If you’re like me, there’s nothing like sharing your love of bikes with the newest generation. But, if you’re also like me, you break into a small panic at the thought of your kids hitching a ride with you without top-of-the-line protection. And, up until now, the choices for little ones under 2 have been pretty darn sparse. Which is why I was happy to see the newest innovation from Nutcase that brings MIPS protection down to the smallest of us. With the latest in helmet research suggesting that MIPS does bolster safety, it’s nice to see this feature embedded in the new Baby Nutty helmet.

Although I can’t comment on any safety ratings, since our review doesn’t cover lab tests, the fit and finish of the Baby Nutty helmet sets it above others I’ve used with my little ones.

NUTCASE BABY NUTTY HELMET REVIEW

Available in size XXS, (47-50cm), the Baby Nutty is designed for children one year of age and older and features a dynamically awesome magnetic buckle. This buckle makes sure you don’t accidentally pinch your little one as the prolific snap-style buckles are prone to do–especially when said little one is excitedly jumping around while you’re attempting to secure their helmet.

A super quick slide-on, and the helmet it buckled in a split second. In addition, padding ensures that the buckle doesn’t even come in direct contact with their chin. Very smart design.

At 293 grams (according to our own scales), the Baby Nutty helmet is very lightweight. This equalled a happy kid who didn’t want to take his helmet off even after a two-hour, tag-a-long ride.

Overall, this helmet stood up well to the everyday abuse that my toddler put it through. The straps stayed soft and adjustable despite him dribbling juice all over them. They cleaned up easily with a baby wipe (check the manufacture’s recommendation, but I pretty much just use wipes to clean up everything). The padding and shell remained durable without tears, or any damage.

The quality and attention to detail shows. Helmets off to Nutcase on this one.

FIT & ADJUSTABILITY

My son was the main tester for the Baby Nutty, and, at nearly 2 years old, the helmet still fits him quite well. Elastic bands at the back of the head allow for automatic adjustments, and a quick-swap, velcro padding let the helmet grow with your child.

The under-ear adjusters allow you to get a nice V-fit that sits comfortably (at least, my kid didn’t complain about them, so I assume they’re comfy). A short leave strap allows for a few inches of loosening without a great deal of excess hanging around–plus a band keeps it well tucked.

COVERAGE & STYLE

We tested the Baby Nutty MIPS in the Head In The Clouds design, which seemed quite appealing to both male and female testers (ie, it should work fine for even the most particular of color-conscious kids). A definite plus if you plan to use the helmet for more than one child or wish to pass it down from kid-to-kid (always check the manufacturer’s recommendations for limitations on lifespan and never, ever use the helmet after a crash as it could compromise its safety).

Of course, the coolest feature in the Nutcase line is that siblings or friends who want to match can do just that. The Baby Nutty sits below the Little Nutty in size, but allows for continuity in color and design–just in case you were worried about finding that exact match for an older sibling.

AVAILABILITY

With the Baby Nutty retailing at $49.99 (tested at $69.99 with MIPS), the 2018 collection is available now at www.nutcasehelmets.com, at your LBS, and online retailers like Amazon.

Of course, kids can pick from six colors/designs to match their personality with the Head In The Clouds version equipped with MIPS (tested). Colors include: Head in the Clouds, Happy Hearts, Petal Power, Go Green Go, Outer Space, and Color Splash.

Learn more about Nutcase helmets at their official website, or follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.

The post Nutcase Baby Nutty Helmets Offer MIPS Protection – Review appeared first on SLO Cyclist | An Online Road Bicycling Magazine.

How many Boa dials does it take to get you the perfectly fit cycling shoe? Well, the answer is as many as Bont feels is necessary. In this case, just one. But it’s not just the ultra-strategic Boa dial, it’s the fully wrapped cable wiring system. Turn the dial one click–feel the fit adjust all around your foot.

Sweet.

