Best bike accessories and tires 2015
From the 2015 Buyer’s Guide, the best in bike accessories and tires.
Torhans Aero Bento $38
With hard sides and an easy-to-reach soft top, the Aero Bento enhances your aerodynamic speed demon bike while providing easy access to your nutrition while training or racing. It’ll hold four to five gels and attaches by water-bottle cage bolts to the top-tube of bikes that are equipped with appropriate mounts such as the Cervelo P5 and Trek’s Speed Concept frames.
Zipp Vuka Alumina BTA Computer Mount $65
This Garmin mount gives you an unobstructed view of your metrics while staying conveniently out of the wind thanks to Zipp’s bta (between the arms ) design. This secure construction is both lightweight and durable. Stay tucked in the aero position and avoid any glaring wind penalties of awkwardly turning your head and aero helmet. The mount lets you position your Garmin so you can see your numbers simply by shifting your gaze not your position. The quarter turn mount only accepts Garmin Edge series head units.
Bontrager Multi Tool $9
You won’t have to get caught stranded the next time you need to make an adjustment on the fly. The lightweight Multi Tool is small enough to fit in a saddle bag or pocket, but has lots of Allen key sizes, along with two screwdrivers.
Shimano 105 Carbon Pedal PD-5800 $167
Designed to match the 105 11-speed gruppo, Shimano’s entrylevel pedals offer outstanding performance in an affordable package. The wide, lightweight carbon fibre body provides lots of platform area to maximize power transfer. Three types of cleats are available, offering a varying degree of f loat so you can dial in the perfect fit for your needs.
Xlab Torpedo $140
This lightweight and aerodynamic hydration system uses a bite valve to ensure that you’ll always have quick access to your water or electrolyte drink whether you’re training or racing. Two different straw positions make it easy to drink whenever you’d like, and the torpedo bottle can be stored in another water bottle cage if you want to use the holder for a regular water bottle during a race.
Continental Attack Comp $150
Long renowned for speed and durability, Conti’s new Attack Comp features a new design that increases comfort, aerodynamics, traction and handling. The 22 mm front tire cuts through the wind while the slightly wider 24 mm rear tire provides better traction.
Schwalbe One Clincher $79; Tubeless $80; Handmade Tubular $136
Available as a clincher, tubeless or tubular, the Schwalbe One is the fastest and most reliable tire Schwalbe makes. Using a new triple compound, the One manages to combine reduced rolling resistance and maximize grip, while also resisting punctures, in a lightweight tire that will serve you well whether you’re training or racing.
Maxxis Padrone $110
Using Dual Compound Technology that provides durability and control, the Padrone is a tubeless road tire that incorporates Maxxis’ Silkworm material and a carbon fibre bead to help prevent flats. The tubeless technology allows the tire to conform to the road surface to provide a smooth, comfortable ride.
CST Recourse c1808 $37
Available with a wire bead or as a foldable tire (the foldable version is a bit lighter thanks to a 120 TPI casing that reduces weight and improves ride quality), the Recourse c1808 is a great option for those looking for a wider tire for training and competition. EPS puncture protection is added to the casing for puncture protection.
Zipp Tangente Course $59; Speed $70; SL Speed $107
Designed to cut through the wind just like the Firecrest rim shape, the widersized Tangente tires has been designed to optimize rolling resistance. There’s a puncture-resistant belt woven in to the material, while the rubber compound used in the aerodynamic tread provides added grip. Available as a clincher (Course), tubular (Speed) and lightweight racing tubular (SL Speed), there’s a model suited to virtually any triathlete’s needs.
