Mud-shedding pedals, an extended coverage helmet and layering system from Albion
We've rounded up all of our coolest content and new products for you
The rain has been washing away our hopes of an extended summer but that doesn't stop us from riding, right? As usual, we've got some cool things to show you including some of the big news stories, features and reviews that topped our ratings this week.
- Best mountain bikes for under £1000 in 2022
- Hutchinson Tundra Hardskin gravel tyre review
- Team ORCC EP.08: National enduro, FKT's and a new graveller
If you don't already know, it's probably worth booking some tickets to Scotland as next year's mega 2023 UCI World Championships full schedule has been released. It's going to be 11 days of non-stop cycling action - something none of us want to miss.
And keepiung with the racing theme - Gee Atherton will be returning to the trails this weekend at the Red Bull Hardline.
There's also been a bunch of exciting launches (some that we cannot talk about yet) with BMC bringing out its first gravel race bike. Specialized's Hillbilly tyres have been updated, Trek has overhauled its much-loved Fuel EX and Santa Cruz brought out the new 5010 (and Handy MacAskill took the mini version of it onto the trails, too).
For weekend reads we recommend the Mountain bike tyre inserts - everything you need to know and Komoot vs Strava - which cycling app is best for you? Remember to also check out our reviews page for all the new pieces we've published recently.
Now, let's get to the this week's Five Cool Things.
Alpina Ram Q-Lite
£120
The sunniest of days might be behind us but the eyes still need protection. These specs are simply lighter and better, don't fog up and stay in place, Alpina claims. Made with performance in mind, they feature a mirrored lens that reflects harmful infrared rays
and increases the contrast. The nose pads are malleable and the frame has a rubber-coated headband, which ensures that the sports glasses sit comfortably and securely.
Joe's Tubeless Sealant
£5 - £20
Last week we had the Lifeline sealant drop in for testing and this week we got our hands on some Joe's tubeless sealant. This means only one thing - we can soon tell you which one of these is the best tubeless sealant.
We have got two versions of Joe's sealant; the Super Sealant and Joe's Elite Racer sealant. Both are latex-based sealants and the Racer version is specifically targeted at MTB racers.
They claim to seal holes up to 6mm and are suitable for use with CO2 and in a wide range of temperatures. Both versions also come in a range of sizes suitable for travel and workshop use.
> Buy now: Joe's No Flats Super Sealant from Amazon for £21
Albion Zoe Layering System
£185 and £260
2022 albion zoa system 5ct.jpg, by Liam Mercer
This one is a pretty exciting collection of weather-proof kit from Albion. The company has collaborated with fabric manufacturer Pertex to create an insulated jacket, raincoat and 'burner', and Matt Page is about to test these on a bikepacking trip in Scotland - and will put them through their paces.
Pertex’s Shield Air fabric isn't something we've seen cycling brands use before, so it will be interesting to see how the breathable three-layer material fares in intense activity.
The set Matt has, includes the Zoa Insulated Jacket and Zoa Rain Shell. Both feature extensively recycled materials and feature a number of technical details for cyclists and those who spend time outdoors. The Insulated Jacket is designed to be outer or mid-layer on and off the bike, and the Zoa Rain Shell is a waterproof shell jacket with an air permeable nanofibre membrane to provide extremely breathable and durable waterproof protection.
Alpina Rootage Evo
£130
Another product from Alpina - the brand says this lid is at home on the trail, on a freeride or at the bike park. The over-ear helmet construction provides significantly more safety for side impact than a half-shell helmet and the EPP (Expanded polystyrene) used on the ears doesn’t lose its protective effect even if it gets bumped a few times, while the fixed visor will aim ventilation. The Rootage Evo is the first bike jet helmet with a size adjustment system and also allows the rider to use a neck brace.
> Buy now: Alpina Rootage Evo Enduro MTB Cycling Helmet from Tredz for £84.99
TIME Atac XC 8 pedals
£151
2022 time atax xc pedal 5ct.jpg, by Liam Mercer
TIME, the known pedal brand now owned by SRAM, has made the XC 8 pedals for competitive riders. Their carbon body and hollow steel axle mean it's a light package (143g a pair) and the exclusive clipping system is easy to navigate, while also allowing natural movement of the foot. TIME says the pedals have great mud clearance, which is handy for winter riding.
> Buy now: Time Atac XC8 CARBON MTB Pedals from Merlin Cycles for £119.99
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