Gear Break: Pas Normal Studios Mechanism cool weather kit, Chapter 2 Bikes RIRA and MANA5, JOIN Cycling app launches JOIN Running: A Strategic Cross-Training Feature for Cyclists, special offer for a more sustainable future from SCICON, Pashley launches the all-new Pashley Roadfinder – The new timeless all-rounder and dress like a wolf with JBC clothing.
Pas Normal Studios Mechanism Cool Weather Kit
Mechanism is Pas Normal Studios race-fit collection merging performance and contemporary design. With carefully selected technical fabrics and our signature silhouette matching an aggressive position on the bike. Optimally suited to fast-paced training, intervals and racing. Unsurpassable performance for the days that matter the most.
The Mechanism cold Collection
Men’s Mechanism Deep Winter Bibs — Dark Stone
Alastair Hamilton PEZ sez: I’m ‘old school’ and if the temperature drops bellow 20ºC I need long tights or leg warmers. So when Pas Normal Studios sent me a pair of Mechanism Deep Winter bib shorts, I thought they had sent the summer gear. But as soon as you take them out of the bag you can see and feel that they are not for the warm weather.
A very different pair of shorts
The outer feels like it is wind and rain proof and when run under a tap, water does run off. The inside is soft and warm, just what you need when the mercury drops. As with all Pas Normal Studios bibs, the chamois is one of the best I’ve seen. It feels like there are four layers of padding, thinner where it is not needed and more at the sit bones and the central pressure points. I gave them a first test on the Wahoo trainer for half an hour, very nice. The gripper strip is broad and has a chris-cross pattern of silicone which holds the everything in place, without squashing.
A very good chamois
The bib is made of elastic straps at the front and a mesh at the back, with a small section of mesh at the front. The straps are wide and comfortable and mesh on the back is comfortable. I only have one criticism, the shorts come up very high, this does keep you nice and warm, but it does make a ‘call of nature’ quite difficult, but then in cold weather you might not want to ‘go’ as much.
Comfortable, yet snug gripper
What do they feel like out on a ride? I’m not at ‘full form’ at the moment, so a short ride was all I could manage. We had a cold spell last week and temperature was a low (for here) 9ºC with a cold wind that brought it down a good few more degrees. The knees felt a little chill, but once I got going, I didn’t notice. As I said the chamois is very comfortable and the fit was good, no complaints.
What Pas Normal Studios sez: A technical winter bib for fast-paced training and racing. The Mechanism Deep Winter Bib combines light and advanced membrane fabrics for protection from wind and water and adds a brushed fleece backing with a grid structure for extra insulation and warmth. Pair the bibs with leg warmers in training or use them for early-season racing.
The Mechanism Deep Winter Bibs feature soft elastic straps and a mesh back panel, creating the best possible conditions for your base layer and outer layers to work with you. For autumn/winter 2023 we have updated the fabric, using the more stretchable Windtex Pro Membrane to create the protective features.
Wind and water protection
To protect you from rain, wind and road spray, the Deep Winter Bibs uses a combination of fully dyed 3-layer and 2-layer fabrics with added DWR treatment.
Chamois
The four-layer chamois pad has been specifically designed to ensure lasting performance and comfort. The quick-drying, antimicrobial membranes ensure you stay cool and fresh at your critical contact point with the bike to reduce friction and prevent the build-up of humidity.
Elastic Grippers
All grippers have been fitted with soft, fully-dyed elastics that deliver the truest colour. The elastics also feature our signature silicone gripping pattern, keeping the bibs in an optimal position to improve your aerodynamic silhouette.
Maybe it’s the hairy legs that kept me warm?
Men’s Mechanism Long Sleeve Jersey — Dark Moss
Plain but classy
Alastair Hamilton PEZ sez: The jersey is a similar colour as the shorts, but not quite the same and the material is different, so there is a contrast between the clothing. The Mechanism jersey is lightweight, but it is so dense and has a fleecy interior, so it keeps you nice and warm. There are little zip pockets top and bottom of the YKK zip to keep it all looking neat. The collar and cuffs are well finished, no badly cut bits of material on the inside.
A subtle look
The front is just the right length and I didn’t get any ‘ride-up’. There is a discrete Pas Normal Studios logo on the left side of the chest, not too big, subtle. The back, the logo is larger, but looks good. The pockets are a work of art. The same material as the rest of the jersey is used for the outside of the pockets, but the inside is made from a fleecier material, bellow that there is a mesh section and a broad elastic strip (with ‘Road to Nowhere’ printed on the inside) to hold everything tight. there is a very handy zip pocket for important items. I do wonder why they don’t stitch along the bottom of the zipped pocket to make another inside pocket?
