Challenge Grifo

by: admin - November 14th, 2011   Filed under: cyclocross, product reviews Add Comment

I’ve recently passed my opinion on the Dugast Rhino and Dugast Typhoon. I don’t have too many words to say about either but I am aware we don’t all want to run to Dugast prices – they are about the most expensive cyclocross tubs on the market.

Luckily there are lots of others out there on the market – Challenge, Vittoria, Schwalbe, FMB, Specialized, Gommitalia(sp?),Tufo – have I missed any? Before joining club Dugast I was a running Challenge tubs on both my wheel sets.  I have two identical wheel sets and funds/justification means that’s where its staying!

Last season wheelset one was wearing a pair of Challenge Grifos, actually it had been wearing these for a few years or so.  A point to note here is that the Challenge tubs seem quite durable and one reason for this is the side walls are noticeably tougher.  The first thing to go a tub is probably going to be the sidewall – it gets abused and its made out of a relatively fragile material which isnt a great combo.

The Grifo is a similar tread pattern although not identical to the Dugast Typhoon.  The Grifo is an allrounder which probably likes the conditions slightly damp rather than bone dry.  Personally I dont think it corners or rolls as well as the Dugast Typhoon BUT and here is the big BUT its significantly cheaper.  So, if you’ve got the cash I say go Dugast, if you are new to the sport or on your first set of tubs with a tighter budget then the Challenge will do the job very nicely.  Dont forget Challenge sponsor a number of top pros so these tyres are still World Cup race capable.

If you need a set, Cyclocross specialists Hargroves Cycles have got them

Challenge Grifo Cyclocross Tubulars

Challenge Grifo Cyclocross Tubulars

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Dugast Typhoon

by: admin - November 12th, 2011   Filed under: cyclocross, product reviews Add Comment

I couldnt review the Dugast Rhino without reviewing its older brother the Dugast Typhoon.

The Dugast Typhoon runs probably the most well known tread pattern on the market – its been around since the year dot and you can find a similar pattern used by FMB, Challenge and Gommitalia.  It may be old, but dont be put off by that.  To put you in the picture I’ve run the Challenge Griffo for a few years and have always been fairly happy with its performance – its the Challenge equivalent of the Dugast Typhoon.  My Griffos finally lost the will to live so I decided to replace them with the more expensive Dugast Typhoon.  Seems it was money well spent – Im quite surprised as to how different they feel.

Firstly the Typhoon seems a little narrower and to that extend it seems to roll faster too.  Though the tread patterns are similar the Typhoon seems flatter and therefore faster in the dry.  I was really impressed with the Typhoon, one thing that really impressed me was I was able to run it where previously I would have moved to a Rhino.  I really wish Id had a set of these years ago – yes they are pricey but boy are they a great all round tub for all but the muddiest conditions.

Take a trip over to the cyclocross experts at Hargoves Cycles - they are the best place for Dugast.

Dugast Typhoon Cyclocross Tub

Dugast Typhoon Cyclocross Tub

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Dugast Rhino

by: admin - November 12th, 2011   Filed under: cyclocross, product reviews Add Comment

The cyclocross season is well under way and now the mud has finally arrived in the UK . You need more grip, you need to run low pressures - well there’s only one tub around to do the job – its the Dugast Rhino. The Dugast Rhino really still is the choice when the going gets tough – nothing else can quite do the job.

Recently Challenge have released the Challenge Limus which is due to hit the UK in the next few weeks. The Limus looks totally different to the Rhino tread pattern and reviews Ive seen seem to be saying the Rhino is still the mud king. The Dugast Rhino has deep tread blocks and supple sidewalls to provide good mud shedding grip and extra feel at low pressures.  I’ve ridden the Rhino for 3 or 4 seasons now and if I was to only own one pair of tubs it would be the Rhino.  Even in the dry they roll well and they still feel safe and predictable on the corners without dragging too much.  I would always suggest using Aquasure on the sidewalls to prevent them cutting up or rotting.  Fit the tubs and then Aquasure as close down to the rim as you can.  Obviously never jet wash the sidewalls directly as this can damage them and also may remove glue and cause you to roll a tub next time out.

