New Arrivals – May 30, 2007 Edited by James Huang Got Tech? Send press releases, news, and tech questions to the Cyclingnews tech-heads. Welcome to New Arrivals, a section showcasing the latest equipment that's landed on the Cyclingnews tech desk. Look out for reviews over the next few months when we've clocked up some saddle time with this stuff. Cateye Strada Wireless and Strada Cadence computers Cateye's new Strada line of computers Photo ©: James Huang Cateye's cycle computers are a regular sight on the ProTour circuit (and occasionally on the MTB race scene as well) thanks to their reliable service, ease of use, and compact size. Moreover, the custom color schemes offered to its sponsored teams probably don't hurt, either. The new Strada line is easily Cateye's tiniest to date, yet the bold 14mm-tall main display and 7mm-tall secondary display are among its largest, too. Screen size is maximized through the new ClickTec interface, which turns the entire lower section of the computer into a button in lieu of conventional separate keys for 'mode' and 'set'. While already quite excellent, Cateye has also substantially improved its computer and sensor mounts. A new tool-free FlexTight computer bracket is quickly converted for use on stems or handlebars (some oddly-sized carbon models might present an issue), and new sensor mounts should prove much easier to set up on today's frames. The Strada Wireless is intended to supplement the existing Micro Wireless (since there is no backlight) and offers users the usual speed, distance, and timer functions, plus an auto start/stop feature, auto power-saving mode, programmable odometer, pace arrow, and dual wheel size capability. The wired Strada Cadence replaces the Astrale 8 and adds… surprise, a cadence function. Both units have tiny weights to match their tiny size: as mounted, the Strada Wireless weighs just 46g while the Strada Cadence adds just an extra 2g. Price: US$60 (Strada Wireless); US$45 (Strada Cadence) Sportful Hot Pack Wind Jacket The Sportful Hot Pack Wind Jacket Photo ©: James Huang In keeping with the 'less is more' mentality, Sportful's Hot Pack line promises maximum protection with minimal volume and weight. Included in the range is a jacket, vest, shoe covers, a full complement of warmers, and even gloves and a headband. The Hot Pack Wind Jacket gains its wind protection thanks to the tightly woven fabric, but water (and stain) resistance comes courtesy of a high-tech NanoSphere Teflon coating from Schoeller. According to Schoeller, the NanoSphere coating replicates the finely structured surface of the lotus leaf plant, which has been long renowned for its self-cleaning and hydrophobic properties. Think this sounds like a bunch of marketing hype? Perhaps, but the lotus leaf thing is definitely real and scientists have been working to replicate those types of natural technologies for years. In addition, Schoeller also claims its coating is more durable to washing and pressure (from hydration packs, for example) than other typical DWR treatments, and the self-cleaning properties translates into fewer trips to the washing machine, anyway. So-called 'gill vents' in the armpits Hot Pack Wind Jacket and a rear covered mesh panel below the neck add extra breathability, and a reflective panel on the rear pocket provides low-light visibility. The single rear pocket also houses a built-in stuff sack that is smaller than your average apple when fully packed, and the whole deal weighs just 84g in a medium size. The Hot Pack Wind Jacket is offered in four colors and an impressively wide XS-XXXL size range Price: £50 Trek Incite ACH Digital computer The Trek Incite ACH Digital computer Photo ©: James Huang At the opposite end of the spectrum in the 'more is more' school of thought, Trek's new Incite ACH Digital computer packs a heap of technology into its small body. Separate wireless speed and cadence sensors transmit digitally in the 2.4GHz frequency range for greater range and reduced interference, and a fully-featured integrated heart rate monitor completes the triple play. A built-in altimeter adds elevation and grade information (including maximum, average, and current grade), and there's even a temperature display so you know just how cold it was up on the mountain when that storm rolled in and you suddenly remembered that you neglected to pack a jacket because it was too heavy (see above). Dual wheel size capabilities, a low battery indicator, and built-in backlight complete the stacked feature set, and the handlebar mount will accommodate standard or oversized bars, too. As-mounted weight, including the HRM chest strap, is 126g. Price: US$179.99 Continental Speed King Duraskin tires Continental's new Speed King Photo ©: Jonathan Devich Continental's new Speed King is purpose-built for marathon racing with a pared-down and widely-spaced set of knobs that are intended to deliver low rolling resistance and good grip on mixed terrain. Its most impressive statistic, though, is the almost unbelievable low weight. Our test tires are just 550g each even with a 26x2.3" casing (measured knob-to-knob) and Continental's Duraskin sidewall protection. Only