Another close call for Marc Soler has come at the 2024 Vuelta a Espana on stage 12. The UAE Team Emirates rider saw compatriot Pablo Castrillo be the strongest of the breakaway on Thursday afternoon.Soler took third place while Castrillo went for the win with 10 kilometres to go (although his plan w...

The Zipp 454 NSW are the most unique looking wheels on test. With their SawTooth profile and dimples in the rim, Zipp didnt just dig deep in terms of innovation, but also took a bold approach in terms of the tech. How do the wheels stack up against the competition in our big aero wheel group test? Zipp 454 NSW | 3,798 | 1415 g | Manufacturers websiteWe tested these wheels for our big 2024 aero wheel group test click here for an overview of the test field or to check out the individual reviews.Zipp are one of the big names in the high-performance road wheels scene. Its no wonder, considering their innovative approach, hookless rims, and in-house hubs. Coupled with a healthy dose of classic American marketing, the 454 NSW raises the highest expectations of all the wheels on test. The distinctive look completes the package, making them a popular choice for wheel upgrades. By focusing on hookless rims, Zipp are increasingly moving into the centre of the hookless debate. However, as one of the driving innovators behind the technology, Zipp are sticking to their guns. But can the exotic wheels hold their own in our aero wheel group test?Innovation at all cost Zipp 454 NSWThe Zipp 454 NSW wheels are amongst the most unique models on the market, which is reflected in the price. At 3,797 for the set, theyre just above the test field average. But what do you get for your money? Zipp clearly focused their development efforts on the rims, especially with regards to aerodynamics and crosswinds.This is what led Zipp to come up with their unique rim geometry. The ratio of the internal and external rim widths of 23.5 mm and 27.8 mm is a little off, especially considering the claim that the wheels are optimised for wide tires. As such, the 28 mm wide Continental GP 5000 S TR tires we used for the test are almost too wide compared to the rim, making the wheels look a bit strange. The SawTooth rim profile with a variable depth ranging from 53 to 58 mm is intended to ensure the best compromise between aerodynamics and crosswind stability. Zipp call the golf ball-like dimples Hyperfoil and HexFin, which are intended to further stabilise the wheels, especially in crosswinds.Hookless at its finestAs hookless pioneers, Zipp are at the forefront of this technology, so it goes without saying that their 454 NSW wheels rely on hookless rims.Old school?Only the Zipp 454 NSW wheels rely on classic J-Bend spokes, whereas all of the other brands on test rely on the marginally lighter straight-pull versions.Specially developed100% unique: the hubs are also from Zipps parts caddy.Compared to the feature-laden rims, the hubs seem rather unspectacular, and its striking that Zipp are the only brand on test to still use J-Bend spokes. The freewheel is extremely quiet, which we loved (or at least it was while it was freshly greased it got a little louder as our test period wore on). As the icing on the cake, Zipp offer a lifetime guaranteed and crash replacement on the wheels with their aptly named Keep Rolling Program, in typical US marketing style.Flying down the fairwayThanks to small dimples in the rims, the wheels should glide through the air even more smoothly, and be less susceptible to crosswinds.Cutting through the air?Of course, the Zipp 454 NSW wheelset also features their SawTooth rim profile, which is said to offer improved aerodynamics.The sprinting star amongst wheels Zipp 454 NSWThe Zipp 454 NSW wheelset is preceded by its reputation as a dream sprint and performance option, but how does it fare in our tests? Indeed, the 454 NSW wheels are extremely stiff and fast. The wheels are extremely quick to accelerate, allowing them to excel on the sprints. And their stiffness also benefits their handling in the corners, offering millimetre precision. However, this also results in a bumpy and somewhat harsh ride. Theres little vibration damping to speak of, and bumps are passed on virtually unmitigated. While this is good for racing, its not ideal for longer or more relaxed rides.On the other hand, we were impressed with their excellent performance in crosswinds. We cant say exactly whether this is due to Zipps proprietary dimples and SawTooth profile. The fact is, however, that the wheels perform better here than the competition with a similar rim depth.More than just marketing hot air? The Zipp 454 NSW in the wind tunnelThey perform