Photography by CyclingTips

CTech May Product Picks

by Matt Wikstrom, Wade Wallace and Matt de Neef

In this month's swag of products you'll find new lights from Knog, Echelon Sports, and Moon, t-shirts from Apres Velo, customised team Sky kit from Rapha, Castelli Fawesome Vest and Nano Flex armwarmers, kit from Attaquer and Babici, socks from Capo and Bontrager, tyres from Specialized, chainrings from Praxis and shoes from Shimano. Have you used any of these items extensively? Let us know your thoughts.

Knog Blinder Road

Knog introduced the Blinder range of lights last year and they’re neat, self-contained units that are simple to fit to your bike and use LiPo rechargeable batteries. The new Blinder Road lights continue to use integrated silicone mounting straps but there is more power for the rear light (now 70 lumens) plus a new high-powered front light that pumps out up 200 lumens of white light.

The front light has two Cree LEDs — one provides a wide-angle beam, the other a narrow beam — that can be used individually or together in either static or flash modes. There are also two power settings for the output. Expect a run-time of one hour when using both static beams on high power compared to six hours when running them in flash mode on low power.

The rear light uses a column of three high-powered LEDs and one Cree LED that can also be used in one of three flashing modes or two static modes with a run time of up to 20 hours.

Blinder Road lights are finished with anodised aluminium faces in either black, red, gunmetal or grape. Both lights are waterproof and have low power indicators; the front light also has an indicator for low/high power output. The front light also comes with two interchangeable silicone straps to suit 22-28mm and 29-35mm diameters for mounting, a helmet mount (with velcro straps), and a USB extension lead for charging.

RRP: Front: $85; rear $60

For more info see Knog.

CTech’s Take:

“

I’m a big fan of the design of these lights; they are perhaps the cleanest-looking units on the market. I also like how everything, including battery charging, is integrated into a single lightweight unit that is simple to mount and reasonably easy to use while on the bike, although the buttons are difficult operate while wearing full-finger gloves.

I’ve read a fair bit of criticism about Knog’s silicone cases — some users have snapped the straps with light use but I’ve never had the same problem, even after almost a year of using a Blinder rear light. Knog have responded to this shortcoming by introducing a detachable strap for the front light that can replaced if it breaks.

The short USB lead included with both the front and rear lights makes it easier to plug the unit into a computer for charging, addressing another common complaint about Knog’s Blinder lights. Out in the dark, these lights are perfectly suited for urban use where there is some ambient light.

With both beams on high power, you can expect the front light to create a reasonably well-lit corridor with around 20 meters of visibility. That makes for a pretty generous response time but riders facing long unlit stretches will want a light with a lot more output like the Fyxo 1000 that we looked at last year.

Regular users will have to get into the habit of charging the front light after every ride to compensate for the shortish run time or use high power sparingly. The Blinder Road rear light performs as well as the rest of the Blinder range but is improved by the addition of a steady output mode with just two LEDs that is much easier to follow in a bunch. My only criticism is that there isn’t an indicator to distinguish the different output modes for either light so I can avoid looking into the light to find the mode I’m after.

Echelon Sports Lights

Echelon Sports has a wide range of front and rear lights in its catalogue and the Beacon, Flare and Gamma Ray lights occupy the upper end. All of these lights use rechargeable batteries and USB charging. The Beacon and Flare tail lights are supplied with a tool-free mounting bracket and a USB Mini-B to Standard-A cord for charging. Both lights have similar run (up to seven hours in flash/strobe mode) and charge times (two hours) however the Beacon has a higher output (60 lumens) than the Flare.

The Gamma Ray front light comes packaged with everything you need including a wall-charger and brackets for both handlebars (22-31.8mm) and helmets. The Cree LED that serves the Gamma Ray can pump out 500 lumens for over 90 minutes on its highest power setting and the lithium ion battery can be recharged in three hours. Each light is equipped with a low power indicator and four or five operating modes that differ in output and flash frequency.

RRP: ES 601 ES Beacon: $50, ES 600 ES Flare: $30; ES501 ES Gamma Ray $130.

For more information, visit Echelon Sports.

Echelon Sports’ Flare (left), Beacon (centre), and Gamma Ray (right) lights.

CTech’s Take:

“

The Gamma Ray is not the most elegant-looking light when mounted on the bars but the output of this light is very impressive. There’s lots of bright white light to chase away every shadow for at least 30 meters, with some penetration into the dark beyond that, all without the bulk or fuss of a separate battery pack.

I’d like to see a better bracket that allows the Gamma Ray to be mounted under the stem (to minimise its intrusiveness). A remote switch that allows the output to be toggled to suit changing conditions and oncoming riders would also be a very welcome addition. As for the rear lights, the Beacon and Flare are simple to mount and the output is impressive, especially for the Beacon.

