AHEAD OF THE CURVE
Keeping the dream of summer alive, this month the big hitters have come out to play. Stay Ahead of the Curve with massive drops from some of cycling’s best-known brands.
Specialized Epic 8 and Epic Evo 8 Mountain Bikes
The Epic 8 redefines the XC race bike landscape as the fastest on the planet, boasting unprecedented speed, efficiency, and a frame that's 76 grams lighter than its predecessors. Engineered for excellence, it features a 120mm suspension that positions it as the most capable and efficient design Specialized has ever produced. Its progressive geometry ensures optimal control and traction across technical terrains, while the Specialized Ride Dynamics team has fine-tuned the bike’s chassis and suspension for a superior ride experience. The Epic 8 offers three adjustable suspension settings tailored for varying race conditions. It incorporates the RockShox Flight Attendant system for real-time suspension optimisation, reducing pedal bob by 20% and absorbing 12% more vibration forces, diminishing rider fatigue significantly.
For riders seeking an edge in down-country pursuits, the Epic 8 EVO emerges as the top choice with 130mm forks, larger brakes, aggressive tyres, and optimised geometry for unparalleled performance on descents. Both the Epic 8 and the Epic 8 EVO exemplify Specialized's commitment to innovation, combining lightweight construction with premium FACT 12M carbon fibre and meticulous engineering to ensure every component contributes to the bike's exceptional speed and capability.
From £3,300
Albion LiDAR Jersey and ABR1 Pocket Bib Shorts
We're delighted to welcome back Albion. Dedicated to endurance and versatility, Albion’s design philosophy shines through in their award-winning ABR1 Pocket Bib Shorts. The choice of long-distance race winners, these shorts have a unique blend of comfort and practicality, feature a trio of pockets for essential storage, an Albion x Elastic Interface ultra pad for extended rides, and are crafted from recycled performance fabrics.
Complementing the bib shorts, the Lidar Jersey introduces a striking design that uses open-source LiDAR data to create a unique design for the jersey. It is engineered for optimal performance in hot weather, utilising lightweight, breathable fabrics and a race-fit silhouette to keep riders cool and aerodynamic.
Albion's focus on sustainable manufacturing and lifetime garment repairs further exemplifies their dedication to quality and environmental responsibility.
£155
Shop the Abus GameChanger 2.0 Aero Helmet
Introducing the GameChanger 2.0 MIPS, an aero helmet that embodies the pinnacle of high-end performance, designed in Italy with input from professional athletes. This helmet is engineered to provide riders with a significant advantage, optimising every watt for racing excellence. Its aerodynamic design, featuring a wider rear and the innovative Aero Blade, ensures minimal air resistance across varying speeds, angles, and positions, making it versatile for all racing conditions. Enhanced by the AirBoost air inlet and advanced ventilation system, it offers superior cooling even in intense heat. The helmet's fit is easily adjustable, providing unmatched comfort and stability, while the MIPS variant offers additional brain protection. Lauded for its aerodynamics, ventilation, safety, and comfort, the GameChanger 2.0 has been successfully used in competitive settings, including four Tour de France stage wins.
£225
Rapha Pro Team Aero Short Sleeve Jersey
Rapha's latest SS24 Pro Team Aero Jersey is a masterpiece of aerodynamics and rider-focused design. Crafted with the insights of World Tour professionals, this jersey represents the cutting edge of performance wear. Featuring Rapha's proprietary Italian Clima fabric, it is engineered to minimise drag and maximise speed, making it the fastest jersey Rapha has ever produced. It's perfect for riding in mild to hot conditions (18-32°C / 64-90°F), with a design that balances breathability and a compressive fit for aerodynamic gains. The updated construction includes a low-cut collar to avoid irritation and a refined sleeve design for a better fit across a range of body types. Explore the full Pro Team collection for more high-performance cycling gear.
£185
FFWD RAW Carbon Clincher Disc Brake Wheelsets
FFWD introduces the new RAW wheelset family, promising faster, lighter, and stronger performance. This family comprises three models with varying rim heights: the RAW 33, designed for climbing efficiency at a mere 1350 grams per pair; the RAW 44, the versatile all-rounder; and the RAW 55, optimised for speed with a focus on stiffness translating power into velocity. Each model features lighter rims, carbon spokes, and CeramicSpeed bearings within FFWD's custom hubs, available in matte and gloss finishes for personal preference.
The incorporation of carbon spokes not only enhances the wheels' aesthetic appeal but significantly boosts overall performance by 17% over previous models. The custom hubs, designed exclusively by FFWD contribute to the wheels' reduced weight, increased durability, and minimal rolling resistance. The RAW family offers a perfect blend of performance, exclusivity, and reliability, catering to riders aiming to push their limits.
£2,249