Friday five-a-side is our round-up of all freshest road cycling and mountain biking gear. Here’s what's been delivered to BikeRadar HQ this week…
New road cycling gear
Cube Aerium Super HPC SLT
Described as the 'ultimate machine for ambitious triathletes and time triallists', this is Cube's top-of-the-line aero offering. The spec list from the Aerium features components from many different manufacturers, yet they've all got one thing in common – the ability to slice through the air with as little drag as possible. A fully integrated Dura Ace Di2 transmission delivers power via FSA's slippery Metron cranks while Reynolds' 72/90 hoops work to minimise losses through drag. It's designed for time trial or triathlon use, and has an adjustable stem and two different seatposts, depending on which sport you’re competing in.
£6,999 / £N/A
Showers Pass Cloud Cover dry wallet
Always Riding
ArrayThis little dry wallet from Showers Pass is big enough to take your change and a few cards, and is waterproof too.
£10 / $20
Madison Isoler Merino long-sleeve base layer
Wheelies
ArrayThis jersey is made from 100 per cent Merino wool, and can be worn by itself, over a jersey or as a mid-layer. For anyone who isn't already familiar with Merino, it'll keep you dryer and smelling fresher for longer than most alternative materials. Available in sizes S to XXL, it comes in a choice of either black or blue and the price isn't to be sniffed at either. A women's version is also available.
£44.99 / $N/A
Finish Line Pedal and Cleat lube
We're excited to test this soon-to-be-released Teflon based product after seeing it in action. The liquid dries within seconds and leaves a hard, dry Teflon film over whatever surface its applied to. As the name implies, it should be perfect for sticky pedals, greasy cleats and even small pivots and cables.
Pricing TBA
POC Road glasses
Amazon
ArrayThe DID sunglasses from POC are part of a large new range of Optics from the Swedish protection gurus. These may look familiar to the eagle eyed among you – that'll be because POC sponsored athlete Ryder Hesjedal was sporting a similar pair during last year's Tour. A retro style is consistent across the range and these are no exception – but look past the frames and there are NXT lenses that are treated with anti-scratch, anti-reflective, oleophobic and hydrophobic coatings. There are plenty of styles, colours and lens options to choose from.
From £88.89 / $160
New mountain biking gear
Cane Creek DBAir CS shock
Chain Reaction Cycles
ArrayLast year we had a brief fling with Cane Creek's DBAir CS shock, essentially a revamped version of the successful Double Barrel Air rear shock but with new technology to make it a better climber. The CS part of the name is derived from the new 'climb switch' – a flip lever that gives riders the ability to firm up their bike's rear suspension when the time comes to point the bike upwards. We'll be putting the DBAir CS through its paces soon so stay tuned for a full review.
£485 / US$695
Renthal Fatbar Lite Carbon
Wiggle
ArrayRenthal are already world-renowned for their aluminium components but this carbon fibre handlebar marks new territory for the UK manufacturer. The claimed weight is just 180g for this 740mm wide steering stick. It won't feel alien to aluminium Fatbar riders who are looking to upgrade either, as Renthal have kept their seven-degree backsweep and five-degree upsweep. There are 10, 20, 30 and 40mm rise options. Oh, and if you were wondering, no, it isn't made in the UK, Renthal partnered with an expert in Taiwan to produce this component.
£129.99 / US$159.99
New Superstar components
Superstar
ArrayWe all know the story by now – Superstar cut out the middle man, bringing you good quality parts without the mark-up you'll find from others. These latest bits are ideal for use on the current generation of enduro and downhill machines and although they're not as cheap as some of Superstar's other kit, they will still give you change over many of the big brands offerings. Here we have a wide yet stubby cockpit combo in the form of Superstar's 780mm wide Collective handlebar and Project 3D stem, and the matching Tactic seatpost.
Collective handlebar £40; Project 3D stem £34.99; Tactic seatpost £34.99
Ghost ASX 4900
Chain Reaction Cycles
ArrayLooking for a bang up to date 130mm trail bike on a budget? Check out this £1,100 offering from Ghost. This must be one of the cheapest ways to get your leg over a 650b 2014 full susser. As if that wasn't enough of an achievement, it weighs a claimed 14.9kg (32.95lb). The only thing that appears to get close to this in terms of value is the £1,349.99 Vitus Escarpe 275. Keep your eyes peeled for a full review soon.
£1,099.99 / US$N/A
Dainese Trail Skins knee pads
18 Bikes
ArrayThese new Trail Skins pads from Dainese should prove just the ticket for many riders this year. They just a silicone gripper to attach above the knee but a regular velcro strap below, and can be rolled out of the way should things get too hot. Protection comes in the form of a low-profile foam layer that covers the knee cap and hardens during an impact. The Trail Skins look set to be an excellent day-long choice, we'll put them through their paces and let you know if that's the case.
€59 / US$69.95