Looks great and very well made
The Mechanism jersey has a subtle look in the style of the moment. It fits (me) well and is comfortable, the workmanship on the finish is 100%, no corners cut with strong stitching and some non-stitched joints. As I said before, the pocket area is a work of art. This is an all year round long sleeve jersey, you would need to wear more underneath in really cold days, but most spring/autumn days an undervest would be enough.
All jerseys should have one of these little zip pockets
What Pas Normal Studios sez: The Mechansim Long Sleeve Jersey is suitable for layering or as a standalone jersey. All through the seasons. The Mechanism Long Sleeve Jersey exhibits the Pas Normal Studios mentality of seamlessly combining visual aesthetics with quality, technical apparel. The soft fleece-backed fabric makes the Mechanism Long Sleeve Jersey perfect for both high-intensity training and racing. Use it as a standalone outer layer on chill mornings or late afternoons. Or pair it with a heavier base layer and a gilet or jacket when the temperature drops.
Product details:
- Soft fleece lining
- Facilitates moisture dispersion
- Pas Normal Studios logo on chest and back
- Fully-dyed fabric
- Mesh lining beneath back pockets
- Bacteriostatic and hydrophilic garment
- YKK zipper with guarded zip ends
- Material: 86% Polyester, 14% Elastane
- Made in Italy.
Product Features:
Fabric
Brushed with a soft, fleece lining, the jersey features antimicrobial and hydrophilic properties, keeping you dry and feeling fresh the harder you push.
YKK Zipper
The jersey features a Japanese YKK zipper with a semi auto-lock puller. Guarded zip ends are included to prevent skin irritation and protect your bib shorts as you ride.
Pockets
The back pockets are made from the same soft fleece fabric and will not overstretch when your pockets are full. An elastic hem keeps your belongings safely secured, while a concealed zippered side pocket has also been included and fitted with a protected insert.
Classy look – The kit, not so much the rider
Men’s Thermal Hooded Windproof Base Layer — Dark Stone
Just for a cold face
Alastair Hamilton PEZ sez: The Thermal Hooded Windproof base layer is another really handy piece of kit. The light fleece material by Polartec is very warm without being bulky and the wind-proofing on the front area is a bonus. Then for those really cold days the hood will keep your ears and head toasty along with the built in chin buff.
Polartec for warmth and a wind-proof pannel
Both the hood and scarf, when not in use, don’t get in the way or cause any sort of obstruction. There is also no problem about wearing a helmet as there are slits for the strap to go through.
Maybe best not go into a bank, but nice and warm
There is the small Pas Normal Studios logo and Road to Nowhere’ down the back. the ‘build quality’ is again top class. Many of the seems are quadruple stitched. The Polartec material is so soft and comfortable, I’ve been wearing the base layer round the house. For a cold day a base layer is a must and this one has to be the best one. It nearly makes me want more cold weather….
Pity no one sees the base layer under your jersey
What Pas Normal Studios sez: Our warmest and most protective base layer. Suited for deep winter rides, the Thermal Windproof Base Layer integrates a hood and a windproof front panel for extra protection. The Polartec® Power Wool
main fabric with wool grid backing is highly breathable while still providing superior insulation.
Hood, face scarf and wind-proof
Product details:
- Tight fitting hood with elastic for optimal hold
- Openings for helmet straps integrated into the hood
- Covers mouth and nose if needed
- Polartec® Power Wool
main fabric with wool grid backing - Superior wicking action, fast drying, highly breathable and naturally odour resistant
- Windproof front panel with a waterproof coating
- 54% Polyester, 38% Wool, 8% Spandex
- Made in Lithuania.
The hood is out of the way when not in use
Mechanism Thermal Socks — Dark Stone
Alastair Hamilton PEZ sez: Nothing worse than cold feet, but with the Merino wool mix Mechanism thermal sock, that shouldn’t be a problem. Double thickness at the toe and heel and with enough elasticity that the sock will stay up, these fit well and stay that way. Comfortable and warm – what more do you want?
Warm feet
What Pas Normal Studios sez: A simple, understated thermal sock. The Mechanism Thermal Socks is made with Merino Wool for added insulation in the colder months. Merino keeps its insulating properties even when wet, and the long cut adds extra warmth and temperature control. This sock features subtle Pas Normal Studios and Mechanism branded logos. Double knit heels and toes ensure extra durability.