well in crosswinds, but what about aerodynamics? Looking at the wheels and considering the marketing hype, our expectations were understandably high how else can you justify the price and unique look? But we quickly noticed that our expectations wouldnt be met when riding them. Especially in back-to-back tests, the Zipps tended to settle at the lower end of the leaderboard, and thats with deeper rims than most of the other wheels on test. But it is only in the wind tunnel that the full extent of their lack of aero performance comes to light. In fact, they performed below-average across all the yaw angles measured, landing the Zipp 454 NSW in ninth place, with an average wattage of 96.2. Only the wheels from Mavic and Lightweight performed worse here. Considering the price and marketing claims, this is a worrying result.Our conclusion on the Zipp 454 NSWThe Zipp 454 NSW is a unique looking and expensive wheelset. Its not just the brand name thats promising the marketing hype also raises expectations to new heights. However, their performance can only deliver to a certain extent. Although the 454 NSW offers a unique look and brilliant sprinting performance, their aerodynamics cant keep up with the competition. Zipp seem to have sacrificed aero gains for crosswind stability.Topsunique lookmodern and wide internal rim widthexcellent performance in crosswindsFlopsrather hefty price and weightunsatisfactory aero performanceFor more information, visit sram.comThe test fieldWe tested these wheels for our big 2024 aero wheel group test click here for an overview of the test field or to check out the individual reviews.All wheels in test: Bontrager Aeolus RSL 51 TLR (Click for review) | Cadex 50 Ultra (Click for review) | DT Swiss ERC 1100 Dicut DB 45 (Click for review) | Hunt SUB50 (Click for review) | Lightweight Obermayer EVO (Click for review) | Mavic Cosmic SLR 45 Disc (Click for review) | Reserve 52/63 (Click for review) | Roval Rapide CLX II (Click for review) | Syncros Capital SL Aero 60mm (Click for review) | Vision Metron 60 SL Disc (Click for review) | Zipp 454 NSWDer Beitrag Zipp 454 NSW on test erschien zuerst auf GRAN FONDO Cycling Magazine.

The new Hunt 40 Carbon Gravel Dynamo Wheels can fit up to 2.3" tires, come equipped with a SON 28 dynamo hub, and use their new H_Cyclo recyclable resin technology. Find all the details here...The post The New Hunt 40 Carbon Gravel Dynamo Wheels Have Recyclable Rims appeared first on BIKEPACKING.com.

Throughout the Vuelta a Espaa, the race jury attributes fines to some of the riders and sporting directors. Ultimately the fines can come in the form of money, time penalties or even UCI points, depending on the rule breaking. Here we present what has happened during the race.Joo Almeida (UAE Tea...

Syncros take on the competition in our aero wheel group test with the Capital SL Aero, featuring a one-piece carbon construction. Tipping the scales at less than 1,300 g, the 4,000 wheels seem to meet all of our requirements with their carbon spokes and deep rims. But how do they stack up in our group test?Syncros Capital SL Aero 60mm | 4,198 | 1295 g | Manufacturers websiteWe tested these wheels for our big 2024 aero wheel group test click here for an overview of the test field or to check out the individual reviews.Swiss brand Syncros present a unique high-performance wheelset with the Capital SL Aero. The one-piece construction is similar to that of the Lightweight Obermayer EVO, but with optimised aerodynamics to push the boundaries of what is possible. Syncros are also setting new standards in their cooperation with Schwalbe to develop suitable aero tires, taking a holistic approach to the aero topic (though were using our control tires from Continental in this test). But is this really the ultimate combination for every situation? We put it to the test against established high-performance players to see how the Syncros Capital SL Aero stacks up.Carbon as far as the eye can see Syncros Capital SL AeroWow: the weight of the Syncros Capital SL Aero already speaks volumes. At just 1,295 g, the wheelset is right on the heels of the Lightweight Obermayer EVO. And thats despite some promising aerodynamic improvements. This is confirmed when looking at the rim geometry. With 60 mm deep rims that are up to 33 mm wide, Syncros seem to have found the perfect balance. Interestingly, in pursuit of maximum aero gains, the Capital SL Aero wheelset relies on a wider rim at the rear the opposite way around to many of the other wheels in this test. With an internal rim width of 25 mm and a hookless design, most 28 mm tires are too narrow to safely use, according to the new ISO