Moon X-Power 300 & Shield Light Set

This light set is ideal for long, dark rides with both lights being fully rechargeable via a USB cable and a supplied charger. The X-Power 300 (front light) is rated at 300 lumens while the rear light, Shield, is rated at 60 lumens.

RRP: $150 (front & rear package)

For more info see Moonlights.

CTech’s Take:

“

Bright, rechargeable battery, water resistant, multi-mode, and a great price in a packaged bundle (front & rear) at a great price. What more can you ask from a light as winter approaches?

Apres Velo T-shirts

The guys behind Apres Velo are passionate about bike riding and you’ll find this passion infuses all the clothing they design. Their t-shirts come in two basics shapes: semi-fitted with a crew neck or slim-fit with a round or v-neck. Designs range from “A Life to Behind Bars” to “Wheel Worship”, “Cycling Nuts”, “Shut Up Legs” and “True Religion”. All told there are over two dozen different t-shirt designs to choose from. Apres Velo also offer an undershirt, jackets and hoodies for men, plus a range of clothing for women.

RRP: $50 for all t-shirts.

More information on ApresVelo website.

“

If you like to display your passion for bikes, then Apres Velo’s designs are likely to appeal. These t-shirts are constructed from a mid-weight fabric that is easy to wear, where the slim-fit t-shirts offer a slightly closer fit than the semi-fitted shirts.

The seams appear to be finished with a great deal of care and overall each t-shirt has a high-quality look and feel. There are plenty of enticements to be found should you visit their website, plus keep an eye out for their new range of cycling wear and merino tops.

Personalized Team Sky Replica Jersey & Team Sky Pro Bib Shorts

Based on Rapha’s popular ProTeam jersey, the main body of the jersey is made from a breathable performance fabric, while the side panels use a more open mesh to help regulate body temperature. The side panels ensure a good fit and also help keep the jersey’s pockets stable when loaded.

The jersey has three large cargo pockets, as well as a vertical zipped valuables pocket. The left arm features a contrast Sky blue armband, while the rear of the jersey features Team Sky’s distinctive central blue stripe.

Based on the well known ProTeam Bib, the Team Sky Bib Shorts are made from a comfortable, Elastane-based fabric that is breathable, durable and has good stretch. The fabric also has a wicking treatment to improve moisture transfer and an anti-bacterial treatment to prevent the build-up of the bacteria that can irritate the skin.

RRP:

Personalised Team Sky Replica Jersey: $150 AUD; Team Sky Pro Bib Shorts $250 AUD.

For more info see Personalised Team Sky Replica Jersey.
For more info see Team Sky Pro Bib Shorts.

CTech’s Take:

“

We’ve already raved about the quality, fit, styling and innovation of Rapha products, and this level of personalisation to activate their Sky partnership brings them into a league of their own. Sure your mates might take the micky out of you for wearing pro-kit out on the bunch ride, but it’s only because they’re jealous. Laugh all you want. I’ll be wearing mine…

Castelli Fawesome Vest & Nano Flex Arm Warmers

According to Castelli, the Fawesome Vest offers a high-performance blend of wind and water protection in a lightweight, aerodynamic package. They’ve apparently obsessed over the fit to the point that it’s nearly as aero as the company’s Aero Race Jersey. The windproof and water-resistant Windstopper X-Lite Plus fabric on the front and shoulders keeps the wind off.

Other features include a high collar to keep the wind out when descending, Velocity fabric on the back of the vest for temperature regulation, and a lower-back splash guard to protect from wheel spray. Rear reflective tabs and trim at hem provide increased visibility in low-light conditions.

The Nano Flex fabric behaves just like the company’s Thermoflex fabric in dry conditions, but then provides unbelievable water repellency when it starts raining. Castelli don’t claim that it’s fully waterproof, but they do say it’s “the most effective product we’ve ever made for keeping you comfortable in all conditions”.

For more info see Fawesome Vest.
For more info see Nano Flex Arm Warmers.

CTech’s Take:

“

After the atrocious weather that the riders had to endure during the Spring Classics and seeing many riders wearing the Gabba jersey (even though it went against sponsorship agreements), we asked Castelli for a Gabba sample to test out. Unfortunately they were sold out, but we were able to test their vest that is based on the same technology as the Gabba.

We love the fluro as the days are getting shorter and the color comes into its own at dusk or dawn. The weight is perfect for those cool Autumn days with protection for those mildy damp days. It’s not a rain vest but it does have a “super-pro” snug fit, and it’s vented in all the right places. The Nano Flex armwarmers are just as they say - breathable, water resistant, and they fit perfectly. We highly recommend these.

Attaquer “Paper Planers” Kit

Here’s what the folks at Attaquer had to say about their jersey and knicks combo:

“At Attaquer, we’re not afraid to be different, and neither are those that choose to wear our designs. Cycling inspires us, so should our kit. The Paper Planers kit features sharp geometric lines based on the simple aerodynamic design of the paper aeroplane.”

