What's Cool In Road Cycling

PEZ Holiday Gift Guide’17 #5

Gift Guide #5 If you are still struggling to think of a present for that cyclist in your life, here is another great collection of ideas for the holiday season: Bags by Herschel, ProViz LED jacket, the SmarTasca Pocket, wheels from Williams, Giant Propel Advanced Disc, Z LOK Zip Ties, Bell Z20 helmet, Topeak Ratchet Rocket Lite NTX, wash protect & lube kit by Muc-Off, GU Energy gels, three gifts under $50 from XLAB, Kreitler Rollers and the lightweight Sky Hoodie by Primalwear. Something for everyone.

 

Midnight Black Lightweight Sky Hoodie by Primalwear

A lightweight, hooded pullover with unique panel construction, extra-long sleeves and body length provide a comfortable fit on or off the bike. 4-way mechanical stretch offers flexibility and moisture-wicking properties keeps you dry and your core temperature consistent.

$90.00
More info on the Midnight Black Lightweight Sky Hoodie: www.primalwear.com

 

Bell Helmet Z20 MIPS, $230

The Z20 is the result of years spent analyzing how helmets fit, optimizing aerodynamics, reviewing test data, gathering real world feedback, and applying the cumulative knowledge of impact management. The unique progressive layering energy management system utilizes two separate layers of hard shelled EPS foam in addition to Integrated MIPS—enabling improved impact performance via multi-density foam and also deliver a more compact overall shape, sleeker design and maximized ventilation. Thanks to a smart combination of the MIPS layer and retention system, the Z20 sets a new standard in fit and comfort. Superb fit is further optimized with the Float Fit Race retention system, featuring height and finished off with comfortable and sweat-wicking X-Static padding.

$230
More info on the Bell Z20 MIPS.

 

Herschel Britannia Messenger

With the option of being utilized as a briefcase, backpack or shoulder bag, the transformative Trail Britannia messenger is a versatile and durable travel companion. This silhouette features concealed backpack straps, and its functionality makes it perfect for staying organized on the go.

· 210D Nailhead Dobby nylon / CORDURA® reinforced base
· 1,500mm water-resistant coating
· Padded 15″ laptop sleeve
· Zippered internal mesh organizers and key clip
· Two-way waterproof zipper with Prusik cord pulls
· Reinforced webbing carry handles
· Front storage sleeve
· Removable padded webbing shoulder strap
· Stowable contoured backpack straps
· Embroidered dimensions and reflective rubber Trail ID label

$109.99 CDN
Britannia Messenger: herschel.ca/shop/messengers/britannia-messenger

 

Herschel Pop Quiz Messenger

The Herschel Pop Quiz™ Messenger is the quintessential modern shoulder bag with convenient compartments, including a protective laptop sleeve. When the removable cross-body strap is worn over the right shoulder, an optional strap stabilizing clip can be utilized for cycling.

· Signature striped fabric liner
· Padded and fleece lined 15″ laptop sleeve
· Zippered internal mesh organizers and key clip
· External storage sleeve with waterproof zipper detail
· Hook-and-loop main compartment closure
· Clip fastened adjustable webbing straps
· Removable padded webbing shoulder strap and stabilizing clip
· Classic woven label

$94.99 CDN
Pop Quiz Messenger: herschel.ca/shop/messengers/pop-quiz-messenger

 

ProViz Introduces Nightrider LED Cycling Jacket

The Nightrider LED cycling jacket is a new addition to the Nightrider range, and it is the first to incorporate machine washable LED lights into the jacket to aid with visibility at night and early morning.

The jacket has three white LED lights on each forearm, and five red LED lights on the lower back. The lights are powered by a small USB rechargeable battery pack housed in a tailored inside pocket. The battery pack is operated from the outside (so no need to unzip the jacket) with a touch of a button that allows you to choose from three different lighting modes; flash, fast flash and constant.

Aside from the LED lights, the jacket is designed to have a fitted cut, and it is manufactured from comfortable polyester pongee material for breathability and waterproofing. The jacket also has an inside soft-touch mesh for added comfort along with multiple pockets, underarm zipped and shoulder vents, adjustable cuffs, reflective panels and waterproof zippers.

The retail price is $185.00 and is available in men and women’s versions.
More information: provizsports.com/en-us/

 

SmarTasca: Pocket for your Smart Phone

The least expensive, most useful item you can stuff in a stocking.
SmarTasca, “tasca” meaning pocket in Italian, is a pocket for your smartphone. The sturdy, transparent bag has a double sealed closure and allows full use of touch screens. Simple and practical and avail in two sizes, it protects phones from sweat and rain while providing easy access to your phone. Size small was designed for only a smart phone (in a phone case) or a phone without a case + cash and ID. Size medium handles a phone in a protective case + cash, ID and a key. Available Sept 2017 (small) and Oct 2017 (medium).

MSRP: $8.50 (S), $12 (M).

See more here at www.pronetcycling.com/.

