Gear Break: Ekoï CLIMAX Thermal Skinsuit, SMITH Seeker Sunglasses, Bianchi New TT Bike, New Gobik Lancer Bib Shorts, Nimbl’s Latest Updates & New Kogel Speed Kolossos Derailleur Cage

Gear Break: Ekoï CLIMAX thermal skinsuit, SMITH Seeker sunglasses merging style and tech for outdoor pursuits, Bianchi unveils the new Aquila RC time trial model, new Lancer bib short by Gobik – Designed to win, Nimbl’s 2025 starts with evolution – The latest updates to its iconic products and new Kogel Speed Kolossos revs up oversized derailleur cage design.

 

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Ekoï CLIMAX Thermal Skinsuit – $339.99

This two-tone suit is made of an insulating and flexible thermal textured fibre (bottom) and a fabric with a brushed interior, soft and protective (top). Designed to tackle cold conditions down to 5°C, it features the new fast dry 8h pad, thin, ultra-breathable, and comfortable.

MATERIAL LOWER SECTION
– Insulating textile fibre
– Breathable
– Stretchable = great freedom of movement.

MATERIAL UPPER SECTION
– Brushed on the inside = comfort and thermal insulation

MESH MATERIAL at the lower abdomen. Purpose = breathability and ease during rest breaks

Mesh material in the abdomen section

Chuck Peña PEZ sez: Skinsuit generally means aero but in this case it means thermal. Essentially, the Ekoï CLIMAX Thermal Skinsuit is a thermal jersey wed to a pair of thermal tights. When my wife saw me pull it out of its packaging she said, “It’s a onesie!”

The jersey section is connected to the tights section

The Ekoï CLIMAX Thermal Skinsuit comes in four different colorways (meaning the color of the jersey section): Bourdeaux (a wine color), Blue, Green, and Beige (as well as women’s version with a flower pattern). PEZ got the blue.

The first thing I noticed about the Ekoï CLIMAX Thermal Skinsuit was its weight. As you would expect for thermal winter kit, it has some heft. The second thing I noticed was how soft to the touch the brushed interior was.

That’s 1.1 pounds for you non-metric types

Construction-wise, the tights section of the Ekoï CLIMAX Thermal Skinsuit consists of four full-length panels with serge-stitched seams (and with traditional rubber gripper at the ankle openings). If they were bib tights, I would ordinarily write about the bib section. But instead, the connected jersey section has the job of holding the tights up and in place. The jersey section is a lot like any other long-sleeve winter jersey:

• Two front panels connected by a full-length zipper (with traditional rubber gripper at the hem)
• Two side panels
• A single back panel
• Raglan sleeves
• High collar
• Everything with serge-stitched seams

Definitely a high collar

Fit-wise, size small fit me (5’8″, 130 pounds, ectomorph) comfortably snug. Certainly form fitting but for kit marketed as a skinsuit, not the spray-on, second skin, race fit you would expect. Getting into the Ekoï CLIMAX Thermal Skinsuit is pretty easy-peasy. One way to describe it: (1) step into and pull up the tights section and then (2) slip on/into the sleeves of the jersey section. Voila! Not a whole lot of having to wiggle in/pulling and tugging. One benefit of the skinsuit format is that it’s a lot easier than a jersey and bib tights when it comes time for a pit stop. #bonus #marginalgains

I really appreciated the raw cut sleeve ends that gripped without being too tight/constricting

The pad in the Ekoï CLIMAX Thermal Skinsuit is rated for 8 hours. I can’t attest to that (my longest winter/cold weather rides have only been a few hours long), but can say that I found it very comfortable in the saddle (and my butt-o-meter tells me it should be good for longer rides). It felt like it had a little more cushion than the pads in a lot my other bib shorts/tights, but didn’t feel like it was too thick or too soft, i.e., it was firm enough and not like a diaper.