Product details:
- Double knit heels and toes
- Long cut for extra warmth
- High wicking performance
- Unisex
- PNS and Mechanism branding
- Composition: 67% Merino Wool, 28% Polyamide, 3% Polypropylene, 2% Elastane
- Available seasonal colour options
- 36-39 (S)
- 40-43 (M)
- 44-47 (L)
- More details at: pasnormalstudios.com.
Chapter 2 Bikes RIRA and MANA5
As we say goodbye to 2024, Chapter 2 Bikes is excited to introduce the RIRA, a brand-new All-Road Racing chassis designed to elevate your riding experience. More than just a collection of performance stats and data, the RIRA delivers a ride that connects with the senses—it’s about the beauty of the journey, the challenge of the climb, and the thrill of the descent.
In an industry filled with claims of the “fastest bike” or “X watts saved,” the RIRA takes a different approach. While Chapter 2’s engineers meticulously optimized the bike’s weight, stiffness, and aerodynamics, the RIRA is designed to inspire your passion for riding. It’s a bike that not only performs at the highest level but also speaks to your soul.
Key Features:
- 950g Performance-Tuned Toray Carbon Frameset
Lightweight and stiff, the RIRA is crafted with the highest quality Toray T1100 carbon, making it ideal for competitive riding. Available in five sizes. - Increased Stiffness
The RIRA boasts a 22% stiffer headtube and 12% increased bottom bracket stiffness over its predecessor, the TOA, ensuring unmatched power transfer and responsiveness. - Aerodynamic Enhancements
Featuring an optimized headtube and flat-back seattube, the RIRA maximizes torsional stiffness while minimizing drag for faster, more efficient rides. - Precision Geometry
The RIRA’s linear bottom bracket drop and optimized stack and reach ensure precise scaling and fitting for a wide range of riders, making it versatile across different terrains. - Fully Integrated Cable Routing and SRAM UDH Compatibility
With clean, Fully Integrated Cabling and compatibility with SRAM’s Universal Derailleur Hanger, the RIRA offers aesthetic and functional benefits for electronic groupsets. - Industry Standard 27.2mm Seatpost
For flexibility in dialling in the perfect bike fit, the RIRA uses a standard 27.2mm diameter seatpost, with the option to upgrade to the Chapter 2 TUMU seatpost, weighing in at 219g. - Generous Tire Clearance
The RIRA supports up to 34mm tyres in the front and 32mm in the rear, offering ample room for wider, high-volume tyres to improve ride comfort without sacrificing speed.
Back to Basics, Built for Performance
The RIRA is a return to the fundamentals of racing—balancing agility, power, and handling to create an exhilarating ride that sharpens your senses. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or just riding for the pure joy of it, the RIRA’s sleek design and razor-sharp performance will make it the talk of any group ride.
With a T47 85.5 bottom bracket standard, the RIRA delivers outstanding stiffness and compatibility with various industry-available cranksets. By sticking to the industry-standard 27.2mm seatpost, riders can easily customize their bike fit while optimizing weight savings.
The RIRA frameset, equipped with a SRAM UDH hanger and Shimano Direct Mount Hangers, is designed exclusively for electronic groupsets. Accommodating tyres up to 34mm in the front and 32mm in the rear offers speed and comfort in any riding condition.
- For more information, visit our RIRA website page.
JOIN Cycling App Launches JOIN Running: A Strategic Cross-Training Feature for Cyclists
New feature encourages cyclists to diversify their training routine with purposeful running integration
JOIN, the leading cycling training platform, today announced the launch of JOIN Running, an innovative feature designed to help cyclists incorporate strategic running sessions into their training programs. This new addition reflects JOIN’s commitment to developing well-rounded athletes through evidence-based cross-training approaches.
JOIN Running seamlessly integrates running workouts into existing cycling training plans, offering cyclists a structured way to enhance their overall athletic performance. The feature is designed to complement rather than compete with cycling training, focusing on building complementary fitness attributes that benefit riders on the bike.
The new feature brings a comprehensive suite of tools to the JOIN platform, including smart integration of running sessions within cycling schedules, progressive training programs designed specifically for cyclists, and detailed performance tracking that unifies both cycling and running metrics. JOIN Running’s intelligent algorithm ensures that running activities enhance rather than detract from cycling performance, with careful attention to recovery and overall training load.