standard, but a little more comfort never hurt anyone, provided theres enough clearance to fit a 30 mm tire. For the hubs, Syncros rely on DT Swiss. However, the hubs are hidden beneath one of the wheels most striking features. The hubs are embedded in the seamless, one-piece carbon construction, resulting in a unique and extremely sleek look. The visible fibres also provide a premium feel and let the wheels shimmer in the light.As good as it getsThe gold standard for tubeless setups: the continuous rim bed is guaranteed to seal, even without tubeless rim tape.CleanThe spokes flow seamlessly into the rim, creating an almost organic look, and ensuring razor sharp power transfer.FastThe Syncros Capital SL Aero is not just aerodynamically optimised the wheels also look incredibly fast outside the cafe.As you might expect, Syncros arent shy to charge for their flagship wheels. At 4,198, the Capital SL Aeros cost a significant amount of money particularly when you consider that Syncros only offer the EUs legally stipulated two year warranty, plus three years of crash replacement with staggered prices. Here, Syncros still have some catching up to do with the competition.UniqueThe Syncros wheels look like an artwork, with the spokes woven together and connected to the hub like a spiders web.Aero to the max?The hookless rims are claimed to be more aerodynamic than a traditional hooked design. Is that the Syncros Capital SL Aero wheelsets secret?The definition of speed Syncros Capital SL Aero on testFrom the first few metres on board the Syncros Capital SL Aero wheels, you can tell that the Swiss brand have worked some kind of magic! The wheels are incredibly well balanced and efficient, offering a perfect compromise between compliance and stiffness. Despite the carbon spokes, Syncros have managed to create wheels that arent rock hard. However, thats certainly not to say the wheels are too flexy under any circumstances. When it comes down to it, the Capital SL Aeros are stiff and direct, converting every watt into propulsion when you sprint, and blasting down every descent with clinical precision. Due to their low weight, Syncros superb wheels also make effortless work of the climbs. Overall, theyre an incredibly efficient and fun combination that never fails to impress. We cant fault them, which isnt something we could say about any other wheels on test.Faster than the wind The Syncros Capital SL Aero in the wind tunnelThe Syncros Capital SL Aero deliver across the board, on the road and in the test lab. They felt like the fastest and most aerodynamic wheels on test, which the wind tunnel only serves to confirm. Here, the Syncros are the undisputed aero winners. Accordingly, the Capital SL Aero takes the lead in terms of the average power, by a margin of one watt. Syncros wheels set the bar across virtually all yaw angles. Its only at extremely steep angles, which youll rarely encounter in reality, that some of the other wheels perform marginally better. Overall, this makes the Syncros the clear aero favourite we wouldnt have thought that any wheelset could dominate the competition to such an extent.Our conclusion on the Syncros Capital SL AeroThe Syncros Capital SL Aero is the ultimate high-performance wheelset currently on the market. Thanks to perfectly tuned handling, class-leading aerodynamics, and a unique construction, the wheels are the highlight of the test. Unfortunately, the price puts them out of reach for some. But compared to the other equally expensive (or even moreso) models on test, Syncros deliver the maximum of whats currently possible. Its an unmatched combination, making the Syncros Capital SL Aero the clear test winner.Topsperfectly balanced wheels for all racing scenariosclass-leading aero performanceincredibly lightweight considering the level of aero performanceclassy, understated lookFlopssomewhat stingy guarantee and crash replacement schemeFor more information, visit syncros.comThe test fieldWe tested these wheels for our big 2024 aero wheel group test click here for an overview of the test field or to check out the individual reviews.All wheels in test: Bontrager Aeolus RSL 51 TLR (Click for review) | Cadex 50 Ultra (Click for review) | DT Swiss ERC 1100 Dicut DB 45 (Click for review) | Hunt SUB50 (Click for review) | Lightweight Obermayer EVO (Click for review) | Mavic Cosmic SLR 45 Disc (Click for review) | Reserve 52/63 (Click for review) | Roval Rapide CLX II (Click for review) | Syncros Capital SL Aero 60mm | Vision Metron 60 SL Disc (Click for review) | Zipp 454 NSW (Click for review) Der Beitrag Syncros Capital SL Aero on test erschien zuerst auf GRAN FONDO Cycling Magazine.