The money part of the Ekoï CLIMAX Thermal Skinsuit

As far as how thermal the Ekoï CLIMAX Thermal Skinsuit is, I can say that it’s worked well for me (someone of Filipino ethnic heritage who doesn’t do cold as well as my more hardy riding pals of Nordic descent) down to the low 40s(F) with an appropriate baselayer — which is basically how Ekoï rates it (5°C). At the other end of the scale, the Ekoï CLIMAX Thermal Skinsuit is rated to 15°C/59°F. For me, on grey and blustery days in the 50s(F), it kept the chill off without overheating (but, for me, would be too much if it was sunny with ambient warmth).

I do have a few niggles (none of them deal-breakers). Consider them my humble product improvement suggestions:

• A full-length flap behind the zipper would not only be a #marginalgains aid to keeping out wind/cold but also protect against the zipper rubbing against bare skin (if worn without a baselayer)
• A cam-lock zipper to help make sure the zipper doesn’t flip up while riding
• A secure zipper pocket

Two large rear pockets (instead of the usual three), but no secure zipper pocket

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SMITH Seeker Sunglasses – Merging Style and Tech for Outdoor Pursuits
Design and Features Crafted from SMITH Multidisciplinary Athletes including Anton Krupicka

The Smith Seeker’s go well with a bike helmet

Alastair Hamilton sez: We all don’t just ride bikes, we go running and walking in the woods and hills and go rock climbing here at PEZ. Smith have all that covered with the Seeker glasses, that also have their ChromaPop Photochromic lens.

Apart from their rugged appearance, the Seeker glasses are remarkably comfortable. The nose piece isn’t adjustable, but they are rubber, so they sit well on your nose. The legs are adjustable and hold the sides of your head securely. The hinge is also sprung, so the legs click into place. The frames are quite chunky, but you only see the edges and they don’t obscure your vision.

The frames have side shields to stop any side light and also maybe any annoying wind, they are also light weight. The Seeker sunglasses come with an adjustable cord, which a must for the off road running and rock climbing. There is also a great glasses bag with a roll down top and strap, with a built in cleaning cloth, you are never without a cloth.

Good for every day

The lens I have are the ChromaPop Photochromic brown, everything looks very clear and the photochromic works fairly fast from sun to shade. When running they don’t bounce on your face and when on the bike they don’t hit the bottom of your helmet, but I would try them with your helmet to make sure. The Seeker is also cool enough to wear every day as well as on an adventure.

SMITH sez: Performance reimagined for today’s explorers, the new Seeker sunglass from SMITH is crafted for all terrains and endless pursuits. From running, hiking, biking, and alpine adventures, the Seeker is tailored in form and function from athlete feedback, including Anton Krupicka, by blending hidden technical features in a lifestyle-inspired frame.

The Seeker is constructed from lightweight bio-based Evolve™️ frame material in a trend-forward round lens design that incorporates subtle side shields to block unwanted side light and dust when exploring off the map. Available exclusively with SMITH’s proprietary ChromaPop™ lens technology delivering enhanced color, clarity, and definition of objects in three unique offerings; ChromaPop™️ Polarized, ChromaPop™ non-polarized Low Light Rose, and all new ChromaPop™️ PhotoChromic Brown lens that naturally adapts the tint to available light in any environment.

Additional performance features include auto-lock hinges to hold the frames open for easy, one-hand removal of the glasses, and the inclusion of megol temple and nose pads that react to perspiration for a non-slip grip that won’t bounce or slide during activities. The easy-adjust, QuickFit temples can be formed for a customizable, secure fit and are also leash-ready to attach the included retro-inspired paracord rope retainer. The Seeker safely stows in the included roll-top pouch with self-closing mechanism, integrated cleaning cloth, and cinch buckle for ultimate packability in a pocket or bag.

Offered in six unique colorways including a signature Anton Krupicka Matte Forest Tortoise offering, the Seeker (MSRP $175-$225 USD) is now available at smithoptics.com and select specialty retailers worldwide.

