Partly thanks to the successes of his big brother Biniam Girmay, the relatively unknown Mewael Girmay has managed to secure a contract with Wanty-ReUz-Technord, the training team of World Tour formation Intermarch - Wanty. The 19-year-old brother of the new winner of the green jersey started racing...

TRP has released an electronic drivetrain in partnership with German motor brand Bosch.The new E.A.S.I. A12 1x12 drivetrain has been designed for use with electric bikes that use Boschs Performance Line CX and SX motors.Manual and automatic modes are available, with the latter said to keep you spinning the cranks at a consistent cadence whatever the load or speed.The drivetrain is centred around the A12 ebike-specific rear derailleur, which is then paired with varying shifting components depending on the type of riding you do.We've seen the new drivetrain at the Eurobike trade show but TRP is yet to release full details, with pricing also to be confirmed.E.A.S.I. compatibilityTRP's E.A.S.I. A12 ebike-specific derailleur showcased at Eurobike. - Nick Clark / Our MediaTRP has partnered with Bosch for this drivetrain, with the rear derailleur being for electric bikes only.The system takes advantage of Boschs updated eShift system, also released this week, which sees the drive motor momentarily reduce support during gear changes for crisper shifts and reduced mechanical wear.It's similar to SRAM's AXS Transmission and Powertrain automatic shifting features, with the bike keeping a consistent cadence.The system also implements Auto-Downshift, which automatically shifts down the cassette when you stop to give you the optimum gear to set off again.In addition, the TRP setup has a similar feature to SRAMs Coast Shift, called Roll Shift, which measures your rolling speed while coasting and automatically changes gears to match your speed.While in the automatic mode, you can override the system to change gears manually, though both Bosch and TRP claim this shouldnt be necessary.TRP says the system allows you to focus more on the trail or road ahead and less on what gear you should be in.E.A.S.I. A12TRP's new E.A.S.I. A12 on a Bosch bike at Eurobike 2024. - Nick Clark / Our MediaTRP says the new E.A.S.I. A12 derailleur has a cage release that allows for easy wheel removal by taking tension off the chain, similar to SRAMs Cage Lock.A clutch is also used in the derailleur, which is said to lead to a quiet ride by silencing chain slap.A cable runs to the derailleur from the main battery. - Nick Clark / Our MediaPower is taken from the ebike's main battery, reducing the amount of separate batteries that need to be kept charged.The drivetrain is compatible with TRPs range of 12-speed cassettes, including the gold EVO 12 cassette.Get shiftyWith the system being designed for all types of electric bikes, TRP has released hood-style shifters called Hywire for electric gravel bikes and a trigger called the CMD Shift Switch for electric mountain bikes.HywireThe gravel version of the TRP E.A.S.I. A12. - Nick Clark / Our MediaThe Hywire levers uses a similar button setup as Shimano for shifting gears, with the inside shifter button requesting a harder gear.An integrated master cylinder features inside the hood, with the system running on a newly formulated mineral oil.TRP, or Tekro Racing Products, is well known for its brakes. - Nick Clark / Our MediaA 5mm hydraulic hose is used, said to provide a firm bite, and the TRP brake calipers have been designed for 1.8mm-thick rotors.There are function buttons on the end caps for pairing the hoods with the E.A.S.I. system. - Nick Clark / Our MediaFunction buttons for pairing the hoods with the E.A.S.I. system feature on the end caps. A small green LED (not on in photo) indicates that the system is connected. CMD Shift SwitchTextured paddles provide grip when shifting in wet conditions. - Nick Clark / Our MediaFor electric mountain bikes, TRP's CMD Shift Switch uses CMD, or Command, technology that utilises a wireless connection to communicate with the drivetrain.It's compatible with SRAM Matchmaker and Shimano I-Spec EV-mounted brakes, meaning less hardware is needed on the bar.All this should make for a squeaky-clean cockpit with the right setup.An audible click is made when pressing the triggers, with a small bit of feedback present that is said to allow for precise shifts over rough terrain.

