Autumn essentials put to the testAccessories for cycling in autumn

Armin Herb

 · 11.07.2023

Autumn essentials put to the test: accessories for cycling in autumnPhoto: MYBIKE
Out and about in the autumn forest

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When the temperatures drop into single figures and the light conditions deteriorate, we cyclists need specially adapted equipment - from photochromic sports glasses, a thermal drinking bottle and a thermal jersey to a warm under-helmet cap. MYBIKE presents essentials for cycling in autumn.

Cratoni cycling glasses C-Lite nxt Photochromic:
Lightweight and universal

The goggle tint adapts very quickly to the light conditions.Photo: HerstellerThe goggle tint adapts very quickly to the light conditions.

Autumn and winter not only bring different weather, but also different lighting conditions - especially strong changes from bright sun to shade. In these seasons, classic sports sunglasses are usually too dark for cycling in the long term. And who has different glasses with them on the bike? But without glasses is no solution either. After all, they protect the eyes against wind, dust and moisture. The alternative could be glasses with photochromatic lenses, such as the new Cratoni C-Lite nxt. This means that the lenses adapt their tint to the light conditions.

The glasses in the MYBIKE test

After several test rides in sun, fog and rain, in the forest, in the city and on the mountain, our tester's verdict was short and clear: "Very comfortable!" She based her judgement on the many positive details: the goggles weigh just 25 grams. They don't pinch the nose or ears, even after long journeys with a helmet. The field of vision is sufficiently large. The eyes remain well protected against the wind. Despite this, they don't tarnish much in the cold, damp temperatures that cycling in autumn brings.

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But the most convincing feature is the rapid adaptation to different light conditions. The tint changes so quickly that it is barely noticeable when driving.

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Photochromatic glasses at a glance

  • Price: 149,95 Euro
  • Plus: Lightweight, quick adaptation to changing light conditions
  • Minus: -
  • More info: https://cratoni.com

GORE Everyday Thermo ¼-Zip: The winter jersey with a difference

The winter jersey with two side zip pockets from Gore Wear...
Pictures: Manufacturer

Experienced winter cyclists will quickly notice something about this long-sleeved jersey: As usual, it has no pocket(s) on the back, neither open nor with a zip. If you like to ride with a rucksack, you won't miss anything, as the back pockets are often unusable in practice. But the back pocket is missing on the Everyday Thermo not at all. It has split, so to speak, and moved to the front on the left and right, as "belly or side pockets" with a zip. For many cyclists, this is definitely a much more practical solution for storing their mobile phone, house keys, handkerchiefs or other utensils, for example.

The thermal jersey is available in several coloursPhoto: HerstellerThe thermal jersey is available in several colours

The long-sleeved jersey made from partially recycled polyester and a little elastane can be worn next to the skin thanks to the roughened, soft inside with thermal fleece. But in the colder months, you are more likely to combine it with a functional vest or wear a weatherproof jacket over it: the Zwibel principle is flexible and keeps you warm. The stretchy material dries surprisingly quickly. There are also small reflective details on the chest and back to make you more visible when cycling in autumn. Another plus point that is not yet a matter of course: the front zip has a chafe-free backing. For those who like to run or hike with the jersey, there are thumb holes on the cuffs to prevent the fabric from slipping backwards during movement. The Gore Everyday Thermo is available in several colours for men and women.

Sigg Pulsar Therm Snow drinking bottle: For hot and cold drinks

The thermo drinking bottle keeps drinks warm or cold.Photo: HerstellerThe thermo drinking bottle keeps drinks warm or cold.

Many outdoor fans who hear the name Sigg immediately think of the classic among reusable drinking bottles - the Traveller and Wanderer bottle made of aluminium with a screw cap. It is even in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Modern Art in New York. But Sigg from Switzerland now also produces many other models - including double-walled, food-safe plastic without harmful substances. For example, the new Sigg Pulsar Therm Snow (0.65 litre capacity) for cyclists. We tried it out in cool, but also warm late-season weather and were very impressed. The bottle fits easily into the bottle holder on the bike frame. It sits comfortably in the hand thanks to the recessed grip in the upper part of the bottle. And at just over 120 grams, it is one of the lightest bottles on the market.

The thermo drinking bottle is easy to clean.Photo: HerstellerThe thermo drinking bottle is easy to clean.

In contrast to previous models, where the hard material of the mouthpiece made you fear for your lips and teeth, the current drinking opening is gentle and uncomplicated. And even when open, the drinking valve is leak-proof, meaning that liquid only comes out when you suck on it. However, winter cyclists should bear one thing in mind. The Sigg Pulsar Therm Snow is not a classic thermos flask. This means that warm liquid only stays warm for one to two hours, depending on the temperature. However, this should be sufficient for a not-too-long late autumn or winter ride.

The Sigg bottle in usePhoto: MYBIKEThe Sigg bottle in use

Bergans Cecilie Light Wool Beanie: Cosy on the head

The woollen hat can be used as a beanie or under-helmet hat.Photo: HerstellerThe woollen hat can be used as a beanie or under-helmet hat.

Is this a particularly lightweight woollen beanie or a merino under-helmet hat? Both! And it should also be noted. The Cecilie Light Wool Beanie - as the name suggests - is labelled as a women's model, but it also looks unisex and adorns men's heads just as well. The comfortable, one-size-fits-all hat made from 97% merino and 7% elastane - five colour combinations are available - weighs a mere 30 grams and fits into any small jacket or jersey pocket when scrunched up. It's a warming item to always have with you - whether you're cycling, hiking or doing any other outdoor activity! One caveat: this does not apply to freezing temperatures, but rather to warmer late autumn and winter days. And if you wear the hat under your bike helmet for long periods of time, you will notice that the seam of the hem pinches a little on the forehead.

The cap is not for freezing cold but ideal for cycling in autumn. Photo: ManufacturerThe cap is not for freezing cold but ideal for cycling in autumn. Photo: Manufacturer

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