Coast HP314 Focusing LED Flashlight

How do you improve upon such a beast of a flashlight? Well, if distance is your thing, the Long Range Focusing Optic System is your new best friend. A ridiculously deep lens with an egg-shaped protuberance in the middle, this monster throws its beam an astounding 2,240 feet! It does have a pretty impressive Broad View Flood Beam as well, but it’s the long end that’s going to have everyone talking. To continue the comparison against the HP21, the run time on high has been nearly doubled, from 2 hours, 15 minutes to 4 hours, 15 minutes. By cutting the low setting down to 95 lumens, which is still plenty bright for closer work, a set of four batteries will last up to 192 hours. A new strobe setting with varying flash rates has been programmed as well. And Coast still includes a set of Duracell batteries to get you started. There’s also the same fitted case, shoulder strap, belt loop, and a new rubber bezel and tail cap.

Although we’ve been comparing it to the HP21, that’s probably not accurate, since the actual design has changed significantly.  They may share similar features, but the bulb selection and lens design are completely different, making the changes a huge evolutionary step. Of course, comparisons are inevitable, so we’ll break it down for you. Overall length is up almost two inches, to a 17.12 inches. With that length comes a nearly imperceptible increase to 3.1 pounds. A slightly larger bezel, now 3.35 inches, houses the Speed Focus lens, which still operates in a push-pull manner for ease of use and low maintenance. A quick test indicated that at the widest setting, the HP314 has a somewhat narrower flood beam than the HP21, but not enough to make any practical difference.

The HP314 includes a fitted case

Despite having an extended testing period, we haven’t come up with a way to visually demonstrate just how impressive the HP314 is. Taking a photo of something over 2,000 feet away at night probably isn’t sufficient. So we ran it through a couple of likely scenarios future owners might use it for. Ideal for security work, it completely illuminated the unlit employee parking lot in the back of a strip mall from a full two blocks away. Win. Spotting deer in nearby Provo Canyon just after sunset was as simple as sweeping the hillside for a reflection from their eyes, then zooming in to light them up. Win. Illuminating a fairly wide ravine from above while on an overnight camping trip. Win. For search and rescue work, it’s the next best thing to a helicopter. Speaking of which, we were checking out how visible the beam was during a rare evening when we had a bit of humidity. Shining it into the air just a few miles from a municipal airport, we realized that the beam distance is more twice that of the altitude of incoming planes. I mentioned the HP21 should be handled like a weapon, and the HP314 is no different – you really do need to be careful where you point it.

Coast has already gotten favorable comments from high performance flashlight enthusiasts, security personnel, and even personal defense and tactical publications. Their optics offer bright, even lighting, good ergonomics, excellent build quality and finish, plus lifetime warranty on materials and workmanship. If you need a massively powerful light that’s not terrible expensive, highly portable, and comparatively easy on batteries, then Coast has another winner for you. coastportland.com

- Brian

Violent or damaging disorder; chaos

High Sierra Mayhem

After spending several weeks with the High Sierra Mayhem backpack, I’ve decided that the name may actually be a bit misleading. This roomy, expandable backpack has plenty of interior and exterior pockets and storage options, allowing you to stay quite organized. Large external pockets on either side are big enough for 12 ounce drinks or a standard bicycle water bottle if tilted at an angle, or a couple of sandwiches side by side. For quick access, there’s a large pouch on the front too. Just inside, you’ll find a place to keep all your small items organized, with open slots for things like business cards, a pocket with a velcro flap, skinny sleeve-style pockets for writing utensils, and a fob to hang your keys from. Next compartment in could still swallow a laptop inside a sleeve or thin case, but that’s not even the biggest one. The back compartment is roomy enough for oddly shaped items, such as my morning grapefruit and oversized water bottle. It’s also the where you’ll find the TECH SPOT, which is comprised of a padded sleeve (with frame-sheet) that can safely hold a 17 inch laptop, and a smaller area for readers and tablets. Up top, a small zippered compartment keeps your glasses fairly safe.

With all that capacity, a pack needs to be comfortable, which comes from a combination of good design/materials, and some adjustability. The shoulder straps offer a fair bit of width at the neck, which is appreciated by big guys like me. The padding is adequate, and the HEX-VENT mesh adds visual and tactile interest, while helping to keep things cool on hot days. Adjusting the straps is as simple as pulling up on the buckles or down on the rings at the end. That allowed it to be worn over a motorcycle jacket while commuting to work, and then over a t-shirt while riding my bicycle around town. Although I didn’t find a need to use the adjustable compression straps on either side, they’re a nice touch. Speaking of which, the reflective loop for your blinkie light is a welcome feature too.

