This all-new Lapierre Xelius DRS combines the best of the French bike brands lightweight Xelius SL & aerodynamic Aircode DRS to create one, even faster flagship do-it-all road race bike to rule them all. Adopting their Drag Reduction System naming for what was their Super Light road race bike, Lapierre reimagines a new Xelius DRS that is a claimed 15% more aero than either of its predecessors. They call the new Xelius DRS, the fastest bike ever designed for road racing.2025 Lapierre Xelius DRS all-rounder aero road bike(Photos by Villalba/Lapierre)Much of the same all-rounder Xelius SL3 looks are still here in the new more aero Xelius DRS, just taken to the next level which is no surprise. That lightweight carbon road race bike in 2022 was already almost as fast as Lapierres previous fully aerodynamic Aircode DRS aero road race bike. The same 3D Tubular seat cluster design carries over, extending the length of the seatstays into the middle of the toptube, and decoupling the stays from the seattube. Together, since the stays dont join the seat cluster, the D-shaped aero seattube and seatpost have more possibility to flex, filtering out vibration and increasing rider comfort.Faster on the flats, faster on the climbsBut now the Xelius DRS bike is a claimed 15% faster in the wind. That means a 14W savings at 50km/h or 7 seconds saved every 10km. Or, still at more regular human speeds of 35km/h, a savings of 5W. And since it takes you longer going slower, 10 seconds saved over those same 10km!Lapierre says the aero optimization came down to more advanced CFD analysis, then wind tunnel testing, that helped them rework a few key areas on the new Xelius DRS, while maintaining the Xelius familys signature lightweight and ride comfort. The engineering team focused on 6 core areas of the new bike (fork, headtube, downtube, seattube, seatstays, and 3D tubular seat cluster). They reshaped pretty much every tube to a thinner, deeper NACA or elliptical profile while tweaking carbon layups to prevent weight gain or uncomfortable stiffness where it wasnt needed.But the Xelius DRS is still a bit heavier than the Xelius SL, just +45g comparing the top-tier frames or +53g for the mid-level carbon frames. So, Lapierre did the complete bike math to see how far you still get the aero vs. weight gains. Apparently, for an elite-level rider (averaging 300W), the DRS will be faster up to a 10% slope. And for amateur roadies (~180W avg. power), the DRS is still faster up a 7.5% climb.Tech details2 levels of UD SLI unidirectional Toray carbon layup for both Xelius DRS frame & forkUD SLI mid-modulus >80% T800 & T700S mix for more rider comfort and lower price, suitable for all riders amateur & racerunpainted Xelius DRS UD SLI frame weight of 908g (size M claim, raw frame without hardware)UD SLI Team hi-mod ~30% HM, >50% T800 & T700S mix for lighter weight & increased performance, but still rider comfortunpainted Xelius DRS UD SLI Team frame weight of 790g (size M claim, raw frame without hardware)UD SLI fork 425g, UD SLI Team fork 390g (claimed, uncut)32mm max tire clearance, although for some reason they all come specd with 25mm tiressame proven geometry as the previous Xelius SL3 & Aircode DRS, just with a new XXL additionfully internal integrated cable routing through the upper Acros headset bearingnew light 325g 1-piece integrated Lapierre carbon handlebar cockpit with semi-integrated cable routing under the stemseparate alloy stem & carbon bars for the same integrated routing (plus angle adjustability) on bikes 5.0-7.0new light 128g proprietary Lapierre D-shaped aero seatpost. 0mm or 15mm setback, 350mm or 400mm longall bikes include rear thru-axle with multi-tool AND out-front GPS mounts2025 Lapierre Xelius DRS Pricing, options & availabilityOne of the greatest things about the new 2025 Lapierre Xelius DRS is just how wide the range of pricing is for the new bike. Lapierre offers 8 different complete Xelius DRS bike build options starting as low as 2900 and going all the way up to 10,000 with two spec levels for the carbon frame. Xelius DRS SO framesetPlus, theres a 4000 top-tier Xelius DRS frameset with the UD SLI Team layup for those who want to build it up on their own race bike including seatpost & cockpit. Even this colorful Summer Olympic special edition.The new aero all-rounder road bike comes in 6 stock sizes (XS-XXL) and in 2 color options per model.Complete bike build options2025 Lapierre Xelius DRS 5.0With the lower-spec carbon frameset, the 2900 Lapierre Xelius DRS 5.0 is the most affordable with mechanical Shimano 105 and house-brand alloy wheels. At 3700, the Xelius DRS 6.0 steps up to 105 Di2 & alloy DT endurance wheels, at a claimed 8.4kg. The 4200 DRS 6.0 AXS then takes that to a wireless SRAM Rival AXS 2x setup, at 8.5kg. The 4800 Lapierre Xelius DRS 7.0 goes back to Shimano, with an Ultegra Di2 build kit, at a claimed 8.2kgXelius DRS 8.0 AXSStepping up to the Lapierre Xelius DRS 8.0 for 6000, and you get Ultegra Di2, plus the 1-piece carbon cockpit and 45mm deep carbon DT Swiss ERC1600 wheels at 7.5kg. Or if you prefer SRAM, the 7000 Xelius DRS 8.0 AXS 7000 gets you the same setup, but with Force AXS at 7.6kg.One last build with the mid-mod carbon frameset, the Lapierre Xelius DRS 9.0 sells for 8500 with Dura-Ace Di2, a carbon cockpit, and a lighter mixed-depth 35mm front/45mm rear DT Swiss ERC1400 wheelset, at 7.2kg.Only the absolute top-tier 10k Lapierre Xelius DRS 10.0 and the frameset use the lighter, stiffer, more expensive UD SLI Team carbon layup. There you again get a Dura-Ace Di2 groupset, carbon cockpit, and an even lighter 35/45mm DT ERC1100 wheelset with ceramic bearings, now at a UCI limit-pushing 6.8kg weight claim. Lapierrebikes.comThe post Lapierre Xelius DRS Aero Road Bike Does it All, Lightweight, Comfort & Race-Ready Speed appeared first on Bikerumor.

