Join us for Cycle Vision 2015 on 19th & 20th October, a brand showcase that promises to be bigger and better than ever before. A new larger show area, multiple dates, guest speaker Mary Portas, and the inaugural Zyro Independent Retailer GUEST SPEAKER MARY PORTAS & THE ZYRO IBD RETAILER AWARDS ZYRO BRAND SHOWCASE JOIN US FOR THE BIGGER & BETTER 19th - 20th OCTOBER 2015 AT VINOPOLIS LONDON AUGUST 2015 ISSUE 115 BIKEBIZ.COM FOR EVERYONE IN THE BIKE BUSINESS
Transcript
Join us for Cycle Vision 2015 on 19th & 20th October,
a brand showcase that promises to be bigger and better
than ever before. A new larger show area, multiple dates,
guest speaker Mary Portas, and the inaugural Zyro Independent
Retailer
G U E S T S P E A K E R
MARY PORTAS& T H E Z Y R O I B D
R E TA I L E RA WA R D S
Z Y R O B R A N D S H O W C A S E
JO IN US FOR THE B IGGER & BETTER
19th - 20th OCTOBER 2015A T V I N O P O L I S
L O N D O N
AU
GU
ST 2015
ISSUE 115 BIKEBIZ.COM
F O R E V E R Y O N E I N T H E B I K E B U S I N E S S
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BIKEBIZ.COM BIKEBIZ XXXXXXX XX
R E G I S T E R T O D A Y A T Z Y R O B 2 B . C O . U K / C Y C L E V I S I O N
19th - 20th O C T O B E R 2 0 1 5A T V I N O P O L I S , L O N D O N
Z Y R O B R A N D S H O W C A S E
GUEST SPEAKER: MARY PORTAS ‘EMPOWERING THE INDEPENDENT RETAILER’
looking to empower you the retailer with her foresight and unique
opportunity to listen to the highly acclaimed retail guru and ambassador
of independent retailers as she helps us to support you, our customers.
T recognising and
awarding our top UK and Irish independent Retailers. Enjoy a banquet
dinner and the opportunity to mix with other retailers, brand representatives
and Zyro staff.
INTRODUCING: THE ZYRO INDEPENDENT RETAILER AWARDS
RETAILER
AWA R D S
independent
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1 9 T H O C T O B E R 2 0 1 5
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p8–9, p13–p24, p27–28 and p48
p13Eurobike previewsBikeBiz was among a select bunch of UK cycle journos that made it to Eurobike’s new preview media days in Austria
p27Pumped up Find out how SKS turned into a €50 million company as BikeBiz is let loose in the brand’s head quarters in Sundern, Germany
p35Northern exposureBusinesses in Scotland and the North of England speak out in this month’s spotlight
p51Hub and SpokeHarlow’s social enterprise has become a focal point for locals
p67LIGHTS!Our guide to some of the latest lights for dealers to stock
p63CAMERAS!Cameras and other gadgets now available to retailers
p59AND MTBS!Some of the latest bikes and clothing built for off-roading
F O R E V E R Y O N E I N T H E B I K E B U S I N E S S
AUGUST 2015ISSUE 115 @bikebizonline | facebook.com/bikebiz
SHOWSPECTACULARIt’s new products galore and more show coverage than you can shake a mini pump at, including pre-Eurobike previews, brought to you from across the world (well, Europe and the US)…
EDITOR’SCOMMENTINVESTORS ARE STILL KEEN TO GRAB CYCLING ASSETSLIKE DISTRIBUTOR’S WAREHOUSES and bike shop-floors, space in a magazine can disappear very quickly indeed. Before you know it you’ve had to turn down umpteen requests for features and refuse untold numbers of fine ideas for articles from your colleagues. And then you realise you forgot to find space to talk about some of the big stories of the month, like the swathe of big name acquisitions we have seen in the first half of 2015.
Going into the economic downturn, wise sages said the bike trade was bound to see an upswing in the number of takeovers. They were right, but now – supposedly in the full swing of recovery – the buy outs
continue apace and they are not just low profile ones either. The UK’s
biggest specialist bike shop chains – Evans Cycles (in May) and Cycle Surgery (in June) – have both being snapped up by
new investors. Then there are key brands changing hands, like Santa Cruz last month, Bergamont in June and 3T in March. And new tech firms like Recon have been snapped up (by Intel) while Cycling Weekly publisher Time Inc bought UK
Cycling Events, as a hint to where they might be
branching out into. As another wise sage
has said: “Who next?” One thing beyond question,
happily, is that brands in the bike biz are still setting investor’s hearts a-flutter. [email protected]
Bicycle Association joins other sponsors at British Cycling’s Partner Day
PAUL STEWART, president of the Bicycle Association, recently joined other sponsors of British Cycling at a Partner Day held at the Manchester City Academy Stadium. The Bicycle Association is a sponsor of British Cycling’s Go-Ride programme for children. The last Partner Day was held in 2011.
The sponsors present included execs from Sky, Cervélo, Fiat, Evans Cycles, CNP and Retül, many of whom had started the day with a ride on the Phillips Park mountain bike trail, next to the Manchester Velodrome.
Jamie Obank, British Cycling’s commercial director, said: “We see this
as a fantastic opportunity to to bring all our partners together to provide an overview of what the current landscape looks like for British Cycling and what the future holds.”
Sponsors listened to presentations from British Cycling CEO Ian Drake as well as Team GB updates from Shane Sutton, Ian Dyer and Jon Pett. Sponsors also gave presentations. Franko Vatterott, co-founder of Retül
flew in from Colorado for the Partner Day, and Dutchman Robert Reijers, CEO of Cervélo flew in from Canada. In the run-up to the Rio OIympics there will further Partner Days, with an emphasis on collaboration between the brands.
“This is a fantastic opportunity to see what the future holds for British Cycling.”Jamie Obank, British Cycling
Above; Bicycle Association president Paul Stewart, Below; Cervelo CEO Robert Reijers
ALPINESTARSAlpinestars reentered the MTB market in 2010. It features a huge line-up of apparel and protectives. Last year’s Evolution Jacket integrated back protection and water storage in a single mesh piece, and it has been joined by the Paragon Vest. This has two hose-guide options – over the shoulder or under the arm. There are three pockets with internal padding, an ergonomic back protector, and a long zipper with a chin guard.
CANNONDALECannondale is expanding its P&A line, with new grab-and-go packaging for inner tubes, side-load bottle cages, Garmin-style computer mounts and the compact Airport Carry On pump. The Slate is Cannondale’s drop-bar bike for mountain bikers.The 650b bike has a 30-millimeter Lefty fork and 42c tyres.
FABRICBritish brand Fabric – from the same stable as Charge – introduced a water bottle that doesn’t require a bottle cage, attaching with plastic studs via recessed grooves in the bottle. There have also been changes made to the saddle line-up. The Scoop has been split into separate models: the Flat, the Swallow and the Radius. They are 134mm, 142mm, and 155mm wide, respectively, and thicknesses differ too. The Cell saddle – which crunches when pressed – has honeycomb-style air pockets and is now made in three parts, with compression likened to that of a running shoe than before. The new Cell design does not yet have a claimed weight, but will retail for $99.99. The Chamber Multi-tool has 13 different tools, including a range of 2-8mm Allen keys, two flat head and Phillips head screwdrivers, a T10 and a T25.
CAMELBAKCamelbak’s Low Rider line, as the name suggests, features down-low bladders for core stability. The Skyline 10LR uses a wider than normal 3-litre bladder and places the weight of water – and gear – closer to a rider’s hips, making the pack less likely to shift from side to side. The Palos 4LR is a bike-specific hip pack. It features a drop down outer flap for quick access to tools (unlike the Skyline which has a separate tool pack). The bladder hose loops in front of the rider’s waist, and slots into a magnetic holder on the hip strap.
ENVEENVE is releasing a new SES 2.2 tubular wheel with a dimpled rim braking surface (disc brakes? pah!) that is said to perform well in both dry and wet conditions. Braking works best with ENVE brake pads made from a compound that is also said to increase braking power, especially in wet weather.
GTGT’s Zaskar celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2016, and GT is marking the milestone with a carbon hardtail frame, available in four builds, all of them at plus size. The top of the range Zaskar Carbon LTD has the 120mm RockShox Pike fork, SRAM X1 11-speed drivetrain and a RockShox Reverb Stealth dropper post. Cables are not internal, making life easier for mechanics. GT’s Sensor platform, introduced last year, features an entry-level carbon model with a budget-conscious alloy rear triangle. GT’s road/gravel range includes the Grade Alloy X, a cyclo-cross version of its Grade model – it has an alloy frame and carbon fork.
8 BIKEBIZ AUGUST BIKEBIZ.COM
PressCamp 2015 special: This month’s extensive show and new product coverage kicks off with a PressCamp 2015 report from Utah
By Carlton Reid
BICYCLING MAGAZINE has been using it at press conferences for some months. British Cycling has just started using it to stream race finishes. Soon it’ll be so normal you may struggle remember a time when video feeds from major – and minor – events weren’t beamed live to all. What is it? Periscope, a Twitter-owned video broadcast service. BikeBiz started using it at PressCamp in Utah, broadcasting product launches as they happened. Periscope is interactive – viewers can type in questions and comments, and this feature was used by British electric bike shop 50 Cycles to comment on PressCamp’s e-bike displays. Periscope’s picture quality isn’t always brilliant, but because it’s live such imperfections are accepted by users. Periscope videos disappear, Snapchat-style, after 24-hours. Videos can be watched from desktops and from smartphones alike, but it’s only smartphone app users that can ask questions, add comments and use hearts to “like” a broadcast.
All of the brand representatives present at PressCamp launched into mini-presentations when the camera started rolling.
The show coverage continues over on page 13, this time for the Eurobike Media Days.
Editorial: Saxon House, 6A, St. Andrew Street, Hertford, Hertfordshire. SG14 1JA
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NEWS
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ORBEATo celebrate the 175th anniversary of the (co-operative) company Orbea has released a sticker set featuring the brand’s logo down through the years. The very earliest and the latest logos are the best – clearly, somebody had a no-taste brain-freeze in the 1980s. The 2016 version of the brand’s top of the range time trial bike is the fifth generation for the Ordu. Orbea also displayed the Loki MTB, a new aluminium hardtail that accommodates both 27.5-plus and 29-inch wheels. With the phasing out of Asian assembly Orbea bikes are now all-Spanish (with a little bit of help from Portugal here and there).
KALIThe Tava is Kali’s most aerodynamic helmet, and is especially suited to handle crosswinds (it can save 25 seconds in a 50km race, claims the Morgan Hill-based company). But flip it over and inside you’ll find small, pliable Lego-like suction cups. This is the Bumper Fit 2.0 system, which is said to combat both rotational and low-impact concussive forces. The Tava also benefits from a Boa fit system.
KNOGKnog’s new Blinder lights all have stronger silicon straps. The Blinder MOB is an urban waterproof light and has a USB arm that’s part of the bracket and that no longer folds away. Knog is also launching a new entry-level range of battery-powered lights called POP. The lights come in ten colours and jazzy patterns, including faux carbon.
RIDLEYRidley launched the Fenix SL, an updated – and more aero – version of its endurance road bike. It comes fitted with 25mm tyres, but the frame is designed to accommodate 30mm, a feature that Ridley played on at PressCamp, with editors encouraged to ride a number of tyres sizes. Result? Fat ain’t slow.
STAN’S NO TUBESThe company’s Neo and Neo Ultimate hubs are part of a full wheelset and have been CNC-machined with ultra tight tolerances. Both hubs feature a forged 36-tooth ratchet ring. The front hubs feature tight as tight can be SealLock end caps. The Avion is Stan’s road/gravel/cyclocross wheel and will sport the Neo hubs. The rim is 41mm deep, and is built with Sapim spokes with Secure Lock aluminium nipples.
PIVOTThe new version of Pivot’s road/gravel/cross Vault features Shimano’s direct mount disc brake system and has tyre clearance for up to 38c tyres.
SMITH OPTICSThe brand has moved from Sun Valley, Idaho, to Portland, Oregon, taking most of its staff with it (Sun Valley is a beautiful location but a pig to get to). The brand’s Overtake helmet now features anti-rotation MIPS technology.
Featuring a Koroyd “honeycomb” interior instead of PES foam, the Overtake is said not to absorb as much energy as standard bike helmets do.
WAHOO FITNESSThe Sky team uses the KICKR wheel-out cycling trainer from Wahoo Fitness, but it’s pricey. The KICKR Snap is a wheel-on design, and about a third cheaper (the flywheel is also lighter, although still heavier than most competitor brands). Like KICKR, the KICKR Snap connects via ANT+ or Bluetooth 4.0 with smartphones, tablets and computers, providing power measurement and capturing ride data. It also links with Wahoo’s deep line of sensors and accessories, such as the TICKR X tracker, to record heart rate and cadence. KICKR works with interactive indoor training programmes such as Zwift and TrainerRoad.
Up Periscope!
BIKEBIZ.COM BIKEBIZ AUGUST 9
NEWS
CYCLE SHORTSLabour Senator in Ireland calls for tax-fee kids bikesIvana Bacik, a Labour senator in Ireland, has called for the minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport to consider introducing a scheme to provide tax-free kids bikes to boost school cycling levels.
Number of kids cycling to school in London has ‘doubled’Data from the Bike It Plus programme, run by Sustrans and Transport for London, suggests that levels of cycling to school in the Capital could have doubled in just one year.
Physical inactivity costs Europe €80BN every yearA Centre for Economics and Business Research commissioned by ISCA has revealed inactivity is costing Europe’s economies around €80 billion every year. One in four adults and 4 out of every 5 adolescents are believed to not be taking enough exercise.
Wiggle orders can now be collected from over 30 railway stationsWiggle customers can now collect their orders from another 35 new locations thanks to a fresh deal with the Doddle network. Doddle has 35 purple stores near railway stations and commuter hubs in the UK, with 300 ‘Parcelistas’ serving customers from early until late, seven days a week.
CORRECTION: Posiflex contact detailsIn the June edition (issue 113) we gave the incorrect contact details for Posiflex in the EPOS sector guide. Dealers wishing to find out more about the MT-4008W product from Posiflex should head to www.posiflex.com. The team apologises for the error and the staffer in question has been sent out to get a long weight from the local shops.
For breaking news visit:
www.bikebiz.com
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08-09 BB115 News_final.indd 2 21/07/2015 14:24
10 BIKEBIZ AUGUST BIKEBIZ.COM
BIKEBIZ WOMEN OF THE YEAR 2015
BikeBiz Women of the Year 2015Brand CEOs, retailers, bloggers, cycle advocates, training specialists and many more joined together to celebrate the high achieving women of the cycle industry on a sunny day in June…
AS THOSE who were there will confirm, it was a very warm afternoon indeed at Look Mum No Hands in Old Street for the inaugural BikeBiz Women of the Year event.
Industry executives, CEOs, bike retailers, frame builders, cycle advocates and many more came along to the inaugural awards, held on the afternoon of June 25th.