Hargroves Cycles are the main place in the UK to get Dugast so check them out here

Dugast Rhino Cyclocross Tub

Dugast Rhino Cyclocross Tub

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Specialized Roubaix Armadillo Elite Tyres

by: admin - October 27th, 2011   Filed under: product reviews, specialized Add Comment
As part of my crusade to have a hassle free winter commute / ride, I’ve turned my attention to tyres.  Firstly I don’t like tyre liners and I don’t like tubes full of goo! I’d rather have a quality tyre that is fronting itself to be puncture resistant.  Lots of choice available – Ive previously used a Continental Four Seasons and also the Gatorskin – the later I really didn’t get on with but my Four Seasons were good until I killed a sidewall somehow. So its time to move on and Ive committed the tyre sin and bought a set of Specialized Roubaix Armadillo Elite tyres. A sin ? The reputation of Specialized from a grip and cornering perspective isn’t great so I’ve taken a bit of a punt here. Rumour has it the compounds used by Specialized this year is improved and that they also have a new “tyre guy” whatever that really means.

Onto the tyres then and enough background babble.  They are quite a tight fit to my Mavic Aksiums, its not a problem but Ill always need tyre levers in my bag for these.  In the dry they felt pretty good, but most of my miles will be in the wet.  First rainy day out I was fairly impressed – at least as good as the Gatorskin but maybe not quite as good as the Four Seasons.  The Roubaixs have  chamfered edge to help push water away and aid cornering – it certainly works to some degree.

Im about to write a bad thing “I haven’t had a puncture so far” there we go I wrote it – but really I havent and Ive been banging out the wet winter miles for about a month now so I’m happy so far.  Just over £25 at Hargroves Cycles which isnt too bad at all either.  Give them a go – I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.

Specialized Roubaix Armadillo Elite Tyres

Specialized Roubaix Armadillo Elite Tyres

Roubaix tires are the perfect match for any rider who wants ultimate performance, without the harsh ride. Comfortable, large-volume 25c casing and a fast-rolling 23c tread ensure a supple ride that rolls fast and corners extremely well.
psi 115125
Bead: Aramid
Center Compound: 70a / Shoulder Compound: 60a
Casing: 25c 120 TPI casing
Flat Protection: Armadillo Elite
Tread: 23c dual compound

 

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Specialized Therminal Deflect Bib Tights

by: admin - October 26th, 2011   Filed under: product reviews, specialized Add Comment

Im graduaully updating my winter cycling wardrobe and today was the time for tights.  I’ve never had a really good pair of tights, I’ve generally used bib shorts and good leg warmers to pretty good effect.  So this year I treated myself to a pair of Specialized Therminal Deflect Bib Tights.  RRP is £99 which seems a fair price for a good quality product.  The clue to what makes them good is in the title – “Deflect”.  The tights have panels on the front of a wind proof fabric so you really should stay pretty warm and comfortable to boot.  My first impressions of the Therminal Deflects is they feel well made and the cut is good. Im a medium unless its Italian cycling clothing and these a good true medium.  They have a zip at both ankles and a zip at the front to aid getting in.  Out on the bike they flex in the right places and seem to do the job – money well spent it seems.  My only debate is whether a tight with a chamois would be better – this would probably offer less flexibility but would mean I dont have 2 layers where it isnt really needed – I guess this is a personal thing and at the moment Im in two minds.

Specialized Therminal Deflect Bib Tights

Specialized Therminal Deflect Bib Tights

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Spec below:

All the cold-weather performance of our TherminalT EX Deflect Tight, with the added comfort and security of a unique bib upper design. Comfortable down to 30°F/1°C.