Features include:

Jersey

Reduced muscle fatigue technology
50+ High UV protection
Perforated front panels for excellent, comfort, breathability and moisture wicking
Body Contour
Waist Gripper

Bib knicks:

Lazer cut legs with thermo taped gripper
Soft Bib Mesh with larger perforations for comfort and ventilation
Micro Fibre Fabric is breathable
Excellent support to the Ischia bones
Designed to Lessen pressure on perinea region

RRP: Full kit including jersey and knicks: $349

For more information, see the Attaquer website.

Greg Hamer, one of the creators of Attaquer

CTech’s Take:

“

Greg and Stevan from Attaquer are doing something different in the road scene which I like to see. Their Pater Planers kit is one of their more conservative designs but if you’re feeling like shouting out, I suggest checking out the Leafy Camo. The attention to detail in their packaging when it shows up in the mail is part of a satisfying experience and the kit works, fits, and feels like some of the best on the market.

They’ve chosen Elastic Interface as their chamois supplier which is an excellent choice. If you want to stand out from the pack, I suggest you give Attaquer a try.

Capo Meryl 8 200 Needle Sock

Capo’s love for socks is unparalleled as we can see from their new Meryl 8 200 Needle Socks. Meryl stands for the socks’ material, Meryl Skinlife. This fabric was chosen for hypoallergenic and bacteriostatic characteristics. The ‘8’ in the title, Capo is designating the socks 8cm cuff — very Euro. Capo also used a 200-needle machine for the socks’ construction to create a dense, conforming fabric knit without sacrificing breathability, softness, or by adding any additional bulk to the socks. As a result, you’ll find that these socks are exceedingly durable and supportive, yet highly breathable and quick-drying.

More information on Capo’s website or CompetitiveCyclist.com has a good write-up (excerpts from it used above).

RRP: $35

“

Capo prides themselves on making some of the best socks on the market and their new Meryl 8 200 Needle Sock (what a tongue twister!) raises the bar. If you think socks are just socks, think again. They’re the perfect weight, perfect fit (spot-on height), and last forever. My preference is using black for training, white for racing.

Be sure to check out Capo’s 2013 range. Some great stuff in there.

Bontrager Race 5″ & RXL 5″ Socks

Race 5″: Comfortable feet are pivotal to productive training and successful racing. Sporting a tall 5″ (12.7cm) cuff, the Race socks eliminate bunching around your foot, and move moisture away from your feet to keep them dry.

RXL 5″: Keep your feet happy. With extra cushioning in the right places, a taller cuff and moisture wicking fabric, the RXL 5″ cycling socks help keep your feet, and your ride, pleasant. These premium socks deliver performance and comfort for brisk training rides or climbing atop the podium after a hard-fought race.

RRP: Race 5″: $19.95 RXL 5″: $24.95

For more info see Bontrager.

Bontrager Race 5″ and RXL 5″ socks

Bontrager RXL 5″

CTech’s Take:

“

There’s nothing like putting on a nice new set of socks and these Bontragers are a hit. If you like long socks that rise above the first lump in the calf, you’re going to love these. They’re not too thick, not too thin. The RLX’s have different densities of material in all the right places so they’re firm and comfy.

Both the RXL and Race have a nice ribbed collar at the top so they fit snugly around the calf. I didn’t know so much thought could be put into a pair of socks.

Babici Lumiere Nero Jersey & Knicks

To quote from Babici:

“The Lumiére range is Babici’s most detailed production to date. Designed to compliment the harsh Australian summers, the Lumiére jerseys are a composition of three unique high performance fabrics, combined to deliver an aero fit with the highest level of aeration and UV protection.

Comfort, style and performance are the three main components that form every Babici knick. Using only the very best in Italian and Australian fabrics, all Babici knicks are designed around Babici’s unique chamois to deliver one of the most comfortable rides you’ll ever have.”

RRP: Jersey: $170 Knicks: $180

For more info on Lumiere Nero Jersey see Lumiere Nero Jersey.
For more info on Lumiere Nero Knicks see Lumiere Nero Knicks.

CTech’s Take:

“

Babici is a one-man brand and the amount of detail that Kev Babakian puts into his products, packaging, and order fulfillment is top notch. I visited the Babici studio in Sydney a few weeks ago and talked to Kev about what Babici was as a brand.

He told me, “It is all about being different. 99% of innovation fails but adds to a better product or result. Sure we can produce a standard product (which we do have) but that will not give us any sense of differentiation. One thing we want to be is always different.”

The Lumiere jersey is wonderful. The material feels nice against the skin, the fit is very good, and the design is beautiful. But it’s the chamois of the Lumiere knicks that first caught my eye.

I’m told that the chamois is the result of 12 months of development between Babici and the Italian Dolomiti. The chamois is not stitched inside the knicks - the same piece of material is pressing against your backside as is against the saddle. It feels loose or removed when upright and not seated. It feels weird at first, but isn’t bad once engaged.

