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VK Strongbox
Cyclists and baggage handlers don't always hit it off. Baggage handlers see bikes as sharp, greasy and awkward, and bike-owners see baggage handlers as clumsy and unappreciative of their fragile machines. The only failsafe solution is to make your bike look like 'normal' luggage - this also gets around any special 'fees' for bicycles, or even outright bans on some forms of public transport.

The VK Strongbox, from Dutch company VK International, conceals your bike in a very solid 9kg impact-resistant ABS plastic case. Just remove both wheels, and use the lengths of foam plastic provided to separate and protect the components. The 120 x 90 x 28cm case has four wheels on the bottom for easy movement and can be secured with two locks.

Cycle tour operators, large families or cycling clubs will appreciate VK's mass-transport system: a carrier to secure six large-wheeled bikes. A gas spring holds them perfectly still. A bicycle without mudguards can be fitted in 3 seconds and a bicycle with mudguards in 15 seconds. The steel carrier can be fitted on a trailer or in a van, or VK can supply complete trailers to accommodate 6, 12, 18 or even 24 bikes.

VK International specialise in interesting accessories. Their VK Prism-Glasses are designed for racing cyclists in search of the perfect aerodynamic posture. A racer with his head down can see the road in front via the prisms, while back, neck and head remain in a natural curve. The horizontal position which results can lead, say the manufacturers, to an aerodynamic advantage of up to 5% at a speed of 40km/h.

The two prisms are 40mm wide and provide a clear view of the entire breadth of the road. The glasses are fixed tightly and securely to the head and nose with an elastic cord. They have been primarily designed for lone cyclists such as time triallists, triathletes and long-distance cyclists. They can, additionally, reduce muscle tension in the neck and back for anyone riding with drop handlebars.


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