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Interbike show
Las Vegas, Nevada, USA September 22-26, 2008
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Part 19 - October 21: Interbike bits and baubles
By James Huang
Hide from the world with Crumpler's new messenger bags
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Crumpler's new Toshi Squirt messenger bag was apparently inspired by some disagreeable sushi and a lack of appropriate restroom facilities but the result is nonetheless a darn cool way to haul your gear around. On the outside, the Toshi Squirt is essentially what we've come to expect from Crumpler's quality range of gear, with a burly 1000 denier nylon shell and assortment of pockets.
Flip the bag inside out, though, and you'll find one of four whimsical 'masks' that let you assume a convenient alter ego when the situation arises or what Crumpler sales rep Robert Wilkins refers to as "internal privacy with external personality".
On perhaps a more functional note, Crumpler also unveiled a new hydration pack, oozing with its usual stylistic flavour. The 'Bumper Issue' includes a total of five internal and external pockets mixed with an array of useful flaps and buckles to stash away gear. The interior is sized for a 70oz. hydration bladder though Crumpler apparently sees fit for users to choose their own as one isn't included. The back is exceptionally well padded, though, and there is a also a deep spine slot to relieve pressure and promote airflow.
Crumpler also introduced a range of rolling luggage as well. The Period Charmer is the smallest of the trio and is suitable for carry-on use while the largest Free-Standing Edwardian can swallow a substantial 82L of goodies. Various pockets and compartments adorn the line, including an easy-access laptop sleeve, and given the typical Crumpler aesthetic there is little chance someone will mistake one of these as their own.
Show off to the world with GoPro's new wide-angle Digital Hero camera
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GoPro's popular Digital Hero camera has enabled countless riders to capture both still and motion video thanks to its compact size, surprisingly accessible cost and wide array of quick-release mounting options for both bike and body.
New for '09 is a 170-degree wide angle version that offers a substantially more dynamic viewing experience than the original's some narrow 54 degrees and the sensor has also been upgraded to a bigger 5MP resolution. Thankfully, suggested retail price is still a very reasonable US$189.99.
In addition to full video and manual still operation, the new Hero Wide will also offer an automatic mode that captures an image every two or five seconds plus a three-image burst mode. GoPro claims a 2Gb SD memory card will store up to 56 minutes of 512x384px video with sound.
Stay tuned for a full review in the near future complete with some video samples.
Knog diversifies into tool lineup
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Knog is taking its keen design themes to new arenas with an upcoming line of portable tools and a smartly-styled cycle computer.
The N.E.R.D. computer head and wireless transmitter both affix to your bike with Knog's familiar wraparound silicone rubber housing which also seals both bits from the weather. Instead of conventional buttons, Knog turns the entire display into one big push-button to toggle through the nine or 12 features on tap and the speed updates via a neat 'rolling tape' type display.
Though not groundbreaking in terms of functionality, the N.E.R.D. certainly ups the style factor in what has mostly been a rather mundane segment. The nine-function computer will retail for US$74 while the 12-function model will net an extra US$15. Both are available in six colours.
Likewise, Knog's new tools probably won't set anyone's heads spinning in terms of feature sets but its clever flat-pack layouts might warrant a second look when they become available. Included in the line is a diminutive set of pliers, a convenient flat repair kit, and a trio of multi-tools with seven, 12, or 18 functions.
One of the coolest features by far is a magnetised spot on the multi-tools that can be used to keep track of loose hardware as you're wrenching on the side of the road or on the trail. While Knog's new tools won't be able to do the repair work for you, at least you won't have the excuse of lost nuts and bolts anymore.
New eyewear models from Tifosi
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Georgia-based eyewear maker Tifosi will add six new models to its lineup for 2009, all with modest retail costs of US$59.95 or less.
Tifosi's popular squared-off Dolomite will spawn a trio of smaller variants called Torrent, Dea, and Scout. All feature sturdy Grilamid frames and non-slip ear-and nosepieces but the Torrent and Dea models also sport interchangeable lenses. The Dea is specifically targeted towards women and the even-smaller Scout is aimed at kids though the latter model could easily work for anyone with an especially small face.
Those looking for more of a cycling-specific look can turn to the new Tyrant with its vented, interchangeable half lenses which extend a little further out to the side for more coverage. Semi-adjustable aluminum arms and an adjustable nosepiece allow for a customisable fit.
Looking for something with a bit more style? Then the Vogel or Helo might do the trick. Tifosi equips the Vogel with a single, non-interchangeable shield-type lens and a distinct 'Hollywood' look that would work just as well on the bike as off. The full-frame Helo is likely best suited for off-the-bike endeavors, though, with its full metal frame (read: heavy) and spring-loaded arms. Helicopter not included.
Thule goes lightweight with new Helium hitch-mount rack
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Thule is getting into the 'lighter is better' game with its latest Helium hitch-mounted rack, which reportedly weighs roughly half as much as its competition thanks to its aluminum construction. Installation and removal is even further eased by the tool-free attachment while a clever wedge in the main extension keeps everything from swaying. The included 'Stinger Swinger' adapter easily accepts both 1 1/4" and 2" square receivers.
