Gear Break: Everfun Hydration Backpack, Continental Introduces Grand Prix TR, ENVE Melee New Look, AERON/TPU Premium SuperLight Tubes, DMT ‘Superhero Version’ for Kids & Tout Terrain Trekking and Touring Pedals

Gear Break: Everfun hydration backpack, Continental introduces Grand Prix TR: A tire for every ride, the ENVE Melee gets a new look, AERON/TPU launches premium SuperLight Race models with aluminum valves, dreaming of Tadej: Here’s the DMT “Superhero Version” of the KR4 PJ for kids and Tout Terrain introduces the touring pedal II: A new benchmark in trekking and touring pedals.

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Everfun Hydration Backpack $44.99 – $54.99

Per the manufacturer:

• The hiking bag features high-density nylon fabric and a built-in rain cover – ideal for rainy activities. The reflective strips keep you visible in low-light conditions. A designated space for your helmet between the outer and middle pockets.
• Stay organized with 9 functional divider pockets to keep all your essentials secure. The 18-liter main compartment is large enough for clothes, notebooks, first-aid kit, pet supplies. Built-in mesh pocket for personal valuables. Exterior upper velvet pocket for protecting glasses, cameras, cell phones. Trekking poles/water bottles fit in the side mesh pockets for easy access.
• This hiking hydro backpack has a special separate insulated compartment for the water bladder to keep liquids cool for up to 6 hours (with ice packs), making it perfect for long hikes, bike rides, or any outdoor adventure.

DIMENSIONS: 18.5″ tall x 10.5″ wide x 6″ deep

Chuck Peña PEZ sez:  At first glance, the Everfun Hydration Backpack looks like … well … a small backpack. But what sets it apart is the internal bladder for liquids. By way of comparison, my Camelbak Podium water bottles are 21 oz (620 ml). The 2-liter version of the Everfun Hyrdation Backpack is the equivalent of more than three Camelbak Podium water bottles (either in replacement of or in addition to the two you might normally carry on a bike). The 3-liter version is almost five! So if you do riding where hydration is of paramount importance and you may not have easy access to a gas station or convenience store to refill water bottles, this is definitely the ‘droid you’re looking for.

As a backpack for carrying stuff (for example, books) around, the Everfun Hydration Backpack is fully functional. I’ll let pictures do a lot of the talking.

The main compartment has zippered mesh pocket (inset) for storing stuff you want to keep secure (my soft case with all my spare tube, tire levers, CO2, etc. plus mini-pump for reference)

Hydration bladder

NOTE: The interior of the main compartment isn’t padded so IMHO not ideally suited for carrying a laptop (although actually big enough for my MacBook Air). If I did want to carry a laptop, I would probably put it in a protective sleeve — maybe even a waterproof sleeve as a paranoid precaution against the the one-in-one million chance the hydration bladder bursts. Alternatively, you could put a laptop in the space reserved for the hydration bladder but that would defeat the purpose of having a hydration backpack.

If you need to carry something more than can fit in the main compartment, you could use the bungee /shock cord strap to hold it in place (like a rolled up sweatshirt or jacket)

The outside pocket is lined with a soft material to help prevent scratching (my daughter’s old iPhone 6S Plus for reference)

And there’s a carabiner clip to attach stuff to (maybe a small flashlight, a solar power bank/charger, or poop bags if you’ve got your dog in tow)

Front/secondary compartment to hold more (small-ish) stuff

The front compartment “hinges” to create a space that can be used to carry a helmet when off the bike

The straps are a padded mesh material and the back padding is also mesh for air flow/comfort

The mesh side pockets for stowing whatever else you can fit, including … wait for it … water bottles

Of course, the real reason to buy an Everfun Hydration Backpack is its hydration capability/capacity. PEZ got the 2-liter version. The bladder stores in separate section of the main compartment. NOTE: The backpack itself is the same whether you get the 2-liter or 3-liter bladder (and it’s possible to buy the bladder separately if you ever need to replace it or want to upgrade from 2- to 3-liters).

Unscrew the cap to fill the bladder with water or your favorite sports drink. The opening is big to make it easy to fill and to add ice cubes

The hose is detachable to make it easier to clean the bladder

There’s a sleeve at the top of each shoulder strap to route the hose from the inside of the main compartment. The dust cover helps to prevent damage and keep the bite valve clean when not using.