The chamois has more movement than I’d like and I think it could be improved. The length of the knicks are slightly short but Kev tells me that they’re addressing this and they’re adding 50mm to the length of the leg. I’m looking forward to the next iteration of these knicks because I think they have great potential, however I’m not confident they’ve got the fit right. As for the styling, quality, and packaging, I’m very impressed at the attention to detail that Babici has put into their products.

Specialized Roubaix Endurance Tyres

From Specialized:

“The Roubaix is an Endurance Road tyre for epic rides from smooth country roads to rough field roads. The Roubaix is fast like any competitive road tyre, but features unique casing technologies for added comfort and puncture protection. The 23mm tread handles quick. The 25mm casing smoothes your ride and keeps you fresh. Slick centre tread for low rolling resistance, shoulder sipes for increased surface adaption and grip.”

RRP: $75

More information on the Specialized website.

CTech’s Take:

“

These tyres come just at the right time for winter on wet roads and while I haven’t done enough kilometers to test their durability, I’ve asked regular users of these tyres and they come highly recommended. Weighing in at 260 grams the Specialized Roubaix Pros are about 60-80 grams heavier when compared to performance rated tire.

But these are not a race tyre — they’re a heavy-duty training tyre that are made to be comfortable and puncture resistant. If you want a good race tyre, check out the S-Works Turbo Competition tyre. I’ve been using them for a couple months and they’re magnificent.

Praxis Cold Forged Chain Rings

Praxis Works specialises in aftermarket chainrings to suit most popular cranks. What could possibly be the big deal about chainrings? Their point of difference lies in their manufacturing process as they cold forge their chainrings. Cold forging allows them to manipulate the ring shape and tooth profile more than ever before.

To quote:

“With our ‘One-Shot’ forging we are able to increase the amount of shifting features on a chainring which normal manufacturing won’t allow. The process also creates a harder and tougher surface for durability. Individual tooth profiles, alternating tooth angles, timed ramps and tactically placed shift elevators are all jam packed onto a Praxis ring. Translation: All of these small aggregate features add up to the most durable and consistent shifting rings ever produced for cyclists.”

RRP: $170 per 2-ring set

More information at www.praxiscycles.com

CTech’s Take:

“

We reviewed the Praxis chainrings a couple months ago and said that we did not find a significant difference in shifting between these rings and the Dura Ace 7900 rings, cranks and Di2 shifting. However, Praxis readily admits that Dura Ace chainrings are the gold standard that they aim to perform as well as.

Praxis sent me a mid-compact set of their rings to compare with my Specialized chainring setup. The front shifting was noticeably better than the stock chainrings. The inside chain pick-ups grab the chain quickly and don’t miss a beat when getting onto the big dog. Plus, the machining makes them look fantastic.

The other advantage of Praxis rings is that they’re about half the cost of many other chainrings and if weight is important to you, they’re only 118 grams a pair (some of the lightest on the market).

Shimano SH-R320 Road Bike Shoes

The R320 is Shimano’s top-of-the-range road shoe and it replaces the R315, coming with a number of enhancements. Arguably the biggest improvement is Shimano’s “Dynalast” technology which reportedly increases the efficiency of the pedal stroke by ensuring less energy is lost when the shoe flexes under stress.

While Shimano’s Custom-Fit technology isn’t unique to the R320 it is still a major drawcard for this shoe. The shoe’s upper, heel and insole are made of a thermoplastic material which can be moulded specifically to your feet using an oven and vaccuum system.

The shoes weigh in at roughly 500g — depending on what size you are and the cleats you choose to attach — and they come in a couple of colour options: white with black and red trim, and black with blue trim.

ERP: $349-399

For more information see the Shimano Australia website.

CTech’s Take:

“

I tried out the black with blue trim option and while the colour combination mightn’t please everyone (pros wear black shoes, right?), I found the design quite striking.

Putting on the shoes for the first time I noticed that the arch support seemed a little higher than I’m used to in a road shoe. But after a couple of wears I got used to it and before long the shoes started to feel very comfortable.

I didn’t get a chance to get the shoes Custom-Fit — the LBS recommend two months of wear to pre-mould the uppers, heels and insole — but even without that they were already the most comfortable road shoes I’ve worn. We’ve written about Shimano’s Custom-Fit in the past so if you’d like to read more, check out this article.

It’s probably a bit cliche to say that these shoes are light and stiff but that’s exactly what they are. I got great power transfer with no noticeable flexing of the carbon fibre soles. There are (slightly) lighter shoes on the market but why pay the extra $50-$100 to get your hands (or feet?) on them when these do the job?

The shoes are tightened with two velcro straps and a ratcheting buckle. Many people prefer the tightening knob design seen on Specialized shoes but my personal preference is for the tightening system featured on these shoes, aesthetically if nothing else.