Tadej Pogacar and Jonas Vingegaard have had epic battles in the past but it seems like in 2024 the UAE Team Emirates rider took a step that none of his rivals could match. After a pristine Tour de France, the Slovenian has set himself above all competition and in 2025 his rivals will need to evolve...

New sports directors, lead performance coach and head of performance support announced, among other changes

25 wins in 58 race days, a Giro-Tour double, two monuments and a world title, and much else besides Pogaars 2024 has been one for the ages. But how does it compare to cyclings other history-making seasons?

CyclistBest arm warmers 2024 reviewed: Easy layering in autumn and springArm warmers are a great option for those between-season rides, where summer kit is a tad cold but full winter kit is overkill. They offer extra warmth, a bit of wind protection and, depending on the model, sometimes rain protection as well. There are many different types of arm warmers to choose from, so weve collated our favourite tried-and-tested sleeves to help keep you cosy in the colder months.Cyclists pick of the best arm warmers Altura DWR unisex arm warmersGripGrab Classic thermal arm warmersVan Rysel Cold Weather arm warmersCastelli Nano Flex 3G arm warmersRapha Thermal arm warmersLe Col arm warmersDhb Regulate thermal arm warmersSportful 2nd Skin arm warmersShutt Velo Super Roubaix arm warmersEndura Pro SL arm warmersWhat are arm warmers?Arm warmers are essentially removeable sleeves, designed to work with short sleeve cycling jerseys and gilets in middling or changeable conditions. They offer the choice to remove a layer if you warm up during a ride or can be carried with you in case of dropping temperatures or changing weather. Different arm warmers focus on different elements, with some favouring out-and-out warmth while others may include water-proofing treatments to protect from the rain. The best way to choose the right pair for you is to work out which features most affect you and select accordingly. How we test and why you should take our word for itAs our team is based in the UK, we get our fair share of temperamental weather and spend most of the autumn and winter months riding out in the cold and the wet. As such, we know the key features as well as the things to avoid when it comes to choosing the best arm warmers. Led by our tech editor, Sam Challis, our team has individually tested all of the products listed in this guide to give you an honest and accurate representation of their strengths and weaknesses. Related Posts Best leg warmers for cycling 2024: Buyers guide Buyers guide: Best womens bib tights for cycling in the cold Buyers guide: Best winter bib tights for men Best winter cycling gloves 2024: Keep your hands warm in cold weather Best winter cycling base layers 2024: Keep warm on the bike Best winter cycling socks 2024: Keep your feet warm while riding in the cold Best arm warmers 2024 reviewed1. Altura DWR unisex arm warmersCharlotte HeadRRP 30 | View offerPros: Water-repellent, Soft lining, Great fit, Plenty of reflective detailingCons: Not warm enough for very cold temperatures, Limited sizing optionsSizes available: S/M, L/XLFit options: UnisexThe Altura DWR arm warmers have a curved fit which helps them stay in place while riding, and they use a combination of brush lined fabric and DWR coating to provide protection from rain and the cold. The reflective detailing is a highlight, which much more visibility than most warmers offer. The Altura warmers are soft and comfortable, with low profile seams. They arent the warmest so are best suited to mild-cool rides where theres a chance of rain.2. GripGrab Classic thermal arm warmersCharlotte HeadRRP: 34.95Pros: Warmth, Hi-vis colour option, Secure fit, Soft liningCons: Not water-repellentSizes available: S, M, LFit options: UnisexThe GripGrab Classic thermal warmers provide excellent warmth, great for colder riding conditions. The fit is simple but effective, with low profile seams and secure grippers, and the material uses a soft fleece lining for added comfort. The warmers dont have any water-repellent features, so better for dry rides, but are available in a hi-vis neon yellow for added visibility on darker rides. They sit in the middle of the average price range so, while not the cheapest, do offer good value for money.3. Van Rysel Cold Weather arm warmersCharlotte Head17.99 | View offerPros: Price, Highly stretchy, Minimal seams, Comfortable fit, Water-repellent treatmentCons: Not warm enough for very cold temperaturesSizes available: XS/S, M/L, XL/2XLFit options: UnisexThe Van Rysel Cold Weather arm warmers are an excellent set of budget sleeves that are highly stretchy for a secure but relaxed fit. The material is relatively thin, which Van Rysel says helps them dry faster if they get wet, and has claimed water-repellent properties. They arent hugely effective in the rain but are great for mild-cool conditions and would be best for those after smooth comfortable arm warmers that sit nicely against the skin. 4. Castelli Nano Flex 3G arm warmersCharlotte HeadRRP 45 | View offerPros: Water-repellent fabric, Very warm, Secure, comfortable cuffsCons: PriceSizes available: S, M, L, XLFit options: UnisexThe Castelli Nano Flex 3G arm warmers are some of our favourites. The upper cuff is thick and grippy, holding the fabric in place without being uncomfortable. The material itself is very warm and the water-repellent treatment performs well in wet weather. The Nano Flex arm warmers are stretchy and allow enough plenty of bend at the elbow and, despite being on the pricier side, are well worth the money for