Pull to open (green arrow) the bite valve and push to close (red arrow)

A rain/dust cover is stowed in the bottom zipper compartment

Wearing the Everfun Hydration Backpack is like any other backpack. Slip your arms through the shoulder straps and adjust them for fit. If you need a more secure/stable fit, there is a chest strap that connects the shoulder straps and a waist strap. I’m not a hiker, but it’s a set up that should work well for a day hike carrying a nice picnic lunch.

As a former bike courier, I’m partial to courier bags, and for my riding, I don’t have a practical use for a hydration backpack. That said, the Everfun Hyrdation Backpack works as advertised. As a backpack, it can hold an assortment of stuff — bike-related or otherwise. And as an alternative (or in addition to) water bottles, a simple bite and sucking on the valve delivers a flow of liquid on demand.

The Everfun Hyrdation Backpack may not be an accessory for diehard roadies wanting to look EuroPro on their weekend shop/training ride. But it’s easy to see how it would be more than useful for ultra-endurance, gravel, mountainbike, and other off the beaten path adventure riding — like PEZ’s il dottore aka Dr. Stephen Cheung’s 5-day self-supported bikepacking trip in Iceland.

** SAVE 10% Off – Use Promo Code “10PezCycling” when you buy this Everfun Hydration Backpack $44.99 – $54.99

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Continental Introduces Grand Prix TR: A Tire for Every Ride

• The Grand Prix TR makes tubeless-ready technology accessible to a wider audience
• The completely new 4-ply construction combines low weight with good puncture protection
• Available in a wide range of sizes from 25 – 622

Continental has unveiled the Grand Prix TR, a new road tire that blends value with tubeless-ready performance. Positioned within Continental’s endurance segment, the Grand Prix TR is designed for cyclists who want a dependable, all-round tire for training, commuting, and long-distance rides.

Building on the legacy of the GP5000 family, the Grand Prix TR incorporates technologies like Continental’s renowned BlackChili compound, offering an optimal blend of grip and rolling resistance. The all-new 4-ply construction balances low weight and puncture protection, making it ideal for riders racking up the kilometers over the season.

Hannah Ferle, Road Product Manager, Continental Tires, said: “We recognised that many riders wanted to experience some of the performance benefits of our top-tier race tires in a more accessible package. With the Grand Prix TR, we’ve brought tubeless-ready technology, strong puncture protection, and excellent rolling resistance to a wider audience. It delivers a smooth, confident ride across a variety of road surfaces—making it a tire for every ride.”

With the Grand Prix TR, Continental is introducing a new generation of entry-level road tires that incorporate learnings and technologies from its premium lineup. This launch highlights Continental’s commitment to making advanced tire innovation more accessible to a broader range of cyclists.

In addition to the tubeless-ready version, a tube-type version will also be available in select sizes.

Key features of the Grand Prix TR

• Available in Black or Transparent Sidewall
• Weight: starts at 310g
• Dimensions: 25-622, 28-622, 30-622, 32-622
• Technology: BlackChili compound, 4-ply construction, tubeless-ready and hookless compatible

Pricing and availability

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The ENVE Melee Gets a New Look

All the performance characteristics you want in a road race bike, without the limitations. The Melee features ample tire clearance, IN-Route integration, and the Real-World Fast design philosophy. As a proven winner at the highest level of the sport, the Melee is ready for criteriums and classics alike. Now available in three fresh colors to choose from.

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AERON/TPU Launches Premium SuperLight Race Models with Aluminum Valves

AERON/TPU, the new brand of the RTI Sports Group (best known for its Ergon saddles and grips), unveiled its new range of high-performance inner tubes at this year’s COREbike show in Towcester, United Kingdom in February, in conjunction with its global distribution partner Extra UK.

The highlight of the premium AERON/TPU AirTubes is the SuperLite Race series, which are equipped with aluminum Presta valves.

AERON/TPU aluminum valve features:

• Removeable valve core
• Improved valve extender compatibility
• More tolerant of extreme temperatures
• Very durable
• The machined valve stem ensures a secure hold for the pump head

AERON/TPU will bring to market (this spring) versions of the SuperLite Race tubes for road, mountain and CX/gravel riders who seek the very best with their very low weight, low rolling resistance, extremely small pack size and yet high puncture protection.