Have you used any of these items extensively? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.

Tags: Product Picks, product reviews

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Have you used the Knog Blinder Road lights? What are your thoughts?
- http://twitter.com/Clev82 Colin Levitch
  
  How would the knog lights go if you try and put them around an aero seat-post? Would the silicone strap break or would it comfortably make it around?
  - iRide Bikes
    
    Strap is too short for an aero post unfortunately. The only time we’ve had failures with the Knog straps is when people try and stretch them over parts of the bike that are clearly too big. Handlbars and standard posts will give no issues at all.
  - http://profiles.google.com/aglogan Andy Logan
    
    The more recent ones with the metal clip dont go that well. I have an older one which is a full rubber strap and it is going strong, however bought a blinder a few months back and snapped the strap with the metal clip.
    
    This is on a Giant TCR Advanced.
  - Nick
    
    If you stretch them too much, then they will snap eventually. I used a cable tie in a loop to just give that extra length, and it can fit around whatever you like without over-stretching. They are excellent on helmets as they are light, and quite directional, so if you look at a car in a side street or at a roundabout, they can see you.
  - Sonny
    
    I have snapped 4 of the original blinders on standard bars. The good thing is that Knog replaced them for me. I just rang them up and went to their office in Richmond and no problem. The say they fixed the problem on the later ones of the original blinder.
- http://www.facebook.com/andrew.boal Andrew Boal
  
  I had the older square knog blinder lights. The front one snapped it’s strap in a week. The rear one is still going fine.
  
  Swapped my front light for a Moon Meteor 200. Brilliant light.
- jimbo
  
  Have been using a rear square (4 LED) one for the past 8 months. Lasts ages on eco flash mode. Easy to change over between bikes, even with different diameter seatposts (31.6 -> 27.2). Only gripe is difficulty in seeing the low battery indicator. No issues with silicone strap.
- Tim Green
  
  I’m impressed by how KNOG stand by their products. I recently had a rear blinder for over a year and the silicon strap had snapped. I had no proof of purchase as I bought it whilst working at a bike shop, however a couple of photos and an email to KNOG and they were happy to send out a new light. Received the new unit today. Surprised.
  - bigbrother
    
    That’s because they are made for $4 in China.
- Mouse
  
  Yes, love it. But, I’d advise against getting the GT Stripe version of the front light ( I’m talking about the 4 led version) the clear lens of the Stripes extend to the top of the light and are beveled so that the light spill conflicts with your line of sight. Great light, just wish I’d got the simpler version.
- Alex
  
  Have had the original 4 LED Blinders in front and rear for close to a year, no dramas. The front is good for use on well-lit streets for generally visibility, but I tend to use a more powerful front light normally. The rear light serves me very well, highly recommend it.
- http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=758169953 Simon Gamble
  
  Yes I’ve been using blinders for about 6 months. I’ve gone through three front lights and one rear (they break at the metal clasp). Knog to their credit has been really good in replacing them but it’s pretty frustrating that a product can go to market with such a design flaw. I picked up a new rear light this week and I’m told the strap and metal clasp has been redesigned.
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Any experiences to add with the Echelon Sports Lights?
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Have a set of the Moon X-Power 300 & Shield Lights? Yeah or nah?
- http://twitter.com/matt_j_harrop Matt Harrop
  
  Yeah. I’ve found them to be great, although mounting the X-Power 300 on my TT bike’s handlebars is a bit awkward due to it being quite heavy.
  
  The Shield Light is suitably grunty. Not much fun sitting on someone’s wheel at night as it’s pretty bright!
- Rabz
  
  I have the front Moon X-Power 200 and rear Shield. Both awesome lights; super bright.
  I mount the front light upsidedown on the bars (light is under the bar) so I can still hold the tops close to the stem. Looks cleaner too. I use the supplied helmet mount from the X-200 on the stem of my CX/commuter bike; so I can simply swap the light from one bike to the other.
  
  The Shield is really bright - too bright on bunch rides for the person behind. However there is a click-adjustable interface on the seatpost bracket, so when you join the group just reach down and click it down twice so it’s angled away from the person behind.
- rgbikeboy
  
  Moon X rear light is awesome. Compulsory rear lights for veteran road races mean that there are plenty of opportunities to compare; moon is always the brightest
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Do you own any Apres Velo T-shirts?
- echidna_sg
  
  yes, 3.
  always a bit of fun and guaranteed to raise an eyebrow or two.
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Would you buy a personalized set of Rapha Team Sky kit?
- Really?
  
