Skywatch Windoo
When all other conversation fails, there's always the weather. So here's an ice-breaker so to speak: a titchy weather station for both iOS and Android smartphones. Made by a Swiss electronics company, the Skywatch Windoo has a tiny anemometer to measure wind speed, and sensors for temperature, pressure and humidity. It plugs into the 3.5mm jack and decodes the data by way of its own app, which also lets you share it if it's a slow social media day. The Windoo comes in a little cylinder to attach to a keyring for when you're not running your personal met service. From $66 for the basic model, see windoo.ch
Giro Synthe
Just as the World Cup was a chance for Adidas and Nike to spring their latest footie kit on the market, the Tour de France heralds fresh bike tech. Giro's latest road helmet, Synthe will be in good bike shops shortly with enhanced cooling and ventilation thanks to smarter internal channelling and enlarged venting – but without sacrificing aerodynamics. Oh and if you're concerned about on-road co-ordination with your lycra-rich wardrobe, Synthe comes in seven colours. Weighs 250gm. €250, see giro.com
Patchnride
Less rarified bike gadgetry is on offer with Patchnride, an innovative way to deal with punctures in tube inners, without having to take off the wheel. Just locate the puncture hole, pinch the tyre, insert the Patchnride needle, slide the plunger up and down and it's done. A flexible, tough patch is inserted, sealing the hole and allowing the tyre be pumped up again straight away. $30, patchnride.com
