I’m constantly searching for innovative products that can enhance the riding experience. Recently, I’ve discovered several items through different channels, such as the Sea Otter Classic, recommendations from other cyclists, and my dedicated research. Each product was provided for review by the respective companies and is available online. It’s important to note that none of these companies are advertisers on Road Bike Rider.
The list included:
- HydraPak Hydration Reservoir – Velocity IT IsoBound Insulated
- TriEye View Sport Sunglasses with built-in mirror
- Hiplok Z LOK Combo
- Thousand Jr. Toddler helmet
- KOM Cycling Seatpost Garmin Radar Mount
- Caterpy No-Tie Laces and Hair Ties
- Dermatone Sunscreen and Body Protection Cream
- KT Health Ice Sleeve
- FIDLOCK HERMETIC Dry Bag Medi
If you’ve tried one or more of these products, share your experiences in the comments section below. Or if you have additional questions, let’s hear them.
HydraPak Hydration Reservoir – Velocity IT IsoBound Insulated
https://hydrapak.com/products/velocity%25E2%2584%25A2-it-1-5l?variant=44292212621545
Price: $44
Capacity: 1.5 L or 2 L
Weight: 169 g / 6 oz.
Dealing with warm water can be a nuisance when you’re out for a summer bike ride or hike. The HydraPak Velocity IT IsoBound insulated hydration reservoir offers a great fix with its IsoBound insulation technology, ensuring your drinks stay cooler for longer. Plus, the Hydrafusion insulated drink tube means your first sip will be refreshingly cool.
I appreciate the reservoir’s wide opening, making filling and tossing some ice cubes easy. The slide-seal top locks tightly, preventing leaks, while the handy Plug-N-Play connect system lets you quickly detach the drink tube. This allows for fast refills when removing the reservoir since you don’t need to fuss with the drinking tube.
The slide-seal top locks tightly, preventing leaks.
Note that this is only the reservoir and will work with virtually any 1.5 or 2.0-liter pack. There’s a universal hanger designed to work with various vests and packs. I tested the reservoir with Nathan, Osprey, and CamelBak packs, and the loop on the CamelBak was too small to work with the hanger. It didn’t cause a problem because the reservoir was rigid enough that securing in the pack wasn’t necessary.
HydraPak uses a Comet bite valve that self-seals after each sip. When not in use, a lock is easily engaged with one hand while riding. My test ride was 35 miles in 92-degree heat. The total time in the heat was just under three hours (I stopped a lot to take pictures), and the water was still cool at the end of the ride.
TriEye View Sport Sunglasses with built-in mirror
(Sheri who uses a rearview mirror)
(Kim who’s never worn a mirror)
Price: $89 – $149
Lens: Photochromatic, yellow, clear, smoke high contrast, smoke
Frame sizes: Small, Medium
Frame colors: Lime, White, Black (View Sport Standard only available in black)
Prescription: Yes, with an optional prescription insert replacing the standard nosepad
To stay aware of my surroundings and feel safer on the road, I ride with a rear radar on the seat tube and rearview mirror attached to the arm of my sunglasses. Several local club riders recently started using TriEye sunglasses with a built-in rearview mirror. Not having worn a mirror before, they had very positive comments about the TriEyes.
I contacted this family-owned and operated company to secure a pair. Carsten Fongen, CEO and Founder of TriEye sent two samples, a photochromatic version in small size and the standard in a medium. Carsten developed these unique sunglasses after being hit by a car from behind while out on his bike.
I tested the small size since it fits my narrow face best. The fit was extremely comfortable, and the nose pad kept the sunglasses secure without slipping or shifting. I watched the “Getting Started” video to learn how to position and use the mirror. It took a few rides to adjust to the mirror properly and remember to tilt my head to see behind me. If I compared using a rearview mirror on the TriEye versus an external mirror attached to the temple of standard sunglasses, I felt I had to take my eyes off the road longer with the TriEye. It isn’t an issue when riding alone or in a social group. But when in a paceline, I felt uncomfortable with the time it took to tilt my head and look back. Possibly, over time, it will improve.
Watch the video on adjusting and using the mirror before your first ride.
I wish there were some type of “lock” on the mirror because every time I cleaned my sunglasses or accidentally bumped the mirror, I had to realign it. If adding a lock isn’t feasible, then make the mirror harder to swivel.
The photochromatic lens was excellent, adapting well to changes in lighting from overcast to sunny conditions. However, I think the lens did not get dark enough in full sun. As someone who wears contacts, I appreciated the large shield’s effective protection against wind and debris.
My friend Kim, who has never used a rearview mirror, tested the medium sunglasses with a blue lens. She said the fit was extremely comfortable, with the flexible nose piece adding to the custom fit: excellent lens visibility and clarity in all lighting conditions, from full sun to overcast.
After watching the video, it took her several rides to adjust the mirror accurately, and she found the view in the mirror was narrow since it was sitting close to her eye. Kim wears Cat-Ears on her helmet straps to reduce wind noise which initially interfered with her view in the irror. She removed the left Cat-Ear for a few rides, but then, with further adjustments, she got the TriEye glasses to work with Cat-Ears. She also mentioned having to tilt her head significantly to see behind her, but she has since adapted and now exclusively uses the TriEye glasses for cycling.
