BIkeBiz #103 August 2014

THE SMARTSIN CYCLING

NEW

INTRODUCING THE NEW

BRIGHT. SMART. SAFE.

NEW

Issue 103 | August 2014

Connect. Ride. Share. Featuring a Mirror Mode, the Strada Smart displays ride data tracked on your phone and alerts you to calls and emails. Our Sensor Direct Mode also pulls data wirelessly from the Bluetooth Smart speed, cadence, heart rate or power sensors, even when your phone is not available. Sync to training and social cycling websites post ride via Cateye Cycling App; all data sends quickly while you recover. Enjoy your ride. We got this.

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IVE SPENT the last month or so looking at some very nice shiny new bikes. You probably have too. Not just expensive ones (though Ive seen plenty of those), but plenty priced comfortably below the cycle to work threshold. Ive seen fat bikes, CX bikes, hard tails, single speeds, carbon bikes, steel bikes, folding bikes (actually not

so many of those)well you get the idea with that. Every working day I cycle to my local railway station,

from where I catch the train to BikeBiz Towers (actually not that tower-y) in Hertford. While I lock up my own rusty ride, my gaze inevitably wanders to look at the other bikes locked up by earlier commuters. In truth it looks like they got there much earlier than me. Maybe decades. If ever you are looking for a collection of rust-covered, rickety-looking museum pieces, I suggest you head to your local station. I suspect this is not something unique to Stevenage.

Im no snob (you would be under no illusions if you saw my commuter bike), but I look at these bikes at the station and salute the riders for their bravery and stubbornness. Its a testament to their perseverance that theyve continued to commute on such a ramshackle collection of bicycles. Bravo.

Its not a bad place to do some research about your local bike market, so long as you can avoid suspicious looks for

hanging around the locked up bikes. Which brand of locks dominate? What type of bikes are prevalent? Youd expect commuter-ish bikes, but you might be surprised.

If youve got more time to linger at the train station, there is a gaping wide hole of opportunity here. Where else do you nd legions of cycle commuters each and every day of the week? Its a wonder your local train station hasnt approached you already, frankly, offering you some advertising space near the bike parking spaces where you could inform commuters that they can upgrade and get a nice but not necessarily nick-able bike from you with zero per cent nance, cycle to work, etc.

How about handing out some lea ets at the station at rush hour, informing cycle commuters about that great offer youve got on lights (page 61) as the nights begin to draw in? Or a check to make sure their bike is ready for winter?

While Ive got my thinking cap on, is there not also an opportunity for train stations to make a bit of extra money on bike parking? Maybe offering a premium lock up option that boasts better security, maybe CCTV, and charging a ver a week, targeted at those who want to bring their expensive bike to the station?

All these opportunities going to waste

EDITORIALCould the station be your new BFF?

Jonathon Harker, Editor

Train stations represent a huge opportunity, seeing many commuters who really should upgrade their bike.

You may have spotted that the Grand Depart took place in the UK. We ask the trade how it impacted on sales...

TREK WORLD 43Silverstone hosted trade, media and public bike previews from Trek

I-RIDE & LOOK 11 & 37 Twice we went to the Olympic Velodrome, to see the latest from i-ride and then LOOK

ALLEZ SALES?

FOCUS ON THE SPORTLINE SHOW 27A bumper edition of bike launches this month saw BikeBiz head to Milton Keynes for the latest on Ridgeback, Genesis, Saracen, Ridley...and Rapide

15

NEWS 6-7 Eurobike, Brodco and the Awards, plus our Cycle Shorts round-up of stuff you should have seen on BikeBiz.com

DEALER PROFILE 51BikeBiz heads to the seaside to chat with the brains behind Brightons VeloCafe

GADGETS 65Three sector guides this month (we spoil you), including a look at gadgets for cyclists

NEW PRODUCTS 52A round-up of some of the latest cycle related fare winging its way to the UK bike market

MTB LIGHTS

55 61

COMMUNITY 69Our readers share their thoughts, criticisms and banter and we collate them here

SPONSORED BY

SPOKESMAN 82Carlton Reid aka Archbishop of Canterbury lookalike says cycling is a broad church

OFF TRACK 80 NUMBER CRUNCHING 78

OUTDOOR & FITNESSA look ahead to the Outdoor Trade

Show at Stoneleigh Park 31

E-BIKESHow will futuristic spectacles

Google Glass affect your ride? 47Sponsored by

Issue 103 | August 2014

Prestige brands from i-ride.co.uk

BIKEFIT

Your perfect ride deservesthe nest equipment

by Jonathon Harker

LAST MONTH saw a number of reports backing the view that Brits are turning away from using their car.

Bristol City Councils commuting report 2011 Census Topic Report, Who Cycles to Work? found that driving to work is no longer the norm in the city for the under 40s, with 57 per cent walking, cycling or using public transport. It also found that cycling to work has doubled in a decade. While 74 per cent of Bristol residents cycling to work are men, it found the number of women cycling to work had doubled (2.3 per cent to 4.6 per cent).

In a separate report, the National Travel Survey from the Department for Transport, it was found that the average distance of car driver trips between 1995/97 and 2013 had decreased 12 per cent. Sign cantly, this period extends beyond the latest economic decline, indicating Brits were cutting back on car use before the recession began to bite, or even began.

It wasnt all good news for cycling though, the National Travel Survey found that bicycle trips still only made up between one and two per cent of journeys, indicating that utility cycling is still yet to

take off in the UK, in percentage terms at least as the population grows.

Questions over government spend on roads, typically centred on motorways, were raised as long distance trips make up just ve per cent of the total number of car trips in the UK, according to the DfT.

Sustrans take on the situation was typically robust. Policy director Jason Torrance, said: People are making fewer car trips than ever before but road building is on the increase, proving the governments transport agenda is completely out of touch.

The 24bn allocated to road building and improvements up to 2021 towers over investment to improve walking, cycling and public transport options in local communities, but yet of the lowest income households 48 per cent do not have access to a car.

With the average trip just seven miles the bike provides the perfect alternative to driving, but government must provide dedicated local investment in cycling that transforms our roads and makes it possible for people to choose alternatives to the car.www.sustrans.org.uk

Cycle industrys largest trade show will be a major draw for the worldwide press, including mainstream media, says event organiser

So will government divert funds to cycling?

Car use declines, cycling doubles in a decade

by Mark Sutton

THE ORGANISERS of Eurobike are anticipating 1,800 international and domestic journalists to journey to the exhibition when the show kicks off come August 27th.

With space long sold, a 1,300 strong list of exhibitors will be showing their wares, with a long list of rms also submitting goods for consideration in the Eurobike Awards, the outcome of which is set for deliberation during mid-August by a panel of international experts and editors.

Wolfgang Khle, Eurobikes press spokesperson, told BikeBiz: As well as some 1,800 media from specialist and mainstream publications, our expectation for 2014 sits at roughly 45,000 international trade visitors, (40 per cent domestic and 60 per cent international) as

well as another 20,000 enthusiasts on the nal Saturday.

As far as trends for this years show go, organisers are anticipating the electric, fat bike and cyclocross markets to continue to turn heads, explains Khle.

In general customising and design bikes are proving trendy, while evolution in integrated design and e-bike technology is moving forward too.

The success of e-bikes and pedelecs in the central European market and the prosperous future of this kind of alternative means of transportation leads to the fact that more and more people from automotive industries, to city planners, to research and development institutions are really start to look into this area with interest.www.eurobike-show.com/eb-en/

6 BIKEBIZ AUGUST BIKEBIZ.COM

NEWS

1,800 journalists will arrive at this years Eurobike

Friedrichshafen will be invaded by the bike

industry in August

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Theft-busting bike shed scheme launches

by Jonathon Harker

BRODCO, CREATOR of the rst walk in bike shed to get the seal of approval from the Police, is launching an af liate scheme for cycle retailers.