those after sleeves that will tick all of the boxes.5. Rapha Thermal arm warmersCharlotte Head45 | View offerRRP: 45Pros: Fleece lining, Pull tabs, WarmthCons: Price, Not water-repellentSizes available: S, M, LFit options: Womens, MensThe Rapha Thermal arm warmers have a brushed fleece liner which is soft against the skin and use a wide elasticated band to secure the material at the top of the arm. There is a pink pull tab which helps for quick on-and-off and the fabric is nicely stretchy and compressive. The Rapha Thermal warmers are great for when the temperature really drops and, though at the pricier end of the spectrum, are a good option for those with a focus on warmth. They dont have a DWR coating, so would be best for cold, dry conditions.6. Le Col arm warmersCharlotte Head40 | View offerRRP: 40Pros: Comfortable, Easy to get on/offCons: Price, No weather protectionSizes available: S, M, L, XLFit options: UnisexThe Le Col arm warmers use Italian Roubaix material which is fleece lined and very soft against the skin. The thick upper band and silicone grippers hold the warmers securely in place and the wrist is well elasticated for easy on-off.The fabric is relatively thin, and doesnt have wind- or water-resistant qualities so is best suited to mild rides where youre just after a little extra warmth. 7. Dhb Regulate thermal arm warmersCharlotte HeadRRP: 18Pros: Price, WarmthCons: Tight grippers, Slightly loose fit, Not water-repellentSizes available: XS, S, M, LFit options: UnisexThe Dhb Regulate Thermal warmers are a decent set of entry level arm warmers, delivering budget-friendly protection from the cold. The fleece-lining helps provide warmth and the warmers are made from Bluesign material. The gripper-to-material tension is slightly off, with the grippers running quite tight while the overall fit is on the loose side, but the Regulate warmers would be good for those looking to keep warm in the between-seasons weather at an affordable price.After Wiggles demise these are now discounted on the stores that still have stock.8. Sportful 2nd Skin arm warmersCharlotte HeadRRP 25.84 | View offerPros: Soft against skin, Comfortable fit, Seamless constructionCons: Not water-repellent, Middling warmthSizes available: S/M, L/XLFit options: UnisexThe Sportful 2nd Skin arm warmers are relatively thin and, while they provide some warmth, are better suited to mild autumn riding rather than colder temperatures. They offer a little protection from the wind but have no water-repellent qualities. They are made using a seamless construction and from soft fabric, so sit very smoothly against the skin, and would work best for those after lightweight, comfortable arm warmers for early autumn or late spring.9. Shutt Velo Super Roubaix arm warmersCharlotte Head25 | View offerRRP: 25Pros: Very warm, Eco-friendly claims, Fleece liningCons: Very long, Baggy fit, Not water-repellentSizes available: XS, S/M, L/XL, 2XLFit options: UnisexThe Super Roubaix arm warmers are made from fleece-lined fabric, which Shutt Velo says is moisture-wicking and is BlueSign (eco-friendly) certified. The Super Roubaix warmers are toasty, ideal for colder rides, and have secure elasticated grippers to keep them in place. The warmers are quite long, potentially too long for some riders, and the fit is quite loose in comparison to the tautness of the grippers. They would be suit dry, deep-winter riding where the temperatures are likely to drop into single digits.Buy now from Shutt Velo (25)10. Endura Pro SL arm warmers IICharlotte HeadRRP: 42.99Pros: Warmth, Water-repellent, Wind-proofCons: Stiff material, Very small hand holes, Hard to get on and offSizes available: S/M, M/L, L/XLFit options: UnisexThe Endura Pro SL arm warmers II use a PFC-free DWR treatment to provide high water-repellence as well as boosting the overall insulation. The Pro SLs are very warm and also delivery excellent wind-proofing. While the upper grippers are okay, the hand holes are very small in comparison to the rest of the fit which makes them quite fiddly to get on and off, and the material is relatively stiff. They would be best placed for those solely focussed on weather-proofing qualities (and who also have quite small hands). FAQWhat are useful features for arm warmers? Double grippers while inner grippers are very common to hold arm warmers in place, having an external gripper will also help hold your jersey in place over the top of the warmer which will keep the heat in better and be less faff. Wind resistance autumn/winter months are typically windier as well as cooler so having warmers with wind protection will help keep you warmer for longer.Water resistance while no arm warmer is going to keep you completely dry save for making them out of bin bags a good DWR treatment will help keep the majority of the water off your skin for a decent amount of time, especially helpful if youre starting and stopping where the water has more chance to chill you.Dexterity wind- or water-resistant treatments can affect arm warmer dexterity and end up feeling somewhat stiff. Its worth working out which features are a priority as its difficult to achieve all of the above. Related Posts Best leg warmers for cycling 2024: Buyers guide Buyers guide: Best womens bib tights for cycling in the cold Buyers guide: Best winter bib tights for men Best winter cycling gloves 2024: Keep your hands warm in cold weather Best winter cycling base layers 2024: Keep warm on the bike Best winter cycling socks 2024: Keep your feet warm while riding in the cold The post Best arm warmers 2024 reviewed: Easy layering in autumn and spring appeared first on Cyclist.

