CyclingPlusAugust2015 PDF

EXCLUSIVE We road test the new Supersix Evo first!
23 YEARS OF TRUSTED EXPERT REVIEWS
AERO
BIKES
TESTED
SH O E
SHOOTaOirUs T !
16 p
rated
15
We race them and

then we rate them!
Habits of
successful
cyclists
REVEALED
THE WORLDS
TOUGHEST RIDES
PLUS In pursuit of
the cyclists high
STEEL
RULES
Lock it or lose it
Why metal still works
We pick 14 of the best locks!
GRADE EXPECTATIONS
We take GTs latest off road
Issue 304 + August 2015
LOSE WEIGHT, NOT SPEED
Essential training advice
NEW RIDERS MAGAZINE!
Tap here for your free guide
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If you want
to take your riding
to the next level
check out our top 10
toughest rides,
from page 170
CONTENTS
AUGUST FEATURES
15 HABITS OF SUCCESSFUL
CYCLISTS
104
Discover what you

can learn from top
cyclists habits and traits
to see you performing at
your best
MAKING THE GRADE
162
We take GTs
Grade off the
beaten track for a bothy
bike adventure in the
Scottish Highlands
RIDING HIGH
TOP 10 TOUGHEST
CYCLING EVENTS
112
170
Whatever you call

it, the high, the rush
or being in the zone, we
look at the science behind
achieving the buzz you
get on your bike
Certain to get you

out of your comfort
zones, consider an extreme
riding challenge including
crossing Russia, America
and climbing Mt Ventoux
CYCLING PLUS | August 2015 | 11
80
We test the latest

kit including Madisons
Mission glasses
50
140
Not to be outdone by
carbon, these steel bikes
have still got what it takes
Keep your bike secure
GEAR & BIKE REVIEWS

FIRST RIDES
18
Read our thoughts on

Cannondales SuperSix
Evo, Norcos Valence SL
Ultegra, Treks Emonda SLR
6 and Sensas Giulia, plus
Dolans ltape versus
Calibres Nibiru 2.0
BIKE TEST STEEL A DEAL
50
carriers, saddles, drinking

bottles and lots more
OUR BIKES
100
Technical writer
Robin has fun on his
Trek 920 and tech hub ops
ed Simon is reacquainted
with his Orbea Avant M30D
BIKE TEST AERO RIDES
Six steel bikes go head

to head to discover if
the retro material still has
performance prowess
A lap of Majorca was

the testing ground for
our four aero machines
NEW KIT
GEAR GUIDE SECURITY
80
The latest kit tried and

tested including cycle
VIB
With Boardman
claiming big
performance gains,
we get up close
and personal with
its ultimate time
trial weapon,
the Air TTE 9.8
Di2 DA. 96
12 | August 2015 | CYCLING PLUS
131
140
PERFORMANCE
SHOES
Weve rounded up 16
pairs of cycling shoes
to help you find the
ideal ones to transfer
your power and keep
your feet happy
when putting in
the miles 118
Locks and chains to

keep your bike safe
COLUMN! Ned Boulting p210
EVERY MONTH
30
Taking sportive organising

lessons from the Italians; three
scenic routes around Assynt in northwest Scotland, discovering comedian
Michael Smileys passion for cycling;
the essential kit to get your kids on
their bikes; plus why you want to rub
on some Muc-Off!
151
Master your heart rate training

zones; discover the best foods
for faster recovery; get your bar all
wrapped up with new tape; fix your
seat clamp if your saddle and post
part company; build great glutes;
train for long distance rides; lose
weight not power and more...
183
As the privately-run
Gloucester Services opens,
we head out from there for a ride
through the countryside, enjoy the
inaugural Velothon Wales and Enervit
Tour of Cambridgeshire plus give
you the heads up on the events
to try out in August
Our Price Promise team do all the legwork

to get you the best prices. Guaranteed.
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WELCOME
FREE
TOPEAK RACE
ROCKET HPX PUMP
WHEN YOU
SUBSCRIBE,
P98
FROM THE EDITOR...
Over the years Ive become acutely aware that I need regular
exercise. Its not because a few days off the bike sees my weight sky
rocket, or my Strava times slip. No, if I dont ride, run or Zumba I
become irritable, slightly more anxious than normal and less fun
to be around. Get back on the bike, though, and I feel better as soon
as I start pedalling and that warm, fuzzy feeling continues long
after Ive showered and stretched. (Okay, I dont really stretch)
And that positivity is greatest after a particularly fast session, or a
long, gruelling climb-fest. This got me thinking is there a
cyclists high? Runners certainly get one, so surely we can have
one too! Turn to page 112 to find out.
Rob Spedding, Editor-in-Chief

MY TOP TIPS FROM THE ISSUE
Dont scrimp on
your security
Considering how
much we spend on
bikes, its surprising
how many of us
penny pinch when
it comes to locks. I
know I have! Our
lock test on p140
shows that money
can buy a little
peace of mind
Some habits are

worth adopting
Were never going
to be pro cyclists,
but that doesnt
mean we cant
adopt the good
habits that deliver
success. Weve
gathered 15 of
them on p104, so
swap out one of
your bad ones
Cycling can be
very challenging
Some days my
30-mile round
commute can feel
like the hardest
thing you can do
on a bike It isnt,
and on p170 weve
found 10 events
that make Bath to
Bristol and back
look easy!
Perhaps its time

to look backwards
When I were a lad,
the best bikes were
all made of steel.
Today, carbon rules
the roost but Ive
got to say Im now
sorely tempted to
add a steel steed to
my collection. Turn
to page 50 and
youll see why
Look out for

our Most Wanted
award. We only give
this to gear that
really deserves
your attention
THE UKS BEST TESTS

BUYING ADVICE YOU CAN TRUST
Here at Cycling Plus we take our testing seriously and have

been putting road cycling products through their paces for 23
years. Our test team, led by senior technical editor Warren
Rossiter, is the best in the business. Theyve got decades of
cycling experience between them and know what makes a
good and bad bike, accessory, gadget or garment. That
means you can trust us to bring you honest assessments of
every product we feature. If it gets our seal of approval then
you can be sure that youll be bagging a great buy!
First Ride sees our

test team bring
you their first
impressions of the
most exciting new
bikes available. As
soon as theyre out,
were riding!
Before you buy a

bike, you want to
know how it stacks
up against its rivals
and thats where
Road Test comes
in. Each month we
compare six bikes
Theres a plethora
of new gadgets and
gear tempting you
to part with your
cash. New Kit is
where well tell you
whats worth
splashing out on
To make the best

buying decision
you need products
tested in context.
Our Gear Guide is
where we put the
gear you need
through its paces
THIS MONTHS TESTERS PREVIEW THEIR ISSUE HIGHLIGHTS
We dont just test

bikes and send
them back some
are here for the
long haul. Find out
what our favourite
rides are like to live
with in Our Bikes
RATINGS
EXPLAINED
+++++
EXCEPTIONAL
A genuine class leader
++++
VERY GOOD
One of the best you can buy
+++
FIRST RIDES
ROAD TESTS & NEW KIT
FIRST RIDES & NEW KIT
This months been about

the new Cannondale
SuperSix Evo, securing the
world exclusive test. The
original was a masterpiece,
see if Cannondales made
its best better on p18.
Warren Rossiter,
senior technical editor
Its been a busy month for

me testing six steel rides in
Yorkshire, and trying out
the latest aero offerings
around Majorca. Finding
the right footwear was key
for my big test, from p118.
Guy Kesteven,
technical writer
I finally got to try out the

much-lauded Trek
monda this month, along
with some rather special
carbon climbing wheels
from DT Swiss that cost
more than my car.
Matthew Allen,
technical writer
GOOD
Itll do the job very well
++
BELOW AVERAGE
Flawed in some way
POOR
Simply put, dont bother
WE MADE
THE GRADE!
We knew we had a winner on our hands
as soon as we rode the new GT Grade,
but we didnt expect it to smash the more
established road brands in the 2015
Cycling Plus Bike Of The Year Awards.
Cycling Plus gave it their Best Debut award
and said, Its a genre-busting bike like no
other a brilliant, brilliant all rounder.
Ride one today at your local dealer
IVLVLW]\_PMZM\PMZWIL
to nowhere can take you
GRADE CARBON 105 - 1,999.99

START YOUR ADVENTURE AT GTBICYCLES.COM/GOROGUE
T
S
R
I
F
RIDE
SPECIFICATION
Weight 7kg (56cm)
Frame BallisTec
Hi-Mod carbon
Fork BallisTec
Hi-Mod carbon
Gears Shimano
Ultegra 6800,
11-28, 52/36
Brakes Shimano
Ultegra 6800
Wheels: Mavic
Ksyrium
Finishing kit
Cannondale
Hollowgram Si
chainset with
8-arm Spider ring,
Cannondale C1
Ultralight stem and
compact 7050 alloy
bar, Fizik Arione RS
saddle, Cannondale
25.4mm Save
carbon post, 25mm
Mavic Yksion tyres
CANNONDALE
SUPERSIX
EVO HI-MOD
ULTEGRA
Peter Sagan may have
won back-to-back
Tour green jerseys on
his old SuperSix Evo,
but that hasnt stopped
Cannondales designers doing an allnew, ground-up redesign for 2016. The
result is lighter and, inevitably, claimed
to be both stiffer and more compliant.
For good measure Cannondale also
reckons to have improved the Evos
aerodynamics. A neat balancing act
Surprisingly the frame is a tad
heavier than before (777g for a 56cm
compared with 760g), but the overall
system weight is 70g lower, thanks to
a lighter headset, new seatpost and a
much lighter fork weighing just 280g.
Cannondale has learnt lessons from
its Synapse endurance bike to up the
Evos vertical compliance. It doesnt
have the Synapses Power Pyramid,
but it has a lighter, slimmed-down
25.4mm seatpost and a slender seattube, which is designed to flex for more
comfort, before flaring hugely at a
Robert Smith
3000(TBC) Cannondales
all-new pro race rig
FIR ST
RI DE
Below Cannondale trimmed 14g

from the headset by integrating the
lower crown race into the fork Bottom The
new lightweight Si Spider ring chainset works
very well with Ultegra, offering slick shifting
The new Evo green

machine may not look
that different, but it
has been completely
redesigned for 2016
HIGHS
shell housing the new, wider BB30a
bottom bracket. Drivetrain rigidity
is up by a claimed 8.8 per cent. Oh,
and though not an aero road bike,
Cannondale has used (acronym
alert!) TAP, or Truncated Aero
Profile tubing, which it says saves
70g of drag. This sounds like the
UCI-friendly Kamm tail to us, which
is de rigueur on aero road bikes.
We tested an Ultegra- and
Ksyrium-equipped Hi-Mod, figuring
that Cannondale will sell more of
these than super-high-end Evos.
The ride felt familiar straightaway,
but then we noticed the differences.
The stiff front end means direction
changes are met with an enthralling,
intoxicating, instant response, the
Evo hitting its mark every time.
Bikes this responsive can become a
little nervous or twitchy, but the Evo
never got to that point. It allowed us
not only to get to our limit on
descents, but also to hit PBs on more
technical downhill sections.
Stunning handling
infused with
compliant comfort
LOWS
Hard to fault any
aspect of kit or ride
BUY IF
You want your
next bike to blend
a race-ready ride
position with
superb comfort
This improved stiffness is what

youd expect of a bike designed to
win sprints and ascend and descend
with the best. The surprise, though,
is just how smooth the Evo feels,
something that full-on race bikes
arent always known for. All this was
on our usual pitted, potholed roads,
not the super-smooth European
tarmac thats the usual home
for bike launches, and it tackled
everything with equal aplomb.
Cannondale really has succeeded
in combining the coddling comfort
of the Synapse with the speedster
performance of the earlier Evo. Our
model came with 25mm tyres, but
the bike can take 28mm rubber if
you want further plushness.
THE VERDICT
An evolution of an already excellent machine,
but the improvements are worth every penny
We expected the back end to do

the job as soon as we saw the seattube and post, but add in chainstays
and seatstays that are made from a
single piece of carbon fibre, and the
whole rear end feels active. Its not
as smooth as Treks Domane, but it
still does a superb job over even the
roughest road surfaces, exuding a
great sense of balance. The fork felt
so compliant that we took the Evo
for a four-mile run-out over
military gravel roads. Even on these
it felt controlled and easy to handle.
We are very impressed with the
new Evo. It has retained the DNA of
the previous model while adding
comfort and stiffness, improving
handling and creating a superlative
all-rounder. If you are looking for a
bike with genuine racing geometry
infused with the comfort of an
endurance machine, the new Evo
in whatever spec should be very
high on your list.
FIRST
RIDE
SPECIFICATION
THREE THINGS WE
LOVE ABOUT THE...
NORCO
VALENCE SL
ULTEGRA
1750
WEIGHT 7.5kg
(58cm)
FRAME Carbon
FORK Carbon
GEARS Shimano
Ultegra, 50/34,
11-32
BRAKES Tektro
Quartz
WHEELS Easton
EA70
FINISHING KIT
Continental
Gransport 25mm
tyres, Fizik Antares
saddle, Norco
Compact Lite alu
bar, Norco Lite
stem, Norco Lite
composite seatpost
It handles
The low-slung sloping frame design
allows you to really move the bike
around. It may be classed as an
endurance bike but it retains a classic
72.5/73 degrees head and seat angle
combination, a reasonable length
reach and its only around 10mm taller
than a race bike. Its longer wheelbase
adds stability that counters the front
ends sharpness to create a bike thats
poised for long days, but nimble
enough to allow you to cut through
bends and descend at speed.
The frame is top drawer

Norco uses high-modulous carbon
chassis on this sub-2000 model. It
makes the bike light for its price at
7.5kg for a size 58cm. The lightness
translates into a machine happy to hit
the hills. Norcos engineered plenty of
compliance too, so the SL feels smooth
on all but the worst surfaces. The back
end is supple thanks to the low-slung
top-tube and huge expanse of
unsupported carbon seatpost.
The package is top notch

At 1750 for an Ultegra-equipped bike
wed expect a few compromises, and
alarm bells rang when we saw the nonShimano brakes. However, it was a
surprise to find that the Tektro Quartz
brakes had heaps of power and rigidity,
and have great pads. The lever feel is a
bit on the hard side, but you adapt. The
other area we usually see compromise
is wheels, but Norco scores with the
dependable Easton EA70s shod with
excellent 25mm Continental tyres.
We like the bars shape and compact

drop but its overly stiff when riding
on poor surfaces. An upgrade to
something classy and carbon would
set the SL up as one of the best
performing endurance bikes around.
Robert Smith
ONE THING WED CHANGE

Call time on the bar
S-WORKS VENGE
It took more than four years to create the S-Works Venge, and the result
is the fastest bike weve ever made. Getting here took dedicating
ourselves to redefining the shape, structure, and theory of speed,
which led us to building our own Win Tunnel during its development.
We exhausted engineers and aerodynamicists as we tested hundreds
of prototypes. The payoff, however, is that every element of the bike
is painstakingly constructed to be faster. The zero-drag brakes, the
Aerofly ViAS cockpit, and the Rider-First Engineered framesetthey
all work in harmony to ensure that the Venge is not only the fastest
road bike in the world, but also the best handling, best feeling bike on
the road.
specialized.com/5minutes
120 seconds over 40km
FIR ST
RI DE
TREK EMONDA SLR 6

4300 The superbike frameset in a
(slightly) more affordable package
Launched last year
when it was claimed
to be the worlds
lightest production
bike, Treks monda
is a genuine race machine built to
weigh as little as humanly possible.
The SLR 6 gets the same 700 series
chassis thats at the heart of the
4.5kg SLR 10, which costs 11,000.
A 56cm SLR frame weighs a claimed
690g, and given our 52cm test bike
came in at 6.5kg with an aluminium
cockpit and clinchers, and Shimanos
Ultegra groupset, we can believe that.
The tubeless-ready wheels have an
up-to-date 23mm wide rim section,
the Ultegra shifting is faultless and
the direct-mount brakes are very
effective. The finishing kit works well
and looks good too. The Bontrager
saddle is bolted to a seatmast cap
that sits on the integrated seatpost.
This is lighter than a full-on
seatmast, doesnt require a hacksaw
and also offers 10cm of adjustability.
Elsewhere the frameset is equally

modern, featuring internal cabling
and Treks trademark BB90 bottom
bracket. Its tube profiles, however,
are reminiscent of Madones from
years past. There are no Kamm tail
sections, no aero tweaks, and Trek
makes no claims about the mondas
aerodynamics. Instead, its all
curves, and its all really rather nice.
The monda is available in Treks
aggressive H1 geometry and the
slightly more moderate H2 we tested,
our 52cm model having a 534mm toptube and 140mm head-tube. Either
way, were in the realm of racers,
and the bike is eminently flickable,
changing line effortlessly. In spite
of its weight the frame is hugely
THE VERDICT
A phenomenal climber whose firm ride is best
suited to racers and heavyweight bruisers
stiff, and power transfer is fantastic,

making climbing an absolute joy.
Perhaps its a consequence of the
integrated seatpost and the straight
bladed fork, but the monda isnt
that forgiving you can feel the
surface beneath your wheels and
potholed lanes can be wearing. The
23mm tyres dont help, though
there is room for fatter rubber, but
in any case its a machine that will
suit those who aim to ride fast all the
time, not cruisers eyeing comfort.
Ours is a weight-obsessed sport,
and yet there are countless 10kg
bikes that are delightful rides. And
nobody needs to spend over four
grand on a UCI-challenging road
bike, but at the same time it is a
real pleasure to ride something this
light. When youre out of the saddle
and throwing the bike from side to
side doing your worst impression of
Alberto Contador, the monda feels
almost massless and its hard to
put a price on that.
Robert Smith
SPECIFICATION
Weight 6.5kg
(52cm)
Frame monda SLR
Ultralight 700
Series OCLV carbon
Fork monda full
carbon
Gears Shimano
Ultegra 50/34,
11-28
Brakes Bontrager
Speed Stop
Wheels Bontrager
Race Lite TLR
Finishing kit
Bontrager Race X
Lite stem, Race Lite
VR bar, Ride Tuned
Carbon seatmast
cap, Paradigm RL
saddle, 23mm
Bontrager R3 HardCase Lite tyres
You too can go Dutch

if you take Sensas
Giulia for a ride
With an
absence of
any aerodynamic
features, this is a
bike for those who
value low weight
over everything else
The Bontrager
direct-mount
brakes may look
complicated,
but theyre light
and offer decent
stopping power too
The Bontrager
Paradigm RL
saddle sits on an
integrated seatpost,
which saves a few
precious grams over
a standard item
HIGHS
Incredible weight;
sensible spec with
no real weak links
LOWS
Firm ride quality
wont suit all;
23mm tyres as
standard
BUY IF
Youve got climbs
to conquer and
smooth roads
to ride
SENSA GIULIA
1680 > No Sensa, no feeling
If you were asked to define a typical Dutch
road bike, Sensas Giulia would be pretty
close. In a land famed for lanky, crosswindconquering rouleurs, bikes are built tough and fast.
With chunky carbon frame tubes, beefy
asymmetric chainstays and a 1.5in lower headset
bearing, the Giulia can handle the knocks. Its no
wafty endurance machine, as its idea of terrain
smoothing is to steamroller a path straight through
it. Thats not to say its harsh, because although its a
firm ride, something the super-comfy San Marco
Aspide saddle helps to offset, its
purposeful and not jarring.
The press-fit 86 bottom
bracket
shell and adjoining tubes
SPECIFICATION
Weight 8.05kg (M)
are vast and help turn your watts
Frame Generation
in to thrust, and when youre on
5 UD carbon
the rivet, youre aided by Dedas
monocoque
excellent bar. The frame is Di2
Fork Supra
Generation 5
ready, but our mechanical
carbon monocoque
Ultegra was typically faultless,
1.5
even if the 11-25 cassette caused
Gears Shimano
Ultegra, 50/34,
a couple of steep hill heaves.
11-25
Supras RA Pro wheelset is oldBrakes Shimano
school narrow and 30mm tall,
Ultegra
Wheels Supra RA
but tough as old boots and keen
Pro
to make progress, while the
Finishing kit Deda
23mm Schwalbe Luganos are
RHM01 aluminium
bar, Deda Zero1
useful on filthy days. An almost
aluminium stem,
constant rattle over rough
Supra Speed Line
surfaces from the internal
aluminium
seatpost, San
cabling, and a hollow twang
Marco Aspide
when we shifted gear were the
saddle, 23mm
only annoyances from a
Schwalbe Lugano
thoroughly sound package.
tyres
THE VERDICT
Ultegra weighs a tad more
than Dura-Ace but its
close to it in performance
As a no-nonsense race machine, the Giulia

has plenty to offer, if youre tough enough
FIR ST
RI DE
!
T
U
O
T
SHOO
Set your sights on
carbon? We put two 1000
rides mano a mano
DOLAN LTAPE
999.99
The ltapes frameset is standard entry-level carbon
fare, with a hefty frame and a fork with an alloy steerer.
Its nicely finished though, with internal cables that get
the job done. The frame is BB30, but Dolan fits a
standard bottom bracket with an adaptor.
The Dolan isnt a live wire, but it delivers a decent ride.

Its a little lacking in stiffness under power and it
certainly doesnt have the razor sharpness of costlier
mounts, but a skinny seatpost even in aluminium
and moderately compliant rear end make for a pleasant
ride quality even on 23mm rubber.
Vs
CALIBRE NIBIRU 2.0

1004.99
Whats in a
frame?
The Nibiru has a fairly heavy carbon frame, a full carbon

fork and a BB86 bottom bracket. The internal cabling
looks good, but it isnt well executed, with braking and
shifting both not quite up to par as a result, and a rear
brake cable that rattles in the top-tube over bumps.
Easy rider
Its ride quality that really matters, and the Nibiru was
a disappointment. It handles well enough, but feels
dull and lifeless, flexing noticeably under hard
pedalling. Its not all that comfortable either, thanks
to a stout 31.6mm aluminium seatpost and a generally
wooden chassis.
SPECIFICATION
Weight 8.38kg (M)
Frame Carbon
Fork Carbon,
aluminium steerer
Gears SRAM Rival
22, 50/34, 11-28
Brakes SRAM Rival
Wheels Mavic
Aksium One
Finishing kit Deda
Zero1 stem, RHM01
bar, Alpina
27.2mm seatpost,
Selle Italia X1
saddle, 23mm
Vittoria Zaffiro
tyres
Its a competent rather than great

ride, but Dolan offers a fairly
rounded package, with a spec
that you can tweak to suit your
taste and budget. You can even
have full 105 at the same price.
Braking bad?
Buy it now
Instead of Shimano 105 brakes,

you get Tektro callipers here,
with one-piece pads that lack
bite. This is one of the kit issues
Calibres distributor is looking to
address as a result of this review.
There are plenty of brilliant

aluminum bikes at this price
and wed opt for one of these
over the Calibre. Youll be able
to find something lighter and
better specced.
Weight 8.54kg
(53cm)
Frame Carbon
Fork Full carbon,
tapered steerer
Gears Shimano
105, RS500
chainset, 50/34,
11-28
Brakes Tektro
R312
Wheels Shimano
RS11
Finishing kit
Ritchey 4 Axis
stem, Comp Logic
bar, 31.6mm
seatpost, Selle
Royal Seta saddle,
25mm Continental
Ultrasport tyres
Jesse Wild
SPECIFICATION
SRAMs Rival 22 isnt quite as
slick as Shimano 105, but Dolan
does give you a full groupset
including the cranks and the
matching brakes, which offer
plenty of stopping power.
THE BIG PICTURE
Steve Behr
HEAVENLY
VIEWS
As the highest road in Wales, the
Gospel Pass in the Black Mountains is
often bathed in rain and snow. When
we visited in June to photograph the
steel bikes reviewed in this issue (see
p50), however, the weather gods were
smiling on us and we got to see the
beautiful countryside at its very best.
CYCLING PLUS | March 2011 | 29
PEDAL-O-METER
Sometimes the winds at

your back, sometimes its
all uphill
CHANGING TACK?
After yet more sportive sabotage, Trevor Ward looks to Italy
for an example we can follow
losing a few dozen miles of

Sella Ronda Bike Day. It was, effectively, a
public road for the exclusive
closed-road sportive, but with several key
use of cyclists for a few hours
differences from a UK version: it was free to
shouldnt be as emotive as
enter and instead of feed stations handing
something like, say, war,
out water and fruit, stalls dispensed food and
death or One Direction. It should be a case of
wine, for free. Local businesses have chosen
one group of people shrugging and saying,
to embrace it rather than ignore it.
Thats a bit inconvenient, but I dont really
Admittedly, the area affected has a smaller
mind as I have plenty of notice so I can alter
population than that of Velothon Wales, but
my plans. Anyway, its only once a year.
its a major tourist destination for hikers,
While the majority of people do show
climbers and motorcyclists, so you
that level of tolerance, theres a
could argue potential impact to
minority who get so angry that
business is much higher.
Local councils
they hog the headlines rather
Soon after the first Bike Day
have capitalised on
than the cyclists and spectators
was
launched, restaurants and
demand by hosting
who relish the experience.
shops on the downhill sections
closed-road events
The latest example occurred
complained they were losing
that remain free
in June, during Velothon Wales.
business, because fastto enter
Some idiot throwing tacks on the
descending riders werent
road injuring several riders who
stopping, while those on the uphill
punctured and crashed was bad enough,
slopes were inundated. So in 2012,
but local MP Wayne David rubbed salt in their
organisers introduced a second version, with
wounds by saying the event had been a
the direction of travel reversed.
nightmare and he hoped it never returned.
The success of the Bike Days is partly to do
A couple of weeks later a small region of
with the popularity of the Maratona, which
Italy hosted three closed-road cycling events
attracts 35,000 applicants for 9000 places.
in the space of a fortnight. The events
Local councils have capitalised on that
involved the closing of 33, 42 and 82 miles of
demand by hosting closed-road events that
public road that link remote villages in the
remain free to enter, because the local
Alta Badia region of the Dolomite mountain
economy benefits. Imagine if a UK council
range. Not a single tack was thrown in anger.
came up with an idea as radical as that, one
The first two were Bike Days nonthat benefitted local businesses rather than
competitive, free events while the third
an international profit-making events
was one of Europes most popular sportives,
company? I know, what a nightmare.
the Maratona dles Dolomites, which has
being going since 1987. I was one of an
The next Sella Ronda Bike Day takes place on
estimated 20,000 riders who took part in the
13 September. Details at altabadia.org
HOT SHOTS
Madison-Genesis overhauled One
Pro Cycling in Bath to win the
2015 Pearl Izumi Tour Series. One
took some consolation, as Marcin
Bialoblocki won the round.
RAISE A GLASS
Santinis Bergamo factory powered
down in June to celebrate its 50th
birthday. Italian cycling legend
and close friend of founder Pietro
Santini, Felice Gimondi, was one of
the famous faces present.
CAST OUT
Lance Armstrong took flak for
signing up to Geoff Thomass Tour
charity ride, which he believes is
over the top: Im that character in
Harry Potter they cant talk about.
Voldemort? Im the one everybody
wants to pretend never lived.
BY GEORGE!
In March Nick Clegg announced
114m investment through
a scheme to improve cycling
infrastructure in eight British
cities. With the Lib Dems out of
government, George Osborne axed
20 per cent from the pledge.
GOING POSTAL
If disgraced US Postal mastermind
Johan Bruyneel was dipping his
toe in the water by showing up at
Sir Brads Hour record, he wont be
rushing to put his bathers on, if
Twitters outraged reaction is
any measure.
Illustrations: Mick Marston; Simon Spilsbury Images: Getty
THE SPIN
OUT WITH THE OLD...

Sir Bradley Wiggins might have
hung up his road wheels but the
future of British cycling looks in
capable hands with the young
Yates twins, as Simons top five in a
strong Dauphin field showed.
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This test relates to the X-LITE CRS-3100.
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These vessels carry more oxygen and
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cardiovascular performance.
Go further
TOPEAK HEXUS II
19.99
THE HEXUS II is well
shaped and features
16 tools including
2-8mm Allen keys and
Phillips and flat head
screwdrivers. The clipout tyre levers double
as side grips, on the
main body, plus you get
a universal chain tool,
spoke keys, and a T25
key, which is ideal for
disc brakes.
The Ultra Endurance UE balm

contains Amino Taurine, which
helps the body convert glycogen
into glucose to fuel your muscles.
Its claimed to increase the muscles
cell volume capacity for greater
muscle/protein synthesis. The
UE balm was developed to help
combat the build up of lactic acid
in the body that will help stave
off exhaustion.
Recover quicker
Amino RB recovery balm follows

the same Amino Patch Technology as
the EP and UE balms. It uses Amino
Glutamine, and Muc-Off claims this
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Think pink for
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OPINION
LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
ASSYNT, NORTH WEST SCOTLAND
nless youre lucky enough to live

here, Assynt is a long way from
anywhere. Even Ullapool is an
hours drive south, so it had
better be worth it when you get there.
Would we let you down? A stunning
landscape of lochs, beautiful beaches and
magnificent mountains, dominated by
Suilven, combine with winding roads to
make this corner of the British Isles a true
must-do for any serious cyclist.
ROUTE ONE
Assynt Ascents 65 miles Could this be
the most scenic ride in the UK?
The coastal single track past
Lochinver is known as The wee
mad road. Look out for blind
bends and summits as it twists.
Join the main road to Ullapool, up
and over to Loch Assynt, to the
start of the next major climb. Turn
right at Drumrunie for the grand
return via the foot of Stac Pollaidh.
Get the route
tinyurl.com/cplus-assynt
Share your local

knowledge
email cyclingplus@
immediate.co.uk
ROUTE TWO
ROUTE THREE
Mad Wee Ride 47 miles The best

views without so many hill climbs
A sawn-off version of the long
route, ideal for when daylights in
short supply, this time aiming
south from Lochinver. Bowl along
Loch Lurgainn to the A835 for easy
climbing through moorland and
mountain scenery. Sail down Glen
Loanan for a relatively forgiving
return along Loch Assynt.
Get the route
tinyurl.com/cplus-madride
Pollaidh Lolly 40 miles Outstanding

riding and incredible views
You could tag this lollipop-shaped
tour of the Coigach Peninsula onto
either of the other routes, or do it
as a ride in its own right. You have
to ride over Stac Pollaidhs big toe
to find a road touring shore and
lochs, passing through tiny
settlements. The views to the
Summer Isles are a highlight.
Get the route
tinyurl.com/cplus-coigach
INSIDER TIPS
HAVE BREAKFAST
Suzies Panini Van
Its not often a
mobile food stall
gets our nod,
but Suzie has
everything you
need to set you up
for the long day of
riding ahead, and a
view of the loch.
Where Main
Street, Lochinver
STOP FOR CAKES

Elphin Tea Rooms
With the biggest
climbs behind you,
Elphin Tea Rooms
is a welcome sight.
Scones, sponge,
sustaining fruit
cake and tea
served by your
friendly hosts.
Where
Elphin, Lairg
GET SPARE TUBES

Ullapool Bicycle
Repairs
A trip to Ullapool
and back for spares
could eat into your
day, but its good to
know theyre there
if you need them.
Where Unit 7b,
Latherton Centre,
Latheron Lane,
Ullapool
FANCY A PINT?
The Caberfeidh
Theres good
beer on handpull, and a tapas
menu or try
the famous pies
next door - we
recommend
the smoked
haddock.
Where Main
Street, Lochinver
THE FAMILY?
Achmelvich Beach
Around three miles
north of the town
youll find one of
Scotlands finest
beaches. Theres
soft, silver sand,
rocks and the
cleanest water in
a safe cove.
Where Achmelvich,
Lochinver
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Photo: Karen M Edwards
W W W . V ITUSB IK ES . COM
NEW GEAR
BIKE CURIOUS
SARTO 18K
S
arto was formed back in

1950 by Enrico Sarto in
Italy, and is now under
the guidance of his son
Antonio. In the past the companys
built custom steel and high-end
carbon bikes for some of the worlds
most reputable brands, but since
2010 its produced its own exclusive
models. This latest custom-carbon

creation is one of just 25.
Theres good reason for the
limited numbers when you look into
the finer details (and the
price). Each frame is individually
sized and the carbon layup tuned to
meet the riders needs. It also
features applied logos and details
crafted from solid 18 carat (18k)

gold, including a special medallion
bonded to the top-tube bearing the
owners initials.
The highly limited frame is POA
and a complete bike like this
Campagnolo Super Record EPSequipped one wouldnt leave you
with much change from 19,000!
The frame is
aerospace quality
carbon and each one
is hand built in Italy
Snappy looking
Zimbabwean
crocodile skin covers
the saddle
1
All the bling

details you see
are made from solid
18 carat gold
MICHAEL MATTHEWS
The Giro dItalia is one of the biggest
monuments and achievements for any pro
cyclist and to reach glory you have to
push yourself, time and time again. To
raise your hands up at the Giro
dItalia, there is no escape. You have
to sacrice, you have to
overcome the pain, and only
your legs will make the
difference to propel you in
Pink on the top of the
podium.
SCOTT-SPORTS.COM
SCOTT SPORTS SA 2015 | Photo: TDWSport.com
NEW GEAR
JUST LANDED
FFWD F4D FCC

WHEELSET
ith the UCI taking its first steps

towards the approval of disc
brakes for road racing, the market
for high-end disc-compatible
wheels is rapidly expanding. The 1650
F4D FCC is hand-built in the Netherlands
and marries DT Swiss ultra-reliable 240s
CenterLock disc hubs to 45mm deep carbon
rims. The 1560g weight should make these
competitive with many lower-profile options.
ON THE
RADAR
BIKE TECH
OF THE
NEAR
FUTURE
FLYING DUTCHMAN
Will the Swiss hubs
add polish to your
ride and leave you
hungry for more?
STAR TREK
LEFT FIELD
NEW FOCUS
Riders from Trek Factory

Racing were spotted at the
Critrium du Dauphin
aboard the new Madone, a
bike weve now seen and
which makes more nods to
aerodynamics than
previous iterations.
Is Cannondales Lefty offroad fork coming to the

road? Thats the suggestion
in a company teaser video,
which shows a gravel road
bike with a fork that looks a
lot like the firms iconic
one-armed model.
With disc brakes imminent

intro to pro road racing,
Focus has decked its
flagship Izalco Max with
the stoppers. The German
company claims its 790g
frame is the lightest disc
brake model on the market.
FOR ALL THE LATEST BIKE & GEAR NEWS VISIT

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RIDING
Andy is living the

dream as a pro
rider, but still
has to keep up the
day job for now
ANDY HAWDON
Is 39 too old to be a pro cyclist? Andy would disagree as he
embarks on his debut season
oad racing came into my life

2009 it joined with Herbalife to form a team,
relatively late. Well, late if
which I joined. From 2009 to 2011 I moved up
becoming a pro is your goal.
from category 4 to elite. 2013 was my
At school it was all about
breakthrough season, scoring a few top 20s
mountain bikes, and later
in Premier Calendar races and seventh overall
motocross. When I started working in my 20s,
in the elite circuit series. Last year I rode for
I settled down and both took a back
KTM and finished top 10. With circuit
seat. In 2003/04 I got the itch to
racing such a dominant form of the
My wife
race again, so started back with
sport in the UK I saw interest from
told me I was
motocross. Things didnt go so
pro teams. I was approached by
well and I was plagued by injury.
Team Raleigh GAC.
no spring chicken
To keep my fitness level high I
I signed the deal but Im still
and that I would
did a lot of road cycling. I was
working as an electrical engineer.
have to give it
cycling home from work with a
I cant do a full programme of
a go
guy who raced and he reckoned I
racing or as much PR as the others
had the recovery rate and strength to
in the team, as I have to use my annual
race on the road, and I should give it a crack.
leave when I go away.
I then got back into mountain biking with a
When the deal was being set up I thought it
few friends I raced with back in the day, who
might be too much for me. My wife told me I
suggested a few local events.
was no spring chicken and that I would have
This was 2008. I rode a few circuit races
to give it a go. I might be 39 but I havent had
and performed quite well. By the end of that
any signs that Im struggling. I just want to
season I got a sponsor in Wheelbase and in
keep this going for as long as I can.
BRITAINS
BEST
CLIMBS
HILLS YOU
NEED TO
HAMMER
THE GRASS IS GREENER

This might sound silly, but I wasnt
expecting such a high level of
professionalism by joining a pro
team. A lot of teams Id been at had
put the pro teams down, saying
theyre not all theyre cracked up
to be. The first camp I went on, the
difference was night and day, with
mechanics, soigneurs on hand All
I had to do was train and rest.
BEING PRO IS ADDED PRESSURE,
BUT ALSO ADDED MOTIVATION
Signing the deal at the end of last
year gave me the boost to train
hard all winter. I think I came out
of it as strong as Ive ever been at
that point in the year.
AGE IS JUST A NUMBER
That Im the oldest rider on the
team in my first year as a pro
hasnt been an issue. We have a
little laugh about it every now and
then, but from that first training
camp all the lads, whatever their
age, clicked really well.
HORSESHOE PASS, NORTH WALES

