Last year the downhill racing scene saw the return of Intense Cycles, a brand that’s deeply rooted in racing heritage but had been absent on the World Cup circuit for several years. During their comeback season they partnered up with POC to provide eyewear, apparel and protective gear. Recently POC announced that partnership will continue for 2016, so expect to see Intense’s team riders Jack Moir (Australia), Luca Cometti (USA), Nik Nestoroff (USA), and Dean Lucas (Australia) rocking POC helmets, clothing and protective gear throughout the 2016 World Cup Downhill series.
“Intense’s heritage is world cup racing” says Intense founder, Jeff Steber. “We built our brand and developed our bikes on race courses throughout the 90’s and early 2000’s and it feels amazing to be back. Great riders and great collaboration with POC means we are well placed and the season ahead looks awesome.”
POC’s Intense Edition gear is also available to consumers, so race past the break to check out the graphics, details and prices…
Coron helmet
The Coron helmet uses POC’s M-FORGE shell, constructed from a high-tech fiber material that the brand says offers low weight, excellent durability and better multi-impact performance than existing shell materials. Inside the shell is a multi-impact EPP liner with internal ventilation channels to keep your whole head cool. The helmet also features a breakaway visor, removable and washable liner, and one very interesting idea- The ear chambers were designed to not hamper hearing and minimize any effect on the rider’s balance. The Coron helmet’s weight is listed at 1050g (size not specified), and it is available in XS-XXL. It sells for $525 USD.
Cornea Flow goggles
The triple-layer foam, soft polyurethane frame and strap outriggers on POC’s Cornea Flow goggles should ensure a comfortable fit for anyone’s face and any helmet. You’ll also enjoy a wide field of view from the lens’ placement on the outside of the frame, and minimal distortion due to its injected cylindrical shape. The Cornea’s inner lens has an anti-fog coating to keep them from steaming up, and the outer lens is coated to prevent scratches. The Cornea Flow Intense Edition goggles sell for $168.
Resistance Strong jersey
The Resistance Strong jersey uses a combination of lightweight, moisture-wicking nylon in the body and a more durable polyester jacquard knitted fabric for the shoulders and outer arms in order to provide comfort, performance and a little protection. The jersey features a relaxed fit to accommodate elbow pads and/or spinal protection, and is treated with odor-resistant polygiene to keep your post-race funk at bay. The Resistance Strong jersey comes in sizes XS-XXL and costs $126.
Resistance Strong gloves
For those who like their hands well protected, POC’s Resistance Strong gloves feature flexible, impact-absorbing pads on the knuckles and silicone pads on their ventilated palms. The outer fingers and knuckles are made from a durable and low-friction ceramic coated Superfabric, and silicone printing on the index and middle finger helps ensure excellent control for braking or holding on tight. The thumbs feature a terry nose-wipe panel and are touch-screen compatible. The Resistance Strong gloves come in sizes XS-XL, and sell for $73.50.
