We as well have already covered a lot of kilometres this summer. We packed our bags, got our bikes rolling again and, in the process, some products have become particularly dear to us - often for the most diverse reasons. Discover our personal highlights from this summer and learn more about the background and experiences behind each of our highlights.
Vortrieb Modell 1.2
Hammerhead Karoo 2
I have tested the Hammerhead Karoo 2 intensively this year. Especially on my trip through Tuscany, it proved itself with its sufficiently long battery life and the always clearly readable display. Added to this are the high-quality feel and compatibility with all kinds of mount systems. My absolute highlight, however, is the intuitive operation I want to cycle; after all, and not play computer games.
SUPURB Bo16
TONIQ Degreaser
Forbidden Druid V2
With the 2nd generation of the Druid, the Canadians from British Columbia have once again improved their trail bike! The centre piece of the frame is the frame is the Trifecta rear triangle concept. The high pivot point in combination with the "inverted" 4-bar rear triangle combines the best features of the different systems. This provides excellent traction without losing playfulness or "pop". Thanks to chain stays that grow with the bike, every frame size is perfectly balanced. Travel is controlled by RockShox Lyrik and Superdeluxe Ultimate suspension elements, and shifting is done with the new X0 Transmission groupset. The Enduro World Cup successes of Rhys Verner and the rest of the Forbidden Synthesis Team show that the Druid should not only be judged by its suspension travel, but can also compete with full-fledged enduros.
Ortlieb Seat-Pack
Thule RoundTrip bike case
The Thule RoundTrip Road bike case has absolutely revolutionised my travel-with-bike adventures! With its ingenious assembly stand integrated into the case, mounting and dismounting my bike is a breeze. And thanks to the practical wheels at the end of the case, it is effortless to manoeuvre. Simply perfect for air transport - my bike was safely stored and arrived undamaged. I am thrilled and can only warmly recommend this case to every passionate road cyclist.
Oakley Sutro Lite Sweep Sports Glasses
bc basic Baselayer
I'm also one of those who thought that when it's hot, it's best to ride without a baselayer. But this is far from true. After I received the bc basic baselayer for testing, I quickly noticed how pleasant it is. The body climate feels much better. Sweat is absorbed or transferred and evaporates super-fast due to the structure of the baselayer. I won't ride without it anymore. No matter what the temperature. I won't ride without it anymore.
Oakley Airbrake MTB Goggle
What a goggle has to be able to do is actually not much at all - perfect vision, in any conditions. No fogging of the lens, good ventilation - plus a comfortable fit and easy handling when changing lenses. Few goggles combine all that, but the Oakley Airbrake ticks off all the requirements. I particularly like the recessed padding around the nose, thanks to which the airways do not get squeezed.
LEVELNINE Aero Handlebar
7mesh MK3 Cargo Bib Shorts
The 7mesh Cargo Bib is my go-to on longer gravel rides. Comfortable padding (not too thick - "pampers feeling" - but not too thin either) that provides good support and distributes pressure evenly. My personal highlight are the 5 pockets - they offer enough storage space for small items like snacks, mobile phone or keys. This means you can also wear an airy T-shirt or shirt in summer. Otherwise, I'm always happy to see a bit of colour in the rather monotonous black world of bib shorts.
BikeYoke Revive 272 Dropper Post
Specialized Epic World Cup Pro Carbon
A cross-country bike with legendary status, completely reworked. My previous Specialized Epic is already bursting with propulsion on the uphill and potency on the downhill. In the new edition, the rear triangle has been relocated to the top tube and the weight has been improved once again. On top of that, it is equipped with the new SRAM XO Eagle Transmission groupset. If you don't win with this, you have to work on the training, because this bike is destined for the podium.
uvex rise pro MIPS Helmet
The rise pro MIPS combines very good aerodynamic values, a low weight, and a very comfortable fit in a coherent overall concept. At the same time, the MIPS AirNode system is comfortable to wear and has no restrictions in terms of ventilation. I last wore the helmet at the 24 h of Rad am Ring and was thrilled from the first minute.
Wahoo Speedplay Powrlink Power Meter Pedals
The Wahoo Speedplay POWRLINK pedals are the biggest innovation on my road bike this year. With this powermeter, I get additional data on every ride and can better assess my performance. This is especially helpful on long climbs. As a nice side effect, I now have even more rows of numbers to geek off on after the ride.
3min19sec Cassette Removal Tool + Chain Whip
Northwave Mistral Plus Road Shoes
Precise adjustment options thanks to several twist locks, a stiff carbon sole and all that packed into a fair price, this is what made me buy the Northwave Mistral. The shoes won me over once and for all at the 24 h Rad am Ring race: a snug-fitting racing shoe with the necessary comfort and all that in a fast white.
