Two for Tuesday: Met and Astute
From issue 86
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ASTUTE SKY LINE 3.0
For most, a super-light saddle is good for little more than a weight-weeny concept bike that will never leave a showroom floor. When it comes time to do any serious riding, comfort usually trumps all other factors in choosing a saddle. That’s where the Astute Sky Line 3.0 comes in. This handmadein-Italy saddle combines titanium rails with a unique twin-nylonshell design for reducing road vibration. A tri-density memory foam tops it all off to create a package that has a reasonable amount of padding while still being performance oriented. The flat, cutout design adds to the comfort by relieving perineal pressure. And at 220 grams, it’s no weight burden—offering a well-thought-out matrix of light weight, comfort and affordability in handmade Italian goodness. $190; 220g (standard size); ciclista-america.com
MET RIVALE
The MET Trente is a not just a technological wonder, it’s also a gorgeous helmet that doesn’t look like every other helmet on the road; but Met’s lineup runs deeper than just the Trente. The new Rivale is a super-quick aero lid that manages to retain solid ventilation and comes in at just 230 grams—that’s climbing-helmet weight! It uses a similar profile to the Manta, but has 16 vents, including an NACA-inspired top vent designed to pull air across your head and increase cooling. It has gel pads on the adjustable rear cradle; washable, antibacterial padding; and adjustable helmet straps. It’s aero, it’s cool and it’s light. Oh, yeah, it’s also really inexpensive! $135; 230g; met-helmets.com
From issue 86.