Smith has released three new mountain bike helmets at Eurobike, an updated enduro open-face Forefront 3, and full-face Hardline and Hardline Carbon models.The new Hardline is said to have been developed with freeride and slopestyle rider Hannah Bergemann, who has been seen wearing it for the last 6 months.Smith is yet to release pricing for the new helmets but expects them to be available sometime this year.Smith HardlineThe Hardline is Smith's latest full-face helmet - Nick Clark / Our MediaPreviously, Smith's full face helmet lineup only featured the enduro-focused Mainline.The brand says its new Hardline helmet is designed for taking on the rowdiest descents and backs that up with the protection to match.The carbon version features a tight weave throughout the shell. - Nick Clark / Our MediaIt uses Smiths signature Koroyd protection, which the brand says adds more impact protection while increasing breathability due to its hollow constitution.Cheek pads can slide out for a safe removal should you injure your neck. - Nick Clark / Our MediaKoroyd is made up of what looks like a couple hundred plastic tubes to create a honeycomb lattice.There is also MIPS on both Hardline helmets The system is said to reduce rotational forces during big impacts to help limit concussions.Smith says the Hardline has collarbone impact protection zones. These are claimed to lessen the damage the side of the helmet can cause to collarbones on impact.A small letter could be posted through the vent in the rear of the Hardline. - Nick Clark / Our MediaThere is a large mouth vent on the helmets chin bar to aid airflow, with smaller vents on the brow of the helmet bringing air to the top of your head. This air then exits through a sleek horizontal vent in the rear.Goggle compatibility looks to be good. - Nick Clark / Our MediaIntegration with the brands AirEvac ventilation system should see fog-free lenses when it's used with Smiths latest goggles.Different thickness liners are provided so you can fine-tune the fit, all of which use an Ionic+ anti-bacterial material to reduce odour.The visor has been designed to break off on impact to reduce neck injuries, and there is an action camera mount beneath it.Smith says the Hardline weighs 990g for a size medium, with the Carbon variant shaving 90g at 900g for the same size.Both helmets feature a D-ring closure.Smith Forefront 3Smith offer the Forefront 3 in some nostalgic colours. - Nick Clark / Our MediaThe Forefront 3 is said to have 25 per cent more airflow compared to the previous Forefront 2, with the new design now featuring 20 vents.Smith has also given the helmet a micro-adjustable BOA Fit System, which is said to provide a more secure fit compared to other designs.There appears to be plenty of vents on the new model. - Nick Clark / Our MediaThe helmet like the Hardline also uses Koroyd protection.Smith says it now features a 'roll cage' that helps distribute impact forces throughout its shell for increased protection.It has got a three-position adjustable visor with a camera or light mounting systems build in.Smith claims the Forefront 3 tips the scales at 410g for a size medium.

Gather around. Its time for our round-up of the most exciting new, nearly new and prototype mountain bike tech from Eurobike 2024.Europe's biggest bike show has left our heels blistered but our hearts yearning for the latest and greatest mountain bike tech.Head to our Eurobike 2024 hub for detailed event coverage, but before checking that out feast your eyes on our mountain bike highlights.Topeak E-Booster DigitalOnce a niche oddity, portable electric pumps are going mainstream. - Nick Clark / Our MediaThe new E-Booster Digital is Topeak's first foray into the electric pump segment, with the brand claiming it can inflate a 700x25c tyre to 80psi in 50 seconds.Pressure is preset using the plus and minus buttons, and Topeak says accuracy is within 2psi.A 600mAh battery takes charge from a USB-C connector with the pumps total weight claimed to be 162g.An extension is required to prevent the pump from melting TPU tubes. - Nick Clark / Our MediaTopeak says the silicone case is needed for heat insulation because the pump generates quite a bit of heat during inflation.A hose extension is used for this same reason TPU tubes dont take kindly to scorching stems.Topeaks SmartHead feature at the end of the device allows for compatibility with Shrader and Presta valves.Magped GravityIf you aren't quite ready to give up on flat pedals but are clipless curious, Magped's Gravity pedals could be for you.Magped has a late prototype of its Gravity mountain bike pedals, with changes to the magnet position compared to the rest of its line-up.Magnetic pedals sit somewhere between clipless and flats, with Magped claiming they reap the benefits of both pedals by increasing efficiency and traction, while still allowing you to release your foot easily.The position of the magnet has been shifted. - Nick Clark / Our MediaThe Gravity pedals are claimed to be more aggressive than Enduro 2 pedals, with the brand saying it has worked with DH riders to tune the pedals.This