Gadgets in the TOUR test centre: GPS computer, helmet, handlebar tape, smartwatch & shoe put to the test

In the TOUR test centre, we took a close look at some indispensable items that make every bike tour an experience. From a well-ventilated helmet, GPS navigation and handlebar tape to a smartwatch and high-quality road cycling shoes - what can the products do?

POC Cytal Lite helmet

The new Cytal Lite from POC aims to combine modern design and low weight with sophisticated heat management, which according to the manufacturer makes it ideal for ambitious climbers and tours in the summer heat. These two promises for the new Swedish helmet can be considered fulfilled after a few heat-heavy laps in the south of Munich. The conspicuously large air vents, 23 in total, allow plenty of airflow to the head and hot air out the back. Weighing in at 219 grams (size L, no Mips), the well-made protective shell sits inconspicuously on the head. The size adjustment with a small dial at the back and a three-way height-adjustable head ring (at maximum extension, a plait can easily fit through the back) works well and fits many heads of different shapes perfectly. The style police might criticise the fact that the Poc Cytal Lite is comparatively voluminous in contrast to current helmet fashion.

• Price: 350 Euro >> at Mountain friends or Bike Components
• Sizes: S (50 to 56); M (54 to 59); L (56 to 61)
• Weight: 219 grams (size L)
• Colours: White, black

>> Cycling computer, rain jacket, shoes, saddle bag & commuter jeans in the test

>> Road bike accessories for the whole year in the test centre

Jespr GPS computer

The Swiss company Jespr is entering the competitive bike computer market with the GPS sat nav of the same name (it is the manufacturer's only product to date). The device, which weighs 183 grams and has a 101 millimetre screen diagonal, aims to impress with its tidy design and slim functionality. Compared to established competitors such as Garmin or Wahoo, Jespr deliberately dispenses with features such as a music player or social media connection. Instead, the 69.5 x 122 x 25 millimetre sat nav concentrates on the core functions of navigation, training and data recording. At a price of around 580 euros, Jespr positions the device in the upper segment between competitors such as the Wahoo Elemnt and the Garmin Edge 1050. Route planning is carried out directly on the device or via the connection to platforms such as Komoot and Strava. A special feature is the integrated mobile phone connection, for which an additional subscription must be taken out with Jespr; however, this will not be available until 2026, so we were unable to try out the function.

The visualised wind data during the ride is an interesting feature, but proved to be not always reliable in practice. The menu navigation and the deliberately reduced functionality make the device intuitive to use; the battery bravely lasted a day's use, although we only connected a Garmin chest strap. The display shows weaknesses when exposed to sunlight, where it becomes difficult to read. The map display should generally be more contrasty. The cheaper Jespr does not come close to the performance of a Garmin 1050. The competition is more likely to be the Wahoo Elemnt (street prices around 240 to 500 euros, depending on the model) or a Sigma Rox (around 380/480 euros online). As the Jespr is still a start-up product and is likely to undergo a few more revisions, there is reason to believe that it will establish itself as a new player on the market. Very good approaches are already in place.

• Price: 580 Euro
• Weight: 183 grams (without holder)

+ Simple operation, not overloaded
- Display with weaknesses

Fizik handlebar tape

Fizik, the Italian manufacturer of bicycle accessories, has introduced a new collection of handlebar tapes for road and gravel bikes. They are designed to provide more control and comfort on the handlebars. The range includes various models in different thicknesses between 2 and 3.5 millimetres. There is also a choice of classic, soft and non-slip surfaces. In terms of colour, the palette ranges from black and white to blue and red tones to eye-catching neon colours. We wrapped the 3.5 millimetre thick version of the "Terra Solocush Tacky" on a colleague's gravel bike and tried it out. We already liked the elastic material when wrapping, which clings smoothly and wrinkle-free around every curve; the adhesive strip adheres well, which conversely makes corrections during wrapping a little more difficult. The feel is good in all weathers and the special cushioning promised by the manufacturer is expectedly inconspicuous.

• Price: 44,90 Euro
• Weight: 87 grammes

+ easy to wind, good grip, many variations

Huawei Smartwatch Watch 5

The Watch 5 is the new top-of-the-range smartwatch model from Chinese technology company Huawei. We strapped the new watch to our wrist and took it for a spin over roads, sticks and stones. The size and weight of the watch are unproblematic on the road and on gravel tracks, but on rougher terrain it can get in the way on the wrist or has to be strapped on tightly. The fact that loud voice announcements and notifications have to be deactivated in the default setting during training is annoying. As with other Huawei smartwatches, many fitness and health functions of the Health app are behind a paywall. The navigation function on the wrist can only be an additional aid and does not replace a GPS device mounted on the handlebars.

• Price: from 449 Euro >> available here
• Weight: 91 grams (including bracelet)

+ Processing, handling, many health functions
- Relatively large and heavy, many payment barriers, reflective display

Fizik Vega Carbon road bike shoe

With the Vega Carbon, Fizik presents a new high-end road cycling shoe and advertises the best wearing comfort. Our tester commented on the first fitting with the words: "I'm in!", which was like a feat of strength without a shoehorn before the foot finally felt comfortable in the footbed. But the effort is worth it, because as soon as you slip in, you immediately feel like you're wearing a second skin. The tongueless construction moulds itself amazingly precisely to the arch of the foot - even before the two Boa twist fasteners have been tightened. The upper edge in the heel area is pleasantly soft without lacking support. The airy fabric provides a fresh, light feel throughout. The Vega Carbon is certainly not the first choice for hours of riding in the rain - but in dry weather it offers a very convincing mix of comfort and stiffness. By the way, taking them off is no easy task either, but when a shoe fits so perfectly on the trail, you accept it with a grin.

• Price: 390 Euro >> available here
• Sizes: 36 to 48; 37.5 to 45.5
• Weight: 537 grams (size 43.5)
• Colours: Black, white, white-yellow-blue

+ Wearing comfort, all-round fit, power transmission
- Dressing and undressing