The awards saw three women picked out to win trophies from a finalist list of 100, all voted for by BikeBiz readers.
Blaze’s Emily Brooke won Rising Star and Cycle Law Scotland’s Brenda Mitchell picked up the Pioneer award.
The big award – Woman of the Year – was won by Islabikes founder Isla Rowntree. All three winners
picked up their awards at the networking reception.
The awards were given out following well-received keynote speeches from Primal Europe
director Judith Smith and Bobbin Bicycles co-founder Sian Emmison.
Isla Rowntree commented: “It was a pleasure and a surprise to win the BikeBiz Woman of the Year, although it felt a bit awkward to be singled out from so many
women with interesting and unique stories to tell!
“A big thank you to BikeBiz for celebrating our contribution to the industry. I hope this will encourage
more women to seek a career in cycling as I believe our industry can only benefit from having more diversity in its people.”
Cycle Law Scotland’s Brenda Mitchell added: “This is a fantastic honour for me and I’d like to thank
everyone who voted and supported me online.
“Being named as one of BikeBiz’s 100 Women of the Year was a privilege but to have picked up the award for Pioneer is really special.
“Cycling is my passion and I am truly dedicated to the work I do. I strive to support the cycling community across all areas whether it’s legal, political or just helping get more people out on two wheels and it’s humbling to be recognised in this way.”
Team BikeBiz would like to thank those who voted, the 100 finalists, the winners and the keynote speakers as well as our sponsors for the debut event: Event Partner BikeRight!, women’s performance sports clothing brand Fierlan and hydration specialist nuun.
Top right: Isla Rowntree, winner of Woman of the YearMiddle: Rising Star Emily Brooke, of light brand BlazeBottom: Pioneer Brenda Mitchell of Cycling Law Scotland
“I hope this will encourage more women to seek a career in cycling.”Isla Rowntree
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11 BB115_final.indd 1 15/07/2015 12:16
BIKEBIZ.COM BIKEBIZ XXXXXXX XX
INTRODUCING THE NEW 2015
Cateye introduces their Rapid Series for 2015. Superb LED technology and great design are combined to create Cateye’s Rapid series of high power multi-mount rear lights. Featuring 180’ visibility, as well as the latest lens and reflector technology these lights make sure you stay safe and seen on the road. With further additions to the range for 2015, Cateye’s Rapid lights
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12 BB115_final.indd 1 14/07/2015 10:41
BIKEBIZ.COM BIKEBIZ AUGUST 13
KALKHOFFA trend to emerge from the 2016 launches on the electric front was the addition of the ‘speed pedelec’ to a few brand’s stables. Kalkhoff introduced the Integrale, a 45kph (30mph) build capable of some 80 kilometres assistance on high output mode.
This power comes courtesy of a charged up Impulse EVO RS motor, designed for Kalkhoff bikes only and featured on builds such as the Integrale s10 and s11.
That’s not the end of the tech upgrades however, with the dash display now Bluetooth-connected to mobile phones for instant feedback records, app synching and output customisation.
50 Cycles, the UK distributor, has confirmed that it will carry stock of the bikes, which are currently without type-approval much thanks to the non-speed assisted pace at
which things are done at the Department for Transport. Retailers selling such a bike will however have to advise the customer on helmet choice and a few other details about current and potential future legislation.
While out on the Kirchberg mountains, one demo Integrale
reportedly accidentally pinched a Cadel Evans Kitzsteinhorn Strava KOM, clocking 73.3km in the process, presumably downhill.
POLYGONDescribing the UK market as ‘interesting’ and tentatively suggesting it’s open to doing business direct with retailers here, Polygon Bikes are a near global operation with a deep catalogue of bikes for on and off the roads, for kids and adults alike.
What’s interesting about Polygon is that it’s producing totally unique frames, with its own proprietary moulds and design ideas. And with
a team now hitting the podiums with some regularity in Europe, people are beginning to notice and ask after the bikes in currently unserved territories. Already strong in the German and French gravity markets, Polygon’s Collosus DH9 is the top-end downhill rig. Built around a floating suspension system, the 27.5 alloy and carbon mix utilises Shimano Saint’s groupset to good effect, while Kashima-coated Fox 40 and DHX2 shocks supply big-hit absorption.
On the trail front, look out for the Collosus T8 with its clean-lined, internally routed carbon frame. This 140mm travel offering, like many others in the catalogue, makes the most of the brand’s close ties to Spank to offer wheelset, bar and stem finishing kit from the label.
For retailers interested in representing the brand in the UK, contact [email protected]
19 exhibitors, over 120 journalists from around the globe and one gondola connected mountain. Eurobike’s first ever Media Days provided the perfect platform for 2016 bike launches, as Mark Sutton found out…
MERIDAWhat became an instant icon in the cross-country circuit when launched many years back, the Merida Ninety-Six is back this year.
Merida’s most successful race bike to date is now available in both 27.5 and 29, though the wheel size you get will be dependent on the frame size. In the case of the Ninety-Six, a small will be 27.5, while a large is 29”. The middle ground provides you the choice of either.
So what’s changed build-wise? Most-noticeable aesthetically is the addition of Rock Shox ‘upside down’ fork, as well as 1x11 gearing from Sram. Frame wise, Merida has been very careful to maintain clean straight lines through the frame. With the shock found under the top tube this almost perfectly aligns with the seat stays, which Merida says results in a very strong and clean frame. Furthermore, it’s prepped ready for electronic
gearing, while the rest of the cables are routed via ‘Smart Entry points’ that gently clamp the cables down and remove the need for unnecessary internal routing.
On the road front, things get even more interesting when it comes to the Scultura.
With the thicknesses of the carbon highly tailored for stiffness and flex in all the right places, you’ll find a super thin (03.mm) area of carbon in the top tube that will even compress if you pinch it. That’s not to say the 730 gram frame is not strong however, despite claiming the top spot for ‘lightest production bike available this year’. The rear brake is now located under the bottom bracket, with engineers also giving the down tube a ‘water droplet’ shape in order to boost aero credentials.
GHOSTCatching our eye in its brilliant red
finish, Ghost’s new FrAMR is now top of the pile in the AMR family, offering two carbon and two aluminium models revolving around a four-bar linkage.
It’s somewhat of a Jekyll and Hyde build, with a reversible lower shock mount. This clever link allows you to turn the bike from trail bike to enduro machine simply by swapping out the shock and flipping the link.
Largely inspired by the Riot platform, the FrAMR has a stiff carbon front triangle that’s prepped for Shimano Sideswing internal routing. New to the build is a new disconnect brake mount that’s lighter and stiffer than previously, as well as a discreet FD high-mount adapter frame slot with a plastic cover. A ISCG05 adapter is also worked in.
On the hardtail front, a key model is the 27.5-inch wheeled Asket. New to the line-up, it comes
with a short stem, wide bars and is internally routed, including to the dropper post. Designed simply for fun on the trails, the Asket offers 130mm of travel up front and a 68-degree head angle that promotes an agile ride. Subtle details like a largely concealed brake mount in the frame’s rear triangle only add to the frame’s clean lines.
CORRATECWith the introduction of the 2016 catalogue came Corretec’s unveiling of the Inside Link 10Hz suspension platform.
Describing it as a revolutionary new suspension technology, the firm’s new shock system uses a new rubber damper to eliminate low frequency vibrations for what is a noticeably smoother ride on smaller bumps. The rebound of the MDU damping unit also presses the back wheel into the ground, even when
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things get bumpy. A reduction in friction and static friction means that less load is required to activate the spring. The SAG is adjusted accordingly.
You’ll spot the shock in numerous places in the catalogue, from the enduro-suited 175 to the firm’s off-road electric e-140.
On the tarmac front, Corratec’s CCT Evo has bolstered the top-end with its aero profiled frame. Developed with the NACA 0038 profile, the frame and fork’s aerodynamics are not too dissimilar to a wing panel on a plane, leading to minimal air resistance. A lowered chain stay improves handling while eliminating chain slap.
GIANTStarting on the road front, journalists were scrambling to see the 2016 TCR Advanced SL.
Set up to deliver maximum power transfer, Giant’s flagship is pitched as
a bike for those savvy buyers whose purchasing decisions are based on lab tests results, for which the TCR is delivering spectacular results against competition.
Through refined Advanced SL composite technology and optimized tube shaping, the new TCR advanced SL shaves 12per cent of frameset weight (181 grams) from the previous generation, without sacrificing stiffness. The top tube, seat tube, integrated seatpost and seatstays feature minimalistic profiles, while the MegaDrive downtube and PowerCore bottom bracket have been refined to maintain TCR’s renowned pedaling stiffness.
On to electric bikes and Giant is branching out with the Yamaha driven Dirt-E+ and speed pedelec Quick-E+ platform.
Delivering a 45 km/h boost via a 500W SyncDrive motor, we are as yet unsure if the Quick-E+ will make it to the UK as it’ll currently be
classed as a moped, but it’s an interesting development nonetheless. A UK-legal 25/km/h version will also feature.
Meanwhile, Giant’s Dirt E+ will come in three Deore XT and Deore-based variations.
LIVKey to the launches from women’s-specific LIV was the new Intrigue SX trail bike.
Designed for the experienced and aggressive rider, the Intrigue is built for rougher terrain, with proven geometry and additional travel added over the prior build. The lightweight aluminum frame is designed around 27.5-inch wheels, with the Maestro suspension system offering 140mm rear travel and a matching adjustable fork with 140-160mm providing more control in rough terrain.
Additional features include the tapered OverDrive headtube and a
15mm thru-axle front for precise control, plus internal cable routing for a dropper seatpost.
STEVENSAs one of a few brands to have branched into the 27.5+ wheel size, Stevens was sending journalists out on its updated Whaka ES.
This is the brand’s first foray into plus size tyres and it works incredibly well alongside the 140mm four-bar linkage suspension. It’s a looker too, with internally routed cables for everything, including the dropper post. With a 13.2kg total weight, the extra rubber isn’t going to be a huge burden and impacts are further softened by the brand new Fox Float DPS strut.
KTMPlenty new and interesting from KTM was debuted in Kirchberg. Starting with cross country, the Myroon will be available in a variety
of builds ranging from €2,599 to €6,799, with the latter XTR Di2 build sporting Rock Shox’ flipped fork and coming in a total weight of just 8.9 kilograms.
The full-suspension Scarp 29er is your best bet for bump absorption, with 100mm front and 90mm rear travel. For 2016 the damper is no longer in front of the seat tube, instead moved horizontally underneath the top tube. Upgraded double sealed and larger bearings in the shock mount should offer a long life.
On the plus size tyre front, KTM joins the party with the Kapoho trail build. Based largely on the aluminium Lycan, the frame accommodates 3-inch wide tyres and sports Shimano’s 11-speed rear groupset.
MERCKXEddy Merckx Cycles has made the jump into high-end aluminium for
those who are looking for top performance but not worried whether that’s delivered by carbon or metal.
The 1,150 gram Blockhaus 67 frame, named after Eddy’s famously unexpected domination of the Giro D’Italia peleton in the mountains, comes built with triple butted 6069 aluminium alloy tubing, which the firm says is substantially stronger than 6061. As a bike paying homage, the frame’s attention to detail is superb, with smooth double-pass welding, internal routing for the mechanical brakes and some clever working of the seatstays for enhanced comfort.
On the gravel bike front, look out for the Strasbourg 71, offering 40mm tyre clearance, as well as the 69 Mourenx, now available clad with Shimano 685 discs.
SCOTT SPORTSOn the wish list of anyone who
needs a bike capable of high speed no matter what the terrain, Scott’s new Genius Plus is a thing of beauty.
As just one of four models in eleven builds utilising the plus size tyres, Scott have placed great faith in trailblazing 27.5+ builds, including the power-assisted E-Genius.
The Genius Plus 700 Tuned and 710 plus builds both utilise carbon frames, while alloy comes into play in the 720 Plus build. A new alloy rear triangle accommodates Boost 148mm wide hubs and keeps chainstay length as short as possible at 445mm.
The ergonomic Twinloc Lever has been re-engineered for MY16 and is now found underneath the handlebar, with travel adjustable between full lockout, 90 or 130mm.
On the hardtail front, you’ve the Scale Plus, which Scott say is best suited to anything from aggressive
cross country to trail riding in comfort with its relaxed geometry.
CUBEKey to Cube’s 2016 launches was an update on the downhill front, with the Two15 HPA 27.5.
This aluminium rig will start at €4,500 and span €6,500, depending on the build kit. The top model comes in at a little over 15kg all in.
There’s been some clever engineering applied with internal routing applied for braking and gear cables and kinematics optimised for the new Fox downhill shocks. A new streamlined four-bar frame design is built for big hit durability.
Rumour also has it that, come Eurobike, Cube will reveal a 27.5 150mm front and rear travel rig.
Hardtail bikes from the manufacturer remain unchanged as most were significantly revamped not too long ago.
A one stop shop for all parts and accessories.As well as offering the usual children’s bikes to mountain, touring, city, BMX, men’s bikes, women’s bikes, sports bikes and specialist lightweight racing thoroughbreds.
We also offer an extensive range of parts and accessories from brakes, bottles and baskets to wheels and workshop equipment.
Claud Butler creates all these and more, and into each go the care and craftsmanship you would expect from a company with over a century of experience, an enviable reputation for quality and an Olympic pedigree.
Telephone 01652 656 000 for our latest catalogues
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Walk the SportlineFrom team bikes to balance bikes and everything in between, Sportline’s brands have rustled up an ever broader line-up offering something for everyone. Jonathon Harker takes a closer look at the 2016 line-up…
THE BIKE design gurus behind Sportline’s 2016 line-up have been aiming to fill range gaps and hit all the right notes whatever sector your bike shop specialises in, with an increasingly broad set of ranges. There’s even been a few hints as to future 2017 models too, but let’s not get ahead of ourselves…
First up, Saracen. The 2016 line-up includes Tuff Trax which are all 27.5 inch this year, including the entry-level models. The brand told BikeBiz it felt the time was right, what with 27.5 inch spares now much easier to come by. Like a number of others, Saracen has entirely ditched the 26-inch format. What a difference a few years make. There are five models in the range, plus a 29er.
Mantra continues to be very successful for Saracen. This year it uses the brand’s own chip-slot dropout. The Mantra Carbon was a big surprise for Saracen, selling out double quick. For 2016 it sees internally routed cables with two models available (£1,599 for the Trail or £2,099 for the Elite).
Saracen’s Urban range is its ‘most complete’ yet and the Myth
features disc brakes. 2016’s Ariel line comes in two models and a frame kit, with the enduro range now offering 160mm travel forks (150mm last year).
The Kili Flyer (pictured above) has hoovered up plenty of press already. There’s just the one model this season – a carbon frame featuring a Deore XT set up. The fork has 130mm travel and specs in response to customer upgrades.
