Life In The Saddle

POC has become my go-to option for helmets; their weight, comfort and safety ratings are second to none. The POC Ventral SPIN helmet is the brand's latest release, and an incredible piece of technological development. The Ventral was designed in collaboration with POC's sponsored professionals, including the Cannondale-Drapac Cycling Team, as well as with feedback from POC specialists in the WATTS performance lab and aerodynamic testing labs. The result is a helmet that POC claim is the most comfortable, safest, and most aerodynamic yet. I can vouch that they are pretty on-point with that claim. The Ventral uses a unique approach to aerodynamics. Rather than pushing the air around the outside of the helmet, the Ventral's design leads air through it, and in doing so significantly reduces the aerodynamic wake behind the helmet. The Ventral's name comes from reference to the Venturi effect, which relates to how the helmet has been designed with specific airflow zone...

I have long been a fan of the POC Sports helmets and eyewear range: previously reviewing products such as the POC Octal Helmet and POC Do Half-Blade Sunglasses . On my #WildCardDolomitiRide , I finally got the chance to try out their apparel range too; in the form of the POC Raceday Climber's Jersey, AVIP Light Wind Vest and Multi-D Bib Shorts. POC Sports Raceday Climber's Jersey The POC Raceday Climber's Jersey is a lightweight minimalist piece; designed to keep you comfortable in the hottest conditions, and on the most challenging gradients. I tested the jersey on Haute Categorie climbs in the Dolomites, in 30 degree heat. It performed faultlessly. The fit (I'm wearing a size Small) is very good; with plenty of stretch in the fabric providing a form-fitting cut. The fabric itself is a lightweight and highly breathable 3D mesh material, which wicks away moisture effectively. With three rear pockets, subtle graphics, and fantastic colour schemes; this ...

The idea of riding the five historic Maratona dles Dolomites routes, over five consecutive days, evolved from a desire to discover and celebrate what this unique mountain range has to offer. Printed on a set of route cards, provided by cyclingdolomites.com , the five routes of this classic Grand Fondo would take me on new roads, and to new heights. It would also provide a challenge that would push bike, body and mind beyond previous limits. This is my #5MaratonasChallenge Sommario - a résumé of the challenge. The greatest memories; the hardest moments; my favourite kit; and the lessons learned. The Final Statistics #5MaratonasChallenge 5 rides 42 hours riding time 873 kilometres ridden 28,300 metres elevation climbed 7 Days in the Dolomites (including the warm-up and #WildCardDolomitiRide) 7 rides 55 hours riding time 1,073 kilometres ridden 36,500 metres elevation climbed The Lasting Memory It is hard to think of one defining moment or memory, from th...

There is another side to riding a bicycle in the Dolomites. Away from the passes and ski resorts you will find deserted single track roads, leading to tiny villages, farms and incredible vistas. With the #5MaratonasChallenge completed yesterday , today was the last day of this trip to the Italian mountains. I was keen to explore the less-discovered roads… Selecting the 'Not Only Dolomites Passes' card from the Holimites route card portfolio, I set out with Igor from Ustaria Posta  - in search of small lanes and hidden gems. Not far from home It didn't take long to discover the first of the beautiful roads. After a descent down the valley, we hooked a left turn, and headed up a twisting broken road; taking us far up above the valley floor. Gravel sections, wooden bridges, off-camber tracks, and functioning farm villages kept the mind engaged and interested. Down the valley, then up the Kiener Alm I bid farewell to Igor as we reached the cy...