  • Updated for Fall 2010
  • TherminalT EX fabric adds weight and brushing for extra insulation beyond our standard Therminal material
  • Wind-proof laminate panels provide protection in key wind chill areas
  • Innovative accordion construction above the knee for improved flexibility at the knee
  • Front zipper for convenience and easy fit
  • Ergonomically angled ankle zips with reflective trim for visibility
  • Custom Specialized logo silicone gripper holds the ankle securely
  • Sculpted upper design provides support and additional protection
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Sportful Hotpack Jacket

by: admin - October 24th, 2011   Filed under: product reviews Add Comment

Im not sponsored by Sportful which is a shame, but I generally rate their products quite highly – nice quality and not too pricey.  I’ve been carrying a Sportful Hotpack Jacket around in my bag for quite some time and recently its been coming out rather more ofter than maybe I’d like.  First things first, this isnt a Goretex jacket and its really not trying to be – but at £60 rather than £200 for a nice Goretex number its understandable you cant compare the performance like for like.  The Hotpack does win hands down in one way however – its tiny! The jacket folds up into its only pocket the size of a tennis ball and that makes it a no brainer for stuffing in a jersey pocket on any ride.  Even in the summer you may as well chuck it in because we all know British summers days arent the same as those in Mallorca for example.  All in all its wind proof, pretty water resistant but mostly just really handy to have in your pocket.  A good buy and a get out of jail free card for me on numerous rides.

Sportful Hotpack Jacket

Sportful Hotpack Jacket

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Moon X Power 300 and Shield 50 Light Set

by: admin - October 22nd, 2011   Filed under: product reviews 1 Comment

Next weekend the clocks go back, which for any cyclist means its the end of light evenings and a good light set is a must.

There are lots of lights out there to choose from and you can spend from £10 to £500 on a set – or more! Personally I just want to be seen, I’m not a night rider for fun, just for getting to and from work.

So I dont want to spend too much, but then I don’t want a £20 Halfords special set either.  This year I’ve found a really nice set which seem to be worth more than the price tag too.

Ive gone for the  Moon X Power 300 and Shield 50 Light Set.  You can buy these as individuals or as a set. I managed to get the set for £99.99 at Hargroves Cycles which is a bargain considering the front light is £80.99 on its own at Wiggle!

So whats so good? Its all about the brightness, these are really, really bright - the rear in particular.  From what I can tell its a 60 Lumen rear light – that’s bright, even in daytime its properly visible and with 5 modes you can select brightness levels and a flashing options.  The front has a good kick too - it uses a CREE LED which by all accounts are THE LED brand of choice – proper cutting edge and top quality. The front light pushes out 300 Lumen’s and has five settings – various brightness levels and a flashing mode.  Another nice thing is these come with 2 USB charging cables and a plug adapter so dead handy to charge at work or at home.

For under £100 these really are a top product, people will actually comment on how bright they are – in particular the rear. I read another review from Cycling Weekly and they said the rear was just ridiculously bright, maybe too bright!

X Power 300 and Shield 50 Light Set

 

 

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Specialized Equinox Gloves

by: admin - October 20th, 2011   Filed under: product reviews, specialized Add Comment

As part of my quest to stay dry and warm this winter Ive purchased a pair of Specialized Equinox Gloves.  Im expecting these to be an Autumn to early Winter glove – the blurb says down to 50°F/10°C but I reckon they will be ok a bit colder than that.  The gloves are a windproof shell with a light fleece lining and they arent particularly thick to gripping the handlebar is still very good.  On a few rides so far in October Ive been warm enough for sure – they are very wind resistant and the only thing that will force me onto a warmer glove will outright temperature drops.

Specialized Equinox Gloves

Specialized Equinox Gloves

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Snuggle up with the comfortable, fleece-lined Equinox Glove. Windproof, yet breathable for dry conditions down to 50°F/10°C.

