It's scorchio, so Callum is here with an official road.cc warning for you to remain indoors and join him for a day of two-wheeled miscellany.

Sam Oomen and Koen Bouwman have offered a grim assessment of the peloton's level compared to Tadej Pogacar. After the Slovenian dominated the Tour de Suisse, taking a commanding general classification victory and two stage wins, he prepares to start the Tour de France in search of a fifth crown. But...

Today at Eurobike, Blubrake is unveiling NEO, its third-generation ABS platform for electric bikes. The Italian brand introduced its first anti-lock braking system (ABS) back in 2021, with the goal of bringing greater braking control to the heavyweight e-bike market. Blubrake followed that up with ABS Gen2, which cut the size and weight in half, making it easier for brands to integrate into their bike designs. With NEO, Blubrake says its third-gen ABS is not an evolution. It is an entirely new platform, designed from the ground up to meet the needs of bicycle brands.What are those needs? According to Blubrake, the number of brands interested in offering ABS technology on their bikes is growing rapidly, but cost and integration (size) have been barriers to widespread adoption thus far. With its compact form factor, lower price, and open integration/communication platform, Blubrake is aiming for broader mass market appeal with its new NEO ABS platform.With its compact size, Blubrake NEO should be easier for bike brands to integrate into their e-bike designs.We are convinced that within a few years ABS will become a widespread standard on e-bikes, says Koen Van Der Weerd, Chief Commercial Officer at Blubrake. The strongest demand originally came from s-pedelecs, cargo bikes, and e-MTBs. With NEO, we are now seeing a rapid increase in interest for city and trekking e-bikes, since the third-generation ABS is significantly more compact and affordable.Blubrake NEO ABS connects to the front brake and modulates braking forcesBlubrake NEOABS is already a ubiquitous safety feature on cars and motorcycles, and Blubrake believes that e-bikes could also benefit from greater braking control and stability, especially as they get faster, heavier, and more numerous. Blubrakes third-generation NEO ABS performs the same function as the first and second generations. The system connects to the front brake and continuously monitors wheel speed and modulates braking pressure in real time to prevent wheel lock, rear-wheel lift, and skidding. In order to get ABS technology on more bikes, Blubrake designed NEO for mass market adoption and OEM integration. The size of the previous generations was a limiting factor, and based on the photos, they managed to reduce NEOs size to less than half of the ABS Gen2. Additionally, Blubrake says its system is open for compatibility/integration/communication with major drive and braking systems. Combined, its size and system integration should allow e-bike brands to incorporate ABS more easily while maintaining complete freedom in their designs. Blubrake says its more affordable, too.Size comparison of Blubrake ABS Gen2 (left) vs. NEO (right).The key challenge is integration, making ABS easy to adopt within the e-bike. That is exactly what we designed our product around: an open platform compatible with different e-kits, brake systems, and integration solutions, so OEMs can adopt it to their liking, says Van Der WeerdBlubrake NEO HighlightsCompact: The unit measures 96 38.5 35 mm and can be mounted in the fork, in the frame or into the steerer tube, preserving bike geometry and brand character.Open and compatible: NEO integrates with major drive systems, via standard electrical interfaces and CAN communication, including Bosch, Ananda, and Bafang, and with widely used hydraulic disc brakes such as Shimano and Magura brake models.Plug and play: Easy to integrate, easy to use, and easy for dealers to service: no dedicated maintenance is required beyond standard brake inspection.More accessible: A significantly lower price point than the second generation opens ABS to mainstream e-bike segments.Blubrake at EurobikeBlubrake is at Eurobike and is offering test rides on NEO ABS-equipped e-bikes at the demo booth area. If you happen to be there, you can find them at F12.0, B44. Otherwise, bike brands interested in testing the new ABS system can reach out to sales@blubrake.com to arrange for a demo. blubrake.comThe post Blubrake Introduces NEO at Eurobike, a More Compact and Affordable ABS Platform for E-Bikes appeared first on Bikerumor.

