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True to feel: Troy Lee Flow gloves
I'm riding the lightweight Troy Lee Flow for the second season. The gloves are very comfortable to wear with their synthetic leather (palm) and stretch material (backhand). They are easy to slip on thanks to the Velcro fastening. So far, nothing has torn, tired or worn through. Not for mobile phone swipers - they are not touchscreen-compatible.
STRENGTHSFit, ventilation
WEAKNESSESPrice
Weight: 43 grams, price: 38 euros >> available here
Conclusion on the Troy Lee Flow gloves:
Good fit, easy handling, stylish. A little expensive.
Protector waistcoat: Fox Baseframe Pro Sleeveless
The protector waistcoat from Fox fits snugly against the skin. This is ensured by the thin mesh stretch material in combination with the flexible D30 foam inserts on the chest, back and shoulders. Top! The protector is not bulky under the T-shirt. Also good: the protector inserts can be removed for washing.
When riding in the park, the waistcoat doesn't get on your nerves at all and allows plenty of freedom of movement. However, there is also something to complain about. The back protector only covers the middle and upper part of the back. The lower back is unprotected - not a good feeling. Despite the thin mesh material, I sweated much faster in the park at temperatures above 25 degrees than with other waistcoats. Taking the waistcoat off in such conditions is really awkward.
STRENGTHSComfortable to wear, high-quality foam with EN-1621-1 certification
WEAKNESSES: Lower back is exposed, climate at temperatures above 25 degrees, removing the waistcoat
Weight: 830 grams (size M), price: 180 euros >> available here
Conclusion on the Fox Baseframe Pro Sleeveless protector vest:
Protector waistcoat with high-quality foam inserts on the back, shoulders and chest. Good wearing comfort. Minus points for details and handling.
Helmut 2.0: Specialised Ambush 2
Specialized has developed a new trail and enduro helmet: the Specialized Ambush 2, which is bulkier than the regular Ambush. Striking: the visor cannot be adjusted. Good or bad?
We found it strange at first, but then got used to it. In addition to the ingenious ventilation concept (which works well), the new Ambush allows you to clip your sunglasses into the front ventilation slots. This also works better or worse depending on the thickness of the temples. As with its predecessor, the adjustment wheel is integrated into the back of the helmet and is easy to operate. The helmet has the MIPS system, which is designed to cushion dangerous rotational forces in the event of a fall. In the past, the predecessor shone in the crash test with good values, the new one will perform even better thanks to more volume, we suspect, but we have yet to test this. In short: a successful helmet, but we like the predecessor Ambush 1 better; it is still in the programme.
The Ambush 2 is available in six colours, weight: 377 grams, (size L), price: 180 euros >> available here
STRENGTHSFeatures, weight, wearing comfort
WEAKNESSESPrice, Angle system only optional
Conclusion on the Specialized Ambush 2:
Good fit, useful features, high-quality workmanship. Top! Not everyone likes the bulky design. The slightly more expensive Ambush 1 should not be ignored.
Trail companion: ION Villain 8 litres
The ION Villain is a lightweight trail backpack. The 8-litre interior has enough space for everything you need for trail rides: spare tube, pump, rain jacket, spare clothes. Fits in easily! In addition to the hydration bladder compartment, there are two other small mesh pockets, e.g. for a smartphone or bar. Top: The 2-litre hydration bladder is included as standard. There are two more fist-sized zip pockets on the outside for stowing stuff.
The two small hip belt pockets can hold a mini-tool and car keys, but reaching into them is a bit tricky. The hip belts can also be removed, but I can't see why this is necessary. The hip straps are only thinly padded. When the rucksack is loaded, you can feel the narrow straps. Otherwise, the Villain wears well.
STRENGTHS: Lightweight, many pockets, price/performance
WEAKNESSESCarrying comfort with heavy loads
Weight: 450 grammes. Price: 100 Euro >> available here
Conclusion on the ION Villain backpack, 8 litres:
Lightweight, simple trail backpack with sensible pocket management and 2-litre hydration bladder. Good value for money!
Laurin Lehner
Editor
