Gear Break: New Bikes, Clothing, Saddles and Boxes
What's new this week!
Gear Break: GORE C5 Thermo jersey and bib tights, Canyon’s show their new Aeroad, Repente’s Artax GL gravel saddle, Litespeed Titanium all-new Watia gravel bike, Rapha and Palace Skateboards EF Pro Cycling kit and a bike box by BikeFlights.
GORE C5 Thermo Jersey and Bib Tights+
At least in more northern latitudes, summer is in the rearview mirror and fall will probably be over before you know it. So it’s not too early to start thinking about colder temps and having to bundle up. In terms of cold weather kit, GORE is about as good as it gets.
GORE C5 Thermo Jersey – $130
An aero fit jersey for cold weather with thermal fabric in the main torso to protect and insulate your core, with a lighter version in the lower part of the sleeves and side panels. Three rear pockets plus a zipper pocket securely hold your ride essentials. A functional cold weather jersey with clean, sophisticated look for dedicated roadies.
GORE C5 Thermo Bib Tights+ – $170
Compacting thermal bib tights with DWR (Durable Water Repellant, an ultra-thin durable polymer applied to the outermost fabric layer that reduces the surface tension of the fabric, so that water simply rolls off) and WINDSTOPPER fabric along the groin protect from cold and road spray while insulating and supporting your muscles. A breathable WINDSTOPPER cup offers additional wind and spray protection while creating space. For riders tackling endurance rides in harsh conditions.
PEZ Tester Chuck Peña Says:
It’s still too early to actually ride in truly cold weather kit, but I had a chance to wear (not ride) this kit at night when the temps have dropped down to the 40s(F) just to see how it feels and fits. The C5 Thermo Jersey is form fitting (no flapping in the wind), not that bulky, definitely felt very insulating, and the thermal fabric was very soft against my skin. In moderately cold weather you could probably wear this jersey with a sleeveless baselayer and be warm enough. But for winter riding, I would wear a long-sleeve baselayer. In either case, it would be a GORE WINDSTOPPER base layer to ward off windchill. If GORE had made the jersey with their WINDSTOPPER fabric in the front of the jersey, it would be about as perfect as perfect could get.
If you know it’s going to be cold all day (especially if it’s overcast with some wind), the C5 Thermo Bib Tights+ will certainly keep your legs warm (or at least warm enough). Being thermal, they have a brushed fabric on the inside that’s soft against skin. The seams for all the panels (if I counted correctly, minus the bib upper section there are 12 panels) are flat stitched to help prevent chafing. WINDSTOPPER in key areas will help keep the “important bits” from windchill. And the ADVANCED seat insert aka chamois made by Elastic Interface exclusively for GORE is the same as in the C5 Cancellara bib shorts that I’ve logged hundreds and hundreds of miles in. What makes the C5 Thermo Bib Tights+ so great is not having to bundle up by wearing shorts/bibs under a pair of tights.
From a style standpoint, I like that the jersey and tights share a dot pattern graphic
I can’t say that I’m looking forward to winter, but the GORE C5 Thermo Jersey and Bib Tights+ will certainly make cold weather riding more comfortable and bearable.
● Check prices on the Gore C5 Thermo Jacket here
Aerodynamic Innovation from Canyon Bicycles
Since its launch in July 2014, the previous Canyon Aeroad delivered an unprecedented combination of aerodynamics, comfort, stiffness, lightness – all built around an aggressive geometry. In short, it was one of the most complete road bikes ever made. And yet, the new Aeroad’s performance figures eclipse it in every way. It’s up to 7.4 watts faster. Up to 170 g lighter. Up to 14% stiffer.
At the leading edge of the new Aeroad CF SLX and Aeroad CFR is a revolutionary, all-new CP0018 Aerocockpit, which features 15 mm of height adjustability without the need to alter the steerer tube length. In addition, the CP0018 is also width-adjustable up to 20 mm wider or narrower from the standard width as delivered. This unique feature, in addition to bike fit benefits, offers another advantage: to pack the new Aeroad ready for travel, the two cockpit ends can simply be folded down with no need to remove the handlebar.
What’s more, with their state-of-the-art design, the Aeroad CF SLX and CFR also have completely integrated cables and wires. The Aeroad CF SL features the previous generation Aeroad cockpit while adding frame size-specific wheel sizing: sizes 2XS and the CF SL-exclusive 3XS roll on 650B wheels, so smaller riders also benefit from the Aeroad’s same outstanding riding dynamics. The Aeroad CF SLX and CFR feature 700C wheels across all sizes, up to the largest size, 2XL. And thanks to chainstays that are 5 mm shorter, and a combination of a 25 mm front and 28 mm rear tyre, the new Aeroad is even more agile. In terms of geometry, all three Aeroad platforms are identical.
