These new Adidas Velocade indoor cycling shoes transition off the bike, so you can go with the rest of your life without swapping shoes right after your workout. Mixing up sneaker and sandal styling, Adidas calls the Velocade a performance hybrid indoor cycling shoe that doesn’t have to get stuck only on the stationary bike. Why not work out in a shoe you can wear around the house, around the office, or even around town to get a post-workout coffee…

Adidas Velocade walkable mesh indoor cycling shoes

We’re always quite curious to see new cycling shoes from Adidas. With a storied cycling history on the biggest road racing stage, the off-road power of the Five Ten legacy in-house, plus more and more gravel & lifestyle cycling options, the athletic shoe & sportswear behemoth is really dipping their toe back in the cycling market.

Their latest shoe is this Adidas Velocade clipless indoor trainer shoe. This bright green variation looks almost like the rider is wearing sandals over white socks. But, the all-black or white shoes look much more like a normal sneaker. Easily something you could wear off the bike, assuming you don’t click when you walk.

“Velocade is our answer to two of the most common barriers athletes face when trying to fit in a high-quality workout: time and equipment. The ‘hidden’ two-bolt cleat means no more awkward and noisy walks between the changing room, bike and smoothie bar and no waiting to change footwear. Whether it’s high intensity workouts in the gym or your home, commuting, or going on adventures in new places, we are passionate about helping more people to clip in to the power of cycling. With Velocade we have focused on delivering this for the indoor cycling enthusiast – helping them to maximise not just their workouts but how they move through their whole routine.”

– Ben Herath, VP Design, adidas Specialist Sports

Tech details

Adidas specifically created the Velocade for versatility – on- and off the bike – much like their Velosamba. But the Velocade leans more towards the performance side of the equation. With a 2/3-length fiber-reinforced nylon midsole plate for pedaling efficiency on 2-bolt MTB cleats. Those most often used on stationary bikes at the gym. Outside of that though, the rest of the shoe is flexible for comfortable walkability, especially the heel.

The trick to crossing over, the shoes feature a long, deep cleat pocket surrounded by a street shoe tread. That’s something I’ve seen done well, or not so well. Not having ridden these (or the Velosambas), I can only rely on anecdotes that say Adidas did a good job of keeping at least SPD cleats from hitting the ground as you walk.

Reasonably light at 230g (claimed) per shoe. The Velocade features a light-vented mesh ‘sock’ upper with one big strap that zig-zags across the top. And there’s just a single velcro patch at the end to adjust fit.

Adidas Velocade – Pricing, options & availability

The new Adidas Velocade shoes sell for $130 / 150€, and are available now in Crystal Jade white & neon green, Carbon black, and Grey One white & silver. They come in unisex US half-sizing from US M5-11/W6-12. Find them in a select number of retailers, or direct from Adidas in your own country.

adidas.com/US/cycling-shoes or adidas.de/radfahren, for example

The post Adidas Velocade Indoor Trainer Shoes Power Your Clipless Workout & Walk Off-the-Bike appeared first on Bikerumor.

Switzerland’s Stromer, known for their high-end long-range electric bicycles, is bringing an updated e-commuter to North America this month. The ST5 Pinion is a new version of the company’s ST5 model, offering significant upgrades like a Pinion gearbox, wireless Smart.Shift gear shifting, and front brakes with ABS.

The ST5 Pinion is a top-tier e-commuter that provides Stromer’s typically long range (110 miles max), among the other technologically advanced features listed above. Consumers can purchase the ST5 Pinion by the end of the month, but Stromer has two complete models in the USA for show. One will be displayed at the CABDA Expo in Chicago next month if you’re in the area.

Stromer ST5 Pinion: Updates

Calling it “the executive among speed pedelecs”, the ST5 Pinion is an updated version of Stromer’s ST5 model boasting top-tier components and features. The most notable upgrade is the 9-speed Pinion C 1.9i gearbox, which is connected to an electronic Pinion Smart.Shift system via a Gates carbon drive belt. If you’re not familiar, with the Smart.Shift system is Pinion’s electronic push-button shifter. It does not offer automatic gear shifting, but gears can be changed while riding, under load, or at a standstill.

The ST5 Pinion also gets an anti-lock (ABS) front brake system from BluBrake, to reduce the chance of front-wheel skidding (especially in wet or slippery conditions).

The new model now includes the Stromer Sound module. The module provides acoustic notification signals indicating things like start-up, shut down, battery level, cruise control, and more.

Finally, the updated ST5 Pinion gets a new recyclable carbon-reinforced polyamide front fender. The fender can be mounted in ‘long’ or ‘short’ positions using the provided adapters.

ST5 Pinion: Key Specs

The ST5 Pinion is built on an aluminum frame, covered by a 10-year warranty. There are three sizes available (M/L/XL). A rigid aluminum fork comes stock, but a suspension fork is an upgrade option, as is a suspension seatpost. These accessories are shown in the title photo – check out Stromer’s website for add-on info. The ST5 Pinion rolls on 27.5” wheels.

The ST5 Pinion is a Class 3 ebike, providing pedal assist up to 28mph. It’s driven by a SYNO Sport 750w rear hub motor, which offers 48Nm of torque. The motor’s Sport mode offers an extra powerful setting when you need lots of boost.