BONT HELIX CYCLING SHOE REVIEW

So what’s so new and different about these Bont’s? Well, we’ve reviewed Bont cycling shoes in the past and have always been impressed with their customizable heat-treatment process. Meaning, you literally stick these shoes in your oven, heat them til the carbon becomes malleable, and shape them around your feet (those aren’t the actual directions–make sure to follow Bont’s instructions on how to properly heat mold your shoes).

But Bont took the custom fit a bit further by adding an integrated cable wiring system that actually wraps all the way around the shoe and through the carbon chassis. In other words, the Boa dial will adjust the cable fully around your foot. Racers take note.

TECH SPECS

Weight: 226 grams (size 41, according to our scale)

Availability: Now

Price: $399

Colorways: shiny red/white, metallic blue/white, black/gold, black/white, and white/charcoal

Upper Material: Duralite Outer Skin

Stack Height: 3.6mm

Carbon: Unidirectional Monocoque Chassis

Tested: Size 41, Wide, Shiny Red/White (a very sweet color that matches well with a red/black kit)

Built for maximizing the strength to weight ratio of the shoe, the Bont Helix is ultra light and won’t give you that block-footed feeling of heavier shoes. Even when your legs are tired, these shoes still feel light and fast. Definitely stiff and hard-soled for the ultimate in power transfer.

Of course, key to the aesthetics of the overall shoe, the unidirectional carbon fiber has a pretty cool matte finish and wave points (my own, unofficial, technical term) under the arch that not only reinforces high stress areas, but also adds a pretty awesome look to the shoe as a whole.

The upper is made of an outer leather that is layered with Bont’s own proprietary material to keep the upper from stretching. Similar in strength to Kevlar (yes, Kevlar), it’s stitched and bonded to the liner–meaning it’s there and it’s staying there. This added layer means that the upper doesn’t leak watts.

Certainly, the construction of Bont’s Helix shoe is rock-solid and perfect for riders who want every gram of energy transferred directly into the pedals. With an upper that stays put, but still feels supple and comfortable, these shoes deliver in every way.

BONT HELIX REVIEW – THE VERDICT

These shoes really are top-shelf worthy, and I’m not ashamed to sing Bont’s praises here. But I did have to do a little work to get them to fit like perfection. I’m not generally a hard-soled kinda rider, and  my first ride wearing the Helix shoes did not go so well. I had some heel rub, and developed numbness in my left foot several miles in (followed by my right foot a few miles later).

But, knowing how my other Bont shoes fit so well, I went back to the oven. Two more heat treats later, and I rounded out a few areas along the arch, set the heels in perfectly, and smoothed out a hot spot.

Overall, my final bit of comfort adjustment did involve adding a light and thin insole; though, wearing a nicely padded sock also did the same trick, but I’m generally a thin sock kinda cyclist. If you’re not used to hard-soled carbon shoes, you may find a few adjustments necessary as well.

Yes, I know the added insole somewhat defeated the purpose of the closed cell memory foam padding that ensures it won’t retain moisture from sweat or wet conditions (ie it stays light and keeps the shoe’s durability from breaking down). But the upside for me was a perfectly cushioned, perfectly dialed, perfectly competitive cycling shoe.

And that’s what sets the Helix apart. Once I molded the chassis to fit me perfectly, the innovative cable wiring system really spoke to me. One click forward or back and the whole shoe adjusts–even the shoe’s volume. It’s pretty darn fool-proof.

A NOTE ON THE FIT

Cyclists with wider feet will want to take note as these were hands-down the widest shoe I’ve ever tested. Plenty of wiggle room in the toe box, for sure. As a wide-footed rider, I think I may have just hit shoe nirvana.

Aside from going with a wide-width option, I also sized up from my usual EU 40 to a 41. You’ll definitely want to check out the sizing guide before purchasing these shoes to make sure you’re not ordering a pair that’s too short.