has seen the magnet position move forward so that the pedal makes contact with the middle of the foot.Orange WhippetOrange Whippet - Nick Clark / Our MediaBack from the dead, Orange had an unreleased dirt jump bike on its stand.The new bike rolls on 26in wheels and is said to have a stable and confidence-inspiring geometry that can take on trails as well as pump tracks.The bike has a zero-stack tapered head tube and the rear of the frame features horizontal dropouts with a built-in chain tensioner.Orange didnt share when it plans to release the bike.Intradrive GD8 PowertrainOrange with Intradrive GD8 Powertrain - Nick Clark / Our MediaElsewhere on the Orange stand Intradrive are showing its electric motor and gearbox built into a Phase MX.The design uses Shimano EP8 mounting brackets meaning it could theoretically fit into any EP8 equipped bike, though the brand says compatibility varies between bike brands.Intradrive says the gearbox has 8 speeds and can churn out 80Nm of torque.Founding Director, Mark Ravilious says he has tried to keep production as sustainable as possible with the majority of assembly happening in Edinburgh, UK.Orange with Intradrive GD8 Powertrain - Nick Clark / Our MediaThe design is not too dissimilar to Pinions gearbox, with the Intradrive offering electronic shifting, albeit with fewer gears.Intradrive says the drive unit weighs 4.5kg and uses a 2.9kg or 3.5kg battery.While still at the prototype stage, the company hopes to deliver a final production model by the end of the year.Evoc knee padsEvoc has two new knee pads on show. - Nick Clark / Our MediaEvoc has launched a new range of knee pads with impact-absorbing technology it has developed to make back-protecting backpacks.Two new pads will be available with the more aggressive enduro-focused variants featuring an abrasion-resistant fabric while the trail version uses a more breathable material.The enduro version has a tougher outer fabric. - Nick Clark / Our MediaThe enduro versions calf strap connects directly to the pad to create a more secure fit, free from fabric stretch.The pads can be removed from the sleeves for washing and silicone strips on the elastic cuffs keep them in place.Hope thru-axlesIf you simply must match everything, Hope now produces thru axles. - Nick Clark / Our MediaBritish-based manufacturer Hope has expanded its range of anodised colour-coded components with thru-axles.If you simply must match everything, Hope now produces thru axles. - Nick Clark / Our MediaThe new thru-axles come in options for Fox, hlins and RockShox forks and a range of sizes for rear dropouts.React sunglassesReacts sunglasses feature a diode on the top of the lens that detects infrared light and actively changes the tint of the glasses as you enter brighter areas.React's photochromic sunglasses can change opacity instantly. - Nick Clark / Our MediaIt does this by illuminating an LCD screen that sits between the two layers that make up the lens.The technology has also been implemented in goggles for skiing.Sinter EliteGold-plated brake pads? Sure, why not. - Nick Clark / Our MediaSinters Elite brake pads are an expression of opulence, with 24-carat gold springs used in the caliper to supposedly aid in heat dissipation.The pads are made from titanium and have a polished finish that can be engraved with your name for a small personalisation fee.The gold plating is claimed to improve heat disapation. - Nick Clark / Our MediaSinter says the titanium is lighter than its l aluminium-backed plate and the design retains more heat in the pad and the calliper, leading to less stress on the seals and other parts of the braking system.Even the retaining screw has been given the gold treatment.SRAM S-1000 Eagle AXS TransmissionSRAM's S-1000 components are designed for OEMs. - Nick Clark / Our MediaSRAMs recent S-1000 Eagle AXS Transmission was on display, with the derailleur supposedly bringing the electronic drivetrain technology to the masses.The drivetrain is roughly equivalent to SRAMs current NX offering and should see significant cost savings.At the moment, the Transmission isnt offered to the public and is only available as original equipment (OE) much like RockShoxs mid-tier suspension forks and shocks.This does mean we should see a host of bikes sporting the drivetrain as new models are released.The design is very similar to SRAMs GX Eagle AXS Transmission, with the battery mounting horizontally and the software using the same cassette mapping technology.Orbea Rise RS Gen 2 AlloyThe alloy version of the rise RS could easily pass for carbon. - Jack Luke / Our MediaOrbea showed its new Rise RS Gen 2 Alloy full-suspension electric mountain bike.The bike features the brand's high-polished alloy that creates an almost seamless finish that could fool even a veteran mountain bike journalist into thinking it was carbon.Geometry figures remain the same as the carbon fibre model and the bike continues to use a Shimano EP8 motor.SL (short travel) and LT (long travel) variants will be available, with the former having 140m of rear suspension travel and the latter having 150mm.