A 48V, 983Wh battery provides a lengthy range of up to 110 miles. The battery can be ejected with the push of a button, and it fully charges in 5 hours 30 minutes.

The ST5 Pinion’s top tube mounted on-board display shows your key info and ride metrics. The Stromer OMNI app allows you to adjust motor settings and enables Bluetooth unlocking/locking. The app also lets you see all the info the top tube display shows on your smartphone too. The bike uses cellular network connectivity for features like GPS localization, Smartlock, etc.

In addition to Stromer’s integrated daylight, the ST5 Pinion includes a Supernova M99 Pro 2 headlight (1600 lumen max). Out back you’ll find a Supernova M99 tail light with a brake light function. Stromer also includes an integrated horn.

Components:

Electronics aside, some key components on the ST5 Pinion include Stromer branded 4-piston brakes (made by TRP) with 203mm rotors front and rear. The 27.5” wheels get Pirelli Angel ST Sport tires in ERTRO size 57-584 (roughly 2.25” wide).

For the cockpit, Stromer supplies their own handlebar/stem combo, which includes a bracket to mount your smartphone to the stem. Not skimping on touchpoints, Stromer gave this bike Brooks Cambium ergonomic grips, and a Selle Royal Vivo saddle. Stromer also includes pedals and side mirrors with each bike.

The ST5 Pinion launched in Europe last month and will be available for purchase in North America by the end of January. This model will initially come in a launch edition Imperial Red color, but later production models will be Aventurine Green. MSRP is $11,990.

stromerbike.com

The post Stromer Releases the Gearbox Equipped ST5 Pinion e-Commuter in North America appeared first on Bikerumor.

If you’re familiar with Priority Bicycles, you’ll know the company specializes in low-maintenance urban bikes that feature Gates belt-driven drivetrains. The Eight was first released in 2016 as a commuter bike, but the model was later revised into a fully featured, all-season commuter called the Continuum Onyx. Priority is now releasing an all-new Eight, which has evolved into a sport hybrid bike.

The new Eight was created to offer a balance of speed and comfort. This bike is ideal for fitness, recreational riding, and commuting. As with all of Priority’s bikes, the Eight is built with durability in mind and with very little maintenance required.

Back in 2017, I received a Priority Continuum for testing, and the company let me keep for long-term testing. After plenty of riding and several winters of storage under my home, the bike is still running great with basically no maintenance.

Priority Eight- Drivetrain:

The Eight’s name comes from the bike’s 8-speed internally geared Shimano Alfine rear hub. The hub provides a 307% gear range, which Priority says is ample for climbing hills and recreational cruising. The Alfine hub is sealed to protect its internals from the elements. Gear changes are controlled by a trigger shifter, and the Alfine hub can change gears while riding or at a standstill.

As with all of Priority’s bikes, the hub is driven by a low-maintenance Gates Carbon Drive Belt. Gates’ drive belts last 2-3x longer than standard chains, require no lubrication and offer a smooth pedaling experience. Priority equips the small frames with 170mm crank arms but jumps to 175mm arms for medium and large bikes.

Frame and Components:

The Eight offers a 6061 aluminum frame with a carbon fiber fork. The bike rolls on 700x32c WTB Slick tires, which are puncture-resistant and include reflective sidewalls. The Eight gets 32-spoke, double-walled aluminum rims with a sealed bearing hub in the front wheel.

174HUDSON dual-piston hydraulic disc brakes with 160mm rotors ensure powerful, all-weather stopping performance (Please note – Tektro brakes are shown in the photos). CORRECTION: The Eight is in fact equipped with Tektro brakes, Priority’s website had the 174HUDSON brakes listed in error.

The Eight gets a 620mm wide aluminum handlebar, and stems are either 80mm reach (small frame) or 90mm (medium and large frames).

Along with the carbon fork, a carbon seatpost helps absorb vibrations to offer a comfortable ride. Priority equips the Eight with the highly popular WTB Volt saddle. Silicone foam grips also help absorb road vibrations.

Priority includes pedals on the Eight, and they’re not a budget plastic set – You get aluminum platform pedals with chromoly spindles.

The Eight’s frame includes multiple braze-on mounts for racks, fenders (which are not included on this model), child seats, and water bottles. An aluminum kickstand is also included.

Weight for the complete Eight is listed at just 27 lbs, so it won’t be too difficult to haul it upstairs or load onto a bike rack.

Geometry/Sizing:

The Eight is available in three frame sizes – small (17”), medium (19”), and large (21”), which should cover riders from 5’2” to 6’3”. Its sporty yet comfortable geometry offers an upright riding position to minimize strain on your shoulders and back.

Pricing and Shipping/Assembly Options:

MSRP for the new Eight is $999, but until January 21^st Priority is offering a ‘launch special’ price of $899 through their website.

Customers can pick up their bike fully assembled from Priority’s showroom in Tribeca NY, have bikes shipped to and assembled by any Beeline Connect affiliated bike shop (for an additional $130), or opt for home delivery (for $30).

If you choose home delivery, Priority includes all the tools needed to finish assembling the bike. The process should take about 20 minutes, and walkthrough videos on Priority’s website can assist with assembly. Priority bikes can be delivered to anywhere in the continental USA within a week.

prioritybicycles.com

The post Priority Bicycles Reintroduces the Belt-Driven Eight as a Sport Hybrid appeared first on Bikerumor.