Nukeproof has launched the new Kilowatt, a full-power electric mountain bike powered by the formidable Avinox M2S motor. Revealed at Eurobike, the new Kilowatt will be available in alloy and carbon versions, with four complete builds ranging from 3,999 / 4,499 to 7,999 / 8,999. All models have 160mm of front travel and 150mm of rear-wheel travel, with the bikes supplied as mullets as standard. A flip chip enables riders to run a full 29in setup. The Kilowatt is the latest model from the Belgian Cycling Factory-owned Nukeproof and marks another important step in the relaunch of the brand. It is also Nukeproofs first Avinox-powered eMTB, following earlier Shimano and SRAM-powered bikes. However, Nukeproof says the Kilowatt does not represent a wholesale switch to Avinox. We are not switching to Avinox, we are adding it, Clive Gosling, Nukeproof brand director, told BikeRadar, adding that Nukeproof will use a multi-motor strategy across its ebike range. According to Nukeproof, the decision to use Avinox was driven by the systems power, torque, charging performance and compact packaging, as well as demand from riders and dealers. Riders and dealers are asking us for Avinox-equipped Nukeproofs, Gosling said. It seems Nukeproof has very much delivered, especially on price. The Kilowatt Alloy Pro will set you back 4,999 and is the cheapest bike on the market with the Avinox M2S drive unit bolted to it. Read more: Avinox is taking over here are 20 bikes you can buy with its incredible new M2 and M2S motors Avinox power, but Nukeproof says the handling matters most Nukeproof says the compact Avinox system helped it give the Kilowatt a cleane profile than its previous eMTBs. Nukeproof The new Kilowatt sits in the middle of the full-power trail and enduro eMTB space, with Nukeproof saying it wanted a bike light enough to rip local trails but capable enough for a trip to the Alps. Three of the four models use the Avinox M2S drive unit, with a claimed peak output of 1,300W and up to 150Nm of torque. The entry-level Kilowatt Alloy Comp uses the Avinox M2 motor, with a claimed 1,100W peak output and up to 125Nm of torque. Battery capacity depends on frame size. Small frames use a 600Wh fixed internal battery due to down-tube length constraints, while medium, large and extra-large sizes use an 800Wh fixed internal battery. Nukeproof says it chose a non-removable battery because it wanted the cleanest possible frame design, and to help the Kilowatt look and ride closer to its non-assisted bikes. Both carbon models come with Avinoxs 12A fast charger, while the alloy bikes are supplied with a 4A charger. The compact packaging of the Avinox system helped Nukeproof achieve a 22.2kg claimed weight for the medium Carbon Factory model, without pedals. That is not ultra-light by lightweight eMTB standards, but it is competitive for a full-power electric mountain bike with an 800Wh battery, gravity-ready tyres, strong brakes and a properly trail-ready parts package. Nukeproof says it has paid close attention to how riders have been modifying Avinox-equipped bikes already. Were also fitting proper tyres and burly wheels, which even though they have a weight penalty, mean you dont have to upgrade them to ride it as intended, Gosling said. Alloy and carbon frames designed to look almost identical Nukeproof says the Kilowatt Alloys hydroformed tubes and one-piece cast motor section were designed to mimic the smoother look of the carbon frame. Nukeproof The Kilowatt is built around two new frames: the Kilowatt Alloy and Kilowatt Carbon. Nukeproof says both frames were intentionally designed to look strikingly similar, with the alloy bike using tube shapes intended to mimic the smoother appearance of the carbon version. The alloy frame has been developed with a new manufacturing partner whose background includes intricate automotive castings. Tom Bugler, product manager for the alloy Kilowatt, said the alloy frame uses a complex one-piece cast section around the motor. This acts as a central junction for the frame, helping tie the tubes, motor and suspension mounts together, while enabling the alloy bike to mimic the smoother look of the carbon version. Bugler said the alloy Kilowatt brings together lessons from Nukeproofs previous alloy frames, including the Scout, Reactor and Mega, while carrying over some details more usually associated with carbon bikes. The hydroformed tubes are intricately designed, and both the seatstays and chainstays are asymmetric, which while increasing design time and tooling cost, makes a better bike, said Bugler. Key frame hardware and the suspension linkage are shared between the alloy and carbon