Gear Break: ekoï C12 Pro Team road cycling shoes, buycycle adds components, Pinarello unveils new, eye-catching DOGMA X colorways, SMITH launches new Seeker sunglass merging style and tech for outdoor pursuits, Primal NEW HI-Viz and reflective – Be seen and SIDI X L’EROICA: Introducing the Tenacia shoe.
Ekoï C12 Pro Team Road Cycling Shoes – $474.99
PEZ sez: Ekoï is a French manufacturer that probably isn’t as well known in the North American market, but they supply shoes to a number of different pro teams, such as Lotto-Dstny, Israel-PremierTech, Cofidis, and Arkéa-B&B Hotels. They also supply shoes to individual riders who are on teams that don’t have an official shoe sponsor. Carlos Rodriguez of Ineos Grenadiers, Valentin Madous of Groupama FDJ, and Guillame Martin of Cofidis all ride the C12 Pro Team shoes.
I’ll have a more full review at a later date, so consider this a PEZ sneak peek for now. I can tell you that just holding them they are definitely light. The leather is super soft. A favorite British phrase that comes to mind: they are the dog’s bollocks!
Leather and carbon fiber goodness
The C12 Pro Team is Ekoï’s top of the line shoe intended to meet the needs of professional cyclists. So it has all the bells and whistles you would expect from a shoe of this caliber (and price):
Stiff carbon sole to transfer power to the pedals (unlike many other manufacturers, Ekoï doesn’t say that the soles are x stiff on scale of y — because there is no standard scale for measuring/comparing stiffness) with venting for airflow
A soft and supple profusely perforated leather upper (so definitely a warm weather shoe), which is rare these days as most manufacturers have opted for synthetic material
BOA Li2 dials for precision fit (combined with a shoe volume designed to fit very close to the foot but with sufficient space in the forefoot for riding long distances and warm conditions)
Sexy is a word that comes to mind
Stiff heel counter/cup
Heel and toe pads aren’t replaceable. Intake and exit vents for airflow/wicking.
Venting from the inside-out
If you’re like me and ride Speedplay pedals, you’ll need an adaptor plate. Otherwise, standard LOOK 3-hole mounting with lots of fore/aft adjustment.
Metatarsal pad promotes blood flow when pedaling and avoids discomfort in the toe box by slightly spreading the toes
Classy shoe bag … more like a shoe garage
I have yet to ride in the Ekoï C12 Pro Team shoes, but — needless to say — I’m anxious to do so. I don’t doubt that my feet will be more than happy wearing/pedaling in them. And I know I’m fortunate to have the opportunity to ride in pro-level shoes. If they’re good enough for the likes of Carlos Rodriguez, Valentin Madous, and Guillame Martin, I’m sure they’ll be more than good enough for me! Stay tuned for a more detailed review once I’ve logged some miles in the Ekoï C12 Pro Team shoes.
buycycle Expands Product Offering to Include Components
The global marketplace for pre-owned bikes will now offer a full range of pre-owned bike components
buycycle – the leading marketplace for premium pre-owned bikes, is launching a dedicated marketplace for bike components. This move aims to fill a gap in the second-hand cycling market, making it easier for cyclists to buy and sell essential parts.
Tapping into a growing market
With a current offer of over 25,000 bikes, buycycle has become a trusted destination for cyclists around the world. Intending to further strengthen the platform’s foothold, the decision to expand into bike components comes at a strategic time. The global demand for bicycle parts is booming: According to recent reports, the global bicycle components market is projected to reach $12.35 billion by the end of 2024 and nearly double to $23.7 billion by 2034, growing at a steady compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.7% Fact.MR). This rise in demand for sustainable, affordable, and upgraded cycling solutions has, therefore, created a unique opportunity for buycycle to cater to a broader audience that the company is ready to take on.
What’s included in the new marketplace
The marketplace will launch simultaneously in both Europe and the U.S., simplifying domestic transactions across both regions. To maintain the level of customer protection buycycle already offers for bikes, the Bike Parts buyer protection plan will cover issues such as shipping damages and discrepancies between listed and received items. Selling on the platform comes at no charge, making it easy and cost-free for sellers.
A natural progression for buycycle
buycycle’s Co-Founder and CEO, Theodor Golditchuk, has had components in mind for quite some time now: about the expansion: “Launching a component marketplace is a natural step for buycycle. We’ve consistently heard from our community that there’s a need for affordable, quality parts. By integrating this into our platform, we’re making it easier for cyclists to upgrade or modify their bikes without breaking the bank. This move is grounded in customer feedback and strong market demand.”