MET’s latest E-Mob cycling helmet isn’t ultralight or ultra aero. Instead, it’s an affordable urban commuter helmet with premium fit, security, a built-in taillight, and with or without a MIPS liner for additional security. Plus, it still manages to be one of the lightest high-speed e-bike-certified helmets you can get…

MET E-Mob MIPS urban ebike commuter helmet

At first glance, this new MET E-Mob looks like a pretty average vented city commuter helmet. But take a closer look. With a lot of high-quality tech & protection inside, plus demanding S-pedelec ebike safety certification, this could be one of the best affordable helmets out there for ebikers and city commuters.

Tech Details

The new MET E-Mob is a good looking commuter helmet, with 17decent-sized vents. It gets industry standard EPS construction with a piece in-mold polycarbonate. Yet it also offers a bit of extended rear coverage for the back of your head too.

A 360° retention dial manages fit and adjustment, with removable, washable pads. There’s an anti-pinch buckle with a chin strap pad, and ant-insect mesh across the front vents.

There’s reflective detailing front & rear. And at the back, MET includes a LED taillight (steady, pulse & blinkie modes) that you snap out of the helmet to recharge via USB.

The new MET E-Mob helmet is NTA 8776 certified for high-speed 45kph speed pedelec ebike use, either with or without the optional additional MIPS liner protection. That means it needed to offer more head coverage AND be able to dissipate more energy than a regular helmet in an accident. The helmets also meet the more basic US & CE certifications, too.

MET E-Mob helmet – Pricing, options & availability

MET offers the new E-Mob MIPS helmet for 110€ in three sizes S-L (52-61cm) in 8 muted colors. Claimed weights for the MIPS-equipped helmets range from 330g for a small, to 365g for M & 395g for large. Not exactly featherweight, but as light or lighter than almost every other NTA 8776 helmet we’ve seen.

Plus, there’s the more basic helmet without the anti-rotational liner sells for just 80€, and generally about 45g lighter (290-350g). And that one is still NTA 8776 certified, in the same colors, just minus the yellow liner.

Both are available now. And either way you look at it, MET’s new E-mob commuter helmet is one of the lightest e-bike certified helmets on the market. And offers extra protection for anyone riding a bike in the city.

MET-helmets.com

The post MET E-Mob MIPS Urban Bike Helmet Mixes Advanced Protection, Visibility & Affordability appeared first on Bikerumor.

Flat pedal riders will get a kick out of this. How about a new flat pedal that uses a “breakthrough technology” of self/centering, flat floating, and is truly clipless? Meet the 8 Degree Floating Pedal.

The press release claims that the 8 Degree Floating Pedal adapts to each rider’s biomechanics by allowing the rider to angle their feet. This, in turn, would/could reduce the risk of discomfort or injury associated with a fixed position on a pedal.

The “breakthrough” tech is versatile and can work for road and MTB cyclists, BMX, home/gym workouts, or recreational riders. They offer an adjustable range of float from -4 degrees to +4 degrees. This allows the cyclist to fine-tune the pedals to meet their specific needs. This would also make it a breeze to use the same pedals for different bikes, making it a pretty flexible pedal.

You might be thinking, why would need float on a pedal where you’re not clipped in? If you’re running mountain bike shoes with tacky soles, or even just pedals with aggressive pins and normal shoes, it can be hard to move your foot around on the pedal. This pedal would allow you to keep your feed “locked in” on the traction pins, while still allowing for float. Similarly to clipless pedals, that float could make your pedal stroke more comfortable by putting less stress on your joints. That was the idea behind the Funn Hover pedal concept back in 2015.

How It Works

Let me try to explain this. Once you put your foot on the pedal, the pedal will be able to pivot laterally +/- 4 degrees by swiveling the whole pedal body on its spindle, gliding back and forth on an internal rod with springs on either side providing the tension.

I don’t know if that makes any sense, but you can see the pedal work in the video above.

Features

• 8-Degree Float: Offers an 8-degree float for comfortable foot movement
• Innovative Design: Unique flat pedal technology
• Self-Centering: Automatically returns to the neutral position
• No Special Gear Required: Works with standard shoes
• Wide Float Range: Pivots laterally +/- 4 degrees
• Comfort and Efficiency: Reduces strain, and pressure points, and enhances pedal efficiency
• Injury Reduction: Alleviates the risk of strain by promoting natural leg movement
• Versatile: Suitable for all cycling disciplines

Currently, there is no word on when these pedals will be available or the retail price. The press release mentioned that they are in the final stages of testing to meet international safety standards. Check the link below to join their newsletter so you can get yours when they drop.

8DegreePedal.com

The post A Flat Pedal with Float? 8-Degree Pedal Offers Actual Float with Normal Shoes appeared first on Bikerumor.

