Bosch Fontus cordless cleaner

First impression
The Fontus is mobile thanks to its large wheels, but its size makes it more suitable for stationary use. It holds 15 liters of water and generates a pressure of 15 bar. The two-meter hose is a little stiff, but can be rolled up and stored at the back of the device. Three pressure levels are available and four different water jets can be selected. A brush is available as an accessory, which can simply be attached to the nozzle. Thanks to the Bosch system, the rechargeable battery is compatible with other devices from the manufacturer.

In use
The wide jet with maximum pressure is perfect for getting a really dirty bike clean. The brush attachment is ideal for clearing clogged tires. The rest of the bike can also be cleaned quickly without the brush. As a rule, you can get away with one tank filling. Unless the bike is packed full of mud and clay, it can take up to a quarter of a tank more. The large opening of the tank makes filling very easy. The battery lasts for about six intensive cleanings. It is fully charged in less than two hours.

Conclusion
The Bosch Fontus is superior to other mobile pressure washers. The only thing to criticize is the spray head holder, which quickly became wobbly, and the battery compartment, which jams from time to time. Otherwise, two thumbs up for this product.

Price: CHF 389.90

Manufacturer/distributor:
Robert Bosch GmbH
www.bosch-garden.com

Veloplus Monsoon jacket

First impression
The rain jacket with a Gore-Tex Active membrane comes in a classic, bright red color. Ideal for being clearly visible in bad weather. The rain jacket developed by Veloplus is made by the Austrian manufacturer Löffler. It has adjustable cuffs, ventilation openings under the arms and an adjustable hood. A water column of 28,000 millimetres promises to be waterproof even in monsoon-like downpours. The name says it all.

In use
The cut is close to the body without being constricting. The hood fits just over the helmet, but unfortunately the zipper on the collar can no longer be fully closed. If you wear it under your helmet, it doesn't get in the way. All the seams are widely taped on the inside and even after several washes the jacket remains completely waterproof for hours. The breathability is very high and therefore the climate under the jacket is good. The ventilation openings are a little tight, but can be opened with one hand.

Conclusion
With the Veloplus Monsun, you are ideally equipped for really bad April weather. Rain stays outside efficiently, sweat only collects a little, a well thought-out product. The robust design results in a slightly larger pack size.

Price: CHF 349.00

Manufacturer/distributor:
Veloplus AG
www.veloplus.ch

ION Tee LS Scrub Select Jersey

First impression
A waterproof jersey? Right. You might think you've misheard, but that's not the case. The long-sleeved jersey is made from a waterproof 4-way stretch material. The water column is 5000 millimetres and the water vapor permeability is 5000 grams per square metre in 24 hours. The cut is loose and fits well. It has a small zippered pocket at the back and an integrated glasses cleaning cloth at the front. The shiny outer material takes some getting used to, but the inside is pleasant against the skin.

In use
The jersey is completely windproof and is ideal for days around ten degrees. In warmer temperatures, the breathability is no longer sufficient on climbs. A sweaty feeling sets in. The outer material remains waterproof for a long time in medium precipitation. But because the material is thin, you can easily get cold due to the damp surface. But you stay surprisingly dry.

Conclusion
The shirt is ideal for shuttle or train-supported tours or as a change of clothes for the descent. You'll quickly work up a sweat uphill. Downhill, you'll appreciate the wind protection on dry days and the lightweight protection that allows plenty of freedom of movement in the rain.

Price: CHF 109.90

Manufacturer/distributor:
ION / Sideshore AG
www.ion-products.com

Mavic Dee Max Pro Flat Bike Shoes

First impression
Mavic's new flat shoe is designed for gravity use. Thanks to its solid construction, it is also suitable for regular biking in poor conditions. The toe and heel zones are reinforced. The ankle is well protected thanks to the raised inner side. The polyamide and Kevlar upper material is abrasion-resistant and water-repellent.

In use
Compared to other shoes from the French manufacturer, this one has a slightly longer cut. The grip is impeccable. The proprietary Contagrip sole is a little hard in colder temperatures. If the barometer rises above ten degrees, it provides good grip. The stiffness of the sole is average, as is the power transmission when pedaling. The shoe is comfortable to run in. The comfort is further enhanced by Mavic's Ortholite insole.

Conclusion
The Mavic Dee Max Pro Flat may not be completely waterproof, but it keeps the rain out for quite a while. The robust materials mean that ventilation suffers somewhat - certainly not a major problem in April. Thanks to their sneaker-like look, they also make a good trap on après-bikes.

Price: CHF 190.00

Manufacturer/distributor:
Mavic
https://shop.mavic.com

Shimano Saint PD-M828 pedals

First impression
The Saint platform pedal is designed for durability. The footprint is large and has twelve pins on each side - either short or long. The steel axle increases the weight to 550 grams, but makes the pedal robust. Thanks to the large openings, dirt cannot get stuck, just right for muddy rides in April.

In use
The short pins were replaced by the long ones after a few rides, as they were not convincing. The long ones provide a very high level of grip, even when used on muddy trails. Thanks to the low bottom bracket, the Saint pedals have had some unwanted contact with the ground. There was no more than visual damage.

Conclusion
The Saint pedals are made to last longer than the bike. The robust construction and high-quality bearings withstand contact with the ground and frequent cleaning with a pressure washer. Provided the shoe sole has good grip, the hold is impeccable.

Price: CHF 170.00

Manufacturer/distributor:
Shimano / Fuchs-Movesa AG
https://bike.shimano.com