When using it as a daily pack for school or work, there’s more than enough room to fit the essentials. It securely held my 15.6 inch laptop, plus had room for an iPad or Kindle, cords, cables, headphones, snacks, lunch, a really big (32 ounce) water bottle, and analog devices like pens, pencils, and even notepads. Packing for a weekend away, it will accommodate a change of summer clothes and the necessary toiletries to keep hair clean, teeth shiny, and your body smelling nice. Over the course of nearly two months, it went back and forth with me to work almost daily, and Ms. Outsider used it for weekends at her friends. We both appreciated the flexibility if offered us, as it’s sized right for every day use, but still generous enough for trips that don’t end at a school or office. At first glance, the zippers and other hardware may not seem like the most durable available, but she’s been dragging a smaller version of this backpack to school for an entire school year, and it’s held up to the abuse of a teenager that’s a bit rough on gear. We feel High Sierra represents a good value, made even better when you catch them on sale. Look for a review of some of their outdoor packs coming soon. highsierra.com

- Brian

The Brentwood

Bern specializes in helmets for non-motorized sports. Although they offers models for winter and water sports, we’re sticking to the cycling helmets for this article. They offer high quality with plenty of style and innovative features, and pricing as low as $60. This is one of those cases where you get more than you pay for. Take the Watts, for example. Skate inspired, it’s a thin ABS shell wrapped around an EPS foam core. There’s a small visor built in, the liner is interchangeable, and it’s fully adjustable for a good fit. Available in small to XL, there are nearly a dozen color options to choose from. If you’ve got the coin to go a bit upscale, the Brentwood starts at $80, and boasts nice touches like channels for both airflow and your glasses. For cold weather commuters, swap in the extra cozy winter liner, available separately. While there are only nine color choices, sizes go all the way up to XXXL. In addition, Bern offers women their own helmet line, which includes the Brighton, Lenox, and Berkeley. Sizing is smaller, colors and graphics are more feminine, but the features, styling, and protection are held to the same high standards as the men’s models. Pricing runs $60-$80. bernunlimited.com

POC Receptor

POC is a Swedish company that makes helmets for cycling as well as skiing and boarding. Think of them as the Volvo of cycling helmets, but not the stodgy 240D, more like the current high performance turbo and crossover vehicles. (Check out the amazing POC Bike Excursion video with trials rider Danny MacAskill here) They understand that the pace at which sports are advancing means that athletes are going faster, farther, and higher. With that comes the increased risk of injury. And while it’s still up to individuals to know their limits, POC mixes materials and design in an effort to reduce the likelihood of injury, should things to wrong. All their research and technology into head protection for extreme sports has trickled down to n0-compromise commuter models too. To that end, they offer their Receptor Commuter helmet. The Receptor combines a durable outer shell with an impact-absorbing liner. Other features include an anti-odor treatment (Polygiene) and magnetic buckle. It’s neither as light or as ventilated as a racing helmet, but more suited to urban cycling. Color choices are limited to black or white, but sizing options range from extra small to two XXLarge. Expect to pay around $120. pocsports.com

- Brian

Serfas Mini Tools With CO2 Inflator

Serfas ST-13i Mini Tool

Despite its compact size, the $36 ST-13i manages to offer 13 different functions. A U-shaped piece of steel is folded over, forming the base for this tool, with the CO2 inflator at one end, and the various other bits lined up in two rows on the opposite end. You’ll find 1.5, 2,3,4,5, and 6mm keys taking up one side, with a bottle opener/flat blade screwdriver keeping them company. The remaining Torx 25 and 30, along with the phillips screwdriver and 8mm allen key, fold out from the other side. Being so compact could be a disadvantage on fasteners that require plenty of torque, but that’s a plus when dealing with carbon fiber that can be damaged if overtightened. Given the choice, this is the one I’d be most inclined to carry.

Serfas ST-15i

Moving up in features is the ST-15i, which is the largest of the trio, mostly due to the inclusion of a pair of tire levers, one on each side. This has the same tools as the ST-13i, less the bottle opener. That pair of tire levers count as a single function. A handy hinged compartment stores three glueless patches, and a square of sandpaper, which count as two. But you won’t feel short-changed the first time you have to patch a tube that’s got some talc, as the sandpaper may make the difference between the patch sticking, or you walking home. As the bulkiest of the bunch, it’s not my favorite, but it does allow you to really tighten down bolts when necessary. I seem to gravitate towards rims that run large and tires that run small (in diameter), and break more than my fair share of levers. The included ones also have sharper edges than you would want to give a ham-fisted operator like myself, but if your tires aren’t overly tight to the rim, and you’re patient when changing flats, then having some tools, levers, and a CO2 inflator all in one place is probably worth the weight. Looking at it that way, the MSRP of $40 is pretty reasonable too.