German carbon specialist Bike Ahead Composites has two new versions of their iconic monocoque 6-spoke carbon BiTurbo wheels. 1 for heavier riders, ebikes & eMTB and the other for cargo bikes, believe it or not! Plus, all-new lightweight carbon XC bars for mountain bikers hunting the sleekest integrated electronic shift setup on the planet…

Bike Ahead Biturbo X & X.E carbon wheels for ebike & eMTB

Bike Ahead had already adapted their classic ultralight 6-spoke monocoque carbon Biturbo wheels for heavier use applications all the way back in 2017/2018 as the biturbo-E. But they’ve updated the concept with updated rim & spoke shapes for increased strength and much wider internal rim widths for modern tires. Plus, there are now lighter X & extra-strong X.E versions that cover everything from heavier riders, lighter ebikes, and the more bulky full-power long-range eMTBs.

Now, these new 24.5mm deep tubeless Bike Ahead Biturbo X wheels grow to 33mm internal for 29ers or a full 35mm for 27.5″ wheels. The standard Biturbo X features a generous rider+gear weight limit of 115kg/254lb. Bike Ahead says that’s perfect for taller & heavier riders, plus riders on the latest crop of lightweight eMTBs. The Xes weigh about 330g more than the ultralight Biturbo RS XC wheels. But are rated for smashing much rougher trails.

And if you ride a heavier full-power, big battery gravity ebike, there’s also a Biturbo X.E version that adds another 300g of carbon reinforcement. Those X.Es up the weight limit to 130kg/287lb.

Pick from 12×100, 15mm Boost & Lefty Ocho spacing up front, and standard or Boost thru-axle compatibility out back, all with standard DT Swiss Hybrid ebike hub internals.

Weight claims for complete wheelsets range from 1530g for Biturbo X 27.5″ or 1580g for 29″, up to 1830g for Biturbo X.E 27.5″ or 1880g for 29″ variants. Both Bike Ahead Biturbo X & X.E, made entirely in Germany, retail for the same 3600€.

Biturbo Cargo ultralight, ultra-strong carbon wheels for cargo bikes

The Bike Ahead Biturbo Cargo project has been running for a few years. Together with custom cargo bike shop Kvirder in Frankfurt. Back then, Kvirder asked Bike Ahead founder Christian Gemperlein if he would consider making a cargo version of the Biturbo. And he jumped at the idea. By 2022, they’d built a wheel tough enough to pass DIN testing for heavier cargo bikes and high-speed cargo pedelec ebikes. And shed a lot of weight vs. conventional alloy cargo bike wheelsets, often over 2kg for a set.

Now the ultralight, ultra-strong Biturbo Cargos are ready for you!

The Bike Ahead Biturbo Cargo wheelset pairs a 20″ front wheel to a 26″ rear wheel. Bo both with a 26mm hookless tubeless internal rim width. Bike Ahead designed them for especially heavy loads, rated for up to 220kg/485lb – including rider, bike, AND cargo. But they are still really lightweight. The 6-spoke carbon front wheel is just 635g, the rear 900g, for a complete wheelset of only 1535g.

Bike Ahead says their design with most of the rotating mass located near the center of the wheel is especially well suited for the start-and-stop riding dynamic of a cargo bike. They go as far as to say that upgrading to these wheels “not only saves leg power, but also battery capacity on e-bikes“.

Wildly light full-carbon monocoque cargo bike wheels made in Germany don’t come cheap, though. They sell for the same 3600€ as many of the other Biturbos. But, there’s probably no way to make your cargo bike as cool looking. At least, not without sacrificing load carrying function than these sick wheels!

Bike Ahead Wonderbar integrated carbon mountain bike bar

Developed for mountain bike riders looking for a cleaner cockpit setup and more cable integration. The carbon Bike Ahead Wonderbar is then a zero or negative-rise XC bar for the discerning mountain biker. According to Bike Ahead it was created “in close cooperation with [their] community” to integrate some of the latest and most advanced electronic shifter solutions, like: SRAM Blips, Zirbel Twister, or CyberGrips.

The Wonderbar uses recessed cable grooves with holes at the grip areas. There’s also a pass through hole at the stem to allow for hidden internal wire routing. And it uses Bike Ahead’s patented ‘NSA rubber coating’ at the clamping areas for low torque grip without the need for friction paste.

The matte UD finished Bike Ahead Wonderbar sells for 269€. It features 8.5° backsweep, no upsweep, and a 0mm/-9.5mm ride depending on how you flip it. The bar is 720mm wide with a 31.8mm clamping area, and a claimed weight of just 144g. Max rider weight is 105kg/231lb (including any rider-mounted gear).

Bike-Ahead-Composites.de

The post Bike Ahead BiTurbo X & Cargo Adapt 6-spoke Carbon Wheels for ebikes, plus new Wonderbar appeared first on Bikerumor.

For many of us, winter’s here. If you find yourself staring out into colder streets, your summer commuter tires aren’t the best option for when it gets cold, wet, and soupy. Bloomington, Minnesota’s 45NRTH knows cold and wet, and may have the perfect tire with Latkat – a commuter-specific tire to help you keep the rubber side down when road conditions are the opposite of ideal.

45NRTH says the Latkat offers predictable performance on cold, wet roads thanks to their Gripkraft rubber compound. Note that the Latkat is specifically a non-studded winter tire. If you want or need studs, check out their Gravdal or Xerxes tires.

The Gripkraft compound provides “extra grip and control in wet conditions, making LatKat the best road bike tire for winter conditions”. This tire should allow the rider to “stick” to the ground while carrying more speed with more confidence. In addition to the rubber compound meant for colder conditions, the tread pattern has a huge number of sipes and grooves to channel water, slush, and snow away from the tread blocks for increased grip.

