iceBike* 2015 preview: Shimano, Garmin, Park Tool & Lazer

iceBike* is only a few weeks away, with a brand new venue and combining new products from Madison and Sportline. But what can you expect to find there? The good people from the aforementioned companies have forwarded us some details…

Shimano’s first electronic groupset for mountain biking, XTR Di2 (M9050), will feature at iceBike*. The components are the result of an extensive testing programme and is a huge step forward in MTB tech, we hear. As you’d expect, shifting requires minimal effort with a simple press of a button and the new programmable shifting layout, Syncrho Shift, brings enhanced performance and adjustability. XTR Di2 offers a clean appearance on the bike and low maintenance thanks to the use of electrical wires. See it up close and try it out at the Shimano stand.

The recently announced Garmin vivoactive is a GPS smartwatch. On display at iceBike* 2015, this ultra-thin, lightweight GPS smartwatch with a high-resolution touchscreen comes with built-in running, biking, golfing, swimming and activity tracking apps that let you view your stats, even when away from your phone. vivoactive even features vibration alerts for incoming phone calls, text messages and other notifications such as email, as well as wireless sync with Garmin Connect Mobile and up to three weeks battery life.

Park Tool’s director of education Calvin Jones, known as one of the world’s most qualified and respected mechanics and instructors, will be flying in from Minnesota for iceBike* 2015 and delivering technical talks and product demonstrations over the course of the show. With over 40 years in the industry, Jones lives, eats and breathes bicycles so this is an excellent opportunity to talk to the man behind Park Tool’s Big Blue Book of Bicycle Repair.

At the end of 2014, Madison, long-term sponsor of British Cycling, announced Lazer as the official helmet supplier of British Cycling, which will see British athletes sport the Z1 road helmet and Wasp Air Time Trial helmet when competing for Great Britain. To celebrate the partnership, Lazer has created a range of bespoke helmets in classic Team GB colours which will be taking pride of place on the Lazer stand at iceBike* this year.

iceBike* 2015 runs February 24th to 26th at Arena: MK. Get yourself registered at the official site.