Gear Break: Fizik Tempo Decos Carbon Iridescent Shoes, Tifosi Vogel SL Glasses, Zwift Scotland, State Bicycle Co. Carbon Frame, Lotto Dstny with PRO Bags & Lezyne Tubeless Kit
What's new on the bike market?
Gear Break: Fizik Tempo Decos Carbon Iridescent shoes, Tifosi Vogel SL glasses, Zwift launches Scotland: Your racing playground, State Bicycle Co. announces first-ever carbon frame: The undefeated carbon disc road frameset, Lotto Dstny will be packing its bags with PRO’s world-class accessories and Lezyne introducing the Pro tubeless kit.
Fizik Tempo Decos Carbon Iridescent – $299.99
PEZ sez: The pro peloton and your average weekend group ride is a sea of white shoes with carbon fiber soles and BOA dials. Definitely classy looking, but sometimes you want to make a statement/stand out from the crowd. If that’s your cup of tea, then the Fizik Tempo Decos Carbon Iridescent shoes are the ‘droids you’re looking for.
I’ll have a more full review at a later date, so consider this a PEZ sneak peek for now.
Design-wise, the Tempo Decos Carbon Iridescent is what Fizik calls “minimalist.” Almost all “pro” road shoes have two BOA (or some other type) dials for fit adjustment — one across the instep and the other for the forefoot. The Tempo Decos Carbon Iridescent makes do with a single BOA Li2 dial. This isn’t too unlike my older Fizik R3 Uomo shoes that have a single BOA dial and a velcro strap for forefoot adjustment. In my experience, Fizik has a single dial shoe dialed in (pun intended) to provide a firm yet comfortable fit.
Speaking of fit, my average width size 9 US (size 42 Euro in Fizik’s sizing — try before you buy is always a good idea) fit me just fine.
As its name implies, the Tempo Decos Carbon Iridescent has a full carbon sole. Fizik claims “a stiffness index rating of 10, making this outsole the most responsive in the fizik range.” Given my experience riding the Fizik R3 Uomo for several years, I expect that the Tempo Decos Carbon will be plenty stiff enough for my meager power output.
The upper is very well ventilated and is made with what Fizik calls “a resilient polyurethane-laminated material combined over a comfortable mesh.” It’s “slick” to the touch and I’ll be interested to see if/how it repels water and dirt.
It’s the color of the upper that sets the Tempo Decos Carbon Iridescent apart from the crowd: an aquamarine-ish hue (Fizik calls it “light blue”) with an iridescent “glow.” Depending on how light hits it, the shoe kind of “shimmers.” Definitely on the bling side of things.
But the upper isn’t all aquamarine/light blue. The inside of the heel section is black. Whatever you think of this in terms of style points, in terms of functionality it’s genius IMHO. It may not happen a lot, but if the inside of your heel rubs your chain or chain stay, the black mark can be difficult to clean up (especially on white shoes). Not an issue with the Tempo Decos Carbon Iridescent.
I need to get some miles riding in them, but stay tuned for my more detailed review of the Fizik Tempo Decos Carbon.
Fizik specs 228 grams (but doesn’t say for what size); mine weighed in a little more than that. And notice how under different light the color looks different.
Tifosi Vogel SL sunglasses – $39.95
PEZ sez: PEZ readers will know that I’m a fan of Tifosi sunglasses. If I was Italian instead of Flipino, I’d be a Tifosi tifosi. Their newest cycling sunglasses (although there isn’t any reason you couldn’t use them for running or other sports/outdoor activities) is the Vogel SL.
As is the current trend, the Vogel SL is a “large format” shield style. The lens measures 130mm wide x 58.6mm tall — a millimeter less in both directions than their Rail but still more than enough real estate for sun and wind protection. You’ll definitely look EuroPro wearing the Vogel SL.
The Vogel SL comes in four different frame/lens combinations. PEZ got the Crystal Clear model with the rose/pink-ish mirrored lens. I know style is in the eye of the beholder, but IMHO this frame/lens combo stands out from the crowd. Regardless of which frame/lens combo you choose, you’ll get clear optics (what matters most) and a smoke tint that’s ideally suited for sunny, bright, cloudless days (but, in my experience, isn’t too dark if light clouds roll in).
Spot on spec weight
Where the Vogel SL is different from most other cycling sunglasses (and even other sunglasses in the Tifosi range — none of which is more than $100) is price. Only $39.95! No, that’s not a typo. I’ll repeat that … only $39.95. However, at that price point you don’t get extra lenses (e.g., clear or high contrast) or a hardshell case.
But if all you want is a pair of cycling sunglasses that don’t break the bank and are on point with the latest EuroPro fashion trend, the Tifosi Vogel SL is that. And at that price, you could probably afford to buy a couple pairs to mix and match with different kit.