tube-type versions are available for now, but Continental does offer the tread pattern in a wide range of models and both 2.1" and 2.3" casing widths. The even lighter Supersonic edition (with its new Black Chili rubber compound) is claimed to weight as little as 400g, and there is a 700x35c model for cyclocross, too. Price: US$45.99 Bell Variant helmet The Bell Variant is a 'do-it-all' mountain bike helmet Photo ©: James Huang Bell doesn't try to pigeon-hole its new Variant helmet, preferring to just call it a "mountain biking" helmet. Indeed, its heavily-vented shell, subdued skate-inspired styling, and extra rear head protection should appeal to a diverse range of off-road disciplines. Features include Bell's outstanding GPS adjustable retention system, Fusion In-Mold Microshell construction (does anyone even just glue shells and liners together anymore?), internal reinforcement to prevent breakup upon impact, and an adjustable visor that's easily removable if you're so inclined. The Variant is available in five colorways and three sizes, and naturally, all are CPSC certified. Our medium tester weighs 310g. Price: US$100 Bontrager Rhythm Pro saddle A flat profile from side to side Photo ©: James Huang Bontrager continues to expand on its new Rhythm line with a new saddle aimed at the all-mountain crowd. Not surprisingly, the Rhythm saddle retains the original San Marco-derived version's cropped and squared-off hindquarters for easier maneuvering, but thicker padding, a longer and broader shell, and Kevlar reinforcement add some much-needed durability and versatility for the intended segment. Our Rhythm Pro tester is equipped with tubular stainless steel rails, bringing the weight down a reasonable 270g figure, while a more economical Rhythm Elite makes do with hollow chromoly rails to add about 50g. Price: US$84.99 (Rhythm Pro); US$69.99 (Rhythm Elite) Bontrager Rollbar multi-tool The Bontrager Rollbar is smoothly contoured Photo ©: James Huang The new Rollbar multi-tool from Bontrager aims to provide users with the most commonly used tools in a compact and lightweight package. Five hex wrenches (2.5, 3, 4, 5, and 6mm), Phillips and flat head screwdrivers, a bottle opener, and a keyring are sandwiched between two lightweight aluminum rails which incorporate recessed hardware for increased comfort. One notable omission from the list, however, is a T25 Torx bit for tightening rotor bolts, which already would have proved useful on one outing. To be fair, Bontrager includes that (among other things such as a chain tool) on its upcoming Rollbar DLX, and wanted to keep the standard Rollbar light, which it is at 96g. Price: US$15.99 Photography For a thumbnail gallery of these images, click here Images by James Huang/Cyclingnews.com Cateye's new Strada line of computers pairs a tiny body with a giant display, thanks to its new ClickTec feature that turns the computer itself into a button. The Strada head barely occupies any cockpit space, yet is easily visible on the bike. New sensors are easier to mount yet more accommodating for different frame and fork configurations. The new FlexTight bracket requires no tools for mounting and easily swaps from handlebar to stem positioning. The new Strada Cadence model utilizes the same tiny head shape as the Strada Wireless, and wired speed and cadence sensors are updated for a sleeker appearance and enhanced compatibility. The Sportful Hot Pack Wind Jacket is just the thing to tuck into your jersey pocket or hydration pack just in case the need arises. A single rear pocket is decorated with a bit of reflective material for nighttime visibility. Gill vents' and a mesh panel below the neck aid in breathability. The rear pocket also houses a stuff sack , and when fully packed, the jacket condenses to the size of an apple and weighs just 84g. The Trek Incite ACH Digital computer will leave few riders asking for more functions, with wireless speed and cadence, full heart rate monitor functionality, and a heap of other features. The Trek Incite ACH Digital computer head packs in a lot of information. Images by Jonathan Devich/epicimages.us Continental's new Speed King is aimed at the marathon crowd. Pared-down and widely spaced tread blocks are claimed to deliver a fast roll and good grip on mixed terrain. Duraskin sidewall protection is designed to resist sidewall damage. Images by James Huang/Cyclingnews.com The Bell Variant is a 'do-it-all' mountain bike helmet with subtle skate-inspired styling, light weight, and ample ventilation. The Variant provides a little extra coverage around the base of the skull… just in case. Bell incorporates its excellent GPS fit system into the rear of the Variant. Deep channels assist in moving air across the top of your head. The Rhythm Pro saddle is reminiscent of Bontrager's original models with its squared-off rear end for easier maneuverability. A flat profile from side to side promotes proper sit bone support. Kevlar is added to the rear for abrasion resistance. The Bontrager Rollbar is smoothly contoured for a comfortable grip and lightweight for easy carrying… …but unfolds to reveal a healthy array of useful tools.