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Bianchi Unveils the New Aquila RC Time Trial Model
Engineered at the intersection of cutting-edge innovation and athletic performance, the Aquila RC is the result of 20 months of intense R&D. It’s a precision-crafted time trial model designed to redefine speed. The Aquila RC is set for its racing debut this Sunday at Étoile des Bessèges.

Aquila RC is Bianchi’s new time trial model

In an increasingly competitive road cycling landscape, every second counts. This is true for any challenge, but even more so in time trials, where one can only rely on oneself and the effectiveness of their equipment.

To achieve the goal to be the world’s fastest time trial bike, the Bianchi Reparto Corse sought a perfect balance by reconfirming their design philosophy: to treat the rider’s movement and the bicycle’s dynamics as a unified system. This holistic approach — previously used to create the revolutionary Oltre RC Hyperbike — found its ultimate expression in the Aquila RC project, specifically designed for time trials.

The Aquila has always been part of Bianchi’s emblem because it symbolizes power, speed, and elegance. The new Aquila RC carries this legacy forward by pushing the boundaries of time trial performance.

The development of Aquila RC required 20 months of design and testing with the athletes of Arkéa-B&B Hotels

PROJECT KEYWORD: OPTIMIZATION

Drawing on decades of expertise and 20 months of dedicated development, Bianchi collaborated with world-class time trial specialists and with Arkea-B&B Hotels WorldTour team’s Kévin Vauquelin, Tour de France stage winner and 2024 Paris Olympics participant.

The Aquila RC is the result of an iterative design process: a continuous cycle of CAD analysis, advanced simulations, prototypes, wind tunnel and road testing, and experimenting with various airfoil profiles — all for the single objective to create the fastest complete system.

After an in-depth data analysis, the Bianchi Reparto Corse opted for a seat tube angle of 77.5° — to match WorldTour time trial specialists’ preferences — combined with increased reach. The effect is a faster, more aggressive riding position.

The tube sections were designed to leverage a sailing effect by transforming side forces into forward thrust for both bike and cyclist.

The seat tube angle of Aquila RC is 77.5°

TESTING AND RESULTS

In time trial frame design, the variables that can be adjusted are extremely limited due to UCI regulations and the laws of physics. Therefore, the Bianchi Reparto Corse focused on optimizing the Aquila’s most impactful components: the handlebar, seatpost, and bottom bracket. By fine-tuning shape and position, Bianchi engineers minimized pressure drag in strategic areas of the frame.

Frame testing went beyond wind tunnel experiments. Countless riding hours were invested in order to understand how human movement interacts with bicycle aerodynamics. Developing an innovative tool that’s able to replicate movement with artificial legs allowed further optimization of the bike-athlete interaction.

The Aquila RC was tested in various configurations: the bike alone, the bike with static legs, with legs in motion, and by using different fork types.

The result is a savings of 16.1 watts at 50 km/h compared to the previous version. On a 40.7 km course, at an average speed between 50.4 km/h and 51.1 km/h, the Aquila RC went a whopping 37 seconds faster compared to the previous model. This time difference can change a race’s outcome.

The Aquila RC consistently outperformed the previous generation and the best industry competitor in yaw angles from -20° to 20°.

The development tests of Aquila RC went beyond the wind tunnel, leading to the creation of an innovative tool to replicate movement using artificial legs

AGGRESSIVE AND ADJUSTABLE COCKPIT

The new Aquila RC’s cockpit is the result of a collaboration with Vision FSA, a world leader in racing component design. The result is a high-performance cockpit with an impressive range, easy adjustability, and aerodynamic integration.

The handlebar, seatpost, and bottom bracket were the key focus areas during development

AVAILABILITY AND TECHNICAL CHARACTERISTICS

The Aquila RC is offered exclusively as a frameset, weighing in at 1.3 kg for the frame (M size) and 400 g for the fork. The frame kit is available in sizes S, M, and L, and can accommodate tires up to 28 mm.

