Fly Racing, 7iDP, and Ergon - Interbike 2013
Although Fly Racing's Freestone helmet may look similar to the growing number of helmets with extra coverage intended for all-mountain usage, there are several features that help it stand out from the crowd. One such feature is the addition of dual density foam in strategic places along the inside of the helmet for added impact protection. The helmet also has a retention system that's adjustable with a simple ratcheting dial, and a detachable visor that uses mounting system similar to what is typically found on full face helmets, allowing it to be set in a wide range of positions. The helmet's inner liner even has a mesh portion to keep bugs from flying in through the front vents, a useful perk, one that anyone who's ever been stung by a wayward bee will appreciate. The Freestone helmet is expected to be available in January of 2014, with multiple color options, including black, fluorescent yellow/black, red/white, white, and blue (shown). The claimed weight is 317 grams, and the MSRP is $109.99 USD.
www.flyracing.com
7iDP (iDP stands for Intelligent Design Protection) is a newcomer to the world of protective mountain bike wear, but their upcoming products have already been tested by the likes of Steve Peat, Brook MacDonald, and Kurt Sorge. The Covert knee guard (top) has three removable layers of protection: two foam pads, and a plastic shell. Users can decide what level of impact resistance they're looking for and then slide the pads they want to use into a sleeve found inside the abrasion resistant, pull-on outer portion. This gives the pads the versatility to be thick and robust enough for use in the bike park or DH racing, where hard impacts are more common, as well as being low profile and thin for longer rides that have more pedaling and less chance of knee smashing. The Covert pads will retail for $89.95 USD and should be available in March of 2014.
The Control knee guards are 7iDP's highest end offering, with a Boa closure system that uses a thin steel cable to customize the fit of the pads, and a floating internal knee cup to keep the pads from sliding out of place. The Control knee pad is a slip on affair, but the Control knee/shin pads have a slightly different design that lets them be removed without the user needing to take off their shoes. The pads' hard outer shell is made from a material called Curv that's similar to carbon fiber, but is more flexible, which makes it better for pedalling. The knee/shin pads will be $199.95, and the knee pads will be $169.95. Elbow guards will also be offered for $149.95 USD, with March 2014 availability.
Ergon recently launched their Enduro Series, a line of grips, saddles and packs intended for, you guessed it 'enduro riding'. We're starting to develop a twitch every time we hear mountain biking's latest buzzword, but trendy catchphrases aside, Ergon has worked hard to ensure their new products meet the needs of the modern mountain biker. The SME3 saddle has a flat rear portion and rounded edges combined with a shorter nose section, a shape intended to make it easier for riders to shift their body position on technical sections of trail. There are three versions available with different rail constructions, with prices ranging from $70-200 USD. The GE1 grips are designed to work best with wide bars, with ergonomics based around the elbows out riding style that comes with the use of wider handlebars. The GE1 uses two different rubber compounds for vibration damping, and the lock on grip is located inboard, letting riders use their whole handlebar without needing to deal with any uncomfortable protrusions on the outside of the grip. Colors: blue, red, black, grey. MSRP: $34.95
We've had good luck with Ergon's BA3 backpack, and for 2014 the pack is updated with a slot to accept Ergon's new back protector that can be installed for use at races that require spine protection. Constructed from three layers of foam/EPS, the BP100 weighs only 140 grams, and is articulated to conform to the contours of the wearer's body. Plus, the BP100 will fit in most hydration packs that take a 100oz bladder, not just Ergon packs. At only $32, the BP100 is an inexpensive piece of insurance for riders seeking additional spine protection without donning a protective shirt or vest, and a huge improvement over the contrived cardboard and duct tape contraptions we've seen riders use to skirt the rules during races.
www.ergon-bike.com
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I hope you protect your body with a suit of armour too.
obviously the brain counts for nothing! well i suppose in this case it doesnt.
i think they want to take this sport to a level that only the rich can participate in the future.,. and take out the common people..
and the stupid closure thing i copied from reebok ? shoes.. and within the first couple of falls it will break i "assume" !!
as they did with the shoes..
ride.io/news/new-brand-seven-idp
Be reasonable and intelligent, I'm fairly sure you're all capable of it.
Exactly, and when it breaks, Boa has your back.
www.vitalmtb.com/photos/features/First-Look-7-Protection,6359/Slideshow,0/bturman,109
Falling on a Boa will usually result in the snake wrapping itself tightly around you and constricting you (hence the full name Boa Constrictor) until you cannot breathe and die.
Next time on 'What happens when you fall on snakes' we talk about the deadly King Cobra!
Hope you can join us!