Serfas ST-17i Mini Tool

Boasting the most functions and highest price, the ST-17i has 17 features and a $45 MSRP. That gets you 2,4,5,6, and 8mm allen keys, 25 and 30 Torx, both screwdrivers, a chain cutter, chain retainers, as well as 3.23, 3.3, 3.45, and 3.96mm, spoke wrenches and the CO2 inflator in a package not much larger than the 13, and about about 2/3 the size of the 15. Squeezing a chain cutter into such a compact tool requires a bit of dexterity use. The handle is flat, and one of the retainers will get overly friendly with your thumb. But if you need one in a pinch, this will get the job done. Using the CO2 is easier if you unscrew the handle for the chain cutter out of the way (it locks in position via a well-placed magnet). Once out, and you’ve also got an emergency spoke wrench.

None of these are intended to replace full-size tools. They’re for quick adjustments and road/trail side repairs, and at that, they work as advertised, without being so big or weighing so much that you’re tempted to leave them at home. Serfas seems to have found a good balance between features, ergonomics, and price. And honestly, the CO2 inflator is not only a functional addition, but the color is eye-catching, and seems to make them a bit more desirable. Your friends may be envious, even as they watch you fix your ride.

Serfas.com

- Brian

- Brian

Boulder, CO, USA – June, 2013 – In 1904, the founder of the Tour de France lamented, “The Tour is finished. It has died of its success, of the blind passions that it unleashed, the abuse and the dirty suspicions.” Now as the Tour achieves its 100th edition this month, Tour de France 100 celebrates the world’s greatest sporting spectacle.

Tour de France 100 is a featured sports book in Barnes & Noble bookstores this June and July and is also available in bookstores, bike shops, and online. Beginning June 20, celebrate the 100th Tour de France with a rare and restored Tour de France photograph each day at www.TDF100.com.

The Tour de France, first staged in 1903, is the world’s greatest sports spectacle, packed with heart-stopping drama, legendary rivalries, bitter tragedy, and outright farce. In its 100 runnings-the race was interrupted twice by war-it has cast its spotlight on some of the greatest athletes of all time, who fought their way across France’s magnificent landscape in pursuit of victory and the yellow jersey worn by the Tour’s overall leader.

In Tour de France 100, award-winning journalist Richard Moore celebrates all that is great, fantastic, amusing, outrageous, and overwhelming in the Tour through illuminating text and a cascade of defining images from the race’s extraordinary history.

Tour de France 100

Vividly reproduced photos abound of heroes of the race, from pioneers like Octave Lapize and Eugène Christophe-first to wear the yellow jersey-to legendary warriors like Eddy Merckx and Miguel Indurain. The great battles-Fausto Coppi versus Gino Bartali, Greg LeMond versus Bernard Hinault-are richly told, as is the shocking death of Tom Simpson and the controversial disgrace of Lance Armstrong. And the high drama of the modern era, represented by super-sprinter Mark Cavendish and the droll Bradley Wiggins, is fully covered as well.

There is nothing else that compares to the Tour, and Tour de France 100 is a superb celebration, as well as a keepsake of the Tour’s 100th edition that will be treasured by all cyclists and bike racing fans.

Tour de France 100: A Photographic History of the World’s Greatest Race
Richard Moore
Hardcover with jacket. 250 b&w and color photographs throughout.
11″ x 12 1/2″, 224 pp., $34.95, 9781937715069

Richard Moore is a sports journalist and author. His first book, In Search of Robert Millar, won Best Biography at the 2008 British Sports Book Award. His second book, Heroes, Villains and Velodromes, was long-listed for the William Hill Sports Book of the Year. Outside magazine named Slaying the Badger one of the ten best cycling books of all time. Moore writes on cycling and sport and is a regular contributor to the Guardian, Sky Sports, and the Scotsman. He is also a former racing cyclist who represented Scotland at the 1998 Commonwealth Games.

VeloPress publishes books on cycling, triathlon, and running to help beginners and committed athletes build fitness and achieve their goals. VeloPress celebrates the icons of endurance sports through history books, biographies, memoirs, and photography books. For more information, please visit www.velopress.com.

GSI Outdoors Destination Kitchen Set 24

Weighing just 28.2 ounces, this kit has all the essentials for prep, seasoning, serving, eating, and even cleaning up. Cutting and dicing in advance is a nice time saver, but a knife and cutting board are included if you’re starting with whole foods. A little cheese grater is complemented by a Pivot Spoon that’s nice and deep, plus a Pivot Spatula with one serrated edge, both of which have handles that rotate around for easy storage. Whipping up some scrambled eggs, or mixing ingredients in a bowl? There’s a collapsible whisk for that. Speaking of ingredients, there are two refillable foil-type condiment containers, and a small spicer that’s a fancy version of the two-liter bottle cap one which is so popular with minimalists. Up to four lucky campers can enjoy your gourmet meal using the included cutlery set, and when it’s time to clean up, the scrubber and towel come in handy. All that fits inside a compact 11.70″ x 7.70″ x 3.50″ case.

