Accessories - misc

Very straightforward idea this from Commuter Technologies, and nice with it. Don't fancy cycling in your shirt, but need one for work? Can't afford a big stack of new ones at the office for a fresh shirt every day, like those greedy bankers undoubtedly do? Then try a Shirt Shuttle. It's a protective travel case for your shirt, so it'll stay nicely folded in your bag. It's easy to use and does the job perfectly.

Joy beyond measure, Minoura have finally revised and improved their venerable Spacegrip.

One of the major hassles of bike touring is keeping those small electronic gadgets now so crucial to modern life charged and functioning. What's the point in a traverse of Wales by bike if you can't tweet about every minute detail to your followers, or keep your tunes ready to go? Flippancy aside, it's good to know you can keep your mobile phone charged and ready for any emergency situation, especially if you're likely to be in an area lacking in passers by.

Throughout the duration of a long Tour stage it is important to take on regular quantities of liquid. Exposure to just one of Gary Imlach's ultra-dry asides can reduce body moisture by 15%. Although not on the WADA list of banned substances, tea can improve viewing performance by up to 20% and a steady intake of stimulants can help keep the viewer awake when subjected to the relentless drone of Phil'n'Paul as they read from their battered copy of The Tour de France For Dummies.

The Exspider mobile phone pocket is a small black and red fabric bag with Velcro closure and stretch panels on the sides, designed to carry a range of mobile phones.

So why should a cyclist own a travel towel like this Sea to Summit Pocket one? Tourists who prefer campsites and hostels to B&Bs and hotels will want a towel, as will those commuters with access to a shower at work. Travel towels are much more portable.

The name of the MKS Aero Bell says it all. It’s a bell. It’s aero – or aero-ish. Bikes have to be sold with bells in the UK, although you’re free to remove them afterwards. Owners of road bikes often do so, more because they ‘look out of place’ than because of the minimal weight added or the micro-seconds lost to increased air resistance.

BreezeBlockers AeroBlades are handlebar-mounted shields to protect your hands from the chilling effect of the wind. Motorcyclists will be familiar with the concept, but they’ve seldom figured in the chilly weather plans of cyclists, especially road riders. Until now.

The ankle cuffs are made using soft supple leathers and reflective bead technology fabrics in a choice of several different colours and, sometimes, patterns. The result is a reflective cuff with more than a hint of rock chick attitude. These elevate the nerdy trouser clip and offer reflectivity, and therefore additional safety, coupled with a little bit of style. A winning combination as far as I’m concerned. They do reflect effectively as well, not just a token gesture.

Tubular purists look away now: we had good experiences of using Jantex tub tape. It was easy to fit, the tyres didn't fall off, and, erm, that's about it. There's plenty of people that'll tell you that it's not as strong as cement and they may well be right, but it was plenty strong enough during testing.