The Hack this year has got strong graphics across its four models. Over on the road, Avro has proved another success for the firm. For 2016 there’s one carbon frame in two versions (£1,600 and £2,099).
CONTINUING ADVENTURESAdventure is a very broad-minded brand in terms of range and partner. Any retailer can buy into it,
with few limitations. It can be used as a stock filler or as full stock and comes mostly assembled to save time in the workshop. The full kids range includes the Zooom line-up, now in six colours with smaller tubes and at £99.99.
The Café Series is new for Adventure, including upright Dutch-style rides Prima Café (6-speed) and a Deluxe (3-speed) version. Then there’s the Double
Shot, which features flat bars and 3-speed internal hub. The pub bike-esque Flat White has rack mounts and 14-speed gears.
Rapide is still pretty young and for 2016 the range has been given eye-catching paint jobs to help it stand out in dealerships. Fulcrum has been used throughout the range for 2016 and the carbon models have been pared down
from four to three. Again, strong graphics are to the fore and prices go up according to components, topping out with full Ultegra (though some of the range has reverted to external routing to shave off prices).
The RL disc is a three bike range that premiered at iceBike*. It has a full carbon fork and eyelets for guards and racks.
Onto Ridgeback, a range that continues to offer a bit of everything and boasts 400-plus dealers. Ridgeback has entered the world of electric bikes, launching two models earlier this year. One of those – the Electron Plus – has completely sold out. So what next? The team told BikeBiz there are plans to launch two new e-bike models for 2017, likely including a traditional step over model and also a high-end e-bike.
Elsewhere the Ridgeback range has more colour, there’s a new three-geared Nova and an ever larger Metro range, providing yet more choice for dealers. The World Series range has been tweaked but the bigger story is the new and appealing classic paint job and
Twin top tubes help the Urban Bridge range cut a dash in the showroom.
BIKEBIZ.COM BIKEBIZ AUGUST 21
SPORTLINE 2016 LAUNCH
The 2016 Kili Flyer has attracted much media coverage
head badge, capitalising on the fact that traditional is working well for the market.
THE STABILISERS ARE OFFDimension is Ridgeback’s premium kids bike, buoyed by parents getting into cycling and wanting a decent ride for their offspring. The range sold out last year, BikeBiz was told and there’s a 16-inch wheel version in the 2016 line-up. Kickstands have also been added to some of the models. According to Sportline, the balance bike market is now so strong that stabilisers’ popularity is plummeting, with youngsters going from balance/running bikes straight to junior bike sizes.
Just a fraction of Ridley’s range was on show at the Sportline show and no surprise with the Belgian brand revealing plans to double its popular cyclocross range. Ridley already offers – it says – more cyclocross bikes than any other brand and that’s in no danger of change with the all-new category launch – the x trail – an aggressive gravel-esque range. With a higher front end, they are going to be a touch more comfortable to ride, but they’ll still be capable of handling races, on the road too.
TT bikes are also proving popular for the brand with the new Chronus providing an entry level option for the sector. Ridely’s Fenix SL updates the Fenix, which is the brand’s best-seller in the UK, and you may have already seen it on the cobbles on the pro circuit.
The new aero Noah will be on show at Eurobike, as will the full depth of Ridley’s range.
2016 is Genesis’ tenth model year, so there’s a few nods to this
milestone in the new range. The top level Zero performance range has been pared down from four bikes to a three bike range, including one at £1,100. The frame is the same but different grades of carbon have been used. Forks are more slimline/tapered and over 100g has been shaved off the frame. The Di2 verison (Zero Z.i) will set riders back £2,999. There’s a frame set for the team bike too.
For 2016, Equilibrium disc has four models and a stainless steel
bike at the top. The geometry has been reworked, with a new stack and reach designed to make it easier for dealers to fit to customers. The new six models are designed to accommodate the increasing popularity of discs.
The Equilibriums have new and so far popular graphics, while the Croix de Fer now has a reworked aluminium version. The Volante is no more, but the Delta is new, an entry-level road offering two
versions (£799 and £599). Elsewhere, the Urban Bridge Series is brand new, sporting unusual twin top tubes and pleasingly retro paint jobs. The do-anything, go-anywhere Vagabond sneaks under £1,000 with 29-inch wheels new old-school bar end shifters.
Onto MTB and the Longitude now comes in 27.5, 27.5+ and 29er options. The previous model year sold out and there’s been no little hype around these latest versions. Tarn is a new 27.5+/29 trail bike,
while the Caribou now comes with free Gorilla cages, mounted to the fork and capable of carrying a wide variety of gear (sleeping bags, wine bottles, you name it). The rims are not drilled, so not as much tape is required, while the frame has been tweaked and it’s now in a fetching ‘flash green’. The eye-catching Caribou Junior is in the range too.
Datum is another addition, a large-tyred carbon road disc bike ready for the gravel if you should so choose. Using Genesis’ own tools and moulds, the wide tyres are accommodated thanks to frame cut outs and it comes in three models and a frameset.
The Croix de Fer is pitched as the backbone of the range, with titanium options alongside the Reynolds 725 Chromoly editions (including a frameset). This year Tour de Fer comes in two models and a frame set. It’s a fast growing category, Sportline tells BikeBiz, and the drop bars have been replaced with flat bars.
Let’s wrap up with the Decade range, providing a modest nod to its anniversary. There’s a Day One, CdF and Equilibrium in the limited range, with matt paint jobs that blend into gloss plus extra detailing on specs. www.sportlineb2b.co.uk
The Ridgeback World Series range now has a classic paint job and a head badge to match.
Who’s bringing the buzz to Birmingham?As the e-bike sector gets closer to the proverbial tipping point in the UK, which brands can you expect to see showing their electric wares in the halls of the NEC this September? Jonathon Harker takes an advance look…
A2B - STAND J140WWW.WEAREA2B.COM
A2B IS one of several big German electric bike brands appearing at the NEC this September. Focused on blending aesthetics and engineering, a custom rack mounted battery features throughout the city, hybrid and folding bike ranges. A2B bikes feature a bespoke internal motor system – the company says it is the first to ‘truly incorporate electric motors in pedalling’. Trivia: Each model is named after
an engineer, such as Thomas Edison, Ferdinand Ferber, Graham Obree and Hideo Shima.
GAZELLE – STAND K127WWW.GAZELLEBIKES.COM/ELECTRIC-BIKES
ANOTHER EURO e-bike giant attending Cycle Show, Gazelle has a big presence as the market leader in the Dutch e-bike market, where there are already half a million on the road.
The brand offers a choice between front wheel engine or mid-engine hybrid (which provides enhanced steering thanks to a low centre of gravity). Customers have two batteries to pick from, offering value or engine silence.
Other key features include Shift Sensor Technology, providing smooth and fluid pedalling.
RALEIGH - STAND J145WWW.RALEIGHEBIKE.CO.UK
THE NEW Raleigh Captus will make its event debut at The Cycle Show and builds upon the success of the Raleigh Motus.
It uses a Bosch battery and motor, a system that is focused on smooth acceleration and even gear shifting. The Captus features a Suntour suspension front fork, a handlebar display to keep riders informed and it comes in a bright, eye-catching blue. The battery provides the electric bike with a
range of up to 148km and comes with nine gears. Get up close with the Captus at Stand J145.
EMU - STAND K155WWW.EMUBIKES.COM
BRITISH BRAND Emu specialises in e-bikes that just tuck under the cycle to work threshold of £1,000. A modestly sized range includes just one men’s model and one women’s model (both coming in two colours). They feature a discreetly placed Samsung battery (positioned in the down-tube), Shimano brakes and gears, light controls on the handlebars and a handy built-in USB charger port for phones and the like.
KTM - STAND H121WWW.KTM-BIKES.AT/EN
OVER IN Austria the KTM team has a full range of mountain and fat bikes with electric motors to provide to UK consumers (via Fli). The brand new Macina Kapoho is a 27.5+ full suspension e-bike with downtube mounted (Bosch) battery, capable of 500Wh and a 1x11 Shimano XT 1x11 drivetrain. According to the brand, the Macina Kapoho is a MTB frame designed specifically for e-bike use with battery mount, so
everything has been focused on maximising the efficiency and enjoyment of the bike.
+MANY MOREWWW.CYCLESHOW.CO.UK/TRADE
THESE FIVE e-bike brands will be joined by many more in September at Birmingham’s NEC for what is promised as the biggest Cycle Show yet.
It starts on Thursday September 24th when the show opens to trade and press from 9:30am to 6:00pm. The doors will then open to the public from 9:30am to 5:00pm on the 25th, closing September 27th. More information on the range of
exhibitors and tickets (free for the trade and press) can be found at www.cycleshow.co.uk/trade.
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210 x 13mm 280 x 13mm NEW 150 x 14mm NEW 210 x 14mm CRITERION 270 x 16mm
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To place an order or to become a stockist please contact your Fisher Account Manager, b2b.fisheroutdoor.co.uk or call sales on 01727 798 345
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Master Lock D-LocksA complete range of Gold Sold Secure D Lock’s – now available
26 BB115_final.indd 1 15/07/2015 12:19
SKS GERMANY
Curtain trails…Having shrugged off world wars, countless cobbled climbs and some envious competition, the SKS of today has seemingly never had such a bright future. Mark Sutton talks to export manager Robert Schaffon about why dealer’s shelves should be sporting the iconic orange logo…
Detailed drawings of component parts
IT WAS 1921 when Karl Scheffer-Klute opened a small curtain rail making business in Sundern, Germany. Passing the business on to son-in-law Wilhelm Blome just a few years later, it wasn’t until 1932 that SKS ‘went off the rails’ and turned its focus to bicycle pump manufacture, taking over a local company that had gone bankrupt. Though almost closed following the Second World War, SKS approaches its 95th birthday and is now represented in more than 50 countries worldwide, with Zyro exclusively handling UK sales.
Now the family-run business is in its fourth generation and is exceeding (in 2014) a €50million annual turnover – more than ever, SKS is investing in its future, with the company now boasting 69 huge injection molding machines, three times more than when they started, with a further two set to be added shortly. SKS’s total turnover figure doubles to more than
€100 million when you add on non-bicycle related turnover from sister enterprises Blomus, synonymous with well-designed, stainless steel home accessories, and Schoett, aluminium die-casting products. When it comes to automotives, SKS’s plastic parts can
be
found in cars from Audi, Porsche, BMW and Bentley, all of whom rely on the firm’s precision engineering for small parts, generating up to 35 per cent of the turnover.
“Cycling is 65 per cent of the entire business, the largest piece of the pie,” explains export manager Robert
Schatton. “The past five years have seen the greatest level of investment in machinery in our history and we’re now home to over 333 employees and 20 trainees, most of whom are from the local region. We’ve fiercely resisted outsourcing production and labour abroad, with 99 per cent of our
goods made here, in and around Sundern. We’ve even supported sheltered workshops for the handicapped in the region who handle some of our product assembly. Rather than outsource to the Far East, we prefer to support the local economy wherever possible.”
Inside the Sundern HQ you’re met first by a world class showroom, behind which an enormous network of production lines is hard at work. “Many don’t realise that a simple mudguard or pump requires such an enormity of investment into design, testing, production and of course all of our unique moulds. All of these are made in-house and cost anything from €15,000 to as much as €120,000 for a complex part we make for the sanitary industry,” says plant manager Michaela Fleige.
“When we quote prices for moulds, that’s for one individual component making up the finished product, so expertise in design and engineering is essential. With an average mould cost of €60,000 per unit, we can’t afford to make mistakes.”
Deep inside the 36,000 square metre facility are rows upon rows of these moulds, some still in use, some stored. To create just the body for the
“With many moulds averaging €60,000, we don’t make mistakes...”Michaela Fleige, SKS
BIKEBIZ.COM BIKEBIZ AUGUST 27
An SKS classic – Rencompressors ready for assembly
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SKS GERMANY
renewed Air X-Press track pump, a two-piece 2.5 ton steel mould is needed. The injection moulding process can apply up to 350 tonnes of pressure to create an imperfection-free product (Other industries can apply even more.) One such machine spotted on our tour was churning out 15,000 two compound pieces in a 121 hour cycle for their very popular X-Blade clip-on MTB mudguard.
The same enormous numbers from production apply in the testing too.
“Our testing is often excessive,” says Karsten Grabski, from R&D. “Nobody in the real world takes a pump up to 150 psi 50 or more times in a row.
“We ensure that when the pump reaches this high pressure, there is no leakage at all. Even with the heat generated our plastics survive comfortably.”
BikeBiz walked in on the testing of the revised Raceblade Long
mudguard, which was being subjected to brutal vibration tests on a machine that tortured the bike to the tune of 825 x five-minute cycles simulated over various terrain and at differing speeds and with a 95kg rider weight. SKS is of the view that if a mudguard can survive British roads
and British weather, they can survive anywhere. The result? The mudguard was absolutely perfect, whereas the bike’s tyre had worn dramatically, depositing a fine rubbery micro-film over the testing equipment.
So, the product’s robust, many dealers knew that, but what’s in store
for 2016 onwards that provides a compelling reason to stock up?
“A combination of in-house production and buying in Euros has helped us keep prices steady at a time when the rest of the industry is struggling to do the same,” according to Schatton. “We’re thrilled to now
have a single distributor in Zyro. That should allow dealers to maintain their margins and stop some of the pricing issues we had in the past. Zyro has just launched some key offers to stock up on pumps and mudguards in preparation for winter and these will suit all sizes of independent retailer.”
It’s not all aftermarket sales, however. SKS has long been a supplier to a strong portion of the world’s premier bicycle makers, with KTM, Focus, Giant, Cube and Brompton just a few using often customised SKS products.
“We offer OEM suited product from as little as 200 pieces,” says Schatton. “With that in mind we’re seeing good business from a variety of brands large and small on the OEM front and it now represents around 22 per cent of sales.” With Eurobike later this month, you’ll no doubt see many SKS goods without having realised. The firm does however invite people to its stand to check out some new goods. Among others, these launches will include three new colours for the Airboy pumps, an innovative tool-free clip-on front mudguard for road and gravel bikes and a specific fat bike mudguard set. A new website will also debut at the show in Friedrichshafen.
“Our testing’s excessive. Nobody pumps to 150 psi, 50 times in a row.”Karsten Grabski, R&D
28 BIKEBIZ AUGUST BIKEBIZ.COM
A 1979 blast from the past
Vigorous testing of a full-cover guard
Silos of plastic unloading at SKS
A selection of OEM product
Production line and quality control
Just a fraction of the moulds in storage
Handpumps in assembly at SKS HQ
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CATCH UPS
Is your workshop struggling to turn a profit?
Lightrider’s IBD focus
Citrus-Lime tells BikeBiz how it can help bike shops with billing hours in the all-important workshop
Tudor Davies tells Jonathon Harker about Lightrider’s new plans to target independent stores…
THE WORKSHOP is the hub of many bike shops – it’s where the independent dealer can build a competitive advantage-supplying a valuable in-house service. So why have we seen many retailers struggle to turn a profit? From years working with retailers we’ve identified common problems and have developed a system to overcome these. Our Workshop Module provides the foundations to run and monitor a workshop well. However, it’s the training, the mechanics and ongoing partnership that helps retailers reach the full potential.