According to The Outdoor Foundation’s American Camper Report, camping is on the rise in the United States. Although this could be due to a variety of reasons, such as higher overall vacation costs, and less time available away from work, we’d like to think that simply enjoying time outdoors with family and friends is a major contributing factor. And while hiking and backpacking are certainly going strong, our visits to the Outdoor Retailer shows certainly reinforce the concept of “not roughing it” for many people. Products like this are exactly the thing that makes enjoying car camping or even a cabin stay that much better. There’s nothing in the kit that you couldn’t purchase separately yourself, but GSI Outdoors has combined them all into one handy carrying case that takes up little room. I love to cook, and given the time, would much rather prepare at least part of our meal in a pan over a fire, rather than just adding hot water to a bag of dehydrated food, no matter how good it’s become lately.

We’ve had the opportunity to try out a variety of products from GSI Outdoors and have yet to be disappointed. From backpackers that need to watch every ounce in their packs to car campers that are looking for convenience and versatility, or even setting up a base camp for a larger gathering, you can easily find just about every item you need to prepare and serve delicious meals, which are that much better with a side of fresh air. gsioutdoors.com

- Brian

Stongback Elite

First up is the Strongback Elite. This 11.9 pound folding chair has lumbar support as its key feature. There’s also a handy drink holder, and nicely padded arm rests. Steel tubing with an attractive silver powder coat forms a sturdy foundation that can handle up to 300 pounds. Available in navy/black, lime green/grey, forest green/brown, black/silver, or genuine Real Tree™ camo, durable 600D polyester assures that your significant investment will provide years of use.

If you’ve got back problems (or want to avoid them), the lumbar support is fantastic. This chair should easily provide all-day comfort for the majority of users. Not having the drink holder built into the end of the armrest increases that comfort as well, since you get to enjoy the full length padding with either arm. The base itself is not too deep, which is sometimes an issue for shorter folks. Two of our volunteers, who admittedly were perfectly comfortable in the $6 chair we brought along, advised that they couldn’t fathom paying for a chair this expensive. But those with a history of back trouble, or perhaps accustomed to sitting a bit more during the day, felt that the price was more than fair for the comfort it provided. (The 7.7 pound Zen offers the same lumbar support in a $45.95 chair) It was almost universally agreed that the shoulder straps on the carry bag could benefit from a bit more padding, and that it would still only be comfortable to carry that way for a very short trip. Conclusion: if long-term sitting comfort matters most, this may be your top pick.

Kelsyus Canopy Chair

Next is the Original Canopy Chair from Kelsyus. The Kelsyus packaging claims a weight of 10.5 pounds, while the website puts it at 12 pounds even. Also underpinned by a powder coated frame, there’s a bit less steel in this chair, as some of that weight is the canopy and its folding mechanism. That brings the max weight down to 250 pounds, which should still be plenty. In addition to the drink holder on the right armrest, we found the slotted mesh on the left perfect for a phone or MP3 player. There are also mesh pockets in the overhead canopy, for even more storage. It’s available in green or blue.

Despite the canopy being the main feature that separates this chair from others, many people stated that they would prefer to just wear a hat. Of course, with the sun directly overhead, more of your body is covered by the canopy, which provides a UV protection factor (UPF) of 50+. That gave the canopy its share of fans. Since it can fold away when not needed, we’ll call it a wash. Love it or hate it, everyone agreed that the shoulder straps attached to the canopy were an absolute win. Fold the chair, buckle the upper and lower buckles, and wear it like a backpack. Sure, that’s a lot of bulk, but even some of our more finicky testers admitted that they found it comfortable, and that no reasonable walking distance was too far once it was properly adjusted. (Note the Kelsyus also carries a backpack chair without the canopy, but it sits a bit lower) Conclusion: if you need to carry your chair any distance, and the canopy option is appealing, this is a great alternative to a regular camp chair.

For an outdoor concert, sports meet/game, or any other event that only lasts a couple of hours or less, the Canopy Chair would probably be our first choice. If we had to pick a chair for several days at a camp site, the Elite would be our go-to, as the lumbar support really makes a difference over longer periods. We don’t think you can go wrong with either, but each has an advantage under certain conditions.

We’d like to thank Strongback and Kelsyus for providing the chairs for this comparison, as well as all our friends, family, and neighbors that kindly volunteered to try them out and offer their opinions.

- Brian

Detours Slice Top Tube Bag

With my upcoming 400k Brevet on June 22^nd and The 508 in October, most weekends are going to have training rides well over the century mark.  Rides this long require a little more planning and also require me to carry more food and supplies.  There is only so much room in jersey pockets.  Besides, I find overstuffed jersey pockets to be annoying.  Because of this, I’ve recently been making good use of the extra storage space provided by The Slice Top Tube Bag from Detours.