The Daylight Secure was awarded Secured by Design certi cation by the Association of Chief Police Of cers and is secured just by closing the door. The 6x4 Daylight Secure holds three bikes, while the 6x8 will hold six comfortably.

The sheds are made of TPR which uses 68 per cent waste plastic that can not normally be recycled.

Brodcos Simon Broderick told BikeBiz: When we gained the police approval at

the start of the year we did a press release which was picked up by a few sites.

Were now launching an af liate scheme for cycle retailers. Any retailer that wants to sign up will receive a unique code to identify them, and materials to display in store to hall promote it. Depending on the size of the shed thats ordered, the retailer will receive 60-100 commission, and their customer will receive a special bundle of accessories worth over 80 (1 x Bike Hook, 1 x Bike Tidy & 1 x Hand Tool Rack, all from our TidyUp range).

For more details head contact the rm on 0117 327 0326.brodco.co.uk/bike-shed

With cycle security never straying far from the headlines, Brodco believe they have a consumer solution that can bene t bicycle retailers

NEWS

BIKEBIZ.COM BIKEBIZ AUGUST 7

Brodco made the rst bike shed to get the seal of approval from the Police

IT SEEMS such an obvious idea. Ive been climbing, skiing and snowboarding indoors in Manchester. Ive visited the British Cycling Centre to ride and spectate at the BMX and velodrome tracks, theres indoor karting and you can even go sky-diving indoors! So why dont we have an indoor mountain bike facility?

Dirt Factory will provide perfectly sculpted and permanently covered trails throughout the year. Giving UK riders what we see as an essential facility for winter months when the

days are short, when the trails are saturated through rain, or after work when you dont have much time to travel to a trail centre. The opportunity to ride whenever you feel like it, whether you want to practice some key bike skills, or just have some fun, thats what were about.

The plan we have in place will accommodate all types of mountain bike and BMX, aimed at all abilities. The key is to make it fun but also progressive and non-intimidating. We will have indoor ow trails, jumps, foam pits, a variety of pump tracks and many other features.

Looking across the pond can sometimes give an indication of developments which will spread

to the UK. Look at the success of Rays Indoor Mountain Bike Park, Burlington Bike Park and numerous others. These all offer predominantly wooden trails inside huge warehouses, except Burlington thats dirt.

86,000 square feet is a lot of space (the average football pitch is just 64,000) and with over ten metres of height you wont be worried about bumping your head either.

Innovative use of recycled shipping containers will allow us to build height into the trails,

creating speed and ow for pro cient riders, whilst also giving opportunities for retail and storage units within the containers.

The proposed Dirt Factory experience will be more than just the ride and there are plans for a raised alpine style cafe and bar overlooking the trails. Its more than just having a place to ride indoors. A large number of our visitors will be Dirt Factory spectators. Our facility will be a fantastic place for friends and family to eat, drink, and watch riders on the tracks below.

We also hope these visitors will be encouraged to pick up a bike and access some tuition from the in-house coaches, or even from their friends and family. It doesnt stop there

either, we have plans to run a bike crche for the under 2s, that way parents can ride the dirt whilst their children are getting the hang of the balance bikes.

The Dirt Factory team has already met with industry sponsors and a number of high-pro le potential investors including Bikeparkitect owner Erik Burgon. Erik has pledged his personal support and provided a letter of intent to supply Dirt Factory with a Bikeparkitect Modular pumptrack worth 50k. It looks a lot of fun and easy to put together too.

The Factory wont be as easy to put together as one of Eriks modular tracks though, we need industry support. We would love to hear from people who want to know more about getting involved. Industry sponsors we need you!

This is a huge opportunity for key sponsors and investors. Well be offering the perfect space for brands to demonstrate their products. We envisage stocking hire bikes and demo eets from both regional and international brands. We are also offering prime retail space set among the trails, which could offer everything from custom designed frames and race kit to craft beers and possibly even a haircut.

So there you have it. With the right brands behind the team, we will attract more investors and turn mine and many other riders indoor riding dreams into a reality. Lets just hope its before the clocks go back and winter takes hold! www.dirtfactory.orgwww.facebook.com/Dirtfact @dirt_factory

You may have read about an exciting new project underway in Manchester called The Dirt Factory. Danny Makin, the man behind the idea says, We are not here to replace the outdoors we cant do that. But they may be about to bring the outdoors inside for those rainy days

The Dirt Factory Team


DIRT FACTORY

An early artists impression the Dirt Factory

Whatever the weather

Weve investors already taking a keen interest, including Bikeparkitect owner Erik Burgon who has

pledged 50,000 of pumptrack...Danny Makin, The Dirt Factory

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Stars and StripsI-ride continues to slowly develop its portfolio and with the recent addition of the BikeFit label, now offers dealers an avenue to the complete high-end sales package. Mark Sutton toured the Lee Valley Velodrome trade event to nd out more about the 2015 strategy

I-RIDE 2015 PREVIEW

For your local wholesaler, contact us:

[email protected]

01993 862 300

ORRONever in doubt as a brand that would sell quickly, Orros main talking point wasnt so much the bikes, most of which are pre-sold to the accounts lucky enough to secure them, but the clothing set for launch at the Cycle Show.

Charles Chambers the labels designer told BikeBiz: By September well have a pair of jeans that have done six months worth of wash tests and come out the other side with no trouble. Unlike many other options on the market well be fully bonded so there will be no stitching leaks and theyre quite breathable too thanks to the Shola denim used. All that for 90 and weve used chlorine free dyes.

Back to the bikes and BikeBiz was told of another road build, as well as a singlespeed steel bike aiming at around the 500 mark currently in the pipeline.

BKOOLWith a revamped trainer boasting a stronger skewer and extendable feet for increased stability, BKools new platform is going after the rider who wants to immerse themselves in virtual rides.

Having even taken into account the momentum carried from a downhill into uphill gradient, the trainer is about as realistic as they come, pairing whats on the screen with the resistance, even allowing the user to tweak a rides dif culty in the BKool editing studio.

Theres voice chat and Spotify connection too, allowing the rider to either put on some tunes, or connect with other users from around the globe, even allowing the rider to join a group ride on a circuit many thousands of miles away. With over 500,000 rides already uploaded theres no shortage of routes, all of which can be shown in 2D, as a video or map on screen. The trainers smart electronics will also sense the surface texture and adjust accordingly, making it an ideal realistic training tool for cyclocross riders, among others.

Its quieter than the prior version too, as well as becoming compatible with all Mac, Windows and tablets running iOS or Android.

STRIPNew to the stable, ex-Science in Sport co-founder Tim Lawson has created Strip, a race day and cycle skin care brand.

Lawson explained: If youve come through the club system you probably already know the importance of chamois cream, sun blocks and the like. But for all the beginners currently taking to cycling there needs to be an easy way for them to learn about the perks of using creams in store, well be working hard on developing that.

As a result theres already some tidy point of sale countertop units, as well as a 49.99 race day package designed to open out and present the range of products. Its not just skincare goods within either, Lawson has tucked in some other race day essentials such as a pack of wipes and even a tin of racecard pins.

All the products are alcohol free and ingredients include natural oils from coconut, which are naturally antimicrobial.

3TThe rst thing many would have noted on the 3T booth was a thick legged, full carbon 29er fork with some very tidy and subtle indentation in the carbon allowing for perfect cable routing toward the disc mounts.