What makes Citrus-Lime qualified to offer advice to dealers on managing a workshop? Our retail support and training team have worked in and managed workshops, so they understand the bug bears faced every day and the issues of overseeing the whole operation. Citrus-Lime’s workshop module has been designed off the back of real experience within
workshops by people who understand both the workshop and the technology used to manage it.
From this experience what are Citrus-Lime’s top tips to optimise dealers’ workshop system and maximise profit?It may seem obvious, but if a workshop can fulfil the following three things they will be successful:
Minimise mistakes and making sure all time is billed for;
Maximise sales via excellent time management;
And to provide outstanding customer service.
The Process 1. Book in a job allocating enough time for the job and selecting the mechanic. Maximise the amount of jobs booked in without stretching staff.
2. The customer is given a realistic time of completion. A simple way to deliver good customer service.
3. The mechanics use the workshop module to manage their day and jobs, therefore can manage their time effectively and increase productivity.
4. Mechanics record parts and labour
as they work. Parts are scanned into the system and are instantly allocated. Workshop Jobs can have a set rate that are easily added to the bill, it’s all about making sure all time is billed.
5. Any mechanic can see where the work is up to and what needs to be done. For example, all tasks for a service are listed and ticked off as completed. There no need to rely on messages being passed verbally or scribbled on a note pads.
6. When done, an automated text and email is sent to the customer providing a personalised service.
7. Details of the work feed directly to the customer’s bill, giving advice and recommendations for after care.
8. Professional invoices are printed or emailed itemising all the work and parts provided. By seeing exactly what they’ve paid for the customer has something tangible showing value of the service they’ve received.
BIKEBIZ.COM BIKEBIZ AUGUST 31
How’s business for Lightrider? We have had a steady increase in sales since our launch last year. Over the last few months we have been starting enquires in mainland Europe and we are pleased to say that Lightrider is soon to be for sale in Norway and Sweden. This has all been through the assistance of Paul Stratta, a well know face in the industry.
You’ve a new shop pack – can you give us the details? We have been very aware that we
are a new brand and with a very different concept in lighting. It has always been important to make customers realise our USP, so we hope a POS will help to bring together our range of four lights and attract them in to pick up one of the boxes.
Has the product changed much since first launched? No, but we are currently working on version two which will be out towards the end of the year. It’s still the same shape, but a different
colour with higher spec LEDs and new packaging.
What kind of enhancements have you got in mind for further updates, or is that all hush hush at this stage? We have a number of different lights that we plan to bring out, but we want to establish our current model and more importantly, the concept.
But ultimately we intend to have a cheaper and more expensive version.
You’ve got some new POS options too? Currently we are just planning a mounting board that can hang on standard shelving, and display all lights together. In the future we would love this to expand as we now have a great POS company on board, but one thing at a time.
How many countries are you in now and what are your plans for Lightrider? We’re now all around the UK, Ireland, Sweden, Norway and soon to be in Spain. Currently our biggest customers are large stores, which is great, but we are keen to expand to IBDs, which is why we have brought out the Point of Sale units and a shop pack, which will contain two AA lights, three USB, two AA sets and three USB sets – making ten in total, a great starting pack for a shop.www.lightrider.co.uk
Exploring new territoryIt’s three years since Marin was bought by Euro investor Minestone. Mark Sutton catches up with international sales and marketing man Tom Brown, who talks about how that cash is paying dividends going into 2016…
Marin’s new 90-degree turn quick release
LAST TIME we spoke in depth to Marin, the brand’s representatives proudly declared “we’re on our way back to the top of the mountain bike market tree.”
Shortly after the February 2012 takeover and subsequent investment by European investors Minestone Limited, Marin began to evolve. First of all came investment in human resources and with that, naturally came the product innovation in which the brand has a long history, particularly when it comes to the off-road machines on which the brand became known as a leader.
“With absolutely no disrespect to former staff who too have been great, Marin has never been so strong in terms of the strength and depth of our people across the board,” says Tom Brown, the brand’s international sales and marketing man.
“Our key brand management positions have some seriously talented people and our pavement segment designer, for example, is one of the best. He’s totally focused and passionate about this area and it shows in the finished product.”
And Brown has some kind words for those representing the label in the
UK too, which has become a strategically big market for the brand.
“We’ve been really impressed with our distributors, particularly Paligap in the UK. In fact, I find the UK market to be an extremely switched on place when compared to some other territories. The dealers we’ve met aren’t stuck discussing how things used to be. Their hands are out of their pockets, they’re leading the way when it comes to IT, click and collect and new ideas to drive footfall.”
When it comes to the fresh 2016 bikes, Marin has some interesting builds that’ll offer the rider plenty of versatility. One example is the Pine Mountain One 27.5+, which has been created to celebrate the brand’s 30th anniversary and tackle any terrain with its large 2.9 tyres.
“I’ve had to update my stock forecasts twice. It’s incredibly difficult to predict stock and sales, especially
on new and perhaps niche products, but these bikes have been very well received by our distributors. Steel bike trends come and go, but we think we’ve hit the nail on the head with the Pine Mountain.”
Then there’s the Gestalt, a new gravel bike. Built around an alloy frame, it’s sporting Sram’s 1x11 Rival single ring, with a super-wide XD Drive cassette. It’s subtle details like an oversized cooling fin on the front caliper, totally unique to Marin’s fork,
that make the difference in handling and consistent performance (even when loaded with luggage). Also of note on this and other builds, is a new 90-degree twist quick release axle, dubbed Naild and adopted by Marin to make mechanic’s lives easier and the bike’s feedback stiffer.
Traditional territory, though evolving in terms of wheel size and geometry, is well covered too.
Pro level off-road builds are now, to the delight of many, specced with BOS Suspension, in a partnership that sees the fork manufacturer explore OEM avenues further. “There’s great acceptance for the BOS brand in the UK,” says Brown. “We’ve had a lot of positive comments from riders.”
On the 29-inch wheel front, the Rift Zone features 110mm of travel at the back, with 120mm up front. Frame wise you’ve a choice of two alloy (beginning £1,500) and four carbon builds (ranging £2,500 to £5,500), the latter of which has internal cable routing and 1x11.
If it’s a trail bike your customer is after it’ll be the Mount Vision Pro catching their eye. Based around the IsoTrac suspension platform, there are alloy buids between £1,500 and £2,400, as well as a carbon line spanning £3,500 to £5,500.
Finally, the braver riders out there will have eyes for the 150mm Attack Trail Pro. Perfect for enduro, among other things, all models carry 1x11, downtube protection, a direct mount rear mech and plenty more.
All three of these off-road platforms offer a frameset at £2,200. Paligap: 01454 332110
“I’ve had to update my stock forecasts on the steel bikes twice.”Tom Brown, Marin
REGIONALSPOTLIGHT:Scotland and the North of England
The Fort William World Cup draws fans, world-class riders and global media. Since 2002 the much loved event has generated over £30 million for the local economy, but like all outside events, it can occasionally be held hostage by the weather. This year, for instance, a bit of rain hit the event.
“A bit of rain is a slight understatement,” Mark Jardine, of event organiser Rare Management, corrects BikeBiz. “For the past five years or so the weather has been excellent, with lots of sun. This year it was payback time. But we survived – fitter and stronger!”
Jardine’s not wrong, though even the unseasonably wet and windy weather of the 2015 event couldn’t halt an upwards trajectory. But let’s dwell on the conditions – the weather made the build-up difficult, including the preparation of the course. A glimmer of metaphorical and literal sunshine was shining through for the Sunday forecast, so the event team – the organisers,
UCI, the venue and the TV companies – opted to go for a single day of training, qualification and racing on the Sunday with no DH action on Saturday if the weather was as bad as expected. Sadly the forecasters were spot on but the resilient Fort William spectators made the most of the day with the British Trials Championships, Scottish Power Mini DH, Danny MacAskill’s Drop and Roll Tour, the World Cup Village and BUFF 4X Pro Tour. This attracted the usual crowds, seemingly oblivious to the rain, with Saturday numbers only down by a few hundred on 2014. Staffers worked around the clock Sunday, but it all paid off and the weather broke in time for the Finals.
“It was a tough weekend for everyone but we all faced the challenge and made it happen,” says Jardine. “Numbers on Sunday were the highest since the World Championships in 2007 and would have been even higher if the
forecast had not put off many planning to come for the day.”
It’s been part of a steady progression since 2002, barring a “spectacular blip in 2007 when we hosted the week-long World Championships.”
“Spectator numbers have climbed steadily, with a hugely loyal fan-base. In every aspect it has continued to move forward – at-event features and side events, facilities for spectators, course developments, quality of TV production, economic impact. Media coverage has moved more online, with a live Red Bull Media House webcast growing yearly.”
But there are challenges for an event located far from the UK’s South East. Jardine explains: “Traditional press exposure seems to be getting harder – partly because of the difficulty in getting London-based journalists to come so far north. Generally, anyone who attends is amazed and impressed at the scale, excitement and
atmosphere of the event.”There are other challenges, like
bringing specialist event equipment big distances. Then there’s travel distance for teams and spectators, reluctance of southern media to travel and so a difficult sponsorship sell too. “So essentially, all related to remote location. Apart from these it’s great and the location is what makes it special.”
Clearly immensely proud of the event, Jardine finds the shortage of mainstream coverage baffling: “Bearing in mind that Mountain Bike Downhill is probably the most consistently successful discipline in cycling, the lack of mainstream coverage – or even acknowledgement of the skill and fitness of the top athletes – continues to be depressing. When the sport attracts 9,500 people into a car park in the Highlands, doubling the local population, it should deserve a bit more recognition. But then we’re biased.” fortwilliamworldcup.co.uk
BIKEBIZ.COM BIKEBIZ AUGUST 35
BikeBiz gets on the trail of bike businessesin Scotland and the North of England for thepros and cons of operating in the respective
SHAND IS an independent bicycle manufacturer based in Scotland. Started in 2003 by Steven Shand, the business has since relaunched (in 2011) in partnership with Russell Stout, moving to larger premises, growing the team, and investing in tooling and various other facets of the business.
BikeBiz speaks with founder Steven Shand...
How’s business? Business is good. It’s hard, but good. I think that we’re seeing a bit of polarisation in the cycle trade with the bigger successful businesses continuing to do well and some of the smaller lesser players finding it harder. I believe we probably belong to the latter group but since we have a very focused product and a sales model that works direct with the customer for the most part, I think we can get away with worrying less about competition. We’re seeing continuing sales growth and work hard to meet these sales in a way that continues to improve margins and make us a more profitable (and by extension, stable) business.
How important is it to the brand to be designing and fabricating
bikes in Scotland? That’s a good question. A huge influence that plays right through our business is the environment we find ourselves as cyclists riding in. That may be the weather, the quality of the road surfaces and probably most importantly, the land access rights we have in Scotland. This environmental consideration makes its way into all our bikes. Whether it’s big tyres, clearance for mudguards, lighting system for short winter days or just making
sure the bikes are suitable for riding out in any direction for hundreds of miles with (almost) unrestricted land access. So to answer one half of the question, I’d say it was very important for us to be designing bikes here in Scotland. I think the challenges we face as riders in Scotland aren’t unique and can be found all over the world but things do feel less forgiving up here.
As for the importance of fabricating bikes in Scotland? I’d like to say that I don’t think where the bikes are manufactured is that
important. I’d always place the quality of the production work before the geographic location of where the product is made. That said, I’m very passionate about my nationality and I’m proud that we can operate a viable, sustainable business here in Scotland. We’re lucky that we have the skills here in-house in Scotland and currently don’t have to look elsewhere. I honestly believe we have some of the best fabrication/welding skills in the business in the UK and we
continue to receive accolades for our paint and finish work. I am however pragmatic and if we were to launch a range of carbon fibre bikes next week, I’d have no problems having these made by the people with the best skills, no matter where they are. Although we are very happy to tell people about our products being made here in the UK, I’m very open minded about the quality of (most) of the work coming in overseas.
Are there any specific challenges
to producing bikes in Scotland?We do feel a little left out up here. We get less media exposure because we’re just not handy enough to ‘pop in for a chat’. We need to be more pro-active and court the cycling publications. It’s harder to form professional partnerships as we just don’t have the physical closeness that others do. But beyond that, I don’t think the challenges are really any greater than having a business elsewhere in the UK.
And working in the bike business in Scotland...? I think it’s a great place to live and work. There’s a great cycling community up here. We have world-class MTB events in the Tweed Valley and in Fort William. We have two hugely popular closed road sportives: Tour of the Borders and Etape Caledonia. Add to that the huge amount of MTB riding, from the fantastic 7-Stanes trail centres to the awesome wild Highland trails and you can see why Scotland has become such a busy destination for cyclists. We’re also home to lots of cycling business, like Hotlines, 2pure and the fantastically successful Endura. www.shandcycles.com
36 AUGUST BIKEBIZ BIKEBIZ.COM
REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT
MANUFACTURER PROFILE: SHAND CYCLES
“Where the bikes are manufactured isn’t important. Quality comes first.”Steven Shand, Shand Cycles
ROAD ON TOPWhile MTB is more prevalent than in the South, road dwarfs MTB in the North and Scotland at 83% vs 31%
MOUNTAIN BIKINGCyclists in the North & Scotlandare more likely to mountainbike (31%) than cyclists arein the rest of the UK (26%)
Shand’s classic steel road Skinnymalinky is back for ‘15
Shand has been fabricating bikes in the UK since 2003
ENGLAND’S NORTH houses a number of the largest independent bicycle retailers in the business. Both JE James and Wheelbase operate huge bike showrooms, Wheelbase in the Lake District and JE James across three locations in South Yorkshire and Derbyshire (Rotherham, Chesterfield and Sheffield).
Local riding conditions in Cumbria are among the reasons business is ticking over nicely for Wheelbase. Director Toby Dalton tells BikeBiz: “We have got some of the UK’s best road riding and MTBing right on our doorstep and events like the Fred Whitton and Gravity Enduro Series are showcasing the world-class riding here. Plus recent initiatives from the government-funded GoLakes project with at least 20miles of traffic-free paths, Way of the Roses and the Morecambe to Barrow cycle path has given leisure cycling here a real boost. The locals are all very active and into cycling, along with running, open water swimming, tris etc, too.”
Core to Wheelbase’s strategy is making use of the locale: “Given our location it has made our events a real success and they are now a key part of our business. The Big MTB Demo Weekend and Le Tour
de Staveley are mainstays on the cycling calendar. Since we took over Wheelbase nearly ten years ago we wanted the store to be a true destination of cycling and hopefully we have achieved this.”
2015 has proved strong for the retailer, with a healthy start to the year, albeit a slower April and May than anticipated, then healthy growth in June and July.