This bag, as advertised, is perfectly sized to hold plenty of gels to keep you going. In fact, I just stuffed 8 Honey Stinger gels in there with room to spare.  As an added bonus, the placement of the bag on the top-tube keeps the food within easy reach. My normal loading of the bag, however, is more for assurance that I’m not going to be stranded a long, long way from home.  I’ve been filling my Slice with extra extras.  I use the bag to house a second spare tube, a patch kit, 3 additional gels, my ID and credit card, some cash, and my house key which is held securely on the internal key clip.

Detours Slice Top Tube Bag

The bag is also a great alternative to traditional saddle bags.  The long narrow shape of the Detours Slice Top Tube Bag allows it to house items that are hard to fit in many saddle bags.  This is especially true in regards to longer, narrow items such as many smart phones.  The bag easily holds an iPhone, spare tube, patch kit, key, CO2, and multi-tool.  In addition, the bag being on the top tube guarantees that its straps won’t wear on your shorts like some Velcro saddle bag straps have been known to do.

The mounting is simple yet secure.  A Velcro strap on the bottom of the bag wraps around the top tube, while an elastic cord wraps under the stem around the steerer/head tube.  Additionally, I found that with my internal cable routing, the bag could even be mounted upside down as a wedge in my frame.  Not that this is necessary, but it does mean I could add a second bag if I wanted.  It also gives a different aesthetic, and acts to somewhat camouflage the bag for a sleeker look, if that kind of thing is important to you.

So whether you are going long, need a little extra storage, or simply like the idea of a top tube bag as opposed to a saddle bag, give this one a serious look.  You can purchase it directly from the Detours website.  With its storage capability and ease of use still coming in at a price of under 20 bucks, The Slice Top Tube Bag begs the question, “Who couldn’t use one?”

- Alex (Steak Sauce)

Gerber Daily Carry

Gerber’s GDC (Gerber Daily Carry) line includes handy little tools you’re likely to use every day. With a short lanyard a tiny buckle, these little tools, at about one ounce each, are ideal for hanging from a zipper or strap. A rotating wheel houses four screwdrivers on the Zip Driver, or five allen wrenches on the Zip Hex. The Zip Light has offers a bright LED plus a bottle opener. There’s also a Zip Blade, Hook Knife, and Tech Skin Pocket Knife. Retail for each is around $12, so you can probably get a couple without breaking the bank. Some of them are sold out on the Gerber website, but you may still find them at your local retailer.

Bear Grylls Survival Bracelet

An interesting take on the old paracord bracelet, the Bear Grylls Survival Bracelet (MSRP $16) is adjustable, and includes a whistle. The odds of most people using that cord in an emergency are very low, but it’s nice to be prepared. Of course, any dad will tell you that a whistle comes in handy when rounding up the troops, or calling the dogs to come in. So having one on your wrist wouldn’t be a bad thing.  Just in case, each bracelet also includes a copy of Bear Grylls “Priorities of Survival” Pocket Guide, which can help you in a pinch.

Bear Grylls Survival Series Grandfather Knife

Another interpretation of a classic, the Bear Grylls Survival Series Grandfather Knife includes a 2.75 inch blade, both flat and phillips screwdrivers, a corkscrew, bottle opener, and small file. A lanyard ring on the end helps prevent it from getting lost on hikes and fishing excursions. In the past, this style of pocket knife typically had a wood inlay for the handle, and that’s been updated to a modern rubber molding that provides better grip. Neither giant nor tiny, the overall length is under four inches when closed, making it the perfect size for dads as well as sons. MSRP is only $32, and if it’s taken care of, it could actually be passed down from father to son.

Gerber Outrigger

Everyone that spends any time outdoors should own a pocket knife, whether they’re out hiking and camping, or just working in the yard. It doesn’t even need to be fancy or expensive, as long as it covers the basics. At least once a day, I use mine. I get packages delivered to work all the time. There’s always a few bills waiting in the mailbox for me when I get home. When working around the yard, something always needs cutting, whether it’s weed cloth, twine, irrigation tubing, or cutting into a bag of mulch. The Outrigger has a 3.0 inch, fine edge blade, aluminum frame, and rubber handle. Opens with one hand thanks to the Assisted Opening 2.0 technology, and the Plunge Lock closes with your thumb, for added safety. There’s a clip for pocket carry too. Everything you need, and nothing you don’t, in an affordable (MSRP $49) knife for daily carry.

These are just a few examples of what you’ll find on the Gerber site. To view their entire product line, head over to gerbergear.com, and check them out. They’re all backed by Gerber’s Lifetime Warranty too.