Zwift Launches Scotland: Your Racing Playground
Designed for Training and Racing, Zwift’s Newest World Is Inspired by Glasgow and Scottish Landscapes.
Zwift, the global online fitness platform for cyclists, is excited to announce its latest world, Scotland. This new world is Zwift’s first designed specifically for the UCI Cycling Esports World Championships. At launch, Scotland will contain five routes, three of which will be used in the fast, exciting new multi-format racing that will determine the 2023 Cycling Esports World Champions on February 18.
Zwift’s Scotland world was inspired by the city of Glasgow – site of the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships – as well as the beautiful, striking Scottish countryside. The new routes take cyclists past castles, fens, lochs, beinns (gaelic for mountains), sgurrs (rocky peaks), and cityscapes inspired by Glasgow. Zwifters should also be on the lookout for Scottish-themed Easter eggs as they ride.
Scotland contains five routes that will give Zwifters a combined total of 58.8 kilometers to explore, ride, and race:
Rolling Highlands – 14.1 kilometers with 105 meters of climbing. This rollercoaster ride around the loch will have Zwifters constantly going up or downhill. In races, the punchy course provides lots of places to attack. In riding and training, the rolling hills are the perfect place to train quick bursts of power as you push yourself up the repeated short climbs.
City and the Sgurr – 8.6 kilometers with 161 meters of climbing. Sgurr means “rocky peak” in Scottish Gaelic, and this route tackles Zwift’s newest hill from two directions. Roundabouts at the bottom of both sides of the climb mean that Zwifters can easily lap the climb, making it the perfect place for hill repeats, or very challenging racing!
Glasgow Crit Circuit – 3 kilometers with 33 meters of climbing. Zwift’s newest crit course is set in the heart of Glasgow’s city center and shows off the city’s distinctive architecture. The short course has short, punchy climbs, tight, twisty roads, and two arches. The course provides options for any length of race on the easily lapable route that’s sure to produce intense racing.
Loch Loop – 8 kilometers with 71 meters of climbing. This loop is a time trialists’ paradise – the long, lapable course, is mostly flat and incorporates some of the Rolling Highlands, but skips the bigger climbs, giving Zwifters only a few gentle hills thrown in to break up their effort. The course measures 5 miles, making it the perfect place for 5-, 10-, 15-, or 20-mile time trials or team time trials. Or, keep riding for harder efforts! For traditional racing, exploring, and training, the Loch Loop also offers a flatter alternative to the Rolling Highlands.
The Muckle Yin – 25.1 kilometers with 279 meters of climbing. This is the big one – a single route that incorporates almost all of Scotland’s roads in one single loop. The route starts in the heart of Glasgow city center and quickly takes riders out to the sheer cliffs on Scotland’s west coast before rolling along north to the loch, and then to the sugar and its dramatic views. This challenging route lets you take in all of Scotland’s most distinctive and engaging features in one ride or race.
Scotland will initially be available only for events and races. Zwifters’ first chance to ride Scotland will be during Stage 8 of the Tour de Zwift, Feb 3-12. Ride Scotland and Race Scotland events are scheduled from February 6 to March 7 for those who miss Tour de Zwift or want more time to ride the new map. The February ZRacing series will also be held on the Scotland map. Completing a ZRacing or Ride Scotland event on the new map will unlock a Zwift Tartan cycling kit. Scotland will be available for free ride, club events and meetups beginning in early March.
The UCI Cycling Esports World Championships will be held on the Scotland map on February 18. Details, including a description of the multirace format, are available here.
PEZ sez: I managed to ride some of the Rolling Highlands during the press preview slots and it is very enjoyable. Fast and without any thing too hard. It should be great to race on and if you need some fast K’s (or miles), it should be perfect. In some ways it is like the French map, but much more interesting and more things going on to keep you interested, or take your mind off the pain. All the ubiquitous Scottish things are there: Loch Ness monster, castles, mountains, the purple heather…. and bagpipe music. I’m looking forward to riding the other circuits: ‘The Muckle Yin’ has more climbing and the ‘Glasgow Crit Circuit’ looks fast and I used to live on the real circuit, many years ago. Scotland is going to be a great addition, especially when it is open for free rides.
- More info at: zwift.com.
State Bicycle Co. Announces First-Ever Carbon Frame: The Undefeated Carbon Disc Road Frameset
State Bicycle Co. announces the release of its latest addition to its comprehensive line of bikes for all riders: the Undefeated Carbon Disc Road Frameset.
This high-performance bike frame is constructed with cutting-edge carbon fiber materials and features advanced aerodynamics for maximum speed and efficiency. The Undefeated Carbon Disc Road is not only lightweight and durable, but it also boasts unparalleled stiffness and power transfer, making it the perfect choice for serious cyclists and competitive riders.