The Etape Cymru (see page
198) has made the
Horseshoe Pass its
signature climb. Its one of
those hills you can almost
forgive for being so brutish
because of its beauty,
particularly after youve
turned the eponymous
horseshoe-shaped, righthand bend close to the
summit and looked back

down at where youve
travelled. The most
interesting side is from
Llangollen, where
Wrexham Roads Clubs
annual hill climb takes
place. Stravas stats 3.5
miles at just five per cent
dumb it down, with
shallower sections at the
Share your
favourite climbs
email cyclingplus@
immediate.co.uk
bottom
and top
disguising prolonged 15 per
cent-plus sections at the
one-mile mark. The
Wrexham hill climb misses
off this first mile, upping
the average gradient to
a far more imposing 6.3
per cent and 232m of
altitude gain.
2015 GIANT BICYCLE INC. PHOTOS: TDWsport.com
THE
AERO
ADVANTAGE.
WHEN ITS ALL ON THE LINE,
WIN WITH GIANT.
Its the race that John Degenkolb always dreamed of winning. Milan-San Remo,
the sprinters classic. Seven grueling hours, and then an all-out sprint. Fate
decided by a split second. Sprinters live for this moment. So do the engineers,
designers and builders of Giant bikes and gear. With his Propel Advanced SL bike
and new Rivet aero helmet, Dege did it. History made. A legend born.
Find your edge at giant-bicycles.com
#KEEPCHALLENGING
NEW GEAR
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1
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HOW TO...
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RIDING
LIFE CYCLE
RUM TIMES
front by the steering wheel, and two seats

behind. One-passenger models are made
from welding a wheelchair to the side of a
bike. Cubans can fix anything and are great
improvisers, as the salsa bands show.
On-the-go refreshments easy.
Roadside stalls have chilled fresh canesugar juice for 6p. You cycled past the fields
where men macheted the crop down; got
cut up by the lorry transporting it; watched
the stallholder feeding the canes into a
press with alarmingly exposed machinery;
saw the juice come out; drank it. Cuba is life
with the lid off. You see the whole process,
how everything works. Like bikes. The
streets are where stuff happens. Houses
have doors and windows open, so you see
daily life as it happens.
Theres all this plus easy
accommodation and lively, friendly
people. With public spaces not ruled by
motor vehicles but people power, the
atmosphere is open, inclusive, safe and
pleasant. No wonder people rate the place
for cycling.
But Cuba is changing. Privatisation,
liberalisation, Americans, Spanish football
on telly, theyre here already. Change will
be slower than most hope/fear, but already
some cracks are showing. And I dont just
mean on the newly-trafficked roads.
The great metric of that change will
be the rise in motor vehicles. They say
Cuban drivers respect bikes, though the
cut-up rate seems similar to Britain.
Few motorists simply means encounters
are rare, but as the tarmac fills with new
car-free roads. Its curious being stuck
drivers the idyllic roads are getting busier.
behind a horse and cart, for instance,
In the 1960s, Britains public spaces sold
especially on a motorway.
their soul to the car as the post-austerity
Time stands still here, particularly
economy boomed. We lost something
when youre waiting to be served. You hear
socially precious that utility cycling was
historic sounds long gone from our world:
part of. Despite the best efforts of the
horses hooves on cobblestones; the dawn
dedicated minority (Sustrans et al), weve
shouts of the bread-seller on his bike;
struggled for paltry regains.
the wheezing of dial-up modems.
Which way will Cuba go?
For most, bikes are the only
Towards Miami, banning horses
As the tarmac
option of getting around.
and bikes from main roads,
fills with new
(Intercity buses are adapted
stopping kids playing in the
cattle trucks; trains take bikes,
street, making roadside stalls
drivers the idyllic
but youre faster riding.) So
into drive-in burger bars?
roads are
cyclists are everywhere, on $30
Towards Europe, with Dutchgetting busier
make-do-and-mend machines
style bike segregation?
extended kids bikes, clanky
I think neither. The country will
Chinese mountain bikes, pre-war
find its own way, as usual. One that
ladies Raleighs, repurposed BMXs...
shows, I hope, that economic development
Multi-occupancy is common whole
can still preserve a social cycling culture.
families on one machine. Extravagant
Perhaps it can show us where we went
loads too sacks of potatoes across the
wrong and what we could do next. Ill come
handlebars, microwave ovens, ladders
back in 10 years to see. Maybe the queue
There are zillions of bike taxis. The usual
for Havanas three internet terminals will
model has three car tyres, the driver up
have moved by then.
h, Cuba. Loud percussive

rhythms, aromatic distilled
liquids, fragrant smoke.
No, not salsa, rum or cigars:
the 1950s limos clanking,
smelling of petrol, and belching out such
fumes theyd instantly fail an emissions
test in the UK, from Cuba.
Ive just cycled it end-to-end, 1200
miles, four weeks, east to west. The
prevailing wind was behind me almost all
the way.
Its not all brochure-cover landscape.
Sure, the remote south-coast road way
down east mostly impassable for cars due
to hurricane damage, but easily rideable
is amazing. And the tobacco-farm valleys
and mountains round Viales out west
make for beautiful trundling. But the
endless mid-island plains are about as
thrilling as Lincolnshire, think Spalding
with sugar cane.
You dont come to Cuba for the scenery,
though. Its for the unique cycling
experience, the 1950s time warp and the
Illustration: James Lancett
Cuba is changing, leading Rob Ainsley to wonder if it will

stay a cycling paradise
www.eddymerckx.com
INSIGHT
It was an amazing experience: the more

parcels I delivered, the more work I got, so
you learn to develop your reputation. It felt
like professional cycling in microcosm.
I love cycling sub-culture
When I was a courier we had a great
community with wild nights out
Cycling is the
there was a lot of squatting so lots of
most inclusive
private parties and we had our own
sport because it
magazines and clothing. Id wear a
promotes alternative garish pro cycling top with cut-off
lifestyles
combats over my cycling shorts so I
didnt have my meat and two veg
hanging out.
I was bitten by the cycling bug when
Stephen Roche won the Tour de France
and did the treble in 1987
I loved watching his head-to-heads with
Pedro Delgado. Mark Cavendish is a great
character: really erudite and funny. When I
watch him sprint I sit next to my wife and
son, screaming, hes gonna kick! Hes
gonna kick!
MICHAEL SMILEY
Cycling around his native Northern Ireland, comic and actor
Michael Smiley a star of movies such as Burke & Hare and
Kill List discovers cyclings creative and connective powers
Cycling is a human story
Its the people who make it interesting. It
appeals to eccentric, quirky individuals,
science boffins who use GPS, athletes who
shave their legs, and people who just love a
wee cycle because it makes them feel
better. In my first BBC series of Something
to Ride Home About I cycled around Northern
Ireland to meet them all. I realised this
mode of transport touches the human soul.
Riding a bike encourages innovation
In the second series of the show, my miniquest was to meet people with great ideas
and individuals whove invented or created
stuff. I wanted to show the connection
between cycling and creativity.
Cycling is the most inclusive sport
because it promotes alternative lifestyles
In Northern Ireland there are lots of crossborder cycling clubs and time trials. In the
old days people of different religions would
ride in the countryside or stay overnight in
hostels. Thats how people socialised and

met their girlfriends or boyfriends.
Northern Irelands like a Tardis for cyclists
Its a small country but it feels so large and
rural. Even Belfast is in a little bowl at the
end of a loch so you can always see the
mountains in the distance.
Bikes help you discover new places
When I was a kid, cycling gave me the
ability to leave my housing estate, cycle to
new towns, or climb hills. Now I live in
London my bike helps me find medieval
parts of the city, old back streets, and
monuments from the 1700s or 1800s.
My first bike was a girls bike
Everyone else had a (Raleigh) Chopper. Mine
had white tyres so I couldnt even skid it.
I used to work as a courier in London
like the character I played in the TV
show Spaced
One of my bikes was stolen and returned

four times
London frame-builder, Tom Board, built it,
and I used the money from my first real
acting job to turn it into a gentlemans bike
with curly handlebars, black mudguards
and a Brooks saddle. Its my donkey: I put
panniers on it and go shopping in London.
Im addicted to gadgets, so cycling
suits me
I remember the arrival of clipless pedals
and the move from down tube shifters to
handlebar shifters.
My Orbea bike reminds me of my parents
I got some money when they died but I
didnt want to spend it on bills. So I bought
a beautiful bike. Its carbon, has a Shimano
105 groupset, and the brand is from the
Basque region so it feels right because I
have a holiday house on the Spanish side of
the Pyrenees where ride with my son.
QUICK FIRE
BEST CYCLING
MEMORY?
There is no bigger joy for
a father than climbing
mountains in the
Pyrenees with his son.
My nine-year-old loves
cycling. Riding up cols
together in the sunshine
is just beautiful.
BEST KIT?
I like Swrve urban
clothing. It looks great

on a bike but also looks
normal when you walk
into a cafe or bar. They
are quirky and have real
attention to detail.
FAVOURITE RIDER?
Sean Kelly, I thought
he was Irelands Eddy
Merckx. He tried to win
every race and was a
big hero of mine.
Words: Mark Bailey Illustration: David Despau
IM A RIDER
AWARD WINNING
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EASY-MIXING LOW-CALORIE,
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No overwhelming avours, no misleading descriptions, no compromise in functionality and no let downs.
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NATURALLY
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PACKAGING
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WOODY VINO
Photo by: Woody Vino
ROAD
TEST
STEEL
YOURSELF
Steve Behr
Are premium steel bikes the ultimate retro renaissance

ride or all show and no go? We test six iron alloy flagships
from the timeless to the stainless and from racers to
recreational all-rounders to find out
2635-3649 STEEL BIKES
ROAD
TE ST
A steel ride can be a

really enjoyable one,
and lets you make
a bold statement
teel ruled supreme

for the first century of
bike building before
aluminium and then
carbon fibre frames
broke its grip. Now its in the midst of
a renaissance powered by riders who
want to break the carbon mould.
The stark truth is that even the
most advanced steel frames cannot
compete with carbon ones in pure
performance terms. Steel fabricators
can pick statistics to make it look
comparable but even the lightest
steel frames are 50 per cent heavier
than the lightest carbon frames. If
you want to maintain the signature
smoothness steel is prized, but they
wont be as stiff or precise as a
composite frame. As a result Strava
performances we logged on these
bikes were comparable to the 1000
carbon ones we tested last issue.
If you take off your rose-tinted
retro glasses and put on a blindfold
YOUR TESTER
Guy Kesteven
Tester
Guy learned to ride
bikes when steel
ruled the world and
hes tested every
possible frame
material including
a few hes glad hes
forgotten. Getting
back onto a full set
of steel bikes
raised a whole
new set of
questions for Guy
and his ultraexperienced
northern test crew.
even the distinctive subtly sprung,

road-smoothing resilience of a
premium steel frame is very hard to
distinguish from some softer carbon
road frames, and were not
necessarily talking expensive carbon
either. With the frames here costing
from between 1200-2700
economy isnt a strong point either.
The ideal bike isnt always about
speed and value though, and when
its done right steel interacts with
the road and rider in an inescapably
enjoyable way, gliding along with the
warmth of a summer evening and
effortlessly rolling a gear round like a
childhood hero. An experience thats
about savouring each moment, not
being a slave to post-ride uploads or
virtual leader boards. If you want to
make an individual statement rather
than following the herd no other
material attracts craftsmen builders
or lends itself to ostentatious artistry
like steel either.
RATINGS
EXPLAINED
+++++
EXCEPTIONAL
A genuine class leader
++++
VERY GOOD
One of the best you can buy
+++
GOOD
Itll do the job very well
++
BELOW AVERAGE
Flawed in some way
POOR
Simply put, dont bother
THE BIKES ON TEST
MASON RESOLUTION ULTEGRA

HYDRO 3195
Mason might be a new
brand but former Kinesis
designer Dom has put all his
experience and fresh ideas into
the detailed, future-proofed
Resolution. This frames built in

Italy but disc brakes, big tyre
clearances plus mudguard and
rack fixtures potentially make
this the ideal UK all-rounder.
CONDOR SUPER ACCIAIO 3410

Legendary London shop
Condor Cycles is another
brand thats been developing
steel frames under its pro race
team for years and it shows in
the notably aggressive character
of the new Super Acciaio frame.
The custom Columbus tubeset is

a masterpiece of multi-section
metal manipulation and
Condors online builder allows
you to create exactly the bike
you want from this beautifully
finished, UCI approved frame.
COLNAGO MASTER X-LIGHT

3512 test bike build
An iconic bike from one of
the most storied brands in
the bicycle world, and handmade in its Italian headquarters.
A cross-section tubeset held
together with traditional lugged

construction and semi-chromed
stiletto forks and pencil stays
has been setting the benchmark
for steel beauty for 30 years.
GENESIS VOLARE 3399

Genesis is relatively new
to the steel game but
few designers talk tubeset
evolution with the passion
and fanatical detail of brand
manager Albert Steward. The
Volare is the direct result of
several seasons of pro race

development and despite
being the second cheapest
bike on test here, its the only
one with a stainless steel
tubeset and a Di2 electric
shift groupset.
ENIGMA ELITE HSS ST UNION

JACK LTD ED 3649
The Elite HSS ST translates
all the companys titanium
building experience into a
triple-butted Spirit Niobium
tubeset from Italian prestige
plumbers Columbus. Anyone

who wants a responsive ride
from their steel steed should
take note that Enigmas cracked
the code on fast ferrous style.
PEGORETTI DUENDE CIAVETE

2635 frame and fork
Whatever it said on the
frames Dario Pegoretti
was the brilliant Italian builder
behind some of the most
successful riders in the golden
age of steel bikes. The legends

endured and youre looking at a
several month waiting list for
even the most affordable
Duende model.
Below Shimano disc brakes with

140mm rotors keep the Mason
under control Bottom MultiPort inserts
make for neat internal cable routing
You still get the

signature steel
surge of speed like
the turbo kicking in
on a diesel car
MASON RESOLUTION ULTEGRA HYDRO

3195 Can the youngest bike here compete with classics?
ason is so young as
a company that our
Resolution sample
still wasnt quite a
perfect production
example, but it throws down a new
challenge to the steel status quo.
The obvious difference with the
Resolution is the fact its disc brake
specific. The rear callipers bolt into
replaceable brass thread details
inside the kinked dropouts and the
hydraulic hoses vanish into downtube and fork leg to keep lines clean.
Masons unique MultiPort alloy
inserts give equally neat internal
routing of full outer, split outer or
electric cable runs or plain blanking
plates for singlespeed or single-ring

running. Ironically these seemingly
tiny touches required the most
intricate design and Italian handbuilding skill to get them to work
with the thin wall Columbus steel
tubing while still adding minimal
weight. Slightly extended chainstays
and raised placement of the hooped
seatstay bridge make the Resolution
compatible with full guards with the
28mm tyres fitted or up to 32mm
tyres without guards.
At this point youd be forgiven
for thinking the Resolution is just
a particularly neatly designed
utility/light touring bike with
plenty of existing parallels but
SPECIFICATION
Weight 9.16kg
(54cm)
Frame Mason
Columbus Spirit/
Life custom disc
Fork Mason
Aperture carbon
Gears Shimano
Ultegra 6800
50/34x11-28
Brakes Shimano
785 hydraulic disc,
140mm rotors
Wheels Mason
Hunt 4 Season disc
Finishing kit Deda
Zero2 and bar,
Continental
Grand Sport Extra
28mm tyres
the ride confirms its genuinely

special. Granted, the weight of the
puncture-reinforced Gran Sport
Extra tyres is obvious in the first
few pedal strokes and theres a bit
of bounce in those long rear stays,
but get the gear turning and you still
get steels signature surge of speed
like the turbo kicking in on a diesel
car. Switching to lighter GP4000S II
rubber released the potential of the
Resolution to punch up the steeper
sections of our Dales test loops and/
or roll a big ratio over the summit.
Dont get hung up on the overall
wheel weight either as that includes
the weight of the 140mm Shimano
Centerlock rotors.
ROAD
TE ST
The custom
Columbus tube mix
screens out chatter
and stutter from
rough surfaces
HIGHS
The 4 Season wheels are a

close collaboration with another
UK upstart brand Hunt and
a perfect complement to the
Resolution. Theyre responsively
low weight, without sacrificing the
stiffness needed to get maximum
precision and longevity from the
huge amounts of fingertip control
from the hydraulic brakes. The
all-weather control of the discs is
backed up by a slacker than usual
head angle, which combines with
the longer chainstays for a stable
and confident descending feel. A
relatively short stem keeps steering
keen and lively, so if you decide to go
off piste youll have a good handle on
grip in loose gravel conditions.
As youd expect if you were
paying 1459 for a steel tubeset, the
custom Columbus tube mix screens
out chatter and stutter from rough
surfaces. Unlike many disc sets the
full carbon Mason Aperture fork is
Beautiful blend
of buoyantly
responsive ride,
surefooted control
and next level
detailing
LOWS
Lighter tyres
release more of
the Resolutions
underlying
responsiveness
BUY IF
You want an
utterly practical
all-rounder youll
still be begging to
ride all weekend
light and smooth riding without

any worrying twang or flutter
when you anchor hard. The wheels
are tubeless tyre compatible if
you add a sealing strip and valve,
adding another level to the existing
survivability and smoothness
advantages of the Resolutions tyre
compatibility. The way the Mason
shrinks the miles adds credibility to
the latest bigger is faster rubber
testing results.
Mason has teamed up with UK
contact point specialist Fabric for
maximum bar tape and carbon railed
saddle comfort to complete the
excellent ride complementing spec.
THE VERDICT
All weather confidence, all purpose utility
and ultra detailed style.
GOT MORE CASH?
MASON RESOLUTION DURA-ACE Di2

HYDRO 5595
Masons flagship uses the MultiPort
inserts to create a slick aesthetic for its
electric shifting, steel superbike.
ON A BUDGET?
MASON DEFINITION ULTEGRA

HYDRO 2695
This delivers the same outstanding
fork, disc brake specific MultiPort and
guard detailing in an alloy tube format.
Going the Extra Mile

www.chainreactioncycles.com
Focused on quality.
Below BB86 Press-Fit bottom

bracket provides a stiff, efficient
pedalling platform Bottom Gearing is a
mix of Shimano Ultegra Di2 and FSA kit
GENESIS VOLARE STAINLESS
The semi-raw
finish reveals a few
spots of functional
rather than flawless
welding
3399.99 Is this stainless racer blemish free on the road?
enesis is another
relatively young
brand but while it
might not have the
same depth of laurels
to rest on as Condor, Colnago and
Pegoretti its stainless Volare frame
has picked up an impressive trophy
haul in the last three years.
The bike youre looking at isnt
exactly the same as the 1999.99
Reynolds 953-tubed Volare frame
evolved and still regularly raced by
the Madison Genesis pro team. The
American-developed KVA stainless
tubeset is created using the same
cold drawn, homogenous welded
seam methods though and tensile
strength is high compared to other

Reynolds or Columbus options.
Genesis has also decreased tube
sizes slightly to keep weight down,
relying on the thicker tube walls for
similar stiffness. Stout chainstays
and press-fit BB86 bottom bracket
add some width to channel wattage
in the right direction when you put
the power down. Its Di2 specific
with the battery and wiring running
internally. We did experience
occasional, irritating cable rattle
and the semi-raw finish reveals a
few spots of functional rather than
flawless welding, but the alignment
of the ring-reinforced head-tube to
cowled dropout is perfect.
SPECIFICATION
Weight 8.84kg
(54cm)
Frame KVA MS3
stainless steel
Fork ADK full
carbon
Gears FSA Energy
MegaExo 52/36t,
Shimano Ultegra
6870 Di2 11-28t
Brakes Shimano
Ultegra
Wheels Fulcrum
Racing LG CX
Finishing kit
Genesis 110mm
stem, Compact
bar, Continental
Grand Sport Race
25mm tyres
The Taiwanese ADK fork is the

best piece here in terms of ride
quality. It smoothed-out incoming
impacts and rough road sections so
well that we stopped and checked
we hadnt lost front tyre pressure
several times before we realised it
was just the exceptional damping
performance doing its job. That
same smoothly planted and
connected feel carries through the
whole frame. The 25mm tyres add a
bit more smoothness and while they
dont have pose value the Genesisbranded contact kit is comfortable.
Even allowing for that (and
swapping wheels about to check) the
stainless tubes had a distinctively
ROAD
TE ST
Theres enough
authority in the front
and fork that it never
started to twitch or
stand up
HIGHS
more ductile and fluid interaction

with the road when we got deep
into our swap over, back-to-back
segment riding sessions. While
theyre not light the Fulcrum wheels
roll smoothly and Genesis has
specced the CX version, which gets
better bearing seals than normal.
This permanently connected
feel means while the wheelbase is
relatively short we never doubted
the ability of the Volare to push the
Continental tyres hard on descents
without overstepping the mark.
Theres enough authority in the
front and fork that it never started to
twitch or stand up just when we were
trying to calm our breathing and
totally commit to a sweeper, and you
can work the brakes hard and late
without worrying.
Where the Genesis is less
compelling is on climbs. The slight
spring of the steel means it can tap
a rhythm out beautifully and theres
Very smooth and

surefooted ride
quality, great
value for stainless
tubes and Di2
LOWS
Wheel and
component
choices dull
responsiveness
BUY IF
You want a
sublimely smooth,
Di2-equipped
package rather
than a pick and
mix charger
a generous stretch in the top-tube

to give ample breathing space. Kick
hard though and the heavy wheels
and extra Di2 weight can be felt
dragging you backwards. The FSA
chainset is slightly soft underfoot
too but even when we swapped to an
Ultegra crank and lighter wheels to
isolate the chassis, the Genesis still
doesnt feel as responsive and taut
as either the Condor or the Enigma.
While the complete package
deal makes it very good value
for a stainless-tubed Di2 bike,
youre reliant on your dealer to
accommodate any changes you
might want to make.
THE VERDICT
Excellent value for impeccable stainless
steel smoothness and Di2 drive
GOT MORE CASH?
GENESIS VOLARE 953 1999.99

(frame and forks) The pro spec Volare
frame uses Reynolds tubing, including
several shapes developed for Genesis.
Conventional or Di2 specific options.
ON A BUDGET?
GENESIS EQUILIBRIUM
STAINLESS 1999.99
This uses a similar KVA stainless
tubeset to the Volare but in a more
relaxed, all-rounder format.
BBBCYCLING.COM
The Patron was rst designed for

iPhones. We had spent a lot of time
perfecting the design and it turned out
really well. But owners of Galaxy S4s
were complaining. They wanted the
same quality case. And I should know,
Im one of them! So here it is, same
brilliant design, but for Galaxy S4s.
FOR THE FULL STORY, CHECK:
BBBCYCLING.COM/ALLABOUTCYCLING/PATRON
THE BEST
PHONE CASE
FOR CYCLING.
NOW ANDROID
COMPATIBLE.
Sebastiaan Bowier,
fastest cyclist in the world,
BBB Cycling product designer
PHONE MOUNTS
PATRON GS-4 / BSM-06
Below Seatstays flatten out

below the brake bridge Bottom
Oversized PF30 bottom bracket is a rare
sight on steel bikes
CONDOR SUPER ACCIAIO

3410 Does Condors latest steel racer really give you wings?
ondors shop on
Grays Inn Road,
London, has been a
cultural hub for
everyone from cycle
couriers to Continental pro riders
since 1948 and has been producing
stylish machines for just as long.
The Super Acciaio blends that
timeless style and experience with
the fruits of its long relationship
with Italian tube master Columbus
to produce a sporting steeler.
If you didnt know about the rich
racing history of Condor most
recently in cahoots with Rapha and
JLT there are some clear clues in
the Super A frameset. Its the only
bike here thats gone through the

lengthy and expensive process
needed for UCI approval and the
international racing clearance that
provides. A tapered head-tube keeps
a firm (for steel) hold on the light
Columbus Grammy Slim fork, it uses
an oversize BB30 bottom bracket
that is almost unheard of in steel
bikes and stout, kinked chainstays
end in oversized cowled dropouts.
Youll feel a different cross-section
wherever you grab the triple-butted
tubes too, with everything from
round to oval to octagonal to
rectangular and every permutation
in between used to maximise power
transfer and precision.
SPECIFICATION
Weight 8.0kg
(55cm)
Frame Columbus
Condor custom
Fork Columbus
Grammy Slim/
Super Acciaio
Gears Campagnolo
Athena Carbon,
52/36, 11-28t
Brakes
Campagnolo
Athena dual pivot
Wheels
Campagnolo
Shamal Ultra
Finishing kit Fizik
stem and bar,
Conti Grand Prix
4000S 23mm tyres
Its the only bike

here thats gone
through the lengthy
and expensive process
needed for UCI
approval
The seatstays are flattened to flex

subtly below the Condor-embossed
brake bridge and theres delicious
detailing from the contrast paint
inside the double-sided reinforced
dropouts to neatly shaped cable
guides and multiple 3D versions of
the Condor logo on various tubes.
A full bike fit at Condor HQ (or
nine other regional Condor
stockists) is included in the 1399
frame or complete, multi-option
bike builder price and if none of the
six broadly spaced 46-61cm sizes
feel right custom geometry (and
paint options) are available for 120
and an eight-week wait. The bike
builder also allows your personal
ROAD
TE ST
Enhanced power
transfer and
precision comes at
the expense of subtle
shock damping
HIGHS
choice of parts but youd not go far

wrong with Condors own pick of
mid-range Campagnolo groupset
and top end wheels here.
While artistry and custom spec
potential help justify a serious bike
purchase, its how a frame feels on
the road that really lights your fire.
The Super A is the most flammable
bike here in that respect too. The
stiff, short chainstay frame stokes
the lightweight Campagnolo Shamal
wheels up to a scorching pace with
minimal effort for a steel bike. The
8kg weight means itll ignite with
equal enthusiasm on any steepness
of incline or village sign sprint and
its the standout bike here for riders
who love to look over their shoulders
and prod the pace of a group ride.
Even with the wheels swapped its
still got a noticeable edge over the
otherwise similarly sporting Enigma
when youre twisting the bar tape off
at max torque. The steepest steering
Efficiently
effervescent
responsiveness
and handling
with serious style
and good value
custom options
LOWS
Firmer, feistier
ride than you
might expect
from steel
BUY IF
You want a
classically
styled, deep
heritage, custom
configurable
steelie with a
distinctively
dynamic ride
on test makes it the most quickwitted of the bunch and its as eager
on twisting roads as it is on climbs.
Perhaps inevitably, enhanced
power transfer and precision comes
at the expense of subtle shock
damping and theres a fair amount
of clatter and chatter from either
end of the Condor. Tight clearances
mean even 25mm tyres are a close
fit. A relatively tall head-tube takes
pressure off your hands, and with
the extra filter of a skinny Fizik
carbon seatpost under the Aliante
saddle theres enough spring to float
a big gear over staccato road sections
and keep the steel spark alive.
THE VERDICT
Aggressive power and handling, clean steel
style with good value custom options
GOT MORE CASH?
CONDOR ACCIAIO STAINLESS

2799.99 (frame and fork) The
Columbus XCr stainless steel Acciaio
comes with custom fit and colour
choice as standard.
ON A BUDGET?
CONDOR ACCIAIO 899.99

(frame and fork) A more upright and
affordable frame but the Dedacciai
Zero Replica triple-butted tubeset
means its no heavier than the Super.
Extra (UK) LTD 01933 672170 www.extrauk.co.uk
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Below For an extra 299 you

can be patriotic with Union Jack
touches Bottom Campagnolo Chorus
Skeleton brakes scrub off speed
ENIGMA ELITE HSS ST

3649 Has Enigma cracked the code for spirited yet smooth riding?
he optional 299
Union Jack painted
front end of the
Enigma makes
a striking visual
statement but the frame and fork
it covers are what confirm the Elite
HSS STs combative character.
The stocky head-tube gives room
for a full-size tapered fork with
hidden Columbus ceramic bearings.
The fork base width means the
head-tube can be kept low for an
aggressive ride position rather than
perching you up high for pottering.
The carbon Enigma fork has been
chosen to produce the right blend of
precision and palpable small bump
absorption. Its so good that given

the visual similarity we actually
asked Enigma if it had fitted an
ultra-expensive ENVE Road 2.0
under the colour-synced paint job
rather than its own unit.
Enigma follows up the
contemporary front end with a
gently sloped top-tube and tight
rear that keeps the metal needed to a
minimum. That gives the Elite HSS
an impressively low claimed frame
weight of just over 1500g for the
smallest size. Tube shapings
minimal too, relying on the classic
round profiles of the triple-butted
Columbus Spirit tubing to join the
tapered head to the conventional
SPECIFICATION
Weight 7.82kg
(53cm)
Frame Columbus
Spirit Niobium
Fork Enigma
full carbon
Gears Campagnolo
Chorus, 50/34,
11-28
Brakes
Campagnolo
Chorus Skeleton
Wheels
Campagnolo Zonda
Finishing kit
Enigma 3D stem,
Compact bar,
Continental Grand
Prix 4000S
23mm tyres
Theres enough
give in the frame
to keep tyres
glued better than
you expect
screw-in bottom bracket shell. The

brazed-on tab for the front mech is
neater than the wraparound clamps
used on most of the bikes here. The
sudden pre-dropout taper of the
stout chainstays reminded us of the
classic enhanced stiffness Max OR
tubeset that Columbus developed to
combat the rise of alloy frame
popularity in the 90s. The cowled
dropouts also give maximum
contact area for the rear stays to
complete a muscular looking frame.
Enigma offers Ultegra-based 1.1
(3075.99) or Dura-Ace-based 1.3
(4299) complete bike options or
can build you a custom spec bike like
the Campagnolo Chorus stop and
ROAD
TE ST
Even with the

relatively low bar
position its forgiving
enough for a lazy
summer ride
HIGHS
go/Zonda wheel sample here. While

frame prices of the Elite HSS ST and
Condor Super Acciaio are the same at
1399 the Condor bike builder is
cheaper for a similar spec. Enigma
has its own paint shop, with several
two-tone options as standard on the
Elite and a range of custom finishes
including colour-matched Enigma
stem and seatpost for 299+.
While the colour-matched frame
and kit looks great its how it works
on the road that makes it clear why
Enigmas owner Jim Walker often
rides one himself rather than one of
his more expensive titanium frames.
While the relatively relaxed headtube gives a stable base feel, the
steep seat angle pushes weight and
authority onto the front tyre.
Theres enough give in the frame to
keep tyres glued better than you
expect, so you can really rip the low
front end through corners, clipping
apexes and straining your neck for
Excellent balance
of smoothness
and speed with
full commitment
handling and
collar and cuffs
style options
LOWS
Complete bike
prices are slightly
high
BUY IF
You want your
steel with smooth
performance
position swagger,
easy speed and
fresh styling
the fastest exit. Its not as taut as the

Condor or solid as the Pegoretti but
the stout tubes are punchy enough
to make going full gas a rewarding
experience on climbs or sprints and
help you churn a fading gear over the
brow of a hill and spin straight into
the attack. Even with the relatively
low bar position its forgiving
enough for a lazy summer ride.
The Enigma feels as classy and
coherent to ride as it is to look at and
its easy yet enthusiastic character is
a great example of why steel still
deserves consideration if you want
more from your riding than clinical
speed and mass market value.
THE VERDICT
Engaging and enjoyable race style, easy
speed ride but value is in the finish options
GOT MORE CASH?
ENIGMA EXCEL TI 2287 (frame and

fork) The Excel sits at the top of the
prestige pile thanks to an evolved 6AL
4V tubeset, tapered fork compatible
head-tube and machined detailing.
ON A BUDGET?
ENIGMA ETHOS 1050 (frame and

fork) Triple-butted Columbus Life
tubing means a similar weight frame
to the Elite, but a straight steerer and
single colours keep it more affordable.
RIDE HARD
STAY COOL
PHOTON: AN INNOVATIVE AERO JERSEY THAT KEEPS

YOU FRESH, WHATEVER THE TEMPERATURE
BREATHABLE & LIGHT
Lightweight, breathable Artico wicking

fabric delivers maximum comfort
STAY FRESH
Anti-bacterial and odour-resistant

carbon inserts keep you cool
AERO PROTECTION
3/4 aero sleeves also boost

UV-A and UV-B protection
DEVELOPED
WITH
PHOTON 3/4 AERO JERSEY

Made from lightweight and breathable Artico fabric that cools the skin, the
Photon is an aero jersey that offers enhanced breathability, lightness and style.
Chosen by Team Lotto NL-Jumbo to race in at the Tour de France, the 3/4
sleeves boost aerodynamic performance and provide protection against
UV-A and UV-B rays, while carbon bre side inserts are anti-bacterial and
odour-resistant. With Photon, you will go fast and stay fresh.
Discover more at:
SANTINISMS.IT/PHOTON
@santini_sms
santinimaglicio
Also available with short sleeves; as Custom Team Kit;

and as Team Lotto NL-Jumbo merchandise
OFFICIAL UK
DISTRIBUTOR
For your nearest dealer visit sheroutdoor.co.uk
24
31
Below Precisa fork sports

Colnagos cloverleaf logo
Bottom The frames paintjob is a mix of
stencilling, air brushing and metallic flake
COLNAGO MASTER X-LIGHT

3512 Is this ultimate Italian icon still a relevant ride?
was more excited

to try this bike than
any I can remember
in a long time. I
caught my first
glimpse of this aspirational icon
when I opened my first copy of the
1986 Bicycle Buyers Guide. It was
the most expensive bike in there
and justified that cost easily with
its opulence. My giddy expectation
didnt ease when unboxing revealed
a beautifully judged build kit from
importer Windwave, which teamed
Campagnolos latest Chorus
22-speed stop/go equipment with a
retro Selle Italia suede saddle. Even
the machined facets on the Vision
TriMax 30 rims sync with the flat

faces of the Masters signature cross
section Columbus tubing.
Its the 1999.99 frame with its
30-year history thats the star.
The tubeset is joined via separate
ornately shaped lugs or socket
sections. The ones connecting the
head-tube to the down-tube and
top-tube are chromed and inset
with Colnagos cloverleaf logo to
match the chromed, tapered leg
Precisa stiletto fork. The centre
sections of the slim rear stays are
also immaculately chromed. The
whole frame is perfectly aligned so
you only need to touch the wheel
positioning screws in the rear
SPECIFICATION
Weight 8.45kg
(56cm)
Frame Custom
DT15V steel
Fork Colnago
Precisa, 1in steerer
Gears Campagnolo
Chorus, 52/36,
11-25t
Brakes
Campagnolo
Chorus
Wheels Vision
TriMax 30
Finishing kit FSA
Gossamer stem
and bar, Colnago
post, Continental
Grand Prix 4000S
II 25mm tyres
Unboxing
revealed a
beautifully judged
build kit from
importer
Windwave
dropouts if you want to sneak the

rear wheel even closer to the seattube on the already short rear end.
Crowning the constructional glory
on our sample is one of four different
base colour versions of Colnagos
Art Deco livery. Its a stunning mix
of stencils, multi-colour airbrush
fades, rich colour blocks and
freestyle metallic flake detailing
that somehow works perfectly in
the Colnago context whether you
remember it from childhood or
its totally new to you. If its a bit
flamboyant for you there are retro
Mapei team colour, the classic
white panel on red livery of Italian
1982 World Champion Giuseppe
ROAD
TE ST
The Master is
stretched long and
low over steep
steering and
seat angles
HIGHS
Saronni or just a white and chrome

option. A vast range of sizes in single
centimetre gaps from 49-65cm
should see most riders find a fit.
The fit of the Colnago is as much
of its time as the construction and
style. The Master is stretched long
and low over steep steering and
seat angles. While it looks fragile
the ultra-tapered Stiletto fork is
anything but, skewering the road
with authority considering the inch
diameter steerer, skinny headtube and frame tubes connecting it
to the rest of the bike. Those slim
tubes glue the back end onto the
tarmac with equal tenacity, with the
25mm tyres and angular Vision rims
adding more adhesion and accuracy.
Add the long, low position and the
Master descends like a hawk even on
technical descents, begging you to
add gears rather than back off.
While its a match for the latest
bikes on descents, accelerating
A true style icon

with authoritative
charisma and
technically
tenacious
handling
LOWS
Slim lugged
steel tubes need
coaxing up to
speed not bullying
BUY IF
You want a truly
timeless, instantly
recognisable
classic rather than
a modernised
muscle bike
and climbing requires a more deft

touch. Stomp rudely on the pedals or
heave the bar and it responds with
the speed sucking stubbornness
youd expect if you tried to bully an
old Italian. Squeeze power forwards
from a rearward saddle position and
the sense of sticky brakes and rubber
chain is replaced with a steady surge
of speed thats sustained whatever
the road underneath you. Pushing
weight back and riding light on the
front also reduces the hammer from
the fork. This is a bike that rewards
you if you respect it and where time
you spend aboard is a bonus, not
something to be hurried.
THE VERDICT
A true steel icon with impeccable handling
and timeless charisma
GOT MORE CASH?
COLNAGO C60 DISC 3699.95

The latest C60 monocoque flagship
comes in disc brake and electric shift
versions or even a combination of
the two.
ON A BUDGET?
COLNAGO AC-R 105 2099.95

This uses a carbon frame and fork
thats conventional or electric shift
compatible and comes with Campag
Veloce, Shimano Ultegra or 105 kit.
Below The Ciavete finish will

cost you an extra 485 Bottom
Ambrosio Excellight SSC rims are weighty
but can handle rougher stuff
The welding
and alignment is
perfect from the
extended head-tube
to the dropouts
PEGORETTI DUENDE CIAVETE

2635 (frame and fork) Stand out style from a framebuilding legend
e cant think of
another bike weve
tested that hasnt
had its brand name
somewhere on its
frame but then Pegoretti isnt an
ordinary brand.
Theres an extra irony in the
fact that Dario Pegoretti doesnt
plaster his name on his frames either
as he built his reputation by creating
bikes to be raced under other brand
names by the worlds best riders. He
started frame building back in 1975
and already had an enviable
reputation before he started to
pioneer TIG welding to join steel
tubes in 1985 when most other
builders were still using lugs and low

temperature brazing.
While the technique became
common with mass-produced alloy
frames before flowing back into steel
and titanium construction, at the
time this pushed the materials and
craftsmanship to the limit. The
precision mitring (curved shaping to
ensure the perfect tube on tube
connection) removes any overlap,
minimising the amount of metal
needed and therefore producing the
lightest frames possible. It also lets
the frames flex and move to the
maximum potential of the material
and this construction is still favoured
by Dario in his Italian workshop.
SPECIFICATION
Weight 9.09kg
(57cm)
Frame Columbus
Spirit Niobium
Fork Pegoretti Falz
carbon
Gears Campagnolo
Athena alloy,
50/34, 11-25
Brakes
Campagnolo
Athena dual pivot
Wheels Ambrosio
Excellight SSC rims
on PMP hubs
Finishing kit Deda
stem, bar and
seatpost, Schwalbe
Durano Plus
23mm tyres
The Duende is the entry-level

model using a Columbus Spiritbased tubeset with socketed rather
than TIG-welded dropouts to save
time and money. That means it
only costs 2150 for the frame,
Falz carbon fork, custom insertion
depth Chris King D11 headset
and surprisingly crude looking
clamp-on front mech mount. The
welding and alignment is perfect
from the extended head-tube to
the distinctive socketed dropouts.
The price includes a single colour
finish of your choice, with panel
designs at an extra 165, standard
multi-colour paint jobs at 340
or the Ciavete finish seen here for
ROAD
TE ST
When it comes to
muscling a gear
round or ploughing
through the roughest
corners the Pegoretti
is awesome
HIGHS
485. This option hands the creative

reigns to Dario and the results can be
anything from monochrome graffiti
to embedded newspaper cuttings,
abstract polychromatic panels or
psychedelic explosions.
While the aesthetic insanity and
heritage is the reason many riders
are happy to wait for months and
pay a huge premium for a Pegoretti,
how does the Duende ride?
If youre expecting something
ethereal youre in for a shock.
Legendary riders like Stephen
Roche, Miguel Indurain, Mario
Cipollini, Claudio Chiappucci and
Andrea Tafi used Pegoretti frames as
their tools of the trade, the Duende
is a solid workhorse. Theres little
of the flow and spring of the more
animated bikes here and itll punish
you if you put the Falz fork in the
wrong place on a rough road. The
Campagnolo Athena alloy parts and
relatively heavy hand-built wheels
Immaculate build
quality, rock solid
ride and incredible
paint options
LOWS
Premium price,
punishingly stiff
by steel standards
BUY IF
Youre a muscular
rider with a
passion for
pedalling the
ultimate in frame
building artistry
provided by UK importer Mosquito

Bikes dont do the Duendes
responsiveness or snap acceleration
any favours either.
But the PMP-centred wheels are
beautifully built and when it comes
to muscling a gear around with grim
determination or ploughing through
the roughest corners the Pegoretti
is awesome. Features like the
horizontal top-tube and extended
head-tube also make the Duende
suited to bigger, heavier riders who
might find the more vibrant bikes
here too flexy but who still want a
piece of art, not just another massmarket moulded carbon frame.
THE VERDICT
Immaculately constructed rock-solid steel
workhorse with unmissable individual styling
GOT MORE CASH?
PEGORETTI BIG LEG EMMA 3500

Big Leg Emma uses oversized tubing
and horizontal stiffening baffles in
the down-tube to create the most
powerful frame in the Pegoretti lineup.
ON A BUDGET?
ZULLO TONICA 1595

Legendary Italian builder Tiziano
Zullos entry-level frameset can be
ordered with rack and mudguard
mounts or larger tyre clearance.
CFD: DESIGN FOR THE BEST AERODYNAMIC ADVANTAGE
* Used for Time Trials only

DISTRIBUTOR:
FSA UK / WINDWAVE
fsa.uk@fullspeedahead.com
Tel. +44 2392521912 Fax: +44 2392522625
jonnymole.com
TOUR DE FRANCE TEAMS

WINNING WITH THE WIND
ROAD
TE ST
WINNER
Mason Resolution Ultegra Hydro Disc Talking bout a Resolution
fter several months

of enjoyably
exhaustive testing
we understand
why steel bikes are
more popular than theyve been
for ages, despite obvious price and
performance disadvantages.
While brands like Parlee show
you can make carbon beautiful
and individual, steel bikes are the
chosen canvas of the worlds best
bike artists. If you can afford the
premium price tag nobody matches
Dario Pegoretti for combining
a history of constructional
innovation with aesthetic impact.
Ernesto Colnago is even better
known in broader cycling circles,

and for many its the Art Decopainted Master X-Light that
captures the glory better than
anything since.
If youre after more contemporary
performance its the UK not Italy
showing the way. Condors racing
heritage shows in the pulse-racing
performance of the Super Acciaio.
Genesis offers excellent value with
the ultra-smooth-riding, stainless
steel Volare if you want Di2 and
dont mind upgrading the wheels to
unleash its full potential. Enigma
slots between the two of them
with a great balance of speed and
smoothness wrapped in collar and
Ferrous alloy
delivers its true
value over years
of user-friendly
riding
cuffs style, albeit at a slightly higher

complete bike price.
Ferrous alloy also delivers its true
value over years of user-friendly
riding, not flash-in-the-pan,
replace-next-season performance.
Step forward the beautifully
designed, high-performance
Resolution from Mason. An
outstanding bike that combines allweather utility and confidence with
multi-option future-proofing and
seals the deal with a rewardingly
responsive ride. If discs arent your
thing dont discount Mason for the
foreseeable future either, as the
Resolution is just the first bike in its
steel pipeline.
NEXT MONTH
There is a long and
honourable record
of ex-pro riders
launching bike
brands when they
retire from racing,
something which
continues to this
day. We test six
bikes from the
biggest names in
sport, some whose
careers date back
to pre-war days,
others just retired.
But do their bikes
live up to their
illustrious names?
Issue 305 is on sale
18 August 2015
MASON
RESOLUTION
3195
GENESIS
VOLARE
3399
CONDOR SUPER
ACCIAIO
3410
ENIGMA ELITE
HSS ST
3649
COLNAGO
MASTER X-LIGHT
3512
PEGORETTI
DUENDE CIAVETE
2635*
Size tested
54cm
54cm
55cm
53cm
56cm
57cm
Sizes available
50, 52, 54, 56, 58,

60cm
50, 52, 54, 56, 58,

60cm
46, 49, 52, 55, 58,

61cm
53, 55, 56, 57, 59cm
49-65cm
49-60cm
Weight
9.16kg
8.84kg
8.0kg
7.82kg
8.45kg
9.09kg
Frame
Mason Columbus
Spirit/Life custom
KVA MS3 stainless

steel
Columbus Condor
custom
Columbus Spirit
Niobium
Custom DT15V steel
Columbus Spirit
Niobium
Fork
Mason Aperture
carbon disc
ADK full carbon
Columbus Grammy
Slim/Super Acciaio
Enigma carbon
Colnago Precisa, 1in

steerer
Pegoretti Falz carbon
Frame alignment
Head-tube and rear

dropout perfect, fork
dropout excellent
Head-tube and fork

dropout perfect, rear
dropout excellent
Head-tube and rear

dropout perfect, fork
dropout excellent
Head-tube excellent,
fork and rear
dropouts perfect
All perfect
All perfect
Chainset
Shimano Ultegra
6800, 50/34
FSA Energy MegaExo,

52/36
Campagnolo Athena
Carbon, 52/36
Campagnolo Chorus,
50/34
Campagnolo Chorus,
52/36
Athena alloy, 50/34
Bottom bracket
Shimano Ultegra
6800
BB86 PF
Campagnolo Power
Torque PF
Campagnolo EPS
Campagnolo EPS
Campagnolo EPS
Cassette
Shimano Ultegra
6800, 11-28T
Shimano 105, 11-28T
Campagnolo Athena,
11-28T
Campagnolo Chorus,
11-28T
Campagnolo Chorus,
11-25T
Campagnolo Chorus,
11-25T
Chain
Shimano Ultegra
6800
KMC X11
Campagnolo Athena
Campagnolo Chorus
Campagnolo Chorus
Campagnolo Athena
Derailleurs
Shimano Ultegra
6800
Shimano Ultegra
6870 Di2
Campagnolo Athena
Campagnolo Chorus
Campagnolo Chorus
Campagnolo Athena
Gear levers
Shimano Ultegra
6800
Shimano Ultegra
6870 Di2
Campagnolo Athena
Campagnolo Chorus
Campagnolo Chorus
Campagnolo Athena
Front and rear
Mason Hunt 4 Season

disc
Fulcrum Racing LG CX
Campagnolo Shamal
Ultra
Campagnolo Zonda
Vision TriMax 30
Ambrosio Excellight
SSC rims, PMP hubs
Tyres
Continental Grand
Sport Extra, 28mm
Continental Grand
Sport Race, 25mm
Continental Grand
Prix 4000S II, 23mm
Continental Grand
Prix 4000S II, 23mm
Continental Grand
Prix 4000S II, 25mm
Schwalbe Durano
Plus, 23mm
Wheel weight
F 1.43kg R 1.79kg
F 1.28kg R 1.7kg
F 1.01kg R 1.48kg
F 1.03kg R 1.56kg
F 1.09kg R 1.54kg
F 1.35kg R 1.77kg
Stem
Deda Zero2, 90mm
Genesis, 110mm
Fizik Cyrano R3,

110mm
Enigma 3D, 120mm
FSA Gossamer,
120mm
Deda Zero100,
120mm
Handlebar
Deda RHM02,
400mm
Genesis Compact,
420mm
Fizik Cyrano R3,

420mm
Enigma Compact,
420mm
FSA Gossamer,
400mm
Deda Newton,
420mm
Headset
Deda HHS, tapered
FSA Orbit ITA
Condor custom
Columbus Ceramic,
tapered
FSA Orbit X
Chris King D11

custom
Saddle
Fabric carbon
Genesis
Fizik Aliante Kium
Enigma Ellipse
Selle Italia Turbo
Selle Italia Flite Gel
Seatpost
Mason Penta carbon,

27.2mm
Genesis alloy,
27.2mm
Fizik carbon, 27.2mm
Enigma carbon
Colnago carbon,
27.2mm
Deda RS02, alloy
Brakes
Shimano Ultegra 785

hydraulic disc
Shimano Ultegra
6800
Campagnolo Athena
dual pivot
Campagnolo Chorus
Skeleton
Campagnolo Chorus
Campagnolo Athena
dual pivot
*Frame and fork
TRANSMISSION
WHEELS
COMPONENTS
Mason
Cockpit 67cm
Standover 78.7cm
BB height 27.5cm
Fork offset 4.5cm
Trail 6.6cm
Genesis
55.2cm
73.5
71.5
49.5cm
Cockpit 70.4cm
Standover 76.3cm
BB height 27.2cm
Fork offset 4cm
Trail 5.9cm
42cm
73.5
73.5
51cm
Cockpit 68.5cm
Standover 79.3cm
BB height 26.5cm
Fork offset 4cm
Trail 5.8cm
Pegoretti
55cm
72
49cm
98.2cm
57cm
72.5
74
54cm
40.8cm
41cm
50cm
100.2cm
Colnago
53cm
Cockpit 70cm
Standover 80.6cm
BB height 27cm
Fork offset 5cm
Trail 5.5cm
73.5
73.5
98cm
Enigma
74
55.5cm
40.5cm
41cm
101cm
Cockpit 70.2cm
Standover 77.4cm
BB height 26.5cm
Fork offset 5cm
Trail 5.4cm
Condor
55cm
Cockpit 71.6cm
Standover 82.8cm
BB height 27.2m
Fork offset 4.5cm
Trail 6.3cm
72
73
57cm
41cm
99cm
101cm
NE W
KIT
MOST
D
WANTE
WITTER ZX504 CYCLE CARRIER
Robert Smith
600 Ultimate carrier for you and MAMIL mates?

