Holiday Gift Guide #9: Scott Glasses, Fizik Shoes, Küat Rack, Lezyne GPS, ArmaUrto, Chrome Industries, Silca, Panaracer Castelli & Calfee
The final 'Holiday Gift Guide' for 2020
Holiday Gift Guide #9: Last minute shop, or spend some money on yourself: Scott Shield glasses, fi’zi:k Vento Infinito Knit Carbon 2 shoes, Küat Transfer Rack gets the v2 upgrade, Lezyne Macro Easy GPS, Chrome Industries Brooklyn cycling cap, ArmaUrto Impact pro base layer, Silca Secret Chain Blend, Panaracer GravelKing slick tires, Castelli Perfetto Light glove and Calfee bottle cage. Have a great holiday.
You can see Gift Guide #1 HERE, Gift Guide #2 HERE, Gift Guide #3 HERE, Gift Guide #4 HERE, the Best BOOKS Gift Guide HERE, Gift Guide #6 HERE, Gift Guide #7 HERE and Gift Guide #8 HERE.
SCOTT SHIELD Glasses – US$120 at Amazon
Scott set the bar wide when the current trend of oversized sunglasses swept the pro peloton in the past couple of seasons. But fashion knows no boundaries, and in this case, the range of functionality is pretty wide too.
Make no mistake, these are full coverage shades with a larger surface than at least 5 other oversized models I’ve compared ’em to. The lenses are both wide and tall, and are ideal for riders who prefer lots of coverage.
In spite of the big lens surface, I found these vent well – with no unusual issues of fogging up. I’d consider my own face shape and size normal for an adult male,
The frameless design features a curved lens to smoothly wrap around the face, offering good coverage from aside to side, and top to bottom. I measured the lens at 7.25 inches (18.5cm) following the circumference of the front outer edge, vs the 100% Hypercraft the I reviewed here, which measured 17cm (6.75 inches) on the same dimension.
Use your fingers to bend the nose piece to adjust the fit, and those little grippers are mini Scott logos.
Like any pice of gear designed for your person, you’ll need to try ’em to ensure proper fit, and while Scott’s website claims a “Specifically designed frame to fit well with helmets that have added coverage around temple area”, my testers fit well with both the Scott Centric helmet, and a POC Ventral Air Spin.
One problem I had was a broken frame – which snapped off on my fingers when trying to change the lens. This was surprising to say the least, and rendered the glasses useless.
● More info at the Scott website
● Shop link at Amazon here
fi’zi:k Vento Infinito Knit Carbon 2 Shoes – €380
This latest version of the Infinito R1 features a knitted construction has a incredible ventilation and is ultra-lightweight with all the Fizik performance technologies.
Refined Knitted Upper
While still providing all the advanced features race-tested with pro-peloton athletes, the latest version of the Infinito Knit features a refined knitted construction that seamlessly integrates superior ventilation throughout the upper, further streamlined by stripping away more weight than ever before. An incredibly breathable knitted mesh base blends with targeted knitted areas of heat-fused TPU yarn to create foot support where athletes need it most. This guarantees effective power transfer to the pedals with the same support and pedaling efficiency as that of a traditionally built cycling shoe.
Volume Control System
The Volume Control system allows for differentiated fit adjustments for the instep and forefoot areas–the shape and volume of which can vary widely between riders. Featuring the latest Li2 BOA® Fit System platform with a smaller dial diameter and lower, more aerodynamic profile, cyclists can fine tune the fit to their unique foot shape, ensuring maximum performance without compromising on comfort.
Support and Comfort
A dedicated piece of the shoe’s upper wraps around the plantar arch and can be precisely adjusted for a perfect fit and improved support of the plantar fascia using the latest Li2 BOA® Platform. The volume of the forefoot area can be controlled via the Infinito, a signature fit-configuration feature. The Infinito balances tension and further eliminates pressure hot spots by using BOA® textile lace guides. This fit system acts across a larger area of the shoe’s upper, pulling the eyelets inwards consistently from all directions for a more supportive and comfortable fit.
R2 Carbon Outsole
The updated Infinito also features an entirely new outsole with an engineered carbon fibre layup that saves weight and delivers increased stiffness. With a stiffness index rating of 10, this outsole is the stiffest in the fizik range. A wide vent inlet and deep internal channelling provide a cooling airflow, aiding in temperature regulation. The cleat positioning is set slightly further back compared to traditional settings to optimize pedaling efficiency and reduce knee compression, especially well-suited to very aggressive, forward aero positions.