Throughout the 2024 Vuelta a Espaa there will be many riders to withdraw from the race, for several different reasons. We make a list of all riders who leave the Spanish Grand Tour as well as list out a few of the main crashes and health issues that take place during the race.Nothing to note.Dyla...

Paul Kennedy wins Gold Medal UCI Gran Fondo World Champshttps://www.irishcyclingnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/VideoByGary.mp4Photos & Video by Gary McIlroyMens TT 40-44 Years Paul KENNEDY Ireland 41:03 48.41 km/h.Results Photo by Gary McIlroyPhoto by Gary McIlroyPhoto by Gary McIlroyThe post Results & Video: Paul Kennedy wins Gold Medal UCI Gran Fondo World Champs appeared first on IrishCyclingNews.com | Irish Cycling News | IrishCycling.

The Lightweight Obermayer EVO is the epitome of high-end exclusivity. But is this lightweight dream of many roadies still relevant today, and does it deserve its highly acclaimed reputation? We pitted the wheels against the current crop of aero models in our group test to find out.Lightweight Obermayer EVO | 6.990 | 1275 g | Manufacturers websiteWe tested these wheels for our big 2024 aero wheel group test click here for an overview of the test field or to check out the individual reviews.As one of the pioneers of one-piece carbon wheels, Lightweight are deserved icons of the scene. And youll have to pay accordingly at an eye-watering price of just under 7,000, the Obermayer EVO is by far the most expensive wheelset on test. But can the largely unchanged one-piece carbon construction of the Obermayer EVO still hold its own against modern aero wheels? Or does the hefty price and eye-catching look make these wheels more of a status symbol than a performance upgrade?Super light and super expensive The specs of the Lightweight Obermayer EVOAs expected, the Obermayer EVO wheelset relies on Lightweights proven recipe for success, consisting of one-piece hubs, spokes, and rims. And it offers several advantages. For example, it allows them to keep the weight incredibly low without affecting stiffness. Indeed, the Obermayer EVO is the undefeated champion in terms of weight, tipping the scales at just 1,275 g. But theres more to it than just weight. By dispensing with threaded spokes and nipples, theres no need for spoke holes in the rim. That means setting them up tubeless couldnt be easier, and theyre guaranteed not to leak! That said, the narrow 18 mm internal rim width isnt particularly up to date, and less appropriate for a tubeless setup. According to Syncros, modern 28 mm tires arent suitable for rims that narrow. Even 25 mm tires look a bit chunky on the Obermayer EVO. The integrated magnet for a speed sensor is just as old-school as the rim width while the speedometers of old bike computers cant work without them, virtually every modern head unit currently on the market relies on GPS tech instead. The hubs are relatively standard, with DT Swiss internals and a Ratchet EXP freehub, so theyre easy to service and spares are readily available. These are paired with CeramicSpeed bearings, which is in line with what wed expect for a price point of just under 7,000. Youre not just getting the efficiency of ceramic bearings, but also can rely on one of the biggest names in the industry.From a bygone eraWhile it was a great feature once, integrated magnets in the rim are superfluous in times of GPS bike computers.Pure craftsmanshipA look at the hubs shows how much manual labour goes into these wheels.Tubeless made easyIt couldnt be easier: simply insert the valve, and youre ready to go. No rim tape required.But despite all the high-end components, its primarily the unique look and minimal weight of the Lightweight Obermayer EVO that hopes to justify the price. The wheels boast extremely high-quality workmanship and are real eye-catchers despite their subtle branding. Unfortunately, the warranty is significantly more average. Lightweight offer five years more than the EUs legally required 2 years, and