Kristen Faulkners journey to the top of the cycling worldhas been anything but conventional. At 31, she rides for UCI Women'sContinental Team EFOatlyCannondale and is the reigning USA National Road RaceChampion. In the 2024 Paris Olympics, she made history by becoming the firstAmerican woman...

The Sweet Protection Primer helmet delivers a high-end feel at a mid-range price point, making it a solid option for mountain bikers looking for comfort, safety, style, AND affordability. While it has some minor drawbacks, it still offers great valueespecially with the inclusion of MIPS technology.After several months of testing the Primer on my daily trail rides, I thought highly enough of it to add it to our list of the best mountain bike helmets for women.Review In A NutshellPros:Includes MIPS technology for added safety Doesnt snag hairHigh-end feel at a mid-range priceComfortable fit with no pressure pointsGood breathability, even on hot daysCons:Visor doesnt lock into place, limited adjustabilityNot rated for use with e-bikesPonytail-friendliness is overstated; works best with low ponytailsPrice: $150Buy at Backcountry.comBuy at Amazon.comBuy at SweetProtection.comMIPS Technology for Added SafetyOne of the standout features of the Primer is its integrated MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) technology. MIPS helps reduce rotational forces on the brain in the event of a crash. While Im not a die-hard MIPS evangelist (there is still limited third-party data on the efficacy), it still provides extra peace of mind when Im on the trails. Additionally, the best third-party safety ratings around come from Virginia Tech. While the Primer is a newer helmet and has not yet been rated, the other Sweet Protection helmets rate VERY high in the Virginia Tech study, so we can assume the Primer would too.There are several different types of MIPS systems. The Primer has the MIPS Evolve, which presents as a thin black liner. I dont like this quite as much as the MIPS Integra or Air Node which are integrated into the helmet rather than as a distinct separate layer. But, unlike some helmets Ive used in the past (the Smith MIPS helmets in particular) with attachment points for the liner, this design didnt pull or snag my hair, which is a welcome relief.Ponytail-Friendly? Sort of.The Primer advertises itself as ponytail-friendly, but I was a bit baffled by this claim. Theres nothing, in my opinion, particularly special about the ponytail compatibility here. The helmet is cut a bit higher at the back of the head, but it still requires a low ponytail or braid.Color Options: Some Fun, Some DrabI absolutely loved the lavender color of my Primer helmetits a gorgeous and fun option. However, the color choices for women seem limited, with only one other feminine option (a turquoise) available. The remaining color choices feel pretty drab, so if youre someone who likes to add a little pop of color to your gear, you might feel the same.High-End Feel at a Mid-Range PriceFor a mid-range priced helmet, the Sweet Protection Primer feels higher-end than its price suggests. With the exception of the visor (which Ill get to in a moment), the helmets build quality was on par with my POC Tectal, which is a more premium offering. (The MIPS version of the POC Tectal is $260, for comparison).The materials and fit felt durable and reliable, giving it that quality feel youd expect from more expensive helmets. It also has that trendy, cool factor, and I got several compliments on the helmet while wearing it.Me (on the left) in the POC Kortal, my friend Kristi on the right in the Sweet Protection PrimerThe Visor: A LetdownNow, onto the one big drawback for methe visor. Like the POC Kortal, it has several pre-determined positions you can set it at. This is different than the POC Tectal, for example, which slides freely and allows you to lock the visor into a position with a screw wherever you please.Once you determine the height youd like to set the visor at, it rests on a little plastic nook. It doesnt lock into place, meaning it tends to slip upwards. Thankfully, it didnt slide downward, which would have been more annoying, but I found it frustrating that I couldnt keep it in a lower position.Additionally, the lowest position wasnt quite low enough for my liking. I would have loved the option to angle it down more, especially when riding in bright sun. That said, the size of the visor was perfect offering plenty of sun protection without being obtrusive. It is also designed to break away easily in the event of a crash, which is an important safety feature.Comfort & FitThe helmet was super comfortable, with no weird pressure points or hot spots, and the straps were easy to adjust and didnt twistalways a bonus! Based on the sizing chart, I went with the M/L size, which is the same size I wear in both my POC Tectal and Kortal helmets.In hindsight, I wish I had ordered down a size. While the fit dial and cage snugged the helmet