Everyday, upon waking up, I sort through me RSS feeder to see what is new in cycling products, training, and pro cycling. It's been a long time since I saw a new product that was really exciting. However, today I saw three products on BikeRadar.com that I think are worth mentioning.
The first product is the Stages Cycling StageONE power meter. It used to be that getting a power meter for your bike meant deciding between the $3000 SRM or the $1500 PowerTap (each with their benefits and the drawbacks). But the last couple of years has introduced a lot of new players to this market (Quarq, Power2Max, Rotor, Polar, etc.). I thought that these new products would drive down the price of power meters but that hasn't really been the case.
The StageONE might be a real game changer. With an expected list price of $699, I think this device will appeal to a lot of riders. I'm sure there is some functionality that you are giving up with this power meter, but if I can get 90-95% of the functionality at less than 50% of the price, I am OK with that. A word of warning, there has been lots of power meters "introduced" over the years that have not made their way to production (Garmin Vector anyone). So there is still the possibility that this is vaporware. However, this one feels different to me. I am definitely going to keep my eye on this product.
UPDATE: Cyclingnews.com has posted their article about the StageONE and it includes some additional information about pricing.
The second product is the Pearl Izumi X Project mountain bike shoe. I don't have as much to say about this product, but if I was racing cyclocross, I think I would be taking a look at this shoe.
UPDATE: Bikerumor.com provides a quick review of the X Project 1.0 and also presents the cheaper 2.0 and 3.0 models (be sure to check out the color on the 2.0...).
The last product is the Shimano Osaka messenger bag. I ride to work most days of the week and my clothes are dutifully transferred in my classic Timbuk2 messenger bag. I am not looking to replace that bag but if I was, I would give the Osaka a hard look. The styling is nothing to write home about but the shoulder strap looks like this would make for a comfortable bag.
Interbike 2012 starts today and I expect more products will be unveiled over the next week. If I see anything that looks interesting, I will write a quick blurb about it here.
Yes! I was geeking out about those shoes yesterday. I really like the way the 1.0's look. I may just have to splurge a bit and buy those when available.
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ReplyDeleteSeth, check out the 2.0s.
ReplyDeleteI did like the color on the 2.0, but prefer the buckle as well as the texture/look of the 'leather' of the 1.0 quite a bit better. They wouldn't compliment my kit much, but would compliment the bike nicely.. at least for now.
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