TECH | COOL GEAR
ONE-BIKE WONDER Thule VeloLite 1-Bike Towbar Carrier | RRP R11 999 | thule. com Loading a three-or-more bike rack is a mission when you’ re heading off early to race or ride solo, but nobody wants a mud- or dust-caked bike inside their car either. This light, affordable and practical new platform-style, towbar-mounted bike carrier is designed for one bike, with a folding platform, independent bike arms with straps, integrated rear lights, licence plate holder and lockable towbar coupling. It can accommodate frames from 20 – 90mm, tyres up to 3in wide, and a maximum bike weight of 25kg.
CALF MILK
First Choice High Protein Max | RRP R44 for 250ml | firstchoice. co. za Most riders are aware that we don’ t get enough protein to maintain and build lean muscle mass. Many of us live in calorie deficit, often leading to unhealthy snacks after training and before bed. Milk is a well-known recovery favourite, so this super-tasty, ready-to-drink, milk-based protein beverage is a winner in our books. A 20 % whey and 80 % casein milk protein concentrate blend delivers 27g of protein per 250ml serving. It contains 6g + BCAAs, magnesium, calcium, eight B vitamins, no added sugar, and is fatfree. Perfect for high-intensity riders focused on muscle recovery, strength and endurance.
GEAR UP FOR GLORY SRAM XX SL Eagle AXS Transmission Groupset | RRP R59 999 | sram. com Technology in mountain biking has exploded in recent years, thanks largely to innovative brands like SRAM, who are constantly evolving the tech to make bike riding better. This 12-speed wireless electronic groupset is next-level awesome. It features the brand’ s new XX SL Transmission cassette for better-than-ever inboard and outboard shifting performance under load. And it’ s not only lightweight but also more robust thanks to a hangerless derailleur mounted directly to the frame. This Universal Derailleur Hanger( UDH) interface eliminates traditional adjustment screws, not to mention walking to the finish with another bent hanger or cabletied gears. The system includes the T-Type Eagle Transmission derailleur, a 10 – 52t cassette, flattop chain, 165 / 170 / 175mm crankarm and 34T chainring, the Pod Ultimate controller, and an AXS battery and charger. A power meter variant is also available. It’ s designed for XC, marathon and trail riders on UDH-compatible frames who value a light and precise wireless drivetrain.
COOL NEW CARGO CARRIER
First Ascent Alpha Cargo Bibs | RRP R2 999 | firstascent. co. za Bib shorts can make or break a long ride, especially on more gnarly trails or corrugated gravel where your nether regions can take a pounding. We have seen some serious progression in comfort and design in recent years, most notably softer and more breathable fabrics, and the addition of aerodynamic stretch pockets for easier access to gels, bars, your phone and more. They offer an alternative to less aero baggies and classic cycling jerseys with hard-to-reach rear pockets. First Ascent are known for their quality apparel, and these Alphas are super soft and comfy, with a three-layer chamois engineered for longer rides. We tried them on a few hard, hot rides and think they offer great value for money. The side and rear cargo pockets are big and very accessible, plus one side has a zip for valuables, like credit cards or car keys. The large rear harness pockets with handy pull tabs suit a loose-fit cycling T-shirt – more style, same storage. The wider-designed gripper cuffs definitely stay put, but you need to try them on for feel and fit.
24 | MTB | gotta have it