Pearl Izumi have a history of well though out clothing that also offers a stylish look, we hoped these shorts were no exception.

The design is quite simple but they are panelled to give a better all round fit, this is something that makes a big difference to the fit and some of the cheaper designs cut out. We got a black pair which is fairly standard, they have some small detailing on each leg with the Pearl Izumi logos on but are fairly plain apart from that. Out on the road we found that these logos are actually a big problem for the shorts.

There is a 3D pro logo that is around the outside of the chamois but still in a bad area. If this lettering contacts the skin then it is not good, not good at all. The logo can’t be removed as it has been heated onto the material. This is logo causes a real problem for the shorts and was obviously an idea of a marketing team not an actual cyclist, it’s a real let down.

The shorts are quite light weight, light and wick away the sweat well making them good warm weather shorts however the logo issue above is a real show stopper for us so we are not keen on them at all. Come on Pearl Izumi sort it out and get your products tested by real cyclists!

The already popular and solid design of the M970 pedal form Shimano has been updated and has the XTR brand so you know its going to be light and expensive! When you’re looking for good pedals you want them to be smooth and hassle free the M970 XTR pedals offer this by having a sealed cartridge axle system that not only helps it keep smooth but makes it simpler for maintenance. You can tell Shimano have though about the design as they have come up with ideas (or gimmicks) like coating the pedals in Teflon to help stop mud sticking to it. Altogether the pedals come in at 325g for the pair which is light but not as light as the crank brothers egg beaters.

We fitted them on and headed out the fist thing we noticed when we clipped in was how precise the mechanism was. When you click in they give the reassuring click as feedback that you’re ready to go. The bindings are adjustable so you can make it tighter or looser depending on your riding preference. They offer a good platform for the cleat and we always felt like our feet were secure without the feeling that they might become disengaged at any time. If you don’t like the feel of egg beaters but still want light pedals there are just about your best bet.

Buy online here from £104.99