- Brian

APPLETON, WI – June, 2013 – As enduro racing continues its meteoric rise in the United States, Precision Travel Werx is sponsoring one of the country’s biggest racing series, Big Mountain Enduro.

Precision Travel Werx

Precision Travel Werx is supporting the series with a pair of Atlas 8 sport cargo trailers, one for race organizers to use throughout the season as a bike and equipment hauler, and the other as a grand prize for the winner of the overall series men’s Masters category. The overall points winner in Big Mountain Enduro’s most crowded class will receive a voucher at the finale in Moab Sept. 28-29 for a trailer custom painted to match their vehicle of choice.

“When we learned about the Big Mountain Enduro series we knew it was a perfect fit for the Atlas 8 with it’s bike-carrying capabilities and perfect design for a weekend of camping at a race,” said Larry Brown, founder and president of Precision Travel Werx. “We were thrilled with the idea of offering a custom Atlas 8 as a prize and we’re hoping the Masters racers battle it out for the top spot!”

The five-race series hosts events in New Mexico, Colorado and Utah beginning at Angel Fire/Taos on June 15-16 and finishing in Moab on Sept. 28-29. The Moab stop, as well as a July event in Keystone, Colo. are part of the North American Enduro Series.

“The Atlas 8 is a perfect fit for the adventurous lifestyle we all live; from the obvious and frequent bike and ski trips, traveling to events with an abundance of equipment and partaking in ongoing trail projects across the Rocky Mountain region,” said Big Mountain Enduro President Brandon Ontiveros. “The trailer is durable, efficient and superior to any other traveling trailer meant to be pulled behind lightweight vehicles.”

With a resin transfer molded fiberglass body on an aluminum frame, the Atlas 8 has an empty weight of 550lbs., making it easy for anyone to move or reposition the trailer and allowing it to be towed by almost any vehicle on the road. Total cargo capacity is 1,000 lbs., for a total gross axle weight rating of 1,550 lbs.

An optional Yakima rack system on top can support multiple bikes while maintaining access to the cargo space using a gas-shock assisted lid.

Precision Travel Werx is based in Appleton, Wisc. and manufactured in the USA. For more information or to contact Precision Travel Werx directly, visit www.PrecisionTravelWerx.com.

Precision Travel Werx

About Precision Travel Werx

The idea for Precision Travel Werx – formerly Road Warrior Sports – was born in 2005 out of a desire to maintain a spontaneous road-trip lifestyle even as life became more complicated with jobs and families. Balancing the need to put down roots with the desire to remain in motion, Precision Travel Werx is committed to providing sport trailers suitable for almost any vehicle on the road that make it possible to take it all – families, hobbies, passions and the gear for epic adventures – with you. For more information, visit www.PrecisionTravelWerx.com.

Boulder, CO — After months of preparation, Polar Bottle has finally unveiled the 2013 Commemorative USA Pro Cycling Challenge Custom Water Bottle.

The new bottle design, which maps the race from the start in Aspen, CO to finish in Denver, was finalized earlier this year after race organizers officially announced the 7-stage race route.

“We were all so eager to know the route so we could get the 2013 bottle finalized,” said Polar Bottle President Judy Amabile. “It was really fun to work with race organizers and watch the design come together. The bottle turned out great.”

2013 USA Pro Cycling Challenge Polar Bottle

Polar Bottle became the official bottle of the USA Pro Cycling Challenge last year — signing a 2-year sponsorship contract with race organizers. The 2013 Commemorative Bottle, which is now for sale on the Polar Bottle website and will soon be sold at stores around the country, is one of six designs included in the USA Pro Cycling Challenge bottle line.

The patented Polar Bottle water bottle features an insulating layer between two walls of plastic, so it keeps liquids cool twice as long as other water bottles. The Made in America bottle fits standard bike water bottle cages and features a convenient, removable carrying strap. Like all Polar Bottle products, the USA Pro Cycling Challenge bottles are BPA-free and Phthalate-free.

There are two things that avid anglers, boaters or outdoorsmen need from a pair of sunglasses – superior glare-cutting performance and protection that stands up to an array of dangers found on the water and in the Great Outdoors.  The new polarized WX Saint from eyewear innovator Wiley X, Inc. delivers on both, with the added versatility of optional lenses to suit
multiple activities.

Wiley X WX Saint

At the heart of the new Polarized WX Saint is Wiley X’s shatterproof, smoke green-tinted lenses featuring advanced Filter 8™ polarizing technology.  The glare-cutting performance and versatile tint of these lenses allow anglers to “read” the water and make out things like drop-offs, grass beds, rocks and structure under a wide variety of light conditions.  This same ability to see contrast through the water helps anglers spot fish, whether it’s a river trout rising to flies, a bass hanging under a dock, a bonefish prowling the flats or a school of dorado on a weed line.  Wiley X’s advanced polarization, in combination with 100-percent UV protection, also makes the Polarized WX Saint an ideal sunglass choice for a range of activities on or off the water, from power boating and sailing to hiking and camping.