The new Latkat is a 700c x 40mm, foldable, tubeless compatible tire that is optimized for a rim with a 20-25mm internal width. Latkat offers “bead to bead” puncture protection and runs a 60tpi casing.

New Latkat Features and Retail

Retail: $70

• Siped and grooved tread grips well in wet conditions
• Gripkraft winter rubber compound boosts performance on wet roads
• Tubeless-ready and supple ride quality, more grip. and weight savings
• 60 TPI casing
• Bead-to-bead puncture protection means you won’t be changing flats in the cold
• *Not recommended for power assist bikes as the additional torque and system weight can lead to premature casing wear*
• Always check with your rim manufacturer to verify rim and tire compatibility before assembly or use

45nrth.com

The post 45NRTH’s New Latkat Commuter Tire Gives Confidence on Cold, Wet Roads appeared first on Bikerumor.

Greg LeMond just wants to go fast. That’s as apparent now as it was during the height of his racing career. Only these days, you’ll often find Greg riding a bike with a motor. 

Like so many unexplainable moments in my life, I find myself riding next to Greg on an ebike bearing his name. We’re in Sarasota, Florida on the arrow-straight Legacy Trail. And despite starting at a conversational pace, Greg slyly asks, “anyone want to go a little faster?”

With a mischievous grin, and a press of the button on the top tube, Greg starts to ratchet up the pace until taking off into a full-on sprint (as much as one can on an ebike without ever leaving the saddle). Seiji from GearJunkie takes off behind Greg, so of course I jump on behind Seiji – how many times in your life will you have Greg LeMond as a lead-out? 

After the next street crossing, things calm down a bit, but only just. Returning to a conversational pace, you can feel Greg slowly winding up the pace, clearly just so happy to be out riding a bike. Any Bike. But especially one of his own ebikes.

The Power of eBikes

Sure, Greg LeMond is one of the greatest American cyclists of all time, but he’s still human. Just earlier that day, Greg casually mentioned he was recently diagnosed with cancer. Specifically, a type of Leukemia that usually stems from heavy metals or chemicals in the body. As he puts it, it’s no surprise thanks to the amount of lead still in his body from the hunting accident in 1987. But thanks to a new cancer drug, he says he’s feeling better than he has in years. 

But it’s not all thanks to pharmaceuticals. That’s the power of the ebike. This is not the first time that Greg has gotten back on the bike with a little assistance. Years ago, a car accident left him bedridden for three months with a broken back. Again, it was an ebike that he attributes to his return to form, noting the first time he tried one it left him feeling like the bionic man.

Pointing out that ebikes aren’t just for transportation, Greg likes to say that his ebikes are racing bikes disguised as regular bikes. It feels like that when you’re on one. Stating that “cycling can be unenjoyable if you’re not in shape, these bikes can turn someone into a cyclist,” he’s also quick to point out that to be into the sport for the long haul, it has to be fun. 

LeMond eBikes

It’s hard not to have fun on a ride with a former 2x World Champion and 3x Tour de France winner, but the LeMond ebikes crank it up a notch. For this ride, I was aboard the LeMond Prolog – the flat bar road bike that weighs around 26lbs. The day before I had a chance to get out on a longer ride on the Prolog AR, which is the dropbar gravel-oriented version of the Prolog, though it’s just as capable on the road as well. 

Other riders were on the third Lemond model, the Dutch. Of all of the bikes, the Dutch may be the most impressive when it comes to the weight. If you’re used to the typical Dutch bike, the LeMond version is comically light at 27lbs. It’s light and allows a fully upright riding style at speed. 

LeMond ebikes were first introduced in 2020, just as the world was swept up by the Covid pandemic. Understandably off to a slow start, the first Prolog and Dutch models were delivered in 2021. The following year in 2022, LeMond Bicycles was separated from the LeMond Composites business with Rick Adams named as CEO of LeMond Bicycles. Most recently in 2023, the company relocated to their current facility in Knoxville, TN where we’re told that many projects are in the works.

LeMond eBikes by the Numbers:

• Weight – 26-27lbs
• Sizes – S, M, L
• Range – 40-70 miles
• Power – 250 watts
• Assistance – Class 1 maximum assistance 20mph
• Drive system – Mahle X-35
• Frames – carbon fiber
• Visibility – Integrated front and rear lights
• Colors – Blanc, Noir, or Rosa
• Pricing: Starts at $5,495
• Extras – Carbon Wheels, Electronic Shifting, Carbon Fenders, Kick Stand, Range extender battery

Using the Latest Technology to His Advantage

Hang around Greg or people who know him long enough, and it’s clear that he has this insatiable need to understand and utilize the latest technology. That’s just as clear today as it was when LeMond used aerobars to win the 1989 Tour de France.

When discussing the design process of LeMond ebikes, Director of Product Development Bill Stephens mentioned that, “Greg has stronger opinions about bottom bracket drop than any engineer I worked with.” He went on to say that Greg is involved in every detail of the build and “obsessed with the design.” These aren’t just stock bikes with LeMond’s name on the downtube.