BRITISH BRAND WITTERS stock-in-trade is
found that removing and reversing the wheel
making and fitting towbars, so its no surprise
cradles theres a securing screw underneath
its built a name as a maker of towbarworked best.
mounted cycle carriers. Its new ZX500
Once loaded and locked, the ZX504 felt
range is its most advanced, and
very secure and our bikes didnt move
WE SAY
premium, yet with a choice of three
a great deal as we drove perhaps not
A premium carrier,
platforms carrying two, three or
surprising as Witters designer
for your premium
four bikes.
Martin Dickinson explained that the
Youll need a towball, and if you
carriers are tested around the
bikes, on your
dont have one this will cost between
Millbrook motoring proving ground.
premium car
250-500 to buy and fit, including the
Including sections of pav! One
electrics (we got ours from bristolexcellent feature is that the carrier tilts
towbars.com), which can make this kind of
with your bikes on board to allow access to
carrier seem costly. That said, towball-mounted
the boot.
carriers have advantages over hatch and roofWhen empty of bikes, the carrier folds up
mounted racks carrying bikes behind your car
against the boot but a glitch with our test carrier
is better for your fuel economy, putting bikes on
from an early batch, since corrected - meant that
the rear is easier than onto the roof and a number
the light board plate didnt remain upright over
of cars with rear spoilers cant take a bootbumps. That aside, the ZX504 has persuaded us
mounted rack.
that tow bars arent just for caravans!
We tested the ZX504, as it seems perfect for the
family MAMIL who takes mates to events. At 23kg,
the Witter isnt light but it does have wheels so
you can roll it from garage to car before following
the five-step set-up, and it can carry up to 60kg.
Each step, and associated lever, is numbered
and colour coded green to mount, red to remove.
Gird your loins, lift and drop onto the towball and
it clicks into place. With the rack against the boot
you can swivel it on the ball to straighten.
Once the platform is flat, it wont move on the
WITTER ZX404
THULE
ball and can be locked in place with the supplied
497
EUROCLASSIC G6
key. A separate U-shaped bar lifts to the vertical
490
and attached to these are three different length
If youre a beltTo carry four bikes
bars, with ratchet fastenings that attach to the
and-braces type the
on the EuroClassic
first three bike frames. A separate short bar
ZX404 offers similar
you will need to add
secures bikes three and four to each other.
features to the
an adapter, in its
If youre carrying four large road bikes youll
ZX504 but attaches
standard guise the
firmly to a plate
rack will only
need to do a bit of 3D puzzling the bars securing
behind the towbar.
take three. Like
bike to carrier can be moved
As well as meaning
the Witter carriers,
around and we found that for
the carrier is firmly
the Thule has a
large frames we had to attach
attached it also adds
tilt function that
extra bike securing
allows access to
HIGHS
them to the down section on
goodness you can
your boot. Bikes
Sturdy, secure,
the carrier and down-tubes
lock bikes to the
are secured to
reasonably easy
on the bikes. The ratchet
mounting plate too.
the carrier with
to use
clamps to the bike are
As with the ZX504,
AcuTight knobs
the 404 tilts to
that click like a
LOWS
lockable and once locked
allow access to
torque wrench
Some patience
cant be removed at either
your boot even
when the optimum
required, heavy
end so your bikes are secure.
when fully loaded.
tightness is reached.
to lift
For larger road bikes we
NE W
KIT
WE SAY
Bells Event has
all the qualities
wed expect of
a helmet twice
the price
HEAD
D
TO HEA
GIRO FORAY
BELL EVENT
49.99
Retention
The Foray uses Giros Roc Loc 5.
The dial is small but offers topnotch fine adjustment. Its
easy to use wearing mitts, but
its size can make it trickier with
thicker gloves. The thick straps
are heavy-gauge nylon, which
can scratch, with quick-release
adjusters and a click-fix buckle.
mass and more solid sections,

so sweat can build up there. The
295g weight (L) is good for the
price, but no match for the
more feathery Event.
Quality
The Forays made with an

in-moulded shell, where the
hardshell is moulded into the
foam core rather than bonded
on after. Highlights include
Comfort
high-quality pads and an
The Forays minimal size
impressive retention system,
follows the styling of Giros
with the two-piece hardshell
range-topping Synthe,
neatly finished where it meets
featuring long parallel vents
the foam core.
running front to back, matched
On the downside, the
internally by deep
nylon straps are a bit
channel cutaways
thick and scratchy
and a slender fourHIGHS
against the skin at
piece pad set. On the
Great rear retention
least for the first few
bike you can feel
system, quality
rides and theres
the channels doing
pads
exposed EPS foam
their best to deliver
LOWS
on the underside,
constant airflow. At
Thick, scratchy
so be careful of
the back, the Foray
straps
accidental damage.
has a little greater
BEST
ON TEST
49.99
Retention
The Event uses Bells TAG
Twin Axis Gear system. This
features a large dial on the
cradle that adjusts the
circumference, with a slot on
the cradle anchor providing a
choice of three vertical
positions, similar to the Foray.
Its a very neat setup and
impressive to see at this price.
The nylon straps are slightly
thinner than the Forays and
theyre softer to the touch, and
we appreciated the colourcoordinated buckle.
Comfort
The Events round
shape suits most
heads, and its huge
internal channels
keep you well
ventilated. Its shape
also means that the
Event needs very
little padding, with
just one large pad for the brow

and two central pads for the
crown. The result is an airy and
light feel when youre wearing
it, borne out by the very decent
weight 266g for our large
size lid.
Quality
Like the Foray, the Events

full in-mould construction
is impressive, as this
manufacturing method is
usually reserved for much
pricier lids. The Events finish
is top quality too, with our test
models matt neon red and
black colour scheme
providing plenty of
style. The only
HIGHS
downside is
Excellent finish,
the amount of EPS
comfortable, light
foam core exposed
around the base,
LOWS
Exposed EPS foam
so you will need to
could get damaged
take care not to
accidentally
damage it.
M/CA AD12
ONDALE.CO
N
N
A
C
t:
a
ll
Heed the ca
NE W
KIT
DE
UPGRA
FIZIK KURVE BULL BRAIDED

239.99 Classic sportive design with added tech
THE KURVE BULLS shape is based on the
even more flex. On the bike you have an almost
legendary Aliante (see issue 300 for a review).
buoyant sensation, not a bouncy or weird
Its swoopy, rounded and kick-up curve at the
feeling just beautifully supple.
rear makes for a saddle thats ideally suited to
You can also tune the Kurve; it has two
sitting in and grinding out the miles. So,
nosepieces included (and a tool,
why would you choose the Kurve over
plus a spare Torx bolt, which is a
WE SAY
the standard Aliante, which in a
nice touch). The soft nosepiece is
The Kurve Bull
similar spec weighs 8g less and is
the one that gives the greatest
20 cheaper?
comfort, and a switch to the hard
takes the brilliant
Well, that comes down to the
option feels pretty much the same
Aliante shape
saddles design. For the Kurve
as the latest Aliante R1 carbon. As
and adds some
range Fizik uses a patented rail
we mentioned that ones both
more flex
design called Mobius where the rails
lighter and cheaper so were
affix at the nose in the traditional
struggling to see why you would want
way yet have a strengthening bar at the
to change.
end of the straight clamp section, the rail
Choosing the Kurve Bull over the standard
then loops around the very edge of the
Aliante, or any of the Kurve range (Snake is
saddles hind-quarters, which
the Arione-style saddle, the
enables the main body of the shell
Chameleon the Antares) is really
(the bit you sit on) to flex. Think of it
just about whether you dont find the
HIGHS
like a hammock.
standard range flexible enough
Clever design,
Massive cutaways (inlaid with
and want to take advantage of the
superb shape
Kevlar mesh) in the carbon hull
Bulls more flexible design. We
LOWS
further enhance the flex, which
love the latest Aliante R1 and would
Pricey compared to
results in a saddle that has all of the
prefer to keep the extra 20 in
the R1 Aliante
shapely comfort of an Aliante with
our pocket.
FIZIK ALIANTE R1 BRAIDED

219.99
The R1 is the legendary
Aliante designs first update
in 15 years. Thankfully, Fizik
only improved it with a little
more kick-up at the rear
and a narrower nose and
managed to improve comfort
while losing a little weight
its down to a svelte 185g,
a 14g reduction. The classic
sit-in shape meant it was
always the default saddle for
the sportive or endurance
rider, and now the new
slimmer profile has opened
it up to those who prefer
something a little racier.
Endurance road is still a race. Lightweight and comfortable with an explosive edge, the Nivolet
walks a line which could see you crossing it first, or enjoying a relaxed day in the hills.
NIVOLET LC 5
VERSATILITY NEVER LOOKED SO FAST
Distributed in the UK by
www.hotlines-uk.com
Email: sales@hotlines-uk.com
Tel: 0131 319 1444
GERMAN BICYCLE TECHNOLOGY
OUT
SHOOT
CYCLING BOTTLES
6.99-12.99 Six ways to hold your drink
CAMELBAK PODIUM
ELITE JOSSANOVA
NATHAN FIRE & ICE
8.99
9.99
11.99
Camelbaks Podium has a proper

shut-off valve that is great when
youre chucking bottles in the car. It
comes apart for cleaning and on the
bike it can be left open full-time. The
nozzle offers generous flow and
plastic taste is
minimal. But in some
cages, this is a
rather tight fit in
your bottle cage.
Elites offering has a narrow nozzle

and flow rate is adequate rather than
spectacular. It can be locked shut, and
if you open the shut-off valve
aggressively, you can accidentally
unscrew the whole cap be gentle
and it works well
enough though. Taste
is inoffensive, with
minimal plastic
flavouring.
The Fire & Ice has a smart reflective

layer beneath its outer surface that
also helps keep your drink cool.
Unfortunately, the
bottle is oddly
undersized, making
it a loose and rattly
fit in many cages.
Its also got the
strongest plastic
taste of those on
test, noticeable
if you drink
straight water.
TACX SHANTI
ZEFAL ARCTICA
BEST
ON TEST
SPECIALIZED PURIST
HYDROFLO
12.99
The squishy-feeling Purist delivers
one of the least plasticky tastes, a
bonus if you tend to drink water rather
than energy drinks. Its
wide, rubbery nozzle
is bordering on too
big for some of
us, but it delivers
a huge flow
rate, and seals
effectively when
you push it shut.
11.99
The Shanti has a twist-to-close valve
that effectively seals the bottle for
transport, but which you can leave
open while you ride. The nozzle is nice
and small to fit in your mouth, but still
offers a decent flow rate if you give
the bottle a squeeze.
It doesnt come apart
for cleaning
though. Available
in 500ml and
750ml sizes and
in numerous
colour choices.
6.99
The insulated Arctica is meant to
keep your drink cool (or warm) when
youre riding. Its not as effective as a
proper vacuum flask,
but it definitely helps.
The valve is a fairly
basic one that you
have to pull open
with your teeth,
and even though
the capacity is just
700ml, the Arctica
bidon is still on the
large size
NE W
KIT
2
ON
THE
1WHATS
2 INDARK
THE MENU?
The Newton+s
controls are
unintuitive and we
found the menus
tricky to navigate
The crude graphics

mean the big
screen shows little
data and theres
no backlight
AINT
3ITHEAVY
Because the
sensors are
built in, the
Newton+ is very
light compared
to a separate
power meter
and computer
G EDGE
N
I
T
T
U
C
IBIKE NEWTON+
779 When is a power meter not a power meter?
THE POWER METER market has exploded in
Our unit repeatedly froze, requiring resetting
the last two years and is still gathering pace.
and recalibration, and we had problems with the
Clamouring for attention among all the startcadence and speed sensors not picking up. The
ups is the iBike Newton, a device first launched
battery life is terrible and it lacks a backlight. It
in 2004 and relaunched last year. Its unique
doesnt work in the rain because it sends
in the way it comes up with a power
the wind sensor crazy. More
figure see the box on the right for an
fundamentally, its a bad bike
WE SAY
explanation of how it works.
computer, with 80s calculatorA disappointing
The Newton weighs 82g and the
style graphics that display little
product save up
sensors 22g. Prices start at 599
data given the screen size. The
for longer and buy
without the heart-rate strap and
Isaac software is the opposite of
a better power
Powerstroke functions included in
intuitive and user-friendly.
meter
this version. The Powerstroke function
The Newtons design is its
uses the accelerometers and cadence
inherent problem. It relies on a set of
sensor to assess the smoothness of your
givens road surface, tyre pressure and
pedalling. Its a genuinely useful feature that
choice, riding position, clothing/helmet, weight
you can use to improve your efficiency.
of accessories fitted. Any deviation from what
We fitted the Newton to a Quarq-equipped
those were on the calibration ride will cause data
bike. It seemed to work fine, but was
inaccuracy. Some of the smaller quirks
actually displaying the Quarqs data.
would be forgivable if it was reliable
Once set up to display its own figures,
and much cheaper but the market is
HIGHS
compared to the Quarq there was some
competitive. At the time of writing the
Light, affordable
divergence in the data but the iBike
iBike is still the cheapest option but
appeared to be pretty accurate for
there are affordable power meters
LOWS
steady efforts and sprints. When fitted
coming soon and the well-priced
A nightmare to set
up, awkward to use,
to a bike with no other power meter,
current offerings Garmin Vector S,
very vulnerable to
the Newton still gave data that seemed
Quarq Elsa, Power2Max Type S, Stages
inaccuracy
believable, when it worked.
easily out-perform the Newton.
HOW DOES
IT WORK?
Unlike every other power
meter on the market, the
Newton doesnt measure
the force your legs put
into the drivetrain (at
the pedal, crank, spider
or hub), but calculates
your power by measuring
the forces that youre
overcoming wind and
gradient. It does this with
an array of accelerometers
and sensors to measure
wind, speed and cadence.
The cadence sensor
means it only calculates
your power when youre
actually pedalling. There
is also a CdA function that
is claimed to be able to
calculate your drag in real
time when the Newton is
used alongside a regular
power meter.
Set-up requires you to
program your height,
weight, bike weight, tyre
size and type, typical road
surface and usual riding
position. With that done,
and the sensors set up,
you then carry out a
10-minute calibration
ride. You then upload that
ride to the Isaac software
and store the data. Its
a lot more fuss than
fitting and pairing other
power meters.
POWER2MAX FSA GOSSAMER

785
When we tested the Power2Max
spider-based power meter, it
provided us with consistent good
quality data that was always
within 0-1 watts of our reliable
and proven control. We found
it worked well whatever the
temperature, and though it may
be a little on the heavy side, it is
well priced and good quality for
the money.
NE W
KIT
LAZER SOLID STATE 1

49.99 +++++
DE
UPGRA
MADISON MISSION
SUNGLASSES
Lazers Solid State

sunnies have an
oversized frame
that sits high at the
brow, keeping it out
of view when riding in
a head down position.
Chunky screwed hinges
support thick arms
that grip hard, but
they can be bent to
improve fit. The pliable
nosepiece self-adjusts
and grips well too,
and with three lenses
supplied (clear, yellow
and medium smoke)
these are cracking value
for money.
WE SAY
The Missions
are smart shades
at a fraction the
cost of big
name brands
44.99 Simple sunnies for a sensible sum

OF ALL THE kit we buy, eyewear has to be
Were not convinced the pads make much
amongst the most susceptible to the whims of
difference, but the frames supply enough grip
fashion. Remember those awful things the size
even on fairly narrow heads, and despite the
of ski goggles back in the 80s? Or what about
nosepiece having no built-in adjustment, the
those POC shades pros like Ryder Hesjedal have
glasses do a good job of staying put in use.
been pimping, which look like something Kanye
Our test set came with the Blue Mirror
West would wear on a night out?
lenses, which are ideal for sunny days. They
Madisons Mission glasses are
dont have the check-your-teeth reflectiveness
straightforward wraparounds with mediumof some, but look sharp and can be swapped for
sized lenses that provide decent levels of
other options (sold separately) if desired.
coverage, although theres a fair sized
Optical distortion is minimal, and a
gap below the lenses that on really
hydrophobic coating as found on
bright days might be annoying.
more expensive glasses causes water
HIGHS
The frames are stout plastic with
to bead instantly great for wet rides.
Well made and
screwed hinges, with just the right
The Missions are solidly made,
keenly priced
amount of friction to feel good
fairly priced glasses that perform
LOWS
quality. There are vents at the temples
well. For an extra 25 you can get a
No fit adjustments,
that let a welcome bit of air in, and the
three-lens set, with amber and clear
coverage isnt total
arms have rubber pads at the ends.
options to cover all conditions.
TRIPLE THREAT
DHB PRO TRIPLE LENS 29.99 +++++
DHBs bargain glasses include three lenses

(clear for night, orange for contrast, smoke
for bright conditions). They grip securely, but
are better suited to smaller heads as the lens
shape is quite shallow.
TEAM EFFORT
NORTHWAVE TEAM 39.99
Another clear/orange/smoke set, the Team
glasses cover all conditions. The springy frame
and adjustable nosepiece make them secure,
but a close fit and a lack of venting means
they suffer from fog and sweat build-up.
Muc-Off
Visor,
Lens &
Goggle
Cleaner kit 10
The best specs in the
world wont do you
much good if you
cant see where youre
going. Muc-Offs
cleaning solution is
safe for use on all
lens types, and the
included microfibre
cloth wont scratch
your precious shades.
TALOS ABOUT IT
TIFOSI TALOS 69.99 +++++
The Talos glasses come as another three-lens

package. They offer brilliant peripheral vision
and ventilation slots to prevent fogging, while
an adjustable nosepiece and bendable arms
make getting the right fit easy.
We ride for
mums, sisters,
friends,
daughters,
dads,
partners,
you.
Find your challenge today

breastcancernow.org/cyclingplus
Breast Cancer Now is the UKs largest breast cancer charity created by the
merger of Breast Cancer Campaign and Breakthrough Breast Cancer.
Registered charity nos 1160558 (England and Wales) and SC045584 (Scotland).
NE W
KIT
HEDS UP
HED ARDENNES PLUS FR 999
Heds 1503g Ardennes have
enormously wide rims that
make ultra-comfortable low
pressures very practical and
give an ideal tyre profile.
They are tubeless ready out
of the box, stiff, and the finish
of the hubs and rims is second
to none.
DE
UPGRA
DT SWISS RC28 SPLINE C

MON CHASSERAL
2249.98 Carbon clinchers for climbers
THE CHASSERAL IS a mountain in northwest

Carbon wheels can be distinctly firm, but the
Switzerland, so itll come as no surprise that the
Mon Chasserals are not, offering similar
RC28 Spline C Mon Chasseral wheelset is aimed
comfort levels to a good aluminium wheelset.
at those of a climbing bent. The wheels
Where they differ is in lateral stiffness,
are carbon clinchers built using a
which combined with their low
WE SAY
version of DTs RC28 rim with
weight, makes them fantastic
A set of top
improved heat resistance and
performers on the climbs. Their
class carbon
braking performance, and a
unbending nature is an asset
climbers that will
variant of the companys 180 star
heading downhill too, as the Mon
ratchet hubs with ceramic
Chasserals are supremely accurate.
ruin your bank
bearings. Laced with DTs own
Braking used to be the Achilles
balance
spokes and aluminium nipples, the
heel of carbon wheels, but these are
Mon Chasserals are a premium offering.
on par with aluminium wheels using the
The headline is their low weight: 699g for the
supplied SwissStop Black Prince pads, with
rear (1299.99) and 572g for the front
predictable slowing being accompanied by a
(949.99), including rim strips. Theyre
satisfying whine. Performance suffers a little in
tubeless ready, with the included set of
the wet, but its not terrifying.
valves adding 15g.
If ultimate all-round speed is your
Their 22mm wide rims are broader
goal, an aero set would be a more logical
HIGHS
than traditional ones, but relatively
choice. Lighter riders who get buffeted
Stiffness, weight,
conservative compared to the 23-25mm
by wind will like them, but while they
looks
offerings from many manufacturers. At
are excellent performers, the price is
LOWS
28mm deep theyre in the low-profile
very difficult to justify over high-end
Price, price, and
camp, with a blunt cross-section thats
aluminium wheels costing half as
price
unperturbed by side winds.
much, or less.
FAST ROLLERS
SPECIALIZED ROVAL RAPIDE
CLX 40 1500
The Rovals have fat, mid-depth
rims with a blunt section, but
still weigh in at just 1404g for
the set. The wheelset isnt
as stiff as some of the
competition but the skinny
spokes and wide footprint do
offer more comfort.
ACES HIGH
SHIMANO DURA ACE 9000
C24 799
Despite having a fairly narrow
rim by current standards and
only average levels of lateral
stiffness, Shimanos 1409g
climbing option remains a
favourite for its ultra-light
rims, exceptionally smooth ride
quality, and beautifully made
cup-and-cone hubs.
TREK Factory Racing
IAM Cycling
Alberto Contador.
Giro dItalia 2015 Champion
quipe Cycliste FDJ

Lotto Soudal
RECOVER LIKE A PRO
COMPRE SPORT Full Socks V2.1 optimise blood ow and stimulate venous return maximising muscle recovery. 8 of the top Pro Tour Cycling
teams around the world have chosen, trust and are committed to Compressport products for all their recovery and travelling needs.
www.compressport.uk.com
TYLE
TECH S
SCOTT RC
PROTEC
95 jersey 110 bibshorts ProTec
yourself with this innovative reinforced cycling clobber
DEFEET AIREATOR TALL

HI-VIS
9.99
THE US-MADE Aireator was launched
in 1992 and is an all-time classic. The
newest version is made from nylon,
Coolmax EcoMade (97 per cent of which
comes from recycled plastic bottles) and
one per cent Lycra for stretch. The open
weave fabric over the top of your feet
and the super-thin Coolmax combine
for superb breathability and comfort.
SCOTTS RC PROTEC range looks just like

any other performance Lycra but it has
one significant difference. Take a closer
look at the jerseys shoulder and the hip
section of the shorts and youll notice a
hexagonal pattern. This is ITD ProTec, a
fabric that blends in strands of carbon
fibre and is printed with a series of hard
ceramic hexagons. The carbon adds
strength and antibacterial qualities, while
SPECIALIZED AUDAX SHOE

199.99
SPECIALIZEDS NEW AUDAX shoe has
been designed with big-mile rides in
mind, tuned to offer a balance between
comfort and efficiency. It works too. We
found the sole offered plenty of stiffness,
for a great pedalling feel, with just
enough give when you want to ease off
and ride less aggressively. The weight,
620g per pair, is reasonable and theyre
available in baby blue, black, burnt
orange and white.
the ceramic surfacing is claimed to be

highly resistant to abrasion, offering more
protection than Lycra or polyester should
you find yourself sliding along the tarmac.
Both the shorts, which have an excellent
chamois, and the feature-packed jersey
are very well constructed, and neither is
compromised by the crash-resistant
fabric, so weve no problem in classing this
combo as one of the best around.
RIDE TECH STRIPE JERSEY

59.99
DESIGNED IN BRITAIN and made in
Italy, the Stripe is a super-light, closefitting summer-weight race jersey. Its
material incorporates UV protection
and it comes with vented underarms,
reflective detailing and a full-length
cam-lock zip. Factor in the excellent
rear pockets, full flatlock stitching and
grippy silicone hem and sleeve details,
and this becomes one of the best
jerseys you can buy for the money.
Well, the Reacto is amazingly fast, well equipped for the money,
and on all but the worst road surfaces very comfortable...the

Reacto is simply superb...
Cycling Plus on the Reacto 5000 in June 2015

Stiff, aerodynamic, and surprisingly comfortable, it climbs well, responds
instantly to big gear acceleration and descends like a rocket.
Bikes Etc on the Reacto Dura Ace in Jan. 2015
WWW.MERIDA.COM
Lifetime warranty on all
frames, including racing.
* Applies to frames manufactured since 2011
www.facebook.com/meridauk
REACTO range from 999.99 to 7,000 (model shown 2,000)
VERY IMPORTANT BIKE
BOARDMAN AIR TTE 9.8 Di2 DA

8999.99 Boardmans ultimate time trial weapon
FIRST SEEN AT the 2013 Kona
laser-scanned models of Boardman-sponsored
Ironman World Championships
athletes were added to the computers evolving
in Hawaii, Boardmans AiR TTE
bike designs to optimise airflow. Those same
is designed to be UCI-legal for all
athletes were then used for final wind tunnel
road time trials, and still offer those in nonand road testing.
UCI events a considerable aero advantage. The
The AiR TTE is far more aerodynamic at high
high-modulus carbon fibre monocoque frame
wind yaw angles (crosswinds), and still improves
is claimed to weigh 1.25kg, and incorporates
on its predecessor head on. At 20 degrees
a BB386 bottom bracket, an integrated front
Boardman claims a 24 per cent drag reduction,
brake, a rear brake behind the bottom
at 8 degrees its 14 per cent, and
bracket shell and rear-facing dropouts
head on (a still day) a solid 5 per cent.
(1) for perfect wheel positioning. It is
The frame module alone (frame,
SPECIFICATION
optimised for mechanical or electronic
fork, seatpost, bar, stem, extensions)
Weight 7.95kg (M)
setups, with all cables internally routed.
is 14-24 per cent faster depending
Frame AiR/TTE
The top-tube flows seamlessly in
on yaw angle, but add some wheels
Aerodynamic
ultralight UD full
to the integrated bar and stem (2),
and a rider and the complete package
carbon monocoque
and the cockpit is highly adjustable.
still creates an average of 7 per cent
Fork AiR/TTE
Although at present the base bar
less drag.
Aerodynamic
ultralight UD full
is fixed, the armrests have 10cm of
Factor in the additional losses due
carbon
vertical adjustment, 12cm horizontal
to chain friction, tyre deformation
Wheels Zipp 808
and 5cm fore and aft. With four
and so on, and Boardman says actual
and 404 Firecrest
carbon clincher
positions, the seatpost (3) allows
race performance on the AiR TTE,
Gears Shimano
for effective seat angles from 78 to
compared to the previous model
Dura-Ace Di2,
81 degrees, depending on preference
should be improved by 4 per cent.
53/39, 11-25
and discipline.
Maybe 4 per cent doesnt sound
cassette
Brakes TRP
Boardman recognised the worth of
impressive, but over 25 miles at
integrated
combining Computer-Aided Design
25mph, thats 144 seconds, or almost
Finishing kit
(CAD), Computational Fluid Dynamics
two and a half minutes saved. For the
CBoardman Elite
AiR/TTE integrated
(CFD), Finite Element Analysis (FEA)
worlds best Ironman athletes, it could
carbon bars and
and wind tunnel testing with an
lop almost 11 minutes from their 112stem, Boardman
approach that applied real-world
mile bike leg time.
AiR/TTE carbon
seatpost, ISM
riding conditions and athletes to the
It comes in two specs, either as
Adamo saddle,
new design for relevant performance
pictured, or with Shimano Ultegra Di2
Continental Grand
data. Using 2012s successful AiR TT
and RS31 wheels for 4999.99. The
Prix 4000 23mm
tyres
machine as a performance benchmark,
frame module alone is 3499.99.
Over 25 miles at
25mph, Boardmans
AiR TTE could save
you almost two and
a half minutes
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Only a rapeseed field

stands between Robin
and the Treks next
off-road adventure
TREK 920
TESTERS CHOICE
ROBIN
TREK 920
TOPEAK MODULA
JAVA CAGE 11.99
Original price 1375 Distance ridden 142 miles
Commuting and
coffee go together
perfectly, and this
cages adjustable
length and
diameter mean
it will secure
most portable
insulated drinking
cups, so youll
never need to be
without your
favourite brew.
OUT OF THE BOX WEIGHT 12.56kg (54cm) FRAME 100 Series Alpha Aluminium FORK Alloy Adventure
GEARS SRAM X7 Type 2 rear mech, X5 front mech, TT500 bar end shifters, SRAM S1000 170mm cranks,
42/28 rings and 11-36 cassette BRAKES TRP Hylex hydraulic with 160mm rotors WHEELS Trek Duster
Elite TLR Tubeless Ready 29in 15mm/12mm thru-axles FINISHING KIT Bontrager Elite Blendr 100mm
aluminium stem, Bontrager Race VR-C aluminium bar, Bontrager gel cork tape, FSA headset, Bontrager
27.2mm SSR aluminium seatpost, Bontrager Evoke 1.5 saddle, Bontrager XR1 Comp 29x2in tyres, Bontrager
BackRack Deluxe, tubular alloy front rack, Time ATAC XC6 pedals, Lezyne CNC cage
AT THIS TIME of year, Im

mixed off-road excursions. On the flat it can
often spoilt with some
sustain a decent lick, although I was aware
extraordinarily exotic and
of working fairly hard, and the weight
very fast road bikes to test.
means it flies downhill, but not up, needing
As fantastic as they are, none
a sit and spin approach.
has put a smile on my face in quite the same
Gearing is a SRAM mountain bike
way as my new long term Trek 920.
10-speed setup with 42/28t chainrings,
From the first image I saw of one online, I
although Ive not troubled the smaller one
knew it was the bike for me. Wheeling the
yet, and super-wide 11-36 cassette [2] for
Trek to the train station after collecting it
genuine go anywhere ratios. Unusually it
brought many inquisitive glances, and even
has time trial-style bar end shifters
though it was a squeeze on a commuter
protruding from the drop bar. They work
train, I got home and immediately
surprisingly well, proving simple
set it up to ride. Maybe its the
to grab and shift quickly, although
promise of possible adventures, or
theyll never be as convenient as
HIGHS
the combination of 29in
integrated brake/shift levers, and
Go anywhere,
mountain bike wheels [1],
time will tell if I decide to alter
carry anything
adventure-style frame and drop
them. The 2in tyres offer plenty of
ability, fun
bar, but it makes me want to ride.
cushioning, and both ride quality
The first outing was as much
and handling are great, with a
LOWS
Weight,
fun as hoped, the big wheels
relentless all-day feel.
independent brake
rolling smoothly over any road
TRPs Hylex hydraulic brakes
and gear levers
surface, and making light of my
[3] are very impressive with a
BELLROY
ELEMENTS PHONE
POCKET 75
The Bellroy
features beautiful
all-weather waterresistant leather
and zip, with
leather and fabric
internal dividers
for an iPhone 6,
cards, cash and a
key. It protects a
days essentials
in style.
strong, progressive feel, ample power and

comfortable levers. Bontragers finishing
kit is solid and performs well, with the
saddle especially comfortable. The complete
bike is no lightweight, weighing in at 12.9kg
with pedals, but with the potential to fit four
panniers and other bags, plus five bottle
cages, and with real back of beyond
credentials, strength is essential. Even so,
Ill be looking in to what I can upgrade to
make the Trek even more adventurous.
My upgrades
No upgrades yet
Total spend 0.00

3
TESTERS CHOICE
LAZER Z1 199.99
Ive been using
Lazers top-ofthe-range Z1 for a
couple of months
now and its
superb. Its got a
first-rate fit and
the retention
system holds your
head comfortably
and securely. The
venting is excellent
and it has quickly
become my
favourite hot
weather lid.
CHALLENGE
CRITERIUM
TYRES 52 each
These tyres are
supple and grippy
and great for use in
the summer. The
downside is that
they get cut up
easily, although I
never find myself
getting more
punctures than
usual. I think their
tan sidewalls look
great too.
SIMON
ORBEA AVANT
M30D
Original price 2499 Distance ridden 2052 miles
IVE DONE JUST over

are also new. I saw them hanging round
800 miles on the Avant
the office and my mild kleptomania meant
since my last long-term
it didnt take long before Id half-inched
report (issue 301), but at the
em. Theyre a little lighter and stiffer than
moment it feels like were
the Vision Team 30s they replace and look
strangers. The bike has spent a couple of
decent, although the cheap silver Ksyrium
weeks in our workshop waiting for a rear
logo sticker on the rims isnt what Id
gear cable replacement so weve only just
expect for 795.
been reacquainted.
New wheels have given me a good
After 2000 miles and continual use
excuse to use the Challenge Criterium
throughout the winter, I had also worn
tyres that have been sitting on my desk
the front brake pads down to the metal.
for the past two months. At 52 a hoop,
To replace the knackered old ones,
they arent cheap but are supple and
Madison sent me some finned Shimano
grippy in the dry. If youve got the money
pads [1]. With these fitted, I was
to spend on some designer-spec
expecting my brakes to be as
summer clinchers, you cant go
embarrassingly noisy as they
wrong with these.
HIGHS
were when I first got the bike,
Oh, did you see my Tacx
Those brakes, still
but thankfully they have given
Deva bottle cages [2]? Theyre
LOWS
me silent stopping power
colour coded to match my bike,
A few shifting
straight out of the packet.
because if you cant be quick,
problems
The Mavic Ksyrium Pro Discs
be cool.
My upgrades
WHEELS Mavic Ksyrium Pro Disc 795
TYRES Challenge Criterium 52 each
BRAKE PADS Shimano finned pads 24.99
BOTTLE CAGES Tacx Deva 12.99 each
Total spend 949.97
Jesse Wild
OUT OF THE BOX WEIGHT 8.75kg (53cm) FRAME Avant OMP carbon FORK Avant OMP carbon GEARS Shimano
105, FSA Gossamer 34/50 chainset BRAKES Shimano R785 hydraulic disc WHEELS Vision Team 30 Disc
FINISHING KIT FSA Gossamer alloy bar and stem, FSA SL-K carbon seatpost, Prologo Kappa Evo saddle
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TRAINING
Words John Whitney
habits of
successful
cyclists...
For top cyclists, winning is simply the final piece
of a complex jigsaw. What can we learn from the
habits and traits that help them there?
Every cyclist needs a long-term goal. You might be a beginner aiming for a first
century or Chris Froome eyeing up Tour de France glory. But as the intro says, that
ultimate end point is just the final piece of the jigsaw. Without short-term goals
youll always find a few pieces missing. If your race is two months down the line,
it can be very easy to just bumble along if you dont have smaller targets to tick off
each day, says Team Skys Luke Rowe. Short-term goals mean youre achieving
something every single day along the way.
TOP TIP
If youre cycling to lose weight, take it step-by-step. Its great that youre
committing to a stack of unwanted kilos, but its not only unrealistic to
focus on the end goal, its also unhealthy. Stick to a balanced diet, cut out
the junk and focus on small weekly weight loss targets.
Photography Tim de Waele
SHORT-TERM GOALS ARE VITAL
TAKE TIME OUT
NO HALF MEASURES
Its often said that pro
cyclists are at the level
they are because their
numbers have come up
in the genetics lottery.
While theres truth in
that, the desire to work
hard is just as important
according to GiantAlpecins Carter Jones.
I would put far more
weight on dedication than
innate physical ability. A
lot of people have talent,
but in the end I believe
it comes down to who
uses it the best and is
the most dedicated. This
is comprised of years of
consistent hard work.
This season is the first
in the WorldTour for the
26-year-old Jones, after
several years chipping
away on the domestic US
scene. My dedication
through those early years
has been the biggest asset
to my success, he says.
I figured if I tried for
long enough eventually
someone would notice!
TOP TIP
Have you ever come
away from a sportive
with an excuse? We
have, and usually the
performance can be
traced back to a lack of
training. Like any
endurance sport, you get
back what you put into
cycling. Youre not going
to magic a performance
out of the hat if you
havent worked hard in
the months beforehand.
Dedication to your craft

is crucial, but if youre
not careful it can also
become a hindrance.
Tunnel vision on goals
is a common trait in
successful cyclists, but
without variety and rest
it can lead to burnout
and a loss of motivation.
Despite being just
20, British rider Tao
Geoghegan Hart, of
American team Axeon,
has recognised this.
At the end of the
season Ill go on holiday
with my girlfriend and
live a different life for a
bit. We went to Oslo last
year and loved it. Its an
important thing to do for
a week or two each season
it gives me perspective
and makes me realise
how much I love what Im
doing. Its also a great
reward for the hard work
through the season. I also
like to get back to London
and hang out with my
family, picking my sisters
up from school, going to
dinner with my brother.
Get back to real life.
TOP TIP
Taking time out can
often feel like your
fitness is going
backwards, so if youre
taking a break from
cycling, stay active.
Trek Factory Racing pro
Frnk Schleck describes
himself as an outdoor
freak who goes hiking
in the mountains on
breaks from the racing
circuit. This will not
only refresh you
mentally, but exercise
other muscles that are
neglected on the bike.
STAY CALM
UNDER PRESSURE
Regardless of your ability,
if youre unable to hold it
together mentally youre
most likely doomed.
Cycling, and sport in
general, is littered with
athletes whove said to
have bottled it under
pressure; Cadel Evans
was often accused of that
until he finally won the
Tour de France in 2012,
anyway and Marco
Pantani, though again
successful at times in his
career, was fragile.
All athletes have
different ways of coping
with pressure. For a rider
like Michael Hutchinson,
a dominant time triallist
on the British scene, the
pressure largely comes
intrinsically, and he has
an interesting strategy
for coping with pre-race
nerves. I remind myself
that it doesnt really
matter and that nobody
really cares!
TOP TIP
Everyone has different
ways of coping with
pressure. One of the best
ways is to remove
yourself from the
situation and focus on
something else, its
what Mark Cavendish
does. I listen to music
or do something with
my family. FaceTime is
great for speaking with
my kids when Im
abroad, but when Im
home I end up helping
to colour in a Barbie
book or a sticker book.
Mark Cavendish
I listen to music or do something with my family.