platforms. Nukeproof says both frames use internally guided cable routing with a tube-in-tube system to make servicing easier. Horst-link suspension with Nukeproofs single-piece linkage Nukeproofs single-piece suspension rocker is claimed to increase stiffness between the front and rear triangles. Nukeproof The Kilowatt uses Nukeproofs familiar four-bar Horst-link suspension system, with 150mm of rear-wheel travel. Steve Jamison, product manager for the carbon Kilowatt, said the layout has been refined for more than a decade and is intended to deliver small-bump sensitivity and traction early in the travel, while maintaining mid-stroke support for aggressive riding. Nukeproof also highlights its single-piece suspension linkage, which it says helps increase stiffness between the front and rear triangles. Jamison said the Kilowatt is designed to combine the confidence of the Mega with the more versatile, adventure-ready feel of the Reactor. Gosling added that Nukeproof wanted the bike to deliver Avinox power in a chassis that can make use of it. It looks more like an analogue bike, delivers all the power riders could want and, crucially, has the handling and ride feel to help deliver that power in a platform tuned for the motor, said Gosling. Mullet as standard, full-29in compatible The Kilowatt is supplied with a mullet-wheel setup as standard, but a flip chip enables riders to run a 29in rear wheel. Nukeproof All Kilowatt models are supplied with a 29in front wheel and 27.5in rear wheel. Nukeproof says the bike can also be converted to a full 29in setup using the frames flip chip. The geometry is firmly in aggressive trail and enduro eMTB territory, but not at the extreme end of the category. Across the S to XL size range, reach figures run from 435mm to 500mm. The head angle is listed at 64 degrees on all sizes, while the effective seat angle is 77 degrees on the small and medium frames, and 77.5 degrees on the large and extra-large. Chainstays are 450mm across the range, with wheelbase figures running from 1,209mm on the small to 1,287mm on the XL. Nukeproof also appears to have kept the seat tubes relatively low, with lengths from 380mm to 460mm, helping allow for longer-drop seatposts. Nukeproof Kilowatt range and availability Nukeproof says the Kilowatt is expected to arrive in stores later this year. The launch is another sign that Nukeproof is moving quickly under Belgian Cycling Factory ownership, with the brand building out a broader range rather than simply reviving existing models. Kilowatt 297 Carbon Factory The range-topping Kilowatt 297 Carbon Factory gets the Avinox M2S motor, Fox Factory suspension, SRAM X0 AXS T-Type and DT Swiss HX1700 wheels. Nukeproof Frame: Nukeproof Kilowatt carbon, 150mm travel Motor: Avinox M2S, 150Nm torque, 1,300W peak power Battery: Avinox fixed internal battery, 600Wh size S / 800Wh M-XL Charger: Avinox 12A fast charger Fork: Fox 36 Float Factory, Grip X2 damper, 160mm Shock: Fox Float X Factory, 210x55mm Drivetrain: SRAM X0 AXS T-Type Brakes: SRAM Maven Silver, 200mm rotors Wheelset: DT Swiss HX1700, 29in front / 27.5in rear, Schwalbe Magic Mary Evo Gravity Pro Radial 29x2.5in front / Schwalbe Albert Evo Gravity Pro Radial 27.5x2.5in rear Finishing kit: Nukeproof Horizon cockpit, OneUp V3 dropper post Price: 7,999 / 8,999 Kilowatt 297 Carbon Expert The Kilowatt 297 Carbon Expert uses the same carbon frame and Avinox M2S motor as the Factory model, with a more affordable Fox Performance and SRAM Eagle 90 build. Nukeproof Frame: Nukeproof Kilowatt carbon, 150mm travel Motor: Avinox M2S, 150Nm torque, 1,300W peak power Battery: Avinox fixed internal battery, 600Wh size S / 800Wh M-XL Charger: Avinox 12A fast charger Fork: Fox 36 Float Performance, Grip damper, 160mm Shock: Fox Float X Performance, 210x55mm Drivetrain: SRAM Eagle 90 T-Type Brakes: SRAM Maven Base, 200mm rotors Wheels: DT Swiss HX1900, 29in front / 27.5in rear, Schwalbe Magic Mary Evo Gravity Pro Radial 29x2.5in front / Schwalbe Albert Evo Gravity Pro Radial 27.5x2.5in rear Finishing kit: Nukeproof Horizon/Neutron cockpit, Tranz-X dropper post Price: 6,499 / 7,499 Kilowatt 297 Alloy Pro The Kilowatt 297 Alloy Pro uses Nukeproofs new alloy frame with the higher-output Avinox M2S motor and a RockShox/SRAM build. Nukeproof Frame: Nukeproof Kilowatt alloy, 150mm travel Motor: Avinox M2S, 150Nm torque, 1,300W peak power Battery: Avinox fixed internal battery, 600Wh size S / 800Wh M-XL Charger: Avinox 4A charger Fork: RockShox Lyrik, Delta RC damper, 160mm Shock: RockShox Super Deluxe, 210x55mm Drivetrain: SRAM Eagle 70 T-Type Brakes: SRAM Maven Base, 200mm rotors Wheels: Nukeproof Neutron, 29in