Somewhat exaggeratedly, the US manufacturer Cannondale made itself comfortable in a high-priced performance league until around three years ago. With a change of course in the brand image, not only new heads - for example Josh Bryceland - have landed at Cannondale. But also new bikes: it started with the Habit trail bike and is now getting really playful with the Dave dirt bike.

A good six months ago, Crank Brothers took a logical step: the company now not only offers pedals, but also the shoes to go with them. Now the Classics Collection completes the shoe portfolio of the accessories specialist. The Stamps Speed Lace and Mallet Speed Lace shoes retain the characteristics of their existing downhill and enduro counterparts, but boast a color scheme that focuses on white, red and black.

It's almost a megatrend in the bicycle industry: bringing production from Asia closer to the European sales markets. Italian manufacturer 3T is now taking this step. After a carbon crank already produced in Italy, carbon frames that are 100% Made in Italy are now following suit. 3T even lets you look over its shoulder.