So, in 2014 Glasgow actually, really & definitely hosts the 20th Commonwealth games! The fact that this is actually going to happen has arguably dawned on us cyclists; first with the opening of the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome & of course the ongoing construction of the XC MTB course up at Cathkin Braes.

Last week, I got a call from friend & fellow MTB'er Gary Tompsett, who had been tasked by those of the Hi-Viz jackets at GLC (Glasgow City Council) to gather a group of experienced mountain bikers that could critique the course from a point of view of the legacy that will be left at Cathkin. (After the hype of the games has come & gone) Naturally, I didn't need to be asked twice, so with a bunch of mutual friends I woke up the Yeti, we gathered our gear & headed for "The Braes" on a cold Thursday morn.....

The Gore Bike Wear Cosmo so Jacket

We may be half way through the winter season, but we still have some ways yet to go, so a windproof soft-shell, to me, becomes very appealing.

The Cosmo SO Jacket uses a robust Gore Windstopper material that blocks out that cold wind reducing its chilling effect, add to that a fleece lining, internal elastic cuff with thumbhole and you have yourself one cozy jacket.

Although classed as an MTB jacket it has a fairly casual cut and front pockets so you may find yourself reaching for this even when the bike is staying at home.

Features

*Fleece lining
*Snap-insert on collar for easy, one-handed opening of the front zip
*Fleece-lined, close fit high collar
*Zip tags for easy opening
*Zipped underarm vents
*Elastic sleeve cuff with thumbhole
*Adjustable cuff
*Napoleon pocket with zip
*Zip pocket on back
*Sleeve-pocket with Velcro closure
*Reflective logo

With unpredictable Scottish winters, the one thing you can always bet on is by the time your new bike lands the elements are always going to be against you. A little rain and wind has never hurt, but a few inches of snow is more ski weather than biking weather. Giant UK were able to hook me up with the 2013 Glory 0, based on 2012 downhill World Champ Danny Hart's winning bike, nice and early in the year and I was itching to get out on it as soon as it was unboxed.

Testing ground for the bike was originally meant to be the renowned trails at Innerleithen just outside of Peebles however with the weather, aims were turned to Cambusbarron (Cambu to the regulars) near to Stirling. These trails built by local riders around a disused quarry and offer everything from dirt jumps to tight trails to a huge 40ft step down. Any