Canyon USA will carry seven models of the new Aeroad:
● Aeroad CF SL 7 Disc $3,999.00 Shimano 105, Reynolds AR 58/62 DB
● Aeroad CF SL 8 Disc $4,399.00 Shimano Ultegra, Reynolds AR 58/62 DB
● Aeroad CF SLX 8 Disc Di2 $5,999.00 Shimano Ultegra Di2, DT Swiss ARC1400 Dicut DB 62
● Aeroad CF SLX 8 Disc AXS $5,999.00 SRAM Force eTap AXS, DT Swiss ARC1400 Dicut DB 62
● Aeroad CFR Disc Di2 $9,000.00 Shimano Dura Ace Di2 including Power Meter, DT SWISS ARC1100 Dicut DB 62
● Aeroad CFR Disc AXS $9,000.00 SRAM RED eTap AXS including Power Meter, DT SWISS ARC1100 Dicut DB 62
● More information at: https://www.canyon.com
Repente: Artax GL, The New Saddle for Gravel Cycling
Anatomical shape, thick padding, non-slip coating, curved tip profile: Repente presents the saddle developed with the pro Gravel riders.
A new addition to the Repente range, ARTAX GL is the saddle created to meet the specific needs of Gravel riding.
The first design step was studying the cyclists’ positions in the saddle, the most typical Gravel cycling settings, the bikes’ components and the geometry of the frames. Repente also relied on the experience of today’s top specialist athletes in this field. The Marostica-based company is the official sponsor of the Rodeolabs Pro Gravel Team, winner of several competitions in the USA.
All this know-how and expertise led to designing Artax GL – a saddle with all the requirements to make gravel bikers happy, and not only them probably.
The shaping of the support in the rear part of the saddle is designed to minimise high pressure points on the ischial bones. Pressure relief in the perineal area is guaranteed by the anatomical channel and the smooth profile of the saddle.
The padding is one of Artax GL’s strong points: made of Eva, a reactive and extremely light material, it has been made thicker in the most delicate support points to maximise comfort even on bumpy terrain, for both cyclists who prefer a more upright sitting position and cyclists who often use the lower part of the handlebars. Thanks to the curved tip profile, cyclists can pedal standing up and then go back to a sitting position seamlessly.
The proprietary RLS (Repente Locking System) allows the saddle cover to be easily replaced.
The Artax GL structure is built using LCF (Long Carbon Fibers) technology, which makes the saddle just rigid enough and non-deformable over time. The “noble polymer” PA12 is made lighter and high-performing by longitudinally oriented long carbon fibres.
The 9×7 mm differential section rail is made of UD carbon fibre. To cover the Repente saddle, a special non-slip material has been chosen, which is just as effective when wet.
Artax GL weighs in at 160-165 grams.
The main differences compared to Prime, the closest model in the range, are a «semi-flat» instead of a «round» seat, a thicker padding layer and the square-shaped cross section of the tip.
Artax GL is available in black and burgundy, with a graphic theme that reminds of the typical settings of off-road cycling. The recommended price is 145 euro.
● COATING Water-based microfiber
● FOAM PADDING Super lightweight EVA
● PADDING SUPPORT PA12 Carbon Reinforced
● SUPPORT STRUCTURE PA12 Long Carbon Fiber (LCF)
● RAIL UD Carbon Fiber T700
● DIMENSIONS 275 mm x 132 mm
● WEIGHT (± 5%) 165 g (5,82 oz)
● GRAPHICS Black Mud, Red Mud
● More at: www.sellerepente.com/en
Litespeed Titanium Delivers True Gravel Versatility with All-New Watia
Litespeed unveiled the new Watia, bringing a new level of versatility—and innovative technical advances in titanium—to the ever-evolving gravel riding category.
“The explosion of gravel excitement has been a healthy time both personally and professionally. What we’re expecting from our bikes has created a massive acceleration in design,” said Watia product manager and Litespeed design engineer Brad DeVaney. “Whether we focus on tube specification, component compatibility, geometry, position capability, or styling, Watia represents the best combination of features that no other brand has conceived or accomplished.”
The new Watia answers the key demands of a modern gravel bike: stable handling, wide tire clearance, and comfort for the long day. The centerpiece is the full 3AL/2.5V titanium frame, each tube selected and cold-worked to deliver targeted ride experience; stiffness where wanted, and comfortable flex and give where needed. A size medium frame weighs 1,565g.