So, yes, the Bont Helix is one of the sweetest pairs of shoes I’ve ever tested. Definitely worth the $399 price tag if you’re serious about performance without sacrificing comfort. Very light and very fast, the Helix holds its own.

Get more information at www.bontcycling.com

The post Bont Helix Review – Cycling Shoes That Fit Perfectly appeared first on SLO Cyclist | An Online Road Bicycling Magazine.

active bottle picBLDG Active, the leader in bringing cutting-edge medical technologies to active outdoor athletes, announces two additions.  The new skin repair product and bringing pro Multi-World Champ, Brian Lopes, to it’s ambassador team.

BLDG Active Skin Repair

Price: $24.99 & $29.99

Weight: 3 fl oz

Available in a 3 fl oz spray bottle and a 3 fl oz hydrogel options

Upsides:

-Does what it’s supposed to do.  Minimizes the chance of infection from the all too common on-the-trail oops and ouches.

-Convenient size so it’s more likely to be there when you need it.

Downsides:

-It burns on application.  My daughter said it was painful when applied to her road rash.

-Not cheap.

The Review

Luckily(?) I had a test subject available as my daughter had a nasty fall in hurdles practice, picking up road rash on her knee and thigh.  We applied BLDG Active to the wound within a day of her spill and kept applying it over three days.  She preferred the topical to the spray as it caused less stinging to the wound.

The injuries healed well without any lingering signs of infection, weeping or oozing.  BLDG Active seemed to keep the wound clean and aided the healing process as claimed.

The Verdict

The size and convenience of BLDG Active Skin Repair could make it much more likely that it’ll be there when you need it–it’s easy to keep in your pack or car.  Timely and consistent use of BLDG Active did prevent fungal or yeast infections from occurring and kept the recovery time short.

Not inexpensive but helps you get back at your sport sooner.

Get more info or grab some for yourself at https://shop.bldgactive.com/

HOW TO HELP WITH ROAD RASH

Read more now on crashes, falls and just bad luck…What I Learned From My First Bike Crash.

also consider how to be ready for your next adventure: How To Warm Up For Your Next Cyclocross Race

EDITORS NOTE:

Welcome Kory to SLOcyclist.  Kory is a new contributing writer.  Glad to have you on board.

The post BLDG Active Review appeared first on SLO Cyclist | An Online Road Bicycling Magazine.

We first met up with RedShift way way back many Interbikes ago when they released their quick release aero bars. The next year we tested out their ShockStop stem. Now, advancing their mission to make you as comfy as possible on even the bumpiest of roads, RedShift have launched a new suspension seatpost that claims to let you ride further, faster, and more comfortably on your bike.

REDSHIFT SHOCKSTOP SEATPOST KICKSTARTER

Launching today on Kickstarter, the Redshift ShockStop Seatpost boasts 35mm of travel and fits most bikes.

ADJUSTABLE SUSPENSION TO MEET YOUR RIDE

Redshift Sports claim this adjustable-stiffness suspension seatpost will dramatically improve your ride. It is suited for offroad adventures to city or road rides, which you can also combine with Redshift’s stem-based iteration.

ROUGH ROADS AND TRAILS – EVERYWHERE

No matter where you ride, you’ll hit bumps and potholes. Modern bikes are designed for speed and efficiency, and we all know how tough it can be to find that sweet spot in comfort. Those bumps pass right through to the rider causing fatigue and pain. Redshift says this seatpost will reduce impact by 60% with compatibility for most bikes and ease of install.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

An internal spring applies force on the seatpost’s four-bar linkage, which in turn suspends the saddle and rider. As you ride, the seatpost allows the bike to move under you as it encounters uneven terrain.  That’s what reduces the accumulated effects of bumps and vibrations.

CAN I INSTALL IT ON MY BIKE?

