This Autumn has been punctuated by three things: pro racing; the literal fog the clung to central Europe for weeks (picture above); the continued shift in cities everywhere towards commuting by bike. (Googles for bikes and parts are up 425% according to Leisure Lake Bikes, a UK biz). With the latter in mind, here’s a list of gear that’s trickled through the office specific to commuting that’s made riding in inclement conditions much more tenable and pleasant. We’ve dubbed it, “Kings of the Commute” — but “awesome essentials that will make the daily grind that much less so” also works.

KNOG Blinder X Twin Pack

Blinder X lights from KNOG produce a punchy 200 lumens on the front and 100 lumens on the rear. They also pack a serious battery life - 60 hours when using eco flash mode (seen here after repeated use during a 300km week). They are lightweight, charge quickly and are the perfect antidote to dwindling Autumn daylight and serious fog. These are so awesome actually that I’ve taken to using them in broad daylight and dark conditions just to be sure passersby realize they need to share the road. Both have quickly become every ride essentials.

LOOK Trail Grip Pedals

I’ve ridden LOOKS for years but never on the commuter and was genuinely surprised by how much of an upgrade these pedals actually were, adding loads of stability and style to town rides. LOOK invented the clipless design, so that the French co. is breaking away from its heritage with flat pedals is in itself unique. These come customizable with rubber treads and are an excellent way to add more feel to your daily ride.

RAPHA Merino T Shirt and Commuter Jacket

I tried taking my own image of the new 2020 Rapha Commuter when in use, but this is by far a better one. In a rich chocolate brown (the one we tried out) the updated commuter comes with slightly longer reflective back, cuffed neoprene sleeves and a stretch poly fabric that sits beautifully on and off the bike. This is a well considered piece of commuter kit and by far a more stylish and well engineered one than most other alternatives. A very stylish reflective fabric keeps the hood stowed when not in use. A beautiful and subtle detail. Size Medium, 185 cm, 73 kgs.

Merino is mesmerizing AF, no? Day in, day out. You can ride it 200kms, commute casually to the office in it all week and in either case, it doesn’t stink. Like not one bit. Shower with it on, hang dry and it’s good to go. Or simply leave it in a pile and wear repeatedly, and it’s road ready. I’ve had several merino T’s from Rapha over the years; this one, with high-vis cuffs and enhanced fit makes it one of the best. Size up if planned for city use. Size L 185 cm, 73 kgs.

Cascada Merino Socks

Cascada is an interesting company, straddling the pivot points of outdoor adventure and sport that cycling and mountains both offer. Their merino socks are an excellent iteration of what’s come before it - cut slightly thinner to more comfortably fit inside road shoes, yet equally at home with your feet up in front of the fire or hiking in the backcountry. A perfect length for fall riding and able to wear repeatedly without wash if required.

Ortlieb 21 L Commuter Backpack in Pepper

For years I held the Brooks roll top bags up to the highest standard, at once balancing the pressures of form and function for a city commuter so elegantly. This Ortlieb Commuter however has unseated that throne, boasting more modern and structured carrying capacity and definitely a more secure road feel when in the drops riding. The loops for rear light has been appreciated in a months use more than once, as has the secure fitting laptop sleeve and removable internal storage pack. Once flights become real again, I could see this doubling as the perfect overnighter, too. I’m a massive fan of Ortlieb products. This bag is a continuance of the quality they consistently create.

KNOG Oi Lux

There are bells and there are bells. This Oi Lux from Knog is most certainly the latter, worthy of space on your road bike and or your commuter to be heard from hundreds of metres out. Effective uses: getting people and dogs to give you space and telling cars you’re in the bike lane. One of the loudest/smallest bells you’ll find and beautifully designed in stainless steel.