&lb=728,409&background=white 728w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450804600905-1wmblc679n79v-1000-90-49c8011.jpg?quality=90&lb=556,313&background=white 556w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450804600905-1wmblc679n79v-1000-90-49c8011.jpg?quality=90&lb=355,199&background=white 355w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450804600905-1wmblc679n79v-1000-90-49c8011.jpg?quality=90&lb=340,191&background=white 340w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450804600905-1wmblc679n79v-1000-90-49c8011.jpg?quality=90&lb=320,180&background=white 320w, " sizes="(min-width: 992px) 940px, (min-width: 768px) 728px, (min-width: 576px) 556px, calc(100vw - 20px)" width="1000" height="563" class="wp-image-280874 alignnone size-full img-container__image" alt="1450804600905-1wmblc679n79v-1000-90-49c8011" title="1450804600905-1wmblc679n79v-1000-90-49c8011"> #: # Pearl’s trail / enduro shoe recently underwent a top to bottom redesign. The new X-Alp Launch II uses a micro-adjustable Boa dial with a toe strap to fine tune fit. A carbon-injected composite shank keeps the Alp-X Launch II firm under pedalling, while an EVA foam midsole provides cushioning when hike-a-biking. Under all that is a grippy rubber sole with plenty of lugs to provide traction when scrambling up rocks.

The Alp-X Launch II comes in both men’s and women’s version. The weight for a size 43 is 380g.

www.pearlizumi.com

$160 / £110 / AUS $220

Leatt Airflex Pro knee guards <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450804872000-1w85lq0xjqgmg-1000-90-ed98fd5.jpg?quality=90&lb=1000,562&background=white" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450804872000-1w85lq0xjqgmg-1000-90-ed98fd5.jpg?quality=90&lb=940,528&background=white 940w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450804872000-1w85lq0xjqgmg-1000-90-ed98fd5.jpg?quality=90&lb=728,409&background=white 728w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450804872000-1w85lq0xjqgmg-1000-90-ed98fd5.jpg?quality=90&lb=556,312&background=white 556w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450804872000-1w85lq0xjqgmg-1000-90-ed98fd5.jpg?quality=90&lb=355,199&background=white 355w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450804872000-1w85lq0xjqgmg-1000-90-ed98fd5.jpg?quality=90&lb=340,191&background=white 340w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450804872000-1w85lq0xjqgmg-1000-90-ed98fd5.jpg?quality=90&lb=320,179&background=white 320w, " sizes="(min-width: 992px) 940px, (min-width: 768px) 728px, (min-width: 576px) 556px, calc(100vw - 20px)" width="1000" height="562" class="wp-image-280878 alignnone size-full img-container__image" alt="1450804872000-1w85lq0xjqgmg-1000-90-ed98fd5" title="1450804872000-1w85lq0xjqgmg-1000-90-ed98fd5"> Leatt’s new airflex pro knee pads provide knee and upper shin protection, or whole leg protection if you’re a dog: leatt’s new airflex pro knee pads provide knee and upper shin protection, or whole leg protection if you’re a dog The Airflex is Leatt’s slim line of soft protective gear. The new Airflex Pro pads build on the success of the minimalist 3DF Airflex pads by adding 6mm-thick padding to the sides and top of the knee.

<img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450805025785-1gn5vxfsp4352-1000-90-9154770.jpg?quality=90&lb=1000,563&background=white" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450805025785-1gn5vxfsp4352-1000-90-9154770.jpg?quality=90&lb=940,529&background=white 940w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450805025785-1gn5vxfsp4352-1000-90-9154770.jpg?quality=90&lb=728,409&background=white 728w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450805025785-1gn5vxfsp4352-1000-90-9154770.jpg?quality=90&lb=556,313&background=white 556w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450805025785-1gn5vxfsp4352-1000-90-9154770.jpg?quality=90&lb=355,199&background=white 355w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450805025785-1gn5vxfsp4352-1000-90-9154770.jpg?quality=90&lb=340,191&background=white 340w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450805025785-1gn5vxfsp4352-1000-90-9154770.jpg?quality=90&lb=320,180&background=white 320w, " sizes="(min-width: 992px) 940px, (min-width: 768px) 728px, (min-width: 576px) 556px, calc(100vw - 20px)" width="1000" height="563" class="wp-image-280880 alignnone size-full img-container__image" alt="1450805025785-1gn5vxfsp4352-1000-90-9154770" title="1450805025785-1gn5vxfsp4352-1000-90-9154770"> In addition to protection over the front of the knee, the leatt airflex pro knee pads have padding on the sides of the knee and lower thigh: in addition to protection over the front of the knee, the leatt airflex pro knee pads have padding on the sides of the knee and lower thigh The Airflex Pro is held in place with silicone grippers on the top of the sleeve as well as the kneecup. Leatt offers these CE-certified kneepads in S, M, L, XL and XXL sizes.

