FAVOURITES

I was chatting with a friend recently and as he is a big cycling fan the conversation turned to cycling equipment .(what a surprise) He asked me what were my three favourite items of cycling kit from 2009. I didn't hesitate-

On my Touring bike it has to be my BROOKS TEAM PRO SADDLE. In fact this was my overall favourite item in 2008 as well.

I used the saddle to ride the LEJOG in 2008 and I also used it in 2009 whilst riding the Atlantic Coast Challenge Ride.

It sustained some cosmetic damage in the crash that I had, but that was all sorted with some fine emery paper and black shoe polish. The deep scratches I managed to smooth out with the emery paper and the job was finished off with the black polish. Try doing that with a plastic and gel saddle.!!

The reason I rate it so highly is the total comfort and support it gives particularly on a multi day long distance endurance ride. Yes-I know that it seems a hard saddle- but over time it adopts the shape of your rear end. Put in the miles and it just gets better and better. I find that most gel style saddles just do not offer enough rear end support over the longer distances.

The next two items can be found on my Felt Sportive bike-

The FULCRUM RACING ZERO WHEELS (red spokes) shod with VITTORIA OPEN CORSA EVO CX TYRES. (see picture)

The wheels -as well as looking fantastic -are amazingly stiff delivering maximum power to the road. For hill climbing they are great- they don't flatten the hill but they do seem to make the effort easier and accelerating with them can be a totally exhilarating experience.

The tyres- are a perfect match for the wheels. They are good for both wet and dry conditions offering super grip capabilities and they also give a very supple and comfortable ride.

I really can't wait to get out on my bikes and start using these 'favourites' again....!