The UCI has suspended Polish team manager Dariusz Banaszek until March 2025 for multiple dangerous actions during last year's Tour of Denmark. The coach of the continental HRE Mazowsze Serce Polski performed crazy antics on the time trial course in order to be able to follow one of his riders. Since...

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Its been quite the whirlwind week at BikeRadar, with the Tour de France and Eurobike 2024 in full swing, on top of a rich buffet of new product releases.The 15th (yes, 15th!) iteration of the Specialized Stumpjumper was unveiled, with the new bike banishing the signature sidearm in the front triangle and switching to a Fox GENIE shock. Technical editor-in-chief Robin Weaver delivered his impressions in a first ride review and questioned why there is no new Specialized Stumpjumper EVO.Sticking in mountain biking territory, SRAM released cheaper Transmission components but they're only available on complete bikes and Merida announced its new Big.Trail hardtail.What about gravel? Well, the next-generation Giant Revolt broke cover. It now features down tube storage, integrated cable routing (make of that what you will) and, according to Giant, compliance-improving finishing kit.Onto the road, and the striking Continental Aero 111 front tyre was officially launched earlier this week. The tyre is a collaboration between Continental, DT Swiss and Swiss Side and is claimed to be up to 18 watts faster than a GP5000 S TR no shabby feat.Weve also done some sleuthing at the Grand Dpart of the Tour de France, with George Scott spotting a new Van Rysel aero bike and Simon von Bromley taking a look at an unreleased Dare aero bike and a prototype automatic chain waxing machine used by the Lidl-Trek team.Right, I hope youve kept up with all of that now it's time to take a closer look at some of the new gear to recently arrive at BikeRadar HQ.Posedla Joyseat 2.0The Joyseat 2.0 is a refreshingly different take on a 3D-printed saddle. - Simon von Bromley / Our MediaThe Joyseat 2.0 is an update of the Czech Republic-based brands original 3D-printed saddle.Compared to other 3D-printed saddle manufacturers, Posedlas proposition differs in that its saddles are fully customised for your anatomy and riding requirements.Of course, its worth acknowledging that Fizik recently announced its 'One-to-One' service. The Italian brands process sees a saddle selected from pre-defined shapes and widths; Fizik then adjusts the stiffness based on the riders pressure points.The process with the Posedla Joyseat 2.0 starts with receiving a Smiling Butt Kit, which incorporates an impression foam that you sit on wearing tight underwear, with your legs at a 90 degree angle, transferring your weight into the foam.You then take images of the imprint with your phone, send these to Posedla and receive your custom saddle six to eight weeks later.I've gone for a 'Gravel' option. - Simon von Bromley / Our MediaWhen youre customising your saddle, you can choose between Road, Gravel, TT and MTB, and depending on your imprint, the saddle width is customised between 130 and 170mm.Given Im prioritising gravel ultra-endurance races at the moment, I selected the gravel option.There's plenty of carbon on show. - Simon von Bromley / Our MediaThe lattice structure of the saddle consists of a recyclable thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) printed on an industrial 3D printer. The saddles feature 7x9mm carbon rails and are rated to a maximum weight of 100kg.Posedla says you can expect the saddle to weigh between 150 and 200g. Mine weighs 166g.Will this become my go-to saddle? - Simon von Bromley / Our Media3D-printed saddles are notoriously hard to keep clean and Posedla simply recommends using water. The brand says it has engineered holes on the nose and side of the saddle to allow water to naturally flow out.Ill report back in due course with my findings.390 / $490 / 490 / AU$550Apidura Racing Hydration VestHydration packs are very popular on the ultra-racing scene. - Simon von Bromley / Our MediaLaunched yesterday (Thursday 4 July), Apidura has updated its Racing Hydration Vest and, following rider feedback, the brand has concentrated on improving its