2015 Triathlete Buyer’s Guide: Bike Accessories
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$150, Zealoptics.com
Instead of crude oil, Boulder, Colo.-based Zeal Optics uses either a plant-based or biodegradable material for all of its plastic frames. In addition to being eco-friendly, Zeal’s performance frames are built for the road: The Helix has rimless lenses for optimal peripheral vision, a durable yet light build and strategic cooling vents near the temples.
$20, Xlab-usa.com
This super light, threaded inflator fills your tube quickly with a simple push and allows you to start and stop flow during use as needed.
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$75, Zipp.com
Although Zipp has made tires for years, its recently updated Tangente is much improved from past models and puts them in the realm of the standard triathlon go-to favorite Continental GP 4000S II in real-world rolling resistance tests. And, for the high-end performance-oriented feel, the tires come in at a reasonable price point.
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$80, Lezyne.com
Not that aesthetics will help inflate your tires, but the Lezyne Alloy Floor Drive has a touch of style and quality feel while still functioning efficiently to get your tires to the ideal pressure. The gauge face is massive (3.5 inches) so you can easily read your PSI.
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$32, Pearlizumi.com
Anatomically designed with cushioning over the sensitive nerve areas of your hands, this well-padded cycling glove is a must if you’re planning on putting in a lot of miles. The Elite Gel Gloves are breathable and padded (but not bulky), and come in enough colors and sizes to meet almost any rider’s preference.
$35, Topeak.com
A saddlebag needs to be functional and big enough to hold your essentials to fix a wide range of mechanicals (multi-tool, tire lever, spare tube, CO cartridge, patch kit). The Wedge can hold everything you need and has a few features that make it better than other packs—it’s weather-resistant down to the zippers, has an extra separated pocket and twists off your bike for easy access.