down enough to be secure, it still felt a little loosealmost like it was floating on my head. Ive found that MIPS helmets, in general, dont feel quite as snug as non-MIPS ones, and this was no exception.Its also worth noting that the rear fit dial is a little smaller and less grippy than many others Ive tested which made it more of an effort to adjust on the fly. The inside of the dial, however, is padded and prevents hair from getting snaggedonce again, a feature I appreciated.Breathability: Great for Hot DaysThe Primers breathability really impressed me. Despite being a mountain bike helmet, I found myself using it for commuting when I didnt want to arrive at my destination with a sweaty head. Even on 100-degree Boise summer days, the helmet kept my head surprisingly cool, making it a great option for hot-weather riding.On visual inspection, there are fewer vent holes on the Primer than the POC Tectal, but on the trail, I didnt notice any downgrade in terms of airflow. A Few Missing ExtrasWhile the Primer excels in comfort and safety, it does lack a few extras that would have been nice to see, like sunglass storage or Recco reflectors. Also, its not certified for use with e-bikes, so if youre looking for a helmet specifically for that, youll want to look elsewhere. At this price, however, Im willing to give up extras to get all of the must haves.Crash ReplacementAs is pretty standard with most helmet brands, Sweet Protection offers a crash replacement program. (Because you should never ride in a helmet that has crash damage). What is not standard is the discount on a crash replacement (40%) which is higher than most. (Smith offers 30% and POC offers 35%).Bottom-Line: A Stylish, Safe, And Affordable MTB HelmetThe Sweet Protection Primer offers great value with its combination of MIPS technology, comfort, and stylish design, all at a mid-range price. While the visor could use improvement and there are a few missing extras, its still a solid choice for riders looking for a high-quality helmet without breaking the bank. If safety and style are your top priorities, this helmet is definitely worth considering.More Stuff You Might LikeBest Womens Mountain Bike ShortsWhat To Wear Mountain Biking: Everything You Need To Know!Best Womens Mountain Bike JerseysAbout The ReviewerKristen Bonkoski is the founder and owner of Femme Cyclist.An avid cyclist for a few decades now, she took to cycling during her late teen years a time when she needed something to help boost her self-esteem and confidence.Mission accomplished, the sport has become an important part of her life. Kristens favorite disciplines are mountain biking andbike commuting, although youcan also find her crankingout a century on her road bike and touring with her husband and son. If it has to do with two wheels, she enjoys doing it.Kristen is a certified USA Cycling coach, and she runsRascal Rides, a website about biking with kids.IG:@femme_cyclistThe post Sweet Protection Primer MIPS Helmet Review appeared first on Femme Cyclist.

CyclistHow to choose the right power meter pedals for youThere is no shortage of choice when it comes to upgrading a rider setup to make it power-equipped. But with great choice can come great confusion. There are a number of key criteria it is well worth thinking about to ensure that a power meter is a good fit for a given type of riding.Some power meters offer more versatility across disciplines, while others are more specialised to, say, road-based time-trialling. Here are some of the most important attributes to look out for when making a decision. Discover moreabout Faveros Assioma Pro MX power meter pedalsCompatibility, type and portabilityGone are the days when riding a performance bike relied merely on feel and instinct. Nowadays, your power meter will need to connect to a head unit, smart trainers and other tech plus, whether its pedal-, crank- or hub-based will determine how easy is it to port across to different bikes or to travel with.Its also important to decide which type of cleats you will be riding. Road cleats are really only suitable for road-based riding where you wont encounter much mud or debris, while SPD cleat systems can happily be used on the road or off-road.As well as having a dedicated app packed with data, the Favero Assioma power meter range is compatible with all major third party applications including Zwift, Strava, Bkool, TrainerRoad, Rouvy and others, and will connect to indoor trainers and head units via Bluetooth and ANT+.Because they are a pedal-based power meter, removing and porting to new bikes is as easy as removing an ordinary pedal.Hiring a bike for a holiday abroad? You wont have to sacrifice any power meter data, as the Assioma pedals can travel too. This provides a significant advantage over crank-based power meters in terms of versatility.The Favero power meterexists both for road and off-road, offering versions compatible with Look cleats as well as Shimano SPD=SL