A look at some of the cold-weather gear we have on test

Originally posted on February 11, 2016 at 15:16 pm

I had lots of plans to ride fat bikes this winter. But January seemed to have more days in the 50s than the 30s, and I missed the only real snow storm due to a trip to Chile to ride the new Santa Cruz Hightower. Winter is paying us back with some cold weather, and that should give us a chance to get out on some of this cold-weather stuff that has been staying warm inside.

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Stan’s NoTubes Race Sealant

First up, a not-specifically-cold weather product, Stan’s new Race Sealant.

  • Twice the sealing crystals = faster, stronger seals to get you across the line first
  • Additional larger crystals = seals larger punctures to keep you rolling
  • Premium low-viscosity latex = reacts fast and works in the widest range of temperatures and conditions
  • Natural materials = safe for the environment

It is also good until -30 degrees, which is pretty important for fat bikers.

This is the first product developed in Stan’s Racing Development (SRD) group, a newly-developed collection of employees dedicated to developing race-oriented products. This new sealant should be checked every two weeks, versus 4-5 for the standard juice. Pricing is forthcoming.

More info: notubes.com

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Bar Mitts Extreme Cold Pogies – $125

With below zero wind chills threatening in a few days, I should be able to put these to the test. Lot’s of room inside to keep snacks from freezing and various glove thicknesses. They install via handlebar end-plugs, which seems pretty simple compared to the internal Velcro loops of standard Bar Mitts pogies.

  • Waterproof, 6 mm thick neoprene with Fleece on the inside and nylon lamination on the outside
  • Removable Velcro cuff for easy access & removal of hands with no draw string complications
  • Expandable bar end plug, which keeps the mitts stiff and in place
  • Zipper can be opened for ventilation and temperature regulation
  • Easily installed and removed
  • Reflective material on seam & logo

More info: barmitts.com

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SKS FatBoard fenders $55

Fat bikes need fenders, too. SKS has these easy on-and-off set that should provide coverage all the way up to a 5 inch tire.

More info: sks.com

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Orange Seal Subzero Tubeless Sealant $14.50-$22

We’ve had great luck with Orange Seal’s standard sealant, and look forward to trying this new Subzero stuff. Should be fun to have a face-off versus the new Stan’s Race sealant.

More info: orangesealed.com

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Bontrager Gnarwhal studded fat bike tire – $225 (each)

I paid almost the exact same amount of money for a set of steel wheels and winter tires for my car. That was used, and off craigslist, but still. Front and rear is going to set you back $450. But for riding the packed-down, icy and bumpy trails these might turn what would be a completely frustrating ride into a good time. And good times often have a price tag.

More info: trekbikes.com


Stay tuned for full reviews of all these things in the future. In the meantime, go enjoy the weather, whatever it is doing in your locale.

 



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