The colouring of the new Aquila RC is Glossy Black and Metallic Celeste with logos and graphic inserts in Celeste CK16.

The Aquila RC will make its racing debut with Arkéa-B&B Hotels team athletes on Sunday, February 9, 2025, during the individual time trial from Alès to l’Hermitage, the final stage of the Étoile de Bessèges in France.

The new Aquila RC will make its race debut on Sunday, February 9.

The frame kit is available for €5,449. The price is the suggested retail price.

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New Lancer Bib Shorts by Gobik – Designed to Win

Gobik introduces its most advanced bib short to date: the Lancer.
Developed in collaboration with INEOS Grenadiers at the pinnacle of cycling, tested by the best riders such as Egan Bernal, Geraint Thomas, and Carlos Rodríguez on the WorldTour, and built for the highest level of competition.

With an ultralight build, high-compression fit, and cutting-edge materials, the Lancer represents the pinnacle of innovation and technical refinement.

Engineered for Unmatched Performance
Every element of the Lancer bib short has been meticulously crafted to enhance performance:

• Minimalist wraparound design with reduced seams to improve aerodynamics and comfort.
• 4-way stretch Lycra fabric, ensuring optimal muscle compression and adaptability to the rider’s movement.
• Chamois K12, with graphene technology by Elastic Interface®, providing thermoregulation, antibacterial properties, and enhanced durability.
• Ergonomic, laser-cut straps with thermosealed finishes for seamless comfort and superior breathability.
• Extended leg length (+2 cm) for increased muscle support and streamlined aerodynamics.
• Organic 3D grip ensuring secure hold without the need for traditional silicone bands.

The Future of Cycling Apparel is Here

Designed for elite athletes and demanding riders, the Lancer is built for warm to high-temperature conditions and long, intense training sessions and races. Its technical features allow for seamless integration with the cyclist’s movements, setting a new benchmark in cycling apparel.

The Lancer bib short is the culmination of years of research, innovation, and continuous evolution in performance cycling apparel. Developed through rigorous testing in professional racing environments and shaped by the insights of world-class athletes, it represents a new benchmark in technical refinement.

Every detail, from the advanced fabric selection to the precision-engineered construction, has been meticulously designed to push the limits of comfort, aerodynamics, and muscle support. This is more than just a bib short—it’s a statement of progress, expertise, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in cycling performance.

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Nimbl’s 2025 starts with evolution. Here are the latest updates to its iconic products
The new versions reinforce the brand’s ongoing commitment to achieving the highest levels of performance in competition.
Nimbl kicks off the year by updating some of its most popular products in terms of performance, comfort and aesthetics, while retaining the features that have made the brand famous in the world of professional cycling.

Ultimate Exceed Pro

A defining element of the entire Nimbl range is the carbon monocoque sole. Used on all top models, it ensures maximum power transmission, balanced stiffness and uncompromising lightness.

Ultimate Exceed Pro

One of Nimbl’s best sellers is undoubtedly the Ultimate Exceed Pro Edition, which in its updated version offers a series of improvements aimed at maximising performance. The new ventilation system provides improved breathability, while the new cotton eyelets on the BOA Li2 closure system improve comfort and fit by reducing pressure on critical areas of the foot.

Ultimate Exceed Pro

Weighing in at 192 grams (size 43), this shoe strikes the perfect balance between lightness, comfort, and stiffness. This versatility makes it a great choice for multiple disciplines.Designed for professionals, it is the brand’s quintessential racing shoe, perfect for sprinters, climbers, and stage hunters. It adapts to different needs without compromising performance. Finally, the new graphic design reinforces the racing character of the shoe, underlining its competitive spirit and high-performance DNA.