Superior on-water vision is only part of the WX Saint story.  These glasses meet stringent ANSI Z87.1 High Velocity and High Mass Impact Safety standards, providing fishermen, boaters and outdoorsmen with occupational grade eye protection.  Wiley X is the only premium sunglass brand with this level of protection on every pair of glasses it makes.  The new WX Saint goes even further, meeting the updated MIL-PRF-32432 (GL) MCEP Standard  (superseding the GL-PD 10-12 MCEP Standard) for military protective eyewear.  This means that outdoorsmen can take on any challenge, confident their eyes are protected against everything from flying hooks, sinkers and lures to airborne debris to low-hanging branches.

All this vision and protection is provided in a lightweight, comfortable Gloss Black frame ideal for Small to Medium sized faces.  A soft, rubberized nose bridge and temple grips provide a comfortable, secure fit even during high-action activities.   The WX Saint’s Changeable Series half-frame design also gives users the ability to exchange lenses with a variety of available optional Wiley X lenses, for true multi-sport versatility.

Like many Wiley X models, the WX Saint is RX-ready, making it an ideal “no compromise” solution for outdoor enthusiasts who require corrective lenses.

Wiley X

To learn more about new Polarized WX Saint Changeable Series sunglasses – or the company’s extensive line of premium protective eyewear products for outdoor sports, work or everyday wear – visit Wiley X, Inc. online at www.wileyx.com.

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Igloo Yukon 70

Designed to be the most durable cooler for the toughest environments, the Yukon™ series are professional grade, with features to match. Keeping ice for up to seven days requires serious insulation, so the lid contains a full three inches, and the rest of the body has two. In addition, it utilizes Igloo’s Cool Riser Technology™ on the underside, which helps prevent heat from the ground, a truck bed, or boat deck from being transferred to the cooler, at the same time allowing air to flow underneath. All that insulation, plus the rotational-molded polyethylene shell add up to a 36.4 pound weight in the 70 quart model. Rope handles wouldn’t cut it once it’s loaded, so Igloo molded in handles on either side. They are sized to accommodate the largest of hands, even with gloves, and since they’re integrated into the cooler, can be used as an attachment point for tie-downs. If security is an issue, there are two locking points on the front corners of the lid.

Since we didn’t have any epic trips planned, we figured the best way to test the Yukon was to throw a party. We loaded it up with ice and beverages, which it kept cold as expected. But we waited several days before draining it. Not surprisingly, there was still plenty of ice four days later. Emptying it via the huge drain plug was simple enough, and the short chain pretty much ensures the plug doesn’t get lost. Although that doesn’t sound like a concern in your driveway, while on a boat or in the middle of nowhere, that feature is most appreciated. We found the latches to be sturdy, yet could be undone by smaller hands, and although we didn’t need the integrated fish scale (molded in measuring tool) on the lid, we found that it make a fine seat for up to three small children.

While we didn’t do any scientific testing regarding internal temperatures, and couldn’t find a bear to thrash it, we’re confident in Igloo’s claims for both durability and keeping ice. The handles made it easy to lift and transport, and the drain plug made emptying a snap. During our review period, we left the reversible skids on the anti-skid side, but being able to flip them over for easier sliding is a nice touch. If you want a cooler that will “outhaul, outchill, and outlast” all the others, this is it.

Igloo Marine Ultra

If the Yukon series is a bit much for your needs, don’t fret. Igloo offers several cooler bags that will keeps things cold over multi-day adventures. We took their Marine Ultra™ SS for  a test drive on a road trip. Although it’s clearly marketed towards fishermen, our rental car was something of a boat compared to our usual economy cars, so let’s roll with it.

This 36 can cooler loads easily, and includes handles as well as a detachable shoulder strap. A generous front pocket has room for your phone, keys, and more. We managed to fit four camping plates and plastic ware, plus some napkins, with space to spare. Other noteworthy features include an exterior treatment that offers both UV protection and resists mildew. Inside, the liner repels stains and odors, in addition to being anti-microbial.

At around 4AM , we packed our soft cooler full of ice and non-alcoholic beverages, zipped it shut, buckled the lid down, and hit the road. When we stopped for a late lunch, everything was still icy, icy cold. Arriving at our destination some time after 6 PM, the remaining drinks were just as cold. The following afternoon, after a bit of hiking around Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs, we decided to see how well the 1.1″ foam managed to keep our remaining drinks cold. While most of the ice cubes were now slivers floating in chilly water, our Gatorade and ice tea where still refreshingly cold, a full 36 hours later. Cool indeed.