On the road front youve new Aero Road bars in three versions, each offering internal routing through the carbon. Look out for the Team (225), Team Stealth (269) and a limited edition high modulus version (300) in the i-ride catalogue.

The talk at the Velodrome centred more on Orro clothing, but further bikes are on the way...

INDUSTRY OPINION


I-RIDE 2015 PREVIEW

ALPINE STARSWith fresh samples having just landed, those who made it along to the multi-stop Velodrome tour would have been among the rst to see the new apparel and protective gear.

For the enduro rider theres fresh shorts and jerseys, including the new Drop line, offering a 45 short sleeve or 59.99 long sleeve garment thats both lightweight and heavily ventilated. Within the jersey youll nd stash pockets that double as goggle wipes and plenty more practical features. The matching Drop shorts will retail at 89.99 and come reinforced in all the key areas.

FULCRUMAesthetically Fulcrums 2015 catalogue is going to turn heads, but as youd expect the real treat is in the detail.

The Racing Zero series has expanded from one wheelset to three, with the Zero, Zero Night and Zero carbon. A big plus for the dealer will be the reduction in price over last years Racing Zero. Each wheelset also runs on ceramic bearings, offering low friction.

Top of the range, the Zero carbon clincher is a totally new wheel, choosing to pair aluminium spokes with a full carbon rim. The result, were told, is a boost to the stiffness of the wheel. A tubular version is also set to go on sale when stock lands in October and November.

On the entry-level front, Fulcrum has also added a new Racing 5 and 7, both with increased rim widths and no increase in weight over the prior wheelsets.

BIKEFITWith so much high-end product on board it was only a matter of time before I-ride began to offer a bike- tting product.

BikeFits methods work from the feet upwards, building the foundations and working up through the knees, pelvis and shoulder positioning. As such youll nd a range of tools to accurately measure the customer when theyre in the saddle, as well as laser guides.

Courses with I-ride also begin in October. Email you representative for more details on how to sign up.

ARGON 18 & DE ROSAWere expecting plenty of disc clad road bikes come Eurobike, thats a given, but Argon 18 surprised us with the addition of a disc version of its popular Krypton, which your customer will soon be able to get hold of for 1,399. The mid-range De Rosa Idol (pictured bottom) also now comes with a disc option.

For those in search of something a bit sleeker, check out the new Argon 18 Nitrogen aero road build, priced from 3,499 (Ultegra) and hitting 4,149 and 4,999 with Di2 and Dura Ace upgrades.

Fresh samples had landed just in time for

the preview two of which you can see here

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The new Nitrogen, starting from 3,499

Pro - 649.99 I Expert - 574.99

The Mattoc is a nod to all the trail builders who make this sport possible, and we set out to design a fork that is as exacting as its namesake. We built it for riders who like to earn the right to use gravity. A fork that provides efficient pedaling and yet can handle any terrain you throw at it, making it an ideal platform for enduro riding.

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MATTOC l PROWeight Lbs / Grams: 4.14/1877 Travel: 140, 150, 160, 170 (26) Spring: DH Air Bottom Out: Adjustable HBO and Rubber Bumper Steerer: 1.5 Tapered Aluminum Compression Damping: MC2 Rebound Damping: Cartridge TPC Adjustments: Externally Adjustable Air, Compression (High and Low Speed), Hydraulic Bottom-Out, Rebound Leg Diameter: 34mm Wheel Size: 26, 27.5 Brake: Post Mount 180mm Axle: QR15 Usage: AM, Enduro

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really driving it. You see the city on the TV and having the tour has been great for tourism. Thats the real bene t.

We nd theres always a Tour effect on business and you would expect it to be bigger this year. We have been busy, but the competition is getting greater there are more people selling bikes.

Clubs are doing great things at the moment and are gearing up to taking on new riders. Weve got some great local triathlon clubs in particular, and the schools are too. Lots of schools have tri clubs and some good coaches.

Ive been working here for 28 years and Ive seen a lot of peaks and troughs over the years, but it seems that its getting harder to plan. Its up and down all over the place and harder to predict. Having the right stock is tough theres either too much or too little.

THE HIRE SHOP PERSPECTIVEAlso located in Cambridge is one S & G Cycles, a workshop specialising in second hand sales, hire bikes and repairs. So had Le Tour generated any sales or hires, up to and including the day it swept through?

There have certainly been more people in who are here for the Tour, especially over the weekend, the staff told BikeBiz.

Repairs are actually down today [on the day of the tour] as many colleges have given staff the day off!

Some people have followed the Tour and have come down from Yorkshire. We were busier over the weekend before the Tour came to Cambridge for that reason.

The Tour de France is obviously really popular, but we nd it is forgotten pretty quickly. It all helps though.

Generally we are busy all year. Weve had no drop off in bikes repairs, though that has made up for lack of hires. Last years summer was great and weather is the thing sunshine brings the customers in.

THE ONLINE PERSPECTIVEWhat about online retail? Like those with bricks and mortar stores, its hard to determine whether sales have derived from the added focus on cycling from the Tour de France, Commonwealth Games and Giro, or in fact just from the good summer weather, but one rm MetaPack has nevertheless recorded signi cant rises in sales in 2014.

While not the most familiar name in the bike trade, MetaPack software is used by some hugely signi cant players including Wiggle, Rutland Cycling, Evans Cycles, Halfords and Sports Direct.

Comparing sales for June 10th to July 13th this year and in 2013, MetaPacks data revealed a national average increase of 28 per cent in volumes of cycling products shipped from online retailers to UK consumers. Speci cally, bicycle helmet sales were up 27 per cent following the Grand Depart.

MetaPack has local data too in the Yorkshire cities and towns, the percentage increases are slightly above average, including in York (50 per cent), Harrogate (33 per cent) and Hudders eld (32 per cent).

Ultimately, quantifying the impact of these sporting events is near impossible, but from the online side particularly there are strong signs that sales got a shot in the arm from the likes of the UK Grand Depart. Either way, well keep on speculating. Share your thoughts at [email protected]

The crowds came out for the Grand Depart,

but was it all quickly forgotten by locals?

S & G Cycles saw tourist numbers up during Le Tours Grand Depart

THE AGE old question of whether sporting success and high pro le sporting events leads to increased participation and sales is perhaps more pertinent than ever in 2014, the year that saw the Giro dItalia in Ireland and Northern Ireland, the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and of course the Tour de France in England for its rst three stages.

British success in Le Tour has been thinner on the ground than had been hoped when plans were rst forged for the Grand Depart in Yorkshire, Cambridge and London, not least due to Bradley Wiggins non-selection, but also with Mark Cavendish and Chris Froome crashing out (at time of press, Geraint Thomas is still in full working order).

Nevertheless, the sense of excitement for anyone visiting the stages was palpable, as BikeBiz can con rm. Reams of media coverage, front pages and the prospect of world famous road riders racing often yards away from bike shops must have translated to increased footfall in shops and online visits, surely?

THE BIKE SHOP PERSPECTIVECambridge packs a lot of cycle heritage into a relatively small city and Ben Hayward Cycles is one of a few bicycle businesses to have been operating there for over a century. Located along the Tour route on Trumpington Street, BikeBiz visited the shop within hours of the peloton riding through.

Bikes as transport has a great history here, but sport cycling doesnt have as much heritage in Cambridge, the shop told BikeBiz. But it is growing and more people are seeing that it is possible to get around by bike as a transport alternative. On the whole, the city has got behind the Grand Depart, with several people

We nd theres always a Tour effect on business.Ben Hayward

Cycles

Did the Grand Depart boost sales? Have the Commonwealth Games galvanised the public to get on their bikes? Jonathon Harker gathers the evidence

Allez sales!


