‘Cross
Because the real race season starts when the conditions get crappy…
1. Raleigh RXC Disc Carbon
Based in the slop of the Pacific Northwest where ‘cross has a core following, Raleigh has put a concerted effort into its racing team and its bikes. That shows in this more affordable version of the pro bikes built around the Direct Connect carbon frame, which is light but pliant enough for abuse. $2,499; raleighusa.com
2. Giro Synthe
Giro’s new top racing helmet is the type of lid that will cut down on wind-resistance during the race and offer up enough ventialtion too keep your top from exploding when you hump it over those barriers. $250; giro.com
3. Louis Garneau Course Windpro LS Jersey
It’s tough to find a jersey that offsets the sweaty heat you pump out in a ‘cross race and the bite of the cold weather. Thanks to Polartec’s Windpro fabric this stylish kit has you covered on both counts. $220; louisgarneau.com
4. The Feed Pro Box
Not sure what or how to eat with all those overwhelming energy bar options on the shelves at Whole Foods? The Feed does the shopping for you, with a focus on race-ready nutrition, and then helps you create a custom energy snacking (um, training) program. $29; thefeed.com
Commute
The ride to work never felt better…
5. Yuba Boda Boda
We never thought we would say these words but this is one sexy cargo bike. The Boda Boda handles extremely well bombing down the bike path, but still offers up a big stable back platform to haul everything from your toddlers (we fit two on back) to that massive bag of root vegetables and fancy pesto you filled up at the farmers market. $1,000; yubabikes.com
6. INOVA X3A
This light got us through the short days of fall, serving up more than 3 hours of light at high power on three AA batteries. Plus, Night Ize Gear Ties make it easy to attach, remove and adjust at will on your bike. $55; niteize.com
7. Makers & Riders Suprema Jean
Meet our new favorite brand. Makers & Riders continued to impress us with these Polartec-powered jeans that make the transition from sloppy abuse on the commute to sealing the deals at the office. $195; makersandriders.com
8. Dare 2B Fortify Shirt
Don’t like stinking out your cube-mates after that pedal to work? The anti-microbial cotton in this breezy British shirt keeps the odor down. $60; dare2sport.com
