Nomad Sport Band Review :

Nomad Sport Band

Nomad Sport Band Review : Apple Watch Band

Apple’s Apple Watch straps and bands are difficult to beat in terms of fit and quality. They are well made, feel right, fit right and look right. Whether you are looking at the Nike Sport Loop, the Apple Watch Ultra Dive Strap, one of the official offerings from Hermes, or something in between you are guaranteed to have something that will have quality, form and function. One more things is guaranteed – they are costly.

So you have something that works well and looks right but is also expensive. The result then is the market will be flooded with bootlegs. A quick browse on an international marketplace will show hundreds of options for copy straps that instead of costing somewhere between £50-£100+ you will have similar ‘looking’ options that start at a few £s.

Often though, you get what you pay for and often these bootlegs will look the part in the photos but when you receive them the quality is far less that what you would hope for. You can get lucky but I have always found that the fitting systems on non genuine straps is poor. The band (especially the fabric options) can often be reasonable but the fitting is pretty useless.

All is not lost though. There are some good third party accessory manufacturers who make products that are not simply a knock off of one of Apple’s designs. They spend money in research and development and come up with alternative and functional products.

One such company is Nomad.

I have recently reviewed another Nomad product, the Nomad Rugged Case, which I have used now for around 6 weeks – it has not been off my phone and still looks exactly as it did when purchased. This was a huge contributing factor as to why I opted to try the Nomad Sport Band Apple Watch Strap.

Nomad Rugged Case and Sport Band
Nomad Rugged Case and Sport Band

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2023 TBNI.Blog Christmas T-Shirts

2023 TBNI.Blog Christmas T-Shirts :

And they are gone…

They might be back at the end of 2024?

The TBNI.Blog Christmas T-Shirts are available again!

They are just a bit of Christmas fun and each one purchased gives a couple of quid to the site, which all goes towards the running and upkeep costs.

If you would like to get your hands on one they are available exclusively here :

2023 TBNI.Blog Christmas T-Shirts

Oh and act fast, these will disappear again on 6th January 2024.


Nomad Rugged Case Review : Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max

Nomad Rugged Case Review : Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max :

Nomad Rugged Case for Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max
Nomad Rugged Case Review

Nomad started make accessories around 2012, the first product being a Kickstarter Crowd Funding project of an ‘ultraportable charging cable.’ Since then the company has excelled and is now considered one of the top manufactures of premium mobile phone cases.

Their leather cases are highly reviewed and since this year and Apple having ceased manufacture of leather cases for the new iPhone 15 range Nomad has become one of the most written about and reviewed leather case manufacturers.

However, this review is not about leather. This review focuses on the Nomad Rugged Case.

The official description of the case is :


Surprisingly light in hand, Rugged Case protects your iPhone from all angles with a durable polycarbonate frame and fortified corner bumpers. 

  • Durable TPU bumpers and camera ring
  • Polycarbonate frame with PET backplate
  • Anodized aluminum buttons
  • 15ft drop protection
  • Dual lanyard attachment points
  • MagSafe & wireless charging compatible

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Fusso F7 Liquid Wax Review :

Fusso F7 Liquid Wax Review :

Soft 99 Logo

With winter fast approaching it is now a good idea to give your motorcycles and cars a thorough winter clean.

  • Why you may ask?
  • To protect your paintwork from the harshness of winter. The increased road grime, the harsh temperature variations and the dreaded road salt that will eat and destroy everything that it can. (If you are an all year biker then In relation to road salt this is even more important for you and you really need to look at anti-corrosion protection for your machine. My personal recommendation is ACF-50, but that process will be covered in another post.). Now is the time to get ready for the attack of winter.
  • What should I do?
  • Deep clean and protect. Take the time now to do a little hard work to make your maintenance throughout the winter that little bit easier.

Fusso F7

This is not meant to be a detailed post on how to wash your car, so if you have any questions please feel free to comment below this post but here is what I recommend to get yourself winter ready – the final step uses Fusso F7 – and the review you came here for.

One of the best pieces of advice I can give is do nothing in direct sunlight or when the paint is hot.

