The cycling season is in full swing, with new technology and gear emerging rapidly after events like Sea Otter. This installment of Gear Break features a world-class multisport watch from iGPSPORT, exciting collaboration news between COROS and Wahoo, two premium wheelsets from Zipp and Ursus, a versatile wind system from Q36.5, and the meticulously crafted Colnago C72.
iGPSPORT VeRun Sports Watch
iGPSPORT introduces the VeRun, a multisport watch designed for everyday users that boasts World Tour-level technology, as evidenced by its service to the Groupama-FDJ Cycling Team. While primarily a running watch with advanced six-dimension running form analysis and scientific performance evaluation, it offers substantial functionality for cyclists, especially when integrated with iGPSPORT bike computers. Key features include a vibrant 1.32-inch AMOLED display, 1500 nits peak brightness, multi-band multi-GNSS support, and an impressive battery life of up to 14 days in daily use or 23-34 hours in multi-GNSS modes. The watch is water-resistant up to 5 ATM and includes sensors for barometer, accelerometer, ambient light, geomagnetic, and gyroscope. Setup is straightforward via the iGPSPORT app, and the VeRun can be configured to display essential cycling metrics like heart rate and power data, serving as a convenient wrist-based alternative or backup to a bike computer.
Zipp 202 NSW
Zipp presents the 202 NSW, their lightest wheelset to date, engineered for climbing performance. Weighing under 1100 grams, these wheels are designed to offer weightless speed on ascents, aerodynamic advantages on descents, and confident handling. The Tubeless Straight Side (TSS) wheelset features a 35mm rim depth and a 23mm internal rim width, accommodating wider tires for reduced rolling resistance and improved comfort. They are laced with lightweight Alpina Hyperlite spokes to the German-engineered ZR1 SL hubset, which utilizes GRW ceramic bearings and offers 66 points of engagement for efficient power transfer. The Zipp 202 NSW is an excellent upgrade for any lightweight road bike, promising speed and responsiveness across varied terrain.
Q36.5 Wind System
Q36.5 has updated its Wind System with a refined collection of vests and shell jackets designed for maximum versatility and adaptability to changing riding conditions. The system comprises four distinct categories: Air, Light Rain, Rain, and Hybrid. Each offers varying levels of protection while maintaining breathability and extreme packability. The Air category provides minimal bulk for wind and light rain protection, while Light Rain is suited for intermittent showers. The Rain option offers full waterproof protection, and the Hybrid features a highly breathable woven fabric for warmth and moisture management. This approach allows riders to select the precise level of protection needed, rather than relying on a single, all-encompassing jacket, ensuring optimal comfort and efficiency across diverse weather scenarios.
Colnago C72
The Colnago C72 embodies the concept of “Perfectly Composed,” representing a new synthesis of performance, craftsmanship, and design. Hand-built in Italy, this top-tier road bicycle utilizes a multi-piece lugged construction, allowing for precise tuning of stiffness, compliance, and force distribution, a departure from the dominant monocoque frames. The C72 emphasizes a harmonious riding experience, offering high-speed stability with confidence-inspiring handling, immediate power transfer through its high-modulus carbon structure, and modern versatility with increased tire clearance and compliance for varied surfaces. Production is limited to 3,000 frames annually, highlighting its exclusive nature. The design integrates innovation, featuring the CC.02 cockpit and an integrated seatpost with a hidden storage compartment. The C72 aims to deliver a unique riding feeling characterized by responsive acceleration, predictable stability, and exceptional vibration damping.
Ursus Arya G
Ursus introduces the Arya G, an evolution of their Arya family of wheels, designed to offer superior responsiveness, handling precision, and power transfer across diverse surfaces. This wheelset redefines performance with its ability to adapt to different terrains without compromising identity. The Arya G is built around the innovative Sapim RC-1 PBO spoke, integrated into Ursus’s new OmniTune System™ (OTS). This system, which includes the U-RG60 hub and Y-stars™ lacing pattern, enhances terrain adaptability, mechanical efficiency, and ride comfort through effective vibration damping. Lab data indicates a significant reduction in vibrations compared to previous models. The Arya G features a 50mm profile, 25mm internal width tubeless-ready rim, and weighs 1,340g ±40g. Its performance was notably demonstrated at the Paris-Roubaix, where riders praised its stability, reactivity, and comfort on the cobbles.
COROS and Wahoo Partnership
Endurance technology leaders COROS and Wahoo Fitness have announced a significant partnership aimed at providing athletes with greater flexibility and a more connected training experience. Through a new two-way API integration, activity data recorded on COROS and Wahoo devices can now seamlessly upload to both the COROS training platform and the Wahoo app. This collaboration also sees COROS watches integrating with the Wahoo KICKR RUN treadmill, allowing for accurate indoor run data to be transmitted directly via Bluetooth without additional sensors. Further enhancing this partnership, COROS APEX 4 and PACE 4 watches will be available on WahooFitness.com, and custom Wahoo digital watch faces and bands will be featured on COROS watches. This integration promises a more unified and comprehensive view of athlete performance across both indoor and outdoor activities.