Five cool things coming soon from Zefal, Zwatt, Vittoria, Torq and Sweet Protection

Blimey, is it the middle of September already?! We don't know where that lovely summer went, but we're hoping for more of the dry stuff over the next few weeks before the chill sets in...

Zefal Z Race frame bag

£33.99

The Z Race bag can fit to your top tube with straps or can also screw into your frame if you have a tri bike with the relevant holes. The transparent window and magnetic opening ensure you can see what you're about to grab and it's easy to access the contents, and there's also a removable internal compartment to organise it better. It's also lightweight at just 90g and made with tough waterproof materials, so should last you years. Does it beat good old jersey pockets? Simon Whitby's verdict is due soon.   
bobelliot.co.uk

Zwatt Zpider Power Meter 

€499

This power meter was originally a Kickstarter project, and two years later it's on sale and on test with our tech editor Mat Brett. The aim was to make power more affordable, and though there are plenty of lower cost options trickling though now, Zwatt's price point of 499 euros is pretty good for a dual-sided offering. Accuracy is claimed to be +/-2%, the same as most other power meters, and you don't have to worry about battery replacement because there's a rechargeable one integrated into the spider. It’s also compatible with ANT+ and Bluetooth head units and firmware updates can be applied via the company’s own app. Has (more) affordable power come of age? Check back for the verdict coming soon...
teamzwatt.com

Vittoria Alusion Aero alloy clincher wheelset

£399.99

These affordable semi-aero hoops from Vittoria weigh in at 1860g for the pair, and are meant to be a versatile in-between for those who like something a bit faster on their training bike, but don't necessarily want to swap their wheels out for the odd race. They're asymmetric at the rear to equalize spoke tension, and built on Vittoria's hubs with straight-pull, bladed spokes to make them rigid and durable for years of reliable performance. Are they as good as they sound? Tass Whitby is riding them now with a review coming before the end of the month. 
zyrofisher.co.uk

Torq Caramel Latte gel with Guarana

£1.85 each

This coffee-flavoured gel from Torq packs 89mg of caffeine in each gel, far more than the standard 50mg serving you'd find in most gels according to Torq. The Gurana extract used is a natural product with no chemical nasties, claimed to give a good old caffeine kick for when you need it most. All Torq gels have a 2:1 maltodextrin:fructose formula, because Torq say maltodextrin is the best carbohydrate to use in isolation, and mixed with fructose the two ingredients are absorbed together rather than compete for nutritional superiority. Does the science work in practice? Steve Williams is currently finding out on a big old ride somewhere hilly, we presume...
zyrofisher.co.uk

Sweet Protection Outrider helmet

£99.99

This lid "looks as good with jeans as with lycra" according to the brand themselves, and is billed as a lightweight do-it-all helmet with plenty of ventilation. It has a 2-piece shell construction and an EPS liner, and 'advanced impact absorption technology' to cushion potential blows. It also has an eyewear gripper and the Occigrip dial is supposed to provide easy adjustment with a firm and comfortable fit, that's also adjustable in reach and height. Is it fine for wearing round town and on the club run? George Hill is testing the riding with the Outrider now, with a review due very soon...
jungleproducts.co.uk

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