Grips, knee pads, goggles & waistcoat: Already ridden - new parts in the first practical test
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Grips: SQlab 7OX 2.0 Pro
- Weight: 116 grams (size M)
- Price: 34,95 Euro
- 3 sizes available
Even good things can be improved - thought the ergonomics specialists at SQlab and have launched the second generation of their 7OX bike grips. With a new rubber compound and improved ergonomics the new SQlab 7OX 2.0 Pro counteract the notorious arm pump on demanding descents. To support the ball of the hand, but also to protect the grip from hard impacts, the outside is raised and cushioned. The softer rubber compound is designed to provide secure feedback from the handlebars and still be durable.
The grip really is outstanding. In combination with the numerous sipes and edges, the SQlab provides the best control on steep descents. Riders with a wide grip benefit in particular from the slightly rising and comfortable outer side. Even in size S, the 7OX offers a high level of cushioning. With a total of three different thicknesses, the grip offers a suitable option for almost every rider.
I grip the handlebars very far out. Here, the slightly rising outer side of the SQlab 7OX 2.0 Pro offers me a high level of comfort and good damping. Peter Nilges, BIKE Test Manager
Knee pads: Scott Soldier Ghost
- Weight: 250 grammes
- Price: 89,95 Euro >> at Mountain time or Mountain friends available
Unfortunately, the Scott arrived too late for our last knee pad test. The 250 gram protector would have fitted perfectly into the Comparison of twelve lightweight knee pads for trail bikers fitted. Its Lycra sleeve resembles a classic knee ring and closes at the thigh with a wide silicone band. For the protector, Scott relies on the very open-pored Level 1 certified Ghost pad from D3O. This ensures good ventilation even on warm days. The protector can be stowed away very compactly and is therefore a good option that you can always have with you in your rucksack or hip bag on tour.
However, the fit of the Scott Soldier Ghost knee pad was not entirely convincing. Two out of three testers found that it slipped far over their knees while riding. The protector only stayed in place when fixed under the bib shorts. The pad could hug the knee a little better. However, as long as the protector fits, it is comfortable and doesn't pinch over longer distances. Be sure to try it on extensively!
The Scott Soldier Ghost knee protector shows how important it is to try it on when buying a protector. The protector can only provide protection if it fits properly. Stefan Frey, BIKE test editor
Glasses: Oakley Encoder Strike
- Weight: 31 grammes
- Price: 245 Euro >> available here
Encoder Strike! What sounds like a computer ball game is in fact a harmless 31-gram touch of nothing on the nose. Even visually, the new sports sunglasses from Oakley are not as aggressive as the name suggests. The glasses have already scored points when I don't realise I'm wearing them. Nothing disturbs the field of vision, nothing pinches, with a clear view forwards and all round. Only in backlighting does the sun refracts in the ventilation slits of the lens and reflects disturbing light reflections.
Of the total of twelve possible lens variants with which the Oakley Encoder Strike can be fitted, we tested the "Dark Golf" version of the Prizm lenses, which are relatively light and therefore well suited for overcast days. As real sunglasses, we would choose a darker lens.
Oakley's large customising range allows the individual parts of the Encoder Strike to be individually designed, and the microbag is available in the look of various national flags at a price of 269 euros. Only the lens engraving costs 15 euros extra. There are glasses that cost almost 200 euros less and are just as good. But glasses are always a fashion statement. And that's why it can also be an Oakley.
Bike goggles have to fit perfectly and look good at the same time. If it's worth the investment, you can tick both boxes with the Oakley Encoder Strike. Georg Grieshaber, BIKE picture editor
MTB waistcoat: Ion Thermolite Hybrid Shelter
- Weight: 276 grammes
- Price: 190 Euro >> available here
For a long time, waistcoats were rather neglected in the mountain bike sector, but more and more manufacturers are now recognising their advantages. In the cold season, sleeveless vests keep the torso warm and still allow enough air under the armpits. Unbeatable in combination with a merino longsleeve. Ion now even has two lined models in its programme. The Hybrid Shelter MTB waistcoat with Thermolite insulation that we tested is brand new. The padding has a down-like structure and keeps you nice and warm.
The cut is more casual than sporty (size L for a tester of 1.78 metres). Two zip pockets offer space for a smartphone and keys. The gilet is very comfortable to wear, but has a very narrow range of use due to the warm insulation. From around 6 degrees Celsius, we find it gets too warm under load. The thick Ion waistcoat is therefore more suitable for winter. The tried and tested, thinner Ion Shelter Hyprid Padded waistcoat, which has just been reduced to 99 euros, has a wider range of use.