FEATURES

  • Windproof finger protection for top of fingers and front of hand
  • Stretchable upper is fleece-lined for warmth
  • Brushed MicrowipeT thumb wipe
  • BG pad for ulnar nerve protection
  • Slip-on cuff has extra length for coverage
  • Reflective printing for visibility
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Specialized Eureka Element Jacket

by: admin - October 20th, 2011   Filed under: product reviews, specialized Add Comment

I picked up another fresh bargain today. The Specialized Eureka Element Jacket.  Its getting cold, but I dont want to boil in the bag.

First impressions, its got a fleecy type lining and it feels like it should be warm. Ive copied the spec from Specialized below.  On the bike, I was generally pleased with the performance – I was warm and indeed I didnt get too hot either, so it does what it says it will.  The entire front of the jacket isnt wind proof, on occassions I felt I was getting chilled when I shouldnt be but these panels are in the areas you flex the most and thus the jacket doesnt restrict your movement – its a fair trade off I reckon.  Other plusses are it has good pockets at the rear and some reflective piping on the arms and other areas to keep you seen . The RRP on this jacket is £99.99 – a bit much I reckon but at £39.99 its well worth it.  7/10 – Not bad, worth a buy at sale price.  Im told it comes in other colours too!

Specialized Eureka Element Jacket

Specialized Eureka Element Jacket

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Part of a collection of winterweight “Element” styles, this cold-loving jersey uses FieldsensorT fabric and soft shell panels on the front and arms to keep the wind outside, your warmth inside and your training regime right on schedule.

FEATURES:

  • Redesigned for Winter 2009
  • Winterweight FieldsensorT fabric effectively dispels moisture for more warmth in colder conditions
  • Element soft shell protective panels have a water resistant nylon/spandex outer layer
  • TherminalT stretch fabric on side panels provide comfort in the cycling position.
  • Full-length external zipper construction is smooth against the body
  • Zippered, reflective cuffs provide easy on-and-off
  • Expanding rear pockets with additional zippered security pocket
  • Form fit sizing
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Sportful Merino Wool Socks

by: admin - October 20th, 2011   Filed under: Uncategorized Add Comment

I really do get through an awful lot of cycling gear, so giving my opinion on it might help you decide whether to buy it or not!

So today I took delivery of some Sportful Merino Wool Socks.  Winter is almost here and my commute is getting a little chilly.  Its probably not cold enough to mess about with over shoes so some thick socks – in this case Sportful Merino Socks should do the job.  Initial impressions are good.  They are nice and thick without being too thick to get in my shoe, they come up to just above my ankle so nasty gaps between leg warmers/tights and socks.  I had a pair of Cannondale carbon socks which I finally killed last year so Im hoping these will be a worthy replacement – I reckon they will.  RRP is £15, but I found a few places offering 10% Off with free delivery.

9/10

Sportful Merino Socks

Sportful Merino Socks

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wondering Why Merino? Ill save you the trouble of going to Wikipedia – a good summary I have borrowed below:

Merino wool is common in high-end, performance athletic wear. Typically meant for use running, hiking, skiing, mountain climbing, cycling, and in other types of outdoor aerobic exercise, these clothes command a premium over synthetic fabrics.

Several properties contribute to merino’s popularity for exercise clothing, compared to wool in general and to other types of fabric.
Merino is excellent at regulating body temperature, especially when worn against the skin. The wool provides some warmth, without overheating the wearer. It draws moisture (sweat) away from the skin, a phenomenon known as wicking. The fabric is slightly moisture repellent (keratin fibers are hydrophobic at one end and hydrophilic at the other), allowing the user to avoid the feeling of wetness.[6]
Like cotton, wool absorbs water (up to 1/3 its weight), but, unlike cotton, wool retains warmth when wet[7] helping wearers avoid hypothermia after strenuous workouts (climbs) or weather events.[6]
Like most wools, merino contains lanolin which has antibacterial properties.[8]
Merino is one of the softest types of wool available, due to finer fibers and smaller scales.[7]
Merino has an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio compared to other wools, in part because the smaller fibers have microscopic cortices of dead air, trapping body heat similar to the way a sleeping bag warms its occupant.[9]

 

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