As a cyclist, the search for newer and better gear is constant — there's always something else out there. Premes, Picks, Promos will highlight both the next big thing and the sleeper deal.
As we approach the end of the year, I've been reflecting upon my favorite bits of gear from the past 12 months. Jumping into cyclocross had me checking out a lot of different stuff, which was interesting and semi-costly. In the coming weeks, we'll have a closer look at a pair of options for winter riding boots — Sidi and Shimano — as well as winter training gear.
But for now, here's the best of 2011, as judged by ... well, me.
Lazer Aeroshell
This fairly simple, straightforward idea should be mimicked by every helmet maker — especially those who have lids that vent very well in warm weather. In cold weather, those vents turn into brain freeze.
My Aeroshell has been attached to my Lazer Genesis helmet for at least a month, and it'll probably stay there through spring. With just a thin skullcap, I've been able to stay plenty warm down into the low 20s. If I had any hair whatsoever, I'd probably be able to get away with a headband.
Click here for a more detailed rundown.
Oakley Fast Jacket
I've been an Oakley wearer for a long while now, I had a pretty good idea of what I'd be getting into when I opened the case for the Fast Jacket.
Little did I know, however, that it would become my go-to choice on the bike. While the Jawbone (my previous favorite) and the Radar (which looks pretty cool) offer plenty of eye coverage, the Fast Jacket just fits better. I feel like it sits closer to my face and stays put better than the others. And, again, the polarized lenses are awesome.
Click here for details on the features.
Shimano M315 shoes
These were a definite "prepare for 'cross" purchase. My old
off-road shoes were the Bontrager RXL Mountain, which are nice but never really fit me correctly. The M315 is Shimano's top-end, custom-fit model. The outsole was improved from past versions with more tread added, and as a whole the shoes are fairly light.
But the main feature is the fit. Like all Shimano custom-fit shoes, they feel like slippers. They've quickly become my favorite shoes, and that's based mostly on how they feel when you strap yourself in. They performed very well in 'cross in both dry and downright awful conditions. Plus, they're silver. And I can't get enough of shiny silver things.
Bontrager RXXXL shoes
These were a fairly unnecessary purchase in the middle of a long, hot summer. That said, it's turned out quite well. The RXXXL is very, very light and fits my foot well. Not quite custom-made-slipper-well, but pretty well.
One of the things I worried about in my initial review was durability. With something so lightweight, how well would it hold up? After a hard half-season, they certainly have some scuffs and wear (they clean up very easily), but I haven't seen anything that suggests they're not going to get through next season and then some.
Click here for more details.
Clement Crusade PDX tire
These were a sudden, semi-desperate purchase when I saw mud and doom lurking a few days ahead of a local 'cross race. They acquitted themselves wonderfully during the race and allowed me to rip around in fresh snow last weekend.
They'll spend the winter on my 'cross bike for our Nebraska gravel adventures, but I can definitely see myself getting a fresh pair for those sure-to-be-messy races next fall.
Click here for more details.
There you have it — five things I've been really psyched on for a while now. What's on your Best of 2011 list?
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In addition to being GamJams Tech Editor, Bryan Redemske has managed the Trek Bicycle Store of Omaha, is a professional writer and a Cat 3 racer. He drinks a lot of coffee.
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Sheesh, some of that stuff is expensive. Good thing you get your frames and wheels at Pro Deal pricing. Wait — you don't? You might want to look at November Bicycles. They've got a new racer-specific model designed to strip unnecessary pricing out of the cost of your new bike. It's like a Pro Deal for everyone.
November Bicycles. Race Smart.
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