Already ridden: Hip bag, stem, shoes and co: New parts in the first practical test

XPro Ruckus

146 grams, 119 euros

In terms of aesthetics, the stem and Ahead cap are perhaps the most important parts of the bike, as they are permanently in the rider's field of vision. With its solid CNC look, the XPro scores plenty of points here. A choice of black or silver anodising protects the aluminium from corrosion. As the small Regensburg label specialises in dirt bikes, the milled part is only available in a length of 32 millimetres and with a 31.8 mm clamp. However, the stub stem also fits well with enduro and trail bikes with a long reach and gives them very direct control. Due to the compact length and the width of the clamping surface, the stiffness is high, but not uncomfortable in combination with the narrow handlebar diameter. Steering movements are
implemented very directly. Precise line selection is therefore possible at all times. The price is absolutely fair for the fact that the stem and cap are produced as a small series in Bavaria.

Even if there is little to say about a stem from a technical point of view, the elegant Ruckus is a real visual highlight. Jan Timmermann, BIKE test editor

Northwave Kingrock Plus GTX

1127 grams (44), 269.99 euros

Thanks to its lightweight lining, the Kingrock GTX as the ideal companion for temperatures up to around freezing point. In even colder conditions, the insulation was not sufficient for the test team. However, the greatest strength of the 1127 gram lightweight winter boots lies in their waterproofness. Thanks to the Goretex membrane and high neoprene collar, the boot keeps feet dry for hours even in extremely wet conditions. Water can only penetrate from above if the rain trousers are too short. As the cuff is equipped with two tabs, getting in and out is quick and easy. The Kingrock has a Velcro strap and a twist fastener to adjust it to the foot. For narrow feet, both adjustment screws must be tightened as far as possible. The Vibram sole also impresses with its high wet grip and good walking comfort. Only the price is quite high at well over 200 euros.

Thanks to the Goretex membrane and thin lining, the Northwave Kingrock Plus GTX winter shoes are an ideal companion from autumn to winter. Peter Nilges, BIKE Test Manager

100% Brisker Extreme

88 grams (XL), 44.50 euros

The Brisker is one of our colleagues' absolute favourite gloves when it gets cooler outside. Despite the light lining, it feels more like a summer glove: grippy, direct and super comfortable. However, it is not recommended below five degrees. Here is the Brisker Extreme jump in. Its softshell backhand is additionally lined with fleece, the cuff has been extended and now closes the gap to the jacket. The inside made of AX suede is still intended to provide a very direct feel. However, the plan is only partially successful: Hardy riders will ride the Brisker Extreme even at zero degrees. Braking, shifting, grip on the handlebars - everything is great. However, the Brisker still has little to offer in the wet. The long neoprene cuff fits tightly, but makes it difficult to put on, and the bulging seams on the fingers pinch. Whether the new Brisker will become a favourite remains to be seen.

Fidlock Hipbelt double

608 grammes, 159.99 euros

Bottle holders, helmet fasteners, mobile phone holders - almost everyone is probably familiar with the practical magnetic fasteners from Fidlock by now. The new hip bag is also equipped with these clever clips. Belt buckle, mobile phone compartment, protector compartment - all magnetic. Two 450-millilitre bottles can also be clipped on in this way - but only one is supplied. The second twist bottle costs 35 euros extra. With a little practice, the grip on the bottle works quite well. The waterproof mobile phone compartment is also practical. The main compartment easily accommodates the necessary tools. Protectors, jackets or spare clothes can easily be strapped into the tensioning straps. Only the buckle on the hip belt is less intuitive and awkward to fasten. Thanks to the large padding, the Hipbelt is comfortable to wear, but when fully loaded it tilts backwards and rocks during the descent. With only one bottle in the holster, a lot of space is wasted.

If you absolutely want to ride with a bottle on your hip bag, Fidlock probably has the cleverest solution. However, a hip belt is simply not made for two full bottles and the carrying comfort suffers. Stefan Frey, BIKE test editor

Rudy Project Kelion

32.5 grams, from 219.95 euros

Have you ever worn glasses made from castor oil? No wonder: the Kelion is one of the first glasses to be moulded from the bioplastic Rilsan. The Italians from Rudy Project have added high-quality sunglasses with a huge field of vision to their range, which can also be perfectly adjusted to the wearer at the nose bridge and temple tips. Protection and face coverage are optimal. Despite the ingenious ventilation in the frame and lens, we sometimes had to contend with slightly foggy lenses, especially in damp autumn conditions. We particularly like the simple lens change system - the frame splits at the push of a button. Top: The Impact X2 lens is tinted in contrast-enhancing violet, but is a little dark in the forest. Caution when buying: helmet and goggles can clash due to the height.