A look at some of the cold-weather gear we have on test
Originally posted on February 11, 2016 at 15:16 pmI 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.
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
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
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
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
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.