This was designed to fit most bikes with just the usual 5mm allen key at the seat collar. Designers made ShockStop Seatpost to fit a standard round seatpost of 27.2mm in diameter. If your bike takes a seatpost that is larger than 27.2mm, a few shims can be used to make it fit. (Note: Bikes with non-round seatposts or that take seatposts smaller than 27.2mm are not compatible.)

Here are the full specs:

• Diameter – 27.2mm (shims available for larger seat tube diameters)
• Suspension Travel – 35mm
• Length – 350 mm
• Weight – 497 grams
• Rearward Offset at 25% Sag – 10mm
• Rearward Offset Range – 0 to 22mm
• Maximum Rider Weight – 110 kg
• Material – 6061 T6 Aluminum
• Production Process – 3D forging and 5-axis CNC machining
• Color/Finish – black anodized
• Types of Riding: Road, Gravel, CX, e-Bike, Commuter, and Mountain

HOW TO BACK THE SHOCKSTOP SEATPOST

With an attainable $20k goal and plans to deliver the seat posts this fall, we’re stoked to see how RedShift’s new project follows their bright launches from the past. Early Bird specials start at $129 with full systems and packages available as well. Check out their Kickstarter for more info.

The post Redshift Sports Launches Shockstop Suspension Seatpost on Kickstarter appeared first on SLO Cyclist | An Online Road Bicycling Magazine.

A partnership of 4iiii Innovations Inc. and Specialized Bicycle Components has produced the new S-Works Power-Cranks. A collaboration that brings cyclists, according to the folks at 4iiii, the lightest, most accurate power meter on the market. With real-world accuracy at a claimed 1.5%, the S-Works beats the nearest claims by .5%. We haven’t vetted these features yet, but it seems the partners have really put their R&D departments at hard work, and sent their product for independent validation at the Locomotion Laboratory at the University of Colorado, Boulder.

4iiii SPECIALIZED S-WORKS DUAL CRANK

With all the powercranks available, what makes this power meter stand out? A combined dual-sided power meter plus carbon fiber. With two independent strain gauge assemblies on each crankarm, you see the total power you are producing.  Also, along with independent leg metrics, you’ll know how much power you’re putting out with each leg.

POWER CRANKS, GOOD FOR BEGINNERS AND PROS ALIKE

If you’ve never trained with power, you’ll likely find that it revolutionizes your riding somewhat. No lag in hitting the proper zone like other methods, and a very real measurement of exactly how much your fitness has changed. Moving from a single-leg measurement to a dual-sided unit, you’ll see maximum accuracy in your power numbers. And with these S-Works cranks measuring at 1.5%, it would make this iteration the ultimate training tool.

A fully waterproof unit also has built-in temperature compensation firmware. Great if you’ve been let down by other units that show jumping numbers after a rainy ride or a bike wash.

MORE ON THE SPECIALIZED 4iiii COLLABORATION

Created sleek and light to complement the new Specialized Tarmac Disc, which will include the S-Works Power Cranks as standard equipment. In fact, Specialized has chosen 4iiii to be the technology partner for their complete line of Power Cranks. S-Works, Shimano Dura-Ace, Ultegra and 105 Power Cranks will be available in various dual and single-side aftermarket configurations.

If you want to see the new power meters in action, we’ve included the official release video for you. Peter Sagan’s in it, so you’re gonna wanna check it out.

Grab more info at specialized.com and 4iiii.com

The post 4iiii and Specialized Release S-Works Power Cranks, Claimed Lightest and Most Accurate Power Meter Available appeared first on SLO Cyclist | An Online Road Bicycling Magazine.

Over here in our the neck of the states, skies wait for months on end to rain, and then decide to pour out all at once over a few weeks. We’re currently in that storm cycle, so the timing couldn’t be better that we started testing Gore Wear’s (aka Gore-Tex) new Gore C7 Shakedry Viz Cycling Jacket. 

While the wind and rain and fog leaves our roads cold and sunless, my small ray of sunshine remains the Shakedry jacket. It almost makes working out in the rain enjoyable–keeping my core completely free from infiltrating droplets.

