Five cool things coming soon from Cateye, Trakke, Monton, FLR and Silca

As the weather takes another chilly turn (hopefully one of the last ones in this never-ending winter), road.cc's intrepid review team are still out trying some of the latest kit, equipment and bikes to give you an informed opinion before you buy. Here are some of the latest things we've been testing...

Silca Maratona Gear Bag

£180.00

This bag was designed with feedback from lots of intrepid cyclists, and aimed to address all their bugbears by creating a versatile, practical bag with no stone left unturned. The dimensions are optimised for taking it on a plane as carry-on luggage, and Silca claim the Maratona bag has up to 10L more volume than other max carry-on capacity bags. Inside, a bright red nylon material provides high contrast to make it easier to sort and find your stuff, and the outer is waxed canvas. It's got three external handles and two adjustable shoulder straps so you can use it as a hold-all or a backpack just as well. Will it greatly reduce your rummaging? Stu Kerton is finding out...
saddleback.co.uk

FLR FX.II Strawweight Road Race shoe

£179.99

They don't have the snappiest name we've ever come across, but we're hoping for a snappy performance from these road shoes, as worn by the AG2R La Mondiale team The design had input from pro rider Julien Bérard, and has a lightweight microfibre leather upper with ventilated nylon mesh, and a full carbon sole for rigidity. They fasten using two A-A14 Reel Knob dials, and have a Performance Cushion insole to balance out comfort with the stiffness. 
bobelliot.co.uk

Monton Revo Rock thermal jersey

£120.00

Although the appearance might make you think more 90's football training top than cycling apparel, this thermal jersey from Monton has a number of clever technical features to keep you warm and visible on the roads. There's a large reflective strip on the back, and the Miti Stelvio fabric is designed to be breathable but also warm in lower temps. It's a race fit, meaning you're recommended to size up if you prefer your jerseys more relaxed. Is the performance as loud as the print? Stu Kerton is testing now. 
montonsports.co.uk

​Cateye Orb bar end set

£19.99

These mini lights from Cateye replace the humble bar ends to make you more visible on the roads, in daytime or as an extra backup to your rear light at night. They run off 2 x 2032 batteries (included) and they only weigh in at 20g each despite having a durable aluminium casing. They also have some side visibility, and you simply press the lens itself to turn it on and off or change modes. Are they a stroke of genius from Cateye? Stu Kerton is our test guinea pig with his bar ends swapped out at the moment.
zyrofisher.co.uk

Trakke Wee Lug MK2 messenger bag

£220.00

This award-winning bag from Trakke is handmade in Scotland, and the latest version has a new strap design for a better fit. There's a large main compartment, laptop sleeve and expanding pockets on the front, all wrapped in a luxurious waxed cotton outer layer with stainless steel buckles and leather detailing. It's a big spend, but does the top quality design and materials justify it? Jo Burt has it on his back now with a review coming soon...
trakke.co.uk

For all the latest road.cc test reports, head over to our reviews section. If you want some more advice before splashing your cash, check out our buyer's guides.