they offer a replacement discount in the event of damage with their Crash Replacement program.Old schoolThe first aero rims on the market were tapered, but rounder, more bulbous profiles have long since proven to be more aerodynamic.Perfectly integratedYou can see the wheel builders experience considering how the carbon spokes meld seamlessly with the rims.Lightweight Obermayer EVO To the maxThere were a few surprises in this group test and the Lightweight Obermayer EVO were definitely one of them. Their extremely light weight and stiff design creates a unique riding experience. Direct and stiff, the Lightweight Obermayer EVOs convert every bit of power on the pedals into propulsion, and respond to even the slightest steering input without filtering anything. However, the wheels really come into their own on the climbs thanks to their minimal weight. As such, cranking up steep climbs and accelerating out of the corners is a blast. You can also revel in their efficiency when pulling away or sprinting on flat terrain. But all that responsiveness comes at a price. Above all, were talking about compliance, which is close to zero with the Lightweight Obermayer EVO. Its a bit of a pity, but a necessary evil of this highly efficient, one-piece design. You can mitigate this to some extent with 28 mm tires, though the narrow internal rim width simply lacks the volume required for adequate damping.Another drawback is their performance in crosswinds. Due to the very wide carbon spokes and 48 mm deep, angular rims, the Obermayer EVO is just as susceptible to wind as the deepest models on test.Dated? The Lightweight Obermayer EVO in the wind tunnelDespite the flat carbon spokes and one-piece construction, the Lightweight Obermayer EVOs dont fare as well when it comes to aero performance. We quickly felt that the Obermayer EVOs would be dropped by the competition. They still seem capable of keeping up on the straights, but their performance drops rapidly in crosswinds and with the sail effect.The wind tunnel shows that the wheels can keep up with the slowest competition at moderate yaw angles of up to 2.5, but they quickly fall back beyond that. You can observe a slight sail effect at steeper angles, but the Obermayer EVO still remains far behind the competition at this point. Averaged out, their aerodynamic performance isnt great. Lightweights wheels are just under 10 watts behind the test winning Syncros, and a whole 4 watts behind the Mavics, which are the next best wheels on test.Our conclusion on the Lightweight Obermayer EVOThe Lightweight Obermayer EVO are preceded by their reputation, set apart by their unique one-piece construction, minimal weight, and exclusivity. They definitely set the bar in terms of direct and responsive handling, making them a blast on the climbs. Unfortunately, this comes at the cost of aerodynamics, compliance, and modern standards. What youre left with is an extremely expensive wheelset with limited versatility, perfect for people who are more concerned about appearances than they are about outright performance.Topsincredibly stiff and lightweight, perfect for the climbshigh-quality workmanshipunique lookFlopsvery narrow rimssomewhat outdated rim geometryincredibly expensiveFor more information, visit lightweight.infoThe test fieldWe tested these wheels for our big 2024 aero wheel group test click here for an overview of the test field or to check out the individual reviews.All wheels in test: Bontrager Aeolus RSL 51 TLR (Click for review) | Cadex 50 Ultra (Click for review) | DT Swiss ERC 1100 Dicut DB 45 (Click for review) | Hunt SUB50 (Click for review) | Lightweight Obermayer EVO | Mavic Cosmic SLR 45 Disc (Click for review) | Reserve 52/63 (Click for review) | Roval Rapide CLX II (Click for review) | Syncros Capital SL Aero 60mm (Click for review) | Vision Metron 60 SL Disc (Click for review) | Zipp 454 NSW (Click for review) Der Beitrag Lightweight Obermayer EVO on test erschien zuerst auf GRAN FONDO Cycling Magazine.