Weight of the AERON/TPU SuperLite Race models with aluminum valve stem:

• Road SuperLite Race, 23-25mm, Presta Valve 42mm: 21g
• MTB SuperLite Race, 1.7‘’-2.5‘’, Presta Valve 42mm: 40g
• CX/Gravel SuperLite Race, 32-52mm, Presta Valve 42mm: 30g

The AERON/TPU tubes in the SuperLite Race series with aluminum valve stems will be available in various widths with valve lengths of 42-, 65- and 80-millimeters coming April.

The more-competitively-priced models with 42-millimeter TPU valve stems will be available in May. All models of Airtubes with 65- and 80-millimeter TPU valve stems will be available in July.

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Dreaming of Tadej: Here’s the DMT “Superhero Version” of the KR4 PJ for Kids

The future generations of cycling will grow up with a clear role model, an icon in mind: Tadej Pogačar. A true example of sportsmanship, he has always been approachable to younger fans, especially children—never shying away from photos, autographs, and smiles. And then there’s his way of embracing the sport, those thrilling celebrations after his victories that excite and entertain the youngest fans.

For its children’s shoe line, DMT naturally drew inspiration from the world champion—its top ambassador—giving young riders the chance to “step into his shoes” in every sense of the word with the KR4 PJ JUNIOR. The Italian brand, based in Bonferraro di Sorgà (Verona), has created a special edition of its already popular model, featuring the cartoon logo of the extraordinary green superhero that Tadej famously stuck on his bike’s handlebars (remember his yellow jersey celebration at the Tour de France?). The shoe is available in sizes 35 to 39.

Just like Tadej’s POGIS, the KR4 PJ JUNIOR features laces and a mesh upper, an open-knit fabric that enhances airflow. This breathable material keeps feet dry even during the most intense rides and is designed to be lightweight and flexible, reducing overall weight while adapting naturally to the rider’s movements.

The microfiber tongue makes the shoes easy to slip on, even for kids with high insteps, and thanks to its soft, flexible structure, it wraps comfortably around the foot for a secure and snug fit. The nylon sole ensures immediate and responsive power transfer. It also features efficient ventilation for full breathability, while the 8 mm adjustable slots allow for precise, customized cleat positioning.

This special “superhero edition” for kids not only sports the cartoon logo on the shoe but also comes in exclusive POGIS-style packaging, just like the shoes Tadej wears every day. Inside, young Pogačar fans will discover extra surprises: an autograph card signed by Tadej himself and, via a QR Code, a special recorded message from the champion. With the blessing of the Slovenian superstar and the KR4 PJ JUNIOR on their feet, the next generation can start dreaming big!

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Tout Terrain Introduces the Touring Pedal II: A New Benchmark in Trekking and Touring Pedals

Tout Terrain, Germany’s leader in touring and adventure bicycles, proudly announces the release of the Touring Pedal II, setting a new standard in the trekking and touring pedal market.

The Touring Pedal II uniquely combines a grip tape platform with a click system, ensuring maximum traction without damaging shoe soles, offering optimal comfort and safety for both road and touring cyclists.

Crafted from a single block of aluminium, the pedal is exceptionally robust and durable. Its combination of ball and plain bearings simplifies maintenance, an advanced sealing mechanism protects the bearings from dirt and moisture, significantly extending the pedal’s lifespan. The CrMo steel axle further enhances its load capacity and stability.

Compared to traditional MTB pedals, the Touring Pedal II features an enlarged contact surface, ensuring better pressure distribution on the shoe and significantly enhancing pedaling comfort. This is particularly beneficial on long tours or challenging routes, especially for touring shoes with softer soles.

The double-sided design—one side with a click system, the other as a platform—allows for universal use. It’s also ideal for mountain bikers who appreciate the freedom of a platform pedal during technical sections but desire the efficiency of a click system on long climbs.

Touring Pedal II features:

• Weight: 400g
• Terrain: road, touring, all-road
• Material: Machined Aluminium
• Size: 65mm x 100mm
• Price: 84.90 €
• Each pedal set includes SPD-compatible cleats and screws, ensuring riders are ready to hit the road immediately.
• More info at: tout-terrain.de

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