  1. Snowfoam – to remove any obvious dirt and grime and soften what remains on the paint.
  2. Citrus Spray – to remove or soften any bugs and other road grim.
  3. Thoroughly rinse, if you notice a large amount of grime being removed a second dousing of snow foam would do no harm.
  4. Wheels and tyres can be addressed as the snow foam dwells.
  5. Wash using a wash mitt – using the two bucket method, one bucket contains your suds of choice, the other is for washing and rinsing your mitt. Do one panel at a time and rinse your mat thoroughly between each panel.
  6. Decontaminate – what you need to do here will vary by car, but you may benefit from clay, tar removal etc.
  7. Rinse thorouhly.
  8. Dry. A car dryer is ideal – and screw fix sell a vacuum cleaner that also blows for about £35. It is a bargain and an absolute must if you plan on doing similar with your motorcycle.
  9. At this point I decided to polish the car using Autoglym Super Resin Polish. I didn’t need to clay, or use a tar / spot removal product and Autoglym SRP is now often overlooked for some of the more influencer heavy brands, but don’t underestimate this product. It is an absolute essential for any garage shelf!
  10. That was me ready to try Fusso F7.

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2023 Classic Bike Festival Ireland Review

2023 Classic Bike Festival Ireland Review :

2023 Classic Bike Festival Ireland Review
2023 Classic Bike Festival Ireland Review

The 2023 Classic Bike Festival Ireland ran over the weekend of 5th and 6th August 2023.

In summary, the event was exceptional.

Sunday 6th August 2023 :

I was unlucky, in that I was only able to visit on the Sunday, but the overall set up was excellent. I have also heard and read only positive things for the live entertainment on the Friday and Saturday evenings and on may arrival on Sunday I couldn’t help but feel a little jealous of all the campers and campervans that were parked up for the weekend and had had the opportunity to enjoy the previous evenings’ entertainment.

As for the Sunday event. It was great. From things getting underway at around 09:30 am there was rarely a time that there was not bikes on the circuit, and there is the secret to a good biking event – get bikes out there and keep things moving.

The only noticeable break, was for lunch, and I am a big fan of how Bishopscourt plans a lunch break, it means you don’t have to decide what session you are going to miss.

Paddock, parade laps and racing…

A quick walk through the paddock early on Sunday morning was a mixture of bikes getting prepped and bacon baps getting made. Bacon, brown sauce and fumes… What more do you want on a Sunday morning?

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Michelin Anakee Adventure : Long Term Review

Michelin Anakee Adventure : Long Term Review

Michelin Awake Adventure

Michelin Anakee Adventure Tyres (on a 2010 BMW R1200GSA) :

This is a long term review of the Michelin Anakee Adventure Tyres, which replaced my Metzeler Tourances.  Those Metzeler tyres were exceptional and were available at the point of changing so why, you make ask did you change from what you liked and clearly worked for you?  The answer to that is simply marketing. At the time I changed to these Michelins they were the stock tyre for the R1200GSA and then for the new R1250GS model range. So if you bought a new bike from BMW these are the tyres that came on a new bike and I wanted to try them out.  The power of marketing and brand awareness, eh. 

TOP : Metzeler Tourance / BOTTOM : Michelin Awake Adventure
TOP : Metzeler Tourance / BOTTOM : Michelin Awake Adventure

The Michelin Anakee Adventure is currently the OE tyre choice for the following :

BMW MOTORRAD : R1250 GS
KTM : 790 Adventure, 390 Adventure
MOTO GUZZI : V85 TT
TRIUMPH : Street Scrambler, Tiger 850 Sport, Tiger 900 GT


You can read the Long Term Review of the Metzeler Tourance Tyres here. 


I put 10,290 miles on these Michelin tyres and at the point of change the rear was on the wear markers and there was still a reasonable amount of usable tread on the front. 

Michelin Awake Adventure : Wear and Tear after 10,290 miles
Metzeler Tourance at Point of Change

If you are looking to know the crux of this review, then here it is.  They are decent but there are better options.  Read to the end to see what I replaced them with and my initial impressions. No cheating though please. Don’t be jumping to the end of the review just yet. 

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G-Shock GA-140BMC-1AER ‘Tokyo Neo’ Review :

G-Shock GA-140BMC-1AER ‘Tokyo Neo’ Review :

G-Shock GA-140BMC-1AER 'Tokyo Neo' Review
G-Shock GA-140BMC-1AER ‘Tokyo Neo’ Review

The GA-140-BMC-1AER: A Bold Fusion of Style and Innovation :

Released in August 2019 in Japan, the Black x Neon Series includes four G-Shock watches with blacked-out bezels and neon hands and accents. The matte black bezels represent the night and the yellow, red, and blue neon accents represent the lights that evoke “Neo Tokyo City.” The theme brings to mind the classic 1988 anime film Akira, which takes place in the year 2019 and was promoted with the tagline “Neo-Tokyo is about to explode.” According to Wikipedia, Neo Tokyo” is a common name for a fictional futuristic version of Tokyo often depicted in manga, anime, and video games.”