“We are thrilled to bring an accessible top-off-the-line performance to the masses,” said Mehdi Farsi, Co-Founder of State Bicycle Co. “Our team and staff including myself have been riding these as prototypes for about 3 years now. After the pandemic has cooled we’re finally able to bring this to light and we know our audience will love it. We hope this can take our more serious riders’ performance to the next level, without breaking the bank”
Specs:
- Frame: High-mod T800 carbon fiber
- Fork: Full Carbon Fiber Fork & Steer Tube (430 grams uncut)
- Headset: Included – Integrated and Sealed
- Bottom Bracket Standard: BSA (Threaded)
- Front Axle: 100x12mm (thru-axle included)
- Rear Axle: 142x12mm (thru-axle included)
- Carbon Fiber Seat Post Included: 212 grams
- Max Tire Clearance 30c
- MSRP: $1299.99
- More info at: www.statebicycle.com
Lotto Dstny Will be Packing its Bags with PRO’s World-Class Accessories
UCI Pro Team Lotto Dstny will have full confidence and trust in their tools having selected PRO BikeGear (PRO) as their supplier of choice to equip its team with PRO’s top-of-the-line saddle bags, multi-tools, tire levers and other accessories. The Belgian-based professional team announce a two-year-deal with PRO today.
“We are very happy with this new partnership. PRO is a big name in the cycling world and their interest in our team is a big honor for us,” said Lotto Dstny’s Chief Business Officer, Yana Seel. “Our riders and mechanics were very enthusiastic about PRO’s products when we announced this partnership to them. They were all positive because they know we are getting the best equipment for our riders and mechanics. In return, we will do everything we can to get the results, providing PRO the visibility it deserves.”
With its first victory on European soil at last weekend’s punchy one-day Clàssica Comunitat Valenciana, the Lotto Dstny squad can be expected to tackle not only all the major races this year, but will also keep themselves, their bike and tools ticking over while out training with a selection of PRO saddle bags – should any of the team riders feel like a mini-bike packing adventure!
Lotto Dstny’s Harry Sweeny is very positive about the new products that will help him get back on the road as soon as possible: “Whether it is a flat or just a small adjustment you need to make on your bike during a ride, the PRO saddlebag, multi-tool, tire levers and pump, will allow you to solve it all on the road. You hope to use the tools as little as possible, but when it is necessary, you can trust PRO to have good and reliable equipment. With PRO, we will have all of that in one convenient saddlebag.”
PRO has been providing world-class products to professional teams at the pinnacle of the sport for over 30 years. Inspired by the performances of the highest-level riders, offering ultra-high-performance tools and accessories, even during the most punishing conditions, comes naturally to the group.
PRO’s Marketing Manager, Alexa Cunningham added: “We’re excited to begin our partnership with Lotto Dstny for the next two seasons. PRO has come on board to support the entire team, where it matters most – from the mechanics right through to the riders themselves – with our pumps, tools and full line-up of high-quality accessories. Each of our products are the result of tireless research, development and are designed to make your life easier.”
“We are looking forward to seeing the riders and mechanics being empowered by our products, whether on the bike during races, during the countless hours spent training, or in the workshop. We want the entire Lotto Dstny Team to get the most out of their bikes and wish them the very best for the season ahead,” she concluded.
- More info at: www.pro-bikegear.com
Lezyne Introducing the Pro Tubeless Kit – $39.99
Engineered for road, mountain, or gravel bikes, the comprehensive Pro Tubeless Kit is the perfect all-in-one tubeless tire repair system.
It features a compact, lightweight aluminum housing that cleanly integrates a mix of two different-size tire plugs, a plug insertion tool, a plug retention tool, a valve core remover, a CO2 inflator, and a micro knife. Combined, this offers the simplest, most portable way to seal a tubeless tire across any tire size/type and cleanly remove any excess plug remnants with the included knife for a smooth ride home.
Additional/replacement plugs are also available separately.
Note: Sealing performance may vary based on puncture size, tire size and tire pressure.
Specs:
- Weight: 50g | 0.1lbs
- Loaded: 135g | 0.3lbs
- Size: 19.6 x 19.6 x 113 mm
- Loaded: 79.6 x 30 x 113 mm
Pro Tubeless Kit:
- Stainless Steel Reamer/Inserter Tool
- Plug Retention Tool
- Stainless Steel Knife
- Presta CO2 Inflator
- 5x 3.5mm and 5x 1.5mm tire plugs
Pro Tubeless Kit Loaded:
- Stainless Steel Reamer/Inserter Tool
- Plug Retention Tool
- Stainless Steel Knife
- Presta CO2 Inflator
- 5x 3.5mm and 5x 1.5mm tire plugs
- 20G CO2 Cartridge
- Mounting Bracket and Strap
- RRP: $39.99
- More info at: ride.lezyne.com
Note: PEZCyclingNews ask that you contact the manufacturers before using any products you see here. Only the manufacturer can provide accurate and complete information on proper / safe use, handling, maintenance and or installation of products as well as any conditional information or product limitations.
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