Both Kim and I would appreciate a broader selection of frame colors. Given that TriEye is a smaller company, we’re optimistic about their potential to expand their range. In July, they even introduced a special yellow frame for a Tour de France promotion.
Note that if you are from the UK or a country that drives on the left, the TriEye is available with a mirror on the right side.
Hiplok Z LOK Combo
https://hiplok.com/product/z-lok-twin-pack/
Price: $24.99
Locking length: 43 cm
Weight: 0,068 kg
Lock type: 3-digit resettable combination
Colors: Black, Pink, Yellow, Teal, Urban Green
I’ve had a bike stolen, so I’m paranoid about leaving it unattended for a midride café or bathroom stop. Then, the Hiplok rep handed me a Z LOK Combo at Sea Otter Classic. It quickly became a must-have on every solo ride. I love it.
This small, lightweight lock easily fits in a jersey pocket, wrapped around the handlebar, or stuffed into a frame bag. The lock is a deterrent for someone looking to grab and go. It is not a high-level security lock ― use one of Hiplok’s higher security-rated locks for that.
Z LOK uses a three-digit combination code to unlock the mechanism, and it’s resettable. The zip tie lock design is available in five colorways to match any bike. There are endless uses for the Z LOK, including securing a helmet, bike or ski rack, luggage, or accessories. For a longer option, just daisy chain a few together.
At only $24.99, the Z LOK is something you’ll want to take on every ride.
Thousand Jr. Toddler helmet
https://explorethousand.com/products/toddler-helmet
Price: $44
Colors: Bravo blue, Plush pink, Power purple, Green dream, Hello yellow, Speedway cream
Weight: 219 g
Size: 45 – 49 cm
Certifications: Biking, roller skating, and skateboarding
Kids must start wearing helmets when riding in a trailer or a tricycle. However, locating a quality, lightweight helmet that properly fits a toddler can be difficult. Having volunteered at local bike rodeos, I often see helmets that don’t fit well, which is concerning.
Kids can decorate their helmets with stickers included in the box.
Thousand recently introduced their Jr. Toddler helmet, featuring a rear adjustment dial for a snug fit, adjustable side straps, a lightweight design, and six vents to promote airflow. It includes a modestly sized brim, which could benefit from being longer to provide more sun protection for toddlers. The helmet comes with a set of playful stickers for customization, although they started to peel off within a week of application.
My nephew and I tried everything to get his little girl to “model” the helmet. But being a typical little girl who LOVES pink, she wouldn’t have anything to do with the blue helmet. We snapped this quick picture before she insisted on removing it and putting on her sparkly pink helmet. That will teach Aunt Sheri not to specify the helmet color (insert eye roll here).
KOM Cycling Seatpost Garmin Radar Mount
https://komcycling.com/products/garmin-varia-mount?_pos=1&_sid=e756c7c6b&_ss=r
Price: $39.99
Compatibility: Garmin Varia RTL510, Garmin Varia RTL515, or any other rear-facing device utilizing the Garmin quarter-turn system.
Seatpost diameters and geometries: 27.2mm, 30.9mm, 31.6mm, D cross-section, or aero cross-section
If you ride with a Garmin Varia RTL510 or 515 rear radar and hate dealing with the standard O-rings, try KOM Cycling’s new mount. It is quick to install, fits a variety of seatpost diameters and shapes, and is easy to move from one bike to another. Best of all, it’s secure, so there are no worries about losing your expensive radar when you hit that first big bump.
KOM uses an ATOP lace dial system that is quickly and easily installed securely on any bike, eliminating the need to purchase Varia mounts for every one of your bikes. The ATOP lacing system and rubber adapter pad provide a soft interface that won’t scratch or wear your carbon or aluminum seatpost. Since acquiring a sample at Sea Otter in April, I have used this mount on my 2019 Trek Domane. Before this, I used the KOM Cycling bag with a built-in radar mount, as the seatpost diameter was too large for the O-rings provided by Garmin. (See the bag review here)
Caterpy No-Tie Laces and Hair Ties
Price: $14.95 (laces); $7.50 (3-pack set of hair ties)
Colors: Solids and patterns. Too numerous to list!!!
Caterpy uses its patented bump technology, to create No-Tie Laces and No Crease hair ties. The laces are great for sneakers, lace-up cycling road shoes, or MTB shoes. Just choose the lacing pattern, set it to the desired tension at different points along the foot, slip them on, and away you go. There were no worries about laces coming untied or too tight, causing numbness and pain. Set it and forget it.
I used them on a pair of sneakers (pictured above) and walked four miles. I experienced comfortable feet. The No-Tie laces come in over 30 colors (solid or pattern) and three lengths (20, 30, or 40 inches).
Once you’ve laced your shoes, there are various ways to leave the ends – leave them as is, cut them, or tuck them. It’s all up to you.
