The Velo Awards segment dedicated to Product of the Year shines a light on non-bike gear spanning everything from budget essentials to premium, high-tech innovations. The 2025 contenders reflect a year defined by smarter integration, lighter footprints, and greater capability on and off the bike. Here are the nominees making waves across cycling disciplines, with a glimpse at why they matter and what riders should know.

Oakley meta Vanguard glasses

Among this year’s standout gadgetry, Oakley’s Meta Vanguard glasses earned praise for delivering practical, hands-free media capture and interaction while riding. The device pairs solid video stability with the ability to share footage with partners or friends without removing hands from the bars.The built‑in speakers and microphone also enable real conversations at moderate speeds, which genuinely shifts how riders stay connected on the move. Caveats remain: the price is high, helmet compatibility can be restricted by the arm design, and battery life could be longer. Still, this pair has left a lasting impression on many riders seeking a blend of optics, audio, and on-the-go sharing. – Alvin Holbrook

Exposure Lights Toro 16

Quietly making a big impact, the Toro 16 has become a go-to example of how steady, meticulous design can reshape night riding. While not a flashy launch, its combination of LED efficiency, refined reflector geometry, and a compact, battery‑integrated form delivers enduring performance. The result is a powerful light capable of long nocturnal sessions without external power supports. It’s a practical upgrade that fits seamlessly into riders’ routines, especially for those who log long evening rides. – Josh Ross

TQ HPR40 e-bike motor

Among the most talked-about advancements of 2025 is the TQ HPR40, which many riders describe as the first e‑bike motor that feels truly unobtrusive. Instead of a clear, constant hum of assistance, the system blends so smoothly with pedaling that you often forget it’s there. The integration is especially clean-the display is kept to a single bar-end button with a quartet of LEDs, while power data can be viewed on a preferred bike computer. The result is speed that arrives naturally rather than via a pronounced assist, pairing impressive range with a subtle footprint. – AH

Campagnolo Super Record 13

Campagnolo’s latest 13-speed setup stands out not for needing more gears,but for delivering a richer riding experience with them. The new range is designed to extend the top end of the cassette while preserving the feel of customary performance. For many riders,a setup such as 52-36 with an 11-36 delivers broader options for steep climbs and fast flats alike. The overall package emphasizes versatility and refinement, making it a compelling choice for riders seeking maximum cadence control without sacrificing range.For a deeper dive, see the full review linked below. – JR

Shimano GRX Di2 1x RX827

Shimano’s GRX Di2 1x RX827 has reaffirmed its appeal in gravel riding, offering shifts that rival or exceed the speed and smoothness of its road-line siblings. Braking performance remains strong, and the drivetrain’s battery life continues to impress, with riders reporting long intervals between charges on challenging terrain. While not declared as the definitive gravel standard, this groupset is widely recommended for riders who value precise shifts, reliable braking, and a streamlined setup. – AH

Shimano MT001 SPD cleats

Shimano’s MT001 cleats mark a practical update in clipless footwear for MTB and road riders alike. The new design allows clipping into most SPD pedals with toe-in, heel-in, or a straight stomp, reducing the learning curve and easing hurried entries. The front edge’s curved profile has the welcome side effect of less scraping noise when walking in cleats. While SPD cleats tend to last for years, MT001 offers a meaningful, user-amiable improvement for those who replace their cleats and pedals sooner. – AH

SRAM Force and Rival

SRAM’s Force and Rival offerings yield a notable price advantage without sacrificing performance. While RED remains the flagship, Force and Rival deliver braking and overall performance levels that closely match the higher-tier groupsets. This positioning-high performance at lower cost-has resonated with riders who want premium feel without premium pricing. The message from SRAM is clear: lower tiers can be nearly indistinguishable in day-to-day performance. – JR

Zipp 303 SW wheels with AXS connectivity

The 303 SW wheelset represents a refined step forward with a built-in pressure sensor molded into the carbon structure. This makes the wheelset app-connected and capable of real-time pressure monitoring, aligning with a broader push toward connected cycling gear. The upgrade tightens the link between wheel maintenance and on-bike performance, providing a subtle but meaningful advantage for riders who want precise tire management on the fly. – JR

Key takeaways in a quick comparison

The broader takeaway from this year’s nominees is a clear push toward connected,high-quality gear that blends seamlessly into riders’ routines. Whether it’s smarter illumination, quieter, more integrated e-motor assists, or gear with genuinely improved clipping and shifting, the industry is prioritizing practical enhancements that translate into real-world gains.

For more in-depth coverage and full reviews,explore the official product pages and trusted testing platforms linked here:
oakley Meta Vanguard,
Exposure Toro 16,
TQ HPR40,
Campagnolo super Record 13,
Shimano GRX Di2 1x RX827,
Shimano MT001 Cleats,
SRAM Force & Rival,
Zipp 303 SW Wheels.

What innovation below excites you most? Do you plan to upgrade any of these products in the upcoming season? Share yoru picks and experiences in the comments below.

Stay tuned for the final Product of the Year declaration and more expert perspectives on how these advances reshape cycling for enthusiasts and professionals alike.