KCNC CB1 Brake Callipers
With standard callipers form Shimano and Campagnolo having advanced greatly to offer much better breaking it leave the main reason for upgrading down to weight. Saving weight is where the KCNC Callipers really shine. There design is very distinctive following KCNC’s desire to produce very high quality CNC machined parts.
An exotic mix of aluminium, scandium and titanium has helped to bring the weight right down to around 82g, this brings it right down to around half of the DuraAce calliper. They have quite a unique pivot system to allow equal breaking on each side as well as a quick release leaver to allow you to get the heels out fast.
The breaking performance does seem adequate in both the wet and dry but they are missing a bit of bite when breaking very hard. They do also have quite a lot of visible flex but this is the trade off for saving the weight.
Overall a good set of very light breaks available for around £169.99 but they do need looking at regularly to keep them working at their best.
Altura Reflex Windproof jacket
The Reflex range from Altura are quickly becoming the commuters favourite the windproof jacket is no exception. It is designed to be lightweight and breathable but the Windtex panels are placed to keep the cold wind and rain out.
Pulling this jacket on you realise that it feels like a high end jacket where extra care has gone into the ergonomic fit. It has elastic panels to allow it to move no mater what position you are in. It has good amount of space where needed around the shoulders but cut well to give an overall snug feel.
It has a lot of bonus features including a low tail, high collar, back pockets and a third zipper for valuable items. A silicone hem helps keep those cold drafts out too. The reflective shoulder panels defiantly make it a good choice for commuting. It is available for around £89 in five sizes and colours including blue, black or grey.