  Isn’t this idea getting frightfully close to wearing a “Rainbow Jersey”?
- Wiggo gets it for free
  
  IT looks great, but surely most people prepared to spend that sort of money on high end kit are not going to want team copy-cat stuff.
- jules
  
  this is a concept that is very tempting to dismiss or ridicule, but a little voice in my head is saying “people will really buy this stuff”. not me though
- http://twitter.com/damianc1 Damian C
  
  Yes and No. Yes - Signed and framed. No - Prefer not to wear team kits, im not pro. Nice flag choice on yours tho…
- Dave
  
  Showing a little support for your favourite team is one thing, getting it personalised is heading well into wanker territory. Which makes it just right for Wiggo fans.
  - Ryder
    
    I thought you were about to say ‘just right for Wade’ :)
- pedr09
  
  Sky - gack!
- Michael
  
  Absolutely not, nor should you. Wade, no, no, no.
- Pete McArthur
  
  No. Seriously why would you. It’s like playing weekend club footy in your favourite teams jersey.
  - James
    
    But you own a footy jumper, or scarff - right?
- http://twitter.com/hmoffatt Hamish Moffatt
  
  Didn’t the whole panel on the Bike Lane (including Wade) conclude that wearing pro kit on the road as a fan makes you a douche bag?
- http://twitter.com/alexvalentine alexvalentine
  
  I have a ton of Rapha stuff but I’m not a Sky fan and I only wear protour stuff on the occasional recovery ride. The idea of a personalized Sky jersey seems a little over the top, but I’m sure it will sell.
- George
  
  No.
- Erich
  
  Well, going to the opposite direction of everybody else here, yes! I like to use pro team kit replicas and would like it even more if my name was on it! of course I’m not a pro sky rider, but to me, wearing that only shows I like the team and that I’m a fan of pro cycling. I think that it depends on the cycling culture you’re inserted in… It would also be realy nice to see those who say you’re a newbie and knows nothing about cycling getting dropped while you attack and break away in a fanboy pro team kit. LOL. This one is way too expensive though
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Have you used the Castelli Fawesome Vest or Nano Flex Arm Warmers? Awesome or what?
- CTech
  
  The Nano-flex material lacks fleece lining which makes them fell a little spare on the arms when the temperatures drop below 15 degrees C or they get wet in the rain.
  
  Rain drops bead on the material and your arms stay dry provided the shower is light and short; in heavy rain, I found they became wet quickly and left my arms feeling cold. Racers may find them more comfortable to compete in as they don’t retain as much heat as a fleece-lined warmer.
  
  Anybody with long skinny arms can buy Castelli with confidence, their warmers arm designed to stay snug on arms lacking any bulk. The hard men with real guns may want to look elsewhere for a better fitting arm warmer.
  - http://www.cyclingTipsBlog.com cyclingTips
    
    Really? The one’s I have are lined with a fleece material and are warm down to 10C. Maybe they’ve updated them recently?
    - Mike P
      
      Arm Warmers - The pictures you have included are the same as mine, but I
      think they might be last years model (?). The ones pictured are fleece lined and the
      best part is that they’re a good length and fit.
      
      I tried about 5
      different arm warmers before finding these - they’re long enough to not
      leave us ‘longer armed’ people with a jersey or glove gap, yet the
      upper arm fitting isn’t designed for weight lifters (they stay up on
      skinny cyclist arms!).
      
      I use them between zero & 15 degrees, but find them too hot for racing.
    - CTech
      
      My Nanos are first generation (2-3 years old now). Sounds like they’ve updated them, and the fleece would be a definite improvement.
  - Notso Swift
    
    I have the arm warmers and I will 100% agree they are great if you have long arms and don’t fall down like most do for me
    I find they are better than that for temperature, combine with a merino undershirt and depending on how hard you are going maybe 8 but probably 10 like CT says, but then I am a bit of a hot bod and quite often pull them down to my wrists
    
    They are my second favourite to Nemisis knitted ones, although Carl’s stuff obviously isn’t so good in the wet
    - http://www.facebook.com/pmark1bike pmark1bike
      
      +1 for the knitted Nemisis arm warmers in cooler weather.
  - Dean
    
    My nano-flex arm warmers have a fleecy lining like in the picture, they keep you fairly dry until it gets really heavy but even then I find they are still warm, Wear them for anything up to around 18 degrees I would say. I am a short ass and not very bulky, I tried on a medium and they felt way to tight so I have a large that are a bit to long but fit perfect otherwise
  - JBS
    
    Nano-flex warmers are definitely lined these days and long skinny arms suits me down to a tee. Definitely better warmth than 15 deg C too, they are my go to set when the temps are in single digits.
    
    The only issue I have with them is the positioning of the seam of the knee warmers, they always seem to work their way to an annoying spot on my inner knee, no abrasion just general annoyance.
- Jim
  
  I’ve got some nanoflex products (leg warmers and knicks) work as advertised light rain & road spray beads off, and you stay warm and dry - haven’t used them in heavy rain yet.
  
