Excusing the pun above, it has been a good week for exciting new kit. Jon fought with a ton of paperwork and managed to get this Lauf True Grit in through to door. We've also got carbon wheels from Sixth Element, photochromic glasses from Endura, a new design of clip pedals from components brand Funn and some hardy winter boots from 45NRTH.

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Lauf True Grit

Our Jon has already had a ride on the new Lauf True Grit earlier this year as the brand capitalised on the success of their quirky leaf sprung fork with this carbon frame and matching Grit SL fork. Now he's got one at home to put some more miles in on, he says he's "hugely excited to get a bike to ride in the rather different condition of the UK". This bike is the 'Weekend Warrior' spec which will cost around about $4,000 USD depending on any added extras. The bottle opener you see here is standard on all 1x11 bikes you'll be pleased to know.....

• UK pricing TBC
• www.laufforks.com

Funn Ripper Pedals

We took a first look at these new 'Ripper' pedals from Funn back in September at Eurobike. We liked the look of the big pedal platform and knew we'd get on well with adjustable the clip in mechanism as it uses Shimano cleats. These pedals are athlete driven and designed for racing as well as normal trail use. The platform is pretty big, measuring 93mm x100mm x 23 mm, have 4 removable pins (one in each corner) and have a claimed weight of 570g per pair. 

• $149 USD (UK pricing TBC)
• www.funnmtb.com

Sixth Element Carbon Wheels

Hand built in the UK, a set of carbon rims from Sixth Element have been high on our test wish list for a while now. We've got a 27.5" pair in for test which have a 28mm internal rim diameter, an asymmetrical spoke pattern and boost spacing. The set as built here with Hope Pro 4 hubs weighs in at a claimed 1790g and costs £1,090. They've come fully taped and with tubeless valves so with a bit of sealant and a couple of tyres, they'll be good to go - perfect!

• £1090.00
• www.sixthelement.co.uk

VOID Cycling Winter and Armour Kit

VOID Cycling have sent us some things which Benedict will be putting through its paces in what is currently a cold and wintery Scotland. We've received their Armour Bib Shorts and Long Sleeve jersey which are made from a sturdy membrane based windproof fabric to provide protection against the elements. There's also some more dedicated winter clothes comprising the Winter Tights, Softshell Jacket and Winter Glove. This heavy duty kit should see us through the coldest weather and great design details enhance comfort and practicality. We have a first look here. We’ve also got a nice set of merino socks, buff and hat to finish things off. Expectations are high with quality construction, well thought out features and svelte, stylish design. Stay tuned for full reviews soon.

• voidcycling.com

Endura Angel Glasses

The Endura Angel glasses come pretty full of features for just £50, photochromic (and removable) lenses, vented nose piece and 100% UV protection. It's the photochromic lens that adjusts to the light that we are most interested in testing out. Seeing as glasses are now firmly in the 'must wear' category to fend off the winter slop, these will be getting a lot of use. 

• £50
• www.endurasport.com 

45NRTH Japanther Boots

If you are thinking about cycling anywhere cold this winter then you might want to think about a set of water resistant boots like these from 45NRTH. The Japanther's, which are made for use in temperatures ranging from -3 to 7 degrees. They have a moisture resistant membrane and rubberized shell so you can do away with any overboots or shoe covers. 45NRTH say "The Japanther delivers unrivalled weather protection in the changing conditions of the transition season", say the brand.

• £234
• www.45nrth.com

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