and SPD systems.Accuracy and dataOf course, its every cyclists worst nightmare to think that our efforts arent being adequately rewarded. Any rider who has ever looked down to check whether or not a brake pad is rubbing, only to discover that its their legs that are the problem, will be familiar with this feeling.So, ensuring your chosen power meter has adequate accuracy and power readings is sure to be a key component of any decision. But some power meters will go beyond just these basic measurements and offer deeper insight into how riders are performing on the bike.With 1% accuracy and the option for dual-side readings, Favero Assioma pedals are towards the top of this category. In addition to accurately recording power output, the Assioma pedals keep track of left/right balance, cadence, power phases, power phase of the pedal stroke, and pedal smoothness. platform centre offset (force distribution across the pedal). Compared to the road-based Assioma Duo, the off-road-focussed Assioma Pro MX also offers the additional metric of platform center offset, which measures force distribution across the pedal.These different data points can help riders fine-tune the roundness of their pedal stroke and cleat positioning, both of which can help improve performance and prevent repetitive injuries.Battery life, weight and durabilityDifferent types of riders and riding will have different battery life requirements. Riders off on multiday adventures into the wilderness will have different considerations to dedicated roadies who ride for short, sharp blasts as part of their local chaingang. But if you can have longer battery life without sacrificing weight or accuracy, then it certainly makes life easier.Different types of power meter use different types of battery. Some are disposable cell-batteries, some need to be removed to be charged, while others can be charged on the bike. Rechargeable batteries have the benefit of being less susceptible to power dropouts than their disposable counterparts. Battery type will also contribute to a pedals overall weight, which is a factor for every kind of cycling kit.With any investment in high-performing equipment, especially that which is going to be used on unpredictable terrain, you want to be sure your device is going to withstand some wear and tear. With power meters, this means thinking about where the electronics and more fragile elements are going to be housed, and whether they will be able to withstand heavy treatment from bumps and tree roots.FaveroIn terms of all-round capacity, the Favero Assioma Pro MX pedals have strong technical credentials in these areas. Its rechargeable batteries can be charged while still on the bike, from the mains or a power bank, with a full charge providing 60 hours of runtime, while the 191.4g weight of each pedal is light next to competitors.All the electrics of the Assioma pedals are concealed in its water-tight spindle, which has a number of benefits. The vital electronics are totally protected, the weight of the pedal is concentrated centrally, and the lightweight aluminium pedal body if ever damaged can be replaced at a fraction of the cost of the entire pedal system. Its a pedal that is designed to stand up to some robust treatment.Price and feedbackThe final key metric to consider during power meter research is price, as well as how the power meters perform on review. Some power meters come included with the purchase of new electronic groupsets but, as mentioned, that can limit portability because it is far more difficult to remove a crank-based power meter. Its also important to note that moving from single to dual-sided power can add a significant cost.At 322.61 for a single-sided power meter (MX-1) and 484.33 for a double (MX-2) with free shipping, the Favero Assioma Pro MX pedals are very competitively priced, especially considering their nods to durability and resilience and the availability of affordable replacement parts.Make the right choiceWhile there are lots of different areas of specialisation for power meters, it is possible to get the best of many different worlds in just one system. Deciding which of these criteria is most important for your type of riding will help inform any decision about purchasing a power meter as you upgrade your riding experience.The Favero Assioma Pro MX range:Favero Assioma Pro MX-2 | 484.33Dual-sided power meter pedals for MTB XC, gravel and CXFavero Assioma Pro MX-1 | 322.61Single-sided power meter pedals for MTB XC, gravel and CX Discover more about Faveros Assioma Pro MX power meter pedalsThe post How to choose the right power meter pedals for you appeared first on Cyclist.

Lars van der Haar has won the Nacht van Woerden for the eighth consecutive time. The Baloise - Trek Lions have won both races today, as the veteran sealed the deal following his teammate Lucinda Brand in the women's race.The Dutchman continues to make history as he remains undefeated in this night...