“For the first time in years May sales saw us sell marginally more
MTBs than road. Mountain biking never really took a dip but it is certainly on the rise and the wheel size change has invigorated the market – there are some great bikes out there now!”
JE James tells BikeBiz that it too is seeing MTB sales with the edge at the moment. It’s also a keen believer in events to support the retail business. Marketing and PR man Adam Simmonite tells BikeBiz: “Events are an important customer offer and we have delivered our second CycleFest this year. It was a fantastic weekend attendance,
trebled from last year. We also put on a longer sportive called the Cyclefest Challenger and are providing support for community events and other sportives.
“We realise the importance the cycle shop plays in a pathway to participation. JEJ stores are situated on the doorstep of the Peak District, giving access to some amazing riding. Working with the Peak District National Park we will be putting on a multi-terrain
sportive for this year and also a series of sportives next year.
“We will be working with Grindleford village in the Peak District to be a part of a weekend festival to celebrate the Tour of Britain passing through the village.
“Business has been good for us and we are seeing an increase in sales across the company. Our Chesterfield branch remains our best performing store across all cycle genres. We’ve recently invested in a programme of store refurbishment including new flooring, brand experience areas
and new store layouts to allow an intuitive customer flow through the store. We have also invested in an online staff training portal.”
A core of local enthusiasts play a vital role in looking after cycle interests, says Simmonite: “MTB in the local area has a large and passionate following. There are a number of trail developments emerging and local advocacy groups such as Ride Sheffield and Rother Valley Riders have built teams of volunteers to help advocate and maintain new trails infrastructure. JEJames is keen to support this and the challenge from a business perspective is to be seen as a company that is supportive first and driving secondary sales second, however the recent sanitisation of some classic Peak District trails has caused a review of Councils and Governing bodies consultation processes. These still rumble on. However from a business perspective the grading of certain bridleways has allowed better access for the emerging gravel bike market. This has been a driver for us to offer multi-terrain sportives as part of the JEJames Sportive programme.”www.jejamescycles.co.ukwww.wheelbase.co.uk
REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT
BIKEBIZ.COM BIKEBIZ AUGUST 39
RETAILER FOCUS: JE JAMES AND WHEELBASE
“We realise the part a cycle shop plays in the pathway to participation.”Adam Simmonite, JE James
MARGINAL GAINSThe proportion of cyclists ridingroad bikes barely varies betweenthe North & Scotland and the restof the UK(83.4% and 83.7%)
SAFETY CONSCIOUSCOMMUTERS6% of cyclists in the North &Scotland say they would neverwear a helmet while commuting(9% in the rest of the UK).
Cumbria’s Wheelbase says it has some of the UK’s best road and mountain bike riding on its doorstep
SCOTLAND CONTAINS two of the UK’s best-known cycle trade distributors – 2pure and Hotlines. Located just 27 miles from each other, the two are Core stalwarts.
Founded in 2006, 2pure distributes in the UK and Ireland, representing POC, Lizard Skins, Mio, Honey Stinger and Nathan. Hotlines brings Lapierre, Lynskey, Ghost and many more to the trade, including own brands Nukeproof, Ragley and Brand X.
“We are a national distributor, with 87 per cent of our business being outside Scotland,” 2pure MD George Bowie tells BikeBiz. “Whilst Scotland is our home there is an importance that we make it simple to do business with us wherever our customers are.
“We have loads of positives here – three major closed road events, amazing mountain biking, endless running events, all of which showcase some of the most beautiful parts of the UK. Also having hills helps.
“We are blessed with a fantastic range of events that cater to everyone. We are involved with most events on our doorstep.
“The only thing that could be improved is the quality of some of the road surfaces for commuters in
some of the bigger cities. Edinburgh in particular has experienced a lot of problems due to the new tram network.”
In business terms, it has been a strong 12 months, Bowie reveals: “It has been a great year. There has been a fantastic response to Eddy Merckx bikes and POC has now established themselves as a road market player. We feel like we have made the industry look at 2pure and realise we are not just a distributor of MTB equipment anymore.”
Behind the scenes it has been a big 2015 too, merging with sister
company 9point9, which operates in the outdoor sector, at the start of the year. “Nearly six months later the combined business has shown phenomenal sales growth. Now renamed as 2pure Active, the outdoor, snow, and running side of the business has helped contribute to a 37 per cent (2pure Cycle) and 58 per cent (2pure Active) increase in sales to date compared to last year. Some of the increase has come from strong performances
from existing brands and some from recent new distribution deals.
“The merging of the two businesses has made it easier for us to sell products into both sides of the business, and it makes it clearer to dealers that they have ready access to the many opportunities within our business. I am particularly pleased to see that our growth has come both from brands where we have a long-standing relationship and also from our more recent brand acquisitions. We expect this trend to continue for the full year.”
How about 2pure’s neighbour? “We’ve had a pretty good year so far,” Hotlines marketing manager Martin Astley tells BikeBiz. “A few brands in particular are going from strength-to-strength. WTB has revitalised its tyre and saddle ranges and the brand is really gaining big chunks of market share right now. They have some amazing new product and more to come. Lynskey has always been a great brand for us and it continues to
grow. iXS have really cemented their position as a market leader in protection over the last 18 months. The recent release of their Xult crossover helmet (pictured) is very exciting for us. There is plenty to be positive about!”
Hotlines will be at the NEC Cycle Show for the first time this year, following up its Core Bike Live appearance. “The show seems to be really strong now so we will be taking both Lapierre and Nukeproof this September,” says Astley. “We will also be attending the new Rouleur classic show in November. We will be exhibiting Gaerne shoes and Lynskey frames – Mark Lynskey himself is coming to the event to man the stand.”
If the Hotlines stalwart could change one thing about cycling in Scotland what would that be? “If you asked anyone in our office I’m pretty sure 99 per cent would say the weather! Scotland is blessed with some world class cycling both on and off road as well as some amazing international events. But the weather isn’t always the best!
“Both [Fort William and Tweedlove] are amongst the best in the world.
“It’d be nice to see the Tour start in Scotland one day though...”
DISTRIBUTION FOCUS: 2PURE AND HOTLINES
“It’d be nice to see the Tour start in Scotland one day...”Martin Astley, Hotlines
COMMUTER GENDER Just 4% of womenand 9% of men in theNorth and Scotlandcycle to work.
HELMETS64% of women cyclists wear a helmet during leisure/recreational riding in the North and Scotland.
2pure’s George Bowie
The new Xult crossover helmet from iXS, via Hotlines
While a large player in the outdoor sports market, Lyon Equipment has yet to make a big impression on the cycle industry. It’s no surprise to hear the company is keen to change all that, as BikeBiz finds out…
DESPITE THE UK cycle market being largely sports-based (or maybe because of that fact) the sector largely operates outside of the not-actually-all-that-different UK outdoors market. A quirky consequence means that some mayor players enjoy, perhaps bafflingly, a big profile in one and a small profile in the other.
Enter Lyon Equipment: Pitched as one of the UK’s leading outdoor equipment distribution companies, the firm is no small upstart. It’s based in the Lake District, the heart of the British outdoor world – and an area that is hardly a stranger to cycling with countless shops and hire companies on the doorstep.
Lyon’s been established for 50 years and has steadily grown in size and stature. Employing over 80 people and with a turnover exceeding £18m, Lyon Equipment moved into a new state-of-the-art facility in 2012, containing showrooms, marketing and
administration offices, manufacturing and warehousing all in one site. In addition to its distribution business, the Work and Rescue division provides equipment, training and certification for people working at height and for rescue teams.
Lyon Equipment is keen to point out that there are only a few
outdoor retailers that do not stock products from a brand it works with. But regardless, the company is relatively unknown in bikes; a situation that is about to change as Lyon Equipment ramps up its activity in this sector, it promises.
So, how is Lyon Equipment going to make good on that promise? The company is planning for growth in the cycle world by widening its bike-related product portfolio and investing in resources.
Lyon is the long-established exclusive distributor of Ortlieb waterproof products and Tubus bike racks has recently announced
the appointment of Nils Amelinckx as its dedicated cycle sales rep covering the UK and Ireland.
The company is also actively examining new opportunities for complementary brands: “We have a long track record of identifying new
brands and building these in the UK market.”
Lyon Equipment’s status in the outdoor industry bodes well for its cycle trade ambitions, the firm says.
“Our existing retail partners know that working with Lyon Equipment is like having a virtual stock room,” says Frank Bennett, sales and marketing director.
“We hold stock in depth, ready for next-day delivery, which gives retailers a tremendous extra resource – and of course helps financial performance. Our intention is to build our cycle-related product range further, offering bike retailers access to that compelling service and stock-holding package.”
Lyon Equipment’s self-stated mission is: “To provide equipment and expertise for people to venture further” and it promises that statement will apply equally across cycle and [email protected]; 015396 24040
The swanky Lyon Equipment HQ (not actually in Lyon)
“Working with Lyon Equipment is like having a virtual stock room.”Frank Bennett, sales and marketing director
Lyon who?
42 BB115 Lyon_final.indd 1 17/07/2015 14:47
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Ortlieb is distributed in the UK and Ireland by Lyon Equipment.
Super crankbrothersExtra UK took on crankbrothers distribution duties at the start of last year. Brand specialist Hannah Wilson
reveals how the firm is working closely with the brand to expand its share. Jonathon Harker reports…
The shy and retiring Cedric Gracia gets his CB transfer on
HOW’S BUSINESS for Crankbrothers and Extra?Crankbrothers is a great brand showing encouraging growth. We are happy with things so far and our first year of working together has been great. The brand has great market share in downhill with the Mallet DH as our hero product, but we are definitely looking for growth across other disciplines. We have seen increasing dealer presence and working with retailers is essential to developing the brand. I work partly for Extra UK and partly for crankbrothers themselves, providing regular feedback to the US product team and it’s really helping to drive the brand forward, working in close partnership. Feedback gives the brand an understanding of international requirements for products and marketing. Product testing outside California is also a key strategy before products come to market. Crankbrothers remains a US brand but it’s a global company and the products reflect this.
What product developments are on the way to market?Crankbrothers has always been design-focused with a strong desire to innovate so new product ideas are constantly being developed.
I’ve just got back from HQ in Laguna Beach, California and can confirm there are lots of exciting new things in the pipeline but you’ll have to wait and see!
There have been some changes to personnel over the past 12 months with Gaspare Licata leading the team. He has come from fi’zi:k and is possibly one of the most dedicated, dynamic and driven people I’ve ever met. He is a huge
asset to the company and under his leadership I see great things ahead. The product development team has also benefited with input from people with experience with other technical products from within and outside of the bike industry.
The brand is a keen event supporter. Any highlights so far? Attending international, national and regional races is an amazing opportunity; we get to meet riders of our products, talk to them about their riding and get feedback for
future developments. Getting to speak to riders across all of the categories is a real highlight for me.
Another highlight on a personal level is seeing the significant growth in the ladies’ categories. I hadn’t been to a DH race for several years and it’s great to see that there is really fierce competition. Hopefully the days of turning up as a female racer to an event and knowing before you start
your run you can make podium due to lack of other entrants are behind us. We support many top women with pedals and working with these athletes is a real highlight for me.
The MTB market is difficult to gauge, some people I speak to suggest that sales have all shifted towards road, but key MTB events sell out rapidly, the trail centres I ride at are busy and there is a really positive feel out there. The UK MTB market is very different to anywhere else in the world, for instance the mallet range is our top performing
pedal platform currently, elsewhere in the world candy and eggbeater are much more dominant.
Crankbrothers product is used by a number of big name riders...We are in the really privileged position that many of the big name riders choose to use our pedals. We are really proud of this and it is something want to make the most of. Some of our riders, such as Steve Peat, Greg Minnaar and Hans Rey have been working with crankbrothers for years and are part of the family. You may have noticed some top riders wearing a crankbrothers logo transfer at races. When they do and post a picture on social media with the #cb4others a donation is made to their chosen charity.
And what about the future for crankbrothers in the UK?I’m really excited about how things are progressing with the brand and it seems to be on a really positive trajectory. There has been a lot of change over at crankbrothers HQ and having spent some time with the team over in Laguna I am eager to see what they can do. It really is the right time to be working with the [email protected]
Tatt’s the way to do it: Pro riders have been getting in on the #cb4others charity act
“There’s been a lot of change and I see great things ahead for CB.”Hannah Wilton, Extra UK
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46 BIKEBIZ AUGUST BIKEBIZ.COM
46 BB115_final.indd 1 15/07/2015 16:20
RETAIL ONLY
ACCORDING TO my LinkedIn, it’s eight years since I joined BikeBiz. And I’ll admit, at times, when opening press release promising how product X will change my life in a totally unique, never seen or done before way, it feels like it could have been double that. But something invigorated me this month – the cynicism for marketing lingo temporarily gone.
I feel that there’s reason for optimism. Sure, there’s a lot of superfl uous creations and ‘standards’ kicking about, but in some cases, you can feel a genuine improvement. Perhaps it’s because, as a trade title,
we tend not to ‘review’ product as such, instead letting the retailer make an educated decision on what’s the real deal. But, once in a while, we too try product and, in a way, the greater intervals in between help us gauge what is a genuine improvement and what is marketing guff (as if it wasn’t obvious 99 per cent of the time).
In an odd twist, it feels like the UK electric market is beginning to move in that there’s visibly more on the
roads, even in relatively rural and fl at Hertfordshire. Design-wise, very few resemble the eyesores of old. The mid-motor is transforming handling and effi ciency and for a gradually improving price and serviceability for the dealer. The emergence of “speed pedelecs” further add possibility to this still evolving sector.
It’s early days still, but at fi rst I had assumed, like many other sceptics, that the 27.5+ wheel standard would be a fl ash in the pan test by the industry to add a few impulse buy sales. I now challenge you to tear one down some rooty singletrack and not come away grinning from ear to ear, curious whether there’s room in the shed for a +1.
Crowd funding too is beginning to show its worth. More award-winning products than ever are beginning life as humble projects seeking production funding. It’s genuinely interesting to see which creations go viral and as such, are instantly recognisable as either a sure fi re seller, or laughable in their design. The internet, in particular social media, may be cruel, but it’s also an incredibly precise tool for trend watching.
Even if it’s often challenging to make a decent living in the bike trade, at least when it’s time to roll home, we’re doing so aboard some truly incredible machines.
This month we’re eating up the trail thanks to plus size tyres and muck repellency from a household name in cleaning. Read on for more on some key fresh goods landing this month…
CUSTOMER MOANING that their gear isn’t keeping out the elements? Muc-Off may have the answer with its new Fabric Protect, which quickly and safely restores a fabric’s waterproofing with a durable, hydrophobic coating that bonds at an atomic level.
Forming an invisible barrier around fibres, the solution is safe for everything from leather to suede and dries leaving a colourless seal. To boot, it’ll even repel certain grime, including repelling oil, as well as allowing the fabric to retain its all-important breathability qualities.
