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Gear we loved in 2016

Bikes, apparel and accessories that impressed

We tested lots of gear over the past year. Here are some bikes, accesories and apparel that stood out to our testers over the course of the year.

Ridley Fenix SL 40

Ridley Fenix SLVersatility in a road bike is becoming increasingly desirable and with big clearance the Ridley Fenix is a perfect choice for your next cycling adventure. The bike is ideally suited for how many cyclists already ride: with a mix of long exploratory rides with occasional diversions onto dirt; fast, spirited group rides with town-line sprints; and the very occasional race.

The David Millar Chpt. III collection by Castelli
castelli david millar chapt.III

What more can you ask for than impeccably stylish, comfortable and functional cycling clothing? David Millar’s Chpt. III collection will keep you happy in the saddle on your long rides and you’ll be the best dressed in your favourite coffee establishment. With jackets, arm and leg warmers and more to choose from you will also be able to accessorize for any riding conditions.

Kryptonite Alley and Avenue bike lights
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Kryptonite’s bike lights provided the same security we’ve come to expect from the companies sturdy bike locks. Bright lights with lots of modes to ensure you will be seen in any conditions make these lights extremely functional. They also boast long battery life, and are easy to charge and install.

Sako7 socks

Sako7

If fun socks are what you’ve been looking for take a look at Sako7’s extensive line-up. With so many styles and colours to choose from their is surely a pair you will quickly fall in love. The socks are also durable and comfortable made from 60 per cent nylon, 39 per cent Coolmax and 1 per cent Lycra.

Shimano S-Phyre RC9

Shimano shoes S-PhyreShimano’s new top-end shoes may not be the lightest on the market but their quality construction, unmatched comfort and good looks make them one of our favourite new offerings.

Bell Zephyr
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The primary function of a helmet is to keep your head well protected. With MIPS you can be confident that the Zephyr will do just that. Additionally, the fit system is one of the best out there making it one of the best fitting helmets we have tried.

Scott Spark
Scott Spark 2017

Scott boasts that the Spark is one of the lightest dual-suspension XC bikes on the market. Both XC Olympic gold medalists in Rio, Nino Schurter and Jenny Rissveds, were a top the Spark. Additionally it offers versatility and performance making it a joy to ride. The Spark also comes in very functional aluminium and plus-sized models meaning there is a wide range to choose from.

Fabric R150 mini pump
Fabric r150

When you are stranded on the side of the road a reliable and powerful mini-pump is a great thing to have in your pocket. The extremely compact Fabric R150 packs a powerful punch and is not frustrating to use like some mini pumps.

Bontrager Aeolus 5 TLR D3 wheel set
Bontrager Aeolus 5 TLR D3 carbon clinchers

If you are in the market for a pair of hoops that are performant enough to race on but sturdy enough to train on it’s hard to up the Bontrager Aeolus 5 TLR D3. The Aeolus are sturdy carbon clinchers and with a 50 mm profile are an extremely fun wheel set to ride. They’ll get you up to speed whether you are on the flats or climbing. For racers they are tubeless ready.

Ryders Nimby
Ryder Nimby

A good pair of glasses is something every cyclist can appreciate. The Ryders Nimby have a photochromic anti-fog lens which is ideal of riding in dimmer light conditions but will provide the protection you need if the sun decides to peak out from behind the clouds. They are light weight and provided versatility that was greatly appreciated.