A good mountain bike helmet is the single most important piece of gear you can have for mountain biking. Not only does it keep your brain intact (super important), but a quality helmet can also keep you comfortable and cool. Theres not much worse than an ill-fitting, hot, and painful lid.To help you find the best helmet for YOUR head, my team and I have tested, reviewed, and surveyed our community to identify the best mountain bike helmets around. Some of these are women-specific lids, but most are unisex helmets that just look good (and work well). Because unlike a saddle, for instance, theres really no need to have a womens specific helmet.Our Top PicksHelmetWhat We LoveList PricePOC Tectal Excellent fit, extremely comfortable$180Specialized Tactic 4High Virginia Tech safety rating$120Poc KortalRated for e-bikes, works with goggles$200Sweet Protection PrimerExcellent bang for your buck$150Smith Forefront 2LOTS of color options$250Smith EngageDurable and comfortable$130POC TectalPrice: $180 ListBuy at POCSports.comBuy at Amazon.comBuy at Backcountry.comThis is my favorite mountain bike helmet and the one I wear almost daily (as do my husband and son). Comfortable even on long rides, the POC Tectal offers superior rear-of-the-head protection while remaining comfortable.It has an integrated visor that can raise toaccommodategoggles, an enviable strap system, and comes in fun, bright colors. We also dig that it had Recco technology, so if you get lost or hurt while out riding, help can find you.The ONLY con on this helmet is that it doesnt have MIPS, so if thats important to you, choose a different lid, or upgrade to the POC Tectal Race MIPS. Read Review: POC TectalSmith Forefront 2 Price: $250 ListBuy at SmithOptics.comBuy at Amazon.comFinally a cute mountain bike helmet! In fact, I think Smith has some of the best helmets for women right now, coming a wide variety of attractive colors AS WELL as being functional.The Smith Forefront 2 isnt cheap BUT it does offer durability, safety, and comfort. The helmet has both MIPS and their proprietary Koroyd construction. The unique Koroyd design not only helps with impact protection, it also helps keeps bugs and bees from flying into your helmet! While the coverage and comfort are both excellent, the helmet is a bit lacking in terms of ventilation. It has lots of vent holes, but the airflow doesnt reach the head quite as well. Still, on all but the hottest days, this is a great choice.Full review coming soon!Specialized Tactic 4Price: $120 ListBuy at Specialized.comBuy at Backcountry.comBuy at Evo.comThe Specialized Tactic 4 is a top pick for those concerned about both safety AND affordability. The Tactic is the highest-rated mountain bike helmet in the highly respected Virginia Tech helmet ratings. We felt that the safety of the helmet was further solidified by the fact that it has MIPS technology, full rear of the head coverage, and its certified even for use with e-bikes. It is also ANGI compatible, which is Specializeds crash sensor. You have to buy the sensor separately, but there is a place to attach it to the helmet. You would expect this level of safety to come with a higher price tag, but in fact, the Tactic is one of the more affordable Virginia Tech five star helmets. Of the nine highest rated mountain bike helmets in their study, the Tactic is the only one under $150.The only thing that our reviewer didnt love was the fact that the visor is not adjustable, and that its not ponytail friendly. Read Review: Specialized Tactic 4Smith EngagePrice: $130 ListBuy at SmithOptics.comBuy at Amazon.comBuy at REI.comSmiths Engage is team member Malories go-to mountain bike helmet for rides. Renowned for its incredible comfort even on those extended trail rides, this helmet ensures a snug fit while boasting the added safety of MIPS technology.It comes with a two-position adjustable visor, though storing goggles can be a slight challenge. This helmet stands out with its variety of vibrant color options, a sturdy dial at the back for fit, and ample ventilation to keep you cool. If theres a downside, its the limited size range. Although it comes in small thru extra large, in testing, we found that smaller and larger heads arent well accommodated. However, its durability and comfort make the Engage a top pick. For those whove faced helmet crashes, Smith offers a generous crash replacement discount, underlining their commitment to rider safety.Read Review: Smith EngagePOC Kortal Price: $200 ListBuy at POCSports.comBuy at Amazon.comBuy at Backcountry.comThe POC Kortal stands out as a reliable companion for mountain bikers, emphasizing safety, comfort, and user-friendly design. The helmet has superior rear of head coverage, commendable ventilation, and a fit that ensures all-day comfort.It works particularly well for enduro riding and is compatible with goggles. The visor is larger than normal which we appreciated for keeping sun off our faces.Its design is tailored to handle both regular biking and e-bike adventures, certified to the Dutch NTA 8776 electric bicycle helmet standard.Drawbacks? Some might find it bulkier and boxier than preferred, and we experienced notable color fading over time.Read Review: POC KortalSweet Protection PrimerPrice: $150 ListBuy at Backcountry.comBuy at Amazon.comBuy at SweetProtection.comThe Sweet Protection Primer is a fantastic option for women looking for a high-quality, stylish mountain bike helmet at a mid-range price. With MIPS technology included, it gives riders peace of mind on the trails. Unlike some MIPS helmets, the Primers liner is comfortable and doesnt snag or pull hair, which is a great feature for women with longer hair. The helmet also advertises itself as ponytail-friendly, though I found it to be best suited for low ponytails or braids.One of the Primers strongest features is its breathability. Even during hot summer rides, the helmet kept my head cool, making it versatile enough for both mountain biking and commuting. The rear fit dial is a little smaller and less grippy than others Ive tested, but the straps are easy to adjust and dont twist or tangle.The visor, unfortunately, is a bit of a letdown. While it has multiple positions, it doesnt lock in place and tends to slip upward during rides. I also found that the lowest position wasnt quite low enough for my preference. Aside from that, theres not much to complain about. Read Review: Sweet Protection PrimerComparison Chart: Womens Mountain Bike HelmetsHelmetSizeWeightMIPS?