FaceTime is great for speaking with my kids when
Im abroad, but when Im home I end up helping to
colour in a Barbie book or a sticker book
TRAINING
Many sportives have
the route available
to download on the
organisers website,
so do it ahead of time
and possibly even
ride it ahead of time
INDULGE (WHEN THE
TIME IS RIGHT)
The cycling season is a
long one, and not letting
your hair down every once
in a while is unrealistic.
I love a night out more
than anyone, says
Rowe, and when the
time is right Ill go out to
God-knows-what-hour
and have a drink. But
theres a time and a place
for it. Between October
and November in the
off season, go for it, but
during the season I need
to be on the straight
and narrow.
Alcohol is often seen
as a cyclists enemy but
Michael Hutchinson has
a fairly relaxed attitude
towards the booze: I
once watched someone
down a bottle of red wine,
then get up at 6am the
following morning and
set a national record, so
its not certain doom for
bike riders.
TOP TIP
You dont need to cut
out alcohol altogether in
the build-up to your big
event. The key is to
avoid excess, especially
before big training
sessions or sportives.
Alcohol will leave you
dehydrated in the
morning, so if you do
have an unavoidable
night out planned,
drinking lots of water in
between drinks can help
relieve that groggy
feeling. If you do think
about saying no to that
glass of red the night
before your big event,
know that many pro
riders are out there
somewhere saying yes.
EMBRACE YOUR
SUPPORT NETWORK
They say no man is an
island and behind many
successful cyclists are
supportive partners,
parents and confidantes.
My wife Peta is the
only person who says no
to me and who Im scared
of, says Cavendish.
She looks after me. She
understands my job and
is supportive when Im
away and looks after me
when Im home. She
does a brilliant job of
technically being a single
mum when I am away.
For Australian pro rider
Tiffany Cromwell, this
support network goes
deep. Whether its been
my training partners or
personal relationships
at the time, the positive
people around me have
certainly always helped
push me to that next
level. My coach is also an
important factor, keeping
me on track and pushing
for that next goal.
TOP TIP
Cycling can be a very
time-demanding hobby,
but its easy to work it
around family life. Its
possible to train plenty
during family holidays
without it getting in the
way, if you get it under
your belt before
breakfast. There should
be give and take too, so
never forget to support
your partner in their
hobbies and passions.
Genetics help, but

Carter Jones reckons
perseverance is even
more crucial
DO YOUR HOMEWORK
For Carter Jones, feeling pressure is largely a direct consequence of failing to do
the appropriate training, preparation and research prior to a race. Is he hitting
the numbers, has he packed all his equipment, does he know the key parts of
the course? If the answer is yes, then he doesnt feel any need to be stressed:
In the end all you can do is your best, and looking back, as long as I gave
100 per cent effort I can be happy. Maybe not satisfied, I always want more,
but happy.
TOP TIP
Many sportives have the route available to download on the organisers
website, so do it ahead of time and possibly even ride it ahead of time. Many
sportives, including the Haute Route and Granfondo Stelvio Santini, have
pre-event briefings where youll learn where likely pinch points are. Make
sure you attend them rather than relying on hearing it second-hand.
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TRAINING
LISTEN TO ADVICE
MIX IT UP
STRIKE A BALANCE
BE CONSISTENT
Sportsmen and women

can be headstrong
people who think they
know whats best
for their careers but
another set of eyes and
ears is important for
perspective. Hutchinson
says he continues to
meet people who know
more about cycling
than I do and is always
receptive to advice. He
calls this ability to take
things on board one
of the most important
habits for a cyclist.
For Team Skys Luke
Rowe, his coach Rod
Ellingworth doubles up as
a mentor who he can pick
up the phone and talk to
about anything. When
he says something its
for a reason and I really
take it on board. Hes
someone I look up to.
He doesnt talk much
bullshit. Some guys will
tell you what you want
to hear but hell tell you
what you need to hear.
Dedicating yourself to a
single pursuit is not only
physically exhausting but
mentally tiring, especially
if youre so rigid in how
you train. Most elite
cyclists have sessions
dictated by coaches,
but as long as youre
hitting those numbers,
theres nobody telling
you where you need to hit
them. I go exploring!
insists Cromwell, when
asked how she keeps
her training interesting.
Ill look at a map, pick
a point where I want to
get to and work out how
to get there. This is most
true at the start of the
season because it makes
me want to get back on
my bike. You never know
what is around the next
corner and it keeps the
riding exciting.
Shes also a big believer
in cross training:
Varying the workouts
keeps your muscles from
getting trapped in the
same routine.
For recently retired

Italian pro Angelo Furlan,
the same habits that
were useful when he was
at races were detrimental
when he came home.
When I was on the road,
travelling with the team,
I lived life at 100mph,
which worked for me as
a sprinter. It helped me
win races. That was
always hard to switch
off when I came home
and get back into
normal life.
It can be very tempting

to showboat. Whether
its on your local club run
or on a major mountain
stage of the Tour, flashy
shows of strength can
be counterproductive to
your main goal. Alberto
Contador is one of the
best Grand Tour riders
in the history of the
sport but latterly his
success has been built
on riding within himself
and building slowly and
surely with unwavering
consistency. Granted,
its still consistency on
a high level. Hes one
of the most dynamic
climbers in the world,
but almost always trades
theatrics to focus on his
ultimate goal of winning
the race. This was the
first man, in 2010, to
win the Tour de France
without a single stage
victory. At the time he
was almost criticised for
it but the history books
only recall the W beside
his name.
Geoghegan Hart
believes his own
consistency is his best
habit and a trait in all
riders that is often
overlooked. Its about
being able to plug away
day in, day out and not
losing focus on the end
goal, however far away it
happens to be.
TOP TIP
Advice is everywhere
but as Hutchinson says,
the ability to distinguish
good advice from bad
advice can be hard when
youre starting out.
Bend the ear of riders
at your club whove won
a thing or two good
advice will often be
found among people
whove had success.
TOP TIP
Core strength is
crucial to cyclists,
but is hard to
improve on the
bike. If youve ever
suffered from back
pain after a couple
of hours riding, a
weak core could be
the cause. Regular
exercises such as pelvic
tilts can strengthen
the back and eliminate
pain long-term.
Contador is one of the

best Grand Tour riders
in history but latterly
his success has been
built on riding within
himself and building
slowly and surely
Achieving an optimal
work-life balance is
what most of us are
striving towards
TOP TIP
Achieving an optimal
work-life balance is
what most of us are
striving towards. Unlike
Furlan, our cycling
comes under life,
so any time you stop
enjoying your cycling
it is time to step back,
take a break and
re-energise.
TOP TIP
Gains are always small
and incremental in
cycling, which means
that over a long period it
can often feel like youre
not making any. A good
way to feel tangible
progress is to pick a
climb in your area, ride
it as hard as possible
every three or four weeks
and upload it. Strava now
offers you a graph to
show your performance
on particular segments
over time and its
always a huge boost
to see a continuous
upward curve.
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TRAINING
KEEP YOUR
DIET SIMPLE
PUT YESTERDAY
IN A BOX
LEARN FROM
YOUR MISTAKES
KNOW WHEN
TO STOP
No cyclist ever became

successful without
paying attention to what
they put in their mouths,
but as with with training
its easy to overdo it and
get too fixated. Diet is
important to me, says
Jones, but I believe
its the most overly
complicated aspect of
sports performance. I
like to forget about fad
diets, gluten-free this,
paleo that. What matters
to me is that Im getting
the adequate amount
of carbohydrates and
protein at the right time.
You just know whats
healthy for you or not,
that chocolate bar versus
oatmeal. That said, were
all human and need to
indulge in a bowl of ice
cream once in a while.
Even cyclings most

successful riders have
bad days. Before Chris
Froome won the Tour
de France in 2013, he
suffered a potentially
race-ruining bonk on
Alpe dHuez, while
Geraint Thomas, entering
this years Tour of
Flanders as one of the
favourites, lacked the
strength on the day that
hed shown throughout
the spring. As a stage
racer, Schleck often finds
himself having to close
the book on bad events
as quickly as possible.
Ill analyse the race,
look at what I did right
and what I did wrong.
Then Ill turn the page,
forget it and think only
about tomorrow.
We all make mistakes. We

might overestimate our
level and take on a ride
thats incongruous with
our level of fitness, or
under-fuel and bonk.
The best cyclists make
mistakes, but how many
times do you see them
make the same one twice?
Its a huge clich,
learning from your
mistakes, but I think
theres a big difference
between saying it and
actually learning from
it, says Geoghegan Hart.
There are a million and
one mistakes to make in
a road race and they can
prove hugely costly, but
if you truly learn from
them, you dont make
the same one twice.
As Hutchinson says,
if youre motivated
to train, youll also be
motivated to over-train.
Even the best arent
immune to overcooking
themselves. Its human
nature to continue to
strive towards a target
and resting can seem the
antithesis to that. You
have to decide on your
rest days and stick to
them. You have to find a
way to allow yourself the
odd day off just because
you feel you need it. I
used to give myself three
duvet days a month,
extra rest days that I
could cash in whenever
I felt like it.
Taking days off from
training is something
that Cromwell has also
slowly come to terms
with. The number of
times Ive heard retired
athletes mention one
thing that they regret
in their career is not
resting enough. Athletes
struggle to sit still for too
long. You can continue
working at a high level
for a long time but
without rest you become
a diesel athlete rather
than a turbocharged
petrol engine. Its very
difficult to accept when
to stop. Some athletes
are better at it than
others but it comes down
to the mental game and
listening to your body
when it needs rest.
Energy gels? Bah, who

needs em? Even top
cyclists need proper
food on the move
TOP TIP
TOP TIP
Increasing your intake
of protein will help to
repair and grow the
muscles that are
damaged through
training, as well as
supporting the immune
system. Good sources
include fish, pulses
and whey
protein
shakes, but
processed
and red
meat should
be reduced.
Dinner during multi-day

sportives is a good time
to pick the bones out of
the stage that youve
just finished riding.
What seemed like a
disaster a few hours
previously can be put
into perspective and by
the time you get back to
your room, you should
have been able to draw a
line under it.
TOP TIP
If running out of fuel
towards the end of
sportives is a recurring
theme, its useful to
keep a food diary for
both the night before
and the ride. Bonking
will happen because of
a lack of carbohydrate
intake during the ride,
so counting calories
will show you what
your body requires to
meet demands.
Ill analyse the race,

look at what I did
wrong. Then I turn
the page and
forget it
Frnk Schleck
TOP TIP
Training constantly in
top gear can lead to
burnout, which can be
hard to both spot and
acknowledge. Have your
improvements started
to plateau or even
reversed? Do you give in
to excuses to cut short
training? Is your sleep
disrupted? Any of these
could suggest burnout
and mean its time to
stop and recalibrate.
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TRAINING
Words Zoe McDonald | Photography Russell Burton
WHETHER YOU CALL IT THE ZONE, THE HIGH OR THE RUSH OF A GOOD RIDE,
ITS A BIG PART OF WHAT KEEPS US PEDALLING. BUT WHATS THE SCIENTIFIC
EXPLANATION FOR THIS BUZZ, AND CAN CYCLING ACT AS MEDITATION?
TRAINING
WHEN WAS THE last time you were

overcome by a sense of awe on your bike?
A sudden realisation during or after a
ride that the physical effort required
matched your fitness perfectly. You lost
track of time, giving yourself over to the
cadence of your legs and the rhythm of
your breath.
A spate of new books, podcasts and
thinking is reframing cycling as the
ultimate mindful activity. Philosopher,
cycling enthusiast and writer Ben Irvines
book, Einstein & the Art of Mindful Cycling
(Ivy Press, 8.99), explores the way that
post-ride afterglow mirrors the benefits of
regular meditation.
I find the cycling high 10 times better
than the runners high, and I run a lot. On
my bike, theres a different depth to the
buzz. I regularly have times when Im with
a friend cycling through fields, and the
feeling of wellbeing is almost
overpowering. Its as if Im not sure I

deserve the euphoria, says Irvine.
He has a theory about what makes
the pleasure of cycling so great. In
evolutionary terms, humans have an
innate desire to explore, to boldly go. I
think theres a psychological reward that
comes from sating this desire. Whats
more, when youre running, youre far
more limited for distance and speed. On a
bike, you can cheat time. Theres also an
affectionate bond between man and
machine: a fondness akin to the feeling
you might have for a much-loved dog.
GET CONNECTED
At its best, cycling makes me feel at one
with the world, agrees Dublin-based
coach Alan Heary (alanheary.com), who
has worked with a number of Olympians
and was in training for last months Race
Across America when we spoke to him.
It definitely helps to reconnect me with

the here and now, whether thats the
people Im with, the landscape, or other
road users, he says.
The science backs this up. After exercise,
levels of oxytocin increase, just as they do
when you hug a loved one, or after sex. Its
the bonding hormone, increasing feelings
of empathy and connectedness. In addition
to this, cycling triggers a state of flow
total absorption in the task at hand, so the
boost you get mirrors the benefits of
meditation. Alpha brainwaves increase,
leaving you feeling serene.
Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi coined the
term flow (Finding Flow: The study of
engagement with everyday life, Basic Books,
from Amazon, 10.99). He studied
everyone from artists to
athletes in his quest to
understand and explain it.
An elite cyclist quoted in
the book, Simon,
describes the sense of
flow he experienced on his
bike as feeling: totally
absorbed, 110 per cent... It
just amazed me how I could
maintain such high
concentration for three
hours... My body felt great.
You feel like just nothing
can go wrong. Afterwards, I
couldnt come down; I was on a high. I felt

like I wanted to ride up that hill again.
When youre in a state of flow, it can feel
as if time has been temporarily suspended.
Your mind doesnt wander. Youre totally
focused on the ride, locked into a
comfortable pace that is just challenging
enough. Heary says the key is that you
cant think yourself into this state. If
youre conscious of feeling in the zone at
the time, youre not really in it. Its a deep,
subconscious state.
In the US a brand of quasi-spiritual

spinning, Soul Cycle, inspires a religious
devotedness in its fans (David and Victoria
Beckham, Tom Cruise and Lady Gaga to
name a few). Instructors gain individual
followings, and have their own trademark
style and musical personality that
enthusiasts match to their own. The chain
is planning on opening a London studio
this year, but take a look at any of the
profusion of new breed spinning studios in
central London (Psycle, 1 Rebel and the
like), and its clear theyre all tapping into
a similar vibe. This new breed of spinning
is hyper-competitive.
In classes, the atmosphere is like a
sexually charged rave (no, really), people
even call it a cult. Researching this piece,
obsessive spinners this side of the pond

sounded just as zealous as the Americans.
Its just like a club, says Katherine
Chamberlain from Amsterdam. There is
loud, hard music, intense clubby lighting
and people are sweating buckets. Everyone
is gasping together when you finally stop
doing insane high altitude climbing and
start going down hill. Youre pushed to
your physical limits in a room with your
senses overwhelmed, thats the rush...
Intensity certainly plays an important
part in the biggest highs of road cycling
too. Steven Tomlinson, 37, an urban
designer from Clapton, London, says his
most memorable rush came after
completing a leg of the Tour de France.
It happened after Id been cycling for
SUSTAINABLE HIGH
What Heary and Csikszentmihalyi are
describing is a mellower, more sustainable
buzz than the one you feel after youve
given your body a beasting with a sprint or
brutal hill session, or caned your energy
reserves to the max in a race. Although,
the high that comes after a painfully
hardcore spinning or turbo session, done
to a blaring soundtrack tailored to press
your personal override button, is arguably
more addictive.
CYCLING TRIGGERS A
STATE OF FLOW TOTAL
ABSORPTION IN THE TASK
AT HAND, SO THE BOOST
YOU GET MIRRORS THE
BENEFITS OF MEDITATION
RIDE YOUR WAY TO CALM

Andy Puddicombe, co-founder
of Headspace.com, a free meditation
app, shares his tips to maximize
cyclings meditative benefits
1. INTENTION
Even before you

step into the saddle,
your workout has
begun. Your mental
intention, as well
as the awareness
and focus that you

bring to your ride,
will dictate the
effort you put
in. Mentally
determine to
give 100 per cent.
2. BREATHING
Seen those
red-faced people in
the gym holding
their breath as they
push up a hill, or
suffer through a
spinning class? It
might look as if
theyre working
hard, but its
counterproductive.
Your muscles need
oxygen, deprive
them, and youll get
tired more quickly
and feel nauseous.

Focus on breathing
steadily, and
breathe out with
each effort.
3. TIMING
Rhythm is vital.
Every exercise has
its own inherent
tempo to recognise.
Tune into the
movement of your
body to find the
rhythm of ride that
works for you.
4. FORM
Good form ensures

you target every
part of the muscles
that are working.
When youre
exerting yourself,
its tricky to remain
mindful of good
form, but when you
focus, its possible.
Good posture is the
starting point.
5. RECOVERY
Whether its
recovery between
workouts or
between exercises,
an awareness of
your physical,
emotional and
mental wellbeing
during this
downtime is
essential. Stay alert
and focus on your
breathing and other
physical sensations.
Is your breathing
indicating you could
work harder, or that
you should ease off?

Check youre not
hunching your
shoulders, as this
limits your capacity
to take oxygen
on-board.
Recovery periods
are essential for a
healthy, well-rested
and injury-free
body. Listen to it,
treat it well and give
it the rest it needs,
so youll always be
ready for more.
TRAINING
about five hours at pace. The main

difference from a regular mood boost after
a pleasant training ride in the Surrey Hills
was having pushed very hard, and finding a
deeper sense of intense concentration
during the ride. It was raining really hard,
we were jostling for the back wheels, trying
to get a good position on the road, trying
not to fall off, anticipating the finish,
trying to go as fast as possible to keep the
pace up but not burn out ahead of the final
push. It felt like I was Mark Cavendish for
20 minutes! I was so elated afterwards, and
I often replay it in my head.
CALMING INFLUENCE
Most people, coaches and athletes
included, refer to this sort of experience as
an endorphin high, although the science
shows this is a misnomer. Professor Arne
Deitrich, a psychologist now at the
American University of Beirut, was part of
a US team that led a study back in 2004.
I had suspected long before we did the
study that endorphins couldnt explain the
sort of high cyclists and runners speak
about. Endorphins are proteins and, as a
result, cant cross the blood-brain barrier.
Plus, endorphins are what get released
when you take morphine-based drugs and
they have trademark biological signals
(constricted pupils being the most
obvious). None of these symptoms is
visible post-exercise, so it seemed
extremely unlikely endorphins had
anything to do with it.
THE POSITIVE FEELING

AFTER A CHALLENGING
RIDE HAS MORE IN
COMMON WITH A SENSE
OF CALM THAN A DOSE OF
AIR-PUNCHING EUPHORIA
In his research, what his team
discovered instead was that, In
all likelihood, the increase of
endocannabinoids (cannabis-like
chemicals, which act like messengers
between the cells of the body) is what
triggers feelings of deep contentedness,
calm and wellbeing post-exercise. When
we spoke to him, Deitrich explained feeling
incredibly frustrated that the myth of the
endorphin rush persists. Its just one of
those things; its become common
parlance, but its inaccurate.
Sports psychologist Alice Pinion
(headfirstsportingmind.com), who
works with everyone from World
Champions to newbies, agrees with
Dietrich that the positive feeling after
a challenging ride has more in common
with a deep sense of calm than a hyper
dose of air-punching euphoria.
The same changes occur in the brain
during exercise as during hypnosis. When
youre able to get yourself into the zone
during a ride, or a turbo session, its no
exaggeration to call it a form of selfhypnosis, she says. Pinion has designed

a series of motivational downloads to
listen to during training on a stationary
bike to tap into this potential, as during a
ride at the right intensity, the brain
is ideally conditioned to be open to
positive suggestion.
Pinion is also a fan of the spinning-style
use of music to boost endurance. The right
music can stretch your usual pain and
endurance threshold, she says. That voice
that says: this is too tough, Ive got no
more to give, is often the biggest barrier to
get past when youre trying for a personal
best, or want to boost performance. Music
acts on the idiomotor, the subconscious
brain at a suggestive level, and as a result
can help you to override your usual limits.
So whether its The Prodigy or The
Smiths that does it for you, it might be
worth giving a playlist a go (although
the use of headphones on the road is a
pretty contentious issue). If youre
planning a turbo interval session, Team
Sky even has a Spotify playlist, and there
are plenty of spin-specific streaming
suggestions out there.
R
A
E
G
E
D
I
U
G
FIT
SOLE
INSOLE
Weve tried to
describe the shape
of every shoe
here to guide you
towards the right
ones for your feet.
But fit is massively
personal, so
however tempting
online prices might
be, trying a shoe
on for real before
you buy is the only
way to really know
theyll work for you.
Having said that,
our testing proved
you cant always
assume that a shoe
that feels great at
first will feel great
after 50-100miles.
The baseline of
shoe performance,
nylon, fibreglass,
carbon fibre or
mixes of all three
are used for
different shoes
depending on price.
Stiff soles mean
maximum power
transfer but can
create pressure
spots if not
properly shaped.
Thin soles keep you
close to the pedal
and light soles
minimise weight.
The intermediate
layer between your
foot and sole. Some
shoes use a shaped
or adjustable insole
while others rely on
a shaped footbed
on the actual shoe.
Solid or vented
insoles can be used
to tune the airconditioning effect
and antibacterial
elements are useful
for keeping smells
at bay.
PERFORMANCE
SHOES
We kick out the watts and spin out the miles in 16
pairs of shoes from 50 to 170
There are some really fancy
lids and skinsuits about
these days but when it
comes to performance and
comfort, nothing you wear
is more important than your shoes. So, how
did we choose our selection and how you can
use our guidelines and reviews to get the
best possible pair of performance shoes for
the riding you do?
By performance shoes we mean bikespecific, rigid soles with a triangulated threebolt fixing for Look, Shimano, Exus and
Campagnolo-style plastic cleats, though a
handful of our shoes also have a two-hole
fixing for mountain bike-style SPD cleats.
Weve started at 50 but brands like DHB
and BTwin start their proper shoe range at
around 30 and were amazed how much
tech you can get for well under 100 these
days. We havent tested hyper-expensive

118 | March 2011 | CYCLING PLUS
shoes because at 200 plus youre generally

well into the world of rapidly diminishing
returns on your investment.
The shoes that did make our line-up are
shortlisted from a bigger selection we tested
to make sure that we included what we
thought was the strongest option that each
supplier gave us.
As for the actual testing, weve pitted
each shoe against its price point peers
simultaneously. It certainly looks odd, and
having an extra pair of shoes wedged in our
jersey pockets isnt comfortable, but by
wearing one of each shoe at the same time
and then swapping around on the road you
get the ultimate in direct comparison
clarity. It also means we can get live
feedback from ride buddies with different
shaped feet or shoe-feel preferences, and
we know all the shoes have been tested in
the same weather and conditions.
Those conditions include rides down to

zero under overshoes, wet and cold, wet and
mild and downright scorching (for Yorkshire
at least) early summer hill climbs. Weve
also used them for everything from dancing
up the steepest local climbs on Strava hunts
to full day rides through the Dales. On top of
our experience with these specific shoes,
weve also got personal experience and
other user data on their predecessors and
their makers, in some cases stretching back
over two decades of riding, and we also
share and splice our results with other
riders and www.bikeradar.com testers all
over the world to see if what works in
Coverdale also works in Colorado.
We believe the result is the most
accurate, authoritative group test youll
find anywhere. After all, if you are going
to kick ass with your riding, you need
the right shoes
1
4
UPPER
CLOSURE
Most shoes use a

mixture of synthetic
leather panels for
structure with mesh
sections in between.
Some use a fully
perforated synthetic
leather upper for
greater support.
Hard plastic heel
cups or reinforcing
webs and straps,
which form a
foot-anchoring
exoskeleton, are
seen on some
dearer shoes.
The more you pay,

the more fancy
the way your
shoes tighten is
likely to be. Velcro
wrap-over straps
are cheap and
effective, ratcheted
straps let you
tighten specific
areas more securely
and dial and fishing
line Boa-style
closures are the
current must-have
foot-clamping
mechanisms.
CYCLING PLUS | March 2011 | 119

GEAR
GUIDE
WE SAY
Not universally
comfortable but
potentially outstanding
performance shoes
for the price
DHB
R2.0C
64.99
Can Wiggles own brand

deliver at its bargain price?
Weight 658g (size 44, no cleats)
Sizes available 39-48
DHB has reset the bargain benchmark

for performance shoes with the R2.0Cs
low-profile carbon fibre sole. Its properly
notice a real difference when you stamp on
the pedals stiff, making it a great choice for
racers on a budget. You even get a plastic
heel cup and a ratchet strap for maximum
security, even if the strap is slightly bulky
and can create a hotspot if you overtighten
it. The very flat footbed and sheer stiffness
did lead to numbness and tingling for some
testers with broader feet, but if the fit and
stiffness agree with you, its minimal mesh
design makes it usefully weatherproof for
UK riding and the price is a steal.
HIGHS
Super-stiff, supersecure, cheap
LOWS
Stiffness can
cause numbness
XLC CB-R04
PLANET X 365X COMPOSITE
SPECIALIZED SPORT ROAD



The XLC R04s nylon sole is a widely used

unit that gives adequate stiffness without
adding excessive depth across the cleat
area. Its two- and three-bolt compatible,
with walking treads moulded into the sole.
Its hollow under the arch to give lots of air
con from numerous mesh-protected slots.
Theres a ton of mesh on top too, making
it a breezy and cool-feeling shoe except
under the Neoprene-lined tongue, which
can get sweaty. Theres enough support
from the heel and leatherette side panels
for reasonable stiffness when sprinting and
the Velcro straps snug down a wider footfriendly fit without obvious pressure points.
The same nylon sole as the XLCs gives

the Planet X 365s adequate stiffness plus
two- and three-bolt cleat compatibility
and good airflow through an insole with a
honeycomb underside, though there is a
definite lumpiness over the cleat and along
the outer edge. The upper is cut for a snug
fit with a tall plastic reinforced heel, so you
only need light tension on the single-click
release Atop dial for a secure performance
fit. That can stray into numbness quite
easily, so its worth going to a Planet-X
shop rather than ordering online. The
perforated, glossy upper shrugs off
weather well without being sweaty.
The Sport Roads nylon sole carries a

stiffness rating of 6 (out of 13!) and is
definitely the most flexible here if youre
trying to drive a big gear. But it combines
well with the shape of Specializeds Body
Geometry insole to create a comfortable
shoe free of pressure points, however
hard you ride. While it might lack dials and
ratchets, the well-shaped, supportive-but
-not-pinchy upper and padded cuff fitted
a wide variety of test feet without any
excess tension on the Velcro straps. Plenty
of mesh, plus air scoops under the toe,
keep it cool, though we did have to keep
overshoes handy in changeable weather.
49.99
66.66
75
GEAR
GUIDE
BTWIN
700
WE SAY
Impressively stiff and
light pro-performance
shoe for narrowerfooted riders and
great value too
79.99
Pro-level shoes at an
amateur-level price
Decathlons own-brand BTwin shoe

range starts at 29.99 but the 700 is a pro
race-winning shoe (Ag2rs Jean-Christophe
Praud has a custom coloured pair) with
a stiff full-carbon fibre sole and two Atop
fastening dials. Fit is distinctly long and
narrow and the flat forefoot over the cleat
area can cause numbness if youre too keen
with the dial tightening at first. There are
no really small sizes either. But the mix of
a plasticky exoskeleton mid-section upper
and thickly padded heel area provides great
security for narrower feet and these are very
light on the scales as well as your wallet.
BONT RIOT
BEST
VALUE
HIGHS
Stiff sole,
super-secure fit
LOWS
Narrowness can
cause numbness
SHIMANO R107L
DMT PEGASUS



Bonts carbon fibre bathtub sole wraps

up around the side and the front of the
Riot, giving impressive power transfer
despite being very thin. The carbon is heat
mouldable warm it in an oven, put the
shoe on while it cools and let it mould to
your foot. Repeat as often as you need. Fit
is short and broad, but Bonts Size Wizard
should find you the right starting size.
Done right the fit is so accurate that the
Velcro Z strap and ratchet buckle need
minimal pressure for a secure fit. The Riot
clamps rather than cuddles your foot and
while not as stiff as Bonts premium shoes,
the inflexible fit was still too much for some.
Shimanos R107 is aimed at the 105-level

rider and provides a similarly solid, userfriendly, high-value performance. The twoand three-bolt compatible glass fibre sole
with a carbon plate reinforcing the cleat
area is adequately rather than amazingly
stiff but its well shaped for a supportive fit
over long rides. The mesh and leatherette
upper is soft and breezy without feeling
sloppy and fits broad feet well. The sturdy
metal ratchet is reliable and sits on a big
base to prevent pressure build-up. Theres
a massive size range available and our
experience suggests Shimano shoes last
forever, boosting already good value.
The Pegasuss fibreglass carbon concept

sole isnt stiff enough to give you wings
when the power goes down, and a lack of
markings makes cleat setup quite awkward.
But the softer feel under foot does stop any
vibration/stiffness-related numbing on
long rides and, thankfully, the initially
obtrusive feel of the raised outer forefoot
edge melts away as the miles roll on,
potentially becoming a supportive
advantage. The plastic heel cup keeps feet
securely anchored but even with a broad
rubber pad over the tongue it needs gentle
tightening to avoid an obvious pressure
point under the Boa dial.
90
109.99
125
GEAR
GUIDE
WE SAY
Excellent secure,
stylish and comfortable
upper undermined by a
heavy, chunky and
cheap sole
SPIUK Z16R02
familiar sole
109.99 Stylish Spanish shoe with a very
Weight 664g (size 44, no cleats) Sizes available 37-49
The polyamide glass fibre composite

sole is the same as XLC and Planet X
use in their shoes, though ultra-rigid
is definitely overstating its stiffness.
Adequate would be more apt. It has twoand three-bolt cleat compatibility, with
extra mesh-protected airflow augmenting
the inclusion of both winter and summer
weight insoles. The perforated gloss
upper gives a superb glove-like fit with
a belt-and-braces mix of upper ratchet
strap with broad padding beneath it and a
lower Atop dial. The
combination gives
a really secure fit,
HIGHS
free of pressure and
Excellent ratchet
pinching, across a
and dial comfort
wide range of test
LOWS
feet. Its available in
High weight, only
tons of sizes too. If
adequate stiffness
its weight troubles
you, Spiuk also makes the sub-500g

Z16RC version with a pair of Atop dials
and a full carbon sole for 179.95.
INSIDE INFO
Fit for purpose
Not only are there a
wide range of shapes
and stiffnesses, but
cleat positions also
vary. Thats crucial
when setting up
new shoes, as just
templating position
off your old ones wont
always work. Tools
like Ergons TP1 cleat
overlay tool (19.99)
can help, but you can
also calculate cleat
position by sliding
the cleat backwards
and forwards until the
transverse centre line
sits exactly under the

ball of your foot. Find
the ideal alignment
by sitting on a table
with your lower legs
hanging down and
noting the natural
angle of your feet.
Correct cleat position
is crucial for long-term
knee health so if youre
unsure get a qualified
bike fitter to guide
you. If you experience
knee pain or cramp
with new shoes or
cleats, get positioning
double-checked by
a pro straightaway.
FIZIK R5
129.99

With its chrome lower strap detailing,

clean lines and Italian flag design under
the tongue the R5 is a super-stylish shoe.
The mesh and Microtex upper is noticeably
baggy so our 44 sample felt more like a
45. Sprint security depends on tightening
the ratchet strap to the point of painful
pressure. The sole flexes at full gas, but
its well shaped, shallow and comfortable.
Thankfully the same sole is combined
with a perforated Microtex upper and Boa
IP1 closure in the excellent new R5B (also
129.99), which scored a 4.5 in a test a
couple of months ago and would definitely
be our recommended Fizik option.
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GEAR
GUIDE
MAVIC
KSYRIUM PRO
WE SAY
More sportive
than sprint sole, but
superbly secure and
comfortable uppers
at a good price
130
The French wheel outfits

long-distance footwear
Mavics nylon, fibreglass and carbon

Energy Comp sole isnt incredibly stiff,
but the slight flexibility that makes it
less deadly in a sprint makes it more
comfortable on longer rides, particularly on
rougher surfaces. The Atop dial and twin
string and Velcro tab Ergo strap fasteners
combine with the stretchy tongue, broad
forefoot and tall, well-shaped heel design
to create an extremely snug-feeling and
secure shoe without obvious pressure
points. The mesh toe top offsets heat buildup, its light and well priced for the quality.
And if youre not a fan of dials, Mavics
100 Ksyrium Elite shoe has the same sole
and upper with ratchets and straps.
GIRO TRANS E70
BEST
ON TEST
HIGHS
Top-end comfort,
mid-level price
LOWS
Reasonably stiff
rather than super rigid
LAKE CX217
NORTHWAVE TORPEDO PLUS



Giros shoe range has been a great success

and this is no exception. The EC70 sole is
stiff enough to channel serious effort
through the pedals without flinching, yet
still very shallow for a direct feel. Under the
insole, the DIY tuneable SuperNatural Fit
mid-foot orthotic support helps its longhaul comfort and the fit is snug and secure
without cramping. The Evofibre upper is
breathable and weatherproof, wiping clean
like new whether you choose white, black
or neon. The broad base under the ratchet
strap spreads pressure well for excellent
all-round comfort and Giro longevity has
proved impressive too.
The CX217 is based around a carbon sole

that treads a nice balance between solid
power transfer and enough deflection for
comfortable long-distance cruising. The
upper is very much in the same vein, its
mix of mesh and multiple synthetic leather
panels giving a relaxed and mobile fit when
youre cruising with the shoes loose. But
tighten the dial Lake was among the first
Boa users and theyre pretty secure for
storming towards summits too. The CX217
comes in a large range of sizes, with extrawide fits available if you dont mind waiting
for a special order. The relatively high price
is offset by typical Lake longevity.
Northwaves Torpedo Plus shoe is aptly

named considering a long slim fit that
rules out wider-hoofed riders. The tall,
sculpted feel also makes it unsuitable for
riders with a sensitive Achilles area and
the mid-foot arch support is likewise very
obvious. If it does fit, though, the Torpedo
Pluss sporadically perforated microfibre
upper creates a very secure feel as you
tighten up the finely adjustable side dial.
The upper is naturally weatherproof and
easy to wipe clean. Despite shallow depth
for a connected feel, the Speedplay pedaloptimised carbon fibre and fibreglass sole
is usefully stiff for putting power down.
159.99
159.99
164.99
MOVISTAR Mechanics Trust Unior.
Life time warranty. Made in Europe since 1919.

Unior is official partner of:
www.unior-bike.com
bike@unior.si
Bike tools
GEAR
GUIDE
WE SAY
Very high
on performance
and seriously low on
weight but a crusher
if youre not
careful
HIGHLY
COMMENDED
BONTRAGER
VELOCIS
VERDICT
169.99
Does this super-light shoe

have a super performance?
Bontrager rushed us its new Velocis shoe

just before the end of the test deadline and
if youre into super-light, super-tight race
shoes youll be very glad it did. The Silver
Series carbon/fibreglass composite sole is
stiff enough for solid power transfer but
still shallow enough for a well-connected
feel, particularly in corners. Its also the
only shoe here under 500g a pair.
The easy-clean microfibre upper and
plastic heel cup give a very snug and secure
overall fit without crushing wider feet
across the forefoot.
Be cautious cranking
up the single Boa
HIGHS
dial, though, as it
Very light, secure,
treads a very fine
supportive, fast
line between
LOWS
assured anchorage
Overtightening can
and pins-andcrush feet fast
needles numbness.
GAERNE COMPOSITE CARBON

169.99
G.SPEED
Gaerne is a purveyor of high-end,

handmade Italian shoes, so you only get
a full carbon sole on its 199.99 Carbon
G.Speed. But the sole of its Composite, with
its carbon centre spine, is still reasonably
stiff, and is also very shallow for a powerful
but connected feel. Despite a generously
wide forefoot, the combination of subtle
underfoot shaping, a plastic heel cup
with a tall, well-shaped cuff and a mainly
microfibre upper makes for a locked-in feel
even before doing up the Boa dial. Thats a
good job too, as the dials central position
loads pressure across the top of the midfoot, which can be painful if over tightened.
As much as different feet will suit

different shoes, we were still surprised
how many of the shoes in our wider
test group didnt seem to suit anyone,
with price no guarantee of greatness.
But the fact that three out of five
sub-100 offerings score 4 or more
shows there are bargains, with Bont
and Specialized challenging when it
comes to value, but genuine pro-level
performance just squeezed the BTwin
700 ahead in the affordability stakes.
Mavic turns in an impressive costeffective performance at 130 but if
you really want a standout superlight race shoe we reckon the brand
new Bontrager Velocis is well worth
paying for.
Despite a seriously strong
performance by the budget options
our overall winner isnt cheap, but the
outstandingly supportive and secure
Giro Trans E70 is well worth the extra
investment its comfortable, stiff
enough for sprinting and has the
ability to shrug off the weather.
Graham Watson
RIDE.
FIGHT.
WIN.
ORCA COFIDIS REPLICA
Orbea celebrates its 175th anniversary in 2015 with the
enthusiasm that has always characterized the company.
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in the biggest events in the international pelotn, with
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the sprints with Nacer Bouhanni.
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BIKE TEST
LAP OF HONOUR
We put four super-efficient, Di2-equipped aero bikes through the
ultimate test in one of the worlds best biking destinations
WORDS GUY KESTEVEN PHOTOGR APHY MICHAEL KIRKMAN
he slowly rising sun throws shadows

straight down the road as we tap an
apprehensive tempo out of Port de
Pollenca, Majorca. Were a group of
four best mates about to face our
biggest riding challenge.
Ryan spins past on Boardmans AiR
9.4 Di2 to take a turn on the front and I
know Ill be staring at those brake-free
seatstays a lot during this ride. As we swing
away from the main road and into farmland,
Ben the engine Propels (Giants Propel

Advanced Pro 0) a big gear up to point duty, but
Paul, on the BMC TMR01, is resolved to keeping
his nickname of Shadow. Im hoping hes
feeling like he shouldnt show his face right
now anyway. After Ryan suggested Majorca as
this years group destination, Paul was the one
who immediately blurted, A lap of the island is
312km. Nobody was smart enough to back
down from the challenge until it was too late for
entrenched egos, and now here we are.
BIKE TEST
Were smart enough to back down the gears

sharpish as the road rises up the first serious
climb. With 20,000ft of vertical gain the
climbing involved in this epic lap is potentially
more daunting than the sheer distance.
Despite performing flawlessly on our warm
up spin yesterday, it seems like my Cervelo S3
Ultegras Di2 is as nervous as I am; skipping and
chattering across the block as I try and find a
lower ratio. I pull over and reset the wheel,
hoping its just misaligned after swapping out
the Cervelos original slow and wooden feeling
Mavic Yksion Comp tyres for Continentals
benchmark GP4000S II. Even with the wheel
perfectly in the neat dropouts at the bottom of
the thin stays its still not indexing right. I hit
the panic button on the Di2 control box, cycle
the lever and wait for Shimanos genius to
regain control.
While electric shifting might add weight, cost
and complexity, especially on a bike like the S3
where the exposed belly battery looks like an
ugly afterthought, its function is undeniably
flawless. In fact, Ryan is still gushing praise for
the sheer brilliance of its self-healing mode as
we crest the wooded col and front mech servo
motors shunt chains across onto big chainrings
for a welcome surge in cruising speed.
The extra weight of deep wheels and Di2
hardware might not make these bikes best
suited to climbing, but their enhanced
aerodynamics make any speed gained easier to
sustain. Unlike many original aero road
machines and older deep section wheels they
mostly handle with reassuring confidence on
the sweeping turns and stacked switchbacks
that characterise the mountains of northern
Majorca. Only the Giant is causing concern with
an occasionally flutter prone front end at high
speeds. While the aero SpeedTrap brakes on the
back of the fork legs are impressively powerful
and controlled at first, heavy braking starts to
make the carbon rims of Giants own brand
wheels feel inconsistent. The other downside of
full carbon rims is highlighted when Ryan clips
some debris on a hairpin, splitting his tyre and
rim in the process. Luckily we stuck the Mavic
tyres off the Cervelo in the support van so we
swap one of them on, but theres nothing we
BOARDMAN AIR 9.4 DI2 3999.99
SPECIFICATION
HIGHS
Weight 7.81kg (M)

Frame AiR carbon
Fork AiR carbon
Gears Shimano
Ultegra Di2
Brakes Shimano
Ultegra 6800
Wheels Boardman
B4P SL carbon
Finishing kit
Boardman stem
and bar, AiR carbon
seatpost, Fizik
saddle, Continental
GP4000S II
23mm tyres
Clean aero efficiency

with very user
friendly handling
and ride quality
LOWS
Poor rear brake
feel and heaviest
on test despite
carbon wheels
BUY IF
You want a very
coherent, easily
enjoyable aero
all-rounder
The stunning,
seemingly endless
descent to Soller
is a nerve and tyretesting treat
can do about the small crack on the inside of the

rim apart from hope it holds.
Hunger games
Were soon back into a rhythm, rolling past the
legendary dead end road that snakes down to
the cove at Sa Calobra. The steady climb up past
the mountain lakes and tunnels of Son Torella
and the stunning, seemingly endless descent to
Soller is a nerve and tyre-testing treat, but
theres a feast for the eyes as we climb into the
village of Deya. With the warmth of the day and
steady climbing pulling heart rates up and zips
down its a natural place to break for coffee.
Its another sort of natural break for me as I
try and get rid of the stomach cramps thatve
been dogging me since toothache forced me to
hit the painkillers in the middle of the night.
Im significantly lighter at least as we contour
round the stunning amphitheatre-like setting
of Deya and round to even more jaw dropping
views on the northern coast road. Ive managed
to chew down a bit of ham and cheese baguette
and Im joining in the banter rather than biting
back bile.
Its all peachy until Ben drops a morale
bomb by pointing out that the 135 miles still to
go is further than hes ever ridden before.
Thankfully, the BMCs predatory descending
character is enough to get him right back into
the game, making the most of the powerful
brakes, consistent alloy rim braking and razor
sharp yet surefooted handling of the Swiss
speed weapon down into Andratx.
Something snaps
in me and I resolve
to at least get us
into town at a
decent pace
duty and were soon scooting along past the

mega yachts in the harbour before hooking up
with Mick to refill pockets and bottles before
heading south out of town. Palma isnt quite
finished with us though as Im too late spotting
the only pothole we see all day and after the
others smash into it theres some worried
wheel checking right under the airport flight
path. These are all pro-strength bikes designed
to take serious hammer and thankfully theyre
all fine.
The killing zone