If there ever was a product that lives up to its claims, the Gore C7 Shakedry is it. This jacket is like nothing I’ve ever tested. Super compact and ultra lightweight, it’s one of the coolest products around. And all of the claims they make about its waterproof ratings are true. Not a drop of water gets inside this jacket, yet it still maintains its breathability.

GORE C7 SHAKEDRY VIZ GORE WEAR JACKET REVIEW

TECH SPECS

Price: $279

Version Tested: Women’s Gore Wear C7 Shakedry Viz

Weight: 108 grams by our scale

Sizes: XS-XL

Colors: Storm Blue/Lumi Orange, and Black/Neon Yellow

Shakedry shells are also available in several other iterations for men and women, with a Shakedry Stretch version available later this month. Get the full line info at gorewear.com

WHAT SETS THE GORE C7 SHAKEDRY VIZ APART

Perhaps the most unique thing about the Gore Wear C7 shell is its material. As thin as an outer shell gets, this jacket is permanently waterproof and surprisingly durable. When the rain starts pouring down on you, droplets bead up all over the outside of this jacket and tend to stay put. In name-like fashion, shake it quickly once or twice, and it’s completely dry again. A feature that means your jersey pocket won’t get soaked when you decide to stow your C7. 

Genius.

Inside the jacket has flat seams that are almost imperceptible when it’s on. And a crazy awesome plus is that I found I couldn’t stain the main fabric–mud, grease, road grit just wiped off (not tested on the hi-viz fabric). But the jacket is also machine washable, though I’m not sure that using our go-to grease remover would jive with the high-tech construction of the C7. Be sure to check with the manufacturer before using any detergents or additives with your wash.

Beyond simply being waterproof, I found this jacket to also make an excellent windbreaker, which was fantastic for those chilly days out on our windy roads. Adding an extra checkmark to the “all-around versatility column” of the C7’s list of can-do’s. Rated for temps as low as 41 degrees, a baselayer and long-sleeved jersey kept me pretty warm on even our coldest rainy days here. 

At the wrists, a simple stretch on the inside of the cuff keeps water out. Plus it makes for an easy slide-on over gloves. The orange detailing at the forearms makes for a cool look that is totally pro, even for a high-vis jacket. No fear of looking stupid here.

Of course, the biggest detractor to the shell is its $279 MSRP price tag that could be a budget breaker for many cyclists.

ON THE FIT

I’m normally a Medium, but I tested this in a women’s large–because I like to have a little extra room in jackets in case I want to layer. While I found it fairly roomy in the shoulders and upper body, it did fit tighter around the hips. It did tend to ride up a bit instead of sitting low across the hips as I’m used to. Of course, winter hibernation most likely had something to do with the ill-fit for me. As spring training and racing wears on, I find the jacket fits better and better.

Labeled by Gore Wear as a “slim fit,” I’d say you should definitely size up if you’re looking for roominess–especially if you consider yourself to have an hourglass figure. Since I can’t comment on the men’s fit, you’ll definitely want to check the sizing chart carefully before ordering.

WEIGHT, FEATURES, AND OTHER FACTORS

Weighing in at a feathery 108 grams, this is the lightest shell I’ve ever worn. The ultra-thin size of the jacket means that stuffing it into jersey pocket when you get too warm is super simple, and you can ride around without it feeling like it’s adding too much bulk.

A single, right-side, zippered pocket at the back, is great for storing an extra energy bar or other accessory. It was even big enough to carry my iPhone 7+. The main zipper features a long, grippy tab that is easy to zip and unzip, even in full-fingered gloves. And a full neck collar means that none of that dumb, chilly air gets in. Pretty sweet.

THE VERDICT

Overall, I am thoroughly impressed with how well the Gore Wear C7 Shakedry Viz Jacket stood up to my tests. At first, it seems impossible that such a thin and slick shell could pack such a powerful punch. But it keeps you warm without compromising breathability. It keeps you dry without effort or leaking. And it keeps you visible without ultra-bright ovations. This is a cool jacket.