front / 27.5in rear, Schwalbe Magic Mary Gravity TLR Soft 29x2.4in front / 27.5x2.4in rear Finishing kit: Nukeproof Neutron cockpit, Tranz-X dropper post Price: 4,999 / 5,499 Kilowatt 297 Alloy Comp The Kilowatt 297 Alloy Comp is the entry-level model in the range, with an alloy frame, Avinox M2 motor and a 3,999 / 4,499 price. Nukeproof Frame: Nukeproof Kilowatt alloy, 150mm travel Motor: Avinox M2, 125Nm torque, 1,100W peak power Battery: Avinox fixed internal battery, 600Wh size S / 800Wh M-XL Charger: Avinox 4A charger Fork: RockShox Psylo Gold RC, Isolator RC damper, 160mm Shock: RockShox Deluxe Select, 210x55mm Drivetrain: SRAM S100 Eagle Brakes: SRAM DB4, 200mm rotors Wheels: Shimano TC500 hubs on WTB ST i30 Tough rims, 29in front / 27.5in rear, Schwalbe Magic Mary Gravity TLR Soft 29x2.4in front / 27.5x2.4in rear Finishing kit: Nukeproof Electron cockpit, X-Fusion Manic dropper post Price: 3,999 / 4,499

The Mille GTO S11 shorts are the latest iteration of Assos top-spec pair of shorts in the Mille comfort range, which feature in CW's guide top the best bib shorts. As with all top-of-the-range Assos products, the shorts feature an enormous host of proprietary fabrics with names only the Assos marketing department could concoct. So, lets get listing exactly what the difference between a kukuPenthouse and OSSIDIA are.The front of the straps sits nice and wide removing any constriction Future - Andy turnerThe cross-straps have become a staple of Assos bib shorts for a long time nowFuture - Andy turnerConstructionStarting from the hem of the legs up, we have the Inject leg grippers around the raw cut leg hems. These are more open than a traditional solid silicone band and claim to improve airflow around the leg while providing plenty of grip.This is fitted to the OSSIDIA material used across the main body of the legs and designed to wrap your large muscles in silky-smooth compression, as it states on the website. It uses warp-knit construction for an incredibly thin yet supportive material. Moving up from here the cranKio Tec darting around the hips prevents any bunching of the material throughout the pedal stroke.As we get to the waist, LOSANGA material is used across the crotch, which is non-compressive to reduce pressure and allows for greater airflow. This is paired with the famous kukuPenthouse chamois relief channel designed for male anatomy. The waist area here is also low pressure, or zeroPressure waist as Assos refers to it, making nature breaks easier and limiting constriction around sensitive areas. The straps have been revamped to be thinner in construction, similar to those used in the Assos Equipe RSR Superlger S9; rollBar is the extended strap which gives it two attachment points at the rear to keep the chamois in contact with the body while pedalling both in and out of the saddle. The front of the pad features the low volume highly breathable fabric and ventilation holesFuture - Andy turnerMore perforations are present at the sides while the main seating area is heavily paddedFuture - Andy turnerThe chamois has many features. It starts with the GTO S11 insert, a dual-layer 21mm pad with additional support under the ischial bones, commonly referred to as the sit-bones. It feels similar to a dense memory foam. The pad is suspended with goldenGate 2.0, where the pad is attached at the front and rear, but floating in the middle so that it remains in contact with the body to eliminate friction. kraterCooler are the large perforations at the front of the pad to allow greater air cooling and reduction in humidity, while whirlKrater are the perforations across the body of the chamois, apparently creating a whirlwind of cooling air. Standard and Long leg lengths are available, with a 3cm difference, while just black is offered as a colour option. Sizes range from XS to 3XL. The RideWhile they are comfortable once on, there is nothing that really stands out about the Mille GTO shorts pre-ride. That all changes when you hop on the bike and becomes more apparent the longer you ride for.The features such as the raw cut hems and new grippers work well, while the zero pressure waist does make for a comfy fit. The straps are also effective. It is only when you get into the riding position on the bike that all these features and elements really start to make sense though. The legs stay in place well, even over stubble or hair, while the cranKio darting really does eliminate any folding of fabric around the hip during the pedal stroke. This removes elements of discomfort I often have come to associate with simply riding for longer duration, and over the course of a few 5+ hour rides, it was noticeable