CyclistHow to watch the Tour of Britain 2024 (its free)Its Tour of Britain time again. After a 2023 edition filled with Jumbo-Visma dominance, the 2024 race looks set to be a showdown between Olympic stars Remco Evenepoel and Tom Pidcock as well as Julian Alaphilippe, who will race his final stage race in Quickstep colours. To add to the occasion, the Tour of Britain will be livestreamed globally on YouTube for the first time.The 2024 race will roll out of Kelso on Tuesday 3rd September. The race will then head south through North Yorkshire, Sheffield, Northamptonshire and the East Midlands before a final hurrah in Suffolk on Sunday 8th September.For our British readers, this will be the best time of year to catch some racing in person on the roadsides. However, if youre not lucky enough to make it onto the six-day-long route, there are plenty of streaming options on YouTube, ITV and Discovery+. There are a number of ways to watch the race for free this year too. Ill cheers to that!How to watch the Tour of Britain for freeAlex Whitehead/SWpix.comThe Tour of Britains new organisers British Cycling have confirmed that the race will be broadcast live for free on YouTube. This will be available to watch live and on demand via British Cyclings YouTube channel. This was the case in June for the Tour of Britain Women and the British National Road Championships. For the Tour of Britain 2024, there will be no geo-blocking enabled on the YouTube coverage, so it will be free to access across the globe.For UK viewers, the Tour of Britain will be broadcast on free-to-air channel ITV4 too. The stages will be shown live daily from around 11am until 3pm BST. Daily highlights are scheduled each night on ITV4 at 8pm BST. The racing will be streamed via ITVs streaming site ITVX. This is free to access within the UK (including Northern Ireland). Matt Barbet will anchor the broadcasts with Ned Boulting and David Millar on commentary.ITVs coverage will also be shown live on big screens at each of the finish locations: Kelso, Redcar, Barnsley, Northampton, Newark and Felixstowe. Related Posts The 5 climbs that will decide the Tour of Britain 2024 5 standout Tour of Britain moments from the last ten years Tour of Britain 2024 favourites and riders to watch Tour of Britain 2024: Route, start list, how to watch and all you need to know How to watch the Tour of Britain on Discovery+ James YorkAcross Europe, the Tour of Britain will be broadcast live on Discovery+. Currently, two hours of racing is scheduled to be broadcast live each day on Discovery+ between 2pm and 4pm BST. The basic package costs 6.99 per month, which includes cycling and all other Eurosport programmes. With so much cycling across the globe in early September, the Tour of Britain will not be broadcast live on Eurosport 1.Tour of Britain 2024 broadcast timesAll times BST and subject to change by broadcastersJames YorkYouTube times TBC.Stage 1: Kelso to Kelso, Tuesday 3rd SeptemberDiscovery+:14:00-16:00ITV4:10:15-16:15Stage 2: Darlington to Redcar, Wednesday 4th SeptemberDiscovery+:14:00-16:00ITV4:10:45-15:15Stage 3: Sheffield to Barnsley, Thursday 5th SeptemberDiscovery+14:00-16:00ITV4:10:45-15:45Stage 4: Derby to Newark-on-Trent, Friday 6th SeptemberDiscovery+:14:00-16:00ITV4:10:45-15:00Stage 5: Northampton to Northampton Saturday 8th SeptemberDiscovery+14:00-16:00ITV4: 10:45-15:15Stage 6: Lowestoft to Felixstowe, Sunday 9th SeptemberDiscovery+14:00-16:00ITV4: 10:45-15:30Read our full Tour of Britain preview including the start list, TV timings and stage profiles. Related Posts The 5 climbs that will decide the Tour of Britain 2024 5 standout Tour of Britain moments from the last ten years Tour of Britain 2024 favourites and riders to watch Tour of Britain 2024: Route, start list, how to watch and all you need to know The post How to watch the Tour of Britain 2024 (its free) appeared first on Cyclist.

Ben O'Connor is another day closer to winning the Red Jersey at the 2024 Vuelta a Espana following stage 12. On stage 13 however, the Australian will face arguably the biggest challenge yet in the defence of his race lead.It was a tricky start, it was actually really hard," reflected the Decathlon...