ANALYSIS

many of which were on show at the event. For Spring 2015, however, The Light Blue is adding a new retro style frame and three new contemporary sports frames, all of which are using Reynolds tubing.

The Light Blue St Johns is classed as a retro-modern sports frame. Made with modern Reynolds 720 tubing, it sports mudguard eyelets and rack mounts and the frame lends itself to sportives, commuting and light touring.

Also new is The Light Blue Wolfson, a lightweight tig welded Reynolds 853 frame, geared up for sportive riders, featuring variable size sports geometry, ample clearance for wider tyres, hidden mudguard mounting points and carbon forks.

Meanwhile the Light Blue Robinson is a lightweight tig welded Reynolds 725 tubed sports road bike. The Robinson is disc brake compatible, variable size sports geometry and ample clearance for up to 32C tyres.

Finally, the Light Blue Darwin is being touted as the modern evolution of touring and lifestyle bikes.

Ison Distribution MD Lloyd Townsend said: My great grandfather started making the

Light Blue bikes way back in 1895, and I felt a burning desire to re-invigorate our original brand as it approaches 120 years of age. Having the worlds most revered cycling race starting a stage in Cambridge itself is perhaps a once in a lifetime event. It seemed quite tting to hold a preview of the Light Blue 2015 range to an audience of friends and colleagues that have helped this small Cambridge bicycle business develop.

The Light Blue bicycles are designed in Cambridge with the type of attention to detail that four generations of living and breathing bicycles brings. They are made with proven materials and manufacturing techniques to an ethos that puts customer satisfaction at the top of the page.

The ranges include City bicycles for urban transport, and Sports bicycles for tness and leisure riding.

I am looking forwards to working with a small network of IBDs that want to become stockists of The Light Blue bicycles.

Find out about the expanding range directly from Ison Distribution: 01353 662 662 or at www.thelightblue.co.uk

WHAT BETTER place to preview a Cambridge-designed bike line, than at an event celebrating the start of Stage Three of the Tour de France, right in the heart of a great cycling city like Cambridge?

In case you dont know the story, in 1895 John Albert Townsend started making bicycles in Cambridge for wealthy students and the Light Blue bicycles were born. The name comes from the historic sporting colours used by the world famous Cambridge University. The rivalry between the light blue colours of Cambridge and the dark blue of Oxford are perhaps most famously seen in the annual Thames-set Boat Race. Just dont mention this years race result.

Fast forward 119 years and The Light Blue previewed its 2015 range at St.Catharines College, mere yards away from where the worlds nest rode in Le Tour on a blazing hot Monday afternoon.

With the big 120-year anniversary just around the corner, The Light Blue via distributor Ison will be offering complete bike options, using a semi-custom speci cation and build system. The latest ranges come two years after the launch of The Light Blue Kings line,

I felt a burning desire to

reinvigorate the brand.

Lloyd Townsend, MD, Ison

Cambridge hosting Stage 3 of Le Tour was too big an opportunity to miss for The Light Blue brand and Ison Distribution. Jonathon Harker reports back from a special bike launch

Singing the bike blues


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The returning representatives have now secured the added responsibility of speci c roles, such as chair and treasurer, to drive the group forward.

The twelve volunteers will meet on a quarterly basis with British Cycling. The rst session took place in June at Manchesters National Cycling Centre, where the group set out the aims for the upcoming year.

John Mills, British Cycling director of coaching, education and development, said: We are frequently overwhelmed by the strength of the young volunteers at cycling clubs across the country. It was extremely dif cult to select just twelve young people to represent the National Youth Forum, which is testament to the hard work and dedication of so many volunteers.

Laura Trott, a world champion who rst started cycling at a Go-Ride Club, said: Without support from the volunteers at my Go-Ride Club, its possible I wouldnt be where

I am today. They are all doing a fantastic job and are making a real difference to the sport.

The number of young people taking part in cycling as a sport is soaring, says British Cycling. The Go-Ride programme has provided over 400,000 opportunities for young people to get involved with cycle sport over the past 12 months. Over 60 per cent of riders on the Great Britain Cycling Team started out at Go-Ride Clubs.

Go-Ride has been sponsored by Bike Hub since February this year. Bike Hub was created to safeguard the future of cycling. Contributors voluntarily donate 1 per 1,000 of goods invoiced and this is matched by the manufacturers, distributors and wholesalers thereby creating a total contribution of 2 per 1,000. In this way, Bike Hub has raised over 350,000 per year from the bicycle industry and from independent bike dealers for the last ten years.www.britishcycling.org.uk/go-ride

Go-Ride has been sponsored by Bike Hub

since February this year

TWELVE YOUNG volunteers now sit on British Cyclings National Youth Forum. They will play a key role in shaping the future of cycle sport. Six of the volunteers are returning for a second year on the forum and will work alongside six new volunteers. All twelve will develop opportunities for their peers and provide the chance for others to ride, race and volunteer.

British Cyclings Go-Ride programme is a network of cycling clubs, which provide a fun and safe way to introduce young riders to the world of cycle sport. Go-Ride is supported by the bicycle industrys Bike Hub fund. The aim of the National Youth Forum is to empower young people, who will in uence British Cycling initiatives and the programmes future.

During the rst year, the National Youth Forum representatives focused on developing cycling in schools, providing more opportunities for women to get involved in cycling and widening the scope for riders under 23 to get involved.

With support from Go-Ride, its possible I wouldnt be where I am

today.Laura Trott

The industry-supported Bike Hub levy is helping British Cycling empower young people to have their say on the future of cycling.

Bike Hub supports British Cyclings National Youth Forum


GO-RIDE

manufacturers Shimano, Campagnolo and SRAM will have a considerable presence and new product previews.

This years show is set to have the largest array yet of cycle clothing and accessories, including rst-time exhibitors Vulpine who have been in the news lately with collaborations with Sir Chris Hoy and the House of Fraser.

Some of the latest developments in cycling gadgetry and wearable technology will also be showcased, with the appearance of Madison ensuring that GoPro, Recon and Garmin will be two of the many brands demonstrating their latest game changing features at the NEC.

Continental Europes labels will be well represented too, with the rst appearance in the UK from labels such as Hersh, an Italian bike manufacturer and Sicleri, an Italian

cycle clothing brand. Expect to nd plenty of brands looking to make ground and link with distributors in the UK market.

A number of UK distributors and suppliers will also be exhibiting for the rst time in some years or even debuting in 2014, including Fisher Outdoor Leisure, Extra UK, Paligap, Silver sh UK and Spit re Distribution, wholl join the likes of the returning Chicken Cyclekit, Yellow and ATB Sales.

Once the meetings are done, the same cycle tracks that gave consumers the chance to get to grips with the fresh models will be open to all who like to let the product do the talking.

If youre planning on being amongst the rst to see the product on the trade day on Thursday September 25th (and why wouldnt you?) get yourself registered at over at the of cial site: www.cycleshow.co.uk/trade

THE CYCLE Show returns shortly and this years edition is, as you may have guessed, bigger than ever before, with oor space having once again sold in record time.

Held from the 26th to 28th of September at the NEC in Birmingham, the show welcomes back a number of big name brands in the world of cycling, as well as celebrating some of the latest and most innovative new brands in the industry. The trade, as usual, are invited exclusively on the opening Thursday to meet with brand managers minus the distraction of consumer crowds.

