gear
Mountain Biking
By Chris Kassar
Head for the Hills: Summer Mountain Bike Gear Round-Up Longer days, copious sunshine, and warmer temps. Summer’s back. And wonderful, flowing singletrack beckons once again. These gear favorites are sure to keep you cruising and cool as summer riding heats up.
PIMP YOUR RIDE
Bontrager Node 2.1. Train better with this digital computer that tracks power, speed, cadence, heart rate, and distance on one easy-to-read screen. Definitely a smart machine, the Node 2.1 starts and stops automatically with movement, times-out after 20 minutes of rest and records altitude, grade, and air temp. It is water resistant and backlit, which helps during sunrise/sunset cruises. $139.99 (Node 2.1, including chest strap), $59.99 (Interchange ANT+ Digital Combo Sensor); bontrager.com Terry W’s FLX Gel Saddle. By infusing just the right amount of gel into a light and slim seat, the folks at Terry have created an outstanding saddle that strikes the perfect balance of cushioning and performance. The narrow design minimizes inner thigh rubbing and each side of the saddle flexes independently for a sweeter ride with less pressure on your sit bones and hips. $120; terrybicycles.com
Raleigh Eva Comp 29. This lightweight, rugged, reasonably priced hardtail delivers a smooth ride, powerful performance, and excellent control so you can attack and conquer burly singletrack this season. Built specifically for women, the frame fits better so you can stay out longer and focus on honing your skills and having fun. It features extra grippy tires, snappy shifters, and just the right amount of travel to help you cruise through downhills, feel confident in corners, and crush it on climbs. $1,100; raleighusa.com
UR BOD O Y T U O TRICK
Shimano PD-M324 SPD Dual Platform Pedal. Merging the best of a standard flat pedal with the efficiency of a clipless pedal, these versatile twosided Shimanos are extremely user-friendly and work with cleated or street shoes. Great if you are new to clipless pedals, have one bike you use for everything, or if you have to brave city streets to reach trails. $85; bike.shimano.com
Pearl Izumi W’s Launch Jersey. Silky smooth fabric feels like butter next to the skin, wicks moisture, and dries fast, making it superb for sweaty summer rides. UPF 50+ to protect against harmful rays, longer front zipper for increased ventilation, and a sewnin sunglass wipe. $80; pearlizumi.com
Skirt Sports Cruiser Bike Skirt. Don’t let the name fool Pearl Izumi W’s Divide Short. Perform better and ride longer with these breathable, airy shorts from the leader in technical cycling apparel. The detachable women’s chamois provides perfectly placed padding while cutting-edge mesh side vents facilitate airflow for all-day cooling and comfort. $100; pearlizumi.com 64 WAM • SUMMER | 2013
Outdoor Research Whirlwind Hoody. Mountain weather can change in a flash. Be ready with this unique wind- and water-resistant piece that combines the warmth and protection of a technical pullover with the feel of a relaxed shirt. Packs into its own pocket so you can stow it and forget it until the clouds threaten rain. $89; outdoorreasearch.com
you—this adorable skirt is techy and tough enough to survive your most grueling training rides. Tiny details that set these bottoms apart: side slits for full range of motion, pockets on each thigh for necessities, music port, and grippers to hold shorts in place. Grab this sweet skirt if you want to look and feel great while crushing it. $85; skirtsports.com
womensadventuremagazine.com