“We’ve always believed in the power of cross-training to create stronger, more resilient cyclists,” said Jim van den Berg, CEO of JOIN. “JOIN Running isn’t about turning cyclists into runners – it’s about strategic cross-training that enhances cycling performance. Whether it’s building bone density, improving muscular balance, or simply saving time on busy days, running can be a powerful tool in a cyclist’s training arsenal.”
JOIN has developed running protocols tailored to cyclists’ needs and goals. These protocols focus on complementary fitness development while maintaining cycling as the primary sport.
JOIN Running is available immediately to all JOIN users through the latest app update. The feature includes beginner-friendly introductions to running for cyclists and more advanced options for experienced cross-trainers.
- For more information about the JOIN Cycling app and its new running-focused features, visit join.cc/run.
Special Offer for a More Sustainable Future from SCICON
Pashley Launches the All-New Pashley Roadfinder – The New Timeless All-Rounder
Pashley Cycles proudly unveils their all-new Roadfinder Collection. A high-quality, performance focussed, exquisitely hand-crafted, super versatile bicycle that allows the rider to choose between road, off-road and any combination in-between – all from one frame platform. The Collection includes the Roadfinder, Roadfinder E, Roadfinder X and the Roadfinder X E models.
The Pashley Roadfinder Collection consists of frame designs for both conventional and electric models with road and gravel specific builds. Designed, developed, tested and handmade in their UK based factory in Stratford-upon-Avon the brand seamlessly blurs modern technologies, innovation and great British craftmanship with the introduction of 3D printed and laser cut elements at structurally integral junctures. Pashley’s ingenuity intelligently showcases a masterful and unique design that beautifully amplifies the luxurious ride feel that a high-quality hand-crafted steel frame can offer.
“The brief for the Roadfinder project was to develop a collection of extremely versatile bicycles that give cyclists the ability to conquer multiple terrains, journeys and adventures on one beautifully hand-crafted machine. From all-season endurance road rides, off-road gravel trails to bike-packing exploration, this is the ‘Swiss Army Knife of Bicycles’.
“The Roadfinder collection also perfectly showcases and builds on our heritage of artisan frame-building, appealing to all riders who appreciate true versatility, performance and the unique ride experience you only get from a high-end steel frame, built by hand using the very best materials”. Andy Smallwood, CEO, Pashley.
As the brand rides towards its 100-year centenary it is keen to herald its longstanding bike manufacturing and industry heritage, its master craftmanship and artisan legacy whilst spotlighting its dynamic evolutionary design and exciting future. Attention to detail is exemplary. Design details include a new Pashley signature frame signifier which honours frame makers traditions from the past where their unique identifiers with bespoke profiling instantly identified the maker. Pashley’s new 3D printed seat tube and top tube junction pays homage to this tradition. Other refined details include the proud Pashley ‘P’ on the rear dropout, wrap around metallic graphics and exquisite aluminium head badge. The result is stunning. A fully integrated lightweight frame platform with internal cable routing, sleek profiling, seamless welds and striking sophisticated design.
Versatility is also key. The new Roadfinder Collection boasts clearance for multiple tyre options up to 45c alongside mudguard fixing points, front, rear & frame luggage capacity, and multiple bottle mounts that allows the rider flexibility to create their ideal bicycle. Pashley offers 3 standard spec variations and 3 resplendent colourways per model – in Lake Blue, Rich Burgundy, Oak Green. With further options available for a classic finishing kit and colour matched mudguards.
The frames in more detail: The Roadfinder and Roadfinder X frame uses full Reynolds 853 tubing with full e-coating corrosion protection prior to painting. The frames utilise unique 3D printed seat tube/top tube junctions, UDH compatible dropouts with internal cable routing, removable front mech hanger and internal cable routing guides. The machined 44mm head-tube leads into the Columbus Futura Cross+ carbon fork with flip chip drop-out.
The Roadfinder E and Roadfinder X E frame uses a combination of Reynolds 725, 631 & 525 tubing with a full e-coating corrosion protection applied prior to painting. 3D printed elements include: the signature seat-tube/top tube junction, removable front mech hanger, internal cable routing guides and the Mahle activation controller housing and charge point. The frame also features a machine tapered head-tube allowing for a full carbon e-bike compliant Road/Gravel fork with tapered steerer with laser cut Mahle X20 compatible dropouts to complete the look.
“The design process for the new Roadfinder platform allowed us to look at combining a more endurance focussed geometry whilst maintaining a performance edge. We’ve introduced 3D printed elements to the frame to enhance the overall ride experience and to amplify the clean lines.” Jon Cumberpatch, Lead Designer, Pashley.