Dassi and Beacon will join Boardman as the three bike brands set to make their Cycle Show debuts this year, while big guns including Pinarello, Colnago, Trek, Cube, Bianchi, Raleigh and Condor will be all be returning. Whats more, all three of the leading component

Beacon, Boardman,

Trek, Colnago, Raleigh,

Shimano... the list goes on

Its all about the returning acts at this years Cycle Show, which once again has sold oor space in record time. Mark Sutton speaks to the organisers about which labels the trade should visit this year

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LOBBYING FOR the BikeBiz Awards 2014 is over. Finito. It is no more. All further lobbying emails will be politely turned away from the door.

So what happens next? Well be announcing the nalists very soon and this is where we turn again to you, reader.

Since its inception, the BikeBiz Awards have been judged by a wide variety of people from the bike trade. The more the merrier, in fact, and this year will be no different.

Judging couldnt be simpler and involves no time out of the of ce/shop/wherever it is you work. Well email you with a list of the nalists, plus a PDF with some info on each of them, then you pick those you believe are most deserving. No, people cannot vote for themselves or the company they work in for this judging period, as that would be silly.

Just drop us a line at [email protected] saying you want to be a judge and well send you that list of nalists. Just dont say you werent asked.

JUDGEMENT

DAYAs the countdown to the 2014 BikeBiz Awards continues and more sponsors come on board, were on the look out

for judges. How about it?

BIKEBIZ AWARDS


ITV grabbed a cycle coverage prize in 2013

Will Mojo Suspension be back on the stage this year? Its up to you...

road.cc were happy about their win

The British Cycling team gather at the Awards

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INDUSTRY OPINION

CYCLEPLAN GOES PLATINUM Cycleplan has signed up as Platinum Sponsor for the BikeBiz Awards 2014.

Cycleplan are insurance specialists, offering cover for all types of cyclists and all types of bikes. They recognise the needs of your customers and can tailor policies to suit their individual requirements. This includes insuring multiple bikes on one policy; no postcode premium for city-based cyclists; worldwide cover for cycling abroad and insurance for all those extra accessories.

Cycleplan is designed speci cally around the needs of todays vast array of different cyclists. From commuters and recreational cyclists to road racers and triathletes, we can give them peace of mind, said John Woosey, Cycleplan managing director.

Since we launched at the end of 2013 weve been blown away by what is happening in terms of innovation and commitment to raising the bar right across the cycling trade at a time when the industry as a whole is booming. Were pleased to sponsor the BikeBiz Awards and their recognition of the best in the business.www.cycleplan.co.uk

NUUN JOINS THE AWARDSMeanwhile nuun has signed up as category sponsor for the awards.

The active hydration specialist has been at the forefront of the sector for over a decade and the brand was the creator of the original hydration tablet. Established by competitive cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts, nuun produces hydration tabs that are highly portable, with no sugar, light avoured and providing essential electrolytes for active folk.

With the rst three stages of the Tour de France just having freshly ripped their way through our green and pleasant lands, British cycling couldnt be in a more exciting and buoyant position, said nuuns Lizzie Baillie.

nuun active hydration is thrilled to be as much a part of this industry today as it was 10 years ago (nuun was indeed invented by a cyclist out on a ride one day in the rolling hills of Vermont) and is very excited to be supporting the 2014 Bike Biz Awards. www.nuun.co.uk

CYCLE-SOS COMES TO THE TRADES AIDAnd thats not all, long-term supporter of the Awards Cycle-S.O.S has again got behind the cycle industry prizes this year.

This year, Cycle-S.O.S is Event Partner for the BikeBiz Awards.

For those not already in the know, Cycle-S.O.S is a national helpline for cyclists, staffed with specialists providing help and advice to those that have suffered an accident. The team of cycling lawyers have over 20 years experience in helping victims of bicycle accidents make a bike accident claim and have won millions of pounds for thousands of cyclists over the past two decades. www.cycle-sos.co.uk

The BikeBiz Awards 2014 take place on Wednesday September 24th at the Crowne Plaza Birmingham NEC, just a stones throw from the NEC exhibition hall setting of Cycle Show.


BIKEBIZ AWARDS

BIKEBIZ AWARDS 2014 CATEGORIES Bike Distributor of the Year P&A Distributor of the Year Specialist Distributor Independent Bike Dealer Star Store Specialist Retailer Mainstream Retailer Workshop Services Best Retail Event In-Store Experience Online Store Bike Brand of the Year P&A Brand of the Year Sales Team Marketing Team Retailer Services Training Cycling Advocacy Achievement

NEED TO KNOWWhat? The BikeBiz AwardsWhy? To celebrate the cycle industry, from retail and distribution, to brands, advocates and moreWhen? Wednesday September 24th, the evening before Cycle Shows trade dayWhere? Crowne Plaza Birmingham NEC

TOP 5: TIPS FOR THE BIKEBIZ AWARDS1 Get your speech ready2 Dont worry about a tuxedo or formal dressunless you work for havebike (its tradition)3 Dont eat before you come as theres a tasty hot food selection on the night. 4 Practice your Im not disappointed at all that I didnt win face in the mirror before leaving5 Most of all, before the night, remember to vote. Email us at [email protected] and well get you on the list of judges.

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Will Cyclescheme win this year too? You decide, if you vote

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RapidechangesBike retailers and media got to see the latest from Genesis, Ridgeback, Ridley and Saracen as well as an entirely new brand at Sportlines summer bike launch. Jonathon Harker reports back from Milton Keynes


SPORTLINE SHOW REPORT

RapideYou may have spied a few samples at The Sportline Show earlier this year, but Sportlines summer bike launch saw Rapide unveiled in full for the rst time. Coming from the designers behind Ridgeback (and using a former Ridgeback brand name), the line-up has been two years in development and initially features nine bikes; two for juniors (both at 400), with seven road bikes lling out the remainder of the line-up.

So why the creation of a new brand? The bikes werent felt to t into the Ridgeback family, the brand told BikeBiz.

The adult bikes are split into the RL and RC series. Three bikes make up the RL line, with a frame using in-house geometry and coming in with six sizes, focused on a endurance/all-day riding style.

As with Ridgeback, Shimano features on the bikes, which range from 649 to 899 in the RL series. That RL line-up led to the creation of the

carbon bikes in the range (RC series). The RC1 hits the 1,200 price point, is Di2 ready (as with the whole range), while the RC3 is the agship of the line-up and will feature on the primary marketing for Rapide. At the top end, the RC4 has a full Di2 set up and hits 2,999.99. Like Ridgeback, theres a lifetime warranty on all the frames and a focus on affordability.

Naturally the range will extend beyond the nine bikes over time and there will be rst samples of a broader line-up at the next Sportline Show. Dealers have reportedly reacted well to rst sight of the range, with the junior bikes apparently causing the biggest stir thus far.

RidgebackYoud think that after launching Rapide, the Ridgeback design team would be putting its feet up, but theres been no such luck for them as the Ridgeback line-up has undergone some signi cant changes this year, not least with Tradition a range of Dutch-style step through bikes. A long-held ambition for Ridgeback, the colour coded range features Schwalbe tyres, a custom fork and an eye-catching price tag 349 putting it in direct competition with a number of brands including Bobbin. Set to be available at the end of September, the range comes in three colours and will be tweaked again before production.

Advance has seen one of the biggest changes in the Ridgeback range, not least in look, with both new graphics and colours. The freshened up range now sports CX tyres and lengthened head tubes. The Flight line-up has been tightened to three models ( ve last year), with some price savings made in the range and a move away

from the black, silver and grey of last year (though there are still muted colours for security conscious London customers). The brighter range has garned good feedback, BikeBiz was told.

Last year the boys Dimension bikes sold out. Keen to follow up on that, Ridgeback has developed the junior range with a complete redesign, focusing on keeping weight low and on everyday use.