As tested by PEZ, Alastair Hamilton says:
The first impression is the color and the look of the material of the upper part of the shoes. Stunning I would say. The second thing is the weight and the stiffness of the sole. How do they feel on? The upper fits your foot like a glove, you know what I mean. The knit material hugs your foot and this is helped by the BOA Li2 fastners, which are now used on all the best cycling shoes. The two BOAs pull the shoe comfortably round your foot, the top BOA is attached to a wide strap from the insole and across the foot, which makes you feel very secure. I’ve only had a short time to try them out, but so far they are the best cycling shoes I’ve ever had. There are a lot of other great points, so there will be a more in-depth review on PEZ soon.
Technologies/Specifications:
● Knit: knitted upper
● Li2 Dual Zone BOA Fit System configuration
● R2 carbon outsole: full carbon unidirectional, stiffness index 10
● Weight: 225g (size 42 – 1/2 pair)
● Sizes: 36-48 (37 to 47 also in half sizes)
● Vento: performance racing series designed in collaboration with professional cyclists
● Intended use: road racing
● MSRP: €380
● More information at: www.fizik.com
The Popular KÜAT Transfer Rack Gets the v2 Upgrade
The Transfer v2 Boasts Increased Capability to Handle Larger Variety of Bike Sizes and a More Robust Hitch Design, Among Other Upgrades.
Küat’s most popular rack, the Transfer received some serious upgrades to move it into the Version 2 or v2 family of bike racks. The new Transfer v2 will continue to come in 1, 2 3-bike options with improved modular add-on ability for all three. The 3-bike even allows a one-bike add-on to carry 4 bikes.
While maintaining a simple, but effective and burly design, the Transfer v2 boasts a number of upgrades including:
● More robust hitch design for enhanced stability in tow
● Tamper-resistant hitch security
● Semi-integrated bike cable lock system
● Larger wheelbase with the capability to fit a bike up to 50” in length
● Holds wheel sizes from 18” to 29”, previously 20” to 29”
● Holds tire widths up to 5” with accessory strap, previously 4.5” as well as better hook clearance for loading fat bikes
● All 2” options will be equipped with a flatlock cam for 2″, and the 1.25” will be equipped with a ball cam
● Automotive-grade 750 – hour salt spray hardware
● Available in Ballistic Black Power with Black Anodized accents
● Dedicated 2” hitch version in the 2 bike configuration can be directly mounted on campers, recreational vehicles, or trailers with CHASSIS MOUNTED RECEIVERS ONLY.
Küat president and co-founder Luke Kuschmeader said this rack reaches across the spectrum for cyclists from beginners to advanced and roadies to mountain bikers and fat bikers.
“We see this rack in use by serious cyclists who want a bike rack that delivers, is lightweight and can still stand up against the most grueling settings. Similarly a more beginner cyclist likes the simplicity of this rack and ability to carry bikes from all sizes and disciplines. We love that we can hit so many types of riders with this product,” said Kuschmeader.
The 1, 2 and 3-bike option will come with the ability to add on one bike additions to increase carrying capacity.
● Transfer v2 1-bike – (with the 1.25” hitch with a 2” adaptor) will accept a 1-bike add-on to make a 2-bike rack ($249)
● Transfer v2 1-bike Add-On. ($129)
● Transfer v2 2-bike – 2” hitch will accept a one bike add-on to make a 3-bike rack. ($349)
● Transfer v2 3-bike – 2” hitch will accept a one bike add-on to make a 4-bike rack. ($449)
● Transfer v2 2-bike – (with the 1.25” and 2” in one) but no 1-bike add-on available. ($349)
● For more information visit Kuatracks.com.
LEZYNE Macro Easy GPS – $79.99
Developed for easy use and setup, the Macro Easy GPS is perfect for any rider that just wants to record a ride and have the option to view his or her stats afterwards. No complicated setup, no messing with phone apps and no excessive data fields that are only used by serious athletes. It has full GPS recording capabilities, with the option of connecting to Bluetooth compatible heart rate sensors and/or speed/cadence sensors. Its impressive 28-hour battery runtime means minimal charging and plenty of riding. The Macro Easy GPS is everything you need, and nothing you don’t.
• MSRP: $79.99
• More info at: ride.lezyne.comuters
CHROME INDUSTRIES Flips the Look of the Timeless BROOKLYN Cycling Cap With a Fresh Colorway
The Chrome x Brooklyn Cycling Cap
Chrome Industries’ fresh take on the Brooklyn Cycling Cap meshes their signature San Francisco street style with the most iconic version of this classic form.