As much as were not sorry to see the back of
the beaches covered in BBQd bodies, we know
this is where the real challenge begins. I open
the innings with a long pull towards the
horizon, making the most of the Cervelos
CERVELO S3 ULTEGRA DI2 3999
Ryans got over the slower rolling sensation

of the Mavic front tyre and the Boardman is
back on point as we climb back out. The acid in
my legs is nothing compared to the acid in my
stomach as we pull over the top, but I get
another bite of sandwich and a swig of diluted
energy drink down. Ryan, Ben and Shads have
demolished most of the food supplies so our
photographer Mick offers to drive ahead into
Palma and stock up. I stick the last bresaola and
cheese bagel that Ben lovingly prepared last
night onto the mini pump in my back pocket
and we set off just in time to come round a blind
corner into a near head on collision between a
hire car and a Spanish truck. Somehow we
manage to stop with millimetres to spare but
Bens really cooked his rims now.
As we pass a sign saying 22km to Palma
something snaps in me and I resolve to at least
get us into town at a decent pace. With the
shallowest rims and seriously smooth ride its
not the most naturally aggressive bike here but
with a deep bend of the elbow and a dig into my
reserves I keep the big ring churning on the S3
all the way into town with blinkered
commitment. Were soon all jolted back awake
just in time to tackle the traffic light grand prix
through Palma.
Its the powerful acceleration and brakes of
the BMC that put it on pole position for urban
SPECIFICATION
HIGHS
Weight 7.64kg
(56cm)
Frame Cervelo
Smartwall aero
Fork Cervelo FK42
tapered carbon
Gears Shimano
Ultegra Di2
Brakes Shimano
Ultegra 6800
Wheels Mavic
Cosmic Elite
Finishing kit 3T
stem and bar,
Mavic Yksion Comp
23mm tyres
Impressively
comfortable,
efficiently fast aero
all-rounder
LOWS
Low grade
wheels and
tyres, ugly Di2
installation
BUY IF
You want an
ultra-efficient
yet comfortable
distance machine
BIKE TEST
BIKE TEST
The roads are

quiet enough to
let us pull a
proper staggered
echelon
BMC TMR01 4000
SPECIFICATION
HIGHS
Weight 7.62kg (M)

Frame Pure carbon
P2P subA
Fork Pure carbon
subA
Gears Ultegra Di2
Brakes BMC
integrated
Wheels Zipp 60
Finishing kit 3T
stem and bar, BMC
integrated headset,
Fizik Arione R7
saddle, Continental
GP4000S II
23mm tyres
Outstandingly
accurate, confident
and powerful
feel with equally
sorted kit
LOWS
Firm ride feel,
faffy brakes, limited
tyre size
BUY IF
You want an
outstandingly
driven and dynamic
feeling performer
comfort thats so far left shoulders, hands

and hindquarters feeling fresh. Ryan rolls
through on the Boardman to relieve me,
wind sliding over the smooth tubes of the
AiR for as long as he can keep spinning the
close ratio block. Then Ben takes point,
providing welcome shelter for us all behind
the Propel as we will his wattage round the
south edge of the island.
The roads are quiet enough to let us pull a
proper staggered echelon as Shads takes the
angular BMC to the cutting edge of the
bunch. The aero advantage of the bikes is a
massive physical and psychological bonus as
we churn big gears across the barren
landscape. Long turns at max torque have
taken their toll by Ses Salines though and a
another coffee stop is universally welcomed.
I try and fail to order a drink of milk to
settle my still seething guts. Even milk from
a tin jug helps though and after punishing
the porcelain again, refilling pockets from
the van and scooping another handful of
chamois cream into our shorts, we clip in,
man up and roll out again.
I try a feeble pull on the front, but Ben

soon surges past, putting the sleek frame
and deep wheels of the Giant to paceboosting use as I wilt into his wake. Ryan is
still pulling whenever he can, but every
slight rise is hurting as he struggles to settle
a stomach thats working as hard as his legs.
Shads keeps us on track with Garmin
prompts but hes starting to feel the extra
fatigue from his conspicuously rigid ride and
refuses to tell us how far there still is to go.
Ryan and I try and use the kilometre
marker stones as a positive by taking 2km
turns on the front, but a slight rise after
10km is enough to tip my guts over the edge
again and Ben resumes the lead.
Easier rolling
After more, mercilessly long stretches of
main road, Paul steers us through a welcome
section of rolling, rural lanes that lift us out
of the saddle and lift our spirits. We bounce
through Arta with a sense of building hope.
Ryan and Ben put in epic pulls over long rise
and fall road sections and the cassettes weve
all been staring at for over 10 hours are
running their chains over encouragingly
small sprockets. Shads still isnt telling us
how far weve gone across the seemingly
endless prairie towards Can Picafort, but
there cant be more than 10 per cent left now.
Ben blitzes the flat sections, Ryan and I tow
whenever the road curves upwards, while
Shads fills the gaps and guides us closer to
home. We can see the mountains of the
morning silhouetted by the falling sun to our
left and dare to let the enormity of what
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Excellent 9.2/10
BIKE TEST
GIANT PROPEL ADVANCED PRO 0

3999.99
When Shads
shouts there are
eight miles to go,
I fold into
freewheeling
surrender
weve already done start to sink in. Weve been

trying to ignore the scale of the challenge, but
now the end is almost within touching distance
we sneak final furlong gels through furtive
grins. Saddle sores, burning shoulders,
throbbing hands and crackling waves of cramp
are replaced with urban impatience and
increasing euphoria as we stop-start through
pedestrian crossings in Can Picafort and the
busy Saturday night streets of Alcudia.
Shads is on the charge, making the most of
the BMCs muscle as he punches out of each
roundabout. Im fighting to stay in contact and
when he shouts there are eight miles to go, I
fold into freewheeling surrender. It cant be
eight miles, Ive been doing the maths, surely
its only five. I cant do eight; thats almost
another half hour. With Mick and the van
already at the finish and the gap to the group
widening into a chasm of confidence theres
nothing to do but flog myself back onto Ryans
wheel . Thankfully the Cervelo is as responsive
and eager as it has been all day and were soon
surging round the beach side bike path
numb to everything but the sign at the edge
of town.
While my stomach is still seething
and barely-fed muscles are shivering
uncontrollably, the Cervelo has kept the rest of
me wrapped up like cotton wool. Its carried me
around the island with flawless poise and easy
speed like a sportive bike with a built-in
tailwind. The super-compact bar and cheap
tape Ryan initially balked at on the Boardman
now feel like home. Its never put a foot wrong
or failed to sustain a gear as long as possible all
day and the chipped carbon rim has held out

fine. Bens big Propel has handled impeccably
and swallowed miles like sweets since we left
the mountains, and theres no doubt wed still
be out in the prairies without its alchemic
ability to turn muscle into maximum speed.
Its the BMC thats really stood out on our
marathon lap as well as pre-and post-epic test
rides though. Its not a forgiving or warmly
friendly bike in appearance or ride quality,
but its precise handling and powerful
responsiveness give it a predatory performance
that puts it top of the fast bike food chain. Its
the bike thatll be first to the top of Sa Calobra
two days later and the bike all four of us and
our wider test team would all pick from this
high quality quartet. Perhaps most significantly
its the only one that wont be going back home
but forcing a wallet out of the pocket of one of
our testers instead.
For now though its time to roll straight to
the restaurant, leave our bikes on the beach, get
a beer in our hands and let the incredible 330km
ride these bikes have carried us through slowly
sink into our salty, shell-shocked brains.
SPECIFICATION
HIGHS
Weight 7.61kg (L)

Frame Propel
Advanced grade
composite
Fork Propel
Advanced grade
composite
Gears Shimano
Ultegra Di2
Brakes TRP Propel
Wheels Giant
60mm carbon
Finishing kit Giant
stem and bar, Giant
P-SL1 23mm tyres
Stylish, effortlessly
fast frame with kit
to match
LOWS
Occasionally
unnerving handling
on large size,
inconsistent
braking feel
BUY IF
You want stop and
stare looks with full
gas performance
SUNDAY 27 SEPTEMBER 2015

65 OR 100 MILES OF CLOSED ROAD CYCLING
SET IN THE REGAL SURROUNDINGS OF
SCOTLANDS MAJESTIC NORTH-EAST.
FOR MORE INFO AND ENTRY
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184 Whiteladies Road
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252 Upper Richmond Rd
Putney SW15 6TQ
R
A
E
G E
GUID
KEYS
PROTECTION
There are various

types, but they
all work a lock
mechanism by
moving pins or
discs into a certain
alignment to allow
the lock plug to be
turned by the key
and the plug to
operate the
lock mechanism.
Nobody wants a
bare metal lock
clattering against
their frame, so
some protection
in the shape of a
rubber coating or
a material sleeve
will keep your bike
looking good, and
prevent the lock
from corroding.
140 | August
July 2015
2015
| CYCLING
| CYCLING
PLUS
PLUS
3
4
SHACKLE
LINKS
We know it as the
U-shaped part of a
U-Lock or padlock.
Its called a shackle
because thats
exactly what it
does: shackles
two things
together. In our
case, its shackling
our bikes to
something sturdy.
Chains are made

up of links; hoops
joined together.
The smaller the
internal diameter of
the links the better,
as this gives less
space for a lever to
be inserted. It also
gives chain locks
their flexibility,
adding versatility.
LOCKS
& CHAINS
Carry-able security all cropped, cut, and hammered

in the usual Cycling Plus manner
Right away lets get one
important point across:
no lock is unbreakable or
unpickable. Armed with
the right tools, either to
break or pick a lock, a person who really
wants to steal your bike will be able to,
no matter what you lock it up with. What
you can do is deter the bike thief looking
for an easy steal, or give the more
determined thief a much harder time.
With that in mind, one of the best bits
of advice we can give you after many years
of busting and picking locks in our lock
tests, is to use two locks of different types
from different brands. If a thief is adept at
picking a certain type of lock and has the
tools to do so, its less likely they will also
INSIDE INFO
Make it difficult
If a thief is determined
no lock will prevent
your bike from being
taken. Your aim should
be to make it difficult.
If it takes more time
and makes more noise,
your average thief
is more than likely
to look for an easier,
quicker and quieter

target. Fit your lock
so its hard for you to
get to the keyhole and
fill the lock with as
much bike and object
as possible. These two
simple things make
them harder to pick,
lever, crop or just
plain hammer.
have the tools or the knowledge to pick a

completely different type. Two budget
locks that are wildly different in style and
key/lock-cylinder types are sometimes
better than just one expensive lock.
Weve been breaking locks in our tests
for years. We use tools and picks that are
easily obtainable, and easily carried, and
more importantly reflect what is being
used to steal bikes out on the streets.
We use bolt cutters that can be carried
concealed up a baggy sleeve (30in long)
with cutting blades we shape and harden
ourselves. We use the same methods that
your lowlife bicycle thief is likely to
employ, getting our tools from the same
sources, and learning how to use them in
the same way. Youll understand why we
dont go into more specific detail
Occasionally when we get a lock we have
a hunch is a little weak, well have a go
with a simple lump hammer first, mostly
for the fun of hitting something really
hard. Weve never had good results with
cans of compressed air and a hammer, so
we no longer bother with that test. The
important thing is, our lock test is one of
the harshest in the industry that actually
reflects the real world. If a lock lasts more
than a minute with us, its pretty good.
GEAR
GUIDE
ABUS BORDO
GRANIT X
PLUS 6500
99.99
Light, compact locking
Weight 1607g Internal dimensions

Variable Bolt crop test 18 seconds
Portable cutter test 22 seconds
Picked Passed Hammer Passed
HIGHS
Can fit around
large objects
LOWS
Pivots will always
be a weak point
Articulated link locks like the Germanmade Bordo are useful as they offer the
shape changing and fill-ability properties
of a chain while having a structure that
folds into a neat box shape. You can fill
the lock with the frame, front and rear
wheel, and still have room for a lamppost.
The weak spot is always going to be the
links though, and bolt croppers quickly
popped this one open. But, if you combine
the Abus with a small U-Lock, its size
and versatility quickly begin to show
their benefits.
WE SAY
The 6500 is a
good performer,
but versatility is
the thing
ONGUARD 8002
SQUIRE HAMMERHEAD 230
SQUIRE HAMMERHEAD
290 COMBI
53.99

290x113mm Bolt crop test Passed
Portable cutter test: 32 seconds
Picked Passed Hammer 8 seconds

Picked 29 seconds Hammer Passed

Picked 38 seconds Hammer Passed
Some locks just have a feel that begs for

some hammer time. Even so, we were still
a little surprised when this popped open
after just five hefty blows in eight seconds.
Few thieves actually carry a hammer, as
while it can be effective it attracts
attention and the effort usually damages
the bike. For such a large lock the OnGuard
is surprisingly light, and this lack of weight
is reflected in a disappointing cutter test,
where it gave up the ghost quicker than
wed have liked. It would work when
combined with another lock, but on its own
its security leaves a lot to be desired.
This is the same diameter as the

Hammerhead 290 Combi and is seemingly
made from the same material, but we
managed to cut it a second quicker. We
were also able to pick it successfully, and in
even less time, and frankly were not
exactly experts at picking locks. Its a
decent size, though, with enough space for
you to shackle the frame and both wheels
to most street furniture. In combination
with another style of lock, preferably from
a different brand, it will offer additional
protection. As a standalone product there
are much better options out there.
The great advantage of a combination

lock is that you dont have a key to lose,
the downside (apart from forgetting the
combination) is that theyre always going
to be more susceptible to picking. Theres a
trick to this one, and once learned again,
for obvious reasons were not giving more
details it doesnt take long to open. The
shackle didnt stand up that well to cutting
either, and although the generous internal
dimensions make this a versatile lock for
using almost anywhere, wed only ever
recommend it in conjunction with another
lock of a different type.
42.99
49.98
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01827 286267
info@pragmasis.com
www.SecurityForBikes.com
+44 (0)1709 365408 (UK)

info@bikeboxalan.com
www.bikeboxalan.com
GEAR
GUIDE
BEST
ON TEST
WE SAY
The Granit X Plus
540 is a typically
impressive lock
from Abus
ABUS GRANIT X
PLUS 540
89.99
Made of tough stuff

Portable cutter test 2mins 12 seconds
Considering it weighs only a shade

over 1.5kg the Granit X Plus performed like
an absolute beast. The internal dimensions
are just about perfect for fitting around
the frame, both wheels and standard
street furniture, completely filling the lock
to minimise potential leverage. No amount
of hammering, picking or levering touched
this and considering its reasonable
weight, over two minutes of cutting is
very respectable. Few potential thieves are
going to hang around making noise for
anything like that time. If the balance of
security and weight is paramount, theres
very little that comes close to the Granit
for sheer Teutonic toughness.
HIGHS
One of the best
U-Locks ever
LOWS
Youre still carrying
over 1.5kg of steel
HIPLOK DC
59.99
KNOG STRONGMAN
79.99

130mm x 70mm Bolt crop test Passed

Portable cutter test: 1 minute 20 seconds
This weighs only a little over a kilo but

turned out to be surprisingly tough. In spite
of its size it has a decent shape, with just
enough room to lock both wheels and the
frame to most bike racks and slimmer
street furniture. Its very well protected
too, probably the kindest lock here when
its in contact with your frame. Theres also
a very welcome rubber cover over the lock
mechanism itself, which seals it very well.
It comes with a metre-long cable lock,
which is handy as a deterrent and maybe
for your helmet or saddle, but proved
disappointingly flimsy against tools.
Dont let the Knog styling put you off

from what is hidden within. We were
surprised at how tough this lock was. The
internal dimensions are similar to the
Kryptonite New York Mini, but the squareish shape of the hardened steel shackle
makes all the difference when it comes to
locking up a bike and two wheels. That
little extra room in the corners allowed us
to use this lock in more places. Combine
that with low weight and a soft rubber
covering thats kind to any bike and you
have a worthy little U-Lock. Its supplied
with three uniquely coded keys.
KRYPTONITE NEW YORK

FAHGETTABOUDIT MINI
79.99

Portable cutter test: 2 minutes 40 seconds
At nearly 2kg theres a lot of metal in this

small U-Lock, which explains why the
cutting test took so long. The drawback
is the size. There was no way that we
could get a frame and two wheels into this
and have enough room for locking it to
anything other than a 9cm diameter pole.
If youre locking to most standard bike
racks found in towns then itll work
(and fill the lock), but if youre looking
to lock to anything bigger or youre
running a fat tyre bike, youll need the
longer chain version (110).
GEAR
GUIDE
KRYPTONITE
MESSENGER
MINI
WE SAY
Good value, and the
second shackle frees up
space for the main lock,
but only average
toughness
44.99
A little something extra

170x95mm main + 95x86mm rear wheel
Bolt crop test 58 seconds Portable cutter
test 1 minute 36 seconds Picked Passed
Hammer Passed
A U-Lock with an extra U on it is a

simple idea (one which weve done before
with two U-Locks) but it works quite well.
Simply open the lock and slide the extra U
off, stick it through the rear wheel, slide
the main U through it, stick in your front
wheel, and lock it all up. If youre locking
to larger diameter
objects the space
freed up by the rear
HIGHS
wheel being on its
Two locks for the
own U shackle is a
price of one
bonus. Wed love
LOWS
to see a New YorkWed like to see a
level version of
tougher version
this though.
SQUIRE MAKO CN8/900
KRYPTONITE MESSENGER
64.99
CHAIN
ONGUARD MASTIF
Weight 1693g Length 900mm

Bolt crop test 19 seconds Portable cutter
test 36 seconds Picked 3 minutes-plus
Hammer Passed

Bolt crop test Passed Portable cutter
test 28 seconds Picked 3 minutes
Hammer Passed

Bolt crop test Passed Portable cutter
test 2 mins 20 seconds Picked Passed
Hammer Passed
Despite using similar lock internals to

the Hammerhead 230 it took us longer to
pick, though this may be down to our
inexpert lock-picking skills. We did spot a
weakness in the design, which meant the
croppers did their work with Usain Boltlike speed. It was better when it came to
standing up to the cutter, and the length is
about perfect for securing a couple of
bikes. You can minimise slack by wrapping
it around the bikes and street furniture,
reducing potential leverage. This would
make a great secondary line of defence
combined with a small U-lock.
Despite the hefty weight of the 3t

manganese steel chain, the weak spot
is the somewhat lacking padlock. Taking
this chain and adding a good quality
padlock would make a great product, but
Kryptonite has specified a padlock that
simply didnt stand up to a cutter very well.
In addition to that, we were able to pick it
with a little practice. Its a shame, as the
chain is decent and represents Kryptonites
typical quality, but any chain is only as
good as what shackles the ends together.
Two keys are supplied on a wrist band for
carrying convenience.
After our hammer success with the

OnGuard 8002 we tried the same with the
Mastif, as its a very similar construction...
We failed, miserably. It wouldnt crop or
pick, and it stood up to the cutter almost
as well as the Abus chain. We even had a
go at levering the links, because weve
never tried levering an OnGuard chain.
That didnt work either. So aside from
cutting just a little quicker than the Abus
padlock, there is little to choose between
them aside from the frame protection and
weather sealing, where the much more
expensive Abus just edges it out.
39.98
64.99
ALL-IN-ONE MOUNT FOR

GARMIN EDGE AND ACTION CAMERAS
Holds a Garmin computer on top and a compatible action
camera or bike light underneath
Eliminates camera shake with full aluminium construction
Carbon handlebar friendly - suits 31.8mm
Lifetime Guarantee
From 44.99
GEAR
GUIDE
WE SAY
Very tough and
portable bike security
if youre happy carrying
around 2.5kg of
metalwork
HIPLOK
GOLD
HIGHLY
COMMENDED
84.99
Wearable security option

Bolt crop test Passed Portable cutter test
2 mins 30 seconds Picked Passed
Hammer Passed
Wearing a big-link hardened steel chain

around your pelvis when riding a bike is
something that you have to make your
own mind up about, but the chain will
accommodate waists from 24in up to 44in.
Were not getting into health and safety
issues concerning that, but testing the
security of it when used as a lock. And boy
does it do well. It was only bettered in the
test by the excellent Abus Granit Power, it
weighs just a little over 2.5kg, and is a very
usable length. Three keys are supplied,
which are coded and
can be replaced once
youve registered at
HIGHS
Hiploks website. As
Super-tough and
a chain light enough
highly portable
to carry and with an
LOWS
almost perfect
Wearable chains
length, there isnt
arent for everybody
much better.
ABUS GRANIT POWER XS

119.99

Bolt crop test Passed Portable cutter test
2 mins 40 seconds Picked Passed
Hammer Passed
At nearly 3.5kg this is a monster, but one

that stood up the best in all of our tests.
The padlock is engineered as well as the
chain, there is no weakest link with this
setup which is what makes it perform as
a system rather than a chain and padlock.
The protective fabric sleeve and siliconecoated lock stop your frame being
scratched. Yes, its heavy and long, but its
performance is hard to beat. Its supplied
with two keys, one with an LED light. If
youre locking to large objects, more than
one bike at once, and want to wrap through
the wheels and frame, this is the answer.
VERDICT
Our lock test is one of the harshest
around. We shape our own bolt
cropper blades, use the best cutting
discs and learn how to pick locks.
We do what any high-end bike
thief would do. We set a limit of five
minutes to crack a lock, and weve
never failed. With that in mind,
anything that scores over three can
be seen as a good lock.
Its no surprise to see the usual
suspects topping the honours list,
but Kryptonite and Abus have been
joined by Hiplok, which has produced
the excellent mini DC and wearable
if heavy Gold, and we were also
impressed by OnGuards Mastif chain.
But its Germanys Abus that takes
both top spots. Its 3.5kg Granit
Power XS chain takes portability
to its limit, but it is very tough. The
ultimate accolade, though, goes
to the Granit X Plus 540 U-lock,
belying its middleweight status with
a heavyweight performance. A good
size, superb design and very strong.
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MASTER HEART RATE TRAINING ZONES

Eddie Fletcher, sports scientist and technical advisor with Wattbike,
gives us the lowdown on how to get the most out of training zones...
HAVE A HEART
Short of undergoing a labcondition test, one way

to get a feel for your maximum
cycling heart rate which is key
to training zone work is to
assume youre an average and
use age-predicted maximum
heart rates (MHR). A number
of methods can help with this
including MHR = 220 minus your
age, or 210 minus (0.65 x age) or
217 minus (0.85 x age).
ITS GOOD TO TALK
Just remember that these

maximum heart rate
formulas are far from scientific
and can be out by as much as +/20 beats per minute, so use
them only as a starting point.
Alternatively use the talk test: in
this instance when youre
struggling to talk due to physical
exertion, assume that you are at
85 per cent of max and work out
your max from there.
ZONE IN
You can now begin to work

in the HR training zones
devised by British Cycling. These
range from recovery less
than 60 per cent of MHR,
through zones to establish
endurance and improve efficiency
(60-75 per cent MHR) up to
intensive (57-100 per cent).
The latter will be short efforts,
while endurance rides will tend
to be longer.
TARGET PRACTICE
A full, detailed breakdown
of training zones can be
found on the Wattbike website
at http://tinyurl.com/paheqzj.
What you need to do now is put
together a training schedule
that incorporates enough time
in each zone. Intensive sessions
will stress your muscles, but
they will only adapt and grow
if they are allowed time to rest
and recover.
TRAINING
TION
I
R
T
U
N
TOP FOODS FOR

FASTER RECOVERY
Your ability to recover determines how hard you can
hit each session. What you take on board can help
MILKY MILKY
Milk, chocolate
especially, will
provide a great source
of amino acids, protein
and carbohydrates.
Consuming just 500ml
post training has
been shown to boost
recovery and reduce
DOMS (Delayed Onset
Muscle Soreness that
achiness you get after a
hard session), improve
glycogen re-synthesis
and has been proven
to be better in
rehydration postexercise than water.
CHERRY ON TOP
Drinking at least
30ml of cherry
juice twice a day for four
days prior to training/
race and four days

after, including race day,
has been proven to
maintain muscle force
and improve recovery.
Most of all it has high
levels of melatonin,
which aid in sleep
quality and improve
your efficiency.
PLANT THE SEED
Omega-3 fats
found in chia
seeds/flax seeds are
extremely beneficial in
aiding in recovery and
reducing inflammation.
Add to milk and blend
to get the beneficial
effects of both. In
addition, they may
also help to lower
cholesterol and support
heart health.
INSTANT
EXPERT
Clean the bar of
any grit and dry it
thoroughly before
getting out the
new tape
SPICE THINGS UP
Turmeric is the
most-studied
spice in the western
world and contains
curcumin. Taking
200mg two days
pre- and one day postevent helps to reduce
inflammation and
muscle damage,
leading to faster
muscle repair.
GO BANANAS
There is no
denying that the
fabled banana really is a
leader. Its high in carbs
(especially the riper
they are) and potassium
(lost in sweat during
exercise), so a banana
smoothie is perfect to
aid recovery.
EDGE
L
W
O
KN
Turn to tumeric
for a natural
recovery boost
TAPE
YOUR BARS
ROBERT WEEKES, EX-SRAM
AND NOW CYCLE REPUBLICS
LEAD SPANNER MAN SHEDS
LIGHT ON REPLACING YOUR
BAR TAPE
Getty
STRIP THE BAR BARE
When you strip off your old

handlebar tape be sure to remove all
the old glue using a dish cleaner, but
nothing too abrasive. It needs to be
strong enough to remove the gunk
Getty
FIX A BROKEN
SEAT CLAMP
When saddle and bike
part company you are
going to want to ride
home somehow...
CHECK IT OUT
Riccardo Guasco
without scratching the metal or carbon.

With your bar naked, you can then
secure your cables with electrical tape
ensuring that the cables dont cross
under the tape and are secured into
any bar recesses. Clean the bar of
any grit and make sure you dry it
thoroughly before getting out the
new tape.
BEGIN AT THE BAR END
Remove the adhesive cover strip

(around 40mm) and put the start of
the tape (Robert recommends using
Boardman Black Gel Bar Tape, 9.99)
inside the bar end. This will help to
secure the tape when the plug is inserted.
Although there isnt a rule for the
direction in which to wrap, turning
the tape inwards at the top of the
rotation (looking at it from a rider/cockpit
point of view) will mean that if you
pull on the bar it will effectively tighten
the tape.
AIM TO CHEAT
When it comes to wrapping STI

(Shimano Total Integration) levers your
bar tape will come with some cheat
strips that will help you. Peel back
the rubber housings to uncover the
STI levers and place the cheat strip over
the clamps. Avoid covering the
indentation of the clamp housing as
this will result in some uncomfortable
and unsightly lumps.
FIND THE FINISH
When you come to your last

revolution cut into the bar tape,
tapering the last one all the way
back to the adhesive. This will allow
the electrical tape to cover the entire
final wrap of the bar tape, which will
leave the bar looking much neater as
well as forming a stronger bond.
Two or three revolutions of the
electrical tape will be enough to
finish the job.
When your saddle starts to go

south the most likely cause is a
seat clamp thats slipping rather than
one thats broken. Get off and have a
look under the saddle, if the clamp has
moved but isnt visibly damaged
simply adjust it back into your usual
position and tighten all the bolts back
up with your multitool. Unless youve
got particularly fragile carbon seat
rails, we suggest you really, really
tighten them this time.
KEEP IT ZIPPED
If you have broken your seat

clamp, youve got yourself a
problem. Luckily, if you keep a
selection of zip ties in your saddlepack
and we have suggested that you do
on several occasions you can secure
the saddle to the post with these.
Youll need to take care as the saddle
wont be especially secure but its
better than sitting on a 27.2mm wide
tube of aluminium or carbon fibre
TOTAL REMOVAL
Got no zip ties? In that case
youre in for a pretty
uncomfortable ride home (or to the
nearest bike shop if youve got one on
your route). Multiple Grand Tour
winner Alberto Contador is known to
train riding out of the saddle for
periods of up to 20 minutes to perfect
his climbing technique, so heres your
chance to get some pro-level training
in. We suggest taking the seatpost out
of the seat-tube completely in this
situation, rather than riding home with
a spike for a saddle.
TRAINING
Release your inner

gladiator Gluteus
Maximus Meridius...
LEDGE
W
O
N
K
BUILD GREAT GLUTES

Specialist fitness trainer Matt Roots (mattroots.com) shares his advice on
developing glute strength, in and out of the saddle, to boost your power
Glutes bridges and other

activation exercises are
fantastic for getting your gluteus
maximus muscles to engage
more effectively. Researchers
from the Waikato Institute of
Technology, New Zealand found
that cyclists who did specific
drills to build glute strength
improved their 1km power by
8.7 per cent. There are drills
riders can do to target the power
muscles such as gym-based
moves like deadlifts, squats,
multi-plane lunges, plus glute
boosters you should do daily,
especially before a ride.
BUILD BRIDGES
To perform glutes bridges

lie on your back with your
legs bent and your feet flat on
the floor. Push your hips up as
high as possible, squeezing your
bum cheeks together as much
as you can at the top. Slowly
control back down to the floor
and repeat for sets of 10-15.
To advance this do barbell hip
thrusts, but youll need access to
free weights (barbell). Assume
the same positioning and
movement as the glutes
bridges, only this time youre
adding a barbell across the hips
for added resistance.
GO PLYO
Plyometric training
involves explosive, often
jumping-based movements.
These include box jumps squat
with arms extended forward and
your rear end pushed back, then
swing your arms for momentum
and jump off the ground onto a
step or stable box. For ice
skaters, stand on one leg then
hop from side to side, switching
legs as if you were hopping over
a puddle or speed skating (swing
your arms, touching the opposite
arm to the opposite standing
leg). These are great ways to
increase strength and power.
SINGLE LIFE
One-legged movements
are great for mobility
and restoring muscle balance.
Single-leg deadlifts are fantastic
for targeting glutes and
hamstrings. Hold a dumbbell in
each hand, down in front of your
upper thighs with arms straight.
Lower the dumbbells to the floor
while raising the left leg behind
you. Keep your hip and knee
(lifted leg) extended. Once you
feel a stretch return to the start
position, switch legs and repeat.
Single legwork offers the chance
to highlight imbalances and, as a
result, work on correcting them.
Steve Behr
POWER UP
R
E
U
Q
N
CO
AL
S
L
I
A
R
T
Y
R
U
B
R
E
T
THE CAN
IV
T
S
E
F
G
N
I
L
C
Y
C
T
KEN OUR TERRAIN AND DISTANCE
CHOOSE Y
cling
bhf.org.uk/kentcy
British Heart Foundation, registered charity

in England and Wales (225971) and in Scotland (SC039426)
13 September 2015
Seb Rogers
Russell Burton
TRAINING
NG
TRAINI
GO THE DISTANCE
On 7 May 2015, Charlie

Mitchell and Dominic
Irvine set a new tandem
record from Lands End to
John OGroats, covering the
842.6 miles in 45 hours, 11
minutes and 2 seconds,
beating the previous record
by over five hours. The
traditional route to breaking
long distance place-toplace records (see the full
list at www.rra.org.uk) is
racing progressively longer
time trials. Dominic had a
background of mediocre
performances in triathlons
and ultra-distance cycling.
Charlie was faster but hadnt
raced further than 50 miles.
BECOME A TEAM PLAYER

challenge for
2 The
Dominic was going
faster, the challenge for

Charlie was getting fitter. The
challenge for both was
becoming a team on the bike.

Training was divided into
sessions on the turbo,
intervals on the tandem and
longer rides working on
becoming an effective unit.
High intensity work
promoted neuro-muscular
activation, tempo sessions
targeted speed and longer
rides built up endurance and
technique. The longest single
training ride covered more
than 350 miles.
BE MENTALLY TOUGH
of the hardest
3 Some
rides were overnight in
winter temperatures. These

were important to develop
mental toughness and
physical fitness. Dealing with
problems, from broken
chainsets to seven punctures
in one ride, provided the
resilience to cope on the
record-breaking ride. During
longer, slower rides they
British Olympic Association

triathlete trainer Nick
Grantham explains how
TRAIN ON PROTEIN
Professor Simon Jobson explains what it takes to train for

a place in the long-distance record books
SET YOUR GOALS
GET LEANER
WITHOUT
LOSING POWER
experimented with kit and

food to find the best
combinations for the task.
MANAGE YOUR TIME
You might not be

prepared to get up at
5am every day to train like
Charlie and Dominic did but
you can achieve significant
improvements by doing a
mix of high intensity training
and longer, slower rides.
Measure your progress so
you can see if what youre
doing is working and ride in
conditions similar to those
youll experience in the
events youve entered.
Dominic and Charlie have
shown that ordinary
people can do extraordinary
things with hard work
and dedication.
Simon Jobson is a co-editor of
Performance Cycling: The
Science of Success
Protein synthesis is important for

maintaining lean muscle mass, but
research shows that you only need 20g
of protein post exercise to get an
anabolic response (one that will build
muscle mass). A balanced approach to
your diet is crucial dont restrict
single macronutrients (carbohydrate,
protein, fat) especially at breakfast
when protein is vital to hunger satiety
and develop lean muscle. A glass of
milk or a whey protein shake straight
after a session in the saddle is a must.
GIVE ME STRENGTH
Many endurance cyclists shy away
from strength training in the misheld
belief they will become big and bulky.
In the absence of any meaningful
strength training riders may get lighter
but are unable to put the hammer
down and push out big numbers. Select
simple exercises that involve key
muscle groups for cycling - squat,
deadlift and Romanian deadlift. Keep
the repetitions low [3-5] and the sets
between 3-5, with a heavy load that
you should be able to lift under control.
ENJOY THE INTERVALS

Include a couple of high intensity
interval sessions into your weekly
routine to optimise fat loss through
greater calorie burn without
dropping any lean muscle. Rest well
too. Sleep is crucial to protein
re-synthesis so look to improve your
sleep quality with relaxation aids, less
exposure to gadgets and bright light
and getting your bedroom to the
18C/65F optimal temperature.
Russell Burton
TRAINING
DEALING WITH
OSTEOPOROSIS
What you should know
about the condition
NG
TRAINI
WHAT IS IT?
USE
YOUR
TURBO
ALL
YEAR
Kinetics Bruce Fina explains that static trainers are not
just for winter. Heres why you should keep yours out
Osteoporosis refers to a loss of bone

density. Bone is a living tissue, with
cells that continually form, mould and
reabsorb bone. Over the age of 35, the
rate of reabsorption starts to exceed
the rate of formation and bones
gradually get weaker. A milder bone
loss is known as osteopenia. Both
conditions are usually asymptomatic,
but can increase the risk of fractures.
OSTEOPOROSIS AND CYCLING

GOING DEEP
Doing efforts for

fitness is like riding
in a lab using the turbo
trainer. Many articles on
interval training tell you to
find a nice flat road with no
traffic lights or stop signs,
but just where exactly are
these roads? On a turbo you
dont have to focus on
anything else but hitting
the numbers. It will also
allow you to do a fitness
test at home to track your
progress. To do an FTP
(Functional Threshold
Power) test outside is
virtually impossible.
MAKING TIME
Finding time to get

the training hours in
isnt easy when you have a
job and family to occupy
you, so a couple of indoor
rides after the kids have
gone to bed is definitely
an appealing option. I dont

go outside unless I have at
least a two-hour window,
plus with more people
training to power, and even
if you dont have a power
meter the software is
provided in our trainers,
its possible to be so much
more efficient when on
the turbo.
RACE PREP
Using the turbo can

give you a controlled
environment to warm up
for races or time trials,
and with a more advanced
trainer you can either use
the programmed warm-ups
or add some of your own.
When youre warming up on
the road you have to be
careful about where you go
as you need to get back for
your start time, and there
is the added danger of
getting a puncture before
the race even starts. At

Cannondale-Garmin, the
team also uses our trainers
to warm down after races,
especially if they finish at
the top of a mountain.
ALL-WEATHER TRAINING
Lets face it, the British

summer is what it is,
and I think that bad weather
and the popularity of time
trials in the UK has
contributed to our yearround sales here. As clothing
has got better more people
can get out in inclement
weather, but many just
dont want to, so getting
on the turbo trainer means
that youve still had a
workout and been able to
keep your fitness levels
up. People are seeing
professional riders use
turbos more and more
these days, and theres a
reason for that.
Chris Boardman gave up professional

cycling after being diagnosed with
osteoporosis in his 30s. A number of
studies have shown that osteoporosis
and osteopenia may be associated with
cycling. Most of these studies have
looked at elite level cyclists, a group
who mostly train on their bikes and
rarely take part in weight-bearing
exercise. Runners tend to have higher
bone densities than cyclists. In athletes
who combine both sports, this positive
effect of running overrides the negative
of cycling. A Body Mass Index less than
19 also increases fracture risk.
PREVENTION
Stop smoking and keep alcohol to
recommended limits. Get enough
calcium in the diet (mainly through
dairy food) and vitamin D (in oily
fish and fortified foods such as
margarine and breakfast cereals).
Weight bearing exercise is essential;
the National Osteoporosis Foundation
recommends brisk walking or running
for 30 minutes a day. Try to do some
muscle strengthening exercises such
as weights, press-ups or pilates twothree times a week.
Andy Ward, GP and cyclist
@awkwardcyclist
WWW.MERIDA.COM
Lifetime warranty on all
frames, including racing.
* Applies to frames manufactured since 2011
www.facebook.com/meridauk
SCULTURA range from 599.99 to 1,600 (model shown 1,600)
In association with
TRAINING
www.wattbike.com
BEGINNERS TIP
KNOW YOUR
HEART RATE
AND POWER
TRAINING ZONES
AND STICK
TO THEM.
Without the
numbers, getting
THE
ASK R
T
EXPE
FOLLOWING A CRASH IM RETURNING TO

TRAINING AFTER A FEW WEEKS OFF THE
BIKE. WHAT SESSIONS WOULD YOU SUGGEST
TO TRY TO REGAIN LOST FITNESS QUICKLY?
EDDIE FLETCHER, WATTBIKES LEAD
SPORTS SCIENTIST, SAYS:
Following injury or illness, its important to
start back carefully. Too often riders try to
start where they left off or ramp up training
far too soon. The body needs time to heal the
physical injury and adapt to training again.
This means limiting both the duration and
intensity of training workouts for the first
two to four weeks. Concentrate on workouts
that progressively use Recovery to Zone 2
heart rate and power training zones for a
maximum of 60 minutes, three times per
week. This will rapidly build base endurance
and help the bodys recovery. Power should
be kept at no more than 45-55 per cent of
maximum minute power or 65-75 per cent
of functional threshold power and 65-75 per
cent of maximum heart rate.
Theres no reason why a road ride
shouldnt be included but limit the duration
to 90 minutes and be very careful about
keeping the intensity low. A flat road course
would be my preference.
Pay particular attention to your warm up
and cool down. The warm up will prepare the
body for the main part of the workout and
cool down will help with the recovery
process. Start at the bottom of the training
zones, as heart rate drops for the same
effort, increase the duration or power/heart
rate intensity to match the improved fitness.
Two to four weeks of this type of gentle

training will reap immense benefits when
moving back to a full training plan.
Suggested workouts
Workout 1
5mins easy warm up, 30mins (or 2x 5mins,
with 4mins rest between intervals) at
Recovery (less than 60% MHR/45% FTP
Zone 1 (60-65% MHR/45-60% FTP) at
90rpm, 5mins cool down.
Add 5mins per week for each for the next
three weeks; increase the intensity into Zone
1-Zone 2.
Workout 2
10mins easy warm up, 2x10mins with
2.5mins rest between intervals at Zone
1-Zone 2 (65-75% MHR/60-75% FTP) at
90-95rpm, 10mins cool down.
Add 2.5mins to each for the next three
weeks; increase the intensity to Zone 2.
Workout 3
5mins warm up, 45mins (or 3x15mins, with
4mins rest between intervals) at RecoveryZone 1 at 90rpm, 5mins cool down.
Add 5mins to each for the next three
weeks; increase the intensity into Zone
1-Zone 2.
After week four, start to build into your
normal training plan.
through the
recovery phase is
trial and error.
Knowing them
avoids mistakes
that lead to overtraining, injury
and illness.
DO ONE THING
THIS MONTH...
KEEP YOUR HEART RATE IN THE
RIGHT ZONE
Managing the physiological effort is
the key to helping the body recover
fully and to be prepared for the uplift
in training intensity later on.
It will be very tempting to increase
both duration and intensity from
a perception that its easy and
boring. If youre asking if it can
really be doing any good, the simple
answer is yes. Treat the body with a
little tender loving care and it will
respond brilliantly in return.
Failing to recover and repair the
body fully may lead to further injury
and/or early build up of unnecessary
fatigue and put back recovery
significantly. Be patient, listen to
your body and ignore any outside
influences to do longer duration,
higher intensity riding until youve
completed a full recovery phase.
There is always plenty of time to get
back to more serious training once
youve fully rehabilitated.
For more information on finding
your heart rate zones, go to
www.britishcycling.org.uk
ASK OUR
EXPERT
Need training
advice? Send
your questions
to: cyclingplus
@immediate.
co.uk
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ES
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KI
NT
BI
Y
TH
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THE ROAD LESS

TRAVELLED
GTs new Grade aims at opening up unpaved roads to the
masses, but could it cope with 24 hours of Scottish Highland
bothy biking? We challenged Ric McLaughlin to find out.
WORDS RIC MCLAUGHLIN | PHOTOGRAPHY ANDY MCCANDLISH
ES
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AD
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What is a
bothy?!
A bothy is a kind of
Scottish mountain hut.
Dotted across the wild
plains and heather-clad
hillsides of the north,

they originally offered
shelter for farm labourers
caught out by the fastshifting weather but are
now more commonly
used as over-night stopoffs by outdoor crusaders.
mountainbothies.org.uk
If the B52s had

shot their Love
Shack video in
the Highlands, it
would have
looked like this
FOR ONE OF those brief seconds that

somehow feels like an eternity, no one
says anything. Andy was the first in the
door and as a result is the closest to the
axe. After the axe I can only see a hardback
copy of Tolstoys War And Peace and a tin
of haggis, each of which may just cut it as a
makeshift (if somewhat unlikely) weapon.
As it turns out, the two bearded men
bedecked head to toe in khaki, are actually
two pretty nice guys whove got the National
Express up to the Scottish Highlands from
Bristol and arent a physical threat after all.
Bothy etiquette (see box on p 168) is an
odd thing. Were offered a share of the
bounteous haggis and the fire the pair have
built is warming but theres still light, the
rains off and a nights worth of small talk
can still be avoided by saddling back up and
rolling to the next bothy.
Are you on a racer or something? Bloke
Number One asks me, confused.
I am, yeah, sort of..., I mumble
swerving the opportunity to try to describe
the GT Grade parked outside. In fact, GT
doesnt fully know how to describe it having
plumped for the slightly dry Enduroad
banner on its website.
If someone showed you a Grade leant up
outside a cafe on a bank holiday Monday it
could, and would, pass as just a road bike.
Look a little deeper than the matte carbon
finish and famous triple triangle frame
design, however, and a bike thats not quite
like the rest of them begins to take shape.
Its burlier here, brawnier there and in short
has been described to tackle the outdoor
hinterland between road and cross.
We thank the lads for their kind offer of
tinned haggis and co-habitation and make a
move. No names were exchanged. The rain
Some of the
graffiti that was
safe for us to
show. Its not
exactly Banksy,
is it?
China mugs
havent made it
to the Highlands
yet. The locals
still drink from
Iron Age vessels
that pelted the A9 on our way north to

Aviemore has now abated and the stunning
Lochan Uaine opens up in front of us. Its
weird, bright green colour was (apparently)
caused by pixies washing their clothes in it,
or the trees along the loch floor...
Photographer Andy knows another bothy
10 miles or so away, and with the light just
starting to fade and more rain forecast we
start tapping out a decent pace.
FOREST PARK AND RIDE

The forest roads around Glenmore Forest
Park are wide and largely smooth thanks to
a hardpack, sandy surface. The handlebar
that I initially felt difficult to warm to comes
Andy was the first in the door

and as a result is the closest
to the axe. After the axe I can
only see a hardback copy of
Tolstoys War And Peace and
a tin of haggis
into its own and allows

me to open up my
shoulders and find a
naturally comfortable
perch on the drops.
However, its almost
too polished a display
as I nearly stack it on a fast section strewn
with larger rounded rocks. On his 29inwheeled mountain bike, Andy hasnt even
considered braking and I in turn am guilty of
riding the bike in front of me a bit. The
chunkier, wetter surroundings dont much
care for the slick tyres and I bobble off
towards the undergrowth, my impending
doom marked only by swearing and the loud
squeal of wet disc brakes doing their best. I
manage to haul the Grade back into line,
averting one of the slowest, most pathetic
topple-offs of this century in the process.
Our route bisects the Lairig Ghru, a
famous 20-mile trail cutting straight
through the heart of the Cairngorms. The
woods close in around us only to re-open
again sporadically to offer glimpses of the
steep, copper-coloured hillsides that now
surround us. The distant noise of the odd bit
of traffic has disappeared and any time we
stop to check the map the wind rush gives
way to an almost eerie quiet.
Now and again the trail breaks from its
smooth undulations into lumpier rock
sections and I get used to lopping the speed
in half in order to pick my way through
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Basildon Braintree Canterbury Chelmsford Greenwich Leigh Maidstone Norwich Orpington Romford Tonbridge Watford
ES
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GTs Grade
makes short
work of gravel,
but the terrain
has some tricks
up its sleeve
Drop bars are

rare in the
woods, but the
GTs flared bar
helps its offroad handling
them more accurately. Our speed is nowhere

near that which could be achieved on some
beautiful Majorcan black top but were
clipping on. With a couple more miles to
go I notice that Im tending to leave the
rear derailleur lopping away at the 30T cog
and focus my shifting between the front
two rings. It makes it easier to deal with
the forest roads rises and falls and punchy
short climbs.
This is one of my favourite wee
singletrack sections anywhere, Andy calls
over his shoulder before disappearing from
sight within seconds. This is now mountain
bike territory and the GT is swamped. Wet
roots, jagged rocks and a steeper gradient
result in initial attempts at lines, then near
crashes as the front end washes out, and a
feeling of frustration. I get off and walk.
My shoes are filled with a combination of
grit and water, for the first time on the ride
Im feeling cold and given its gone 10pm,
the light is beginning to drop as well. Ive
never spent a night in a bothy but at this
moment anywhere even marginally drier
and warmer than this sounds like heaven.
OUT OF AFFRIC-A
The plot of the film, Dog Soldiers, sees a
group of British Army Special Forces stuck in
a Scottish farmhouse as a pack of ravenous
8ft-tall werewolves attempt to make
ribbons of them. It was set in Glen Affric, not
a million miles from here and with night
My shoes are filled with a

combination of grit and water,
for the first time on the ride
Im feeling cold and given
its gone 10pm the light is
beginning to drop as well
dinner before availing ourselves of some

beers (weight saving is key) and a few pulls
of whisky, seeing as its Scotland, and if
someone were to find you in a bothy after
midnight and not drinking whisky, there
may well be trouble.
Sneaking out for a late night pee involves
taking your life in your hands as it turns out
our head torches are the only source of light
anywhere, and our faces quickly begin to feel
like a dartboard for midges and God alone
knows what else.
drawing in, it somehow makes Andys

attempts to wedge the bothy door shut with
a broken brush shaft all the more rubbish.
There may be a distinct lack of man-sized
The bothy is unusual given that its
German Shepherds prowling around,
constructed entirely from wood. Indeed, a
but thats not to say that we dont have
stove recess is boarded up as inviting cold/
visitors in the night. Mice pelt through the
wet/lazy backpackers to stay in a bothy
bothy, no doubt hunting for a nibble on the
made entirely from potential stove fuel is
remnants of Andys meatballs. The bothy
asking for trouble. Its dry though, and once
is warmer than I anticipated too, largely
changed into different kit my world feels
thanks to my sleeping bag being rated down
like an altogether better place.
to minus-10 degrees and my comfy Rab
The interior is covered in carved and inked
graffiti ranging from the predictably crude
to the odd. Were not quite sure who The
Cheese String Lad was/is but we certainly
appreciated his efforts. Theres a large bunk
bed frame in one corner and a bench in
another. Spookily, a Native American-style
dream catcher fashioned from wool, pine
branches and cones hangs in the centre of
the room, slowly rotating back and forth on
some unseen draft.
We light both of our
small camp stoves and
consume a surprisingly
Even the Grade
cant make it
tasty boil-in-the-bag
MICE AGE
over every
surface. Luckily
its not that
heavy
Were committed to finding the right bike for you.

