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Everyone is happy to receive presents. For BIKE editor Jan Timmermann, a successful present includes gifts that have a real practical use. Particularly popular: the contact points between bike and rider. If they are no good, the overall perception of the bike experience and, in the worst case, the riding characteristics quickly suffer. For marathon bikers like Jan, high-quality shoes and pedals are essential basic equipment. High-quality components made of lightweight carbon and titanium can cost a certain amount of money. But Christmas shopping doesn't necessarily have to be expensive. Jan also has a little life hack up his sleeve for bikes with twist grip lockout. Every racer is guaranteed to be happy about this!
1st Canyon Tempr CFR off-road shoes
Canyon only entered the mountain bike shoe market this year and immediately hit the mark. Two high-quality Boa fasteners and a stretch tongue ensure a good fit. As feet expand considerably at high wattages, the Tempr leaves extra space in the forefoot area. Vibram applications under the carbon sole ensure a secure footing in the terrain. The insoles come from ergonomics experts Solestar and support the foot in its natural movement. - 329.95 Euro
Once my feet had got used to the airy Canyon Tempr, they survived a 330 kilometre non-stop ride with over 2600 metres of altitude without pain. Power transmission and handling are at a high level and match the price. - Jan Timmermann, BIKE test editor
2nd Time Atac XC12 pedals
Only very few bikers will spend so much money on a pair of pedals. Those who treat themselves to these jewels among the race pedals can look forward to particularly smooth engagement and disengagement with the in-house cleats. The titanium axle and carbon body reduce the weight to a homeopathic 239 grams. A certain degree of freedom of movement should protect the rider from injury and fatigue. The tension of the springs is adjustable, the look is classy. - 330 Euro >> e.g. at Bike Components available at a reduced price.
Time pedals were already on my list of gift recommendations last year. With the extremely smooth Time Atac XC12, however, the French have now taken the cake. I had no problems with the expensive parts on the almost 18,000 metres of altitude covered on the BIKE Transalp. A drop of oil every now and then helps against creaking. - Jan Timmermann, BIKE test editor
3rd ODI Longneck SLX
Among BMXers, the ODI Longneck is the classic grip par excellence. With their soft lamellae, they absorb impacts wonderfully in tough street use. Without a flange, however, the inexpensive grips can also be used for other purposes. For example, in combination with twist grips for suspension lockout or shifting. Simply shorten the longnecks to the desired length and you can avoid the limited selection of good, compatible grips. Eight colours to choose from - 12,95 Euro >> e.g. at Bicycle XXL available at a reduced price.
The ODI Longneck is as much a part of my youth as scraped knees in the skate park. The rubbers also cut a fine figure on a race bike and provide cushioning. better than any off-the-shelf product. The soft rubber wears out quickly, but the price is fair. - Jan Timmermann, BIKE test editor
Jan Timmermann
Editor
