Category: Keepers

I’ve been riding the new 12-speed Shimano GRX groupset for a few months now, so I have a good feel for how it performs in real world riding conditions.

Earlier this year, I introduced our Lauf Seigla Race Wireless long-term test bike. As the successor to Lauf’s popular True Grit, the Seigla is designed to be smoother, more capable, and more versatile gravel bike. Did Lauf accomplish its goals? Today we’ll take a look at my experience with the Seigla so far.

While it’s true everyone has different needs in a saddle, I’ve found the Terra Argo X.3 to be remarkably comfortable and smooth-riding. It also offers a generous fit range, so it can meet the needs of a wide variety of riders’ needs.

Classic design wasn’t compromised where it matters most with the Silca Pista Plus. The ‘guts’ of this pump are just like those of the past pumps Silca is famous for. That means that parts are available to repair this pump, when that time comes, but I know that occasional maintenance will put that day off for years- maybe over a decade.

After six months of riding and yes, even a little bit of racing, it’s time to wrap up the long-term review of the GRX-SL wheelset from Gulo Composites.

For some cyclists, the threat of rain is suitable cause to postpone or cancel a ride. For the rest of us, there’s rain gear. And while for a lot of folks, cycling-specific waterproof outerwear is a good option, I often prefer the more flexible fit and increased versatility of a hiking/backpacking jacket.

The Atomik/Berd Ultimate wheels are made with a somewhat familiar rim material, but laced with the unusual Berd spokes, which have claims of lighter weight, but more importantly, strength and damping qualities for the rider. At a starting price of $1700.00 for a wheel set and up, depending upon options spec’ed, the Atomik rims with these Berd spokes have some stiff competition, so the claims are important.

Long revered among touring cyclists and RAGBRAI riders, Shimano’s SPD cycling sandals are also a popular summer option for gravel cyclists.

What I wanted was a smaller light form with as little weight as I could get, and with enough intensity front and rear to be worth using on open roads. I also wanted at least 8 hours of run time on a high level flash.

It’s amazing how good gravel tires are today, and these new Continental tires are great examples of the progress we’ve made. They’re not much heavier than a road tire, yet are true 40c semi-knobbies that can confidently be ridden in nearly any gravel conditions.