72 JUNE 2012

PEAKPERFORMER

TOPVALUE

Our awards Triathlon Plus has two awards that can be bestowed upon products featured in these pages

Peak PerformerA product that does a truly stunning job, regardless of its price

Top ValueAn outstanding deal – you’re getting an excellent product for the money

Xentis TT MARK II CLINCHER CARBON www.xentis.com

XENTIS WHEELS should look familiar to triathlon fans: you might have seen them on pro bikes at Kona, but until now they’ve been a rare sight. XeNTiS are now bringing in a full range and we were keen to get our hands on these radical-looking five-spoke carbon clinchers. The XeNTiS MARK2 TT are no lightweights at 1.8kg for the set; neither are they cheap. They use 65mm deep rims and XeNTiS’ own-brand hubs. At 24.6mm the rims are fairly wide too, so make sure your bike’s forks and stays will accommodate them before buying a set. On the road you can definitely feel their weight, both in getting up to speed and

in cornering. Once you get going, however, they hold speed very well and don’t exhibit sideways flex. Handling in a wind takes some getting used to, even when it’s comparatively calm – we had to be vigilant when, for example, a truck passed us going in the opposite direction. Taking that and their weight into account, we’d say that these are aero wheels for the larger rider.

These are stiff, bombproof and aero, but they’re a handful in crosswinds and heavyPERFORMANCE VALUEOVERALL

UPTOSPEED

THE LATEST TRIATHLON PRODUCTS TESTED TO THE LIMIT

BRANDNEWKIT

JUNE 2012 73

TokenC50www.token.co.zaToken gives you the C50. A lightweight

wheelset with extreme lateral

stiffness.  Perfect for time trials, triathlon,

climbing and just looking good. Included

with the C50 wheelset are wheelbags,

skewers, 48mm valve extenders, extra

spokes and nipples, a 2 year warranty, and

a crash replacement policy. You can spend

1000s more on other wheels that weigh

more and come with less and don’t live up to

their performance claims. For only R12000,

the Token C50’s are speed you can afford.

TokenC22Awww.token.co.za

Introducing the Token C22A

Superlite Alloy Wheelset,

one of the finest wheelsets

available anywhere. The

total package comes in at

a stunning 1300 grams for

clinchers. Included with

the wheelset are titanium

skewers, rim strips, extra

spokes and nipples, and a

2 year warranty and crash

replacement policy. The

C22A weighs in at only

R4800.

BRAND NEW KIT

THE LATEST evolution of Zipp’s 404 wheels are

undoubtedly their most predictable, comfortable and

versatile high velocity set yet, making them true aero

all-rounders.

The Firecrest tag comes from Zipp’s uniquely

blunt-nosed, fat-bodied rim profile. This is designed to

manage both leading and trailing edge airflow to shift

the aerodynamic centre of the wheel back towards the

hub, rather than near the front edge like simpler wheels.

This is immediately obvious too, with none of the

stubborn ‘tramlining’ effect of typical 60mm wheels

- and it doesn’t snatch the steering in gusting winds

either. You’ll still get shoved sideways by squalls, but it’s

very predictable and controllable. While aerodynamic

claims are hard to quantify categorically outside the

wind tunnel, heart-rate vs speed comparisons show

noticeable average speed gains and they hold speed at

much broader wind angles than conventional wheels.

The lightweight rims and 1,286g overall weight mean

they’re no slouch when sprinting or climbing either, with

no rim rub at maximum power.

The fatter profile and wider tyre base also makes

the 404s surprisingly comfortable so not only do they

increase speed, they also reduce fatigue. Increased

compliance means that you can properly chuck them

into corners and they are phenomenal descending

wheels. Braking is far better than most carbon wheels

too if you opt for Zipp’s Platinum pads. Not only are the

tubs 279g lighter than the carbon clinchers, but they’re

also much cheaper, making it well worth learning to live

with glue-on tyres.

Zipp 404 FIRECREST TUBULAR www.capecycles.co.za

Precision bearings, zero dish rear wheels

and DT spokes and nipples keep these hoops

fast and true. In addition, our clincher rims’

machined braking surfaces help you stop on a

dime when you need to, or feather your speed

on the way into a tight hairpin.

RITCHEYWCS APEX 88MM FRONT TUBULAR RRP R12 500www.bicicletta.co.za

Fastest, most aero and reliable front

hydration mount. No more splashing from

front bottle. Can save up to 7 minutes in an

Ironman event.

XLAB TORPEDO ALLOY SYSTEMRRP R325 www.bicicletta.co.za

g y

THOUGH BROOKS don’t describe their Pure

Project line as ‘barefoot’ shoes, it’s hard not to make

that association, and the Cadence is a support

shoe for people who’d rather not have too much

interference with their running. That said, there is

plenty of soft DNA foam cushioning under the full

length of the shoe and the upper, though light, is well

structured with overlays and a plastic mesh section.