The No Crease hair ties use the same bump technology as the laces. I’ve never had long hair, so I solicited my friend Tanya to test them. She has long, thick hair and immediately commented that it stayed in place. Once removed, the No Crease ties didn’t leave a crease like rubber bands or other hair ties. The packet of three hair ties caught Tanya’s daughter’s eye, and she quickly claimed one for herself.
The hair ties come in a three-pack for $7.50 and, like the laces are available in various colors and patterns. They even make for cute bracelets.
Dermatone Sunscreen and Body Protection Cream
Price: Varies from product to product
I was unfamiliar with the brand before discovering Dermatone through a friend who swears by their products for all-weather cycling and sports. He cycles in extreme conditions, ranging from -20 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, and has always provided reliable recommendations. Intrigued, I contacted Dermatone in February to request some samples, and they generously sent various items, from lip balms and sunscreens to anti-chafe creams.
What I appreciate about Dermatone’s products is their travel-friendly sizes. They’re perfect for slipping into a jersey pocket or bike bag, making them ideal for bikepacking, where space and weight are at a premium. A few of the items they sent included:
- SPF 30 lip balm
- Lips & Face Stick
- Mineral No-Touch Sunscreen Stick
- Z-Cote Skin Protection tin
- Anti-Chafe Body Stick
Dermatone offers both traditional and mineral sunscreen options. Traditional sunscreens, or chemical sunscreens, use active chemical ingredients that absorb UV rays, convert them into heat, and release them from the skin. These formulas are typically lighter, absorb quickly, and leave less residue, making them suitable for active use. On the other hand, mineral sunscreens contain active mineral ingredients like zinc oxide that reflect UV rays, acting as a protective shield. These are thicker, more suitable for sensitive skin, and natural and reef-safe.
All Dermatone sunscreens provide broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection and are free from oxybenzone, a substance harmful to coral reefs and potentially allergenic to humans. Additionally, their products boast a range of skin-friendly benefits: they’re moisturizing, cruelty-free, reef-safe, paraben-free, fragrance-free, non-greasy, natural, long-lasting, and made in the USA.
Having tested these products through both winter and summer, I’ve been thoroughly impressed. The sunscreen sticks are handy for application without the mess of lotions, crucial for winter protection against wind, cold, and sun. The SPF 30 green tea lip balm was a revelation, though I sadly lost it to a laundry mishap. It’s definitely on my repurchase list.
Overall, I’ve given Dermatone a well-deserved 5-star rating. It’s a brand I was once unfamiliar with, but one that I will undoubtedly remember and recommend.
KT Health Ice Sleeve
https://www.kttape.com/products/kt-recovery-ice-sleeve?variant=40868674273324
Price: $39.99
Sizes: Small/Medium – fits most elbows; Large/XL – fits most knees
Muscle and joint soreness is a common issue among cyclists. Traditional ice packs can be cumbersome, often slipping and only cooling a limited area. KT Health, the creators of KT Tape, have developed a better mousetrap.
The Ice Sleeve is impressive. Out of the freezer, the gel is pliable never hard. A microfiber covering is silky smooth, which helps you slide the sleeve on your arm or leg. Because it is a sleeve, the ice pack provides 360-degree cooling to the affected area. No more juggling trying to balance a traditional ice pack on your knee.
With different sizes, use one for knees and calves and the smaller one for elbows, wrists, and feet. The packs stay cold for about 20-30 minutes, and the insulated travel pouch keeps the sleeve cold for up to 90 minutes. I keep my sleeve in the freezer so it’s ready whenever I need to ice my cranky knee.
FIDLOCK HERMETIC Dry Bag Medi
Price: $34.99
Colors: Orange, Blue, Petrol, Transparent, Black
Closure: Magnetic self-sealing
Waterproof: Yes
Floats: Yes
The Midwest has been getting a lot of rain. Sometimes, storms pop up out of nowhere. I protect my smartphone, key fob, and other valuables in Fidlock’s Hermetic dry bag medi. It easily fits my iPhone 14, and I slip it into my rear jersey pocket without worrying about getting wet or dusty. The bag is touch-screen-ready if I need to answer a call, text, or shoot a quick pic.
The closure uses a small waterproof magnetic self-seal to access whatever you’ve stored easily. This bag is excellent for biking, hiking, paddling, or other outdoor sports. Don’t worry if you drop it while MTBing through a creek. The bag floats! A lanyard’s also included with the Hermetic, so you can wear the case around your neck or secure it to a hydration pack loop.
At $34.99, keeping an expensive cell phone safe and dry is a small price. Choose from five colors, and have some wet fun!
Sheri Rosenbaum regularly contributes articles and reviews products for RBR. She’s an avid recreational roadie who lives in the Chicago area and a major advocate for women’s cycling, serving on the board of directors and volunteering with the Dare2tri Paratriathlon Club. Click to read Sheri’s full bio or visit her web site sunflowersandpedals.com.
Nice roundup of new products Sheri, thank you!
JIm
Thanks Jim!
Yeah agreed, these are some really neat things! Thanks!
Ah, but a hair tie as bracelet is a sign of membership in the International Girls’ Action/Adventure Club! I rarely leave the house without one. These look like fun!