Elsewhere, Ridgeback has re ned some of its lines. Naturally the Rapide is no more (it has now incorporated into the Metro range). Avenida now includes the World Panoramic Deluxe, which has gone down well with UK and French dealers in particular, we hear.

Onto Scoot, which has been a Ridgeback stalwart since 2007. The popular learner bike range is huge in North America in particular and this year sees the range available in nine eye-catching colours.

Sticking with juniors, further re nements see the Dual Track and Track merged, so now only the Dual Track name is being used.

INDUSTRY OPINION


SPORTLINE SHOW REPORT

Genesis Genesis fat bike, the Caribou, has lost weightfrom its price tag. The 2015 version of the proper fat bike is 300 cheaper, down to 1,199. Theres also an eye catching junior version this year (pictured right).

The Longitude is a new addition for Genesis. This fully rigid 29 compatible bike is based around the same idea as the Adventure line, pitched at the touring/expedition market. This ready for anything bike is 999.99.

Croix De Fer has been expanded, now with a complete range with an easy to understand line-up that starts from 849. The black and white paint job has returned (on the 20) due to popular demand, while a limited orange and grey paint job is also in the range mix.

Equilibrium was Genesis foray into a road disc bike last year and having easily sold out the team has launched a dedicated range around the genre, topping out at 2,999 for the Equilibrium Ti (disc titanium). Mudguard compatible, 1,099 is now the entry level for the range, putting disc brakes into the price range of more consumers. Away from discs, Equilibrium now features

Campagnolo for the rst time (in the 30 and 20 models though Shimano options are available).

Popping up in the Genesis line-up this year are some new materials, probably most notably KVA MS3 a more affordable alternative to Reynolds 931, cheaper because it is produced in larger quantities and used in other industries.

Also new this year is CDA. This drop bar alloy range has the same look as the Croix De Fer and boasts bigger and bolder tyre specs, with a simple and clean, practical look.

What else? The Volant has similar colour trends to last year, with prices aimed at those who have been inspired by the likes of Froome and Wiggins but dont necessarily have the knowledge of bikes to go with that enthusiasm. RRPs start from 599 (Volant 10) and rise to 799.99 (Volant 30). All feature carbon forks and have tments for mudguards and racks.

Not content with all that, Genesis has also launched the Bridge sub-brand, an urban and accessible line pitched at those new or newish to cycling. Then theres Volare, which was new last year, and this time round the range sports wider rims to accommodate the trend for a wider tyre. And all thats just for starters.

Saracen Onto Saracen, which has now been with Madison, or rather Sportline, since 2009, with re-establishing the brand with the IBD remaining the priority.

The successful Saracen team riders are big testers for the brand, not least the junior grass roots riders. Those looking to emulate the team have the Myst Pro, which is what the team uses, give or take the back end has been modi ed for more mud clearance and theres a new seat tube in one piece (2,999). Then theres the Myst Team a full factory top ight race bike, in a paint nish similar to the teams (4,899).

The Mantra Trail Carbon (1,499) is brand new to the Saracen line-up. Featuring the same highly rated gear and set up, it sports 120mm travel, internally routed cables, an internal dropper post and the focus remains on the fun of the ride. The Elite Carbon features a colour and nish inspired by the F1 McLaren team.

According to Saracen, it was the rst UK rm to produce a 650B bike (at a time when only Norco was offering one worldwide). It wasnt easy getting hold of tyres, rims, etc to t the bike but now its in its third season the Kili Flyer.

Its mostly just cosmetic changes this year, with a more raw nish, and is pitched as the ultimate

trail bike for UK customers. Its pricy, but its also future proof, the rm says.

Hack is in its second season, its name coined by the sales team who simply described it as a bike for hacking around town which then stuck. The frame is lighter now were in year two, while prices are down the Hack 1 is the opening price point bike at 749.

Another bike introduced last year was the Tenet. Sporting decent mudguard clearance, forks have been upgraded to carbon tapered, offering more value for the rider. The Tenet 3 comes with discs.

Sticking with the road, the Avro is an interesting development. Named after the manufacturer behind the Vulcan Bomber, the Avro is how Saracen sees the road bike, taking on MTB learnings. Using specially machined hubs, a paired down and lighter version than those used in the MTB ranges, the bike is Di2 and hydro ready and features wider rims (1,799).

The popular and functional Urban Cross has seen some subtle frame improvements and now looks more aggressive. Elsewhere the kids range sports lighter tyres.

To nd out more about those or all the many other bikes we didnt have space to feature here, head on over to www.sportlineb2b.co.uk for all the details.

Ridley With Eurobike only a few weeks away, Ridley was wisely waiting for the uber bike show to reveal most of its new launches to the cycle world. The brand did, however, choose to show off its not inconsiderable 13-bike strong CX range at the Sportline Show. For 2015, disc brakes feature strongly, including for its do all bike, the X-Bow AllRoad 20 Disc. Pitched as a chic commuter with colour matched mudguards and brown faux-leather bar tape and saddle, this bike nips under the all-important 1,000 cycle to work watershed.

Wednesday 24th September 2014 t Crowne Plaza, NEC

For more information on trade tickets and sponsorship opportunities,please email [email protected] or call 01992 535647

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THE OUTDOOR Trade Show (OTS) is back this September, running from Tuesday 9th to Thursday 11th at long-term home of Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire.

The signs are good for this years edition, with the 100 exhibitor milestone broken back in May (ahead of last year), with signi cant new exhibitors like Regatta Outdoors, as well as the UK show debuts from FixnZip from the US and Unikia from Norway, plus a brand new UK company Smashii.

The organisers tells BikeBiz that new products appearing for the rst time include rucksacks from Bagman, sun protection products from Sunproof, climbing gear from Out There Gear, marine products from Meridian Zero, outdoor accessories from Eskimo Agency, survival innovations from Blizzard and camping products from Gateway Leisure, among others.

CALLING CYCLE RETAILERSThe Outdoor Trade Show is reaching out to cycle trade as well as pure outdoor sector vendors. The bike industry is represented by exhibitors like 2pure (Ninepointnine), Buffera, F-lite, Silva, and X-Socks (Ardblair Sports), while theres also over 115 companies offering outdoor product for those considering dabbling in the wider market.

That cycle crossover means OTS is an increasingly signi cant destination for the trade, says organiser Marta Williams: We are

delighted to have taken so many bookings at this stage from such a fantastic mix of brands. The show has become very relevant for cycling brands that want to present their range to a new customer base, and is a must attend for all cycling retailers looking for crossover products.

Registration is now open for the trade. Filling out an online form at www.outdoortradeshow.com provides free access to the event.

BASE BOOSTERF-Lites new Merino TEC 240 base layer collection will launch at the Stoneleigh Show, combining the advantages of the natural functions of merino wool with the performance properties of super ne polyproylene yarn.

The lightweight range offers body mapping for wicking properties and performance and includes mens and womens long sleeve tops (RRP 79.99) and long tights (RRP 59.99). Youll nd those at the SMG Outdoor stand (337 indoors and Grass Block 53-3 outdoors.

Snugpak will launch a new range of products for the outdoor and bushcrafts markets at this years OTS, including the Stasha (RRP 39.95) a lightweight shelter that packs away to a small size so it can easily be stashed away in a pocket. Featuring looped webbing and grommets in each corner so it can be staked out or attached with four

guy ropes, it can be con gured in a different number of ways, including an improvised bivvi, thanks to the two plastic snaps which allow it to be folded. Snugpak will also launch a new Quart System (all weather sleep system) and adds the new Cave tent to its collection. Youll nd Snugpak at stand 41 (indoors) and 53-6 (outdoors)

Over on stand 15, Superfeet will be showing the newest member of its insole selection Carbon, with a full range of samples at the show.