CHARGE COOKER 27.5+ LINE Cycling Sports Group: 01202 732288
FOR 2016 charge has made a bold move on the Cooker front, introducing the 27.5+ wheel standard to its range, now spanning £699.99 to £2,999.99.
At the bottom of the line you have a fully rigid singlespeed Cooker 0. For £100 more, gears are introduced on the Cooker 1, which opts for 1x drivetrain up
front. A further £100 sees the addition of a suspension fork.
Top of the line is the stunning Cooker 5. This titanium framed build is again 1x11 spec, with Rock Shox up front. All of the builds are specced with WTB’s 27.5 specific tyres.
The entire line will be in stock with CSG by September.
FRESH TO Upgrade Bike’s stocks this month is the TRP full carbon CX/Gravel fork, retailing at £379.99.
Known as market leaders in brake technology with great success in their road/CX brakes SPYRE and HY-RD, the brand now has expanded into forks.Using its in-depth knowledge
in braking and how such forces affect a fork or frame, these are specifically built around the disc brake. Features include internal cable routing, a brake leg specific lay-up, a lower post mount for one-piece alloy to axle, 40mm tyre clearance and a low 450g weight. Furthermore, a 15mm DT Swiss Thru-Axle is included.
HAMAX ZENITH CHILD SEAT Zyro: 01325 741200
SHARING MANY features with the top-of-the-line Caress model, Hamax’s new Zenith range prioritises ease of use for parents, as well as safety for the child.
Now with Zyro, the Zenith carriers are designed lightweight with a one-hand operated harness, buckle and footrests, removable padding for easy
washing or replacing and a reflector in the back for extra visibility. The Zenith Relax model also offers up to 20 degrees of full seat recline for extra comfort.
The unique seat tube brackets used by Hamax allow for fitment around cable guides and alternative bar fitments are available to fit all sizes of bike.
We are open to third party software!Your customers can upgrade current trainers for FREE with the Tacx Utility app:
1) Download in the App store (iOS only), 2) Connect Smart trainer, 3) Upgrade firmware
Possible for Tacx Bushido Smart and Tacx Vortex Smart (Satori has manual control)
Future Smart models are already equipped
49 BB115_final.indd 1 15/07/2015 12:19
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SET UP as a social enterprise, Hub and Spoke is a very apt name for what is has become a focal point of the Harlow cycling community.
Run by volunteers ranging Bikeability standard instructors to an eclectic mix of bicycle-enthused mechanics, the not-for-profi t centre returns all revenues above its costs into engaging the locals in cycling. That’s anyone from school kids, to the local GlaxoSmithKline’s staff and even a 92-year-old fi xed gear rider, among countless others.
Much like the history of cycling in Harlow, Hub and Spoke’s journey has been a bit of a rollercoaster. In the 1970s, Harlow had a strong industrial scene and enjoyed a substantial modal share for cycling, so much so that when it was time for the factories to kick out, motor traffi c would often be brought to a halt to make way for the hoards of cyclists leaving. The legacy of this is 30 miles of cycle tracks in the town. Sadly, as the car has risen to prominence, cycling’s modal share has dipped drastically.
It could be about to turn a corner though, according to current Hub
and Spoke volunteer director Derek Mullan.
He told BikeBiz: “We had our funding cut in half by Essex County
Council in recent times. Though cycling is a force for good and returns many benefi ts, we were not exempt from some harsh cuts and so we’re
currently in the process of downsizing from two neighbouring units to just the one. It’s benefi cial in some ways, as we’ve had to become a bit more business minded in our approach and for the past two months we’ve seen a sharp upturn in takings – more than just a seasonal shift.”
With that in mind, retail has become a larger part of driving fi nances. Bikes typically sell from £25 for recycled kids builds, to £150 for the best adult bikes. There’s a graveyard for donated bikes where frames and components are assessed for safety before either being rebuilt or chopped in half.
“That’s a means to an end though,” explains Mullan. “Our primary goal is the social component. For example, we’ve taken on several people from disadvantaged backgrounds and trained them up to become Cytech mechanics who have gone on to get jobs in the industry. I worked in the NHS for many years and, obesity aside, the next big challenge is social isolation. With that in mind we’re engaging a big part of the elderly community in cycling again. In many
“We weren’t exempt from some harsh cuts, but it’s forced us to become more business minded...”
BIKEBIZ.COM BIKEBIZ AUGUST 51
Formerly a shining example of what’s achievable with the right infrastructure, Harlow’s cycling levels fell off a cliff when big industry left town. Mark Sutton talks to Hub and Spoke about reviving the local’s interest...
cases they’re engaging us, there’s something going on with the over 50s! I guess it’s because so many used to cycle in Harlow but gave it up.”
As the business becomes more retail focused, new bike sales are an avenue for exploration. However, with one new to fi ve recycled build currently sold, it’s events like the recent CTC organised Big Bike Revival that are giving the business a shot in the arm, says Mullan.
“That helped us actually stick some cash in our volunteers pockets. We did in the region of 250 bikes over the space of two weeks, which has helped out in terms of return custom too. Sadly the high-end market’s just not that strong in Harlow, so much so that on the off chance a high-spec build comes our way we turn to online and eBay – something that we’re looking to develop. What’s particularly fun for a lot of our volunteers and myself is spotting collectors items that have been discarded by those looking to clear relics out of sheds. Every now and then we’ll come across some ancient Campag and be able to revive it for a collector.”
The social effort extends to regular shop rides too, with around one per day at present led by one of the shop’s trained volunteers.
“These are anything from training new cyclists on the tennis courts over the road to 50-mile led rides. We’ve had some great success stories here, in particular one lady who became partially paralysed. When she came to us cycling was a dream. Six months
later we have her rehabilitated, able to cycle and leading some rides. Her progress has been immense to watch,” says Mullan.
There’s few operations like Hub and Spoke surviving in the UK, with London’s BikeWorks perhaps the closest neighbour of its kind. Despite the hefty funding cut, income from Essex County Council to develop its social components has been secured for the next three years, bringing at least some future stability.
“Our next task is to crank up the marketing ahead of Ride Harlow in August, which we hope will attract as many as 400 riders of all abilities on a guided cycle of the local networks. Going forwards we also hope to better develop our links with schools. The last round of 30 emails to head teachers only got one response, which we followed up on with free training sessions. With Harlow having an above average obesity rate, it’s important to get kids moving in an active way while they’re young.”
So what does the future hold given the shift in focus?
“We’ll no doubt soon have to be open fi ve days a week, as opposed to the current three,” says Mullan.
“The foundations are now here to take Hub and Spoke forward as a business and to give more back to cycling than ever. We’re run by good people and we’ve hired in some key experience too, so we’re hopeful we can contribute to upping cycling’s share again, locally, at least.”
STORE INFO:TELEPHONE:01279 431 333
FACEBOOK:facebook.com/HubandSpoke
WEB: hubandspokeharlow.co.uk
TWITTER:@spoke_hub
LOCATION:7 The Corner House, Bush Fair, Harlow, Essex CM18 6NZ
Combating obesity and social isolation, as well as training both mechanics and new cyclists are key goals for Hub and Spoke.
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IC28WATERPROOF
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IC29COLD WEATHER
Long known as the classicmaterial for overshoes neoprene
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Warm fleece lined inner with water repellent polyurethane outer for
wet weather use.
A technically advanced radical new three layer fabric that is both wind
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ELECTRIC BIKES
More Bosch for your dosh Bigger batteries with more capacity launched as brand recruits more staffers to support the UK e-bike market
BOSCH HAS revealed details of three new drive systems and battery, featuring higher capacities.
The new PowerPack 500 boasts 500 watt-hours (Wh) and a bigger capacity than the previous 300 and 400-Wh batteries, but in an identical housing. The power pack is bring touted by Bosch as one of the lightest on the market in its class and comes with the highest energy density, the brand said. The PowerPack 500 will enhance the performance of the new Performance Line, Performance Line CX and Active Line e-bikes signifi cantly, it said.
Other updates for 2016 include the Nyon computer being available for the fi rst time, in combination with the Active Line and as an upgrade kit for the Active Line and Performance Line.
The Performance Line CX has a higher torque and maximum assistance of up to 300 per cent.
The robust unit is black powder coated to protect from knocks and corrosion and is scratchproof and weatherproof, making it ideal for off-road. Speaking of which, Bosch said the Performance Line CX is easier to integrate into the frame
design of e-MTBs, with additional ground clearance and a 200g weight saving.
The Performance Line offers users a choice between a pedelec with the Cruise drive unit for speeds of up to 25 km/h or, for an S pedelec, the Speed drive unit with extra power assistance for speeds of up to 45 km/h. It is
designed for the sporting e-biker and those seeking a powerful ride, whether commuting or across diffi cult terrain.
The Active Line drive unit is pitched at everyday users, capable of long rides and commutes.
The Cruise drive unit delivers its ‘electrical tailwind’ for speeds of up to 25 km/h. It also comes with the aforementioned Nyon all-in-one on-board computer.
BOSCH BACKED IN BLIGHTYIn other Bosch-based news, the brand has extended its service network for European specialist
bicycle dealers with three new technical advisors, including one specifi cally for the UK market, one Mark Haylett.
Haylett has been in the role since May and has over 15 years’ industry experience of bicycle technology, production and distribution. He advises and trains bicycle dealers in maintenance, service and sales on behalf of Bosch eBike Systems.
The brand also has brought in new tech advisors for Austria and the Netherlands.
“Bosch e-bike dealers can now rely on even better local support on product-specifi c issues and innovations in the core market. They will also be able to offer their customers the latest in technology know-how.
“They are all good salesmen and can pass on the latest on all aspects of e-bike technology.”
According to Bosch, demand for e-bikes is brisk across Europe.
The PowerPack 500 and Nyon Computer are amongst the launches
“Bosch electric bike dealers can now rely on even better local support from us.”
Sponsored by
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ELECTRIC BIKES
Interbike to (literally) ramp up e-bike test track
FORD’S EXPERIMENTS in the world of electric bicycles are not over yet, according to the powerful global automobile company.
Back in March, Ford released a number of e-bike concept bike designs, including the MoDe:Me and MoDe:Pro (and the iOs app MoDe: Link). Now Ford has come up with the MoDe:Flex, designed to ‘expand smart mobility’ and ‘enhance multimodal journey’. Crucially, the Flex folds and can be adapted for road, MTB or urban riding. As you’d expect, Ford is keen to point out the Flex can be folded and stored inside any Ford vehicle – where it can be charged while stowed.
In fact the Flex is not really a folder – it disconnects at the front and rear for easy storage, or can be reconfi gured and pulled along. The battery slides out of the bike for remote charging, or it can be plugged into a vehicle outlet.
Bruce Williams, Ford’s lead designer and engineer for
MoDe:Flex, has integrated Ford’s latest LED lighting into the body of the bike. Taking a cue from the ‘jewel-like’ lens featured on the new F-150 and Ford GT, Williams used a smaller version of the lighting tech to power the headlight and taillight on the bike.
“The LED lighting is effi cient and detailed in a way never before done in the bike world,” claimed Williams. “The lens elements are very small, but throw a lot of light. The design is seamless.”
The app helps identify the most effi cient and cost-effective mode of transport for a journey, taking in real-time traffi c information, parking costs, weather, and eyes-free navigation. Conceivably then this Ford app could advise the user to leave their car at home and hop on their e-bike instead. The app also works with smartwatches, including a “no sweat” mode, which increases electric pedal assist based on heart rate – so riders can arrive at destinations sweat-free.
E-BIKES ARE good at hills, so why do so many e-bike test tracks cover a short and fl at route? It seems the minds at Interbike have also considered this point and, with the backing of circuit-sponsor Shimano, have included inclines and twists and turns in their test track.
The improved track is also thanks a strategic partnership with Extra Energy Services North America (EESNA) and will be used not just for e-bikes, but also for fatbikes and urban/lifestyle bikes. EESNA designed and will produce the circuit that will feature a 15-foot wide loop that travels over 1,000 feet, featuring s-curves and a
hairpin return. An eight-foot wide e-bike Power Ramp will provide a 34-foot incline rising up to four feet to an eight feet long platform
before the decline on a matching 34-foot down ramp.
For fatbike test riders there will be a dedicated Terrain Lane, with engineered ramps and obstacles. A non-woven fl oor covering will
eliminate the challenge of the polished concrete exhibition fl oor.
“With the addition of the new hall and space at Mandalay
Bay it’s allowing us to create a legitimate, professional test track facility on the show fl oor in a cool, comfortable environment”, said Pat Hus, Vice President of Interbike. “We’re investing a lot here and
we’re confi dent that the track is going to be a game changer and a new feature of the show that will be very important for years to come.”
Shimano has introduced its STEPS system and is looking to this test track as a way to support the growing market in North America.
“This track will provide the perfect setting for Shimano to showcase its STEPS E-bike groupset,” said Dustin Brady, Shimano American marketing manager. “We’re looking forward to engaging with retailers through this new and innovative feature of Interbike.”www.interbike.com
“We’re confi dent that the track is going to be a game changer.”Pat Hus, Interbike
Ford’s back with a new e-bike
Sponsored by
Interbike’s revamped electric circuit
Ford refi nes e-bike range with smartwatch that measures heart rate and can tell when you need more pedal assistance to stop you arriving sweaty
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OFF ROAD
MTB &Clothing
Customer based made up of largely mud-dwelling creatures? Mark Sutton looks at
some key mountain bike products landing with distributors at present...
ASSOS
0203 2862225
Having partnered with Cape Epic, touted as the ultimate mountain bike stage race, Assos has gone to great lengths to ensure their MTB jerseys are ideally suited to long days in the countryside. Pictured is the £125 Cape Epic Evo7, composed of 66 per cent polyester, 25 per cent polyamide and 9 per cent elastane. The combination works to provide a close-fi tting, high-wicking jersey perfect for warmer conditions.
BOB ELLIOT
01772 459 887
Windproof, water resistant and breathable, three qualities you’d look for in a winter jacket when hacking through the woods and all of which come with Funkier’s WJ-1322 soft shell.
The TPU membrane contains micro pores 1,000 times smaller than a drop of water, but 100 times bigger than a molecule of moisture vapour. Water droplets cannot penetrate, but moisture vapour can escape.
HOTLINES
0131 319 1444
iXS has just launched its new Xult helmet. Crossing the line between a full DH race helmet and an enduro helmet, the full-face lid is made with a fi bre reinforced polymer shell with EPS liner and an additional layer of Xmatter foam to reduce rotational low speed impact forces. At just 1,125 grams and with a clever venting system, it’s a great option for enduro racers looking for maximum protection.
DAWES 0121 748 8050
A limited edition entry to the Dawes 2016 catalogue comes in the form of the £429.99 XC27, described as offering the “best spec possible” for the money. Delivering 100mm of Suntour XCT suspension and Altus 27-speed gearing, it’s ready for adventure.
