We don’t often see many new things from Europe in Taipei since their production calendar revolves around Eurobike’s early-September show, but sometimes things get done early, (or late), and you show what you got. This year Vittoria had a pretty nice looking helmet and shoes, and Prologo gave us a sneak peek at their CPC new technology that does everything better…
The new VH-Ikon helmet from Vittoria isn’t labeled an “aero” helmet but definitely is more aero than other models in the line-up. They wanted something more aero that still had good cooling abilities in the hotter months. I really liked the idea of the top vent as it resembles those on motorcycle helmets which are there to increase the flow of hot air out the back of the helmet. Even the side intake and exhaust vents look the business.
Inside the padding seems to provide a wide surface area, so assuming it fits your head-shape, it’s probably pretty comfortable. Curious as to how well it vents, but regardless, it looks badass. The $200 VH-Ikon is also available in white and comes in small and medium sizes.
Vittoria had some new kicks at the show including the La Tecnica. Details are scarce but it appears to be similar to their flagship Ikon road shoe but in a perforated leather rather than a leather/mesh upper.
There was also this swank lace-up version. They already make the 1976 vintage style lace-up (also with carbon sole), but these may have a more modern fit and be more purposeful for racing should someone prefer a lace-up over other systems.
What appears to be the same carbon sole as their Ikon shoe, Vittoria seems to be expanding on their top-tier offerings for those that prefer a high level of performance in a more sophisticated looking shoe.
Prologo didn’t have any new saddles to show us, but were kind enough to give us a sneak peek at their new CPC technology.
CPC (Connect Power Control), is a 3D Polymer layer on select saddles that provides shock & vibration absorption, better air-flow, and grip. The new CPC2 is currently being tested by sponsored rider Alberto Contador.
Compared to the first version of CPC, the CPC2 has several hexagonal groups of “micro fingers” (for descriptive purposes), that are spaced apart vs. being just one solid section of them. According to the folks at Prologo, the spaced out sections of CPC are grippier, (aids in power transfer), provide 50% more shock absorption than previous versions, and provide better air-flow and comfort.
CPC2 will come on the following saddles:
- Zero C3 CPC
- Scratch 2 CPC
- Nago Evo CPC
- Zero 2 CPC
The new saddles should be available around the Tour de France and they hinted that they will have a new off-road saddle at Sea Otter, so stay tuned!