Whether it’s hilly, flat, groomed fireroad or rocky singletrack, the new Watia is fully outfitted for anything your day brings you. Backroad exploration with friends, epic 200-mile race-day escapades, or anything in between, the Watia is ready. With three sets of bottle bosses and ultra-wide tire clearance to fit up to 45mm tires on 700c wheels (or 53mm on 650b wheels), there’s no trail the Watia can’t tame.
Options abound on the Watia, with choice of internal or external cable routing, as well as upgrade options that include a T47 threaded bottom bracket, 650b wheelset options and plenty of storage and fender mounts. The Watia will be available in sizes small through extra large, with extra small to be added to the range.
Features of the Watia include:
● Full 3AL/2.5V titanium frame, meticulously shaped and cold-worked to optimize performance
● Geometry tailored to deliver a nimble, road-like feel, with the durability and comfort that only titanium can deliver
● Modern tire clearance capability, with clearance up to 45mm on 700c wheels, and 53mm on 650b wheels
● Full internal cable routing for a quiet, clean presentation. An external cable routing option is also available
● Three bottle mounts are standard, allowing for full fueling and storage capacity for long days and big expeditions
● Wheel choice versatility, with 700c or 650b compatibility
● A threaded T47 bottom bracket upgrade option available
The Watia is handcrafted at American Bicycle Group’s 48,000 sq. ft. facility in Chattanooga, Tenn. Its premium build, the Watia GRX Di2 ($5,775) is built with Shimano GRX 810 Di2 and features internal cable routing, with Watia’s most budget-minded build ($3,500) featuring external cable routing and trimmed with a Shimano GRX 400 mechanical groupset. All build options of the Watia can be configured and ordered direct online at Litespeed.com, or special ordered through Litespeed’s global network of specialty retailers.
Like all Litespeed models, the Watia is rider-friendly when it comes to shipping, assembly and mechanical service. When shipped, the bike comes 90% assembled and takes just a few minutes to assemble. All a rider needs is a basic knowledge of bike mechanics and two sizes of Allen wrenches. At the bottom of the Litespeed homepage, there are home bike assembly videos to aid in the process.
Page links to each Watia model can be found below:
● Watia Internal Routing
● Watia External Routing
● Watia Frameset Internal Routing
● Watia Frameset External Routing
● More information: litespeed.com.
Rapha and Palace Skateboards Debut Distinct EF Pro Cycling Kit at 2020 Giro d’Italia
The team will take on Italy’s Grand Tour with a switch out team kit that is bound to turn heads; collection to also include matching casual wear, full quiver of Cannondale race bikes, helmets and eyewear from POC.
Rapha and Palace Skateboards have collaborated to create a capsule collection to be worn by the WorldTour team EF Pro Cycling at this year’s Giro d’Italia. In addition, the team’s livery will receive a complete overhaul that will see the entire fleet of Cannondale race bikes and POC helmets and eyewear decked out with a distinct design from Palace.
In 2019, Rapha returned to the men’s WorldTour as a partner to the EF Pro Cycling team with a plan to disrupt the status quo. In a sport renowned for its lengthy rule book and chaotic calendar, we’ve shone a light on new faces, and unorthodox races. But for a truly fresh perspective on the sport, we’ve teamed up with a company that is alien to cycling’s aesthetic, oblivious to its origins, and untrained in its traditions.
Instead of mirroring the pink of the race’s maglia rosa, the switch out kit features a fearless design that might not be steeped in cycling history but will now form a part of it. Rapha and its designs regularly celebrate the sport and cycling history whilst Palace is disruptive, witty and always surprising; authentically straddling the worlds of high fashion, streetwear and core skate. The result of the collaboration is a team kit quite unlike any other seen in the peloton so far. Embracing the breakaway attitude, Swedish protection pioneers POC will enhance the switch out look with bespoke helmets and eyewear, including a unique edition of the groundbreaking Tempor helmet.
Rapha and Palace have created something altogether different that is sure to stand out in the peloton. The team kit will include the Pro Team Aero Jersey and Pro Team Bib Shorts II as well as special edition socks, caps and musettes. All of these items will be available in very limited numbers, along with men’s and women’s versions of the ever-popular Pro Team Training Jersey, and women’s version of the Pro Team Bib Shorts and Pro Team Aero Jersey.