Equipped with the Mahle x-35 drive system, the LeMond ebikes look more like regular bikes. But with a weight that will make most people question if it’s actually an ebike. This was no accident. Greg says he wanted bikes that looked like normal but rode like you were having your best day ever.

Much of that ability to pass as a normal bike comes from the use of a hub motor, smaller battery, and Bill Stephens’ design work. You may not know Bill’s name, but you definitely know his work. From Yeti to Niner, Bill has designed or co-designed some of the most iconic bikes in the industry, and now he’s working full-time for LeMond Bikes.

Wheel Street Grand Opening

While LeMond’s new headquarters are in Knoxville, TN, we were invited down to Florida as part of the grand opening of LeMond’s first U.S. dealer – Wheel Street Bikes. Located right on the bustling Tamiami Drive in downtown Sarasota, Wheel Street is a joint venture between Jeff Rosenberg and BMX legend Termite Hudson.

Envisioning the ability to bring your bicycle fantasies to life, Wheel Street is a cool little shop with great interior design. The shop combines Termite’s legendary wheel-building services with a showroom for Cervelo, Santa Cruz, Electra, and of course, LeMond. Wheel Street also serves as a sales point for Atomik Carbon wheels which can be custom-built on-site (with the exception of Berd spoke models).

Legacy Trail

Not far from Termite’s Wheel Street, we got to sample the bikes on the newly-completed Legacy trail. Adding to the rail trail success stories across the country, the Legacy Trail has an interesting bit of history. The trail was built on the railroad corridor that the Ringling Brothers Circus used in the past to bring their animals to their winter home in Venice, FL.

Built at a cost of $65 million, the trail is currently 24 miles with additional spurs for ride options. Originally off-limits to ebikes, ebikes are now allowed and governed by the ebike rules used by the National Park Service. Additionally, the trail corridor was built double-wide so that a parallel path for walkers can be added.

Going Fast, Having Fun

The portion of the trail we rode was mostly a straight line. But getting to the trail and riding around downtown Sarasota provided more chances to see how the bikes handled – which is one of the areas these bikes really stand out. With comfortable yet sporty geometry and without the typical ebike heft, the LeMond ebikes are an absolute joy to ride. Almost immediately I was hopping curbs, weaving through cones, and finding off-road ‘shortcuts’. Completely forgetting the fact that I was even on an ebike because I was having too much fun.

While the riding was fairly short, more than anything it provided us insight into why Greg is doing what he’s doing. LeMond Bikes still has other things in the works (like the long-awaited road bike), but it’s clear that Greg has a real passion for his ebikes, stating, “I really believe in e-bikes, [and] the power of e-bikes to change people’s lives.”

For Greg, that means going fast again. For everyone, it’s simply a fun way to get back on a bike.

LeMond.com

The post For Greg LeMond, eBikes are the Fountain of Youth appeared first on Bikerumor.

If your favorite cyclist rides to and from work or school, or just uses their bike to get around town, the market, or the store, these are some of the best gifts for bike commuters to make their lives easier (and safer) no matter how they’re using their bike.

And if you’re treating yourself this holiday season, be sure to also check out our Commuter Cycling Buyer’s Guide for more great selections for the hardcore commuter. No matter which list you pull from, every item we recommend has been approved by one of our editors…

Best Gifts for Bike Commuters Under $25

Consider this price point to be our suggestion for those who just started commuting and need the essentials. Every cyclist needs a few basic repair items, and these make great stocking stuffers: Park Tool Tire Lever & Patch Kit ($8, at REI), for fixing flats, and the Crank Brothers M10 Mini Tool ($18, at REI) for fixing everything else. We especially like this tool’s longer bits, making it much easier to use, yet still compact.

SockGuy’s Wool Socks ($15.95, at REI) come in a ton of fun colors and designs. These are affordable while also adding variety and most importantly, comfort. Their Turbowool line is stronger than Merino wool and has superior moisture-wicking capabilities that help keep your feet warm in winter and cool in summer. If you get the Turbowool socks with some padding and arch support, your feet will be extra happy!

How about a bandana? No need to rush with the Party Pace Bandana ($15, at Path Less Pedaled). It’s the perfect companion for all of your commutes and errand running. On hot days, wrap it around your neck to keep the sun and sweat at bay. Or, you can just keep it with you to aid in all sorts of on and off-the-bike activities. Lay it down to place your croissant on it for a nice #coffeeoutside experience, or simply use it to wipe your face after a big sip of your latte. With this versatile bandana, the possibilities are endless. The bandana uses US-sourced materials and is printed in Chico, California. It is 21″ x 21″. Colors available are, “Cool Breeze” (sage/navy) and “Spicy Mustard” (deep orange/brown).

The VeloToze Roam Shoe Covers ($9, at Amazon) are a rubber slip-on shoe cover that protects your dress shoes or sneakers from water, mud – whatever. They’re reusable and fairly durable, and even a great way to just keep your feet a bit warmer on a winter commute. They’re grippy, so you can walk in them easily, and they come in stealthy black and hi-vis yellow. These won’t last forever, so it’s always a good gift idea so that they have a few pairs!

Best Commuter Gifts Under $50

The Delta hexAir Saddle Cover ($35 at Amazon) was one of the most surprisingly awesome things we’ve tested in the category. Not only does it provide a waterproof cover for your bike seat, but it’s also super comfortable! Got a road or gravel bike you’re commuting on that has a “performance” saddle? The hexAir makes it comfortable without padded bike shorts, turning almost any bike into a commuter bike.

