This article was first published in the May 2016 issue of WIRED magazine. Be the first to read WIRED's articles in print before they're posted online, and get your hands on loads of additional content by subscribing online.
Open U.P.
Engineered to accept two wheel sizes (650b and 700c), the award-winning U.P. (Unbeaten Path) is a true category killer. Built with relaxed road geometry, it can be ridden like a street bike by adding 28mm slicks; switch to knobbly 30mm cross tyres to race or "gravel grind"; and even throw on a pair of 2.1-inch mountain bike tyres for pretty much any other terrain you have the energy to take on.
One clever feature on the U.P. is the asymmetric chainstay, which allows a hefty off-road tyre to sit in what is at its core a spirited road frame. The result: one bike to ride them all. €2,900 (frame and fork only)
Rapha's all-weather kit has been designed around a dense-woven fabric that is twice DWR-coated (durable water repellent). This makes it near-waterproof while retaining breathability. £220 (jersey); £260 (shorts)
SIDI DOMINATOR 5
The benchmark off-road racing shoe features a fast-drying synthetic microfibre upper. The sole of the Sidi Dominator 5s can take toe studs for grip in muddy conditions. £135
OCTAL AVIP MIPS HELMET
POC's award-winning road lid uses the latest industry safety standard MIPS (multi-directional impact protection system). €360https://www.pocsports.com/
This article was originally published by WIRED UK