Teamed with the Nav Band that runs across the

top of the midfoot, it helps to give a well-supported

feel. There’s also a soft medial post to help control

overpronation, but it’s much less pronounced than

on traditional support shoes. A low heel-to-toe

drop and shaped, minimal crashpad under the

heel are designed to encourage midfoot striking

for a more efficient gait. We found the Cadence a

pleasure to run in on steady runs, when the shaping

and lightness of the shoe helped us to pick our feet

up and land slightly further forward than usual.

However, on longer slow runs, they don’t quite feel

supportive enough for people used to traditional

support shoes, and on speed intervals we found

the shoes a bit too well padded for instant ground

feedback.

Brooks PURE CADENCE info@brooksrunningsa.co.za

74 JUNE 2012

BRAND NEW KIT

The 60mm deep Zipp-style fattened toroidal rim shape makes them aerodynamic in a

wider range of wind angles than flat rims. It also makes them more controllable in gusty

situations than most 50mm rims and they track tightly too.

SRAMS60RRP R12 795 www.capecyles.co.za.za

mshapemakesthem aerodynamic in a

FFWD Fast Forward ® is a young high-end brand

specialising in high speed wheels. Carbon only. Period.

FFWD’s goal is to deliver fast, lightweight and durable

wheels to the Road, Cyclocross, Track & Triathlon

markets. Distributed by ASG Sport, call them on 012 751 4130 to find your nearest dealer or visit www.asgsport.co.za/dealerlocator.

FFWDWHEELS FFWD THREE RRP R11 630 INCL VAT, FFWD DISC RRP R12 900 INCL VATwww.asgsport.co.za

FT3 is our top triathlon bike. Specific geometries have been

expertly studied for this extraordinary sports discipline, in

which athletes often have to confront courses that wind

up and down or have demanding climbs. Designed by our

Pinarello LAB in collaboration with our athletes, FT3 is at the

very top in terms of materials and construction technologies.

Torayca® 50HM1K Carbon to guarantee maximum racing

performance and safety. Distributed by ASG Sport, call them on 012 751 4130 to find your nearest dealer.

Pinarello FT3RRP FROM R90 000www.asgsport.co.za

FtechCUSTOM TRI KITSwww.asgsport.co.zaAn exciting new product range

being launched through ASG

International is Ftech Premium

Custom Clothing, made in Italy

since 1980.  Arguably the best

quality custom clothing brand

in the world, Ftech only uses the

latest technology padding and

materials in all its garments.

As a world class start, Ftech

offers you the following: 100%

made in Italy. Bodymetric

“Perfect-Fit” technology.

3D preview before you

order. Full or semi-custom

graphic proposals. 4-6 weeks

turnaround time. Powered by

Elastic Interface Technology

chamoises. Superior materials

and designs. Distributed by ASG Sport, call them on 012 751 4130 to find your nearest dealer.

SpeedoFLEXIFIT GOGGLESwww.speedo.com

Imagine swim goggles that don’t need strap adjustment? It’s now a reality with Speedo’s new Pacific

FlexiFIT automatic strap adjustment goggles. The world’s leading swimwear brand has produced

a specially designed soft frame goggle for swimmers who want an easy goggle fitting experience.

Speedo FlexiFIT strap technology stretches to fit without the need for manual adjustment whilst

maintaining comfort. The silicone strap is complemented by an anti-fog lens for excellent vision and

clarity and is available in clear, blue and smoke (black) and also available in the Speedo Junior range

in pink and black. For Speedo product details, contact Speedo on 021 461 0346 or

mail sales@speedo.co.za.

SpeedoCENTRE SNORKELwww.speedo.com

Speedo has launched a new

training aid - a Centre Snorkel

focused on reducing head

movement to improve kick and

stroke technique. Offering a

strategically placed airflow with

a purge valve, the Centre Snorkel

improves effectiveness by allowing

the swimmer to focus on stroke,

kick and body alignment rather

than breathing. It attaches easily to the goggle or a mask. The Centre Snorkel

boasts a SpeedFIT system, allowing quick and easy adjustment and a silicone

mouthpiece for a soft and comfortable fit. The Centre Snorkel can be used

with Speedo’s Universal Noseclip, featuring soft silicone pads for maximum

comfort, and the BIOfuse Aquatic Earplug with an ergonomic design to aid easy

insertion, seal and removal. All are available at most Speedo stockists now.

The Centre Snorkel is the latest addition to the comprehensive Speedo Training

Aids collection, which helps improve swim performance whether training for

fitness or competition.

JUNE 2012 75

BRAND NEW KIT

SIDIT3RRP R2390 inc. VATwww.asgsport.co.zaThe reinforced heel keeps the foot in an optimal position and avoids the shoe being deformed

by extreme performance or prolonged pressure. For walkability, Sidi cycling shoes include

a replaceable polyurethane heel pad. It is a new sole with a new design that replaces the

previous carbon composite sole. Distributed by ASG Sport, call them on 012 751 4130 to find your nearest dealer.