Safety is a concern for cyclists who navigate to work when (what seems like) the rest of the world is doing the same thing but in cars. You gotta keep your head on a swivel. The EVT Helmet Safe Zone ($40, from Rivendell Bicycle Works)is the way to do that. This mirror installs in seconds to the outside of your helmet. It is made in the good ol’ USA, and only weighs 1.5oz. It’s a well-thought-out product that could easily save your life… it’s a (concrete) jungle out there! One size fits all.

Another “cover-up” that’ll make it super easy to commute on a road, gravel, or mountain bike with clipless pedals is the Pocket Pedals Adapter ($30, available direct). It slips over SPD and SPD-SL pedals, making it easy to ride with regular shoes without having to change your performance pedals for those around-town rides.

With a metal base and body, easy-to-read 2″ gauge, and long 42″ hose, the Specialized Air Tool Sport Floor Pump ($50, at Specialized) is a bargain. We’ve been using one of their pumps for a while and it’s become a go-to for quick top-offs and pressure checks thanks to the simplicity of the SwitchHitter head that works on Presta and Schrader automatically. Bonus points that it works great for road, gravel, and kids’ bikes, too!

Best Gifts for Bike Commuters Under $150

No matter what you (or your favorite commuter) think they need, the more they ride, the more they’ll get to know all the little things that make their rides better. Or just get them back on the bike, like a replacement tube, a new tire, or fresh grips. Maybe even just a tune-up to get an older bike back in top shape. For that, nothing beats your Local Bike Shop! A gift card is one of the best gifts for bike commuters and it supports a local business!

When it comes to being seen while riding your bicycle, the Arclight City Pedals ($140, at Amazon) are a game-changer. They amplify your biological motion (pedaling) making you up to 57% more visible than standard bike lights alone. You won’t just be more visible, you’ll be recognizable as a cyclist. The pedals use powerful LEDs and long-lasting rechargeable batteries. The Arclights use “smart-tech” to sense movement and provide auto-on and off, as well as auto light configuration (red = rear, white = front). No matter how the pedal rotates, it knows which way is front and which is rear. They are available in an SPD-compatible version if you’d rather clip in.

Every commuter bike, whether it’s a dedicated city bike or a converted road/gravel bike, needs fenders. And while we like smaller stick-on options in a pinch, the SKS Veloflexx 55 ($69, on REI) set provides full coverage in a universal design that will work on almost any standard bike with round tubes…and even on suspension forks.

The PDW Everyday Rear Rack ($104, at Amazon) extends backward to ensure any panniers will clear your heels as you pedal, and an integrated wood rack adds a touch of class and makes it easier to strap things to the top, too. Both this and the basket below do require your bike to have rack mounts built into the frame, so double-check before ordering.

The Wald 1392 Front Basket ($55, at Amazon) pulls double duty, letting you mount it to the front OR rear of your bike…or put one on both ends! With an 18×13″ footprint and, despite its skinny appearance, a 15lb payload capacity, it’s more than enough for most grocery bags and beer runs and works with popular bags like these…

Best Commuter Gifts Under $250

For carrying groceries and gear, we’ve got three bags to recommend, depending on what you’re carrying. The smallest is the Swift Industries Sugarloaf ($183, at Swift, top right). They’re perfect mini-duffels for a change of clothes, a tool kit, or a picnic. At 14x7x7″, you can nest two of them into the Blackburn rack listed above, too.

For an all-purpose bag that has external pockets for small stuff and a cavernous interior that’s perfect for groceries and farmer’s market hauls, the Surly PorteurHouse ($120, 16×11 base, 15.7″ tall, at Surly Bikes, bottom left) is just the right size.

If you want something insulated for real grocery runs, or to keep drinks chilly on the way to the party, the Hydro Flask Day Escape 18L Tote ($150, 20x8x12″, at Backcountry) will easily hold a gallon of milk, a six-pack, eggs, and more, and the soft sides will mash into that rack, too.

The Ortlieb Back-Roller Free Panniers ($195/pair, at Backcountry) are some of the best pannier bags on the market. Ortlieb’s known for making incredibly durable, totally waterproof bags, and these oversized versions give provide tons of capacity when you need it, and cinch down when you don’t. They clip onto standard rear bike racks, so you’ll need a rack on the bike to use them.

The Kryptonite KryptoLock 685 Folding Lock ($100 at Backcountry) comes with a handy frame mount for easy transport, and gives you a quick (and conveniently compact) way to secure your bike and front wheel to a rack. It’s covered by their lifetime warranty, and even covers your bike against theft!

Also from Kryptonite, the Incite X8 & XBR Light Set ($170/set, at Competitive Cyclist) puts out an intelligently-shaped headlight beam that illuminates the area you need to see for safely navigating dark streets. Side illumination helps cars see you as they approach from side streets, and the rear blinky light has multiple modes that use an accelerometer to automatically turn it bright and solid (like a brake light!) when you slow down. Read our full review here.