# of VentsExtras?POC TectalXS/S: 51-54cmM/L: 55-58cmXL/XXL: 59-62cm340 gNo (Race version does)15Adjustable visorGoggle clips, Reco technologySmith Forefront 2S: 51-55 cmM: 55-59 cmL: 59-62 cm397 gYes20Koroyd, adjustable visor, camera mountPOC KortalS: 51-54 cmM: 55-58 cmL: 59-62 cm390 gNo (Race version does)17Certified for e-bike useSweet Protection PrimerS/M: 53-56 cmM/L: 56-59 cmL/XL: 59-61 cm389 gYes13Adjustable visorSpecialized TacticS: 51-56 cmM: 55-59 cmL: 58-62 cm380 gYes17Certified for e-bike useSmith EngageS: 51-55cmM: 55-59cmL: 59-62cmXL: 61-65cm350 gYes 21Adjustable visorHow to Choose a Mountain Bike HelmetNot sure how to pick the right helmet for you?Read on for things to look for in a mountain bike helmet.Safety/CertificationsThe good news is that you dont need to spend too much time worrying about which helmet is safest. All helmets sold in the United States have the CPSC certification which sets a minimum level of protection. Beyond that, we know that there are some things that most likely will improve the safety of a helmetthe amount of rear-coverage, the quality of the fitbut there is limited unbiased laboratory testing telling us which helmets are best.The best testing is probably done by Virgina Tech. While we like to use this as a starting point, the Virginia Tech ratings do have limitations. It does NOT rate all the helmets on the market, and is missing a fair number of what we consider really great helmets. It also doesnt test the helmets in the real world, and therefore doesnt capture how well the helmet fits on multiple head shapes/sizes nor how well a helmet stays in place on an actual trail ride. MIPS vs Non-MIPSOn the topic of safety, there is a lot of talk about MIPS. What is MIPS, you might ask? It stands for Multi-directional Impact Protection System. Without getting into the knitty-gritty it is essentially a liner inside the helmet that creates a low-friction slip-plane.There is limited third-party evidence that it is actually safer than a non-MIPS helmet. While I personally like the added protection of the MIPS, it does add expense and eliminates other helmets that offer a really great fit. Get the right fitTo make sure that your helmet is both safe and comfortable, you need to make sure first that youre buying the right size helmet. Most of the helmets on this list come in 3 sizes (S, M, L), although those sizes have different meanings across brands.In order to pick the right size helmet, youll want to measure your head. Reallystop being lazy and get out the measuring tape. With a flexible tape, measure the circumference of your head right above your eyebrows. Make sure to get themeasurement in centimeters as that is how most manufacturers size their helmets.You can then compare this to the size chart each manufacturer provides. For your convenience, weve included the sizes for each helmet in our comparison chart above.Unfortunately, even once you get the right size helmet, it may or may not fit YOUR head well. Some of us have rounder heads, some have more oval shaped heads.Even if a helmet works great for your best friend, it may not work great for YOU. For this reason, I suggest trying on some helmets from your local bike shop, or order somewhere with easy returns so you can try a few. Helmet VentilationOne reason it is worth buying a NICE helmet (any of the helmets on this list qualify) is the increases in ventilation. Cheaper helmets are notoriously sweaty and uncomfortable. Generally speaking, the more ventilation holes there are and the larger they are, the better the airflow. If you live in a hot climate, Id definitely recommend spending a little more to get a nicer helmet with better ventilation. Adjustment and strapsAnother reason to throw out a little extra cash is to get a helmet with a comfortable and secure adjustment system. All the helmets on this list have a rear-fit-dial that helps get the perfect fit for your head. We also really dig helmets, like the POC Tectal, that have clean, dummy-proof side straps.WeightThe lighter a helmet is, the more comfortable it is going to be on long rides. Although 100 grams may not feel like a lot in the store (in fact, it might be imperceptible), a few hours into an all day epic, there really is a difference. Again, weve included weight in our comparison chart to help you choose.BudgetThe good news is that you dont have to spend a fortune to get a nice helmet. Skip some of the extras like MIPS, a helmet mount, adjustable visor, goggle clips. Instead, focus on finding a helmet that is lightweight, has good ventilation, and that is easily adjustable. On the other hand, if budget isnt an issueadd all those nice-to-haves back in.Considerations for long hairThis isnt important for everybody, but if you have long hair and like to wear a ponytail while riding, you might want to look for a womens specific helmet that actually fits a ponytail. Helmets with more rear of the head coverage, while safer, generally make it harder to comfortably wear a pony or bun.In our experience, the helmets with MIPS liners also have a tendency to snag long hair which can be rather painful and make a mess of your do.More Stuff You Might LikeWomens Mountain Bike Jerseys You Will LoveBest Womens Mountain Bike Shorts9 Ways To Increase Your Confidence On The Mountain BikeAbout The AuthorKristen Bonkoski is the founder and owner of Femme Cyclist.An avid cyclist for a few decades now, she took to cycling during her late teen years a time when she needed something to help boost her self-esteem and confidence.Mission accomplished, the sport has become an important part of her life. Kristens favorite disciplines are mountain biking andbike commuting, although youcan also find her crankingout a century on her road bike and touring with her husband and son. If it has to do with two wheels, she enjoys doing it.Kristen is a certified USA Cycling coach, and she runsRascal Rides, a website about biking with kids.IG:@kristenlbonkoskiThe post Best Womens Mountain Bike Helmets appeared first on Femme Cyclist.