Grab more info at goreapparel.com

The post Gore Wear C7 Shakedry Viz Review – Why This Rain and Wind Proof, Breathable Cycling Jacket Hits Every Mark appeared first on SLO Cyclist | An Online Road Bicycling Magazine.

A while back, Bek told me about these new cycling sunglasses and asked me to try ’em.  I have my old pair that I’m attached to, so I wasn’t too excited.  Got to say I put these through some tough tests.  Even gave them to my wife and asked her to tear ’em up.  They have taken a beating but still look like they just came out of the box.

TAKING SOME RISKS…

Trails around our home have some steep hills.  Taking one of these trails and not expecting a bend with slick rock, I took a little spill.  The sunglasses skidded off on the gravel, but showed no scratch or damage at all.  Actually I was surprised they came off, as they have stayed put through some good workouts.  They fit well over my ears and have a pad on the nose piece.  They are comfortable.  I really didn’t want to like these.

Want to see more – https://www.competitivecyclist.com/tifosi-optics

CHECK OUT THE NOSE PAD – REALLY COMFORTABLE.

HERE’S WHAT TIFOSI SAYS ABOUT THEM

The frame is what they call “Grilamid TR-90” which is a nylon material.  They are durable, and I have put them through the paces.  The company claims they are light, which is true.

The lenses are scratch-resistant and shatterproof with UVA/UVB protection.  The mirror type finish does reduce the glare as claimed.  I have given these glasses enough rough treatment they should have shown scratches or nicks.  They look like new.  The manufacturer gives a lifetime warranty against defects.   Overall, they have lived up to claims.

LIKES AND DISLIKES

These are very comfortable and have stood up to my treatment.  They come in a sunglass bag that doubles as a lense cleaner.  A handy idea.  My wife and others say they look good and are the latest style.  The white forward frame isn’t my idea of fashion though.  The blue arms are fine, but I’m not nuts about white.  But everyone, and I’ve asked all friends and family, say they look good and are the style.  While I’m riding, I don’t care much, but just out and about – not crazy for the color.  The color they sent me is ‘Frost/Powder Blue’.  I started out wanting to hate these things but instead, I am sold.  They are good.

FOR MORE ON CYCLING SUNGLASSES:

Check out  The Gear Every Beginner Cyclist Should Buy (And 3 Things You Shouldn’t)

or: http://slocyclist.com/favorite-cycling-gear-2015/

Want to reach Tifosi?  http://www.tifosioptics.com/meetswank

So I was unreasonably hard on these sunglasses and they sold me on their own,  Find a pair that suites your style and go for it.

The post SWANK SUNGLASSES BY TIFOSI appeared first on SLO Cyclist | An Online Road Bicycling Magazine.

We’ve been fans of Brooks’ Cambium range since it first launched a few years back, and we even selected the Cambium C13 one of the most comfortable saddles on the market. With their Cambium range growing, Brooks’ new All Weather (AW) versions of their popular C15 and C17 models are built to outlast the rainiest rain and the hottest heat.

Now, the AW range has expanded to include a little flair: Red, Blue, and Brown flair.

With high praise for their All Weather range, Brooks England quickly responded to riders’ requests for colors, and thus have released the new spectrum.

While we haven’t tested these claims ourselves, the Cambium C13 we put through the rigors of testing still looks as brand new as the day it arrived–and it’s not in the AW range. So, we’re inclined to believe Brooks that these will stand up to some serious weather. Plus the already-broken-in, flexible, vulcanized rubber top means this saddle should be comfy from day 1.

BROOKS ENGLAND CAMBIUM C17 ALL WEATHER COLORS TECH SPECS

LENGTH: 283mm

WIDTH: 162mm

FRAME: Fibreglass Reinforced Nylon

PRICE: $140

Available now, the Cambium C17 AW Red is the first of the three new color options released. The functional nameplate also includes loops for a saddlebag or various accessories you like to carry under your saddle.