breathability, weight and stability.The original Racing Hydration Vest is a common sight at many ultra-endurance events and we spotted Piotr Havik wearing this new bag in the first half of Unbound this year, before he swapped back to the outgoing vest.The pack incorporates a 2L bladder. - Simon von Bromley / Our MediaThe new Racing Hydration Vest is available in two sizes S/M or L/XL, to suit different body types. It pairs a 2L bladder with 3.5-4L of additional storage, depending on the size, and is claimed to weigh either 225 or 245g.The bladder size and storage capacity, combined with the bags low weight, undercut key rivals such as the Camelbak Chase Race 4 and EVOC Hydro Pro 7.The left pocket easily swallows a phone. - Simon von Bromley / Our MediaApidura has primarily gone about shaving weight by utilising a mesh construction, which is also said to improve breathability. Theres a refined fit system with quick-release buckles incorporating a magnetic hydration hose clip and emergency whistle.On the left strap is a mesh pocket large enough to hold a phone with room to spare and the right strap has an open pocket for a bottle or to store rubbish.Plenty of adjustment. - Simon von Bromley / Our MediaIve been testing this hydration vest for just over a month now and have been impressed. I used the brands larger-volume Backcountry Hydration Pack on the Seven Serpents race in May and also appreciate the lower weight and increased breathability of this new pack.If I can shave some weight from my bikepacking bags for the items I carried in the Backcountry Hydration Pack on the Seven Serpents, I reckon Ill opt for this bag for Badlands at the end of next month.143 / $167 / 189 / AU$261Chris King ThreadFit 30 Bottom BracketChris King only produces threaded bottom brackets now and has discontinued its press-fit options. - Oscar Huckle / Our MediaAlthough the bottom bracket standards war has calmed down a little, with more brands ditching press-fit variants, one still needs to tread carefully.With BB standards typically being designed around certain crank spindle sizes, there are some sub-optimal pairings out there.The thin bearings when pairing BSA and SRAM DUB are typically sub-optimal. - Oscar Huckle / Our MediaOne such example is trying to fit a SRAM DUB crankset into a BSA threaded bottom bracket shell. The cranksets 28.99mm spindle, paired with a 34.8mm shell diameter, means you are relying on seriously skinny bearings.This means theyre likely to wear out quicker, compared to if you were running a Shimano crankset with a 24mm spindle on the same bottom bracket standard.You can carefully prise off this snapring (or a replacement is fairly inexpensive) to flush out and regrease the bearings. - Oscar Huckle / Our MediaI dont want to be replacing bottom brackets all the time on a new bike build Im planning later in the year, which is where the Chris King ThreadFit 30 I keep seeing recommended for this scenario comes in.The ThreadFit 30 is built around angular contact bearings that wear in instead of out and its backed by a five year warranty.Once you buy a bottom bracket, you then need to buy a Fit Kit for the crankset youre planning on fitting FitKit No. 2 in my case.I've opted for 'Matte Midnight' in the steel variant. - Oscar Huckle / Our MediaYou can pick between ten colours and Chris King offers steel or ceramic bearing options.On the basis of other Chris King products Ive used in the past, I wouldnt be surprised if the ThreadFit 30 outlasts the frame its heading into.250 / $212 (steel bearings)370 / $322 (ceramic bearings)MAAP Alt_Road clothingThe expanded Alt_Road range spans gravel, bikepacking and cross-country mountain biking. - Simon von Bromley / Our MediaLast month, MAAP expanded its Alt_Road collection. The new products are designed to be mixed and matched for a range of off-road disciplines, including cross-country mountain biking (a first for MAAP).The Alt_Road Zip Tee is designed to blend the style of a tech tee and a conventional jersey, employing a full zip. MAAP wanted it to be lightweight, durable and fast-drying without compromising on comfort, and the jersey is also rated to UPF 30+. A neat feature is the adjustable cinching system on the hem to dial in the