Which is why when you buy a new bike from us, if its
not the one for you, you can change it within thirty days.
No questions asked.
Welcome to the Right Bike Guarantee.
evanscycles.com/right-bike-guarantee
T&Cs apply
AD
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UR
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Out of the
saddle and the
Grades 52T pro
compacts large
chainring comes
into its own
...while its 32T

sprocket means
that even steep
hills prove no
obstacle to its
progress
Ric enjoys a
boil-in-the-bag
meal, or a large
hot toddy. For
medicinal
purposes only
GT GRADE 2000
SPECIFICATION
HIGHS
Weight 9.2kg
(XL/58cm) Frame
Carbon Fork
Carbon Gears
Shimano 105,
52/36, 11-32
Brakes Shimano
R685 hydraulic
discs Wheels Stans
No Tubes Grail
Finishing kit GT
stem and bar,
carbon seatpost,
Fizik saddle, 28mm
Continental Gran
Sport Race tyres
Unique, smooth,
fast, capable and
extremely versatile
LOWS
Some may not like its
individual looks
BUY IF
You want a genrebusting bike thats an
absolute blast to ride
down jacket. Half way through the night

Andy nudges me awake and before
I can utter anything he puts his finger
to his lips before turning to the sound of
another persons breathing coming from
somewhere deep within the dark...
Thankfully, this was a dream, perhaps
something to do with the dream catcher (or
maybe the whisky), but I wake up petrified.
This general sense of terror rockets when I
realise that Ive rolled right to the very edge
of the over head-height top bunk. A fall from
here, arms safely tucked within my sleeping
bag, would be yet another supremely
pathetic way to drastically injure myself.
(NOT) WOLF HALL

The morning arrives, werewolf-free. Coffee
and porridge are consumed before Andy
gets to work plotting our way back to the
van and I load the Grade back up. Free of the
food and drink, its impressive how well the
various Alpkit bags tuck on to the bike. If the
weather was better and you werent with a
kit-laden photographer, you could almost
A couple of river crossings

later, we roll out a short
section of fire road and the
constant vibrations my body
has been absorbing for the last
two days are suddenly gone
halve the amount of baggage needed for a
trip like this.
A couple of river crossings later, we roll
out a short section of fire road and the
constant vibrations my body has been
absorbing for the last two days are suddenly
gone. The marble-smooth, tourist-friendly
tarmac feels incredible. Despite having
been virtually submerged in grit, gravel and
moisture its impressive how fresh the GT
feels too. The Shimano 105 drivetrain clicks
through its range happily and precisely and
the brakes clear their throat slightly before
returning to their predictable best.
We loop around the loch and as the
porridge kicks in the world comes into focus
again. In the Highlands of Scotland there are

many different varieties of rain and the one
that we find ourselves in this morning is of
the finer and warmer blend, so doesnt
bother us too much. The occasional distant
shotgun pop punctuates the air and despite
being on the main road to Aviemore, pretty
much bang in the middle of the morning
rush hour, we only see a couple of cars.
A rotund pigeon chases three squabbling
sparrows away from a birdhouse thats
almost certainly much too small for it.
Festooned in a combination of bird and
squirrel droppings, the wooden balcony
directly beside our wobbly table in the cafe
is pretty horrible. As are the microwaveable
pies complete with microwaveable chips
weve just had set in front of us as a token
celebratory breakfast.
So, the GT has made the grade; its a road
bike that can indeed be ridden along just
about any dotted line an OS map can muster,
and has survived the night. Bothy biking has
proved to be an incredible way to experience
the wilds of the Scottish Highlands at their
best. Proper adventures simply dont get
much cheaper and bike rides dont get much
more enthralling.
Bothy
etiquette
and you could well

wish you were
somewhere else. Plan
a back-up bothy.
Its free but there are

some unspoken rules
2. CLEAN UP AFTER
1. HAVE A BACK-UP
Of course, bothies
offer a fantastic
opportunity to meet
interesting, new
people and tend to be
uninhabited but
bump into a raucous
group of backpackers
Theres usually a
brush about to help
clean out a bothy
after youve stayed
a night. Take your
rubbish with you and
give it a quick sweep.
Its not really asking
very much for free
accommodation,
is it?!
3. DRY BAGS ARE

INVALUABLE
A good dry bag will
cost a couple of quid
and allow you to go
to bed in dry pants. It
doesnt sound like
much but trust us,
youd pay 10 times as
much just before you
ping a pair of sodden
cycling shorts across
the room, ready for
the morning.
4. HEAD TORCHES
Fully charged head
torch batteries can be

the difference
between standing in
human excrement
and not standing in
human excrement,
need we say more?
5. BE PREPARED FOR
COMPANY
If you do get visitors,
be welcoming and
offer them some food
or a hot drink. You
are in a wild
and lonely place,
after all...
EPIC RIDES
Are you tough

enough?
If watching the Tour has given you the desire to
extend your endurance ambitions beyond the
Sunday morning 50-miler, check out our bucket
list of some of the toughest, most demanding or
simply weirdest road rides you can tick off...
WORDS ROB KEMP
10 TOUGHEST CYCLING CHALLENGES
Giro dItalia, Italy
Image: Thomson Bike Tours
or the 23 days of
the Giro with its
harder-than-France
climbs that would leave a
mountain goat giddy, seven
heart-bursting sprint stages
and TTs among the citadels
riders clock up almost
3500km of blood-draining,
pedalling purgatory. The
beauty is that, as with the
Tour, us mere mortals can
take on a stage. Definitely
not for the reluctant
climber, it strikes fear into

even the elite. It used to
be known as the riders tour
- but its recently become
so, so hard, says Mark
Cavendish, a rider whos left
his mark literally if you
count layers of epidermis
upon this increasingly
extreme endurance race.
This years Giro included
an epic stage across the
unfinished roads of the
2178m Colle delle Finestre,
a stage won by the Italian

and eventual runner-up
Fabio Aru. And with the
establishment of the La
Marmotta Sestriere Gran
Fondo on August 2 you can
test yourself over the very
same roads, getting a taste
for cyclings early years
when all mountain roads
lacked tarmac. At least you
wont have to take your
wheel out and flip it around
to change gear.
EPIC RIDES
TransPyrenees Road
Race, Spain
Image: Foto Esport BCN
The weather,
as well as the
hills, can turn
against you in
the Pyrenees
TransPyrenees Road Race

Paris-Roubaix Challenge
The Paris-Roubaix Challenge

offers we mere mortals a
chance to follow in the pitted
wheel tracks of legends
Paris-Roubaix, France
full distance if you wish,

while shorter routes,
including a 140km course
that starts and finishes in
Roubaix, enable most riders
to experience a memorable
day on the cobbles.
The scene was sett for
Bradley Wiggins to bow out
in glory in Roubaix in Sky
colours this year but this
course is no respecter of
reputation and Wiggo
crossed the line in 18th spot.
Its such an unpredictable
Paris-Roubaix, he said
before the race. You must
get through all the dirt and
the cobbles to survive the
massacre. His words were
almost prophetic this year
too as many riders not
content with the often harsh
weather conditions and
treacherous terrain risked
their lives slaloming the
gates of a level crossing
seconds before a high-speed
train thundered past.
(Not recommended.)
Above Those few

hundred metres
might just as
well be a few
hundred miles
Right After a
hard day in the
saddle. Well, it is
called the Hell of
the North
Images: Geoff Waugh
or something shorter
but with its own
unique approach to
tough terrain try one of the
three routes along this
cobbled classic course. The
official race, which
concludes the Spring
Classics season in April the
week after the Tour of
Flanders, is possibly the
worlds most famous
one-day pro race. With the
nickname of The Hell of The
North the 253km course
from 50 miles north of the
French capital to Roubaix,
on the Belgian border,
features more than 50km
over bone-shaking
cobblestones or setts
maintained the way the
Romans meant them to be.
Although youll need to
be a top pro to tackle the real
thing, the Paris-Roubaix
Challenge offers we mere
mortals a chance to follow in
the pitted wheeltracks of
legends. You can take on the
ight days across the

width of Spain climbing
the steep and
unrelenting Pyrenees from
Roses on the shores of the
Mediterranean to San
Sebastin. This road version of
the well-established mountain
bike event is made more
demanding by the seasonal,
rain in Spain. Whole stages of
the 2014 TransPyr were dogged
by torrential downpours.
Thats harsh enough in any
race - but when youre
ascending the equivalent of
Mount Everest, twice, plus
another 2590m it feels like
previous life sins catching up
on you. The official TransPyr is
open to teams of two or three
riders with an average daily
ride of over 100km and about
2500m of climbing. There are
two shorter, four-stage
options from Roses to Ainsa or
Ainsa to San Sebastin.
Below The long,

lonely, windy
winding road
that is the Race
Across America
10 TOUGHEST CYCLING CHALLENGES
Race Across America

(RAAM), USA
Images Will_Cyclist (flickr)
another shot this year. The

hardest thing for me is the
climate and terrain. You ride
from the Mojave desert in
California at 40C - you never
get that temperature in the
UK, explains Pillinger.
Then you have the altitude
climb as you enter Colorado.
Wolf Creek Pass tops off
at 10,640 feet (3423m) and
its not possible to train at
anywhere near that altitude
in the UK. As you enter the
plains of Kansas you start to
worry more about tornados
and thunderstorms so we
are constantly prepping
for each state and getting
around- the-clock weather
reports sent to us. Lastly the
Appalachian Mountains on
the East side of the country
steeper, sharper and at
4023km into a race much
harder than anything Ive
faced before.
Image lupispuma.com
Cingls du Mont Ventoux
Above The
nearest most of
us will get to a
lunar landscape:
Mont Ventoux
Cingls du Mont
Ventoux, France
Race Across America (RAAM)
Images: Jaka Vinek
ver the past 35 years

the RAAM they
love an acronym
has developed into one of
the worlds most inspiring
endurance races. With a
4838km route stretching
from Oceanside, California
to Annapolis, Maryland
and a requirement for
riders to pretty much race
continuously day and night
to complete the course in
time its no surprise its also
been dubbed the worlds
most demanding road race.
Along with sleep
deprivation the ticklist of
grumbles includes mountain
climbs, wind-swept
plains, dogs, road trains
and saddle sores. British
rider, Shusanah Pillinger,
broke her collarbone three
quarters of the way in to
the RAAM in 2014 and had
to pull out, but shes gave it
Its fair to say that

the Race Across
America is quite
emotional
over of ascents or just

one for saddle-based
self-harming? Mont
Ventoux, the Giant of
Provence, is acknowledged
as one of the toughest - so
much so that its only done
once. However, there is
another way three in all
to skin this cat and each is
destined to leave you rueing
the day you ever clapped
eyes on a bike.
The most infamous,
starting at Bedoin, is a
21.5km climb featuring a
deceptively straightforward
6km before the left turn at
Les Bruns - after which
brutality kicks in for 10km
through the woods before

the final windy stretch in a
Moon-like barren setting.
For the challenge of
cycling up all three routes in
a day clocking up 4443m of
ascending over 137km in all
you also need to also take on
the climb from Malaucne
(21km, and 1570m with
much of it 10 per cent) and
then go back down to begin
again from the village of
Sault (26km, 1220m). This
last route is a narrower,
quieter one. Its purportedly
the easiest - though just as
prone to winds of 100kph
or more near the summit.
Bonne chance!
EPIC RIDES
The Race Around Ireland

(RAI), Ireland
t was nothing short of a penetrating

voyage of discovery in examining
what lies at the core of us as human
beings, exclaims Sean OHlarnain, solo
competitor in the non-stop ultra-race
around the entire Emerald isle on a 2150km
journey of discovery and depletion.
From its start at the impressive Trim
Castle in County Meath the RAI takes the
riders on a route around some of Irelands
most historic sights - Giants Causeway,
Malin Head, the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring
of Kerry, Mizen Head, the Garden County
(Wicklow) and back to Navan in County
Meath all within five days. Solo riders will
spend up to 22 hours on their bikes on a
given day, while the teams rotate as part
of a relay for 24 hours a day.
Image lupispuma.com
From its start at Trim Castle

the RAI takes the riders on
a route around some of
Irelands most historic sights
The Race Around Ireland
Image ironhorsebicycleclassic.com
The 68ookm race

that sneers at the
far-too-easy Race
Across America
and no prize either
Transamerica
Transamerica, USA
petulant upstart
likely to irk devotees
of the RAAM, the
TransAmerica race is a longer
bike-packing route for solo
ultra-racers. There are no
entry fees - nor prize money
- just the honour of completing
6812km covering 10 states
from Oregon to Virginia.
Riders must only use the
publicly available services
such as restaurants, filling
stations and bike shops as
opposed to having dedicated
support. Juliana Buhring
finished the inaugural 2014
race in 20 days and 23 hours
taking first place in the
womens category and fourth

place overall having pedalled
an average of 18 hours a day
and cycling the final 804km
non-stop to the finish.
The worst part is the
absolute exhaustion, you
suffer a lot of post-traumatic
stress, says Juliana. When I
finished the TransAm I was
wheeled onto the plane in a
wheelchair, I couldnt walk. I
was hobbling around for about
a week after because my knees
and ankles were so swollen - I
was just surviving on taking
painkillers to keep the swelling
down. It took around four
months to recover fully.
Top Just to show

that you dont need
to cross continents
to find a serious
cycling challenge
Right From a race
against a train,
the Iron Horse has
evolved to become
a classic event
IronHorse Bicycle Classic
Iron Horse Bicycle Classic,

Colorado, USA
hat began as a
race between two
cycling brothers
against a train in the 19th
century was resurrected by 36
riders in 1972 and is now, 41
years on, a classic bike event
attracting cyclists from across
the States and foreign fields
too. The three-day festival
features criteriums, circuit
races, road races, tours, BMX
races, trials, dual slaloms,
team trail rides and mountain

bike races plus the race against
an iron horse steam engine
on the Durango & Silverton
Narrow Gauge Railroad. The
train takes a shorter, flatter
route over the 80km course
but with limited speed, so it
genuinely pits man against
machine. Around 1000 racers
compete in professional
sections and 2500 amateurs in
the various events.
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Image Guy Swarbrick
Image centcolschallenge.com
EPIC RIDES
Stopped in your
tracks The
Marymoor Crawl
Not unique to one
velodrome, this
track-standing trial is
a great spectacle and a
not-to-be-missed
opportunity to ride in.
Whether its in Londons
Olympic Velo Park or its
place of origin - the
Marymoor Grand Prix
track meet in Redmond,
Washington State - the
rules are the same.
Riders set off from turn
four of a velodrome and
have to track-stand for
three to four minutes.
They arent allowed to
cross the starting line,
put a foot down, touch
a rail or other riders,
leave the track or ride
backwards. Those that
are left standing when
the start bell rings then
sprint around one lap of
the track to finish the
race, and complete a
unique test of balance,
poise, concentration
and static endurance.
Cent Cols Challenge
The original routes were

inspired by the Randonnes
Permanentes of the Club des
Cent Cols
Above One col

down, only another
99 cols and 10 more
days to go. Not
exactly a doddle
Cent Cols Challenge,

Europe
Red Bull Trans-Siberian

Extreme, Russia
ides as opposed to races

among the Cent Cols Challenges
(CCC) involve climbing 100 Cols
(passes) in 10 days, cycling approximately
200km per day with 4500-5000m of
ascending on each stage. The original
routes were inspired by the Randonnes
Permanentes of the Club des Cent Cols
today riders can experience the
challenge on some of Europes most
spectacular road climbs from the
panoramic scenery of Corsica to the
five-star difficulty-rated Bilbao to Bilbao
(Basque Country to the Picos region
and back) there are also CCC routes
across the Southern Alps, Pyrenees and
the Dolomites with new ones being
developed. Riders tour in groups of up to
30 and should have more than a passing
affinity with being able to ride hard,
back-to-back 100-200km featuring
two-long long climbs every day for
10 days.
t is six times the distance from Berlin

to Rome. Or eight times from Vienna
to Rome. Or well, basically, its
about the longest race you can do on Earth
on a bike. Starting in Moscow and then
broadly following the route of the
Trans-Siberian railway it finishes in
Vladivostok, on the Pacific Ocean.
It takes in such popular spots as Perm,
Omsk, Novosibirsk and Krasnoyarsk.
Those are the established modern cities.
After Irkutsk, youre roughing it - for
200km to be precise - along Lake Baikal
towards Ulan Ude and Chita.
The shortest stage is a mere 312km; the
longest is 1400km. Since were bandying
numbers around, the full extent of the race
is 9200km, through seven time zones.
The worlds longest race features vast
open plains and mountainous cinematic
backdrops with the July 2015 event
featuring 16 international teams, solo
riders and teams of two cycling 15 stages.
Trans-Siberian Extreme
Above Crossing
continents: from
Moscow you end up
travelling further
east than China
Right If youre
riding 9200km it
makes sense to be
as comfortable as
you can
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TEAMG
CYCLIN
PLUS
Bike fit
Getting your bike ready for a multi-stage sportive should be
an essential part of your preparation, both before and
during the race. Maxime Ruphy, of Mavics neutral service
team working at the Haute Route, explains
WORDS).'-6'(3-$8|IMAGE MANU MOLLE
So far in this series

weve talked a lot
about preparing our
bodies and minds
for the rigours of the
Haute Route, but not so much our
bikes. These races are the sternest
test of equipment so making sure
your bike is fully functioning, not
just before you head out but after
every stage, wont just ensure
you have a good race but more
importantly will help keep you safe.
It might seem obvious to say that
you should get your bike serviced
before travelling out to an overseas
sportive, but not everyone takes
the message on board. Thats the
view of Maxime Ruphy, a man
whos seen all manner of pre-race
mechanical blunders on the Haute
Route as part of Mavics neutral
service yellow squadron.
Riders will usually get their
bodies in shape for the race but it
is an equally tough week for the
bike, he says. First, get your bike
properly serviced before you pack it
away in your box. Then make sure
you pack it securely to minimise the
risk of damage in transit.
Mavic provides neutral service
to many European races and
sportives, with hundreds,
sometimes thousands, of riders
to attend to. It means that while
it will always offer help when you
need it, staff are spread very thinly,
178 | July
August
2015
2015
| CYCLING
| CYCLING
PLUS
PLUS
which means you need to be as

self-sufficient as possible. That
means travelling with essential
spares including extra cleats, tubes
and a chain. Youll almost always
find a bike shop nearby but dont
rely on it being open or stocking the
equipment you need.
Mountainous multi-stage
sportives such as the Haute Route
can eat through certain bike parts,
particularly tyres and brake pads.
Both should be replaced before
you start (with models youre
experienced with and comfortable
riding) and you should carry a spare
set of each.
Ruphy recommends using
clincher tyres, rather than tubulars.
Tubs are the choice of the pros
because of their higher resistance
to flats and lower weight. The
problem is when you do puncture,
you need a new wheel okay for
the pros when they have a team
vehicle close by, not so for you when
the nearest neutral service vehicle
might be miles away.
A spare that people often forget
to carry, says Ruphy, is a derailleur
hanger. They are fragile, and can
be easily damaged in transit, in
crashes or with a coming together of
wheels on the road. There are many
different types of hanger and while
neutral service will stock a few, it
cant stock them all. Ruphy advises
you travel with at least one spare.
A more common sight in sportives

this year is the big volume of bikes
equipped with disc brakes. They
have pros and cons, and whether
they overtake rim brakes remains
to be seem, but for Ruphy, more
disc brakes at least provides a
lighter workload.
We are seeing more disc
brakes on the road. In terms of
maintenance, rim pads get worn
much faster, particularly in the
wet. Whether riders opt for discs
is a personal choice personally, I
prefer the softness of rim brakes.
After sportives, were often so
tired that we put our bikes in a
corner until the next time we ride
and concentrate on the recovery of
our bodies. On multi-stage events
that next time will be tomorrow and
your bike will also be in need of some
tender loving care after a long day in
the mountains.
Even if you dont have an obvious
issue with your bike, Ruphy still
advises you to have your bike
checked out by an expert straight
away. You can have a little problem
after every stage and, if we see the
bike, we can stop it developing
into a big problem that might ruin
your week.
Further reading: BikeRadar has a
comprehensive rundown of the steps you
should follow when packing your bike
away (tinyurl.com/CP-travelabroad).
The Mavic service team

will be on hand,but
dont put off doing
your own bike prep
M
HE TEA
MEET T
Richard
Schofield
John
Whitney
Paul
Robson
After shaking off

various ailments
and packing an
asthma inhaler in my
jersey pocket Im
finally getting
consistent training
miles in. The warm
weathers helping,
and feels like a good
test of the conditions
Im hoping for in the
Pyrenees. However,
given my pathetic
start to the year, and
after a bit of soul
searching, Ive
decided to just
tackle the compact
version, a mere
296km and 6850m
of climbing over two
mountain stages. As
well as getting out on
my own or with a
small group of club
mates, I joined
15,000 other riders at
Velothon Wales. It
was a good leg
stretcher, but not
really hilly enough for
my purposes. The
upcoming Monster
Sportive will be a
sterner test of my
climbing form with
over 4000m packed
into one days riding
in mid Wales.
By necessity, much
of my training for
last years Haute
Route Dolomites was
confined to the
Wattbike in our office
basement. It did
wonders for riding at
a high intensity for
the first two or three
hours of each stage,
but all week Id fall to
pieces on the final
climb. Thats been on
my mind this year. I
tend to get a bit
bored riding huge
distances in training,
so Ive been sure to
ride more sportives
and gran fondos,
which keep my
attention better.
This month Ive
ridden a couple of
belters: first the
Granfondo Stelvio
Santini, which was
140km in the Italian
Alps that finished
with 60km uphill
to the top of the
Stelvio Pass, followed
by Velothon Wales,
a tremendous
closed-road event in
South Wales that if
you missed this year
should be on your list
for 2016.
After spending the

last weekend in May
riding 623km from
Windsor to Chester
and back to complete
my final Paris-BrestParis qualifier, my
thoughts turned to
the fun Id have on a
three-day training
camp in the French
Alps with Haute
Route training
partner Alpine Cols.
You can read more
about the brilliantly
organised trip next
issue, but three days
of great riding and
coaching had me
climbing as I would
have hoped and
descending better.
Until halfway through
the Time Megve
Mont Blanc sportive,
when I took a tumble
on some broken road
and broke my right
collarbone. My
training has shifted
indoors with a focus
on mind- and
seat-numbingly
long turbo sessions
and a series of
off-bike conditioning
exercises. Its
going to be a long
month ahead
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If you insist... A
big ride from the
recently opened
Gloucester Services
calls for some
light refreshment
THE BIG RIDE GLOUCESTER SERVICES p184

WE RODE IT! VELOTHON WALES p194,
ENERVIT TOUR OF CAMBRIDGESHIRE p196
CALENDAR p198
RACE NUMBERS p200
THE BIG RIDE
Service
course...
Team Cycling Plus

exit Gloucester
Services the
unusual way
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
Is it possible to go for a ride from

a motorway service station?
Theres one way to find out
WORDS SIMON GREENACRE PHOTOGR APHY JESSE WILD
ere are some notable

events that have
happened recently in the
UK: Prince Williams wife
birthed out royal sprog
number two, Bradley
Wiggins secured the hour
record and Gloucester
Services opened.
Thats right, Gloucester
Services. Okay, on the whole, its fair
to say that its opening passed a lot of
people by, because who cares when a
service station opens? As often as not,
theyre grim places full of people in
search of fast food, wondering if their
expensive and bland coffee tastes any
better than the expensive petrol
theyve just put into their Focus.
Theyre full of people like you and I,
on a journey, in need of a pee and a
pasty, happy to be tempted by the
promotional Haribo on the way out.
On your Marks
Im excruciatingly middle class so Ill
concede that I like the services with
an M&S. If youre on the way home
from a heavy weekends drinking
with your friends, feeling ravaged
and in desperate need of the kind of
atonement you can only get from a
quinoa salad and some not-fromconcentrate orange juice, these are a
beacon of light. But perhaps youre
more sensible than that now youve
swapped heavy weekends on the
sauce in Newquay for early mornings
on the bike before languidly flicking
through the pages of Cycling Plus
(other cycling magazines arent
available). The M&S Simply food at
Leigh Delamere services doesnt hold
the same allure it once did.
Its unlikely that service stations
have a special place in your life, unless
you live in or near Gloucester. Apart
from cider and cheese rolling, theres

not much to do round here, so when
Gloucester Services opened up on the
M5, everyone was talking. These are
not like any other services, apart from
Tebay on the M6, which are part of the
same group. For a start, the grasscovered buildings seem to be part of
the landscape. Youll also find a
fishmonger, a butchers counter and
a farm shop, which is how we find
ourselves tucking into tasty breakfast
rolls before finding a path out of the
car park to start our journey.
We had dispensation to park here,
but you get two hours of free parking,
which is enough for a quick spin if
youve got your bike, but you could
easily start this route from Nailsworth
or nearby Brookthorpe, enjoying a pit
stop at the services en route, natch.
Our first waypoint is Stroud, a mere
seven miles in. Im with Cycling Pluss
shapes and colours guru Rob, and we
draft each other as we head south on
the busy A4173. Fortunately were
quickly on to some less busy back
roads that I hope will be all rolling
fields and er wild boars. Rob is right
on my back wheel when I realise the
sharp left-hander we need to get off
the main road is rapidly approaching,
so I grab two big handfuls of brake
and forget to warn him. He shouts at
me as he skits past with his back
wheel skipping over the ground.
It looks like our 60-mile route is
going to be easy just what I want
when Ive managed to legitimately
spend the day out of the office.
Although Im confident of the route,
Ive written some directions into my
phone. I hadnt anticipated having to
refer to them after 40 minutes. We
ride around the centre of Stroud for a
quarter of an hour looking for the road
I want before I remember that we
THE BIG RIDE
Every bit of my forward

motion is greeted by
swipes from brambles,
thorns and nettles
need to find a cycle path that will

take us to Nailsworth. Of course, its
closed where we want to join it so we
relish the chance to faff around even
more before finally finding a way on
to it two miles down the road.
Its fair to say were not well
prepared because I only half know
the route, and during the ride I
discover that Ive routed us down
unpaved roads, gravel paths and
byways. This would be fine on a
crosser, but Rob is on his Felt race
bike, and Im on my Orbea Avant,
complete with inappropriate tyres.
Still, we get our heads down on the
way to Nailsworth, blasting over
a mix of loose gravel, stones and
smooth, dry mud. As we steam down
the path in a two-man train, I wait
for the hiss of a puncture to derail
us. Skittering over sharp-looking
stones, into bottomless puddles
and through sloppy ruts I know Im
asking for too much from delicate
tyres, but they manage to fend off
seemingly imminent deflation.
Our lack of preparedness rears

its head again as we as we leave
Nailsworth and change course to
head west towards Dursley and
Berkeley. As we leave the village I
remember that weve got a climb
to the next major road. It starts off
with a short section at 25 per cent.
Im in front of Rob, out of the saddle
and going too hard, wheezing
my way towards the sky when he
shoots past me with too much ease
for my liking. I pull myself together
and get past him just as the gradient
backs off to a less offensive sub-10
per cent. The hill goes on for over 10
minutes and we both rue sprinting
up the bottom section.
Like a jungle sometimes

At the top of the lane we hook a left
down a bridleway. Tree branches
create a dark tunnel that works
as the perfect vessel for holding
the enticing smell of fresh horse
droppings. Its hard-packed gravel
for 100 metres before it turns to
Main picture The

M5 motorway is
but a dream
Top left Its posh
French pastries not
common Cornish
pasties at these M5
services
Above left
Nailing it through
Nailsworth sadly
no time for a West
Country cider
Bottom right No
trying to sneak
under the crossing
barriers, this isnt
Paris-Roubaix
a muddy, rutted path that has me

wishing for front suspension and
a fat front tyre. Its so overgrown
that it feels like Im riding
through a jungle and every bit of
my forward motion is greeted by
swipes from brambles, thorns and
nettles. I shouldnt be riding a road
bike down this road, and Im sure
the wildlife feels the same way
as we accidentally break up some
X-rated pigeon-on-pigeon action.
The lane ejects us into a field not
what Id expected. We cant ride
through or along it but fortunately
theres a low and very tired-looking
barbed wire fence running along its
edge. Stepping over it requires us to
ease the rusty wire down, away from
the obvious danger zone, although
Im confident that if I get too close to
the rusty barb, my panicked genitals
would have retreated far enough
inwards for it to not be a problem.
The road we end up on undulates
us towards Dursley, where we stop
for lunch at the Old Spot Inn. We
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
both have pulled pork rolls, in case

you wondered. The ride out of
Dursley is punctuated by the short
but fun descent of Taits Hill. I fall
short of hitting a magic 50mph but
my speed carries me over the M5
and in to Berkeley. A good friend of
mine lives in the town, so I decide to
to see if hes in, not because I
especially want to see him, but he
always has a good selection of
biscuits. He isnt home and just
before leaving his driveway, I get
cramp in my foot as Im clipping in.
On my way to the ground, I manage
not to take out Rob, instead catching
myself on the saddle, which gives
me a strong blow to the kidney.
My pride is still dented by the
time we reach Slimbridge, although
the tranquility of the sleepy canal
heals it with ease. Ive never been to
Slimbridge before and with the
water sparkling under the bright
sunshine, its a pleasant place to
roll into. As we approach the water,
were blocked by the gates of the
swing bridge (which isnt

particularly slim) while a canal boat
chugs past. With the barriers up, we
cross the water and jump on to the
canal path, which was the only bit
of untarmacked road I was aware of
before the start. I like the
exchanges between local boat
owners and the bridge operators
so thick with West Country dialect
that theyre unintelligible to an
interloper from London like me.
Water wheels
The brief ride along the Gloucester
and Sharpness Canal is a pleasant
experience thats topped off nicely
when we come away from the water.
Frampton-on-Severn is another
village thats new to me and I
wonder why Ive never come here
before. It sits on a wide, open grasslined road and feels like a proper
English village. Its resplendent in
the afternoon sun. Theres a pub
at the end and Im envious of the
people sipping ice-cold pints on
THE BIG RIDE
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
I suggest to Rob that he gets

the car while I sit in the sun
with a drink, but his
response is disappointing.
the cusp of the green.

Im unrepentant but Im
I suggest to Rob that he
sure my body feels the
Simon couldnt wait
to upload another
continues alone to get
same as his. But as is
shot to his favourite
the car and pick me up
always the case for me,
canal photostream
while I sit in the sun with
the strain of the climb is
a drink, but his response
quickly forgotten by the
is disappointing.
time were hammering
At this point, I know we have one
down the other side of the hill back
more climb to tackle before weve
towards Nailsworth.
dispatched the majority of the
work. Frocester Hill is just over a
To get back to Stroud, we have to
mile of twisting tarmac at 9 per
take the same jaggedly surfaced
cent. Its a busy and gruelling
cycle path as earlier, and once again
section. I sit on Robs back wheel as
Im hoping my tyres hold out, which
we winch ourselves to the top with
they do, although Im sure its only
hearts and lungs working hard. At
because my whispered prayers have
the top, Rob pulls his bike to the
kept them inflated. The short ride
side of the road and calls me a
back to the services through the
bastard for putting that climb in at
town of Stonehouse is uneventful
the end of the route. On the surface
Close to the hedge
LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
NEAREST STATION
Gloucester; Stroud
nationalrail.co.uk
FOOD AND DRINK
We ate at Dursleys
Old Spot Inn (www.
oldspotinn.co.uk),
but there are
plenty of places to
eat and drink along
the route, in
Stroud, Nailsworth
and Frampton. Or
you could stock up
at Gloucester
Services farm
shop, butcher or
fishmonger
WHERE TO STAY
Gloucester, Stroud
and the Cotswolds

offer something for
all budgets, from
B&Bs to boutique
hotels. cotswold.
com lists cyclefriendly options.
BIKE SHOPS
The Stroud area is
home to Cytek,
(cytekcycles.co.uk),
the Bike Works
(thebikeworks.co.uk)
and Noahs Ark
(noahsark.co.uk).
TOURIST INFO
visitthecotswolds.
org.uk
thecityofgloucester.
co.uk
E
R
O
T
S
N
I
S
E
D
O
C
USE THESE
!
E
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O
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& ONL
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15 OFF 150
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Image Trek Bicycle Corporation 2015

*Voucher Code T&C's: Excludes gift vouchers. Can be used online & instore. Expires: 17/08/15. Full terms and conditions are available from our stores or from: Leisure Lakes Bikes, PO Box 328, Leyland, PR25 9BN. Prices are correct at time of printing and may vary from the ones stated, visit www.leisurelakesbikes.com for current prices.
THE BIG RIDE
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
I shouldnt ride a road

bike off-road. Thats the
obvious lesson that I take
from the day
but Im more than capable

of making up for this. As
Main picture
Youre in the
we head back down the
Cotswolds, so there
rutted unsurfaced road to
will be hills
meet the path that leads
back to the services car
Top right
so youll need a
park, Rob realises hes
GPS to seek out
nearly missed our turning.
a few more
Im on his back wheel
when I have to brake hard
Middle right
Mmm, beer!
to avoid him. My bike
doesnt track at all and
Bottom right
bucks me into a hedge,
Simons feeling a
where I lay groaning and
little horse. Boom,
boom!
gurgling for a minute.
I shouldnt ride a road
bike off-road. Thats the
obvious lesson that I take
from the day. The other is
that service stations dont
have to be so grim, and that if
youre on the M5, I can see why
people stop off at Gloucester
Services and if youve got a bike
with you, you could even stretch
your legs with a spin through the
beautiful nearby countryside.
Distance: 60.5 miles (97.5km)

Grade: Moderate. 4642ft climbing in total, most of which
comes from three climbs, with Frocester Hill the worst.
Download: www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/765935753
Sneak out of
the back door
at Gloucester
Services and head
for Stroud on the
A4173 and Wades
Lane. (Be aware
that there are
parking charges at
the services).
At Stroud, look
for the Canal
and follow
National Cycle
Route 45 to
Nailsworth.
At Nailsworth,
head down
Market Street
and Horsley Road
and youll end up
on the rolling
B4058 and B4066.