In a race that features a good mix of stages and includes three time trials, the riders will be seen aboard each of Cannondale’s three elite level race bikes: the SuperSix EVO, the SystemSix, and the SuperSlice TT bike. Each frame features a graphic design complete with bright logos and unique graphic elements that seamlessly integrate with the Rapha and Palace Skateboard capsule collection.
Off the bike, there is a range of team edition casual wear from Palace, which will be worn by the team at the Giro and available online alongside the limited edition team kit. The off-bike collection includes T-shirt, Long Sleeve T-shirt, Cap, Hoodie, Oxford Shirt and Palace GORE-TEX Jacket.
Available in extremely limited quantities, every piece in the Rapha + Palace clothing and accessories collection will be released on the 9th October, with priority access for members of the Rapha Cycling Club who joined on or before Sunday, 4th October.
To learn more about the Rapha and Palace collaboration visit www.rapha.cc. For further information on Cannondale’s Giro d’Italia line-up visit www.cannondale.com.
BikeFlights.com Introduces New Reusable Bike Box, A Pro-Level Solution for Protecting Bikes in Transit
Drawing from 11 years of experience shipping bicycles to every corner of the world, the bicycle shipping experts at BikeFlights.com have developed an entirely new, reusable bike box system. The BikeFlights Bike Box is a collapsible, cardboard-based shipping case that integrates the protective benefits of high-end shipping cases into a lower cost and lower-waste package.
Riders around the world trust BikeFlights.com for all their bike shipping needs. While serving more than 800,000 cyclists, BikeFlights.com has analyzed the reliability of various bike boxes and cases, giving them unique insight when it came time to redevelop their own packaging solution.
Designed and rigorously tested to the Amazon ISTA 6A standard, the Bike Box offers confidence-inspiring levels of protection for your bike during shipping. It has been engineered to withstand multiple drops of 18 inches and 36 inches, a horizontal compression force up to 229 pounds, a vertical compression force up to 1,732 pounds and sustained vibration while loaded to up to 300 pounds.
To minimize environmental impact, the box has been designed for multiple uses, and you can pack it back down to its original size for efficient storage between uses. Every piece of the box’s package becomes part of the bike box when built, so there is no packaging waste, and the entire box is recyclable once you’re finished with it.
“We’re excited to take the knowledge we’ve gained over the years and apply it to creating a one-of-a-kind bike box system,” said BikeFlights.com President William Alcorn. “There’s nothing else that offers comparable protection, value and reusability, and we’ve designed the system to make it easy to pack, saving time for everyone.”
The team at BikeFlights.com is working to make shipping bicycles and gear the easiest part of going to ride in a new place or shipping a bike to a new owner. As part of this, they will be shipping the BikeFlights Bike Box from three separate warehouses across the US. This ensures most customers will be able to receive their BikeFlights Bike Box within 1-2 business days of ordering.
BikeFlights Bike Box Details:
Box Assembly Video https://youtu.be/wXBIJ6cHod0
How to pack a BikeFlights Bike Box Large https://youtu.be/1NGepNxJs1s
Easy To Assemble
Simple To Pack Your Bike
Reusable Design For Multiple Shipments
Disassembles For Easy Storage Between Uses
MSRP $149.95 (Large)
https://shop.bikeflights.com/new-bikeflights-large-box.html
MSRP $119.95 (Medium)
https://shop.bikeflights.com/new-bikeflights-med-box.html
FREE 2-Day Shipping To Lower 48 States
Large Box Kit Includes:
● 1 – Top tray
● 1 – Bottom tray
● 1 – Right side panel
● 1 – Left side panel
● 2 – Slotted end panels
● 8 – BClips
● 2 – Blue axle covers (for front wheel)
● 2 – Paper tube axle spacers (100mm, 110mm)
● 1 – Front axle foam block
● 1 – Downtube foam yoke
● 4 – Bungees
● 1 – Clear parts bag (8.5x11ish)
● 1 – BikeFlights sticker or magnet
Medium Box Kit Includes:
● 1 – Top tray
● 1 – Bottom tray
● 1 – Right side panel
● 1 – Left side panel
● 2 – Slotted end panels
● 8 – BClips
● 2 – Blue axle covers (for front wheel)
● 6 – Paper tube axle spacers (100mm, 110mm, 130mm ,135mm, 142mm and 148mm)
● 4 – Bungees
● 1 – Clear parts bag (8.5x11ish)
● 1 – BikeFlights Sticker or magnet
Sizes:
Large: 62 x 13 x 33” when assembled
Medium: 45 x 13x 29” when assembled
Large: 62 x 13 x 7” as shipped
Medium: 45 x 13 x 7” as shipped
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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