MOORE LARGE 01332 274200
One of the more innovative approaches to protection having emerged in the past ten years is G-form, whose padding hardens under impact, yet remains soft and comfortable otherwise. Low profi le and easily worn even under jeans, the Poron XRD material and proprietary padding instantly stiffens upon impact, absorbing over 90 per cent of the energy. A wide range of protective garments are stocked by Moore Large.
The Diamondback 2016 range sees two complete ranges of MTB for the European market, the SYNC sport range and the HEIST expert level range. For 2016, all Diamondback MTB feature 27.5” wheels, the ideal wheel size for a fast yet precise handling bike. Pictured is the entry level £325 Sync, sporting an 100mm fork, discs and a newly designed frame with DNA from the Myers all-mountain catalogue.
ROCK SHOX
RALEIGH/FISHER
Available from October, Rock Shox 2016 Lyric offers everything you love in Pike in a stiffer, more capable, longer travel option. It’s built on a stiffer, yet lightweight 35mm chassis, equipped with the world-acclaimed Charger Damper, featuring a new Torque Cap and Boost compatibility. The lyric is available in 160mm-180mm travel options for 27.5” and 150mm-160mm for 29”.
ZYRO
01325 741200
Altura has developed a new MTB performance fi t glove with hard-wearing, breathable and wicking Altura Dry mesh upper hand fabric and a supple Clarino synthetic leather palm for increased contact with the bar. The Attack180 Glove features a strapless stretch wrist cuff construction ensuring a snug and comfortable fi t with the silicon cuff puller tab making getting them on and off quick and easy.
SILVERFISH
01752 843882
As well as highly regarded bike bags, back packs and luggage, Evoc also produces a range of protective clothing.
The Evoc Protector Vest range, for example, offers various levels of protection. The Protector Vest Air+, retailing at £139.95, is a ventilated protector vest as well as functional jersey, all in one. The protector pad is detachable and the jersey is helpfully fully machine washable.
PALIGAP
01454 313116
The MKII Series from Amplifi encompasses next level material tech. The Armourgel used is made in the UK and is used in the military for protection.So far, Paligap’s best seller in the protection line is the MKII knee. A slip-on design means no need for fl apping Velcro adjusters, simply a product that ensures a fl exible well vented and low profi le lay-out with added abrasion resistance over the Armourgel core.
SPORTLINE 01908 326000
The £3,699.99 Kili Flyer is Sportline’s fl agship trail bike running 130mm travel and optimised for the descents. The chassis is built using a mixture of Toray 24T/40T UD carbon and features the TRL (Tuned Ride Link) suspension platform.
Inspect your gadget Cameras, chargers to keep you juiced up during your ride…there’s a wealth of gadget options out
there for cyclists. Jonathon Harker connects to some of those available now…
MOORE LARGE
01332 274252
Knog’s [qudos] action is pitched as the world’s fi rst hi-powered action video light designed with the GoPro in mind (or any other camera using similar mounts). It delivers a weighty 400 lumens of light from three Cree LEDs. At 150 grams, the action light has multiple modes to adjust brightness and light speed, allowing users to control their shots in any scene or location – whether deep underwater, high in the sky, or anywhere in between.The [qudos] action retails at £89.99.
ZEFAL
Various
There’s no shortage of smartphone holders on the market, but amongst the latest is this offering from Zefal. The Z Console Lite secures to the bike using a double lock system, which offers a secure hold even over rough terrain. The 360 degree rotating support means phones can be mounted either in portrait or in landscape for fi lming and a sealing rain-cover comes with the package. It’s newly available for the iPhone 6 & 6 Plus.
Zefal comes to the UK cycle trade via Bob Elliot, Chicken CycleKit and Fisher Outdoor Leisure.
CRANKMONKEY www.powertraveller.com
In an age where most of us are hopelessly dependent on battery power, there’s little doubt this pocket-sized crankmonkey will come in handy for anyone that spends some time in the saddle. The key draw here is that you don’t have to remember to charge your spare battery as Crankmonkey provides charge through, well, crank power. RRP is £99.
MADISON www.madisonb2b.co.uk
Shimano entered the sports camera market just over a year ago with a compact, lightweight offering. Featuring a 16 MP back-illuminated CMOS image sensor for 1080p HD, the camera has a F2.0 bright lens that can handle low-light conditions. There are a couple of angle modes available – standard 135 deg and super wide 180 deg – and multiple recording modes. It can connect via Wi-Fi, ANT and ANT private – and to a smartphone for live views. An underwater lens protector is included.
BIKEBIZ.COM BIKEBIZ AUGUST 63
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WEDNESDAY 23RD SEPTEMBER 2015CROWNE PLAZA, BIRMINGHAM NEC
For sponsorship opportunities contact:[email protected] or call +44 (0)1992 535647
RECOGNISING EXCELLENCE
WITHIN THE UK CYCLE TRADE
Now in their eighth year, the BikeBiz Awards celebrate the UK cycle industry and the people and companies whose hard work behind the scenes keeps the cycle world’s wheels turning There are retail prizes to honour high achieving chain stores, local independent shops and giant online retailers; awards for the distributors and wholesalers; accolades for the brands themselves and also for those providing essential services to the industry, from training to advocacy and beyond.
The BikeBiz Awards night is also the perfect opportunity for the trade to make new business contacts
and hobnob with the rest of the industry.
Set the day before the NEC Cycle Show’s trade day – located just a stone’s throw away at the Crowne Plaza hotel at the NEC – it’s ideal for anyone after a hard day of setting up their stands or for anyone
travelling up to the show.
SEE YOU THERE
BB Awards2015 PrintAd_v1.indd 1 16/07/2015 17:22
LIGHTS
Lumennature
The light market is a broad church, with product targeting roadies, off-road fanatics and commuters alike. Jonathon Harker pinpoints
a host of those from some of the brightest players in the market…
Nite Rider’s light line-up has been added to with the Lumina 800 and 600 OLED. The clever lights display the battery run time and power remaining as well as the Light Mode Level. The Intellicharge feature reduces charge time by half while backlit buttons make for an easy-to-use interface in any lighting condition. They can be whipped off the handlebar strap mount with the quick release tab.
FISHER OUTDOOR LEISURE
b2b.fi sheroutdoor.co.uk
Now with Fisher, the Bookman light set (£14.99) is a slim, quality light package that’s easy to mount thanks to the elastic pull. Fisher also brings Dosun, including the Dosun RC and DC100 USB rechargeable light set (£34.99) inc one of the smallest USB rechargeable lights. Smart’s 700 Lumen USB light (£49.99) is compact, weather proof and tough to boot.
EXPOSURE
01798 839300
Combined front and rear lights, the Link and Link+ are both new, pitched at commuters, roadies and even MTBers after a bit of light to be seen by on the way home from the trails. There’s also a new £75 commuter light, provisionally called ‘The Switch’, capable of kicking out 375 lumens.The Strada is coming out later this summer (former version pictured). XPL LEDs on all main lights have been upgraded too.
EXTRA UK extrauk.co.uk
Extra UK is stocking new LED brand Cygolite. The range includes three front lights (Metro, Streak, Dash) from 310 to 500 lumens, starting at £55.99. There are two rear lights (Hotshot SL, Hotshot Micro) and a pack combining the Streak and Hotshot (£84.99).
Bob Elliot’s Smart line-up includes the rechargeable Front USB headlight (BL185USB-01) boasting 700 Lumens/170 Lux of power. The lithium-ion battery is of course rechargeable via a mini USB and there’s a high/low function and a variance in according running times (1.5hr, 3hr or 20hr). An indicator tells the user when the battery is low or fully charged, while an overcharge protection circuit keeps the battery safe from over-juicing (technical term).
Get your name around, remind your customers where they bought their bike or accessories and where to
take it for a service.Any size, shape up to 60x40mm, 1-3 colours include laminate so no scratching. 500 £92 1000 £120 2000 £165 Origination £30
www top tube stickers up to 20x150mm. 1 colour on clear
500 £105 1000 £145 2000 £190 Origination £20
Sales - Service - Setup - Repairs
Serviced By -
Tel. 01479 870 050
LONGHAM, 01202 590414
RINGWOOD, 01425 470835
www.cycle-world.co.uk
Visit our new website
Bike Frame Stickers
For a sporty riding style maximizing control. Dual Density, adjustable and with cooling lamellas for extra comfort.
Building the best parts for your bike is in our nature…
Rib Lock
www.herrmans.eu
Meet us at theEurobike Show
Hall A7, Stand 50326. – 29.08.2015
66 BIKEBIZ AUGUST BIKEBIZ.COM
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BIKEBIZ.COM BIKEBIZ AUGUST 67
LIGHTS
MADISON www.madisonb2b.co.uk
Madison says it now has a light for everyone. Infi ni has seen sales grow at a terrifi c rate, particularly for the diminutive USB rechargeable Lavas, available in a host of bold colours. This season sees the introduction of the Aria in two guises: three red LEDS for £9.99, or as the front/rear back up, the same light can either have one super bright white LED or two red LEDs (£10.99).
The second generation Electron POD features a lithium-Ion polymer battery, rechargeable via micro USB. It boasts 50 lumens for the front unit, and 15 for the rear (£24.99 each or £44.99 twinpack). This season Light and Motion has introduced two new models, the Deckhand and Sidekick. The Deckhand is a fl ashlight with a high-capacity lithium-ion rechargeable battery that can plug into a USB port. It’s an action camera companion light.
PALIGAP
www.paligap.cc
Portland Design Works (PDW) creates good looking, simple gear for everyday cycling. Designed with intention in every detail, PDW products are helpfully produced in consideration of cost, aesthetics, durability and rebuildability. The brand says it has a light range to suit every pocket, with lights that feature high quality parts from Nichia, Seiko, and Texas Instruments.
From basic commute lights (including the Fenderbot mudguard mounted rear light), through to high-powered USB rechargeable front (Lars Rover 450 & 650) and rear lights (Aether Demon), PDW has something for everyone and all pockets, Paligap says, backed up by a full range of spares and quality margins.
MOORE LARGE 01332 274252
Sigma’s got a new Brakelight range in fi ve colours. The tiny effi cient lights are for all mechanical cable operated brakes, the lights being operated by the brake lever on the handlebar. It is mounted using a Hex screw clamping onto the inner cable of the rear brake.
Knog has a whopping 21 new lights in three new ranges. At entry level there are the AA-battery powered POP lights, with side illumination, rotating rear light, strong beam and good runtimes. Most striking about them is the fact they look unlike any other bike light out there, with prints and patterns including leopard skin, tattoo and many more. Knog’s Blinder MOB evolves the Blinder 4 with a stronger and interchangeable silicone and multiple size straps. They use fi ve types of LED tech for different fl ash patterns. At the performance end, the Blinder Road and Arc have both had a revamp, inside and out. New LEDs and batteries are featured, the Arc now at 640 lumens. The cases have more colours too for matching to bike frames.
HOPE 01282 851200
Hope has been busy over the summer improving existing lights and developing new ones.
The new two LED light is available in two versions, the R2 and R2i. Both use two Cree LEDs giving out 1,400 lumens (1,000 measured) with the R2 using Hope’s familiar separate two cell lithium ion battery pack, whereas the R2i uses a new integrated battery pack with the same two cell batteries housed inside.
The R4 has also had improved LEDs fi tted and now gives 2,000 lumens (1,500 measured) on maximum power.
All three lights now use an illuminated switch showing the current brightness setting and batteries with a built in battery gauge. The R8 and District rear remain unchanged.
The Magnic Light is a clever bit of kit: a touchless dynamo bike light that works on aluminium rims. A tiny 60g-light unit will generate never-ending bright light without any batteries, without wheel-contact, without cables, and without noticeable resistance. How does it work? It uses so-called eddy current technology, drawing energy from the rotating bicycle wheels without any physical contact, and so without friction. Eddy currents created by strong magnets spin a generator inside each light unit. A set consists of two front and one rear lights with various fi tting brackets available for all kinds of bicycles. They feature a stand light function to keep them powered for a few minutes.
ZYRO
www.zyrob2b.co.uk
Blackburn’s range includes the 2’FER (£16.99). The white front light runs on high (60 lumen) for two hours or strobe for six hours. The red rear produces 20 lumen on high for three hours or nine hours in strobe mode. It features mode memory so you don’t have to cycle, ahem, to fi nd the right mode every time.
Cateye’s 2015 Volt series goes from 100 to 6,000 lumen. The diverse range features longer run times and higher performance at every level. Highlights include the Volt 6000 (£649.99) with a wide beam pattern and COB tech. Cateye’s Rapid ‘X’ Series for 2015 features fresh LED tech, 180° visibility and the latest lens and refl ector technology available.
RALEIGH
01773 532600
RSP has new high output front lights including the RX500, featuring a Cree T6 LED that generates 500 lumen, complete with a battery level indicator and aircraft aluminium alloy case (£39.99) while the RX200 has a 200 lumen output (for £29.99).
Moon has a wealth of new models, including the all-new LX front light series with three new models: LX760, LX 560 and LX360. Branded batteries (Panasonic and Samsung) are used, each featuring a wide beam pattern and side visibility, ideal for the regular rider and commuter. The lightweight lights come as standard with handlebar and helmet brackets and new remote switch. Moon’s Nebula generates 100 lumen and a 50 chip COB combo.
UPGRADE BIKES 01403 711 611
Lezyne’s Strip Drive Rear (£29.99) is an all-new highly visible safety light. Co-moulded to seal it against the fi lthy UK weather, there’s a Memory Mode function so the light always returns to the last mode used whenever turned on. Aero seat post compatible, the rubber end cap conceals an integrated USB stick for cable-free recharging of the Li-Poly battery. Meanwhile, the Micro Drive 400XL (£39.99) is more powerful than ever and ideal for commuting, road or MTB helmet mounting. The lightweight and sturdy light has 180° degrees visibility and economy ‘Femto’ mode.
WHERE BRANDS COME TO LIFEAre you looking for new partnerships that could transform your business? BLE 2015 is the only event in Europe where you can meet hundreds of leading brand owners and discover thousands of the hottest brands, characters and images available for license.
Whether you are a retailer, licensee or sales promotion professional a visit to BLE 2015 will open up a world of new opportunities and partnerships. Don’t miss this chance to spot the next big thing for your business.
See brands come to life at BLE 2015. Register for FREE today, visit www.brandlicensing.eu
HARDNUTZ Unit 8 Rocheview off Millhead Way, Purdeys Industrial Estate, Rochford, Essex, SS4 1LB Tel: 01702 530090 Web: www.hardnutz.com
HOTLINES EUROPE LTD Unit 17 The Loan, Viewforthbank Industrial Estate, South Queensferry, EH30 9SD Tel: 0131 319 1444 Web: www.hotlines-uk.comwww.hotlines-europe.com
I-RIDE 7-8B Mid Sussex Business Park, Ditchling Common Industrial Estate, Folders Lane East, Ditchling, Sussex, BN6 8SE Tel: 01444243000 Web: www.i-ride.co.uk
JUNGLE PRODUCTS LTD Unit 3, The Cedar, New York Mills,Summerbridge, HG3 4LA Tel: 01423 780088 Web: www.jungleproducts.co.uk andwww.santacruzbikes.co.uk
M & J DISTRIBUTORS LTD Unit A, Hanix Buildings, Windmill Lane, Denton, Manchester, M34 3SP Tel: 0161 337 9600 Web: www.mjdist.co.uk
MARA MEDIA Unit 5 Teach na Rosann, Annagry,County Donegal, Rep of Ireland Tel: 353 (0) 74 954 8935 Web: www.maramedia.ie
atg training
for your future...