The Power of Black:

At first glance, the GA-140-BMC-1AER immediately captures our imagination with its sleek and formidable appearance. Drawing inspiration from the urban streetwear scene, this model exudes an air of confidence and undeniable style. The bold black color scheme, synonymous with the G-Shock legacy, creates a striking contrast against the vibrant red accents, resulting in a timepiece that demands attention.

Digital Meets Analog:

One of the defining features of the GA-140-BMC-1AER is its unique hybrid display. This model elegantly combines the best of both worlds, blending analog and digital elements seamlessly. The three-dimensional hands, coated in luminous material, effortlessly glide across the dial, ensuring optimal legibility in any lighting condition. Meanwhile, the digital display offers a wealth of information, including time, date, and a handy stopwatch feature.

Unmatched Durability:

As with all G-Shock timepieces, the GA-140-BMC-1AER excels in durability, making it an ideal companion for the adventurous at heart. Its robust construction incorporates Casio’s signature shock resistance technology, providing protection against impacts and vibrations. The watch is also water-resistant up to 200 meters, ensuring reliability in the face of the elements.

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G-Shock Dragon Ball Z GA-110JDB-1A4ER Review and Unboxing.

G-Shock Dragon Ball Z GA-110JDB-1A4ER Review and Unboxing.

G-Shock Dragon Ball Z GA-110JDB-1A4ER Review and Unboxing

Unleash Your Inner Saiyan with the Casio G-Shock GA-110JDB-1A4ER Dragon Ball Z Collaboration

Introduction :

Greetings, watch enthusiasts and Dragon Ball Z fans alike! Today, we have a truly epic timepiece that brings together two iconic forces in their respective realms. The Casio G-Shock GA-110JDB-1A4ER Dragon Ball Z Collaboration pays homage to the legendary anime series while upholding the G-Shock’s legacy of toughness and innovation. Join us as we dive into the rich heritage of G-Shock, explore the mesmerizing design of this special edition, and unravel the technical specifications that make it a must-have for fans and watch collectors.

G-Shock Heritage :

Before we embark on this fusion of anime and horology, let’s take a moment to appreciate the G-Shock’s remarkable heritage. Since its inception in 1983, the G-Shock line has revolutionized the watch industry with its unwavering commitment to durability, reliability, and functionality. Built to withstand the most extreme conditions, G-Shock timepieces have earned a cult following among adventurers, athletes, and watch enthusiasts alike.

Design:

The Casio G-Shock GA-110JDB-1A4ER Dragon Ball Z Collaboration is a visual masterpiece that pays tribute to the beloved characters and epic battles of the Dragon Ball Z series. The watch features a vibrant orange and black color scheme reminiscent of Goku’s iconic Gi. The dragon ball motif adorns both the dial and the band, with the famous four-star dragon ball prominently displayed at the 3 o’clock position.

Technical Specifications :

Beneath its captivating exterior, the GA-110JDB-1A4ER boasts a multitude of features that enhance its functionality and usability. Let’s dive into its technical prowess:

  1. Shock Resistance: As a member of the G-Shock family, this timepiece can withstand the harshest impacts and shocks, making it perfect for active lifestyles.
  2. Water Resistance: The GA-110JDB-1A4ER offers water resistance up to 200 meters (660 feet), allowing you to confidently explore aquatic adventures without worry.
  3. World Time: With its multi-time zone functionality, this watch enables you to keep track of the time in different regions simultaneously, making it an ideal companion for globetrotters.
  4. Stopwatch and Countdown Timer: The watch features a built-in stopwatch and countdown timer, allowing you to measure elapsed time and set reminders with ease.
  5. LED Illumination: Equipped with an automatic LED backlight, the GA-110JDB-1A4ER ensures excellent visibility in any lighting condition, day or night.

Collaboration Highlights :

This special collaboration between Casio G-Shock and Dragon Ball Z celebrates the anime’s rich universe and characters. The dragon ball-inspired packaging adds an extra layer of excitement for fans, making the unboxing experience truly unforgettable.

Conclusion :

The Casio G-Shock GA-110JDB-1A4ER Dragon Ball Z Collaboration seamlessly blends the worlds of anime and horology, resulting in a timepiece that captures the hearts of both watch enthusiasts and Dragon Ball Z fans. Its robust construction, striking design elements, and impressive array of technical features make it a coveted collector’s item and a unique expression of personal style. So, embrace your inner Saiyan, don this legendary watch, and let it accompany you on your adventures as you conquer challenges with the spirit of Goku himself.