Superfeets lightest performance insole, Carbon provides a low volume performance insole with stability. It is touted as Superfeets strongest and thinnest insole which is designed to work in low volume shoes where performance is key, even in the tightest of performance footwear. Superfeet will be exclusively giving all retailers who visit the stand a free test pair of Superfeet insoles.

Beyond product there will be stands from the likes of ActSmart and the Outdoor Industries Association. The latter will be found in the new Networking Hub area. Chief exec Andrew Denton and the team will be on hand to answer queries from existing members and speak to those interested in joining the association and supporting the Britain on Foot initiative.

Find out more via organiser MCS on 0161 437 4634 or via the site: www.outdoortradeshow.com

This years Outdoor Trade Show promises product debuts, UK show debuts and plenty for the cycle trade to get their teeth into. Jonathon Harker reveals all

The lure of Outdoor


SHOW PREVIEW

The F-Lite Merino range debuts

Superfeets Carbon insole

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Super B may not be the best-known tool brand in the business, but Moore Large has plans in place to change all that. Product manager Steve Palmer tells Jonathon Harker the story behind Super B

What is Super Bs background? Super B has been producing hand tools for 20 years and focusing on the pro bike tool eld for over ten. The thought that goes into each tools design is phenomenal and their unique innovation and technology makes them a world-leading bike tool manufacturer.

They focus on R&D and quality-control in production. With the latest equipment and fully quali ed team, they closely monitor every step from manufacturing, production, nished products to packing until the products are sent to us. Between 20 and 30 new products are launched yearly. Super Bs mission is to constantly upgrade the appearance, function, quality and ef ciency of bike tools, whilst expanding the service network.

The brand isnt new to the UK, they just dipped under the radar due to limited distribution and weak marketing. We researched before taking on exclusive distribution and the brand was recognised by mechanics working in the trade and the products regarded as excellent due to their quality and thoughtful design but the brand was not so well known by the rest of the industry!

The range is split into the Classic and Premium ranges. What are the differences? Both Classic and Premium have limited lifetime warranties, demonstrating the brands commitment to quality. The Premium range includes more specialist workshop tools for technical repairs like frame alignment, cutting and facing tools, but also enhanced durability and increased comfort for more frequent users.

How wide are the ranges? The scope is vast: Need a tool to take the top

off a bottle? We got it all the way through to an electric bike workstand lift (due 2015). The experienced mechanic is catered for with frame, cutting and measuring tools. Wheel builders are covered with a wide choice of different spoke nipple wrenches, a spoke tension master and precision wheel truing jigs. The home mechanic can turn pro with folding stands, that are durable for the workshop, but if you want extra sturdy there is the comprehensive workshop range too. Basically, the range covers everything from workstations to storage, remover tools to setting tools and everything in between. If your bike needs xing Super B will have the tool to do it.

Are there any particular top sellers?De nitely, theres clearly a need for the dependable products the kind of thing that when you need them, you need them. Chain rivet extractors, crank extractors, cable cutters and the Hex Key Sets, which are so shiny you almost want to display them rather than use them! The spoke keys are a loved product for wheel builders and the freewheel and cassette removers seem to be a rm favourite.

Are there any incentives for bike shops to stock Super B for their own workshops? The depth and usability of the range will make mechanics lives easier. The quality and lifetime warranty is also a major incentive. Tools will last longer, reducing overheads over time. We also have some great stock-in deals for dealers. We have three packages available offering combinations of increased off-line discount, vouchers for Super B Premium, half price or FOC boxes of tyre levers and free workshop aprons, shirts and banners.

Are there any POS options for dealers?We have a great free standing and rotating Super B display tower which doesnt take up much oor space. We have slat wall headers, shirts and aprons for the workshop...all of which are offered as part of a stocking-in package.

Eurobike is just around the corner can you give us any hints about launches there?Weve seen a few exciting things proposed, but our lips are sealed. In the short space of time weve been their distributor weve already had input and given feedback on a number of exciting new products. At Moore Large we have some very experienced mechanics in our technical centre that are a great source on what works and whats needed. They are living and breathing bicycle tools.

What kind of marketing support is in place? Moore Large has invested in a consumer marketing campaign to raise awareness and to make sure products sell through. This year saw our rst Super B race servicing for consumers, which we intend to roll out across more events next year. Moore Large and Super B xed 70 bikes at the 16th Mountain Mayhem. Labour was provided free of charge by the skilled Super B mechanics and there was a nominal charge for parts, (if needed) from Todays Cyclist.

At our tech centre we host accredited cycle mechanic training, American Classic wheelbuild and service training, corporate introduction to cycle mechanics and SR Suntour service training which gives mechanics the opportunity to see the tools in action.Interested dealers should contact their area manager or the sales team on 01332 274252 or [email protected]

We researched before taking

on distribution and found

mechanics who regarded

Super B as excellent. But the brand was

not so well known by the

rest of the industry!

Steve Palmer, Moore Large

SuperB tooling

SUPER B

Above:Super Bs vast array of tools are split into the Classic and Premium ranges


With development having taken place alongside retailers, its hardly surprising Alturas new luggage has been so well received. Mark Sutton talks to David Wallace, Altura Luggage Designer and Brand Manager about the ranges qualities

What was your inspiration for the designs?The number one criteria for these bags was always ease of use. We wanted our bags to convert to panniers quicker and easier than our competitors. We also needed our range to be affordable its quite easy to get carried away when designing and end up with an overly complicated design. To keep it commercial you need to balance features with costs.

Whats special about the materials used? We chose tarpaulin material as its very tough, abrasion resistant and easy to clean. I consulted a number of local bike shops to get their opinions on some of the early prototypes and the tarpaulin was really well received which meant we felt con dent using it.

How has the press received the product?The feedback from the press both at Cycle Vision and the time since this has been very positive. The most satisfying feedback we have had has been from the public and customers who have commented on social media and product reviews. Our research suggested that there was a market need for bags that worked on and off the bike, and we were con dent we had some pretty special and unique products.

What price range does the luggage span? The Versa products are 69.99 for the Meta Messenger style bag and 74.99 for the Morph Backpack, both are currently in stock. The full Altura luggage range goes from 12.99 (our

classic small Speed Seatpack) up to 124.99 (our hardwearing Orkney 56 Pannier pair).

Youve built in a few innovative features? When tted on the bike it is vital that the straps dont interfere with the wheels, so a lot of time was spent designing solutions that allowed the safe storage of straps while still being as easy to use as possible. The straps on the Morph are stored behind a movable panel that cradles the webbing straps and holds everything neatly against the outside of the bag, while the Meta features a shoulder strap that buckles into place inside the bag so theres no need to disconnect the straps. Both are packed with features for organising kit: padded laptop and tablet compartments, eece lined pockets for phones/sunglasses, pockets for bike tools, key hooks and more. The Meta also has a sleeve pocket for a U-lock.

There are also high visibility rain covers with both bags which also improve visibility to other road users. The covers also feature rear facing LED attachment loops for improved safety. We actually included two LED loops on each rain cover because we gured that even if the rain cover is tted the wrong way round, youll still have an LED loop in the right place.

Its not just larger volume units theres saddlebags too, is that right?For 2014 we have updated the Speed Seatpacks. These easy to t packs are available in small, medium and large (12.99, 14.99 and

16.99) and feature a full opening zip for easy access with a convenient internal mesh storage pocket, ideal for tyre levers. We have increased the amount of re ectivity on the packs with piping and side and rear graphics.

