Owen's Recommendations
Since riding from such a young age, I've built up my selection of 'go-to's'. Whether I'm Enduro racing or taking on some big mountain Alpine bike-packing adventures, these selections are my absolute essentials that help me out on whatever terrain I'm riding on.
1 Troy Lee Designs A1 Mips MTB Cycling Helmet
“The most comfortable helmet I’ve ever owned. Plenty of adjustments and very well balanced. Stays in place over very rough terrain but is also comfortable all day on long epic rides. When it’s time to replace, I’d be interested in the new A3 but it will be hard to part from the A2.”
2 100% Brisker Cold Weather Long Finger MTB Cycling Gloves
“The perfect year-round glove? The Brisker is loved by many for its versatility. The insulating softshell outer is perfect for when the sun dips below the horizon and during the shoulder seasons. They also do a surprisingly good job in the winter, not waterproof but great at shrugging off showers.”
3 Endura BaaBaa Merino Cycling Socks - 2-Pack
“Merino wool is a bit of a wonder material, it regulates heat, stays warm when wet and is really comfortable. These go on if it's an enduro race or a multi-day ride. With two pairs in the pack and great value, they’re a no-nonsense bit of kit for every ride.”
4 DMR Vault Pedals
“I had settled on a pair of Nukeproof pedals but recently tried the legendary Vaults, and these will now be my go-to pedals. The grip is phenomenal, and the bearings run very smooth with easy servicing. You can't go wrong with such a large range of colours.”
5 Renthal Fatbar Lite - Version 2 MTB Handlebar
“To me, Renthal bars are essential, I've used them for many years, and they just fit my body and riding style perfectly. The upsweep and back sweep are comfortable and give me confident control on any terrain.”
6 Troy Lee Designs Skyline MTB Cycling Shorts
“I’ve had a pair of these for years, another piece of kit that just works. Snagged on a fence about 3 years ago and the hole refuses to tear through the fabric, performing as well today as when they were first worn. Available with or without a liner, but the liner has become a favourite of mine too.”
7 Ergon GA2 MTB Grips
“After trying loads of grips until I settled on these. There is a slight taper toward the inside, this gives the feeling of being in the bike and for me, they are really comfortable relieving pressure on my wrists and palms. They’re also good in any weather and wear well with a pair lasting a good while.”
8 Topeak Mini 20 Pro Multi Tool
“Glad I found this tool a few years ago, it's small, well made and easy to use. Every tool you could need is on there, including a good chain break. It's resistant to rust and comes in a neat neoprene pouch that protects any items around it and stops any rattling.”
9 Five Ten Freerider MTB Shoes
“The venerable Freerider. Well known for a reason, Five Ten rubber grips so well. There's a shoe to suit most riding styles but the Freerider stays on most of the year, they feel like your favourite skate shoe off the bike and then perform excellently on the trail. After four years and many miles, it's almost time for a new pair and I’ll be straight back to another pair of Five Tens.”
10 Specialized Zee Cage II Side Loading Right
“Not the most glamorous product, but it simply works. Every bike has one or more of these on. The Zee is available in left or right sided, are low profile, and sit low on the mounts so you can squeeze a large bottle in a tight frame.
For rough terrain and enduro racing, its never let a bottle out of its grasp.”