Designed in 1973 for the Brooklyn Cycling Team, the premier bike racing team of the decade, the Brooklyn Cap gained iconic status from Spike Lee’s commercial work with Michael Jordan on campaigns for Air Jordans.
This was the hat that first brought together the worlds of cycling and streetwear. Now Chrome is honoring this design that exists at the junction of riders, creators and streetwear pioneers with their unique take.
For the new Chrome x Brooklyn cycling cap, Chrome did what they do; murdered it out and added reflective hits. The Chrome x Brooklyn cap stays true to both Chrome’s messenger roots and the classic design to create an unmistakable look capturing the genesis, peak and rebirth of this style at the same time.
Made in Italy from a woven cotton-poly blend, the Chrome x Brooklyn cycling cap can be worn on its own or under a helmet to block the sun and keep the sweat at bay.
Features:
• Limited edition, iconic cycling cap emblazoned with the Chrome logo
• Reflective logo and racing stripes for visibility in low light
• One Size Fits All
• Made in Italy
• 65% Polyester, 35% Cotton
• Colorway: Black Reflective
• Limited edition, iconic cycling cap emblazoned with the Chrome logo
• MSRP: $30
• Product Page
ARMAURTO Impact Pro Base Layer
Built around a fast-wicking and highly breathable 3⁄4 length sleeve, the Impact Pro Base Layer incorporates strategically placed super lightweight, flexible and machine washable ARMA padding, rated to EN1621 motorcycle protection standard should the worst happen out on the road or trails. The ARMA pads absorb and dissipate 80% of the impact energy reducing the energy transmitted to the body and ultimately the risk of an injury in the event of an accident or fall.
• More info at: armaurto.com
• RRP – £99
SILCA Secret Chain Blend
SILCA Secret Chain Blend (Hot Wax) brings all of the super speed and silence of our Super Secret Chain Lube in a hot-melt wax-dipped chain. Secret Chain Blend also utilizes the world’s fastest, most lubricious additive, nano-scale Tungsten Di-Sulfide. NanoPlatelet WS2 has less than 1/3 the dynamic coefficient of friction of PTFE and 1/4 that of Molybdenum Disulfide (MoS2). The best part of this product is the submergible pouch! Don’t want to dedicate a crock pot to hot-waxing your chain? Simply put the chain in the bag and immerse in hot water!
What is it? SILCA Secret Chain Blend (Hot Wax) brings all of the super speed and silence of our Super Secret Chain Lube in a hot-melt wax-dipped chain. Secret Chain Blend also utilizes the world’s fastest, most lubricious additive, nano-scale Tungsten Di-Sulfide. NanoPlatelet WS2 has less than 1/3 the dynamic coefficie.
• More info at: silca.cc
PANARACER GravelKing Slicks
A gravel tire for roadies:
For all condition riding, try the Panaracer GravelKing Slicks. A go-anywhere tire, the GravelKing Slicks are made of a natural rubber compound with a puncture protection breaker and a special low rolling resistance casing. This tire can handle gravel and dirt, rough and smooth pavement, snow and sand or any combination thereof. A wide variety of width and sizes (and colors!) are available ranging from 700 x 26 to 650b x 1.9. All tires 32mm wide and larger are Tubeless Compatible, too.
● MSRP: $49.99
● More info at: www.panaracer.com
CASTELLI PERFETTO Light Glove – $59.99
Cool Weather or Changing Conditions
The idea behind this glove is full GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ WINDSTOPPER® wind and water protection in the thinnest possible package. It’s great for those cool days when you need to keep the wind off but don’t need insulation, or those days with changing conditions such as a cold start or long alpine descents. Minimal seaming keeps the glove comfortable on the hand, while silicone grip zones make sure you’re in control at all times.
The Perfetto Light Glove is super versatile, and its thermoformed single-seam construction results in a glove that’s very lightweight, packable, windproof, slim fitting and extremely comfortable.
● Price: $59.99
● More info at: www.castelli-cycling.com
CALFEE Bottle Cage – $75-$99
Keeping to the Calfee mantra of form-follows-function, our cages are constructed to keep your bottles secure. Period. A sleek, elegant design, mixed with our classic style.
No need to worry about losing bottles or struggling to insert or remove your bottle with our cage. Our cages are 100% made and shaped start-to-finish by hand in our workshop to bring you a minimalist weight (45g) plus a non-marring surface to preserve the look of your bottles. Looking for a unique upgrade for your ride and stand out from the crowd? Your search is over.
● More info at: https://calfeedesign.com/product/calfee-carbon-cage/
● Price: $75 nude; $99 clear coat.
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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