Factor O2 – Version 2

 

 

An updated version of the Factor O2 was recently released, improving on the first generation by incorporating manufacturing processes used on the flagship O2 VAM. These techniques combine to make version 2 stronger, lighter and faster. One other item of note is the additional clearance for tires up to 30mm, a welcome bit of news for those of us relying on the “bigger is better” maxim.  Available in both rim and disc brake versions, and for both electronic or mechanical shifting, the O2 is available now starting at $2700.00. (more…)



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Isadore Apparel

 

Winter in LA has been exceptionally cool. That isn’t to say we don’t have it easy with our weather, but for lifelong Angelenos, it is always a test when the temperatures drop into the 40s. The sun may be shining, but the wind combined with the cool air make for a daunting combination. To deal with this varying climate, I chose to test Isadore Apparel almost exclusively for the last two months. The results are in. (more…)



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California Bike Plate

 

 

 

 

The California Department of Motor Vehicles is gauging interest in a specialty plate created to support cycling programs within the State. In order to launch the program, 7500 people need to pre-order the plate. If that magic number is reached, the DMV will issue the plates, and funding for bike skill development and nutrition education at the elementary school level will be established. Additionally, grants will be provided to bicycle coalitions throughout the State. A cycling themed plate proudly displayed on your car seems like an especially brilliant way to support cycling. More info can be found here.



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Tubolito Inner Tubes

 

The photo above is of the new Tubolito inner tube, and it clearly shows what may be one of the best reasons to splurge on an expensive tube for your bicycle. As packaged when new, a standard jersey pocket could easily accommodate 5 of these tubes. Actually, the pocket could easily hold more, but given the reliability I’ve had using these tubes, a couple would be more than enough. Tubolito is based in Austria, and the tubes are entirely manufactured in Europe. They are incredibly lightweight, and are available for all cycling applications. (more…)



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Shimano S-PHYRE RC9 Shoes

 

 

Replacing my older MTB gear with the Shimano S-PHYRE RC9 is probably the most significant change recently made to my bike rides. Currently, I’m riding a gravel/adventure bike with a bunch of fancy components. However, I know one of the most important aspects of my ride has been the addition of the Shimano S-PHYRE RC9 shoes. From long stretches along the SoCal beaches to a quick jaunt up to the Hollywood Sign in Los Angeles, these shoes make rides quite an amazing treat. (more…)



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Philleywood Gloves

 

The Rodney leather gloves made by Philleywood of Los Angeles are a revelation. Gloves are one item on the short list of most tried accessories for riding a bike, and I find I’ve been through my fair share from many different makers. Most are of high quality, but after trying the Rodney’s for the first time, I’d be hard pressed to go back to another glove.

First off, even before trying them on, these gloves were special. The sheepskin leather is like no other I’ve felt. It is incredibly subtle and soft, and the gloves in turn, feel like luxury. I’d followed the instructions on the site to measure my hands, and at first fitting the gloves felt a bit tight. This is on purpose, as they stretch and conform to fit your hands after the first few wears. Many gloves have a break-in period that involves chafing or some other sort of annoyance, but the gloves from Philleywood are an entirely different story. From the very first ride in them, they were virtually perfect. The oddest thing to wrap your head around is the feeling that you aren’t wearing anything at all. They’re the embodiment of the expression “fitting like a glove.” (more…)



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Smith Interval

 

Ordering glasses sight unseen can be a challenge, but with the online sizing tools offered by Smith Optics, getting the right fit wasn’t difficult. I generally know the shape of glasses that work for me, as well as the size, so by narrowing the search using the tools on the left side of the web page, you are able to see a selection of what will probably work for you. Then, when looking at a specific pair, the actual measurements are displayed, and those can be taken and compared to your present glasses. I had a good time looking through the site. I knew I wanted something that could also be worn on a daily basis, but also worked well on the bike. That’s where the Smith glasses really shine, as they are not just suitable for sports, they’re absolutely ideal. The Smith Intervals were my pick, and when they arrived, I was absolutely thrilled. They fit perfectly, and my choice was validated. (more…)



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