Also a plus, these saddles are designed to match the Cambium rubber bar tape colors.

So far, these will only be available in a non-carved version. But we hope to see this cutout variation added to the lineup–definitely good for those of us who need the pressure relief.

RELEASE TIMELINES/AVAILABILITY

Cambium C17 AW RED: Available in March

Cambium C17 AW BLUE: Available in April

Cambium C17 AW BROWN: Available in May

Pick them up at Brooks England’s website now, or soon at your LBS.

The post Brooks Releases Colors in the Cambium C17 All Weather Saddle Range appeared first on SLO Cyclist | An Online Road Bicycling Magazine.

Long, long ago. At an Interbike far, far away, we tried cutting an OTTOLOCK with bolt cutters. We put dents in the outer shell of the strappy lock, but we couldn’t cut through the kevlar reinforced, stainless steel layers. Impressive.

Most impressive.

Recently, OTTO got an update, and version two features some strong new improvements, which we were able to give a full test.

OTTOLOCK BIKE CINCH LOCK TECH SPECS

After checking out the original version of the OTTOLOCK, we’ve noticed the R&D department has clearly kept their ear to the public–directly applying user feedback to their updates. Now featuring Cerakote® ceramic paint that makes for an ultra-durable, mar-free finish, and a smoother lock engagement with reinforced tip.

We tested the 30″ lock in classic OTTO Orange. But here are all the available iterations:

SIZES: 18”, 30”, 60”

COLORWAYS: Flash Green, OTTO Orange, Stealth Black

WIDTH: 18mm

MSRP: $55 (16″), $65 (30″), $75 (60″)

AVAILABILITY: OTTOLOCK Site

OTTOLOCK REVIEW

The OTTOLOCK packs a big punch in a very portable shape. Resilience is its middle name, but it’s still designed for short-term security. I found it to be perfect for those quick pit stops when you don’t want to leave your bike leaning up against the wall all by its lonesome.

Which means that cyclists on long rides can pack this little lock in their jersey pocket and feel comfortable stopping to refill bottles or hit the restroom.

At first, I wasn’t certain that the $65 price tag would be appeal to me. But after looking at similar locks in this price range, none that I found offered the type of security and portability that the OTTOLOCK boasts. Not many locks can thwart bolt-cutters like this one, and to be safe from power tools, you’re looking at a very hefty investment (pun intended). For this reason, I think the OTTOLOCK holds its ground rather well.

The real key to using any lock is knowing your surroundings and weighing your options.

EASE OF CARRYING

At 151 grams (confirmed by our official scale), the 30″ carries pretty easily in a pocket without feeling overly heavy or bulky. If you’re fond of wearing jerseys that don’t have decent elastic at the waist–say a club cut–you’ll likely find that it’s heavy enough to make your jersey sag. But for more popular race-cut fits, you won’t have a problem. The weight of the lock tends to disappear once you’re churning the pedals for a bit.

Of course, you can also pop it on your frame with the OTTO Mount, which is also pretty handy for securing all sorts of things to your frame.

And this might be the coolest thing about the OTTOLOCK–it will secure to your saddle rails, around a saddlebag, or just about anywhere you want to coil it up where it won’t get in the way of your pedal stroke.

Personally, I liked the ease of just popping it into my jersey pocket, but I like that OTTO gives me lots of options.

HOW WELL IT WORKS

While I didn’t take bolt cutters to it like last time, I did notice the overall heavy-duty feeling, and high, made in the USA quality. The band is only 3mm thick, but the kevlar is ultra tough. A definitely giant step up from cable locks.

The ratcheting-style mechanism of the lock is smooth and very quick to engage. Ultra easy to use.

