2019 Holiday Gift Guide: Two-wheel toys

Nothing excites a triathlete more than a new gadget to their bike setup. Whether your triathlete needs a new helmet, shoes or a completely new ride, we’ve got it under control. Here are some great options this holiday season.

Abus GameChanger Helmet – $300

The GameChanger has set a new standard in aerodynamics, as its special shape reduces wind resistance by minimizing the exposed surfaces no matter the weather, your head position, or the angle of the wind coming at you. The innovative Special Forced Air Cooling Technology channels the airflow around your head, keeping you cool, while the specially designed FlowStraps optimize aerodynamics and comfort.

Bontrager Specter WaveCel Road Bike Helmet – $195

Using the Bontrager-exclusive Wavecel technology, this lightweight helmet offers advanced protection and extra ventilation so you can stay cool and well protected while out on the road. The Boa System lets you adjust the strap easily with one hand, and the Fidlock magnetic buckle fastens effortless for a secure fit.

Lazer Tardiz 2 – $230

The Lazer Tardiz 2 has improved on the original, now offering even more aerodynamic speed with its narrow, droplike shape and small frontal area. The truncated tail means you don’t need to be in the perfect position to get the aero benefits, and the dimpled, unvented rear surface adds speed to the shape. The helmet also features the ATS fit system which makes it easy adjusting to the perfect fit, and the Aquavent means you can pour water on your head if you like.

Scott Split Plus Helmet – $400

The Split Plus is Scott’s most advanced aero helmet yet, designed specifically for time trials and triathlons. The MIPS system provides added protection and increased airflow, and soft ear pads and the easy adjustment system ensure comfort and a tight fit.

Shimano TR5 – $190

The Shimano TR5 Triathlon shoes offer high-performance features at an entry-level price. Thanks to the T-1 Quick strap, wide collar and big heel loop, your foot will slide in with ease as you rocket out of transition. Once out on the road, the glass-fibre reinforced nylon sole ensures all of your efforts are pushing you forward, and the 3D breathable mesh in the upper allows for maximum comfort and ventilation.

Garneau Tri X-Lite III shoes – $265

The Tri X-Lite III shoes are designed to make transitions quick and easy, featuring a wide entry and double hook-and-loop straps. The stiff composite outsole allows you to put all of your power into the pedals, and the ventilated, antibacterial COOLMAX insoles will help keep your feet dry and comfortable.

Specialized Limited-Edition S-Works Shiv Disc – $18,000

After making its debut in Kona last year, this super-bike remains one of the hottest rides you’ll see around transition. This limited edition version (there are only 500 individually numbered available) features Shimano’s Dura-Ace Di2 components for shifting and braking and maximizes speed with top of the line aerodynamics and crosswind optimization. In addition to its performance, the bike also has a unique look with a paint job that, depending on the light, features a multitude of different colours.

Pinarello Bolide  TR+ – $15,800, FRAMESET WITH BAR SYSTEM

Ridden by Aussie Cameron Wurf en route to his bike course record in Kona last year, the Pinarello Bolide TR+ takes all the features the company puts into its time trial bikes for tour riders and has put it into a tri-friendly, asymmetric frame. There are lots of storage options for nutrition, space for a spare tube or tire, and all of the cables are internally routed for aerodynamics.

Ventum NS1 – US$5,500, FRAMESET

Similar to how the Ventum One and Z were game-changers for tri bikes, the NS1 shatters the notion that a road bike can’t be both lightweight and aerodynamic. Weighing in at less than 15 pounds, this is an aero-optimized bike that is made for the road, but is also tough enough for the trails.

Easton EC90 Aero 55 Wheels – $1,225

Whether you’re training or racing, the EC90 Aero 55 wheelset brings suitable performance for whatever your cycling needs are. They are perfect for the bike racer competing on fast, technical criteriums, and they also provide wind-cheating aerodynamics for the triathlete who needs a versatile set of wheels. With aero Fantom rims laced to Vault hubs, you get lightweight wheels that are able to endure long training rides while still providing optimal performance out on the course.

PRO Aerofuel Carbon Saddle – $300

Designed specifically for riding in a triathlon or time trial aero position, the PRO Aerofuel has carbon rails to help keep things light, while EVA padding provides just the right amount of support and comfort. The Antislip cover keeps you stable, and the short base ensures you’re in a forward, fast position for the entirety of your ride.

Garmin Vector 3 Pedal – $1,300

If you enjoy riding a variety of different bikes, but still want to be able to measure power, the Garmin Vector 3 is for you. The pedal measures total power, left/right balance, cadence and other pedaling data that easily integrates with any Garmin watch or computer. It also features ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity and 120 hours of battery life to make sure it’s easy to get all the info you need.

Fabric Lumaray V2 – $49

Offering 270 degrees of wraparound lighting, the compact Lumaray will keep you safe and easy to see. It has up to 7.5 hours of LED lighting, allowing you to see where you’re going and be easily spotted at night, and you can also set it to flash for added safety during the day, too.

Pearl Izumi Women’s Attack Thermal Jersey – $150

The sleek, form-fitting Attack Thermal Jersey from Pearl Izumi is just as stylish as it is fast. Perfect for rides out in the cold, it can also be combined with a jacket for when the temperature really drops. The four-way stretch thermal fleece is very comfortable, offers a full range of motion and the silicone gripper keeps the rear from riding up to keep you warm and give you access to the pockets.