Bike loading is facilitated by narrowly set arms that should accommodate more frame types than before and the new T3 cradles help keep the bikes from swinging into each other while in transit. A quick-release lever tilts the entire rack down (and presumably its contents) for liftgate access.
The two-bike version will retail for US$329.95 and the three-bike carrier will cost US$379.95.
Consumers that still prefer roof-mount carriers can instead opt for the new Prologue fork mount tray with its new easy-to-use 9mm quick-release head that supposedly will accept all disc brake and suspension combinations and a wide tray that will handle up to a 2.6" tyre. The Prologue will fit rectangular, round or aero crossbars and will retail for US$49.00
Premium car owners that have thus far been unsatisfied with the look of current roof-top cargo boxes might find solace in Thule's new Boxter model. A whopping US$799.95 will net you a stylish high-gloss, two-tone box with a substantial 18 cubic foot capacity and structural stiffeners throughout to cut down on rattling and vibration while upgraded struts ease one-handed opening. The Helium, Prologue and Boxter are all slated for delivery beginning March 2009.
Blown fuses are no problem for Kurt Kinetic trainer
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Kurt Kinetic's new Kinetic Energy trainer uses the same sturdy and stable steel frame we're used to but a novel resistance turns your hard work into something a little more useful than a puddle of sweat.
According to Kurt Kinetic, the resistance unit in its new Kinetic Energy trainer will generate 0.5kWh of electricity over a three-hour ride and then store it in an 18Ah battery for later use. The power can then be used for emergency use during power outages or even just day-to-day use to cut down a tad on energy costs.
The unit is fairly bulky, we've no information on how well the system works as a bona fide resistance trainer, and it's also rather expensive at US$500 retail including the power station accessory and battery.
Regardless, it's still a novel concept and Kurt Kinetic also hopes to introduce the system to third world regions that could actually stand to gain some real benefit from its use. As Kurt Kinetic puts it, the Kinetic Energy trainer is "human energy turned into a marketable commodity."
On a related note, Kurt Kinetic also reported that its special-edition pink Road Trainers raised approximately US$15,000 for the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. In total, Kurt Kinetic sold 835 trainers, all of which were pre-ordered before a single one hit the production line.
Photography
For a thumbnail gallery of these images, click here
Images by James Huang/Cyclingnews.com
- Need a moment to yourself? Crumpler's new Toshi Squirt bag provides "internal privacy with external personality."
- Crumpler will offer four different styles to suit your mood, including 'haz-mat'...
- ...'Robbie the Robot'...
- ...and a whimsical skeleton illustration.
- Crumpler also introduces a new hydration pack for 2009.
- Crumpler fans looking to haul a bit more can now turn to the company's line of rolling luggage.
- Crumpler continues to push the envelope for style for its existing messenger bag lines.
- New for Crumpler is a line of tote bags as well.
- Even the Crumpler booth was rather clever.
- The little 'dog' pins held everything together and the entire booth packed flat for easier transport. Nice work, guys.
- GoPro as a new 170 degree wide-angle Hero Wide camera that shoots still and motion digital video.
- The GoPro Hero Wide includes a generous array of mounts for both bike and body.
- Knog is moving into the cycle computer world with its new N.E.R.D.
- The 'rolling tape' display is somewhat gimmicky but neat to watch nonetheless.
- The silicone rubber housing easily attaches to handlebars or stems and also supposedly renders the unit waterproof.
- The wireless sensor also attaches the same way and is waterproof as well.
- Knog is currently working on a range of portable tools, too.
- This Knog prototype packs in 18 tools in a tiny flat-pack form factor.
- The Knog 'Porno Pack' includes tire levers and glueless patches...
- ...although given how cool the graphics on the patches are we're guessing some people might even be hesitant to use them!
- Of course, Knog still offers a complete range of bags.
- Tifosi will launch a trio of new models based on its existing Dolomite such as the new Torrent.
- The small profile Scout is intended for junior riders or women with particular small faces.
- The Tyrant is meant more for on-bike use the Dea is aimed at women looking for a little more style off the bike.
- Metal accents on the Dea add some more visual candy while small vents help to keep the lenses fog-free.
- The Tifosi Vogel uses a single shield-type lens for plenty of coverage on the bike and lots of style off of it.
- The adjustable nose piece makes for a customizable fit.
- Are you a chopper pilot? Neither are we but we like the looks of the new Tifosi Helo anyway.
- Thule's new Helium uses aluminum construction to strip roughly 50 percent of the weight of conventional steel racks.
- The soft rubber cradles are spaced closer together to fit a wider variety of bike frames.
- A built-in wedge in the main mast secures the Helium in the receiver hitch without tools.
- The new Thule Boxster sits at the top of range and also includes internal stiffeners to reduce vibration and noise.
- A convenient handle makes it easier to shut the Boxster lid when it's mounted up high on your SUV.
- Kurt Kinetic unveiled a new Kinetic Energy trainer that converts your hard efforts into stored battery power.
- The limited edition pink trainers from Kurt Kinetic reportedly raised about US$15,000 for the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.
