triathlete wall

The Plasma 3 Premium is Scott’s top of the line model and is a marriage of superbike technology with real world practicality. The frame is made from Scott’s proprietary carbon fiber HMX-Net, the same found in the Plasma 2 LTD, for lightweight and ultimate stiffness – it’s what the top pros ride. Deeper, oversized chainstays enhance drivetrain performance, steering and stability while the fully integrated frame, stem and seatclamp increases aerodynamics. Adjustable seat posts allows for the rider to find that comfort zone in riding. It’s easy to adjust, maintain and easy to pack into a travel case for races.

Wind tunnel tested at the San Diego Aero Space and Technology Center, the 2012 Bontrager Aeolus 5 D3 wheelset combines the all-around performance of their 50mm racing tubulars with the tire installation ease of a clincher. Featuring a deep profile of 50 millimeters with 27 millimeters at its widest point, Bontrager uses wider rim to improve the aerodynamics of the tire. The wider rounded rim keeps the air attached to the tire and rim shape longer, therefore producing less turbulence and drag with an end result being faster wheels on the road.

Specialized’s top of the line road shoe, the S-Works model, are for those wanting the very best. Their lightest and stiffest cycling shoe starts at $350, and it features a carbon sole using high modulus, unidirectional carbon fiber, BG+ high performance footbed to improve foot/knee alignment, Micromatrix water-resistant upper for comfort and a vented tongue for added breathability. Two independent dials optimizes closure, one in the ankle and heel and the other in the arch and forefoot. Cleat pattern fits Shimano, Look, Time and Speedplay.

Swiss bike maker BMC brings to us the time machine TM01, ‘the bike that makes you faster’. The aerodynamic frame shape has a length to width ration of 3:1 and uses Tripwire technology, where special wind curbs molded into the carbon frame form a sort of air cushion for the wind flow. A flatter profile with minimized raw materials helps reduce weight and increase stiffness. The adjustable integrated stem system allows for more than 30 different positions to ensure the best fit. Comes in 4 different sizes, small, medium short, medium long and large and is offered with Di2 and Zipp 808s as the top of the line package, but will also be available in much more affordable options with SRAM Red or Shimano Ultegra groups.

Whether you are new to tri or have taken a long break, Spinervals Competition 21 Aero Base Builder IV will help build and develop your aerobic base. This 70 minute DVD with Coach Troy Jacobson focuses on training your blue aerobic zone, which is ideal for long races by getting your body to adapt to using fats for as the primary fuel. There is an option to turn off the audio so you can jam to your own music if wanted. Compatible with all stationary bikes.

Look’s latest flagship road pedal, the KÉO Blade, has a flexible carbon fiber ‘blade’ instead of the traditional wound steel spring, making it lighter with more feel produced by the altered spring curve. It offers a much snappier engagement and release that’s noticeable from the first time you clip in. The titanium spindle rotates virtually drag-free on three silky-smooth cartridge bearings and longer threads afford a bit of stance width adjustment for those in need. Less than 95g for the TI axle model, or 115 for CrMo axle model, and comes in either a 12Nm or 16Nm spring. Innovation with the goal of safety, lightweight, comfort and reliability.

If you’re one who prefers to race out of T2 with your bike shoes already mounted, give Lake’s new TX312 triathlon cycling shoe a try. The shoe opens from the back, which makes putting your foot in easier once you’re already on the bike. Its eSole® Custom Foot beds are created from a 3D foot imaging technology and gives you the option to interchange the modular arch and metatarsal pads for preferred height and comfort. It has a lightweight and stiff carbon fiber sole and NuFOAM™ breathable & wicking shell with Trek-Dry antimicrobial liner for fast drying breathability.

Developed to help smaller riders, the 3T ARXA Pro Stem is a height-adjustable stem allowing for a wide range of height adjustment. With 33° of articulation to either side of the fulcrum, the 80mm or 100mm stem helps the rider get the bars down low or a more upright position. Laser-etched markings help accurately record the desired angle and the front section is hinged to the rear section via a DiffLock™ splined coupling. PRO is the entry-level model. ARXA TEAM is fabricated in a higher grade of alloy, and comes with titanium bolts. Weight for Team is 199g and Pro is 230g.

Say hello to ISM’s lastest product, the Prologue. If you are already familiar with their Podium and Breakaway models, then you won’t find too much change. The Prologue has added foam and gel padding for a more comfortable and soft ride. ISM kept the longer length and narrower hamstring section to allow for more forward and rearward body movement. Chaffing on the inner thigh is minimalized by the integrated sloped front arms.

Low drag, a wide field of vision, an integrated visor, and a fully adjustable fit are guaranteed in this coming-soon helmet by Scott. The Split was used by GreenEDGE WorldTour team on their way to team time trial victory on the opening stage of the 2012 Tirenno-Adriatico and hopefully will be available to the mass public early next year. Extensive wind tunnel testing was performed to optimize the helmet’s shape with regards to aerodynamics and rider comfort. Be on the look out for this one.