Lake Shows Off Cyclocross-Specific Shoe

Following feedback and requests from some of its top sponsored cyclocross pros, Lake is breaking new ground with a cross-racing specific shoe. The barrier hopper, aka the MX331 Cross, is built around the company's previous MX mountain bike line, but has shed weight thanks to a reduction in rubber on the sole. It also comes with removable spikes, making it usable in just about any race conditions. Other features include 100-percent carbon fiber sole that's customizable, a BOA push-pull lacing system, and Pittard's leather and mesh upper. The outsole also has a rubber cleat pocket, and replaceable heel and toe spikes, so if anything gets too worn down you can replace it. Pricing and availability to be determined.



Focus Debuts Team Ag2R Izalco Replica Bike

If you're a fan of France's top WorldTour team you can now show your allegiance by hopping aboard the new Focus Izalco Team SL Ag2R team replica bike. The race-ready steed is built around the existing Izalco Team SL frame, but is a claimed 150 grams lighter (now 960 grams in a 54cm frame). The new bike is painted up in Ag2R colors with a swanky Campagnolo Record EPS electronic-shifting drivetrain draped over top. Other spec highlights include wind-cheating 50mm Fulcrum Racing Speed carbon tubular wheels with Schwalbe Ultremo tires, and a fi'zi:k Arione saddle. MSRP is a wallet-biting $10,000, or you can chose the more budget-friendly Izalco pro build with Campy Chorus and Fulcrum WH-CEX 6.5 wheels for $4,500. Available in July.



Smith PivLock V2 With Photocromic Lenses



Smith Optics has its full array of sunglasses on display here at Sea Otter, continuing the company's pledge to make, "great days better." Best of those day-makers, in our opinion, is the Smith PivLock with Ignitor photocromic lenses. These automatic-tint adjusting lenses adapt to most light conditions, meaning you'll have clear vision on the road or trail no matter how much sun is shining down. The lightweight, peripheral-vision enhancing frameless design is available is regular and Max sizing. Switching lenses is easy thanks to the simple-to-operate PivLock system. We also like the fact that the nose piece can be adjusted between three positions, assuring proper fit no matter the size of your schnoz. Three lenses, plus carrying case runs $239, or opt for a non-photocromic package for $159.



Michelin Pushing Array Of Pro4 Road Tires

Well-know tire maker Michelin has upped the ante with its Pro4 road line, which includes options ranging from tubulars to training tires to race-ready clinchers. The highlight, according to national sales promoter Ralph Cronin, is the 23mm Pro4 Service Course Comp, a $80, 180-gram tire with ultra-supple 150-TPI nylon casing. There's also a Comp Limited version that's 15 grams lighter and geared toward time trial-type events. Cronin claims the 150-TPI is a best-in-class offering that reduces rolling resistance and enhances ride quality. Michelin is also promoting the 23mm Pro4 Grip model that's designed specifically for wet weather riding.