The 30″ lock fits easily around a top tube and cinches to a bike rack, no problem. I was also able to wrap it through a wheel, the frame, and around a bike rack as well. It took a little more thought, but it worked! The longer, 60″ lock, should span a much greater area and lock in both wheels as well.

But for short-term pit stops, the 30″ is basically the perfect balance of size, weight, and portability.

SECURITY

Reviewing locks is a tough one, because it’s a game between owner and thief. There will always be someone out there with a new way to destroy your lock. But understanding your surroundings, locking your frame up properly to a secure bike rack, and knowing what your lock is meant to do helps you decide which security measures are the right choice for your situation. In certain parts of the country, there’s just no way I let my bike leave my side–no matter what (even if I do get some sideways glances as I lean my bike against the church pew).

With a simple combo style, the OTTOLOCK lets you easily set and re-set a 3-digit number. So, if you’re a hater of keys, this is the lock for you. But, with only 3-digits here to work with, the potential for a thief to guess your number by trial and error means you’ll not likely want to leave your bike out long term.

The OTTOLOCK is really meant for things like those jaunts into the coffee shop, when you know you really need an extra layer of protection.

LOCK MECHANISM

The push button engages without much force–after you’ve input the correct combo–then you are able to pull out or push in the ratcheting strap. It takes a little pulling, but nothing too tough. Overall the mechanism worked consistently and smoothly.

THE VERDICT

While any lock can be thwarted by thieves with their myriad of power tools and tricks, the OTTOLOCK fills a gap in the market that calls for an ultra-portable, ultra-strong lock. Cable locks have got nothing with their quick-bolt-cutters-and-they’re-done fallibility. Plus cable locks are heavy, difficult to carry, and anything but sleek. U-locks are ultra heavy and pointless to carry when you’re on a training ride. Just no competition here.

The OTTOLOCK, by comparison is a great idea for short-term security that is easier to carry than a cable lock, and ratchets closed in a flash. Perfect for an extra layer of protection on your car rack too. Because of its ease of use and weight-weenie qualities, It’s become my go-to pit-stop lock these days.

You can buy the OTTOLOCK at the official website.

The post Ottolock’s Kevlar Bike Lock Is Lightweight and Super Portable: Review appeared first on SLO Cyclist | An Online Road Bicycling Magazine.

You may have seen Silca’s Seat Roll Premio in our gift guide, and for good reason. We here at SLO Cyclist have a general love for tool wraps. Now, Silca has upped their game with a larger version of their Boa-dialed seat roll: The Grande Americano.

SILCA UNVEILS SEAT ROLL GRANDE AMERICANO

This seat roll features a three pocket design, vertical security strap, and is designed to secure to the saddle rails using the BOA closure system.  The ratcheting closure system is highly functional.   This keeps the bag, “high and tight” under the saddle.

Even over rough surfaces the bag holds and doesn’t rub your shorts.  A unique pleat in the bottom of the roll gives it the ability to expand when  loaded and more compact while unloaded.  SILCA has increased the strength and tension of the vertical axis strap to better support the load.  The strap insures silence and stability over the roughest terrains.

The new design with a lower pleat in the bottom of the roll gives the ability to expand when loaded and compacts better with less.  The increased strength and tension of the axis strap gives better support and rides solid and silent over the roughest surfaces.

The “ROLL AMERICANO” is made in the USA of water repellant 1000D Ballistic nylon.  The seat roll can hold two inner tubes. The 29″ x 2.5″ size allows it to accommodate mountain bike and gravel tubes.  You can keep two 700x62mm tubes in the roll. The BOA Closure system provides increased security and allows the roll to compact when under pressure.  A heavy duty elastic center compression strap gives added security.

The MSRP for the new supersized seat roll is $58. Get more info on Silca’s Grande Americano at their website.

The post SILCA Rolls Out Seat Roll Grande Americano: Saddle Storage Fits Two Tubes and More appeared first on SLO Cyclist | An Online Road Bicycling Magazine.