Ultimate Feat

Redesigned to deliver the ultimate, the Ultimate Feat also gets an update. Its unmistakably elegant style and new carbon monocoque sole are now synonymous with lightness, support, and optimal power transmission. The redesigned reinforced microfibre Power Strap provides even more effective support, further improving overall comfort compared to the previous model. Weighing in at just 180g (size 43), the Ultimate Feat is the ideal choice for those looking for performance, stability and a perfect fit.

Ultimate Feat

The Ultimate Air is the ideal choice for cyclists who want uncompromising lightness and performance. Designed for those who push their limits, this model is a perfect blend of lightness, comfort and high performance. The new carbon monocoque sole, previously used in the Ultimate Exceed Glide and Ultimate Feat models, maximises every pedal stroke. Its minimalist and functional design gives the shoe an extremely tight fit, increasing control and responsiveness. Its simple, streamlined, and close-fitting design provides an aerodynamic advantage. The lace fastening ensures a secure and personalised fit. At just 167 grams (size 43), it’s one of the lightest cycling shoes on the market. Perfect for tackling long climbs, but also for those looking for a shoe that uncompromisingly combines high performance, speed and comfort.

Ultimate Air

Each pair of Nimbl shoes is handmade in Italy, a testament to the brand’s craftsmanship. From the Ultimate Exceed Pro Edition to the Ultimate Air, each product blends innovation and tradition to deliver unrivalled performance, comfort and durability.

Ultimate Air

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New Kogel Speed Kolossos Revs Up Oversized Derailleur Cage Design
Already one of the fastest, stiffest oversized derailleur cage systems in the world, the new Kogel Speed Kolossos takes it to the next level with an even stiffer, sleeker, and more aerodynamic design.

Key points:

• New, stiffer, more aerodynamic design
• New, larger 20-tooth lower pulley
• Near universal road & gravel derailleur compatibility
• No price increase over original Kolossos

Taking advantage of five years of evolution, the Kogel Speed Kolossos keeps all of the features that made the original so popular.

With nods to the Aero Kolossos, the new Speed Kolossos’ shapely new design now looks right at home on modern, integrated road bikes and sleek derailleurs, and it’s as light as ever, averaging just 98 grams.

It’s also faster than ever, with a new, larger 20-tooth lower pulley replacing the original’s 19-tooth wheel. Up top are 12- and 14-tooth pulleys, depending on the derailleur model. All pulleys roll on Kogel’s legendary ceramic bearings with Road bearing seals for dry conditions for the lowest possible friction, but can be rebuilt with Cross seals for wet or dusty conditions.

Taking inspiration from the Aero Kolossos, the open cage allows full access to the pulley wheels and chain for easy cleaning and servicing. And it’s still the stiffest design on the market for precise shifts no matter how hard you’re pedaling on the roughest gravel courses.

More color options

The shape is complemented by stealthy black and raw finishes, plus a special Black Gold Cerakote launch edition.

For riders who want a truly unique look, they offer full custom color finishes through their in-house Cerakote lab. And, for the first time ever, riders can custom color match a Kogel bottom bracket in Cerakote, too!

“Kogel was founded on the principle of making riders faster and bikes more efficient,” says founder Ard Kessels. “The new Speed Kolossos delivers all of the gains and robust reliability we’re known for with the modern aesthetic and customization options discerning cyclists demand.”

Compatibility List

Shimano

• • • Current 12 speed Dura Ace, Ultegra & 105
    • Backwards compatible with 11-speed Shimano Dura Ace, Ultegra & 105
    • Shimano GRX 2x both 11- and 12-speed, mechanical & Di2

SRAM

• • Red AXS E1 (2024)
  • Previous generation Red and Force AXS (not yet for Rival)

Pricing & Availability

The new Speed Kolossos retails for $499.99 and ships starting February 11, 2025. It replaces the original truss-design model for road and gravel applications, bringing improved looks and performance without any price increase.

Customization and additional color options include:

• Special edition Cerakote colors – $599.99
• Custom Cerakote colors – $649.99

Custom anodization and Cerakote finishes have a 1-2 week lead time.

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