Either of these coolers would make great Father’s Day gifts. If your dad is exceptionally deserving, we highly recommend filling them with his beverage of choice. That’s  a generous touch which will surely be appreciated. See them and more at www.igloocoolers.com

- Brian

Mountainsmith Haze 50 backpack

At 50 liters, the single top load compartment with the dual front panel pockets has all the storage capacity necessary for most seasonal adventures. A top load compartment includes a cinch cord storm collar and has a dust cover to keep your gear from getting wet. There are two side mesh panels that will easily hold water bottles, flashlights, snacks, or other accessories. Between the front panel pockets there is a daisy chain to hang items on. There are two tool loops to take your hatchet for stow and go. The suspension support system is well designed; their ICS Cup (Iliac Crest Shelf) belt allows the pack to sit snugly on your hips and the Lumbar Control Point brings the weight in towards your lower back. On the trail, this makes a noticeable difference. The Haze may appear pretty basic, but it does what its designed to do, which is carry camping and hiking gear comfortably.

I took the Haze 50 out for the first time down to Zions National Park in Utah. We set off for camp a half a mile off the road where I got my first feel for the backpack. Carrying about 30 lbs of gear for our overnight excursion was surprisingly comfortable; all of the weight sat easily on my hips and I felt no strain on my back or shoulders. Unpacking at camp was easy, but only because I had planned ahead and put my most needed items on top. It was a small hassle getting to the bottom items but it wasn’t a chore. After we packed up in the morning, I strapped the backpack back on and headed back downhill. Thanks to the suspension features, I barely noticed the pack on my back. At the end of the trip, I was pretty impressed with the Haze 50, but not surprised. Mountainsmith was founded by Patrick Smith, who spent a lot of time outdoors, and their product features are still clearly the result of getting out there and enjoying hiking and camping.

The good:

The bad:

The Mountainsmith website lists the Haze for $129.95, which is an excellent value for any backpacker. Looking around, I found the Haze selling for a little over $100 at various retailers. At that price, it would be hard to pass up.

Coast LED111 3-in-1 Tool

First up is their 3-in-1 Tool. With an open length of just four inches (a hair under three when closed), and weighing only 1.2 ounces, this instrument of suburban survival has three of the most important tools dad might need in a typical day. The 1.12 inch blade is ideal for all those situations where a small but sharp knife is needed, and won’t draw any questioning looks outside of a TSA search. A bright LED comes in handy for finding things in the dark, or just annoying coworkers. And at the end of the day, the bottle opener will be most appreciated.

Coast LED111 3-in-1 Tool

Being the clever person that I am, I tested the knife before testing the bottle opener. After slitting open a few envelopes, cutting into a couple of boxes, and slicing a piece of paracord, I was satisfied with the blade’s performance. By the way, it’s actually just right for opening letters. From there, I tried the bottle opener out on multiple local micro brews. While my productivity for the evening suffered, I feel like it was an effective use of my testing time. It also gave me an excuse to try the flashlight while carrying my empties out to the recycle bin. Bright enough to light your path, or find your way around a small room, the pressure sensitive momentary switch is easy to use, and you can’t accidentally leave the light on. It’s available with a black or red nylon handle, and carries a suggested retail of under $20.

Coast DX330

If dad needs a bit more robust knife, why not get him one with extra safety features? The DX330 from Coast was designed for rescue personnel, so there’s glass breaker on the end of the handle, and a seatbelt cutter built into the handle itself. For making quick work of cutting chores (either leisure or emergencies), the blade is a combination tanto upper with a serrated lower. Although it doesn’t have any sort of spring-assist for opening, thumb studs on either side allow one-hand operation. Once open, there’s an extra lock that can be activated with your thumb, in addition to the liner lock.

Beside the wallet friendly $32.99 MSRP, there’s a lot to like about this knife. The deep-carry clip lets it ride low in your pocket, minimizing any chance of loss while remaining unobtrusive. Coast’s Double-Lock safety feature is actually simple to use, and adds another layer of safety to the liner lock. By using aluminum instead of plastic for the grips, you get a nice texture, but in a thinner grip that’s still very durable. I like the all black finish, but I’m certain it will wear over time, and that’s ok. Coast has priced this knife low enough that the owner shouldn’t be too upset if they lose it (sentimental value aside) or it starts to show wear prematurely. But they’ve also built in enough quality that you’ll feel like you got your money’s worth by the time something wears out. And like all of Coast’s products, it’s backed by their lifetime guarantee against defects in materials or workmanship. While I didn’t get to break any windows or cut someone out of a burning car, the design itself has already been proven by first-responders.

You’ll find plenty of other cool knives, as well as a huge range of flashlights, on the Coastportland.com website. And check back a little later this month for our review of their awe-inspiring HP314 that offers a 2,240 beam distance from a single 1,132 lumen LED.

- Brian