This week we noticed tiny GPS head units from Garmin, tubular tire tape from Effetto Mariposa, delicious treats from Kollar Chocolates, a very lite lock by LITELOK, and a trick gadget for riding a bike in a skirt, but that one still needs funding.
Garmin Edge 20 and 25
Garmin launched two new GPS bike computers labeled Edge 20 and Edge 25, units targeted towards athletes who believe that “less is enough.” Garmin calls them the smallest bike GPS bike computers, and they are indeed only 1.6” x 1.6” x 0.7” (4.0 x 4.2 x 1.7 cm), but I am not in a position to substantiate the “world's smallest" claim, nor can I refute it. But they are so small that the mount below it almost protrudes. Note that if you are looking for a tiny power meter compatible computer, you can move on, as neither the Edge 20 nor the Edge 25 will give you that capability. You will, however, get speed, distance, course navigation and records, and a few other features in package that weighs 25 grams, has an 8-hour battery life, IPX7 waterproofing, and is not going to cost you an arm and a leg. MSRP is $169.99 for the Edge 25 that features Bluetooth Smart and Ant+ technology, and $129.99 for the Edge 20 that requires a USB cable to connect to your computer.
MSRP: Edge 25 $169.99, Edge 20 $129.99
Effetto Mariposa Carogna tubular tape
Triathletes have jumped very hard on the carbon clincher bandwagon, but there are still plenty of riders who rely on tubular wheel technology. With that typically comes the dreaded gluing ceremony, but the Effetto Mariposa Carogna tape promises to save you the hassle. It is wider and thicker than other tape offerings on the market, and promises great adhesion and a simple, headache-free installation. Depending on your rim width you may have to trim it a bit, but it is offered in two widths. It is also advertised to withstand a vast temperature range, and 8 hours after installation it reaches 80% adhesive strength.
Sizes: S 21mm and smaller rims, M for rims over 21mm
MSRP: $19.95 per wheel
Kollar Chocolates
When I lust for chocolates, I usually have something European on my mind. I am biased along those lines, but I will concede that there are many gifted and creative chocolate artisans in other parts of the world. Naomi Pasztor and Chris Kollar have their Kollar Chocolates shop in Yountville, CA where you can visit and see how various delights are created in their kitchen. If you are ever in Napa Valley stop by, and I predict that you will not be able to leave the shop without some chocolates in hand - or belly. For those not planning a visit to the wine country in the near future, Kollar Chocolates has a fine selection online. See above for the link to their website.
MSRP: it depends, but it's worth it
LITELOK bike lock
LITELOK was recently successfully funded on Kickstarter, and looks distinctively different than others on the market. But if you require instant gratification, you will be disappointed as they are still in the pre-order process and not yet shipping. The brain behind the LITELOK is Neill Barron, an industrial design graduate from the Royal College of Art, London, who has done work for Boots, E.ON, Intel, Lego, The Body Shop and Unilever. As a commuter in London Barron became frustrated with stolen bikes and loathed the heavy bike locks required to prevent bike theft. Two years ago he started on the LITELOK concept and now prepares to debut a light, flexible and strong lock that uses Boaflexicore technology.
Colors: various
MSRP: £80
Penny in Yo' Pants - decency gadget
People who like to ride bikes, or need to ride bikes, do not always wear Lycra when going for a ride, and most certainly not when they are running errands or commuting. People who wear pants when riding typically roll up the leg on the drive side, or stuff it into their sock to avoid getting Chain Schmutz on their pant leg. Wearing a skirt brings up a very different concern - and Penny in Yo' Pants has a simple solution for riders worried about showing their underwear to bystanders. The folks at Penny in Yo' Pants explain how it works in the video below, but they still need to raise the bulk of the £5,000 they are trying to collect on Indiegogo. On a side note, why the product is not called Penny in Yo' Skirt is beyond me.
MSRP: n/a
Check out the Penny in Yo' Pants video.
Penny In Yo' Pants from Penny in Yo' Pants on Vimeo.