The Roadfinder models in more detail: The Pashley Roadfinder is a versatile Road focused bicycle aimed at everything from endurance road riding, group rides, commuting, touring, audax and more… Featuring Shimano mechanical and Di2 groupset options, Parcours Alta carbon wheels and Zipp/Brooks finishing kit. Standard specification complete bike weights from 9.5kg.
The Pashley Roadfinder E is the electric version of the Roadfinder with the high performance Mahle X20 electric drive system at its heart. Standard specification complete bike weights from 13.2kg.
The Pashley Roadfinder X is a Gravel and off-road capable bicycle with specifications aimed at everything from mixed terrain riding, general gravel, gravel racing, off-road adventures bike packing and beyond… Featuring Shimano, SRAM and Campagnolo Groupset options, Parcours Alta carbon wheels and Zipp/Brooks finishing kit alongside dropper post compatible with internal cable routing. Standard specification complete bike weights from 9.8kg.
The Pashley Roadfinder X E is the Electric version of the Roadfinder X with the high performance Mahle X20 electric drive system. Standard specification complete bike weights from 13.5kg.
All Pashley Roadfinders are meticulously wet painted to the highest standards with stencilled and painted graphics to give a luxurious finish.
The Pashley Roadfinder Collection starts at £2,795
Roadfinder 105 : £2,795 : USA $ 3,995 : EU € 3,695
Roadfinder 105 Di2 : £3,995 : USA $ 5,695 : EU € 5,295
Roadfinder Ultegra Di2 : £4,595 : USA $ 6,595 : EU € 5,995
Roadfinder E 105 : £3,995 : USA $ 5,795 : EU € 5,295
Roadfinder E 105 Di2 : £5,295 : USA $ 7,595 : EU € 6,995
Roadfinder E Ultegra Di2 : £5,995 : USA $ 8,595 : EU € 7,995
Roadfinder X Shimano GRX 610 : £2,795 : USA $ 3,995 : EU € 3,695
Roadfinder X Rival AXS : £4,295 : USA $ 6,195 : EU € 5,695
Roadfinder X Campagnolo Ekar: £4,595 : USA $ 6,595 : EU € 6,095
Roadfinder X E Shimano GRX 610 : £3,995 : USA $ 5,795 : EU € 5,295
Roadfinder X E SRAM Rival AXS: £5,495 : USA $ 7,895 : EU € 7,295
Roadfinder X E Campagnolo Ekar: £5,995 : USA $ 8,595 : EU € 7,995
The Pashley Roadfinder is also available as a frameset in all 3 colours at £1,595 : USA $ 2,295 : EU € 1,595
- More information can be found here…
Dress Like a Wolf with JBC Clothing
Soudal Quick-Step and AG Insurance – Soudal are partnering with the renowned Belgian clothing brand JBC, which will provide the teams’ riders and staff with stylish and durable off-bike casual wear.
JBC’s story began in 1975, when former professional cyclist Jean-Baptiste Claes gave his initials to the first JBC store in Schulen. Over the years, the fashion retailer grew into a leading family-run business with a strong commitment to all families. In 1985, Jean’s children, Bart and Ann, joined the company, and since 2003, they have co-led JBC as one of Belgium’s largest clothing retailers. Proud of its Belgian heritage, JBC strongly believes in local anchoring and actively supports local talent.
This makes them the perfect partner for our teams, who rely on high-quality clothing to withstand the demands of a long cycling season while remaining contemporary and fashionable. Now, you can dress like your favourite riders, as the JBC team collection is available for pre-order on our new and improved webshop.
Bart Claes, CEO of JBC, on the partnership: “Cycling is in our blood, as is supporting local talent. A collaboration with one of the most successful cycling teams feels like a natural fit. With this collection, we also pay tribute to my father, Jean-Baptiste Claes, who began the JBC journey exactly 50 years ago.”
- More info at: www.thewolfpack.shop
Note: If you have other experiences with gear or something to add, drop us a line. We don’t claim to know everything (we just imply it at times). Give us a pat on the back if you like the reviews or a slap in the head if you feel the need!
PezCycling News and the author ask that you contact the manufacturers before using any products you see here. Only the manufacturer can provide accurate and complete information on proper/safe use, handling, maintenance, and or installation of products as well as any conditional information or product limitations.
The post Gear Break: Pas Normal Studios Cool Kit, Chapter 2 Bikes RIRA and MANA5, JOIN Cycling app launches JOIN Running, SCICON Sustainable Future Offer, Pashley Roadfinder & Dress Like a Wolf with JBC appeared first on PezCycling News.