 

Williams System 45 Wheels

The System 45 wheels are lightweight, carbon race wheels with an easy to use clincher design. The 45mm deep, full carbon rim, provides an aerodynamic advantage for speed and quick acceleration, while a new proprietary carbon layup offers durability and increased ride quality. The updated rim utilizes a U-shaped design for enhanced aerodynamics while providing more stable and predictable ride. The rims are mated to Williams Cycling Virgo hubs via Sapim CX Ray spokes. The Virgo hubs feature sealed cartridge bearings with an interchangeable cassette body for use with either SRAM/Shimano or Campagnolo cassettes. They are available with either road or disc specific hubs. The disc hubs come standard with 12mm quick release and 15mm thru axle (front) along with 12 x 135, quick release and 12 x 142 thru axle (rear) end caps.

Price: $1,399.00
Link: https://www.williamscycling.com/System-45-Carbon-Clincher-Wheelset_p_212.html

 

Giant Bicycles: Propel Advanced Disc

Developed to meet the demands of Team Sunweb pros seeking every advantage in sprints and solo riding situations, Giant’s all-new aero road machine provides the ultimate winning edge with one of the cleanest, integrated bicycle and component designs ever devised. Re-engineered with Giant’s AeroSystem Shaping technology, which means that every tube shape and angle is optimized for minimal drag, the Advanced SL-grade composite frame is ultra-stiff and super light. Disc-brake technology is integrated into the frame, with flat-mount calipers and thru-axles delivering powerful braking control and superior wheel stiffness.

Starting at $3,700
Website: https://www.giant-bicycles.com/us/bikes-propel-advanced-disc

 

Z LOK / $20 for a two-pak – Upgrade your Zip Ties; Infinite Uses Indoors and Out!

Z LOK is the world’s first armored reusable zip-like tie. Its 40cm (16”) long zip-like tie has a reinforced steel core with durable nylon outer and double-sided ratchet system, allowing the tie to automatically lock when looped in to place and only be unlocked with the release key. Ultra-lightweight and compact, Z LOK offers ultra-convenient added protection from the opportunist thief in a variety of situations including on car racks, for cycle accessories and to protect other outdoor equipment such as skis and snowboards or even children’s scooters and strollers. The Z LOK comes in red, grey and neon lime in a 2-pak and retails for $20; or as a single in blue, orange, purple or black for $12.

www.hiplok.com

 

Topeak Ratchet Rocket Lite NTX

The only thing missing is the kitchen sink! The Topeak Ratchet Rocket Lite NTX has everything you need to fix and make precise adjustments to your bike while on the road. Featuring a fine tooth ratchet mechanism with reverse lever and thumb wheel with Nano TorqBits for ease and torque accuracy in tight spots. Includes magnetic bit holder, hardened steel tools in 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 8mm hex, T10, T25 Torx, #2 Phillips bits and two engineering grade plastic tire levers. The protective case keeps things organized and secure, and even has a pocket to carry glueless patches.

MSRP: $89.95
Information: www.topeak.com/

 

Wash Protect & Lube Kit by Muc Off

The Wash Protect & Lube Kit by Muc-Off is the perfect starter gift for anyone with a new found passion for cycling. Including the Nanotech Bike Cleaner, MO-94 and Biodegradable Wet Lube this kit introduces the fundamentals of good bicycle maintenance “clean, protect and lube.”

£16.49
More info on the Wash Protect & Lube Kit

 

GU Energy Gels

GU recently released several new tasty stocking stuffer-worthy Energy Gel flavors including Toasted Marshmallow, Campfire S’mores and Cola Me-Happy. Sales from the Campfire S’mores flavor benefit The Conservation Alliance’s Public Lands Defense Fund, and Cola Me-Happy is part of the new GU Small Batch Collection.

$12/8 gels, $36/24 gels
GU Energy website HERE.

 

3 Must-Have, Under $50 Gifts to Make for a Happy Cyclist!
As hard as it is to believe, the holidays are soon upon us! We’ve picked out some brand new, under $50 XLAB goodies sure to make for one happy cyclist!

1) From the experts in bike hydration – a new handlebar hydration option for no matter how you ride! Unlike others out on he market – this one isn’t just for aerobars. Ditch the sweaty Camelbak – the Hydroblade also mounts on MTB or road bikes! https://xlab-usa.com/hydroblade

2) No more fussing with where to put oversized smartphones. New Rocket Pocket XL Plus fits those big, nearly cookiesheet-sized phones like the iPhone 7 Plus, Google Pixel XL or Samsung Galaxy S8 plus) AND 6-8 energy gels or bars. It’s also insulated, so no threat of an overheated, overworked phone on those extra hot days! https://xlab-usa.com/rocket-pocket-xl-plus

3) Also debuting – the Bike Shuttle! This nifty device makes bike ownership for any kind of cyclist all the more easier. It’s a rolling bike stand that automatically adjusts to a wide range of tire widths, keeping your bike steady and upright for washing, chain lubrication, inflating tires or installing new accessories. https://xlab-usa.com/bike-shuttle

 

Kreitler Rollers

Ride all winter long and improve your form, efficiency and strength. Incorporating rollers into your training, or using them for race warmups, will pay dividends in your riding. Kreitler Rollers are machined to perfect concentricity, for a silky-smooth ride and carry a lifetime warranty. Free shipping in the U.S. and Canada!

More at the kreitler.com website.

 

 


If you missed the previous ‘PEZ Gift Guides’, check them out here: #1, #2, #3 and #4.

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