fit.There's just the one small storage pocket. - Simon von Bromley / Our MediaTheres only a small single storage pocket at the back of the jersey to the right, but theres a reason for that which youll discover shortly.The tee is available in two colours Cactus (which I have) and Black in six sizes from XS to XXL.The bib liner sits underneath the overshorts. - Simon von Bromley / Our MediaThe Alt_Road Cargo Bib Liner and Alt_Road Overshort are designed to be worn together. MAAP says the pairing provides riders with the comfort and breathability of a bib short with the aesthetics and riding protection of an overshort.The bib liner is designed to be similarly breathable and moisture-wicking and the main leg side panels are made from mesh to improve airflow. Elastic Interface are on chamois duties with the 3D Thermo Moulded multi-density pad.You get three storage pockets at the back of the straps. - Simon von Bromley / Our MediaBecause the jersey is almost pocket-free, the bib liner uses MAAPs 3-Way Pocket system, with a mesh centre pocket and two zipped pockets either side of it.The overshorts offer a casual look. - Simon von Bromley / Our MediaRounding out the collection are the Alt_Road Overshorts, which use a similar 4-way stretch fabric to the jersey. There are dual-sided adjustable buckles on an elasticated waistband to adjust the fit, with two deep open pockets to the side, as well as two zipped side pockets.The buckles are adjustable. - Simon von Bromley / Our MediaIm looking forward to testing this kit on plenty of upcoming gravel rides.MAAP Alt_Road Zip Tee 105 / $125 / 115 / AU$155MAAP Alt_Road Cargo Bib Liner 175 / $225 / 195 / AU$265MAAP Alt_Road Overshort 110 / $135 / 125 / AU$180

If youre looking for something different in cycling computers, with a stylish design and a claim of super-accurate position tracking, the Absolute One is due to be launched in September. We caught up with Absolute Cyclings Phil Lucas at Eurobike, who told us more about the new cycling computer.Prioritising simplicity Absolute Cycling One bike computer has a high-resolution screen and is controlled with three buttons.Absolute Cycling launched its crowdfunding campaign for the Absolute One back in 2019. After a long development process, Lucas says the brand is finally at a stage where it can release a marketable product.You have one chance to make a first impression, says Lucas. We wanted to make sure that it was robust and tested and tried we wanted to take our time developing and launch with a good product.Lucas says that Absolute One prioritises simplicity. Unlike top-spec computers from Garmin and Hammerhead, there's no touchscreen. You operate the computer with just three buttons. Theres full functionality available via the accompanying app, including configuration, sensor linking and route uploads.Rather than a USB-C port, the Absolute One uses a cradle to charge, which works via contacts in the mounting hardware, so there's no bung to work loose or break off. Although it works similarly to a Garmin quarter-turn mount, the mounting hardware is not compatible with Garmin's.Accurate and fastThe computer charges via the contacts in the mount.The Absolute One computer has a high-resolution Gorilla Glass screen that Lucas says has a similar resolution to the screens used on top-spec smartphones.The computer combines GPS fixes with accelerometer, clinometer, altimeter and digital compass feeds, in a process the brand calls sensor fusion. The computer is claimed to be accurate as well as fast-responding even when theres a bad GPS signal. Or if youre in a tunnel.The design house behind Bang & Olufsen designed the Absolute One bike computer case.The first production batch of the Absolute One is planned to be available from September 2024. Pricing is yet to be announced, but Lucas says it wont be entry-level, with a price of 599 mooted (without a currency specified).For that, you get a super-nice, polished, great-looking unit designed by the house that designed Bang & Olufsen, hence the sharp and really modern lines, says Lucas. Claimed battery life is on par with the latest Garmin Edge 1050 at around 20 hours. But weight-wise, the Absolute One is 44g lighter than the Edge 1050 at 117g.

