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Distributors’ Details: Wipperman — Velo Vita 02 9700 9799 (velovita.net.au); CeramicSpeed — Performance Sports Distribution 07 5568 7573; Revbox — revbox.co.nz

Wipperman: Connex 11-SpeedCampagnolo users often turn to Wipperman because the chains are comparatively inexpensive and are pretty reliable. The Connex 11-speed is compatible for SRAM, Shimano and Campagnolo groupsets and presents itself as a total bargain when considering that a quick link costs half that of a chain. There is little to lose when trying this alternative to the ‘big three’ – you might even like it.

CoSt: $100 Weight: 268g

Wipperman Connex Link 11-SpeedIt’s finally here! The world’s most reliable joining pin

has arrived in an updated 11-speed version. If it is

anything like its eight-, nine-, and 10-speed predecessor, the link will be easily opened by hand and will be exceptionally durable (it lasts over 20,000km for most). It should work

better than the 10-speed quick links for Shimano users because the 11-speed chains are symmetrical whereas the 7800 generation Dura-Ace was directional.

Why should you spend $50 on a quick link? It enables you to easily remove, clean, and refit your chain as many times as you like without worrying about ‘pinning it’ too often and reducing the strength. Cleaning the chain regularly increases its life and makes your bike look a lot better whilst improving shift performance.

You should buy a Wipperman 11-speed link.

CoSt: $50 Weight: 4g

CeramicSpeed Pulley Wheel TitaniumCeramicSpeed is a relatively well known brand of bona fide cycling bling meaning that the products may not necessarily help increase speed but they certainly ramp up the cool factor (and your spending capabilities). The Danish brand has been absent from Australian shores for a while now but is set to make a return around October.

These Pulley Wheels (or jockey wheels), come in Shimano/SRAM specific or for Campagnolo. With sealed bearings, handmade in Denmark, they are durable and will be able to be swapped to a new bike to keep that feeling of individuality alive. These are crazy expensive but there’s no doubt you have spent money on sillier things in the past. If you feel like going really over the top, CeramicSpeed has started creating jockey wheels which are 3D printed and made from titanium dust. Australian pricing is unavailable for this amazing product but a pair retails for 800 Euros.

Weight: 24g CoSt: TBA (approx $500)

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CeramicSpeed UFO Chain Dura-AcePicture this: you’re fast. You’ve trained hard, smart, and consistently. Your position is perfect. Your clothing and equipment is aero. Your power numbers are good and your bike is light. You are a TT rider who puts everything into the goal of being the fastest but you’re always one step shy of ultimate glory. You come second place by a couple of seconds every time and it’s driving you mad. Where can you save those extra watts to win that next race?

The chain is the answer… apparently. CeramicSpeed has invented a lubricant which it soaks regular branded chains in. CeramicSpeed claims that it saves between two and five watts compared with a chain’s stock standard finish! That seems like money worth spending; however, this magic material is only for very special occasions

as it only lasts about 320 kilometres (dry weather only). UFO stands for Ultra-Fast Optimised so if you’re into optimising speed, it could be your missing ingredient for victory.

(Mechanic’s suggestion: buy a Wipperman 11-speed quick link so the chain can be fitted and removed with ease for the big races. To ensure no chain-skip, buy a secondary cassette exclusively for the ‘UFO’. It will wear at the same rate as the chain for crisp shifting and powerful pedalling.)

Weight: 262g CoSt: TBA (approx. >$150)

Revbox ErgIf you’re looking for something to efficiently increase leg strength then the New Zealand-made Revbox home trainer is the product for you. It is a ‘no frills’ approach to a trainer and will certainly evoke nostalgia from riders who have spent too long on wind trainers like this in the past.

The Revbox can be stored easily as it comes apart with quick-release levers and can be fitted into a carry bag. Because of the 580mm resistance fan (which is what you push), the Revbox is much louder

than other direct drive trainers so your environment must be considered before jumping in and buying one.

As well as improving strength, it is likely that this trainer will enhance your pedalling technique. Whether by accident or design, it does not automatically give you a smooth pedalling circle. Effort needs to be made to make the training session feel more realistic and this will reward the rider once on the road.

CoSt: $1,150 ($170 extra for carry bag)