  They are lined with a brushed / fleecy material and they had them really cheap on torpedo7 as well.
- donncha
  
  Haven’t used the Fawesome vest, but, unlike you guys, after watching MSR I managed to buy a Gabba Jersey for the winter and it’s brilliant. Went on a long ride in a 6C Canberra morning with only the jersey itself + arm-warmers and it was nice and toasty. No need for base layers or flappy gilets. The fluro ensured I was clearly visible to other road users too. Only downside is it gets too toasty once temp is above say 15C.
- JBS
  
  I have both. Yes both are awesome. This article reminded me to get another vest as I have a black one (only choice at the time). Neon yellow might be a good choice for early morning winter rides.
- pedr09
  
  I bought the Nanoflex arm warmers and knee warmers. I got the arm warmers in small as I have skinny arms and they are very snug, perhaps a bit too snug but I wanted to be sure they didn’t fall down. The knee warmers are medium and a good fit except for the top band which is all wiggly and floppy and require a set of thighs like Geipel or better yet, Forstermann in order to stay up. They bloody-well fall down and my legs, unlike my arms, are fairly average cyclists legs. Not good.
- dcaspira
  
  Used both Gabba and Nano Flex arms and legs last winter (Melbourne). Amazing kit. With all the investment in aero gear, wheels etc. - this is without doubt the best bang for buck during winter. Only feedback, make sure to wash immediately after use. If you’re not careful it will remind you of a wetsuit that’s been sitting in the sun too long (stinky). Other tip.. give it a does of ReviveX every so often to keep it’s water repellency in top order, and it’ll keep you smiling during winter rides.
http://www.cyclingTipsBlog.com cyclingTips

Any feedback on the Attaquer Kit? Too far left field? Or ahead of their time?
- http://twitter.com/chaskitchen Charles Cunningham
  
  Absolutely love their kit. Fits and feels great. Finally some kit with attitude.
  - http://www.facebook.com/greg.hamer Greg Hamer
    
    Thanks Charles! :)
- http://twitter.com/jasonfriedland Jason Friedland
  
  Having used the Attaquer for the last 3 months, I can say that it’s of excellent quality, cut and finish. The leg grippers are of special note and hold firm without riding up.
  
  Regarding the cut, the sleeves and legs are just that little bit longer than in other kits’ “race cuts” which is ideal as far as I’m concerned.
  
  The sizing is very much “European” - I’m 5’10”, 70kgs, 31inch waist and the Medium fits snugly ie. just right.
- MaKa
  
  Interesting concept. Brave and bold, but Rock racing have tried this and it didn’t work.
  - http://www.facebook.com/greg.hamer Greg Hamer
    
    Hi Maka,
    Thanks for the comment. We like to think that Attaquer is VERY different to Rock Racing.
    Rock Racing’s motto is that they’ve always been about attitude and not about fashion. Attaquer’s philosophy is quite the opposite, we take inspiration from current trends and our designs all have a individuality of their own.
    
    We release our next season in about 2 weeks, please drop back and check it out, hopefully you’re as impressed by it as we are excited to show it off.
    Regards,
    Greg (Attaquer)
    - Maka
      
      Well thats fair enough greg. As long as you stick to your story you should gather momentum. At least what you are doing is a little different. Last thing you want to do is put put your logo all over euro history, or better still, steal a french cycling name from the 50s and convince all the NO Idea mamils of the world that you are the only cycling brand to have ever existed. Good luck mate, go get em..
      - http://www.facebook.com/greg.hamer Greg Hamer
        
        Haha. Thanks Maka. We’re definitely not in the game of trying to convince the market that Coppi wore our kits. If anything we’re trying to breath new life in to what seems to be a, dare we say, limited choice of euro-centric and dated designs.
http://www.cyclingTipsBlog.com cyclingTips

Sporting the Bontrager Race 5″ & RXL 5″ Socks? If you like high socks, you’ll love these.
http://www.cyclingTipsBlog.com cyclingTips

Have you used the Babici Lumiere Nero Jersey & Knicks? What are your thoughs on the knicks?
- Notso Swift
  
  Short leg is an attraction to me, as long as they are not Tommy V short, I will now seek some out to look at, problem is I only get to Sydney twice a year and it is usually full on work
- Mike
  
  Picked up a set of the Babici kit recently. Its great kit and fits really well. Coming from Santini knicks the Babici material is a little thicker and holds in place better around the legs. The Chamois is thin in the middle but adequate in back. Great stuff kit all round.
- Pete McArthur
  
  Yes i have had this kit since jan this year. This is some serious kit.
- NOOG
  
  I’ve been riding the Babici Lumiere kit since the beginning of the year.
  Hands down, the chamois is the comfiest I’ve ever ridden, and low
  profile compared to some other brand’s offerings.
- Nic_3
  
  i hope babici have improved their knicks - i purchased some of their previous designs and have been very disappointed with the chamois design which I found to be poorly designed with insufficient padding around the genital area. I was also not a fan of the leg length and I always find it difficult to understand how companies can claim to ‘be addressing’ such basic issues like this. I will happily support an Aussie company like them again once they sort their matters out.
- PdPR
  
  I have been using the Lumiere kit over the whole summer and have found it to be faultless. I spend many hours in the saddle year on year and to date this is the best kit I’ve worn.
  