Hypermask™ performance is ultralight, aerodynamic and offers the widest field of view.

From cycling to running, kite surfing to triathlon, and even cross country skiing; Hypermask.

http://www.rudyproject.com/products/glasses/hypermask-performance/yellow-fluo/multilaser-blue.html

Rudy ProjectHYPERMASK PERFORMANCE RRP R2329 INCL VATwww.asgsport.co.za

Rudy ProjectWINGSPAN HELMETRRP R2400 INCL VATwww.asgsport.co.zaDesigned for time trial competitions, this helmet is

characterised by a contained and streamlined shape and has

large ventilation slots that favour constant air circulation

without harming the overall aerodynamics. Comfortable and

versatile, the Wingspan may be used in various configurations:

“closed,” meaning with the protection of the front slot (also

useful against insects) and cover for the tail, necessary to obtain

maximum aerodynamic performance; and “open,” meaning

without any protection or cover in order to ensure maximum

internal ventilation. Size unisize Weight 290g / 10,2 oz.

Distributed by ASG Sport, call them on 012 751 4130 to find your nearest dealer.

76 JUNE 2012

BRAND NEW KIT

For swollen, stiff and

inflamed joints and

muscles, take OsteoEze

Acute. The OsteoEze

Acute package does not

target your stomach!

With Glucosamine,

Boswellia Serrata,

Curcuma Longa

and Ginger.

Available at leading

pharmacies.

OsteoezeACUTEwww.nativa.co.za

An excellent and easy way to feed yourself

and keep your energy levels topped up during

a long session. Easy to chew and swallow,

and convenient to carry. Each packet of

chews sustains for up to 2 hours.

32GIENDURANCE CHEWSRRP R22.95www.32gi.com Uniquely, it’s a recovery drink AND

an energy drink. The carbohydrate

blend consists of six potent sources

with varying degrees of uptake,

although the majority is fast-acting,

as recommended. Available at most

leading retailers, pharmacies and

bike shops in a 1kg tub.

USNEPIC PRO ALL-IN-ONEwww.usn.co.za

Low GI to ensure prolonged energy. Electrolytes to prevent cramping. Advanced

carbo-loading. Intra-exercise formula.

BiogenCARBOGENwww.biogen.co.za

As an athlete, your body needs to be in peak condition at all times. Multibionta® is a complete multivitamin and

mineral supplement with the added power of probiotics - balanced to help you stay healthy and full of energy.

This breakthrough in worldwide nutrition has been developed through international research to produce a

formula that supports your immune system, as well as your digestive system. The probiotics in Multibionta®

enhance the uptake of vitamins, improving general well-being and resistance to infections. Multibionta® is

available from all leading pharmacies. For more information, visit www.multibionta.co.za.

MerckMULTIBIONTA

ISOACTIVE- Taste is king! There

are three refreshing

flavours: Lemon, Orange

and Red Fruit Punch

(with Pomegranate and

Raspberry).

- Contains no artificial

flavours, colours or

preservatives.

ISOMAX- Contains 70mg of

caffeine to boost mental

focus and alertness.

- Contains 3750mg of

very fast acting PeptoPro

protein hydrolysate,

which allows you to

perform longer by

delaying the onset of

fatigue. It also kick-starts

your recovery.

- Contains no artificial

flavours, colours or

preservatives.

Power BarISOMAX AND ISOACTIVEwww.powerbar.co.za

-Are the first sports drinks on the market to provide the body

with all 5 main electrolytes in the ratio lost through sweat.

- Delivers fast hydration.

- The C2MAX carb mix contains a special ratio of glucose and

fructose sources. Consumed regularly during exercise, this mix

can increase the amount of energy provided to muscles by as

much as 55%.

BRAND NEW KIT

SRAM RED changes everything. New SRAM RED represents the pinnacle of

road racing technology and delivers countless performance advantages to

the professional and enthusiast alike. For 2012, the new RED continues in the

SRAM tradition as the leader in light weight, flawless shifting, and ergonomic

advantage with gorgeous aesthetic styling. How did we improve on the world’s

best mechanical gruppo? We started with everything we knew, and then designed

a brand new drivetrain from scratch. Each part was engineered with the twin goals

of eliminating the superfluous while focusing on an overall synergy that translates

into unmatched performance. Elegant and simple, RED perfects the riding

experience through genuine innovation. SRAM RED changes everything.

SRAMSRAM RED

www.capecycles.co.za

SRAM X0 brings the right gear to your most heated trail battles—any

terrain and every time. Building an X0 bike is a serious, zero compromise

endeavour. Only X0 combines the highest-level technology options with

a style that matches you perfectly. A flawless bike needs to do more

than just work every ride; it needs to look the part. In addition to our

current colours, we are introducing the new chrome and polished X0

SILVER, reminiscent of our classic X0 design. Heavy metal look. Crazy

light weight. Build the perfect bike.

SRAMSRAM X.0www.capecycles.co.za