Building a global cycling community
buycycle’s mission has always been to create a trusted platform for the global community of cyclists so they can buy and sell pre-owned bikes with ease. The marketplace allows anyone to find dream bikes at a fraction of the original cost, all while offering a safe, secure, and convenient marketplace experience. Expanding this mission to pre-owned components comes naturally and will further broaden the company’s presence in the cycling sphere.
About buycycle
Founded in 2021 by cycling enthusiasts Jonas, Florian, and Theo, buycycle was born from a personal need for a safer way to purchase pre-owned bikes. After Jonas experienced difficulties with unreliable sellers on other platforms, the trio set out to create a trusted marketplace where cyclists could buy and sell bikes without worry. Today, buycycle is proud to be Europe’s leading marketplace for high-quality pre-owned bicycles and, with this latest expansion, bike components. The team remains dedicated to making cycling accessible for everyone.
You can see the new marketplace at: buycycle.
Pinarello Unveils New, Eye-Catching DOGMA X Colorways
Pinarello has launched three fresh, new colorway choices across its revolutionary endurance road bike – DOGMA X.
The DOGMA X is now available in Xolar White, Xolar Yellow and Xolar Sea, expanding the original color offering that included Xolar Black and Xolar Green, first introduced at the bike’s launch in September 2023.
The DOGMA X is inspired by riders who enjoy long days in the saddle. This exceptional machine has been crafted to feature, pioneering X-STAYS technology and unprecedented tire clearance, and its unique endurance geometry and technical design strikes the perfect balance of performance and ride comfort, reshaping how we think about endurance and speed.
Ultimate Comfort, Ultimate Performance
Leveraging modern carbon technology, the DOGMA X offers generous 35mm tire clearance to provide an unrivaled experience.
Featuring state-of-the-art X-STAYS to absorb vibrations without sacrificing frame weight or BB stiffness.
DOGMA X uses Toray’s T1100 1K carbon fiber, offering the ultimate lightness-to-stiffness ratio.
Asymmetry is in Pinarello’s DNA. The DOGMA X frame is asymmetrically designed to balance the greater torsional forces imparted by the chain, providing riders with a perfectly symmetrical ride.
Find out more about the Pinarello DOGMA X – including details of region-specific groupset, wheel and colourway options – at pinarello.com
SMITH Launches New Seeker Sunglass Merging Style and Tech for Outdoor Pursuits
Design and Features Crafted from SMITH Multidisciplinary Athletes including Anton Krupicka
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.
Buy the Smith Seeker sunglasses with this link and PEZ receives a small commission.
Primal NEW HI-Viz and Reflective – Be Seen
Visibility is crucial when riding your bike, whether on the roads or trails; safety should always be a top priority. Our Hi-Viz and Reflective collection includes a range of products designed to enhance visibility, from wind jackets and sun sleeves to full kits and more. Safety is always in style – Be Seen.
More info on Primal at: www.primalwear.com.
SIDI X L’EROICA: Introducing the Tenacia Shoe
Sidi and Eroica are proud to announce the release of the Tenacia shoe, a truly special model born from their sponsorship collaboration. This unique shoe draws inspiration from the heritage and style of 1970s cycling, designed specifically for the Eroici who appreciate both tradition and performance.
The Tenacia shoe reinterprets Sidi’s iconic design, paying homage to the era when Sidi revolutionized cycling by inventing the first clip under the shoe.
It combines vintage aesthetics with modern craftsmanship, featuring a sleek shape, flat sole ideal for use with bike toe clips, and high-quality microfiber materials, offering both style and durability.
Exclusive details include the Sidi logo embroidered on the heel and the Eroica logo prominently displayed on the tongue, symbolizing a shared passion for vintage cycling. This collaboration marks the first time a shoe has been specifically created for Eroica by a brand as prestigious as Sidi, making the Tenacia a must-have for cycling aficionados.
Priced at €189, the Tenacia shoe is now available for purchase through Sidi’s e-commerce platform and at the CASA Eroica store in Gaiole in Chianti during the Eroica event.
For more information or to purchase the Tenacia, visit www.sidi.com or explore it firsthand at Eroica Gaiole.
Note: If you have other experiences with gear or something to add, drop us a line. We don’t claim to know everything (we just imply it at times). Give us a pat on the back if you like the reviews or a slap in the head if you feel the need!
PezCycling News and the author ask that you contact the manufacturers before using any products you see here. Only the manufacturer can provide accurate and complete information on proper/safe use, handling, maintenance, and or installation of products as well as any conditional information or product limitations.
The post Gear Break: ekoï C12 Pro Shoes, buycycle Adds Bits, Pinarello DOGMA X Colorways, SMITH Seekers, Primal HI-Viz & SIDI X L’EROICA Shoe appeared first on PezCycling News.