If you’re going to commute year ’round, there are gonna be “those days” when the weather turns on you. The Duer All Weather Jeans ($200, from Duer, in Men’s and Women’s cuts) look and wear like regular denim, but have a weatherproof membrane to keep you dry. Available in Heritage Rinse (dark blue) and Black in tons of sizes and lengths, their Coolmax, Lycra, and cotton blend with reflective accents under the cuff makes them a perfect 4-season pant.

Best Gifts for Bike Commuters Over $250

If you live somewhere rainy, then good wet-weather cycling kit is worth spending a bit more on. Shower’s Pass is among the best, and their Syncline CC Jacket ($145 at REI, in men’s and women’s versions) is one of their more affordable models that keeps all the key features like taped seams and zippered vents. Pair it with the Transit Pants ($135 at REI, in men’s and women’s versions) for head-to-ankle waterproofness that’ll have you seeking out the puddles!

When safety doesn’t have a price restriction, upgrading to a dynamo wheelset, and dynamo front and rear lights is the best upgrade you can make to your commuter rig. The Dynamo Upgrade Lighting System ($570, from Handsome Cycles) front wheel uses the best hub (Son 28) and dynamo light (Busch & Mueller Lumotec IQ-XS) on the market. The rim on the wheel is for bikes that use rim brakes. The rea light feeds from the energy going to the front dynamo light. You’ll never need to worry about battery life or riding in the dark when you forget your light or forget to charge it. The lights will stay on the bike in a more permanent manner and will be there lighting the way day or night. Be seen, stay safe!

If you’ve got the space and budget for it, we’ve found that having a purpose-built commuter bike makes it far easier and enjoyable to run errands, get to work, go on dates, and just scoot around town without the car.

The Aventon Level.2 ($1,499, at Aventon) is all you need to get started. It comes with fenders, front suspension, a rear rack, lights, and your choice of standard or step-thru frames. It’s a highly affordable pedal-assisted alternative to driving and even has a throttle for those times when you just don’t feel like pedaling – though we find that the throttle is more useful than most walk assist modes when walking the bike (especially loaded).

For hauling the kids or bigger shopping trips, the Specialized Globe Haul LT ($3,500 at Specialized) is a great pick. We’ve carried two small kids to school with it, hit the farmer’s market, and even managed Costco runs on this. It’s big, but if you need capacity and quality, it’s the one to beat. Bonus points for its adjustability, meaning almost everyone in your household can ride it!

The post The Best Gifts for Bike Commuters appeared first on Bikerumor.

New Zealand’s own Aeroe, the manufacturer of the award-winning and user-friendly Spider bike rack/carrier system, has released a new way to carry your pannier. The new Spider Pannier Rack is designed specifically to help make your everyday commuting easier while adding more bag-carrying security.

The new Spider Pannier Rack and Spider Pannier Reciever have all of the functionality of their Spider Rear Rack, with the added ability to accept any brand of pannier bag making it an easy sell to someone who may already have a favorite pannier brand.

Co-founder, Mike Maguire says, “Why wait until the weekend to have some fun! Commuting is a big part of our customer’s lives so we want to help them take the fun and adventurous route to work while taking the gear they need in a simple and super stable way.

By having a base rack and lower pannier catch anti-sway fingers, we’ve made the rear rack super secure no matter what terrain you feel like riding. This is a game changer for the level of enjoyment on the ride”.

To help meet the needs of a specific ride, the Spider Pannier rack base provides a base layer that can also host, or be mixed and matched with all of Aeroe’s other rack accessories, like the cradles and pods. It uses the same quick-release, so the rider can easily add or remove the rack in seconds, or even swap it between bikes.

Aeroe’s Design Lead, Phil Gallagher explains, “It was important to us to create a solution that worked just as well for small frames and dropper posts as it did for larger frames and fixed posts. In the bike accessory world, they’re often forgotten which can make for a frustrating commute or mountain bike ride for those riders“.

Alongside the launch of the Pannier Rack, comes the launch of the Spider Pannier Reciever. This product is the top platform piece that allows the standard Spider Rear Rack to become a pannier rack. The Spider Pannier Reciever will keep your panniers secure with an in-built top rail and lower catch.

Spider Pannier Rack Retail & Features

Retail: $169

• Make any eMTB or MTB bike commute or adventure-ready, no need for inbuilt mounts or axle mounting.
• Compatible with any brand of pannier you want to carry
• Positions to work with small, full suspension frames and dropper posts
• Made for everyday commuting as well as tough mountain biking
• Swap out accessories and cradles to suit the adventure ahead
• Your gear and rack are secure and stable, no matter the ride.
• Compatible with any brand of pannier you want to carry.
• Your MTB or eMTB still looks and functions as beautifully as it should

Spider Pannier Reciever Retail & Features

Retail: $90

• Make any eMTB or MTB bike commute or adventure-ready, just attach to your existing Spider Rear Rack
• Compatible with any brand of pannier you want to carry
• Pannier Receiver and pannier positions can be adjusted to work with small, full suspension frames and dropper posts
• Made for everyday commuting as well as tough mountain biking
• Swap out the Pannier Receiver for cradles in seconds, to suit the ride ahead
• Your gear and rack are secure and stable, no matter the ride
• Your MTB or eMTB still looks and functions as beautifully as it should

Aeroe.com

The post Aeroe’s Spider Pannier Rack Fits Any Bike and Any Brand of Bag appeared first on Bikerumor.