$79 / £65 / AUS $130

www.leatt.com

Paul Klampers <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450805713429-z5ew5lptrlis-1000-90-106c343.jpg?quality=90&lb=1000,562&background=white" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450805713429-z5ew5lptrlis-1000-90-106c343.jpg?quality=90&lb=940,528&background=white 940w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450805713429-z5ew5lptrlis-1000-90-106c343.jpg?quality=90&lb=728,409&background=white 728w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450805713429-z5ew5lptrlis-1000-90-106c343.jpg?quality=90&lb=556,312&background=white 556w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450805713429-z5ew5lptrlis-1000-90-106c343.jpg?quality=90&lb=355,199&background=white 355w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450805713429-z5ew5lptrlis-1000-90-106c343.jpg?quality=90&lb=340,191&background=white 340w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450805713429-z5ew5lptrlis-1000-90-106c343.jpg?quality=90&lb=320,179&background=white 320w, " sizes="(min-width: 992px) 940px, (min-width: 768px) 728px, (min-width: 576px) 556px, calc(100vw - 20px)" width="1000" height="562" class="wp-image-280884 alignnone size-full img-container__image" alt="1450805713429-z5ew5lptrlis-1000-90-106c343" title="1450805713429-z5ew5lptrlis-1000-90-106c343"> After three years of development paul’s klamper mechanical disc brakes are now available: after three years of development paul’s klamper mechanical disc brakes are now available Paul Components has a long history of making high quality cantilever and linear pull brakes. This American manufacturer recently added a mechanical disc brake to its line.

<img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450805713434-5vlrkud9xfgx-1000-90-da6c0a4.jpg?quality=90&lb=1000,563&background=white" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450805713434-5vlrkud9xfgx-1000-90-da6c0a4.jpg?quality=90&lb=940,529&background=white 940w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450805713434-5vlrkud9xfgx-1000-90-da6c0a4.jpg?quality=90&lb=728,409&background=white 728w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450805713434-5vlrkud9xfgx-1000-90-da6c0a4.jpg?quality=90&lb=556,313&background=white 556w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450805713434-5vlrkud9xfgx-1000-90-da6c0a4.jpg?quality=90&lb=355,199&background=white 355w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450805713434-5vlrkud9xfgx-1000-90-da6c0a4.jpg?quality=90&lb=340,191&background=white 340w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450805713434-5vlrkud9xfgx-1000-90-da6c0a4.jpg?quality=90&lb=320,180&background=white 320w, " sizes="(min-width: 992px) 940px, (min-width: 768px) 728px, (min-width: 576px) 556px, calc(100vw - 20px)" width="1000" height="563" class="wp-image-280887 alignnone size-full img-container__image" alt="1450805713434-5vlrkud9xfgx-1000-90-da6c0a4" title="1450805713434-5vlrkud9xfgx-1000-90-da6c0a4"> The fixed side of the caliper uses a dial to set the location of the stationary brake pad, similar to the avid/sram bb7 design : the fixed side of the caliper uses a dial to set the location of the stationary brake pad, similar to the avid/sram bb7 design The Klamper uses a single-sided arm that pivots on a set of bearings to engage the rotor. The design is similar to the Avid/SRAM BB7 disc brake.

Paul offers the Klamper in silver and black and in both long and short-pull versions. Paul also sells the actuator arms separately, so riders can swap them for mountain and road/cyclocross use.

$179 / £120 / AU $256 (price per caliper)

http://paulcomp.com

Surly Wednesday <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450806139018-hggaqtkuqnlu-1000-90-89102c0.jpg?quality=90&lb=1000,563&background=white" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450806139018-hggaqtkuqnlu-1000-90-89102c0.jpg?quality=90&lb=940,529&background=white 940w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450806139018-hggaqtkuqnlu-1000-90-89102c0.jpg?quality=90&lb=728,409&background=white 728w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450806139018-hggaqtkuqnlu-1000-90-89102c0.jpg?quality=90&lb=556,313&background=white 556w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450806139018-hggaqtkuqnlu-1000-90-89102c0.jpg?quality=90&lb=355,199&background=white 355w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450806139018-hggaqtkuqnlu-1000-90-89102c0.jpg?quality=90&lb=340,191&background=white 340w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1450806139018-hggaqtkuqnlu-1000-90-89102c0.jpg?quality=90&lb=320,180&background=white 320w, " sizes="(min-width: 992px) 940px, (min-width: 768px) 728px, (min-width: 576px) 556px, calc(100vw - 20px)" width="1000" height="563" class="wp-image-280891 alignnone size-full img-container__image" alt="1450806139018-hggaqtkuqnlu-1000-90-89102c0" title="1450806139018-hggaqtkuqnlu-1000-90-89102c0"> #: # Last year we reviewed the Surly Ice Cream Truck . It’s a beast of a bike, capable floating over any terrain.

Unlike the Ice Cream Truck, the Wednesday isn’t designed to fit the largest tyres on the largest rims. It uses the smaller 170x12mm rear thru-axle standard and a more pedal-friendly 100mm-wide bottom bracket shell. It’s a bit more nimble, with trail-oriented geometry and the ability to run a 100mm suspension fork and the option to run an internally-routed seatpost.Like all of Surly’s models, the Wednesday is constructed from 4130 chromoly steel tubing.

$1499 / £TBC / AUS TBC