Youll be heading
for Dursley and
Berkeley.
At Berkeley,
youll turn
right and
head down Station
Road and Halmore
Lane towards
Slimbridge.
At Slimbridge,
head for the
water, cross
the bridge over
the Sharpness and
Gloucester canal,
and turn right,
riding along the
canal towpath
to Framptonon-Severn.
At Frampton,
youll ride
towards
Frocester and
Nympsfield before
arriving back at
Nailsworth, where
you need to head
back down NCN
Route 45 to Stroud.
Stay on the
cycle path
when you
reach Stroud and
follow the signs
for Stonehouse.
When you reach
Stonehouse, its
a few short miles
north to get back
to Brookthorpe
and the Gloucester
Services.
2015 Quest framesets
9dd^jYe]k[YfZ][mklgeZmadllgYfqkh][a[Ylagf&Hd]Yk][gflY[lmk^gjegj]\]lYadk&
Quest Pulse 2015
F]oYf\j]nak]\^mdd[YjZgfjY[]^jYe]k]l^gj*()-$oalàehjgn]e]flk^jgel`]gja_afYd
eg\]daf[dm\af_l`]ghlagfgê][`Yfa[Ydgj]d][lja[Yd[YZd]jgmlaf_Yf\l`]f]oH>+(
ZgllgeZjY[c]lYkklYf\Yj\&Fgomkaf_[gfn]flagfYdj]egnYZd]k]Ydhgkllg]fYZd]<a*
k]YlhgklZYll]jqafklYddYlagf&
RRP: 1249.00
Quest Phase 2015
F]o^gj*()-$[geh]lalan]dqhja[]\^mdd[YjZgfjY[]^jYe]k]loal`lYh]j]\`]Y\lmZ]Yf\gn]jkar]\
\goflmjflg_an]mdljYkla^^Yf\]^[a]flja\af_[ge^gjl&
RRP: 799.00
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WE RODE IT!
VELOTHON WALES
14 June 2015 > 140km > 1826m climbing,
50km > 634m climbing
Words: John Whitney Photos: rb-create
losed-road events are a

rare thing for amateur
cyclists in the UK so
when you do get the
opportunity to use all of the
road, jump red lights and
choose which side of the road
furniture to ride around, you
say thank you very much,
which we did at the inaugural
Velothon Wales.
This being a sportive and not
a gran fondo, the 15,000 riders
were released in staggered
pens, giving the Velothon a
safer, less chaotic opening.
Unfortunately, the edge was
taken off that safety later in
the ride, with tacks being left
on the road.
Velothon had its share of
unattractive Cardiff back roads
and dual carriageways, but
once we got beyond Newport,
the route was exceptional.
The highlight was the

Tumble. Thousands whod
rattled along at over 20mph
for the previous two hours
came to a halt as one of
Britains most feared climbs
showed why it has such a
reputation. We started fairly
high in the field in pen D1,
which meant we avoided a
logjam of unclipped riders
further down the field.
It was a route back-ended
with tough climbs. Before
Caerphilly Mountain at 120km
saw me all but self-combust,
there were some nasty drags
up several stretches of wideopen dual carriageway.
Mercifully, after Caerphilly,
the road pointed down all the
way to the finish. The 300m
home straight cried out for a
sprint finish but my tank, alas,
was empty.
Once we got beyond

Newport, the route
was exceptional
YOU RODE IT!
TOM DYE
Cardiff
As a Welshman it
was a fantastic
experience to ride on
home roads and see
such great support
on the roadside.
IAN HAMILTON
Bromley
There were queues
at registration but
the ride was superb.
Wide open roads and
lots of space.
REUBEN BAKKERDYOS
Bristol
The freedom of
riding flat out on
closed roads through
the Welsh
countryside puts
Velothon Wales as
one of the best
sportives Ive done.
WE RODE IT!
Despite lacking the

elevation of other
events, this was
still a worthy challenge
As an Italian Gran
Fondo-style event
the riders set
off together
ENERVIT TOUR OF CAMBRIDGESHIRE

6 & 7 June 2015 > 28km TT/128km > 508m climbing (128km)
Words: Rob Spedding Photos: MK Images
es, youve read the climbing

figure above correctly. My
Garmin tells me that over the
83 miles of the Tour of
Cambridgeshire Gran Fondo on
Sunday 7 June I climbed a measly
508m. If youre unfamiliar with the
countryside around Peterborough
youll likely be questioning my
GPSs accuracy. Or assuming that
those 128km were easy. Wrong on
both counts.
If youre a Fen dweller (or one of
the 5000 who rode the event) youll
know that the elevation makes sense
its flat around these parts. The
highest point on the route? 250ft
above sea level. The Fred Whitton it
aint, but it was still a brilliant, and
challenging first running for our
newest Tour.
Top right Local

residents embraced
the event and
turned out to
cheer riders on
Middle right
Closed roads
offered safety and
speed advantages
The challenge comes in a couple of

flavours. First, the flatness of the
Cambridgeshire countryside means
that what it lacks in climbs it makes
up for in strength-sapping wind. It
didnt stop blowing cross or
headwind for the whole ride.
Secondly, the Tour of
Cambridgeshire is a closed-road
Gran Fondo. This means it was an
actual, proper Italian-style mass
road race. Well, it was if you had a
race licence. Andrew Williams and
Laura Massey hammered it around to
What it lacks in climbs

it makes up for in strengthsapping winds
win the mens and womens races

respectively, with Williams
averaging 26mph. Even I managed a
not-too-shabby 20mph average.
That speed was helped by the fact
that the closed roads and the
flatness - made rattling along in
groups easier than on your usual
sportive. The racing was helped by
locals cheering as we flew past.
The day before the Gran Fondo
proper, the ToC hosted a closed-road
28km time trial and the brave or
foolish including Cycling Plus, took
part in both. Although I enjoyed my
first true contre-la-montre
experience, it confirmed another
aspect of cycling Im rubbish at!
Rubbish isnt an accusation you can
level at this event lets hope it
becomes established in the calendar.
N
DO S A
MIS UTE
MIN
Take in a coastal route

for charity or follow in
the tyre tracks of a
cycling hero
2
3
1
CALENDAR
AUGUST
1
GOLDEN OLDIE
Jurassic Classic
16 August
The fight against
prostate cancer is
the cause, but what
about the effect?
Given the amount
of climbing in the
100-mile route,
tired legs probably.
Exmouth Rugby
Club is the base,
and the ride heads
out to Honiton
at the mid-point
either side of
some work in the
Blackdown Hills.
prostatecanceruk.org
EASTERN
PROMISE
Tour de Broads
23 August
Dean Downing has
kept himself busy
since calling time
on his pro career,
and hes still got
plenty of energy.
Hes the guest
at this Norfolk
sportive and will
ride its 117km out of
Strumpshaw Hall.
revolutionevents.co/
tour-de-broads
GET REGISTERED
Reg Harris
Cyclosportive
30 August
Bury lad Reg
Harris was a fivetime track world
champion in the
1940s and 50s, as
well as an Olympic
silver medallist.
This sportive, set
up by the local
Rotary Club with
the support of his
family, honours his
memory and raises
funds for local
charities. Harris
started his career
with Bury CTC
and whether you
choose the 26- or
51-mile routes,
youll ride on many
of the roads on
which Reg would
hone his incredible
turn of speed. Its
an up-and-down
route, with nearly
4,000ft of uphill on
the 51-miler. The
ascent of Winter
Hill is a highlight.
regharrissportive.
co.uk
STAR TURN
Hoy 100
30 August
For a man who
made his name
riding round a
track, it seems odd

that Sir Chris Hoy
would put his name
to this savagely
hilly sportive.
Those entering will
need to ride over
11,000ft over the
likes of Malham
Cove and Holme
Moss. To be fair
to the big man, he
practised what he
preached last year
by riding the thing,
and hell be doing
so again this year.
evanscycles.com
FAMILY FUN
Castle Combe
Severn Bridge
Sportive
30 August
Two great
landmarks of the
southwest Castle
Combe motor
racing circuit
and the Severn
Bridge and this
100km/100-mile
sportive lets you
ride them both.
Its part of a wider
family cycling
festival, with
agility rides for
kids and a vintage
bike display.
severnbridge
sportive.co.uk
2. Julian Claxton 3. Sport Sunday 4. Sport Sunday

Abroad: maindruphoto.com
Take your pick from our choice of

sportives to sign up for this month...
5
RIDING AWAY
MANS UP
Le Mans 24,
22-23 August
550 teams and 2500
riders will descend on
the Le Mans Bugatti
Circuit for this
gruelling day-long
race. The 4.2km track
has some kinks in it,
with a sharp climb near
the beginning giving
way to a long gradual
descent towards the
line. Entry starts from
275 per team.
24heuresvelo.fr
RACE NUMBERS *
*Okay, we know its not meant to be a race!
THE ALPINE
CHALLENGE
WHEN 9-13 Sept
WHERE Annecy
DISTANCE TBC
(110km average
per day)
PRICE 995 entry.
From 1620 inc
accommodation.
WEBSITE
alpinechallenge.
co.uk
Not quite as demanding as a

race, yet more competitive
than your average sportive,
HotChillees Alpine Challenge
operates in a unique middle
ground. It has the same
format as its London-Paris
and Cape Rouleur events,
which means rolling road
closures, motorbike outriders
but best of all, race sections.
There are four on all three
stages, each corresponding to
the different leaders jerseys
you see in pro cycling.
Hotel youll stay in

during the event.
Unlike a lot of multiday mountain
events, the Alpine
Challenge stays
rooted in the lake
town of Annecy, in
the French Alps,
which means,
thankfully, your bags
can stay unpacked
each morning.
Motorbike
outriders will
secure rolling road
closures for each
group and keep
pesky motorists
from riding
among you.
The number of
riders who
finished last years
edition. 23 fell by
the wayside,
emphasising the
tough demands of
three consecutive
days in the Alps.
The length of
the prologue in
kilometres up the
Col de la Forclaz on
the opening day,
used to separate
riders into seeded
groups. 18km
technically makes it
a time trial, but lets
not be pedantic.
Ride captains will

be spread across
four seeded
groups. Each will
have radio contact
with the support
vehicles to ensure
any issues are
quickly resolved.
The number of
former pros
Dave Dent beat
to win last year. A
Tour de France
winner (Stephen
Roche) and ParisRoubaix (Magnus
Backstedt), no less.
Other events in
HotChillees
calendar are
London-Paris,
Dunkerque-Roubaix
and The Cape Rouleur
in South Africa. The
series has something
for everyone hills,
mountains, cobbles
The length in
minutes of
the Eurosport
highlights
package you can
expect to see
following the race.
Matthew Alexander/Hot Chillee, Jean Claude
The number of
climbing metres
riders will scale
over the four days.
Cols include the
Aravis, Croix Fry
and Tour de France
fave, Semnoz, the
climb that saw
Chris Froomes
yellow coronation
in 2013.
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Deputy Editor Paul Robson
Senior Staff Writer John Whitney
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MANAGEMENT
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Skilled bike mechanics are trained........

Attleboro Green, Nuneaton & area
Village Cycle Centre. All repairs and sales. Specialist in
vintage (retro) spares and components, serving
via e-bay world-wide. Graduated 2004
Jeff Oliver
024 7634 5237
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07779 600071
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Mobile and shop
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& area
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Graduated March 2015
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North Lancashire
East London
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07967 023962
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Mobile repairs
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& North Cheshire
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C YC L E AC C I D E N T ?
GET ADVICE FROM THE EXPERTS
Alyson France & Co. Solicitors
Developed by a cycling solicitor to provide a
specialist service, with in-depth knowledge of
the issues affecting cyclists
For free initial advice no obligation
call 0151 348 4400 or
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NO WIN NO FEE
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Member of the Law Society Personal Injury Panel
Authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority No. 287787
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FINAL
WORD
NED
BOULTING
LEADING A SEPARATE LIFE
AFTER A WEEK OF CENTRAL LONDON
COMMUTING, NED WANTS CARS
AND BIKES TO KEEP THEIR DISTANCE
One thing is apparent, though.

The number of cyclists, along the
arterial roads into town, and at the
significant pinch points (bridges
over the Thames, major
intersections) is extraordinary.
Cyclists far outnumber cars at
certain times during the morning,
meaning that motorists have no
option but to hold
back and defer.
Drivers, to our
amazement as much
as theirs, find
themselves in a (notquite-but-nearly
persecuted) minority.
Despite our
strength in numbers, the commute
has got no less eye-poppingly,
spine-tinglingly edgy. Every
day I arrived at the studios not
only bathed in sweat (nice for
David Millar alongside me in the
commentary booth) but also drained
from the mental effort of the ride,
the sheer prolonged, high-wired
concentration required to complete
the journey upright and unscathed.
However, battling the congestionmaddened traffic, iPod-deaf kerbhopping pedestrians and the London
Borough of Hammersmith and
Fulhams scant regard for the need
to fill in potholes is still the best way
of getting around.
Though it goes somewhat

against the grain for me to
say this, I implore you all,
give segregation a chance!
But it could be so much better.

Almost biblically, on the sixth day of
my commute, like a Road to
Damascus, the Road to Vauxhall was
revealed to me. A new, beautifully
surfaced fully segregated cycle path,
the width of a jumbo jet (without the
wings obviously) had opened up,
almost overnight, almost by stealth.
A significant engineering project,
completed with minimum fuss.
I steered onto it, and crossed the
bridge, unthreatened by the growl of
buses and taxis vying for the right to
smack me on the back of the head
with a wing mirror. For the first time
in a decade I crossed Vauxhall Bridge
safely and with a smile. Dropping off
the bridge on the south side, the
path ran out, and I was spilled back
into the semi-lethal mix. But for 300
yards or so, Id seen a glimpse of the
future. More miles of this kind of
lane are to be rolled out across
central London, and I cant wait.
Ive always believed that bikes and
cars need to find a way to co-exist.
For 99 per cent of the countrys
roads, this will remain a necessary
fact of life. But in the heart of the
chaos, where the problems are
uniquely thorny, a different solution
is being offered. Though it goes
somewhat against the grain for me
to say this, I implore you all, give
segregation a chance!
Portrait David Norwich Illustration Simon Spilsbury
ve always believed that

segregation is an intellectual
cul de sac, and not an answer.
Its never offered a solution
as far as religion or race is
concerned, so why would we wish for it on
our roads? Ive recently had plenty of time
and urban miles to ponder this issue.
Ive just come off a block of commuting,
involving eight consecutive days of riding
my bike from my house in south east
London to Ealing Studios, in Ealing
(unsurprisingly). Keen readers with a
background in publishing will realise that,
given the lag between submitting articles
and publication, the eight days in question
coincided with the Critrium du Dauphin.
My daily commute was
taking me to work, in west
London, and not the Alps.
Long after the heydays of
the Ealing comedies, the
ITV4 team took up residence
in the legendary studios, to
broadcast (from a broom
cupboard) a race that played
out against the splendour of southern
France. This column isnt about the race, but
my ride to work. This journey bisects London
from east to west and back again with a little
bit of north to south thrown in. It goes
through the middle of the city taking one
hour and 10mins there, one hour, 25mins
back (a mix of middle-aged fatigue, rush
hour and headwind).
We all ride differently. I tend to favour
visibility over meekness taking up a chunk
of the lane when I feel the need (overtaking
a stationary bus, or pulling away from
lights). Some folk weave madly through the
slightest of gaps, while others wait patiently
in single file at the margins of the road. Most
opt for some sort of middle ground. The
roads should accommodate us all.
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GU
IDE THE
NE
DER
NEW
RI
RI
DE
RS
THE
S GUIDE
NEW RIDERS
GUIDE
E
DE
TH
NE
RIDERS
W
GU
INCLUDES
10 OF THE
BEST BEGINNER
SPORTIVES
THE BIKES AND GEAR

TO GET YOU STARTED
HOW TO KEEP YOUR RIDE

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WELCOME
12
04 20
NEW RIDERS GUIDE
Any new sport or leisure activity can be daunting at first,
and this includes cycling. So with the sun shining and
more and more people taking up cycling, or returning to
it after an absence, we thought it time to produce this guide for
the newbie rider. Taking up cycling can be a life-changing
experience, improving your health, saving you money and
perhaps giving you a new sporting outlet. All of these reasons
and more are covered in 14 reasons to ride. Once youve
caught the cycling bug, youre going to want to know what
bikes to buy, the kit you need, all about Strava and how to
look after your bike. And when youve read and digested
these youre ready to tackle your first event
Paul Robson, Deputy Editor
CON T EN T S
14 Reasons to ride 04 Buying Guide 08 Essential Kit 12
Introduction to Strava 16 Bike Maintenance 20 Puncture Repair 24
Training Plan 26 My First Sportive 32 Beginners Events 34
C Y C L IN G P L U S // N E W R I D E R S G U I D E
14
REASONS
TO RIDE
ROAD CYCLING HAS NEVER BEEN SO POPULAR, BUT IF YOURE STILL
UNCONVINCED WEVE GOT 14 SOLID GOLD REASONS WHY ITS FOR YOU!
WOR DS | SI MON L O CK
N E W R I D E R S G U I D E // C Y C L IN G P L U S
14 REASONS TO RIDE...
Steve Behr
Not so very long ago road

bikes were the distinctly
uncool cousin of the mountain bike.
The general consensus was that the
handlebars were bent out of shape,
the tyres were precariously thin and
the people in charge of them looked
like nerdy stick insects from another
planet. And we havent even
mentioned the Lycra But that was
then and this is now. The road bike
scene is booming and its full of just
as many beginners as veterans. There
are sportives almost all-year round
up and down the UK catering for all

abilities and even women-only
events in the shape of the Macmillan
Cycletta series. Additionally, road
cycling clubs once the preserve of
hardcore racers are increasingly
reacting to the surge in participation
in the sport and many are now
actively encouraging beginner
members, offering shorter
alternatives to the Sunday morning
60-miler. So whether youre a
complete newbie getting on a bike
for the first time, dusting off your old
THE KNOCK-ON EFFECTS OF

REGULAR CYCLING INCLUDE
HEALTHIER BOWELS, BETTER
SLEEP AND A REDUCED
RISK OF DEVELOPING CANCER
04/O5
NEW RIDERS GUIDE
Riding in a
group is a great
way to improve
your bike
handling skills
bike after time off it, or youre looking to

take your riding to the next level theres
never been a better time to pull on the
Lycra and get cycling. If youre still not
convinced then here are 14 reasons why
its time to hit the road!
Healthy body
As hobbies go they dont come
much healthier. Cycling is a
fantastic form of exercise and,
unlike running, it doesnt put huge
amounts of pressure on your knees. With
obesity now affecting 25 per cent of UK
adults and 10 per cent of children, finding
fun ways to keep yourself and the family
active makes a lot of sense. Cycling not
only helps to keep your body fat down
and lower your cholesterol, the knock-on
effects of regular cycling include
healthier bowels, better sleep and a
reduced risk of developing cancer.
bike in 12 monthly instalments

directly out of your gross pay
packet, reducing the tax you pay.
Over 180,000 people in the UK took
advantage of the scheme last year
alone, which is available for bikes
worth up to 1000.
Cycling cities
As Britain continues to
transform itself into a
bike-friendly nation,
more money is being pumped into
our cycling cities. With 114m
being injected into eight Cycling
Ambition Cities by the last
government, there will be yet more
cycle lanes and paths and the rise
in two-wheeled transport looks set
to carry on.
Technological advances
Road cycling might be going
through a purple patch right
now but its not like its
suddenly been invented. When
the first Tour de France was held
in 1903, riders pedalled 17kg steel
bikes with wooden rims and one
gear across stages averaging
400km. Nowadays, for less than
a grand, you can get a great
aluminium frame, 22 gears and
some top-notch components, all of
Comfortable kit
As well as the bikes the
kit has also come a long
way. Now theres no need
to suffer over long distances
when theres so much top quality
clobber on the market. Whatever
the weather theres a material out
there to keep you warm, cool, dry
and, most importantly, comfy and
happy. For everything you could
possibly need head to page 12.
Governmental gains
Having wised up (somewhat)
to the fact that driving
a car is not a healthy or
sustainable way to get from A to
B, the government is desperately
trying to make cycling more
achievable. The Cycle to Work
Scheme allows you to purchase a
THERES NO NEED TO SUFFER

OVER LONG DISTANCES WHEN
THERES SO MUCH TOP QUALITY
CLOBBER ON THE MARKET
Wannabe Wiggo
which would be more than capable

of tackling a Tour stage or two.
Check out our best bikes on page 8.
We can all ride

the same roads
that Wiggo races
on, at home and
abroad
Very few football fans ever

get the chance to play at
Wembley and only a handful
of amateur tennis players get
anywhere near Wimbledons Centre
Court, but cyclists are different.
Unlike most sports theres nothing
to stop cyclists from heading out to
the famous climbs where the pros
compete. Whether its the Tour de
Frances notorious Alpe dHuez,
Mont Ventoux, or Col du Tourmalet,
or Box Hill of London Olympic road
race fame, the choice is yours. A
number of sportives feature these
killer climbs but theres nothing
to stop you heading up them
whenever you feel like it.
A beautiful mind
The physical benefits of
cycling are understandably
the ones that usually grab
the headlines, but there are also
huge mental gains to be had
from riding your bike. Getting
regular sunlight has been proven
to increase levels of the feelgood hormone serotonin while
researchers from Illinois University
found that a five per cent increase
in cardiorespiratory fitness from
cycling led to an improvement of
up to 15 per cent in mental tests.
14 REASONS TO RIDE...
NEW RIDERS GUIDE
06/O7
Laurence Crossman-Emms
Tom Simpson
Join the club to

expand your
riding horizons
and meet fellow
cyclists
THE CYCLE TO WORK SCHEME

ALLOWS YOU TO BUY A BIKE
IN MONTHLY INSTALMENTS
OUT OF YOUR GROSS PAY PACKET
Charity challenge
Its incredible how quickly
your mileage threshold
increases on a road bike
and before you know it youll
be clocking up 50 miles without
thinking. From here the temptation
to push yourself will undoubtedly
become too strong and youll soon
be looking for bigger challenges.
Raising money for charity is a
great way to harness this desire for
miles and there are plenty of big
rides out there. The Deloitte Ride
Across Britain takes entrants from
Lands End to John OGroats in nine
days and is a great fundraiser for
charities in the UK and abroad.
The right track

Thanks to projects
engineered by Sustrans,
EuroVelo and the US
Bicycle Route System (USBRS) the
number of signposted cycle routes
worldwide continues to increase.
Sustrans has created 14,000 miles
across the UK while EuroVelos
routes across Continental Europe
total 28,000 miles. The USBRS
boasts over 8000 miles of bike
routes. All of this will help to make
travelling long distances by bike
much easier and make touring
a great summer holiday option.
Winning ways
For riders with a
competitive edge
theres plenty of
opportunity to get out there and
test yourself against fellow riders
or the clock. New sportives and
gran fondos are popping up all over
the place with plenty of femaleonly events and beginner-friendly
distances to choose from too.
Travel and training

The average UK
commute by car is
16.7 miles or the
chance for a perfect training ride.
Even if you only cycled one way
youd still be getting more than
your recommended daily dose of
30 minutes of light exercise. For
quick-fire fitness results try some
short intervals on your way home.
Save the planet

Transport is on its
way to overtaking
industry as the
major contributor to the UKs CO2
emissions. Private motor vehicles
generate nearly 43 per cent of carbon
emissions from transport so if just
some of your journeys can be made
by bike instead of car then your
conscience can feel that bit clearer.
Hit the club

Joining a cycling
club is a great way to
meet new people and
its now easier than ever. British
Cycling has over 1700 registered
clubs up and down the country
and despite their reputation for
being ultra competitive theyre
now a lot more open to beginners,
offering different rides according
to experience. British Cyclings GoRide programme has allowed over
280 clubs to open their doors to
young riders and children offering
coaching at grass routes level.
Roads less
travelled
Once youve got to
grips with the road
there are lots of new directions you
can take your cycling. If you like
the tarmac moving quickly beneath
your wheels then why not try out a
time trial, or if speed is your thing
perhaps a velodrome could be the
place for you. In winter months the
cyclo-cross season takes over parks
and trails and provides cyclists with
a great way to get off road and enjoy
some mud. Beyond this there are
plenty of mountain bike disciplines
to choose from, each one more
grin-inducing than the next.
BIKE
BUYER'S
GUIDE
FROM FLAT BAR TO DROP BAR AND FROM ALUMINIUM TO CARBON, CHOOSING
THE RIGHT ONE CAN SEEM DAUNTING. WE EXPLAIN WHERE TO START
WOR DS | SI MON L O CK
BUYING A BIKE...
08/O9
NEW RIDERS GUIDE
to access good equipment with

relative ease by spreading the cost.
Your first step should be
deciding on the budget you have
available and remember that
youll probably need some new kit
to make riding your new bike a
practical and enjoyable experience.
If youve got less than a couple of
hundred pounds to spend you
should forget about buying a new
bike, and buy second-hand
instead. Machines below this price
point are often made of poor
quality materials, low-grade
component clones and will be very
poorly assembled. A 79.99 bike
can easily end up costing the same
amount again in order to get it
adjusted correctly by a competent
bike shop, so you should take that
amount and put it towards a decent
one instead.
You will also need to factor in
a bare bones maintenance budget
of about 100 a year. This breaks
down to a couple of cheap tyres,
a new chain, a couple of sets of
brake blocks and some workshop
labour. You could save money by
doing some of the work yourself.
Where to buy
Oliver Edwards; Getty
Your local
independent
bike dealer will
set up your bike
for you safely
re you after a bike that

you can do 75 miles on
in a weekend, hammer
the hills with, race or
simply explore the open
road on? Whatever bike
takes your fancy, what
follows is our guide to deciding
how you can get aboard, explaining
what you need to buy, how you go
about buying it and where to find
the best possible deal
Healthy body
The Cycle to Work initiative has
encouraged employer-purchasing
schemes combined with
government tax breaks. This
makes it possible to treat yourself
to some serious equipment, worth
up to 1000, and feel that youre

getting something back from the
taxman at the same time always
a bonus. If your company isnt in
the Cycle to Work scheme or youre
self-employed, creative financing
is well established in the bike
trade. Many shops of all sizes and
online retailers offer good and
often zero per cent credit deals
that have helped countless cyclists
Your local bike shop is still the

best place to buy despite the
many temptations of the internet,
especially if you take a long-term
view on warranty and after-sales
service. Person-to-person contact
should ensure that you dont get
lost in the bike-purchasing woods.
As Johns Bikes in Bath told us:
Were not selling bikes, were
selling cycling. Its an honest
statement that encapsulates the
long-term thinking of a good
shop. But before you step over the
threshold of your local bike shop,
make sure that you have a firm
idea of your budget and what kind
of bike youre in the market for.
IF YOUVE GOT LESS THAN

A COUPLE OF HUNDRED
POUNDS TO SPEND YOU SHOULD
BUY SECOND-HAND INSTEAD
groceries and cheap inflatable

paddling pools, and go elsewhere
for bikes. The same goes for bikes
advertised in the Sunday papers or
offered free with the purchase of a
cruise or life insurance: stay away.
These bike-alikes will be nothing
but trouble and feel hideous to ride.
Bike choice
For general riding such as
commuting, a robust mount is
obviously preferable, but if you
want to add a bit more fun and
speed to the equation, or start
entering events, you can have your
cake and eat it too if you make
the right choices.
For example, should you go for
aluminium, steel or carbon? Frame
material will largely be dictated by
the price, but expect either lowgrade steel or aluminium to cost
up to about 400. From this point
onwards, oversized aluminium
tubing is pretty much dominant.
As you head towards the 1000
mark you start seeing carbon forks
and the occasional carbon frame,
though expect to see some kit
compromises to hit the 1000
price point.
Whatever material its made of,
a road or racing bike will get you
about faster than any other type of
bike, whatever you ask of it. Fancy
taking a sedate spin? Check. Fancy
entering a sportive? Again, check.
Fancy something competitive?
Another check. Road bikes will take
Disc brakes are

becoming more
and more
popular on road
bikes today
all of these activities in their stride.

Whats more, both main road bike
variants road race and endurance
models will happily handle
anything you care to throw at them.
The differences between them are
subtle but they can be important,
especially if you find an endurance
bike more comfortable for longer
days in the saddle.
Road bikes can also be battlehardened for commuting duties if
you fit mudguards and slightly
bigger and tougher tyres where
possible. Also good for this are
bikes with disc brakes. Having long
dominated mountain biking, disc
braking is the latest technology
making huge inroads into the world
of road riding, the extra control
really coming into its own in the
wet. The increasing popularity of
disc brakes has also given rise to a
new type of adventure road bike
thats equally at home on gravel
and tracks as it is on tarmac
machines such as the GT Grade
available in aluminium and
carbon builds from 750 upwards
and BMC Gran Fondo GF02 Disc.
Oliver Edwards; Geoff Waugh
Keep in mind that most local shops

will have deals on offer depending
on the time of the year, and that
they are always keen to move last
years stock.
Theres no doubt that a lot of
the best deals available on bikes
new and old are to be found on
the internet. Now that purchasing
online is done with barely a flicker
of concern, you should be able to
find plenty of good deals that could
save you money while helping to
keep the parcel delivery industry
afloat. But make sure to set aside
at least 50-75 to get things
sorted mechanically during the first
month because, unlike purchases
made at your local shop, you wont
be able to send a web-bought bike
back for its required first service.
Consequently, any problems or
tweaks will most likely have to be
dealt with at your local bike shop.
eBay and other auction sites are
another obvious option. However,
we only recommend purchasing
here if youre an experienced bike
mechanic. If youre looking at
buying second-hand, its best to do
so in a situation where you can
wheel the bike over to a shop for a
professional assessment before you
part with any cash.
In these days of pile-em-high,
sell-em-cheap stock, large
supermarkets and warehouse-sized
toy stores are another increasingly
high-profile option for bike buyers.
Our advice? Stick with them for
BUYING A BIKE...
NEW RIDERS GUIDE
10/11
THINK OF SOME OF THE

FEATURES YOU WANT AND ASK
THE HELPFUL SALESPERSON IF
THAT COMBINATION IS ALREADY
AVAILABLE OFF THE PEG
Component choice
Such is the state of refinement and
technology in bikes today that
virtually any widget you could think
of has been designed, tried, tested
and put on the market, offering
what amounts to an overflowing
buffet of choice. Consequently,
another way to fine-tune your bike
is to think of some of the features
you want and ask the helpful
salesperson if that combination is
already available off the peg.
Sizing
We strongly recommend you not to
buy any bike until youve checked it
for size. As with clothes and shoes,
sizing tends to vary between

manufacturers, so while you might
need a road bike with a 54cm frame
from one brand, you might require
quite a different size from another.
A good bike shop will offer you
advice on fitting, as its about
more than sitting comfortably
at a standstill its about how
it positions you when youre
riding, which has a huge effect on
confidence, enjoyment, muscle
health and joint pain.
Once youve worked out your
budget, bike preference and
purchasing method, you should
stand over the bike with both feet
flat on the ground, with your legs
close together. Lift the bike up or
look at the amount of clearance to
your body: you should be able to lift
the front and back wheels evenly
off the ground by about 7-8cm,
which should give the equivalent
clearance between your crotch and
the top-tube (this is known as
standover height).
Equally important is the reach,
or distance from the saddle to
the handlebar there are several
centimetres of adjustment possible
here, but make sure your preferred
setup isnt at either extreme. You
may find yourself tweaking it as
you progress. A test ride will help
hugely. If youre going for a race
steed then expect a lower, more
tucked position, while a bike
designed for more leisurely use
will have a higher handlebar so
that you adopt a more upright

stance when riding.
Basic maintenance
Try to check over your bike once
a week, because riding can be
hard on kit. Get a track pump for
home keeping your tyres at the
right pressure means less rolling
resistance and extends their life
considerably. Pay extra attention
to brakes and wipe grit off the
rims and pads so they last longer.
Be sure to keep your drivetrain
clean, and use a suitable lube, plus
check your tyres for broken glass
or thorns. If your maintenance
skills are lacking consider a course
see the feature on p20. You can
also find many bike maintenance
walkthroughs at www.bikeradar.com.
Enjoy it!
Hopefully, youre now armed with a
bit of extra knowledge and have the
confidence to know what to look
for, what to ask for and how to buy
it. Remember: riding a bike is both
challenging and rewarding. But
most of all its fun. Yes, there are
myriad health and wellbeing
benefits, not to mention financial
ones if you commute by bike. But
nothing can beat the sense of
happiness when all you focus on is
the here and now of your ride and
not the things to do Post-it note
on the fridge door; nothing but
movement, action and reaction. So
go ride and enjoy the freedom!
SELECT
THE RIGHT
GEAR
HERES A GUIDE TO THE BASIC RIDING WARDROBE, TOOLS AND ACCESSORIES
YOU NEED TO KEEP SMOOTHLY SPINNING AWAY THE MILES
I M AGE | RUSSELL BU RTON
ESSENTIAL KIT
12/13
NEW RIDERS GUIDE
Clipless pedals
Endura Airshell
89.99
+++++
Helmet
Helmets can help protect
you in the event of
unfortunate accidents or collisions.
Plus, you might find that if you
wear one and follow sensible
precautions on the road, youll
feel more reassured about your
safety on the bike. This means
you can concentrate your efforts
on developing your technique,
handling skills and simply
enjoying the ride. They are also
required when riding most events.
Theres a huge range of lids on
the market, with styles, colours,
materials and sizing varying

dramatically. Wearing a helmet
no longer means sweltering inside
a heavy casing light and well
vented options are the norm
these days.
As with your bike, try different
models out at your local bike shop
before you buy. If a helmets going
to be effective at all it needs to
be properly fitted and securely
attached to your head, which
means it should sit level, cover
your forehead and have snugly
fitting straps.
A very neatly
finished carbon lid,
that comes with
reinforcing bridges
within its EPS
core. A rotary
dial takes care
of horizontal
adjustment, and
fit can be further
tweaked with a
three-position
vertical adjustment.
GT Corsa 29.99
+++++
The Corsa is light

at just 270g, is
well finished and
vents well to keep
your head cool on
warmer days. Only
the simple retention
system belies its
modest price.
Buy a basic road bike

and it will most likely
come with standard flat pedals.
These are fine for short trips, but
as your skills improve, pedals
that attach you to the bike via
the soles of your shoes are worth
considering. Contrary to what
the name suggests, you clip into
clipless pedals using cleats. Pedals
are the points at which your power
is transmitted to the bike, and
clipless models allow you
to transmit force without your
feet slipping.
Shoes
Road shoes have stiff
soles for efficient power
transfer; also your feet wont flex
over the pedals. Most cycling shoes
have threaded holes in the soles so
that you can bolt on the cleats you
need to use with clipless pedals.
Its quite difficult to walk in road
cleats so some commuters prefer
trainer-like shoes with embedded
cleats. These are used with the
SPD pedal system pioneered by
Shimano, and can be worn on and
off the bike. See the main mag for
our pick of performance
cycling shoes.
Mini pumps
Any seasoned cyclist will
tell you that if youre
riding more than a mile or so from
home on your bike you should be
prepared to fix punctures. Whether
you swap your inner tube or patch
the damaged one (see the Puncture
repair kit box over the page) youll
need to reinflate before you can be
on your way. A lightweight mini
pump will be barely noticeable
in your pack or attached to your
bikes frame. Dont scrimp
on size too much though,
as the smaller the

pump the harder
it will be to inflate
your tubes to 100psi,
the typical pressure
for road tyres. A
built-in pressure gauge
is an advantage, as is a
comfortable handle.
Mitts
Castelli Free
Aero Race 140
A bib yoke keeps
everything flat and
minimalist, while
maintaining support
and stability. A new
Progetto X2 Air insert
features a layered
construction to
minimise chafing.
Its comfortable and
barely noticeable
during short outings
in the saddle.
Bibshorts
For riding in the depths
of winter invest in a pair
of cycling tights to keep your legs
toasty, but come milder weather
you can switch to cycling shorts.
These will be made of tight-fitting
stretchy panels to allow freedom of
movement without excess material
to bunch or chafe.
Shorts come in various shapes
and sizes, so find what works for
you and the weather youre riding
in. For spring and autumn, slightly
heavier material paired with knee
warmers work well, but youll want
lightweight fabric in the heat.
Poorly fitting shorts can lead to
chafing and discomfort.
While full-fingered gloves

are essential for keeping
your hands warm and mobile when
its cold, they become a hindrance
when the mercury rises. Thats
where mitts, or fingerless gloves,
come in.
Designed to give you the
protection of gloves without the
Locks
If you leave your bike
unattended at all then
youre going to need to lock it.
This is one area where you truly
get what you pay for: good locks
arent cheap but the best will resist
anything short of power tools and
make a thief look elsewhere. Its
impossible to be sure how good
a lock is just by looking at it, but
tests have shown that the best
protection comes from D-shaped
shackle locks with hefty armouring
around the lock mechanism. The
D of the lock should engage at
both ends and the key
should be flat
not a cylinder,
which is easier
to attack. If
yourekeeping
your bike in the
garage, consider
a strong wall lock.
heat, they have palm padding that

absorbs road vibrations through
the bar and will act as a shield if
you hit the tarmac. Pairs with mesh
backs will keep you extra cool, and
towelling sections can be handy
when you need somewhere to wipe
your runny nose (it happens to
everyone). Look for tabs, which are
helpful for removing gloves.
Security ratings
The most consistent is the Sold Secure Rating.
Gold, Silver and Bronze show how long a lock
will hold out. Bronze is 1 min with basic tools,
Silver 3 mins with a wider array of tools and
Gold 5 mins with more sophisticated kit. The
Dutch ART standard (rated 1 to 5+, the higher
the better) is also a good guide.
ESSENTIAL KIT
Track pump
Light source
Most bike lights
use Light Emitting
Diodes (LEDs), which
emit light by being
switched on and off
quickly. If you switch
lights on and off for
different lengths of
time you can boost or
reduce output.
To keep annoying
punctures and rolling
resistance to a minimum,
you need to pump your tyres
up regularly. While mini
pumps are excellent for roadside
emergencies they require quite a
lot of effort to get a standard 23mm
road tyre up to 100psi. Track pumps
are larger and much handier for
home use. Look for a heavy, stable
base; fold-out feet are handy if you
want to pack the pump and take it
to events. A decent model should
have a pressure gauge, possibly a
digital one. Most road tyres have
Presta valves, but pumps with
Schrader heads too are useful.
14/15
NEW RIDERS GUIDE
Lights
Essential if youre going
to ride after dark, lights
do two jobs: make you visible and
illuminate the road. In the city
theres enough ambient light that
you just need small, fairly bright
units that other road users can
see. They can be combined with
reflectors to increase your profile.
For unlit roads you need something
more powerful. Efficient, bright
LEDs and lithium-ion rechargeable
batteries mean compact lights can
now pack an incredible amount of
power. Theyre great for longdistance commuting.
Puncture repair kit

With punctures always a
possibility, carry a spare inner tube
with you so youre covered.
If that then blows, a puncture
repair kit will be invaluable.
Standard ones will come with
rubber patches (make sure these
are a suitable size for your
tyres) and some liquid latex for
sticking everything together
all you need to get home. Take
the instructions too if youre not
sure what youre doing.
Mounting
Needs to be strong enough to hold the
light over bumps but also offer a quick
release-style system for removal. Mounts
that require no tools to fit are a bonus but
by no means necessary.
Jerseys
Glasses
Almost an essential,
especially if youre prone
to streaming tear ducts or like
summer rides in the country,
where getting a fly or grit in your
eye is no fun at all. Choose glasses
with as much coverage as possible
and look for photochromic or
interchangeable lenses, so you can
adapt them to the conditions dark
for sunny days, clear for night and
yellow or orange to make overcast
days look cheerful! You can get a
basic set with three lenses without
breaking the bank.
Cycling jerseys have moved

on from pro team replica
kits or simple three-pocketed tops
with a short zip and a length of
elastic to keep them in place.
You can now choose from
jerseys designed for hot weather
featuring venting, super-form
fitting tailoring or climbing fans
options made of the lightest
fabrics. Getting the right size is
crucial, so see manufacturers
advice on their ranges sizing. Look
for silicone grippers on the hem to
prevent the jersey rising up when
youre crouched over the bar.
Fabric
Look out for materials that wick (move
moisture) sweat from the inside of the jersey
to the outside, where it can evaporate.
The better the fabric does this the more
comfortable you will be.
Craft Grand Tour
65 +++++
The Grand Tour has

a really soft feel,
it wicks sweat well
and open weave
mesh panels under
the arms help keep
you cool in warmer
temps. A zippered
pocket on the outside
of the central pocket
keeps small, essential
items secure.
MANY USERS DONT REALISE

THEY HAVE A HOST OF
UNDISCOVERED ADDITIONAL
FUNCTIONS AT THEIR DISPOSAL
STRAVA / TECH
NEW RIDERS GUIDE
16/17
GET
MORE
KUDOS!
FREE ONLINE GPS TOOL STRAVA IS A GREAT WAY TO TRACK YOUR PROGRESS
AND CHALLENGE YOUR FRIENDS. HERES HOW TO GET THE MOST FROM IT
WOR DS | W E ISI A K UC Z AJ
trava (www.strava.
com), the free online
network for athletes, is
hugely popular among
cyclists from beginner
level to Grand Tour
pros. The Segment
Leaderboards and Challenge
features are well known and used
by riders finding motivation from
the friendly competition that
Strava inspires. But many users
dont realise they have a host of
undiscovered additional functions
at their disposal too. Here are five
lesser-known ways to use Strava to
help you get more out of the tool.
Heatmaps/Route Builder/
Local
The Heatmaps
function reveals
the most popular
routes in an area
The Heatmaps feature allows

Strava members to view the most
ridden routes in a given area. Its
part of My Routes on your online
dashboard. By selecting Create
New Route and switching on the

Global Heatmaps toggle in the
Map View Options menu on the
left of the screen, youll see the
roads and bike paths change colour.
The denser the colour, the more its
been ridden by Strava members.
This also assists the Route
Builder, which allows you to plan
and save your routes. Whether
youre looking to conquer littleknown roads in your local area
(look for the pale blue lines), or
interested to see the most popular
routes on the other side of the
world, Heatmaps is a handy tool.
Its particularly useful if youre
taking your bike on holiday. If
youre planning a leisurely flat ride
around an Italian lake, or aiming
for a spot among the pros on a
French col leaderboard (simply
switch Elevation On at the bottom
of the screen to check out the
terrain as you go), this is where
current King Of the Mountain/

Queen Of the Mountain times.
This feature helps you plan how
to tackle the segment, giving you
a heads-up of where its tough or
eases off, so you can measure your
effort and give it your best shot.
to plot your ride. Local is a new
feature that uses user-generated
data to provide you with guides
to major cities including London,
Amsterdam and Berlin. Find some
great rides and brilliant cake stops!
Segment Explore
So youve planned your new
route, but how do you know if a
particular segment is suited to
your abilities? In the Explore area
of the dashboard, select Segment
Explore and you can find the vital
statistics for any existing segment
on the global map, including
distance, grade, elevation and
Compete against
yourself or others
on Strava to
help you realise
your potential
Once youve chosen, click the

play button and watch the activity
unfold. As the icons make their
way along the segment, youll see
exactly where youre gaining or
losing time to your rivals.
Search Pro Athletes

Effort Comparison
Once a rides finished and the
activitys been uploaded to Strava,
most riders take a glance at
their distance, speed and where
theyve landed on the segment
leaderboards but dont venture
into much further analysis. Dont
miss out on the Effort Comparison
tool, which allows you to view a
reenactment of your performance
on a segment compared either with
yourself on previous attempts, or
other members, from the friend
you rode with that day to the
reigning segment KOM/QOM.
While viewing your activity, click
through to the segment you want
to analyse, then select Compare.
Youll appear as an icon on the
segment map, with options below
for whichever member(s) youd
like to compare yourself with.
One of the most special aspects of

cycling as a sport is that you can
perform on the same stage as your
heroes, riding the exact same roads
as your favourite pros. With Strava
you can take that even further
by following the professionals
to view their training and racing
performances, gaining tips from
their efforts.
World Champion Michal
Kwiatkowski recorded his titlewinning ride last year, while many
others uploaded their rides on the
most famous Tour de France roads
and climbs, during training and
while racing the big event itself (in
Yorkshire too of course).
It provides great inspiration to
measure yourself against the pros
and see how they tackle the local
roads used in national races such
as the mens and womens Tours
YOU CAN FIND THE VITAL STATS