ATG TRAINING - HEAD OFFICE Future Centre, Smeaton Close, Aylesbury,Bucks, HP19 8SZ Tel: 01296 737815 Web: www.atg-training.co.uk
ANSMANN UK e-BIKE centre, Unit 12, RO24, Harlow Business Park, Harlow, Essex, CM19 5QB Tel: 0870 609 2233 Web: www.ansmann.co.uk
BIKE SOUP 55a North Wharf Road, London, W2 1LA Tel: 020 72982784 Web: www.bikesoup.com
BOB ELLIOT AND CO LTD Unit C4 Binary Court, Matrix Park, Western Avenue, Buckshaw Village, Chorley, PR7 7NB Tel: 01772 459 887 Web: www.bob-elliot.co.uk
SILVERFISH UK LTD Unit 3C and 3B Woodacre Court, Saltash Parkway Industrial Estate, Burraton Road, Saltash, Cornwall, PL12 6LY Tel: 01752 843882 Web: www.silverfish-uk.com
SQUIRT Unit 10 Quadrum Park, Old Portsmouth Road, Peasmarsh, Surrey, GU3 1LU Web: www.in2dust.co.uk
THE CYCLE DIVISION Unit 27 Gatehouse Enterprise Centre, Albert Street, Lockwood, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD1 3QD Tel: 01484 456137 Web: www.thecycledivision.com
CYCLE SHOW, THE 58 White Lion Street, Islington, London, N1 9PP Tel: 020 7288 6733 Web: www.cycleshow.co.uk
The BikeBiz Directory 2015 is out now, providing the industry with a must-haveguide to the UK’s retailers, distributors, manufacturers and related businesses.
BikeBiz Directory 2015 is now available to view online at
“RE: Road tax resurrected. File under ‘really not helping’.”@fromOliver
@bikebizonline
BikeBiz is keen to publish your opinions, whether you send them via email, Facebook, Twitter, BikeBiz.com or post…
This month the lucky winner will receive a Commuter X4 personal
illumination system…
STAR COMMENT
Straw Poll: Has 2015 been a vintage year for bike sales?
WITH THE nation’s meteorological fortunes relatively unpredictable, Britain is naturally a country obsessed with the weather. For the people of the bike trade, the fi xation with the forecast could understandably reach fever pitch with sales performance and profi ts so inextricably linked to how much rain we’ve had to put up with.
So, how are we doing so far in 2015? According to the Met Offi ce, June has seen temperatures near or just below normal overall, but outside of the South East temperatures have been “in general noticeably below average, continuing on from the rather cool May”. Meanwhile, early July has seen something of a heatwave for much of the UK. How has that translated to sales for the bike trade? According to our latest straw poll, the sales picture is typically mixed.
We asked “How are your 2015 sales compared to last year?” The majority of respondents (32 per cent) said their business was signifi cantly down on this time last year. The second largest number of responses said they were slightly
up on this time last year (28 per cent). Taking a broader perspective, the stats were as balanced as they possibly could be; 44 per cent responded that sales were up (signifi cantly and slightly) while 44 per cent said sales were down (signifi cantly and slightly) with the remaining 12 per cent saying sales were about the same as they were last year. So, not much insight to be gleaned from this month’s poll in general terms, but there were a few telling comments made by the survey takers. One retailer told us they were seeing fewer people through the door, echoing the words of sales rep John Styles (“Showrooming is the least of your worries”, June 23d, BikeBiz.com). Another shop said the mixed weather had hampered their performance while one detailed: “March 2015 onwards is signifi cantly up year-on-year, particularly in March and April, but that is only compensating for a very poor October 14 to February 15.”
Send in your comments to:[email protected] or take partin next month’s poll at tinyurl.com/bikebizpoll
32% - Sales are signifi cantly down on this time last year
12% - Sales are slightly down on this time last year
12% - Sales are about the same as last year (so far)
28% - Sales are slightly up on this time last year
16% - Sales are signifi cantly up on this time last year
32%
28%
16%
12%12%
73 BB115 Community_final.indd 1 17/07/2015 12:57
MARKETPLACE TO ADVERTISE IN THESE PAGES PLEASE [email protected] OR CALL 01992 535647
BIKES & ACCESSORIESBIKES & ACCESSORIES
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MARKETPLACE TO ADVERTISE IN THESE PAGES PLEASE [email protected] OR CALL 01992 535647
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For dealer opportunities and pricing information, call the UK Trade Distributor Bike Tyrestore on Freephone 0800 281 413 or email [email protected] www.rubenacycle.co.uk
Cycling has had its ups and downs. This month’s stats reveal that participation is up, but is a return to our 1940s peak out of reach?And can we stem the rise in cycle casualties?
NUMBER CRUNCHING
12 YEARS
That’s how long Chicken
CycleKit has been distributing
KMC product into the UK. Last
month the fi rm won the ‘Top
European Distributor’
award from the
brand.
FIVEFisher scored fi ve (count ‘em)
awards at the Troy Lee International Distributor annual dinner in
California last month.
OFF TRACKOFF TRACKTHE TRADE’S ROUND UP OF STATS, VIEWS AND RANDOMS
Over one-fi fth of U18s in the UK cycle; this compares to one sixth of adults
1940SIn the 1940s, 20 per cent of commutes were made
on bike. Now that fi gure is four per cent. Evans Cycles said it believes the UK can get back to its ‘40s peak
by 2030.
8%Cycle serious injuries rose eight per cent in 2014 and that was just the ones that
were reported. The DfT admitted there is “an ever increasing problem with pedal cyclist casualties”.
What projects are keeping you busy at present?Largely it’s development of new products and ensuring
we maintain and enhance all our existing cycle products
to continue delivering market-leading solutions. Also,
I am making the most of this great weather by being
out on the bike as much as possible and then having to
squeeze in the all the domestic duties thereafter.
How can bike retailers link with Cycleguard? By
signing up to our Partnership scheme, bike dealers can
not only help keep their customers cycling but also
generate some extra income at the same time. We
offer every partner a commission for all referrals that
generate new business policies and each renewal. And if
a customer referred by you submits an approved claim,
we give your store the fi rst option to repair or replace.
Why choose to work with Cycleguard over a competitor? For over 15 years we’ve been providing
specialist cycle insurance cover for all types and level of
cyclist. Throughout this time we’ve also worked closely
with hundreds of IBDs, developing an understanding of
the market and their needs. I believe our experience and
passion for the industry sets us apart from the competition
and is why dealers should choose to work with us.
IN THESADDLE
Adrian Scott, Head of Cycleguard
OVER 50 per cent of the riders for Mountain Mayhem 2015 were new to the event and Mini Mayhem for the Juniors was up 43 per cent y-o-y, all encouraging stuff for an event that had a squeaky moment or two in the build up. According to organiser Pacifi c Edge Events, Go Outdoors stepped in as title sponsors “at the eleventh hour and saved the event”. Happily it all ended well and over 1,500 riders and 12,000 people visited Gatcombe Park for the weekend. www.mountain-mayhem.com
LOOK WHO’S CLIMBING AGAINLOOK BIKES’ Fisher representative Alan Lewis is new to the role at the distributor, but he’s clearly already a very keen cyclist judging by his efforts to ride a large hill on the outskirts of Oswestry 50 times. Yes, fi fty. It was all in the aid of the Isabelle Lottie Foundation that Lewis climbed a total of 29,000 feet. The challenging multiple climb has already taken place but Lewis is organising an Oswestry to the Coast Midnight Ride on August 1st to further boost reserves for the charity. Find out more at mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/alanlewis2
BICYCLE BOOK BOOSTERTWO BIKES in a Shed is the name of a new children’s book that has already been warmly received by the CTC despite only launching this summer. In a nutshell, the book aims to alleviate the anxiety of cycling unaided for the fi rst time. Told in rhyme, this confi dence booster might just help little ‘uns take the, er, leap from balance bikes to pedal cycles, so we’re all for it. Find out more at www.seriouscomedy.co.uk
Daniel Gillborn is director of Cyclescheme, the UK’s leading provider oftax-free bikes for work. You can reach him on Twitter @cycleschemeltd
COMMUTING HAS a purpose. Everyone,
just about, has to work, and commute to
work, in order to live. We want to help
you turn that fundamental purpose into a
behavioural change that gets more people
on bikes. By creating a specifi c event in
the bike calendar – Cycle to Work Day on
September 3rd – we are creating a free
sales vehicle that you can hop on board.
There is exciting news for this year’s
event: we’re working with Denise Van
Outen as the brand ambassador to raise
the profi le of cycling to work by bike.
The day and the support of a household
name celebrity is a catalyst to tip new and
existing cyclists to come into your bike
shop to take part. It’s your opportunity to
meet a new customer. They may not be
riding one of your bikes yet, but offer them
your support, and fi x up their trusty steed
with all the parts and accessories they
need, and they are likely to buy their next
bike from you as a result. If they need a
bike you can get them on this year’s model
at a fraction of the cost.
We need you to support the day and
celebrate commuting by bike. We will
promote your store’s participation – you
could offer free bike health checks,
organise a ride to the local business park,
generate a press release or open early and
offer free coffees. It will generate interest
in your local community and with local
employers to get new people into your
store. Get started by pledging your support
at www.cycletoworkday.org.
Daniel Gillborn, Director
Sponsored by the brands ofMoore Large 01332 274252
“Vehicle Excise Duty is a tax on pollution: those cars which create the most greenhouse gases are taxed most heavily. Siphoning that revenue into a new Roads Fund will inevitably lead to further pollution and undermines its
original purpose.”Jason Torrance, policy director, Sustrans
QUOTE UNQUOTEFor more on these stories, head to www.BikeBiz.com
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN AT UPGRADE?
I started in April this year.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED IN THE INDUSTRY? I set my own wheel company up in 2011 where
I built carbon wheels and imported boutique
cross tubes while I was at University, then joining
Upgrade has been my fi rst full time role.
WHAT’S THE BEST THING ABOUT WORKING IN THE CYCLE INDUSTRY? I get to work with exciting people and products
as well as design ideas which become reality. The
industry is booming and I love the pace of things,
oh and there’s some satisfaction in being very “in
the know“. And of course I get to ride products
I’ve worked on!
WHAT’S THE BEST AND THE WORST PART OF YOUR JOB?
I’ll start with the worst, lack of riding time at the
WITH VIRTUOUS dumpster-diving, hundreds of spelt-based micro-breweries, and a vegan strip-club, Portland is where young people go to retire, joked Portlandia, the U.S. comedy series that, fi ve seasons in, satirises Oregon’s largest and hippest city. Portland also has a thriving tall-bike scene, people move house with cargo-bikes not removal vans, and the city is home to the Sprockettes, a women-only BMX-based dance troupe.
When Islabikes wanted an HQ in the US from which to springboard, Portland was the natural choice. Upscale cycle-apparel brand Showers Pass is Portland born and bred. Chris King Precision Components, Nutcase Helmets and Ruckus Components all hail from Portland. There are 40 artisanal frame makers in the city and 60 bike shops. Cyclist-and-hipster-friendly kilt manufacturer Stumptown Kilts helps organise an annual kilted bike ride (Portland is nicknamed Stumptown because it grew up so quickly and so haphazardly that the Victorians left tree-stumps embedded in the streets – the stumps are long gone, but Portland’s staccato street grid is one of the reasons for its bike-friendliness). Portland’s version of the World Naked Bike Ride attracts 10,000 cyclists, many of them nubile young men and women.
In short, Portland is paradise for those who pedal. Or, at least that’s the popular impression of Portland. When you’re on the ground (and I was on the ground giving a talk at Velo Cult; part-bike shop, part-tavern, part-MTB museum) it’s surprising to fi nd that America’s
leading bicycling city has precious few protected bike lanes, local bicycle advocates despair that the city’s much-vaunted “bicycle boulevards” are next to useless in peak periods because motorists muscle cyclists out of the way, and the Keep-Portland-Weird bikeyness is nowhere near as universal as Portlandia portrays.
Bike commuters may dominate in some bohemian enclaves but across the city they make up just six percent of the total. This is stellar by US standards – ten times the norm, in fact – but in comparison with, say, Copenhagen, it’s not even in the same galaxy. Stats can be misleading though.
When riding around Portland it’s clear this is a city where, in certain areas, cycling is perfectly normal, not just for getting to work but for running errands or riding to a night out. Bars and shops have bike-corrals (rows of cycle parking hoops instead of car parking spaces) and the light rail system is geared up to take bikes. Portland’s six percent modal share has to be seen in context – in 1990 it was just one percent. Between 2000 and 2008 the civic authority’s proactive bicycle programme helped add the other fi ve percent, and the city has held it at that level ever since. Ten percent of kids cycle to school, nine percentage points higher than the U.S. national average.
Portland’s rich and diverse cycling cultures will easily maintain the existing modal share. The civic goal is to increase it to 25 percent within the next decade, and that is a tough ask, even for a city that spawned Pedalpalooza, an annual 250-event from-the-street bike festival.
To increase cycling’s modal share it’s obvious that Portland’s car-use would have to be restricted, and hard infrastructure for cyclists would have to be built. Cycle use would then explode, profi ting Portland’s numerous bicycle businesses, making the city even more liveable, and not just for cyclists in gluten-free kilts.
And what would work for Portland would work for many other cities, too, including in the UK. Portland’s hipster vibe may be easy to spoof but its penchant for cycling is a key part of the future for urbanites everywhere.
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“It’s surprising to fi nd that America’s leading bicycling city has precious few protected
bike lanes.”
Welcome to Portland, welcome to the futureCarlton Reid journeys to Portland, USA, shamefully keeps his kit on during the city’s World Naked Bike Ride and believes the hipsters are on to something.
Portland’s Pedalpalooza is part of the cycle culture
You don’t win by being the lightest. Or the stiffest. Or the toughest. You win by being the fastest. And that takes a wheel designed specifically for the modern mountain biker. At SRAM, we start with the demands of the terrain and work forward from there—carefully balancing each wheel’s design around five key attributes: weight, inertia, engagement, stiffness and durability. No matter where you ride, SRAM wheels will take you further.
SRAM ROAM 60
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SRAM RAIL 50
NEW FOUND SPEEDSRAM travelled to Finale Ligure, Italy with 2013 Enduro World Series Champion Jérôme Clementz to test SRAM ROAM 60, ROAM 50 and RAIL 50 wheels. Jérôme found that each wheel set offers unique characteristics that will benefit him during the hugely varying terrain of the EWS.
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