2016 Triathlete Buyer’s Guide: Bike Fueling Systems
The six bike fueling systems featured in the 2016 Triathlete Buyer's Guide.
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$30, Zipp.com
The draw: Ample space for long course
Ironman and 70.3 racers will love the spacious storage compartment of Zipp’s Speed Box, and the expandable interior mesh pocket provides a great way to separate fuel and salt tabs. Zipp provides a clever and flexible Velcro mounting solution, which helps ensure a snug and secure fit on most bikes. The seam-sealed zipper adds to the overall high quality and does a solid job preventing splashing sports drink from mixing in with your bars and gels.
$55, Pro-bikegear.com
The draw: Precision crafted
PRO is part of the Shimano family of products, and it is clear the company knows the importance of quality engineering. The Aerofuel Bottle fits a wide variety of aerobar configurations, courtesy of the included extension brackets. The sponge design and placement eliminates splashing while still allowing for easy on-the-fly refills. It mounts snug and tight to the bars for a rattle-free ride.
$30, Torhans.com
The draw: Simple, elegant design
Torhans provides a sleek and aero-minded fuel storage solution for those riding tri bikes with top tube boss mounts, such as some Trek or Cervélo models. The molded rubber cover keeps fuel sources secure and easy to access at cruising speed, while the Aero Bento materials and clever design make for super easy cleaning after rides.
2016 Triathlete Buyer’s Guide on Triathlete.com is presented by PowerBar
$110, Profile-design.com
The draw: Personalized convenience
If you like the convenience of having all your fuel and hydration at your fingertips, then look no further than this well-designed system. Setup is easy, thanks to articulating mounting brackets, included extensions and Velcro straps. Have it your way when it comes to straw location and stowage with abundant options for personalizing the rider interface. A clever no-splash port keeps fluids in while still allowing hassle-free refills in motion.
$55, Specialized.com
The draw: System compatibility
Specialized may be later to this market than some, but the brand has clearly done its homework and caught up in a hurry. In fact, Specialized is innovating with its SWAT systems, which provide clever solutions for “storage, water, air and tools.” The Reserve Rack 2 features an optimally angled rib cage, which holds bottles tightly, and flat-changing tools (not shown) may be cleverly stored and are easy to access with optional add-on accessories.
$40, Xlab-usa.com
The draw: Incredible value
*Best In Class*
XLAB hits a home run with the Kompact 100. Lightweight, unobtrusive and aerodynamic, the Torpedo Kompact 100 is the simplest and most economical solution yet for bottle access and easy resupply at aid stations. It also offers an ideal and secure location for viewing your Garmin device. Say goodbye to the days of zip-tying your bottle cage flimsily between the bars—this XLAB system snaps into place on a variety of bar configurations with a satisfying “click,” allowing you to get out on the road in only a couple of minutes.