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High performance biking apparel manufacturer Pearl Izumi has disclosed details of a top-secret project designed to develop and test new technology to increase comfort for avid cyclists.
The Uranus project has focused on upping saddle comfort and has worked with leading pro cyclist Dave Zabriskie (aka DZ) – creator of DZnuts chamois cream, and astronomer Peter Bosacker. Pearl Izumi has tested the Anatomic 4D Chamois Technology on one of the harshest environments in the solar system – Uranus. Izumi has reportedly spent millions of dollars to R&D the anatomic technology and has, according to the firm, proved to have the potential to provide comfort up to 1,607,000,000 miles – the same distance from the Earth to Uranus.
The Anatomic 4D Chamois tech provides breathable seamless four-way stretch using advanced materials technology with the company’s enhanced precision anatomic shaping process. The resulting chamois features strategically placed padding to relieve pressure and dampen vibration. The technology will be exclusively available in Pearl Izumi’s PRO Series cycling shorts, bib shorts, knickers and tights for men and women riders.
"We used computer pressure map testing to pinpoint the exact location, thickness and density of our chamois padding technology to key contact points for optimal short and long-distance riding comfort," said Cache Mundy, lead director of Pearl Izumi’s top secret Project Uranus. "This technology will dampen vibrations which can lead to rider fatigue and numbness, and will allow riding enthusiasts of all skill levels to reach their riding goals, whether it’s an epic ride with your local bike club, or long-distance treks to Uranus."
The manufacturer has released a video explaining the science behind the new project – at www.pearlonuranus.com.
UPDATE: Now that April Fool’s Day morning is officially over, it’s only fair to point out that Pearl Izumi’s Uranus project is almost certainly a hoax. Or at least we hope it is.
Pearl Izumi, recently picked up by Madison, is no stranger to the world of spoofs. Last year a viral video from the firm took an amusing pot shot at the UCI.
