Wheels, gloves, waistcoat & grips: Parts in danger - parts in the test & what for the gentle wash

Ready to hand: Lizard Skins Gradient

The Gradient from the US label are ergonomic lock-on grips. They have a thickened wing on which the ball of the hand rests. It distributes the pressure. We can confirm this: The concept works. So thick on the outside (36.5 mm), thin on the inside (30.5 mm). However, the greenish teal colour quickly looks dingy. This cannot be completely restored even with a steam cleaner. We therefore recommend one of the six other colours. Weight: 116 grams (pair), price: 35 euros >> e.g. available here.

Conclusion: Pleasant and easy to grip - we like the Gradient. There are seven colours to choose from.

Strengths

• Ergonomic
• Grip

Weaknesses

• Teal colour looks worn quickly.

Heating blanket: ION Thermolite Hybrid Shelter

Waistcoats have long been underestimated in the bike industry, but more and more manufacturers are now recognising their advantages. Waistcoats keep the torso warm, but at the same time allow sufficient air circulation under the armpits. They are particularly effective in combination with a merino longsleeve. Ion now even offers two different models. Brand new is this model. The Thermolite insulation has a construction reminiscent of down. The cut is not particularly sporty, but rather loose (size L with a tester height of 1.78). Two zip pockets offer enough space for a smartphone and keys. The gilet is comfortable to wear, but is only suitable for a limited temperature range due to the warm insulation. From around 6 degrees Celsius, it becomes too warm during physical exertion. We recommend the tried and tested, thinner Ion Shelter Hybrid Padded Vest, which has just been reduced to 117 euros. Price: 190 euros, weight: 276 grams.

Conclusion: Good waistcoat, but only for the depths of winter. We recommend the thinner and proven Ion Shelter Hybrid Padded waistcoat.

Strengths

• Casual cut
• Processing
• Integrated glasses cleaning cloth

Weaknesses

• Gets too warm quickly
• Price

Tongue: 100% Brisker Glove

When it gets cold, you need warm gloves. The only problem is that most winter gloves have very little grip. But the Brisker does. The glove keeps the fingers warm enough in the transitional seasons and provides a lot of grip in relation to the insulation. Great from temperatures of around 4 to 12 degrees Celsius. Price: currently available from Maciag Offroad for 25 euros.

Conclusion: Great gloves for the transitional seasons. Good grip, sufficient insulation.

Strengths

• Grip feel
• Keeps you warm
• Touchscreen compatible

Weaknesses

• Lettering on the inside of the hand detached right from the start

Gentle wash: Rosnek flexible garden hose

Although the steam jet is efficient, it is bad for bearings and suspension elements due to the high water pressure. I therefore prefer the gentler and cheaper option. The shower head has several spray modes. The hose only expands under water pressure and contracts again when the tap is turned off. However, the water pressure from the tap is moderate. Price: approx. 40 euros.

Conclusion: Gentle washing, space-saving hose. Replaces the pressure washer only to a limited extent.

Strengths

• Retractable water hose, price

Weaknesses

• Only efficient with fresh dirt
• Processing head

Full broadside: Zipp 3Zero moto wheels

We carried out an endurance test for two years to check the durability of the Zipp 3Zero Moto wheels. These wheels are characterised by their wide, flat carbon rim without a hollow chamber, which is inspired by motocross rims. The design allows the rim to bend at certain points and thus offer more grip in bends, for example. It also allows the tyre pressure to be lowered further compared to a standard wheelset.

Our laboratory measurements have shown that the Zipps are actually almost 40 % more flexible compared to a very stiff FSA i29 carbon wheelset. However, we could hardly feel this difference while riding, as the frame, tyres and fork also play an important role in the perceived flexibility. Nevertheless, the wheelset didn't feel too stiff at all. Much more important, however, is the question of the durability of this expensive enduro wheelset. After more than 40 tours, bike park visits and trail laps, we can draw a positive conclusion: The 3Zero Moto wheelset is stable and reliable!

During our final laboratory test, we were unable to detect any visible signs of bearing ageing. The spoke tension remained virtually unchanged before and after the test. In addition, the slightly scratched but technically flawless carbon rims indicate a very solid overall package. The biggest weak point from our point of view is the moderate concentricity. Even when new, the wheels exhibited comparatively large radial runout at the front and rear. Weight: 1965 grams, price: 1840 euros.

CONCLUSION: Low-profile rims without hollow chamber with very good durability are the hallmark of the Zipp 3Zero Moto. Unfortunately a little expensive and heavy.

Strengths

• High-quality bearings
• Uniform and consistent spoke tension
• Sturdy carbon rim

Weaknesses

• Relatively high radial runout even when new
• Weight
• Price