  I have to disagree with “CTECH’S TAKE” on the chamois. My personal experience it that after a couple of washes and rides, the chamois actual becomes unnoticeable and un-intrusive. It is simply the best chamois I’ve ridden on and I would not change a thing.
  
  However, I would not disagree with the length on the bibs, but this is something that I expect to be resolved in the next iteration of the Lumiere bibs.
  
  I now have quite a few items from Babici as I find the quality to be second to none and also something a little different and special from the mainstream kit available.
http://www.cyclingTipsBlog.com cyclingTips

Put a few kilometers on the Specialized Roubaix Endurance Tyres? How have they been?
- Nick
  
  Replaced my Conti GP4000s with these and absolutely love them. Smooth and supple on the road, great in the wet even when descending at 60kmh+. Highly recommended for an all year training/race tyre.
  - http://twitter.com/hmoffatt Hamish Moffatt
    
    How are they better than the 4000s, which seem ok in the wet too?
    How’s the price compare too? Unfortunately the article didn’t mention the cost.
- http://twitter.com/patrickxsmith Patrick Smith
  
  They’re definitely one of my goto tyres, somewhere in between Contintental GP4000 and gatorskins in terms of performance and puncture resistance.
http://www.cyclingTipsBlog.com cyclingTips

Using the Praxis Chainrings? Any feedback?
- http://profiles.google.com/aglogan Andy Logan
  
  Yes, I use them with my Quarq and I came from a Ultegra crank, I noticed an improvement, I wouldnt say massive but a noticeable difference in the crispness of the shifting in particular the combination of Di2 and the Praxis rings going from small ring to the big dog, big difference there as well.
  
  Compared to my Ultegra crank which would occasionally miss a pick up, the Praxis rings dont.
  
  There not very blingy but I love them.
- THM
  
  I have Praxis Compacts on THM Carbones crankset running 10 sp Campy Record.
  
  Shift wise they are a great improvement, no more chain suck ever.
  
  But I find them much noisier than previous chainrings to the point where it is starting to really annoy me.
  
  OK if chain line is perfectly straight but deviate down or up a few cogs and the noise starts and it is not from the front der rubbing. Using a Campy Record chain.
  - THM
    
    Oh and forgot to say. The CTech picks are my favourite posts on the site. Love new kit!
- http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1320926656 Matthew Emeott
  
  I switched to Praxis rings after having folded over teeth on two different FSA large chainrings (was having front shifting issues with Di2 shifting into big ring. it would literally bend one of the teeth over like a whale’s top fin). I hadn’t had this issue with the original DA crank/chanirings (had switched to an SRM that had FSAs on it) and once i switched over to the Praxis the problem disappeared again.
  
  i would think the machined FSA crankrings are just too soft to withstand the force generated by the Di2 front servo if it is marginally misaligned but the Praxis rings are considerably harder and don’t have this issue.
  
  basically if you are running Di2 on non-shimano crankset, buy a set of these as they are worth the money.
- http://twitter.com/alexvalentine alexvalentine
  
  Praxis rings are great, I had them on my specialized crank and I saw noticeable improvements compared to the stock s-works rings plus they were cheaper.
http://www.cyclingTipsBlog.com cyclingTips

Do you have a pair of the Shimano SHR320 Shoes? What are your thoughts?
- jules
  
  i do not, but i am a fan of shimano shoes. i have a pair of their AM50 SPDs and these have copped abuse on an epic scale - 5 years of commuting, MTBing, crashing, rain, hail.. indestructible. they have outlasted every other piece of equipment i’ve owned. they’ve got me as a loyal customer.
- dcaspira
  
  R320’s have been amazing this summer, arch support over the 315’s is incredible - not to mention more upstroke control (branded Dynalast). If you believe the hype, Dynalast is meant to conserve 5% power lost in pedal efficiency over previous generations. Not sure I can vouch for that, though the shoe is stable and superb. Congrats Shimano - great job.
- Guest
  
  20 years of sidi loyalty, and then i tried these. I am coverted! Custom molded fit is a must.
- Tim David
  
  20 years of sidi loyalty, then I tried these. Custom molded to my feet and i am converted.
Cheah Wei Wen

the straps for the rechargeable lights snap rather easily
- Cheah Wei Wen
  
  for the knog lights that is
http://www.cyclingTipsBlog.com cyclingTips

Capo socks? Yeah, the goods…
http://twitter.com/hmoffatt Hamish Moffatt

For my sort of riding, can’t beat Ay-Ups for lights. Plenty of light, plenty of battery life, and the batteries are external so you can just swap them over as needed. Significantly more expensive than the lights reviewed above, and worth it.