G-Shock Dragon Ball Z GA-110JDB-1A4ER

Official G-Shock GA-110JDB-1A4ER Product Page


If buying one of these watches make sure to do your due diligence and check that the item you are buying is not a fake. Genuine sellers should be able to authentic their purchase with a Casio invoice and high resolution images of every part of the watch. The watch pictured below is absolutely genuine, bought on release date from Casio – so feel free to use these images as a point of reference.

(Scroll to the bottom past the unboxing gallery for full product specifications).


GA-110JDB-1A4ER Real World Unboxing Gallery :

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Breitling Avenger Hurricane 24hr (50mm) Review :

Breitling Avenger Hurricane 24hr (50mm) Review :

Breitling Avenger Hurricane Key Features

Introduction :

Welcome to the world of extreme horology, where precision meets adventure. Today, we delve into the realm of high-performance timepieces with the remarkable Breitling Avenger Hurricane 24hr (50mm). Designed to withstand the most demanding conditions, this exceptional watch combines rugged durability with extraordinary technical prowess. Join us as we embark on a thrilling journey exploring the remarkable features and design elements that make this timepiece a true force to be reckoned with.

Design :

The Breitling Avenger Hurricane 24hr (50mm) exemplifies the brand’s commitment to robustness and resilience. Its imposing 50mm case is crafted from a revolutionary material known as Breitlight®. This innovative high-tech composite is not only incredibly lightweight but also significantly more resistant to scratches, corrosion, and magnetic fields compared to traditional materials like stainless steel. The result is a watch that can handle the most demanding environments without compromising on comfort.

The dial of the Hurricane Avenger is a masterclass in legibility. The bold Arabic numerals and oversized hands, all treated with luminescent coating, ensure optimal readability even in low-light situations. The time is displayed in a 24-hour format, making it ideal for professionals who operate in time zones where the conventional 12-hour format may not suffice.

Technical Specifications :

The Avenger Hurricane 24hr (50mm) houses Breitling’s in-house Caliber B24, a self-winding mechanical movement renowned for its precision and reliability. With a power reserve of approximately 70 hours, this movement guarantees accurate timekeeping throughout extended adventures. The watch also boasts chronometer certification from COSC (Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute), a testament to its exceptional accuracy.

Water-resistant to an astounding 100 meters (330 feet), the Avenger Hurricane fearlessly takes on water-related activities without missing a beat. The non-screw-locked crown and two gaskets ensure water ingress is kept at bay, providing peace of mind during aquatic endeavours.

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2022 Cookstown 100 Results

2022 Cookstown 100 Results :

2022 Cookstown 100 Results

Words and images to follow.


2022 Cookstown 100 Results :


Race Results : Friday 22nd April 2022:

Race 1 (Fri): Mid-Ulster District Council Supersport B

Race 2 (Fri): Super Seal Windows Senior Support B

Race 3 (Fri): Steelweld Fabrications Open B Restart


Race Results : Saturday 11th September 2021:

Race 1: Super Seal Windows Senior Support A

Race 2: Keylite Lintels/Loughran Commercials Moto 3/Supersport 300

Race 3: Royal Hotel Lightweight Supersport/250GP/Post-Classic

Race 4: Mid-Ulster District Council Supersport A

Race 5: Hayes Fuels/Cookstown & DMCC MX Supertwin/Supermono B

Race 6: Hayes Fuels/Cookstown & DMCC MX Supertwin/Supermono A Restart

Race 7: JMB Coaches/Bill Eastwood Contracts Junior Support A

Race 8: JMB Coaches/Bill Eastwood Contracts Junior Support B

Race 9: Steelweld Fabrications Open A Restart

Race 10: McKinstry Skip Hire Junior Classic A

Race 11: McKinstry Skip Hire Junior Classic B

Race 12: KDM Hire Cookstown 100 B

Race 13: Skegness Raceway Senior Classic :

Race 14: KDM Hire Cookstown 100 A 2nd Part :


Keep up with all the latest News on the Official Cookstown 100 Facebook Group, the Official Cookstown 100 Twitter Feed and the Official Cookstown 100 website.  

The TBNI Road Racing Calendar will be updated as soon as new information comes to light so make sure you are subscribed to that : https://tbni.blog/road-racing-calendar/

You will also find new information as soon as it is available through the TBNI Facebook Page and TBNI Twitter Feed

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