just how comfortable the Mille GTO were relative to other shorts. Riding in the shorts, the longer I went the more comfortable they felt relatively (Image credit: Future - Andy turner)This is further exaggerated in warmer weather. The compressive yet impressively breathable OSSIDIA material works wonders as it gets hotter, while the lighter strap construction and LOSANGA material at the front of the shorts really help with temperature regulation.The more breathable panels at the front of the shorts also compliment the perforations within the chamois pad. There is a noticeable level of airflow at higher speeds and when you get out of the saddle. This will have the effect of reducing moisture in that environment, which in turn will help with hygiene and limiting gripes such as saddle sores. The Mille GTO pad itself is fantastic. I have been a bit fan of the Mille seatpads for a while, and this latest iteration feels fairly similar on first impressions, but again, as you ride it makes more sense. The higher density material in the pad really comes alive once you get into longer rides, or ride on rougher road surfaces. Vibration dampening is second to none and, as with other features, limits the rate of decline in comfort compared to a lot of competitors. Having the centre of the pad somewhat free to move also means that there is far less chance of having your body move across the pad which can lead to friction and irritation. Instead, it does move with the body how Assos intended. You can actually use the lower portion of the straps to shove a rolled up jacket under (Image credit: Future - Andy turner)I like the lower secondary attachment point on the straps that is used across the Mille range of shorts and tights. Ive actually found it useful as an external pocket for stashing lengthways a waterproof or jacket when not needed to free up pocket real estate.ValueUndoubtedly, 295 / $410 for a pair of cycling shorts is a considerable sum of money. The Mille GTO S11 are an exceptionally good pair of shorts, but Assos has now trickled down a lot of the great technologies and functionalities, which actually causes a bit of a headache for the GTO shorts.Ive tested both the Mille GT and the GTS, and the GT are my second favourite in this range, very close to the pinnacle GTO shorts. The pad features the same floating structure, the materials are comfortable, and the strap design is very similar. The grips are not as effective, and in hotter weather its perhaps not quite as breathable, but its close. It also comes in a broad range of colours which I personally am a fan of. The biggest issue for the GTO however, is that the Mille GT shorts are just 135 / $210.Comparing the Mille GTO with the Rapha Powerweave, Q36.5 Dottore, and other ~300 shorts, the Mille GTO are now my favourite for longer warmer rides. But spending my own money, the Mille GT offer so much of what makes the GTO a great long ride pair of shorts, but for about 45% of the price. The gulf between the two in price is huge, but the gulf between the two in terms of performance is barely a small stream you can step over. It extends in excessively warm weather or very long rides, but for most people, the Mille GT will be an exceptional pair of shorts for potentially one of the best value offerings out there for cycling bib shorts. This darting is an inspired idea that really boosts long ride comfort (Image credit: Future - Andy turner)ConclusionThe Assos Mille GTO S11 bib shorts are fantastic. Its not that the baseline performance is standout, but rather the rate at which they continue to maintain comfort over longer rides and warmer conditions. Whereas competitors may start to deteriorate in comfort, the GTO maintain their performance level. The problem though, is that many of the features that make them so great have trickled down to the significantly cheaper Mille GT shorts, which themselves offer possibly the best value bib shorts on the market currently.

Handy, wrapper-free, chewy oat bar for longer rides, but buy in bulk to keep the cost down

Ion Izagirre is enjoying one of the most satisfying spells of his long professional career. At 37, with the decision already made to end his career at the close of this season, the Gipuzkoan is relishing a campaign that contrasts starkly with the struggles he endured barely a year ago. The results h...

Belief is the word for Jonas Vingegaard ahead of the Tour de France. The Dane arrives as the Grand Boucle on July 4th determined to reclaim the yellow jersey he won twice before as he prepares for a showdown with Tadej Pogacar. The Slovenian has swept up the last two Tour de France crowns and has be...