Peloton Paddock: Kask, Untapped, Challenge

Here at the Peloton Service Course we’re getting ready to hit the road for some amazing summer adventures around the world. This week in preparing for our departure we’ve stumbled upon three different pieces of gear – one to keep your head cool during a June Everesting attempt, a set of grips intended to keep it rubber side down during the descent and a natural energy source for a smooth running engine for hours on end – Kask, Challenge, Untapped.

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RELATED: Check out what else is on test at the Peloton Service Course.

Kask Vertigo Helmet

For unrivaled adjustment and secure fit in all conditions, the KASK Vertigo Helmet is an ideal choice for long miles in the saddle as the days get longer. The retention system cradles your head comfortably while Kask’s self-adjusting lateral divider automatically takes care of any strap adjustments necessary under the ears. A high-quality leather chin strap provides ultimate comfort with a secure fit and is easily washable. Other technologies include 3D Dry Padding, reflective stickers for increased visibility, in-mold technology for strength and decreased mass. Weighing in at a svelte 270 grams, it’s common to forget the Vertigo is even on. $250; kask.it

Challenge Strada Bianca

The Challenge Strada Bianca clincher tire is named after the “white” gravel roads found in the hills around the Tuscany region of Italy. Although most WorldTour riders choose a tubular version for a lighter overall weight and a more supple casing, the clincher or “open” tubular version shares many of the same characteristics of its more expensive sibling at a fraction of the cost. For the casing, Challenge uses its puncture-resistant and lightweight SuperPoly material with 260 threads per inch (TPI). A belt of polyester is added on top of the casing by twisting fibers to create one yarn from multiple strands. The resulting material is between 40 and 50% stronger than typical spun materials, while maintaining a lower overall weight. The new 30mm-wide profile is then wrapped with the popular Paris Roubaix herringbone tread pattern, ideal for a variety of paved or unpaved road surfaces, coming in black and the 700x30mm size. 360 grams each; $76; challengetech.it

UnTapped Maple Syrup

Containing 54 amino acids, vitamins, minerals, electrolytes, antioxidants and more – UnTapped Maple Syrup is considered a categorical superfood. Who would have thought it would be the perfect endurance athlete energy product? Well, Mr. Ted King, a former member of the pro peloton for 10 years took one taste and was instantly hooked. He’s teamed up with the 400 acre Slopeside Syrup farm in Richmond, Vermont to create this all-natural, athletic fuel. It won’t cause gut rot because there is only one ingredient and no unpronounceable additives/chemicals. Maple syrup also has a lower glycemic index than honey, so it’s a slow burning energy that won’t cause insulin spikes. Did we mention this grade A amber maple syrup tastes good? Mix it with your coffee (it’s water soluble), in your morning oatmeal or take it like a traditional gel during training and enjoy this real food product from UnTapped. 1 box (2o, .96 oz packets) $37: untapped.cc