A Gravaa KAPS (Kinetic Air Pressure System) automatic tyre inflator system for gravel riding has been spotted at Eurobike 2024.The system made headlines in 2023 after it was spotted on Dylan van Baarle, Christophe Laporte and Edoardo Affini's Dwar Doors Vlaanderen road race bikes.Now, Gravaa is working with Reserve and DT Swiss to bring complete gravel wheelsets to market. Loek Luijbregts, Gravaa's chief marketing officer, told BikeRadar an MTB-specific version is also in development, alongside an updated road-going system.The system has been updated with smaller, sleeker sprint shifter-style controls and a new mobile app.Were also told that at least two bike brands have bought units from Gravaa, suggesting that the system will appear on OEM bikes in the not-so-distant future.From trial to realisationThe system was first spotted in 2023. - Jack Luke / Our MediaWe saw Team Jumbo-Visma (now Visma Lease-a-Bike) rider Edoardo Affini sporting a prototype Gravaa KAPS hub at the 2023 Dwars Door Vlaanderen spring classics race.This enabled Affini to adjust his tyre pressures on the move, via remote switches on the handlebar.In theory, reducing pressures on rougher terrain for example, up cobbled climbs or rougher roads could increase traction and minimise fatigue. Increasing tyre pressure for tarmac sections of the course would reduce rolling resistance.The system works using a clutch mechanism housed within the Gravaa hub. With the clutch engaged, the system pumps up the tyre using the rotational movement of the hub via a tube attached to the spokes. KAPS feeds air to the tyre via a tube. - Jack Luke / Our MediaWhen the clutch is disengaged, Gravaa says the system adds zero watts of friction. In theory, the only penalty will be the weight of the system fitted to the bike.Now spotted at Eurobike 2024 rigged up to a Reserve 40/44 gravel wheelset fitted with 700 x 38c Vittoria Terreno Dry gravel tyres, Gravaa says it's been hard at work to develop a system for gravel.Luijbregts said the gravel version of the KAPS system can inflate a gravel tyre by around 1.2 BAR / 17.5 PSI per kilometre of riding, although the specific test conditions (such as tyre size) werent confirmed.The system can inflate a gravel tyre by around 17.5 psi per kilometre of riding. - Jack Luke / Our MediaAccording to testing, Luijbregts claims riders pay a 2-5 watt penalty as the system engages [to inflate the tyre].Over a 200-mile gravel course (such as Unbound), Gravaa claims a 72kg rider could see a 21w normalised power benefit, and finish 28 minutes faster having carried out an estimated 80-100 tyre pressure changes en route.The system we have spy shots of isnt the finished article. Were told that the system consumers will receive will look very similar, but carry a few changes to help optimise the design.Whats changing?The hubs use special disc brakes produced by Galfer. - Jack Luke / Our MediaThe previous systems hub used seven bolts to mount a disc rotor. The new version is set to use five to save internal space inside the hub. Gravaa says consumer units will also have potted electronics inside, whereby the electronics are set into an epoxy resin. This, its claimed, will improve protection from moisture, dust and temperature fluctuations.Production models will use Classified shifters. - Jack Luke / Our MediaAffini used prototype remote controls when he tested the system 2023. Production models will use Classified shifters, the brand behind the Powershift hub system. Luijbregts also says that Gravaa has been hard at work developing a new app for the KAPS device, designed to make setup easier and to provide greater customisation of the inflation and deflation intervals.Luijbregts suggested high-level and professional riders may prefer to set up the system with smaller jumps in pressure, while others may benefit from larger intervals.The valve is patented. - Jack Luke / Our MediaA new valve interface with a hydrophobic filter has also been developed something Gravaa admits couldnt be achieved without calling in specific expertise. The patented design uses a hydrophobic seal which allows air in and out, but keeps sealant in the tyre and prevents it from congealing around the inlet or entering the Gravaa system.Connectivity is also set to spread to Garmin and Wahoo bike computers, opening the theoretical possibility of GPS-driven automatic tyre pressure adjustment although Gravaa says thats not on the cards for now, describing it as an unfair advantage, presumably given the UCIs regulations governing rider controls.Availability in 2024 and 2025The gravel KAPS system is set to be available later this year. - Jack Luke / Our MediaWhile exact timings are unclear, Gravaa says its system is set to be available later in 2024. A road version (like the one Affini tested) should come to market in early 2025.When the gravel system launches, were told that DT Swiss and Reserve will be the lead partners, supplying rims to the brand. Reserve wheelsets with the system are set to cost around 3,800, while the DT Swiss wheelset is likely to cost in the region of 4,300.Theres no word on how much complete bikes with KAPS will cost, but we were informed they would be towards the top end of price ranges.