FOR ANY EXISTING SEGMENT
INCLUDING DISTANCE, ELEVATION
AND CURRENT KOM/QOM TIMES
STRAVA / TECH
18/19
NEW RIDERS GUIDE
TECH
KNOW HOW
TECHNOLOGY IS REVOLUTIONISING THE WAY WE RIDE MAKING IT SAFER,
EASIER AND MORE FUN. HERES A LOOK AT SOME OF THE BEST HIGH-TECH
TOOLS TO HELP YOU GET MORE FROM CYCLING
BEST ONLINE TRAINING TOOLS

Strava Free
Create a free account on strava.com
and you can record the distance, route
and speed of your rides on your mobile
phone via the free Strava app or GPS. The
information is then sent to your online
account, where you can analyse it and
see how you fare against others. Create
a leaderboard with your cycling buddies,
test your performance against anyone in
your area, or work alone to improve your
times and power output.
www.strava.com
of Britain. To find your favourite

pro, scroll down to the bottom of
your dashboard where youll see
a link to Pros on Strava. Click
through and youll be able to view
and follow all the pro riders using
the service, and verified by Strava.
They might even follow you back
and give you kudos now theres
some good motivation!
Velozone Free
This free online tool allows you to
upload and comment on routes and
photos, analyse your performance, get
tailored training plans (for an additional
fee) and compete with other riders
via leaderboards. Event listings and
competitions are on hand to provide you
with extra motivation. Velozone also
launched a free iPhone app for use on
the go.
www.velozone.com
Training Log/Calendar
Lots of athletes keep a training
diary, so they have an accurate
record of the miles theyve done
and level theyre at as they build
towards their goal event. By using
the built-in Training Log and
Calendar, you can review how
much youre riding in a week,
month, or even over a whole year,
which is a great tool when youre
looking to improve and keep track
of your progress. Simply click on
any month for a closer look at
your activities during that time,
and youll see highlights for when
youve been putting in a lot of
rides, as well periods when youve
not been in the saddle as much.
Both these functions are available
in the Training drop-down menu
on your online dashboard.
BEST VALUE SMARTPHONE

Motorola Moto G From 150
The Motorola Moto G is widely regarded
by tech boffins as the best budget
smartphone. Its fairly chunky but the
solid build, big, clear screen, snappy,
lag-free performance and all-day battery
life are perfect for long rides using hefty
GPS apps.
www.motorola.co.uk
BEST SMARTPHONE
Apple iPhone 6 From 539
At over 500, handsets only are pretty
expensive, but cheaper with contracts
through network providers. The
iPhone is king, with a top spec and the
widest range of accessories, apps and
compatibility.
www.apple.com/uk
BEST APPS
BEST VALUE GPS
Ride ID Free
Bryton Rider 40T 210
This ingenious app could save your life in

the event of a crash. It turns your phones
screen saver into an ID card, showing two
emergency phone numbers, your name,
date of birth, blood type and any medical
conditions you might have.
iPhone and Android
Bryton leads the bargain assault on

both training and navigation fronts.
Full computer upload and ANT+ sensor
compatibility, with multiple focused
pre-loaded workout programmes, seven
test workouts, and comprehensive data
display mean this 56g model is great
value for money.
www.paligap.cc
Bike Doctor 2 3.99

This app explains how to do 40 of the
most common repairs. From fixing
punctures to stopping gears from
skipping, it takes you through each
method step by step. Theres also a
safety check to make sure everything is
running smoothly before you set off.
iPhone and Android
Bike Hub Free

Transform your
smartphone into
a training tool
a quiet route, a fast route or a balance of

the two. Theres also a list of local bike
shops included, which is handy if you
experience any mechanical problems.
iPhone and Android
Get from A to B via the best route for

cycling. This app lets you decide between
BEST TRAINING GPS

Garmin Edge 510 249.99
Garmin started the whole GPS computer
ball rolling and it still sets the standards
for premium performance. The Edge 510
has a 44x35mm screen, weighs 80g, and
is fantastic to use. Accessories cost extra
though 125 more gets you a bike
mount, HR monitor and a cadence sensor.
www.garmin.com
NEW RIDERS GUIDE
MAINTENANCE
KEEPING
IT ON
THE ROAD
DESPITE CYCLING DAILY ELIZABETH ELLIOTTS BIKE MAINTENANCE SKILLS
WERE SERIOUSLY LACKING, SO SHE ENROLLED ON A CTC COURSE
PHOTOS | A DA M GA SSON
hen you think about

whats so appealing
about cycling youre
likely to conjure up
images of glorious
sunny days spent
riding through
beautiful rolling countryside,
making a few stops for coffee and
cake along the way. Theres no
reason why you cant enjoy
countless rides like this but to do
so you need to keep your bike in
good working order. Yes, you
should now be conjuring up
images of grease, multitools and
industrial-sized tubs of Swarfega.
While bike maintenance isnt
the most glamorous side of cycling
it is essential, not only to avoid
long walks home when your chain
has finally snapped after a lifetime
of neglect but also to keep you
safe. After all, discovering your
brake pads have worn out midway
through a long, fast descent is
never going to end well.
To avoid getting your hands dirty
you could take your bike to get
serviced at your local bike shop,
when issues such as worn brakes
and chains should be picked up,
but its far better if you learn how

to maintain your bike yourself, at
least at the most basic level. This
will save you money and mean
your bike will be more regularly
maintained in theory at least!
Moreover, your local bike shop
mechanic isnt going to be much
use to you when youre 20 miles
from home and you get a puncture
that you dont know how to fix. Its
something you have to learn. The
same goes for cleaning and lubing,
as well as knowing how to do a bike
safety check, so you never put
yourself in danger by setting off on
a bike that isnt fit to ride.
Sign up
There are plenty of self-help
tutorials online, such as at
BikeRadar.com, and theres a
puncture repair walkthrough on
DISCOVERING YOUR BRAKE

PADS HAVE WORN OUT MIDWAY
THROUGH A LONG, FAST DESCENT
IS NEVER GOING TO END WELL
Whatever
your level of
experience CTC
will have a
course for you
NEW RIDERS GUIDE
20/21
the following pages, but the best

way to learn is to get taught. You
might have a friend or family
member who can do this but for
expert advice from qualified
instructors youre best to enrol on
a bike maintenance course.
Just as cycling has grown in
popularity so has the number of
courses on offer, with many bike
shops and organisations offering
courses from beginner level up to
advanced, as well as women-only
ones. Among them is national
cycling charity the CTC, which has
championed the cause of cycling
for well over a century and offers a
number of day-long maintenance
courses. I opted for Roadside
Maintenance, which promised to
cover the fundamentals of bike
maintenance and safety, and
everything you can do with a
multitool. Despite riding almost
daily during the week, doing a
32-mile return commute, my
maintenance skills were poor, all
too often relying on my husband to
check over the basics and fix any
issues, so this seemed like the
level I needed. Even if I already
knew some of it I felt there was no
harm in having it reinforced by
someone who really knows what
theyre doing.
My trainer for the day was Sally
Berry. Having always loved the
outdoors, Sally rediscovered her
love of cycling six years ago at the
age of 54.
I hadnt ridden a bike since my
childhood, but somehow, very
reluctantly, I allowed myself to be
talked into doing a CTC Trail
Leader course so I could take
groups of school children cycling.
It was the best thing I could ever
have done. I got fitter, I discovered
a whole new and fun activity that I
could do anytime, anywhere, and I
love the freedom cycling brings.
However, I didnt know the
first thing about fixing my bike and
it bothered me. So I signed up for
the CTC Trailside Maintenance
course, stayed on for part of the
second day, which was the
advanced level, because I got
hooked, bought a few tools and
NEW RIDERS GUIDE
got stuck in. Now I run CTC

maintenance courses too.
Over tea and biscuits at Young
Bristol, our venue for the day, Sally
outlined the days itinerary,
clarifying the meaning of various
terms and asking if there was
anything else Id like to cover.
While I was happy with the
programme, Sally stressed that all
the CTC maintenance courses are
flexible and can be altered to suit
the needs of the participants. She
also said she could adapt the
programme at any point should it
become clear that it was too basic
for my skill level. I was confident it
wouldnt be!
Safety first
The first session saw Sally take
me through the M-check. Its
designed to be a quick and easy
way to make sure your bike is safe
to ride, which when you get used to
it, wont take longer than a few
minutes to do. Its so called
because it involves following an M
shape to check five points of your
bike. Starting with the front wheel
you progress to the handlebars,
then to the frame, followed by the
seat and seatpost until you finish
with the back wheel. Sally
explained that you should aim to
do this every two weeks as a
minimum, especially if you ride
most days. Before every ride she
advised me to check the steering,
the brakes, the air in the tyres and
the quick release skewers.
The only slight issue I noticed
with my bike was the left brake
Above Theres
more to keeping
your bike pristine
than a bucket
of soapy water
Below Make
careful lube
choice to match
the conditions
you ride in
lever was pulling back further than

the right one and coming quite
close to the handlebar. While youd
normally make any required
adjustments at the end of the
M-check, Sally said wed revisit the
issue later when we were looking
closer at brakes. Otherwise my bike
seemed in good order.
Clean machine
For the next session we went
outside so I could be taken through
the process of cleaning and lubing
my bike. While removing a bit of
dirt from your bike and sticking a
few drops of oil on the chain might
not seem like rocket science, as
Sally stressed, its a very important
part of bike maintenance, because
if you do it regularly you decrease
wear and tear and therefore
your chances of encountering
mechanical failures. It also needs
to be done correctly for it to be
effective, especially when mud and
grime are involved, following three
stages: wash, degrease, lubricate.
With a bucket of hot, soapy water
and the products Sally provided I
set about de-gunking the frame
and drivetrain. Sally explained why
each stage is necessary and the
importance of picking the correct
lube according to the riding
conditions. While I already had a
good idea of how to clean my bike
properly, having someone talk me
through what I was doing and why
gave a relatively simple task a
whole new meaning and

hammered home the need to do it.
Brake time
With a sparkling bike we went back
into the warmth to take a closer
look at brakes. Sally said that along
with mending punctures and
repairing chains, the need to adjust
your brakes is one of the main
issues youre likely to encounter
while out on the bike. As brake
pads and blocks wear, the slack can
be taken up by the barrel adjusters.
Without doing this, the brake
levers pull back to become close
to or even touch the handlebar,
preventing effective stopping.
As mentioned, this was
something Id encountered with
my left brake during the M-check
so I was shown how to use the
barrel adjusters to change the lever
position. Winding out the barrel
adjuster moves the lever further
away from the handlebar (in other
words, tightens it which seems
confusingly counter-intuitive) and
winding it in moves the lever
towards the handlebar. Having the
lever at the correct position is
important, not only for safety but
comfort and braking power. As
Sally explained, some people who
have small hands might need the
lever fairly close in to the bar, so
allowance has to be made if this is
an issue for you.
We also looked at block and pad
adjustment, centring the brakes
MAINTENANCE
NEW RIDERS GUIDE
22/23
around the wheels. I even got to fit

a new brake cable on a bike Sally
and her husband were in the
process of doing up.
A bit shifty
If you ever have problems with
your chain jumping to the wrong
cog when shifting gears or making
a strange clicking sound when in a
certain gear then its possible that
your gears need indexing. To me
its always sounded like a job for a
skilled mechanic only but it is in
fact relatively straight forward.
The art is in having a deft touch
to make only slight adjustments at
a time and a good ear to hear if the
chain sounds like its skipping or
running smoothly and ignoring
the limit screws, which Sally said a
lot of people use despite having
nothing to do with indexing.
Theyre purely for stopping the
chain jumping off at either the top
or bottom of the cassette.
Chain gang
In the event
of multiple
punctures you
need to know how
to fix, not just
replace, tubes
After lunch I was taken through

the process of replacing a chain.
Using a chain wear indicator is a
great way to know when to fix a
new chain to your bike and avoid it
breaking on a ride. But whether
youve spotted early enough that
you need a new chain or you should
suffer a chain break when out on
your bike knowing how to fix/
replace one is a very useful skill. To
mend a chain, a link needs to be
removed, which can be done with
the help of a simple chain breaker
tool, and the chain rejoining.
I practiced doing this on an old
chain Sally had in her stash. I then
fixed a new chain to the bike Id
help put the brake cable on. We
joined this chain together using a
powerlink, which is an individual
link made up of two pieces, each
one a plate with a rivet attached.
Using one of these makes taking a
chain on and off a lot easier and
means you can remove a chain
to clean it.
Feeling deflated
Our final focus of the day was on
fixing a flat tyre. While replacing a
punctured inner tube with a new
one is much easier and quicker
than mending it, as Sally pointed
out, there are times when you can
WHILE A SMOOTH-RUNNING
DRIVETRAIN ISNT AS ROMANTIC
AS ROLLING COUNTRYSIDE,
ITS STILL A JOY TO BEHOLD
get multiple flats on a ride (she
used the example of riding by a
hawthorn hedge thats been
recently cut) and you simply
dont have enough inner tubes to
cope. She therefore took me
through the process of removing
a wheel and inner tube, locating
the hole and fixing a patch over it,
and then replacing the inner tube
and wheel.
Like the cleaning and lubing,
this was a job I was already
reasonably confident of being able
to handle but going through the
process with Sallys expert
guidance helped to reaffirm what I
should be doing and increase my
confidence that Id be able to cope
on my own out on the roadside.
Testing, testing
correctly, which for someone with

a poor memory is surely a sign of
good teaching Id absorbed what
Id been told!
After such a full and intensive
day that had clearly been worth
it I left to ride the 16 miles home
safe in the knowledge that should
my bike fail me in some way I was
in a much better place to know
how to fix it. Not only is this
reassuring but its also given
me a greater appreciation of
how my bike works, and the
desire to care for it better. Sally
said its easy to get geeky about
maintenance as she found out
herself and I can see why, as
while a smooth-running drivetrain
isnt as romantic as rolling
countryside, its still a joy
to behold.
With my head whirring from all

the new skills Id learned Sally did
a quick review of the days key
points. I largely answered
To find out more about the CTC

and the courses on offer head to
www.ctc.org.uk/training
8 STEP
PUNCTURE
REPAIR
THIS IS THE FIRST JOB THAT ANY AND EVERY CYCLIST SHOULD LEARN HOW TO
DO PROPERLY SAVING YOU TIME, MONEY AND POTENTIALLY PREVENTING
YOU HAVING TO TAKE A LONG WALK HOME
ILLUST R AT IONS | BEN FOX A L L
Remove the tyre

Deflate the tyre fully, then insert
two tyre levers approximately 5cm
apart under the bead of the tyre at
the point opposite the valve, and carefully
lever the bead over the rim. Use the tyre
levers to lever the rest of the bead off
around the wheel. Keep the inner tube
orientated in the same direction as the
wheel this will help you to locate any
sharp objects left in the tyre.
Locate the puncture

With the inner tube removed,
pump air into the tube and either
listen for escaping air or try to
feel it on your cheek/lips as you pass the
tube past your face. If the exact location
of the puncture isnt obvious, a bit of
water or spit in the general area should
help you to locate it. Mark the position if
possible with a ballpoint pen and clean
and roughen the tube ready for repair.
A proper fix
If you have the opportunity its
always worth spending the time
doing a full inner tube repair, as
this should be the most reliable fix in the
long run if done properly. Locate the
puncture, clean and roughen the area
surrounding the puncture, smoothing any
moulding marks. Apply a thin layer of
vulcanising solution, and spread around
with your finger. Allow to dry.
WORKSHOP
Fully repaired
Choose an appropriately sized
patch and remove the foil backing.
Add a second thin layer of
vulcanising solution to the tube and
inflate a little. Before the solution has
completely dried, apply the patch. Press
to make sure adhesion is complete, and
dust with chalk or talc or even road dust
if this is all thats available to prevent
the inner tube from sticking to the tyre.
Refit the tyre
24/25
NEW RIDERS GUIDE
A quick fix
Put the bead back in the rim,

starting at the valve and working
around the circumference, using
your thumbs to push the bead over the
rim. Tyre levers help to get the last
section in if its a tight fit, but ensure you
dont trap the tube between tyre and rim,
which can result in pinch punctures.
Pushing the bead into the centre of the
rim bed helps gain extra bead flexibility.
If youre stuck by the roadside in

the rain, the full repair can be
time-consuming. This is where a
spare inner tube, or instant patches
such as Parks Super Patches, 2.99 can
offer a quick solution, preventing the
need for vulcanising solution and its
drying time. Roughen the area around the
puncture, remove the patchs backing,
press it onto the tube and refit as normal.
PUNCTURE
IDENTIFICATION
Slow punctures
Small and slow punctures can
quickly be fixed by adding a CO2
powered foam to the inner tube
(such as Hutchinsons FastAir, 9.99).
Engage the foam canister over the valve
and press go. CO2 pushes hole-filling
foam into the tube while simultaneously
inflating the tube to a reasonable pressure
you may need to top up the tube with a
pump, but this should get you home.
QUICK
FIX TIPS
Remove the tyre

Regularly check the tyre tread
and sidewalls for any signs of
damage, cracking or wear, and
replace the tyre if necessary. Remove
any embedded stones or glass and fill
the hole with a little superglue. Carefully
rub a finger inside the tyre to find
protruding items, or use some cotton
wool, which will snag on pointy items,
helping you to locate them.
Tools required
Materials required
Take your time
Tyre levers, pump (ideally

a track pump with gauge
at home), ballpoint pen
Patch kit (instant

patches are handy for
roadside repairs)
10-15 minutes
Two small holes in a tube placed fairly

close together indicate a pinch puncture
(bottom photo). This is caused by the tube
getting trapped between the tyre and the
rim when riding over a sharp object. Tyres
not inflated hard enough are a frequent
cause of this. Check that the tyres sidewall
isnt cut. If it is, you may need to use an
emergency repair to make a tyre boot.
A hole on the inner side of the tube
indicates the puncture was caused by a
spoke head (top photo). Check around the
inside of the rim to ensure the rim tape
covers the spoke holes and no spoke end
protrudes above the inner surface of the
rim. If it does it will need filing down. A
less common cause of a puncture is a
rough edge to the valve hole rim. The
puncture will be at the base of the valve
and will not be repairable.
GET SET
FOR A
SPORTIVE
WHETHER YOURE NEW TO CYCLING OR REKINDLING YOUR INTEREST, IF YOUVE
NEVER CYCLED A SPORTIVE YOURE IN FOR A TREAT, IF YOURE PREPARED...
PHOTOS | A NDY MCC A NDLISH
ne of the best ways to keep

motivated and stick with your new
found/refound love of riding is to
set a target. One of the simplest
things for a cyclist to target is a
significant distance. Depending on
your fitness levels, that can be anything
from 30 up to 100 miles anything that
you realistically believe you can achieve in
a set amount of time.
Whether you opt to ride your goal
distance on your own (we wouldnt
recommend it), enter a massparticipation sportive or take part in a
charity challenge like the British Heart
Foundations annual London to Brighton
ride, one things for sure youll need to

train. Its a good job then that we have a
training schedule especially for you.
Read our advice and follow our plans to
be ready to ride a 40 to 80-mile event in
just three months.
First things first, though if youve
never used a training plan before then
dont be frightened. This plan is a guide
and doesnt have to be followed to the
letter. If you cant ride in the morning as
we suggest from time to time, or you cant
hit the hills when we advise it, swap things
around thats real life. That said, youve
got to have rules, so here are some training
truisms you need to follow
TRAINING PLAN
NEW RIDERS GUIDE
26/27
improve your sportive finishing

time, but it doesnt necessarily
come easily and there are tactics
to learn. Practise in regular group
rides or during club runs. The more
comfortable you are riding in close
formation, the more time you
can save.
MUSCLE POWER
SET YOUR GOAL

First off, choose your event. Be
realistic. If you took up cycling only a
couple of months ago, dont enter a
monster slog through the French
Alps. Challenging, yes. Sensible, no.
Think about exactly what you want to
achieve on your ride. Are you
completing, competing or
conquering? Again, be reasonable.
Set an impossible aim and youll
soon lose motivation. Once you have
your goal sorted, write it down and
put it in your wallet, next to your
computer, on the dashboard or fridge
door, anywhere that youll see it
often enough to keep you focused.
GET YOUR LONG RIDES IN

We all miss occasional planned rides,
but even if you cant do high mileage
outings all the time, dont miss your
long rides at the heart of your
training theyre vital. Bad weather?
Go out anyway; you could get bad
weather on event day. Bikes broken?
Fix it, or get your bike shop to sort it
and learn how you couldve solved
the problem. Long rides are when
your body gets used to handling the
demands youll face on the big day;
they help you learn to draw on your
fuel reserves more efficiently, and
LONG RIDES ARE WHEN

YOUR BODY GETS USED
TO HANDLING THE
DEMANDS YOULL FACE
ON THE BIG DAY
Lactic acid is produced when your

body breaks down carbohydrate for
fuel, resulting in lactate in your
blood that affects your muscles
performance. Paying attention at the
back? All you really need to know is
that the point at which lactate starts
to accumulate faster than you can
disperse it is your lactate threshold
(LT), and raising this will help you
ride a faster sportive. Working on
your power is important too, both for
increasing the amount of force you
can put into every pedal stroke and
also for increasing your endurance.
We recommend regular high
intensity rides devoted to LT and
strength work. Get these sessions
in and youll be rewarded on the
big day.
HAVE A REST
You dont get fitter when youre
riding, you get fitter when you
recover afterwards. This is why you
need to have at least one day without
exercise every week, or more if you
over-stretch yourself, plus an easy
week each month.
DRINK ENOUGH
get your head prepared for long,
demanding efforts.
DEVELOP TECHNIQUE
Get used to incorporating technique
work into your general rides as well
as devoting regular sessions to
improving your skills. Find a long,
winding hill and time yourself down
it over several runs, looking to get
quicker by laying off the brakes,
leaning into the corners and learning
when to put the power back on. Be
careful though do this with a riding
mate and only on quiet roads where
you can easily see any approaching
traffic. And dont think that you can
make up for poor climbing just by
flying downhill.
Sheltering from the wind in a
group saves you masses of power
output from your legs and will
Above Follow
our training plan
advice to fly
through your
first sportive
Below Set a
realistic goal
for your first
event and stay
focused on it
You might have read that you should

drink 400-900ml of fluid an hour
while riding, but thats a myth. Fluid
replacement varies according to your
personal sweat levels. Work out
precisely what you need at varying
intensities and in different weather
conditions by following this process
over several rides:
Weigh yourself while
undressed, before putting on your
cycle kit. As an example, suppose
your weight is 75kg.
WEEK 4
WEEK 5
WEEK 6
NEW RIDERS GUIDE
28/29
TRAINING PLAN
WEEKS 13
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
Check your bike

and kit over,
making sure
everything is
ready for you to
begin riding
tomorrow.
1hr ride
In the morning
ideally, no
breakfast before
(exercising fasted
is a means of
encouraging
the use of more
stored fat as
fuel), at moderate
Zone 1 effort,
indoors or on
moderate terrain.
1hr ride
Evening ride over
moderate terrain,
ideally with a few
mates or a club so
you can practise
riding in a group.
Two short
sessions, if
possible,
30-40mins am
and pm. Do the
morning ride
fasted, and the
evening ride with
8sec fast efforts
every 5mins.
REST
Endurance
30-40 per cent of
event distance on
a moderate to
rolling course.
Stay in Zone 1
more than 75 per
cent of ride time.
Saturday ride if it
was missed.
Otherwise, a 1hr
ride concentrating
on a higher than
normal cadence.
Recovery day
Ideally, get a
massage or at
least perform
self-massage of
your leg muscles,
especially your
quads.
1hr ride
In the morning
ideally, fasted,
at moderate
Zone 1 effort,
indoors or on
moderate
terrain.
1hr 30 ride
Evening ride,
mainly low Zone
2, but include the
longest hills you
can find for a
total of 30mins
controlled hard
climbing work.
Choice day
Work on
your area of
weakness. You
could do extra
morning fasted
work up to 2hrs.
REST
Endurance
40-50 per cent
of event distance
on a moderate to
rolling course.
Stay in Zone 1
more than 75 per
cent of ride time.
Saturday ride if it
was missed.
Otherwise, 1hr
ride in a bigger
than normal gear
(cadence of
50-60rpm),
pushing effort on
inclines for the
middle 20mins.
REST
1hr ride
In the morning
ideally, fasted, at
top of Zone 1
effort, indoors or
on moderate
terrain.
1hr ride
Evening ride with
hilly terrain,
working out a
Zone 2 pace to
stay smooth with
controlled
breathing.
Choice day
Work on your area
of weakness. You
could do some
extra morning
fasted work up
to 1hr 30.
REST
Endurance
50-60 per cent of
event distance on
a moderate to
rolling course.
Stay in Zone 1
more than 75 per
cent of ride time.
Saturday ride if it
was missed, or 1hr
in a bigger than
normal gear
(50-60rpm),
pushing on
inclines for
middle 20mins.
TRAINING PLAN
WEEKS 46
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
REST
45mins ride
In the morning
ideally, fasted,
at moderate
Zone 1 effort,
indoors or on
moderate terrain.
1hr ride
Work on an area
of weakness:
could be climbing,
descending,
cornering or
group riding.
REST
REST
Endurance
No more than 25
per cent of event
distance on a
moderate to
rolling course.
Stay in Zone 1
more than 90 per
cent of ride time.
Saturday ride if it
was missed.
Otherwise, 1hr of
light spinning
with 8sec efforts
every 6mins.
1-1hr 30 light
spin on rollers/
turbo or flat
terrain (low Zone
1), legs feeling
no pressure.
2hr ride
In the morning
ideally, fasted, at
moderate Zone 1
effort, indoors
or on moderate
terrain outdoors.
1hr 30 ride
Evening ride,
intervals of
5-8mins (equal
work and
recovery) in mid
Zone 2, or chain
gang; aim for
30-45mins of
hard work.
As Tuesday
You can have
two shorter
sessions on this
day as an option
1hr morning
and evening.
Recovery day
Optional 1hr light
spin, low Zone 1,
on rollers or flat
terrain, legs
feeling no
pressure.
Endurance
60 per cent of
event distance
on a hilly course.
Stay in Zone 1 on
flats and low to
mid Zone 2 on
hills. Include
2x20min climbs
if possible.
Saturday ride if it
was missed.
Otherwise, 1hr 30
ride in big gear,
pushing on
inclines for
the middle
40min section.
1hr ride
Morning or
evening ride;
Zone 1, either
indoors or on
moderate terrain.
1hr 30 ride
In the morning
ideally, fasted
at moderate
Zone 1 effort,
indoors or on
moderate terrain.
1hr 30 ride
Evening ride, low
Zone 2 on the
longest climbs
you can find
for a total of
30mins hard
climbing work.
Choice day
Work on an area
of weakness; you
could do some
extra morning
fasted work up
to 2hrs.
Recovery day
Optional 1hr light
spin, low Zone 1,
on rollers or flat
terrain, legs
feeling no
pressure.
Endurance
70 per cent of
event distance on
a hilly course.
Stay in Zone 1
on flats and low
to mid Zone 2
on hills.
Saturday ride
if missed.
Otherwise, 2hrs
with speed
practice on
descents and
5-6 1min Zone
3 efforts.
WEEK 3
WEEK 2
WEEK 1
TRAINING PLAN.
Get bike
mechanics sorted,
kit organised,
rides planned
and nutrition
bought/organised.
WEEK 7
WEEKS 79
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
Recovery day
Optional 1hr light
spin, low Zone 1,
on rollers/turbo or
flat terrain, with
legs feeling
no pressure.
Light day
Its your choice
of training but
bear in mind
whats coming up
in tomorrows
session.
2hr ride
Evening ride,
intervals of
10mins (equal
work and
recovery) in
mid Zone 2, or
chain gang; aim
for 50-70mins
of hard work.
Choice day
Work on an area
of weakness; you
could do some
extra morning
fasted work up
to 2hrs.
REST
Endurance
60-75 per cent of
event distance on
the hilliest course
you can find. Stay
in upper Zone 1
on flats and
include
40-60mins
of Zone 2 work
on hills.
Saturday ride if it
was missed.
Otherwise, 2hr
ride with speed
practice on the
descents for the
middle 40mins.
REST
1hr ride
In the morning
ideally, fasted
at moderate
Zone 1 effort,
indoors or on
moderate
terrain.
1hr ride
In the morning
ideally, fasted
at moderate
Zone 1 effort,
indoors or on
moderate terrain.
REST
REST
Endurance
40 per cent of
event distance
on flat terrain,
staying in low to
mid Zone 1.
Saturday ride if it
was missed.
Otherwise, 1hr
light spin with
8sec efforts
every 6mins.
REST
Bonus 45-60min
morning ride.
Ride fasted and
keep in moderate
Zone 1, either
indoors or on
moderate terrain.
1hr ride
Evening ride with
a few mates or a
cycle club. Aim for
moderate terrain
and work on your
group riding skills.
Two sessions,
30-40mins
morning and
evening. Morning
ride fasted,
evening ride with
8sec fast efforts
every 5mins.
REST
Endurance
50 per cent of
event distance on
a hilly course.
Stay in Zone 1 on
flats and low to
mid Zone 2 on
the hills.
Saturday ride if
it was missed.
Otherwise, 1hr
20mins ride in
a big gear
pushing on the
inclines for middle
40min section.
TRAINING PLAN
WEEKS 1012
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
Recovery day
Ideally, get a
massage or
perform a
self-massage.
A 30min light
spin is optional
on rollers or
flat terrain.
1hr ride, optional.

In the morning,
fasted, at
moderate Zone 1
effort, indoors or
on moderate
terrain.
1hr 30 ride
Low Zone 2, on
the longest climbs
you can find for a
total of 30mins of
controlled, hard
climbing work.
Choice day
Work on an area
you know is
weakest; you
could do some
extra morning
fasted work up
to 2hrs.
REST
Endurance
40 per cent event
distance on the
hilliest terrain you
can find, or ride a
sportive. Stay in
upper Zone 1 on
flats and Zone 2
on hills.
Saturday ride if
you missed it.
Otherwise, a 1hr
30 ride with
descending at
speed practice and
5-6 1min efforts
in Zone 3 with a
2-3min spin
recovery in
between.
Two short
sessions,
30-40mins am
and pm. Do the
morning ride
fasted and the
evening ride with
an 8sec fast
effort every
5mins.
1hr ride on hilly

terrain, climbing
at Zone 2 pace,
staying smooth
and relaxed
throughout.
REST
REST
Endurance
30-40 per cent
event distance
on a moderate to
rolling course.
Stay in Zone
1 for at least
75 per cent of
the time.
Saturday ride if
you missed it.
Otherwise, do a
1hr 20 ride,
practising
descending at
speed for 30mins.
1hr ride
With some top of
Zone 1 3-5min
climbs on
moderate terrain.
Aim for 30mins of
hard work.
1hr ride
Work on an area
of weakness
perhaps climbing,
descending or
feeding while in
the saddle.
1hr light spin with

8sec efforts every
6mins to test your
legs responses.
No more; its time
to store glycogen.
REST
Some riders like a

light spin the day
before an event to
keep their legs
loose, others dont
its your choice.
GOAL EVENT
WEEK 11
WEEK 10
WEEK 9
WEEK 8
TRAINING PLAN
WEEK 12
REST
30/31
On your return, note the

amount that you drank and ate
during your ride. Well say it was
1500ml, which weighs 1.5kg, and
three gels of 0.06kg each, so youve
taken a total of 1.68kg on board.
Before showering, eating or
drinking, dry yourself and weigh
again. Well say its now 73.2kg.
Subtract the second weight
from the first to get your bodyweight
change: 75 - 73.2 = 1.8kg
Add the weight of the food to
this to get your total loss: 1.8 + 1.68
= 3.48kg
Estimate any bathroom stops
because this will mean losses are
higher.
Divide total losses by the hours
spent riding: 3.48 3hrs = 1.16kg lost
per hour.
You wont get to the end of your
training ride or event at the same
weight as you started, but you should
eat and drink enough to be within
1-2kg. Never be more than 2-3 per
cent down in mass unless its a ride
where you really cant get adequate
fuel down.
BECOME FUEL EFFICIENT

You need to drink when you ride to
replace the water you sweat and
breathe out, but for longer training
rides and during the event drinks will
help provide fuel. Suffering a bonk
when your body cant get the
energy it needs is bad news when
youve got two or three climbs left
to ride.
For both training and the big ride,
try a drink thats 5-7 per cent
PACING IS CRUCIAL IN
TRAINING AND ON THE
BIG DAY. THE MAIN
TRICK IS TO CLIMB AT
AN INTENSITY THAT
WONT BLOW YOUR LEGS
Above Staying
hydrated is vital,
so stock your
bottles with
drinks you
can stomach
Above right
Dont let bad
weather keep
you indoors,
keep up the long
rides
carbohydrate. This is an isotonic

level, meaning that the drink
contains the same concentration of
dissolved particles as your body
fluids, so will be absorbed fast. Some
people prefer a hypotonic drink
one with a carb level of less than 5
per cent. The only way to find out
whats right for you is by
experimenting in training. Also,
choose a drink that contains
electrolytes, particularly sodium.
This speeds up the delivery of fluid to
your body, so is especially important
on longer rides. Finally, its key to go
for a drink that you really enjoy the
taste of, that way youre far more
likely to drink enough.
Drink plenty before you go out on
your bike so that you start off fully
hydrated, and continue drinking
afterwards a little and often to aid
recovery. If youve trained for over
an hour, make it a carb drink. Dont
wait until you feel really thirsty
thats a bad gauge of need.
You should consume at least 1g of
carbohydrate per kilogram of
bodyweight for every hour that
youre riding. This can be in the

form of carb-electrolyte drinks, gels,
bars, solid food, or a mix of these.
Your needs could be different from
the norm so its important to
experiment in training. That way
youll be able to tell exactly what you
can tolerate and what you need with
you on the day. If riding an event,
find out what food and drink will be
available and at what points along
the route, and see if it suits you. If
you cant stomach the energy drink
on offer, for example, take your own.
If you get sick of sweet stuff, check
therell be something savoury for
you to grab, or carry it with you.
AVOID INJURY
When you step up the amount of
riding you do youll be adding
stresses and strains on your body.
You might be tempted to ignore
niggles in order to stick with the
programme. Dont! Riding through
the pain is a great way to make minor
problems major. If you get injured,
take it seriously. Take time off the
bike or do some cross-training, and
if its a biomechanical problem have
your riding position looked at by an
expert. If necessary, visit a health
care professional. Whatever you do,
dont ignore a potential injury.
PACE YOURSELF
Pacing is crucial in training and on
the big day, but its hard to get right.
The main trick is to climb at an
intensity that wont blow your legs.
This comes with experience but if
youve trained by heart rate or power
then you should have a good idea of
what you can sustain. If you dont
know how hard you should be
working, dont go above 85 per cent
of your max heart rate on even the
steepest hills or youll dip too far into
your glycogen stores. Remember,
you have limited glycogen and can
never eat enough to make up for
going too hard too soon.
RIDING
INTO THE
UNKNOWN
WITH THE TRAINING DONE, ITS TIME TO LINE UP FOR YOUR DEBUT SPORTIVE.
WE GET THE LOWDOWN ON A NEW RIDERS EXPERIENCE OF VELOTHON WALES
W O R D S | E M I LY P A D D O C K
MY FIRST SPORTIVE
I got my first road bike last

autumn because I wanted a
fun way to keep fit. My boyfriend
cycles so I thought it was
something we could do together. I
never planned to do a big event but
a friend who cycles asked if I
wanted to take part in Velothon
Wales with her to raise money for a
charity she supports, so I thought
Id have a go.
Gradually I started getting a bit
fitter and building up the miles I
could cover. Increasing my
distance was okay, but I didnt
enjoy riding up hills. In the
months before the event I noticed
myself getting stronger but I still
felt demoralized sometimes
because it never felt like it was
getting any easier. I kept positive
because I did enjoy my rides and
noticed I was able to ride for longer
without feeling sore the next day.
For Velothon Wales, I opted to
do the 30-mile route and with the
big day six weeks away, I was riding
up to 22 miles in one go. Id even
managed some hills, so I felt good
about my progress. Frustratingly, I
fell ill three weeks before the event
so wasnt able to ride for a lot of
that time. My boyfriend thought I
should pull out but I was
determined to take part and
complete the course, even if it
made me feel worse!
Bring on the Velothon

On the morning of the event I was
up early and thought Id be
nervous but I was so ill and tired
that I actually felt quite calm. By
the time I met my friend at the
start line, I was excited about
setting off. The first 15 miles were
NEW RIDERS GUIDE
32/33
You may feel the

pain during the
ride but itll all
be worth it
A souvenir to
be proud of the sportives
finishers medals
flat and I felt comfortable, but then

the hills came and that all
changed. At the bottom of the first
big hill I could see people getting
off their bikes, which made me feel
apprehensive, but I knew I had to
continue. I tackled everything,
even though it was hard at the
time, and finished the course. I
rode up the whole
of Caerphilly
Mountain, but it
was tough. I cried
at the top!
My rookie
mistake was
thinking that I was
closer to the finish
GIVE YOURSELF TIME TO

PREPARE AND REMEMBER
THAT YOU CAN RIDE AT YOUR
OWN PACE
than I was, and that the rest of the

ride was all down hill. That was
psychologically draining. Im
pleased with myself for doing it
because it was a big step into the
unknown and a test of my body
and riding. Even though it was
hard at times, I enjoyed it and was
pleased with my achievement.
If youve only recently taken
up cycling and are considering
entering a sportive, Id say take on
the challenge. Give yourself time
to prepare and remember that you
can ride at your own pace. Riding
with so many other people on nice
roads was a great experience, and
something Ill be repeating.
NEW RIDERS GUIDE
BEST EVENTS FOR NEW RIDERS
NOW
GET OUT
THERE!
NOW YOU CAN PUT ALL OUR TRAINING ADVICE INTO PRACTICE
WITH A SHOT AT 10 OF THE BEST EVENTS FOR BEGINNERS TO
GET INVOLVED IN
Macmillan Cycletta
June-September 2015
This women-only series now has six
events spread across the summer. They
are as easy or difficult as you want to
make them, with all events (apart from
the 42km sportive at the Dragon Ride)
having a 20km option. Several, including
the New Forest event, go up to 150km.
The next event takes place from Loseley
Park, Surrey on 6 September.
www.humanrace.co.uk
Sky Ride
6 September, 2015
This 50-mile route takes you from
Glasgow to Edinburgh, with transport
back for an additional 19 on top of the
28 entry fee. It uses a combination of
closed roads, quiet lanes and bike paths,
and with refreshment stops every 10
miles its a suitable target for those new
to the game.
www.pedalforscotland.org
This is one of the best value and most

comprehensive sportive series in Britain.
The events are scattered all round the
country, all year round and offer routes
of varying difficulty for total beginners
right through to accomplished riders.
www.evansrideit.com
Manchester 100
13 September 2015
Raising money for local cancer hospital
The Christie, this ride from Manchesters
Wythenshawe Park takes in the flat
lanes of Cheshire south of the city. There
are 100km and 100-mile options, but
given the lack of climbing involved the
latter is an achievable option for a cyclist
looking to tackle their first century.
www.bike-events.co.uk
LEtape London
RideLondon FreeCycle
27 September 2015
1 August 2015
The sister event to the Maserati Tour of

Yorkshire again partners with Tour de
France organiser ASO. Beginners should
be looking at the 42-mile short route,
A record 70,000 cyclists of all abilities

are expected to take advantage of an
eight-mile traffic-free loop in central
N E W R I D E R S S G GU UI DI DE E / / / C CY YC CL LI NI NG G P PL LU US S
4 October, 2015
By this point in the season you might
have become more adventurous in
your riding, which makes this sportive
a good way to see it out. Based out of
Cirencester College, it has 55, 100 and
160km options, with the positioning of
the cut-off points allowing you to make
a late decision as to which one you take.
www.veloevents.co.uk
Tour of Flanders sportive

April 2016
From short loops to
completing your
first century,
there's an event
out there for you...
Many of the major European sportives

dont exactly scream beginner but the
Ronde is an exception. What youll
notice among the 15,000-plus rider field
is what a family occasion this is for the
Belgians, particularly on the 71km route.
You might need to unclip and walk on
the fearsome Koppenberg climb but
otherwise this makes a nice introduction
to Continental cycling.
www.sport.be
Great Manchester Cycle

June 2016
Pedal for Scotland:

The Classic Challenge
Skys investment in cycling draws the

headlines through Team Sky, which
means its valuable grassroots work often
goes under the radar. Sky Rides events
are held all year round, right across the
country and include traffic-free events,
guided rides from trained leaders and
social rides from the Sky Ride network.
Remaining rides for 2015 can be found
in cities including Manchester,
Southampton, Ipswich and York.
www.goskyride.com
All year round
Santini Cotswold Autumn Classic
London this August. The route passes

through the Strand and Lincoln Inn
Fields, as well as landmarks including
Buckingham Palace and St Pauls
Cathedral. You can ride it at your leisure,
with six festival zones scattered along
the route that offer bike-based
entertainment such as stunt cyclists,
bike polo and a BMX zone, as well as a
picnic area.
www.prudentialridelondon.co.uk
All year round
Evans Ride It!
which begins and ends with a lap of the

London Olympic Velopark.
www.humanrace.co.uk
Get a taste of
Continental cobbles
on Belgiums Tour
of Flanders sportive
This is another chance to enjoy some

closed-road city centre riding, but is
more of a test than RideLondons
FreeCycle. The 13-mile loop begins in
the Etihad Campus of Manchester City
Football Club and can be ridden up to
four times. The Mancunian Way, a
famous stretch of Manchester road
usually only open to motorists, will
become a cyclists paradise for the day.
www.greatrun.org
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