Nicola Rutzou
Cycling is constantly evolving and here we look at some of the latest gear spotted by Nicola Rutzou.
Ultimate bling with highly reflective Trek Chroma series
For the ultimate in bike bling, Trek has added new colours to its Project One reflective Chroma series.
Chroma is now available in eight all-new colourways: Mirror, Gold, Ivy, Pink, Root Beer, Ruby, Sapphire and Violet.
Chroma is a metallic paint with a highly reflective finish. Trek says it is made with a proprietary method that took its people nearly five years of trial and error to perfect.
The challenge was to create a chrome finish that would adhere to carbon fibre and use a much cleaner method than chrome bikes of the past, which often required toxic chromium materials. Every Chroma bike takes more than 12 hours to paint from start to finish.
Chroma is only available through Project One on Madone SLR models.
More info trekbikes.com
Campagnolo Super Record 13 groupset
Campagnolo has launched the new Super Record 13, the first road groupset equipped with a 2×13 derailleur.
According to Campagnolo, it is much more than adding an extra sprocket; the Super Record 13 represents the top configuration of the new development platform, the result of a completely revisited production process aimed at containing costs. This is due to significant investments in component automation and optimisation, which Campagnolo describes as a deliberate corporate choice to reposition the company’s product range.
Campagnolo says that the new Super Record 13 provides accurate, silent and immediate shifting, even at high power levels, and completely renewed ergonomics for the controls.
In developing the new groupset, Campagnolo has reduced the distance between the sprockets and decreased their thickness to house the ‘extra gear’. The new front chainrings feature a new surface treatment that preserves their durability over time and a new tooth shape designed to facilitate faster chain engagement during gear changes.
The new 13 speed groupset has an RRP of $6,999, and $8,999 with a power meter.
More info campagnolo.com/au-en
Bryton Rider 460
The new Bryton Rider 460 boasts a large 2.6-inch black and white screen, ensuring crystal-clear visibility in all conditions.
One of the Rider 460’s standout features is its new and improved Graphic User Interface (GUI), which offers intuitive navigation and easy access to a wealth of cycling data.
With an impressive 32-hour battery life, the Rider 460 supports popular electronic gear-shifting systems, including Shimano Di2, SRAM eTap, FSA K-FORCE WE, and Campagnolo EPS. After simple pairing, it also supports ANT+ radar rear lights.
Other features, such as Intersection Snapshot, take navigation to the next level, providing clear visual displays of nearby roads at intersections, ensuring you stay on course. Meanwhile, the Climb Challenge feature provides riders with graphical insights to help them conquer uphill terrain.
Available for an RRP of $220.
More info bikechain.com.au
New Factor Monza
The new Factor Monza is a road bike optimised for racers seeking a balance between high performance and everyday practicality. Taking its name from one of the world’s most iconic racing circuits, the Monza is built on the engineering of the Factor Ostro Vam. Factor describes the Monza as a true high-performance race bike that balances speed, efficiency, and real-world usability while retaining Factor’s racing DNA.
The new model retains an aero-optimised frame, tuned for efficiency in real-world racing conditions, while refining certain features and materials to reduce manufacturing complexity and costs.
The Monza’s head tube and fork feature converging contours, while the top tube, seat stays, and chain stays have smaller-profiled tube sections with tighter, more refined lines, enhancing both aerodynamics and manufacturing efficiency.
Integrated in-frame storage features a convenient latch mechanism for easy access to ride essentials, without compromising aerodynamics.
The Monza is available in three colours at launch – Solar blue, Steel Green and Pearl White.
More info au.factorbikes.com
Muc-Off mini inflator pocket-sized pump
Muc-Off has launched a new mini inflator pocket-sized pump. The new AirMach Electric Mini Inflator Pro builds on the success of the original AirMach Electric Mini and delivers rapid inflation up to 120psi. It weighs just 122g (142g with case) and measures 64.5x63x28mm, so it can be stowed in a jersey pocket or bike bag.
One of the most significant upgrades over the first-generation model is the LED display, which provides a real-time air pressure and battery level readout. With a 450mAh lithium-ion battery, the Pro version can inflate up to four road bike tyres on a single charge, and recharges in 30 minutes via USB-C.
The new model includes an AirHose extender, which enables compatibility with plastic valves and TPU inner tubes and makes it easier to inflate smaller wheels such as those found on children’s bikes. The inflator also includes an inflatable toy nozzle and a ball inflation needle.
Available for a retail price of $190.
More info muc-off.com
Profile Design one-piece aerobars
Profile Design has launched a new one-piece extension design in its new ASC Pro aerobars. Designed to maximise power output, the ASC Pro 43 Aerobar Extensions are available in three lengths – 325mm, 350mm, and 375mm – to suit different riders’ needs.
In designing the new aerobars, Profile Design focused on comfort, aerodynamics, and a custom-like fit. They provide a consistent surface from elbow to wrist, ensuring optimal rider position.
Constructed from one-piece carbon, the ASC Pro offers unmatched comfort and precision with its arm-hugging design, from the 43° grips to the high-sided Race+ shaped arm cups. Riser kits and tilt wedges are available for a tailored fit, along with the ASC computer mount.
More info profiledesign-au.com
Zipp built-in tyre pressure sensor
Zipp has unveiled its new 353 NSW and 303 SW wheelsets, with integrated live tyre pressure sensor technology. The new models are the first AXS-connected wheelsets, bringing them into SRAM’s electronic systems with in-wheel tyre pressure monitoring integrated into the rim.
The AXS wheel sensor includes a light that flashes green when the tyre is set to the correct pressure range and red when it falls outside it. It is more sophisticated below the surface, integrating with SRAM’s wider ecosystem, including SRAM’s AXS app, providing metrics and user guidance on the tyre pressure system.
The new system can also be integrated with Garmin, Wahoo and Hammerhead head units to provide real-time tyre pressure monitoring on the screen.
Alongside the new tyre pressure technology, Zipp had introduced a TPU tube that is fully compatible with the system. If a puncture isn’t repairable with sealant or a plug, the TPU tube can be inserted with the functionality preserved. Riders can also set the system up using the TPU tubes if they prefer that setup.
More info sram.com/en/zipp
Adventure guidebook for proposed Vic National Park
A new adventure guidebook takes readers inside the Victorian National Park that isn’t actually on the map yet: Great Forest National Park. The guidebook shares the destinations, activities, science and history behind the proposed Great Forest National Park in Victoria’s Central Highlands.
For over a decade, locals and researchers have mapped out a plan to declare the Great Forest National Park. As political uncertainty leaves the forest’s future at risk, locals have produced a Great Forest Park Guidebook to showcase opportunities for engaging with the park area while protecting it for future generations.
The guidebook includes hundreds of pages to inspire cyclists, walkers, campers, fishers, runners, horse riders, 4-wheel drivers and more.
More info greatforestnationalpark.com.au
Santini packable rainproof jacket
Santini’s new ‘Magic’ rainproof jacket is ideal for cyclists who brave the harshest rain conditions. It is lightweight and can be stored in its own rear pocket, making it an essential tool for sudden downpours. Crafted from advanced Polartec fabric, it offers superior waterproofing and is environmentally friendly, utilising high-elasticity recycled polyester in its outer layer and internal membrane.
With a retail price of $350, it is completely thermo-sealed and features a double-opening front zip, a slim fit, an extended back for enhanced rain and dirt protection and a high collar to block water infiltration. The reflective Santini logo on the back ensures riders remain visible during low-light conditions.
More info santinisms.com.au