We have also introduced a new model called the Explore; built around an innovative Rixen Kaul mounting system that allows the pack to quickly attach directly to the seatpost on the bicycle. To remove the pack from the bike you simply press the quick release buttons on the side. The bag features the same easy to use zip opening as the Speed seatpacks but also has an expanding section that increases the capacity by around 40 per cent, so theyre ideal for touring and leisure use.

Why choose Altura Versa bags? Most other convertible pannier bags tend to be compromised products that arent very comfortable off the bike, or ideal panniers on the bike because the bags need to perform two very different functions. Our approach was to rede ne this category and set a new benchmark with easy to use, practical solutions.

How do they compare weight wise?Not all of our competitors state their product weights, but considering the capacity of our bags I would say ours are competitive with the market. One of the bene ts of our Versa range is that the customer doesnt need to buy heavy (and pricy) brackets or special mounts to t them to their bikes. www.zyro.co.uk/altura

Number one criteria for these bags was always

ease of use.David Wallace,

Altura

Its in the bag

PROFILE


Tough tarpaulin material has been used in the luggage range

WE ARE BIKE MAINTENANCE

MADE IN THE UNITED KINGDOM BY


shop tter, the second generation e-Post will also make life easier, with just a single 90 degree turn of an allen key required to completely loosen the post to make a quick height adjust.

The strength of LOOKs carbon engineering credentials is further boosted with the Continuous Fibre Design that sees the fork made from a single piece, as opposed to the traditional method of piecing the steerer and two legs together. Youll nd CFD on all models from the 675 upwards, as well as microsites for this and the 795 to enable dealers to virtually show off the bikes many technological advantages. Registered dealers are listed here too.

On to the bikes and the key launches start with the 566, pitched as Looks luxury sportive bike and available built with 105 or Ultegra. Built using a new larger cross section top tube, the manufacturer claims to have added lateral stiffness to the tune

of ten per cent. Pair that with an increased head tube stiffness (by some 25 per cent over the prior model), as well as tidied aesthetics with better cable integration and the 566 already looks stronger year-on-year. Theres a reduced RRP to take into account too.

Next up, the 675 and 675 Light at 2,999 and 3,499, respectively, offer dealers another sportive option and a more race bred build in the Light. The standard model uses a 3K carbon weave, with the frame tipping the scales at 1,150 grams. If your customer forks out the extra, theyll take home a frame with full carbon dropouts, resulting in a weight of just 900 grams. Again the Lights price has shaved 300 off last years retail price. A full 695 Ultegra di2 11-speed build, including the ZED crank and Aero stem, can be bought for 4,999, or as a frame only option for 2,799.

Top of the pile retailers have both the 795 (standard brake con guration) and 795 Aero. With aero sections carved into the frame, this ones spent some serious time in the wind tunnel, with all component additions carefully considered. One of the rst things youll notice on the 795 Light is the brakes embedded within the fork legs, another of Looks new design patents. Theres also a top tube stash point for your customers di2 battery.

The e-Post 2 is an important part of the build, weighing in at 139 grams and coming compatible with monolink or railed saddles and offering vibration dampening via an elastomer. www.lookcycle.com

The 675 light frame comes in at sub 900 grams

The integrated Shimano di2 junction

LOOK is an understandably proud label, with the heritage and success stories to back the bikes. But as 2015s catalogue re-emphasised the manufacturer isnt letting past success in uence future sales forecasts too heavily, relying instead on putting its two Tunisian factories to work on new innovations to take the bikes forwards.

Trickled down technology is heavily evident in the mid-range this year, adding an extra element of value and performance.

The retailer is set to bene t too, with Fisher Outdoor having collaborated with LOOK to introduce new point of sale material.

LOOK brand manager, Tim Bayley explained to the gathered crowd: The independent dealer is central to Fisher Outdoors strategy for LOOK. Getting face-to-face with the customer is essential and the 2015 line bears new patents and innovations that need to be understood and delivered to the consumer by a specialist.

Among the new patents are subtle ways of disguising the ugly bits of Di2 kit and a more ef cient way of handling internal cable routing through component parts. Theres also a new registered method of manufacture on its carbon frames whereby on the top end models the carbon will be as smooth on the inside as youd nd on the visible side, ultimately meaning less defects or chances of something upsetting the weave.

Innovations like the ZED Crank will also be pleasing to those bike tting, with adjustable length built in, meaning less SKUs to carry. If youre the

The independent

retailer is central to

Fishers strategy for

LOOKTim Bayley, LOOK

One of many brands this year to forgo the usual Eurobike launch procedure, LOOK gave dealers the chance to see 2015s builds ahead of schedule. Mark Sutton reports on the Lee Valley Velopark event

Is it me youre LOOKing for?


LOOK 2015 LAUNCH

use machine tools so everything is taught using hand tools as this provides the very best foundation for frame builder and ensures that our students are able to go on and build again without needing to spend a fortune on unnecessary tools. Along with a fork build, our advanced course includes three days of one to one tuition, which gives students an even greater depth of experience and understanding.

Have any famous names in frame building come out of the Academy? Yeah, weve taught a number of builders at the start of their framebuilding career such as T&B workshop, Toad Cycles, Grim Cycles and Sven Cycles, which is great. Also, were proud to be selected by professional builders who want to further improve their skills, such as Donhou Bicycles, Paulus Quiros, 18 Bikes, Johnson Frameworks (Norway), Ellipsis Workshop (Russia) and Mars Cycles (USA).

How has business been so far this year? Its great over the past year our reputation has spread thanks to wonderful reviews from our students, and their work being praised by renowned builders. In the past few weeks alone weve taught people from Peru, Japan, Norway, USA, Hungary and Italy, along with many from across the UK. Our teaching methods really set us apart as our students leave with the understanding and skills to make great frames on their own, and we dont restrict them to particular joining methods or frame designs.

You mentioned that some frames from the academy go to charity tell us about this:Once completed the frames will be distributed to NGOs who work with remote communities

to provide transport in various African countries. Our Africa Bike programme has been running since we started, so weve amassed around 200 frames, meaning that the next phase of the project ( nishing, painting and shipping) is just about to start, something that were all very excited about. The principle of the course is that some people want to learn how to build bicycles before making their rst, so by offering a course where they can learn the skills whilst making a bike for someone else they can concentrate on learning, rather than being anxious about the bike they are building being their perfect bike. Although perhaps counter intuitive, the format works incredibly well and has been very popular.

How can a student sign up for a course?To book a course just email Abbie [email protected], or give her a call on 01373 473767. We typically have around 60 people booked on consecutive courses, which equates to around four months before the earliest date we can offer, but we do get the odd space, so its always worth asking. We take a small deposit at the time of booking and students can spread the payments after that.

And what about Academy Tools?Over the past few months weve been working to develop our own range of frame building tools, all designed here at The Bicycle Academy. We unveiled some of the prototype products at Bespoked, to a great reception, and are close to launching later this summer. The rst products include a modular frame building jig, workshop aprons and oak tube blocks that we made in collaboration with Brooks England.www.thebicycleacademy.org

The Academy has taught over 300 people since its

2012 launch

Tell us a bit about the Academy, who founded it and where the idea started:I came up with the idea for a new kind of bicycle frame building school in November 2010, where teaching was the focal point. Rather than the typical build your own frame experiences offered elsewhere I wanted to focus on equipping students with a deeper understanding and the skills needed to build high quality bikes on their own. After a lot of hard work, plenty of help and a successful crowdfunding campaign I opened the doors to The Bicycle Academy in July 2012 and weve taught over 300 people, from all over the world.

What courses are currently on offer?We teach a seven day standard frame building course and ten day advanced frame (and fork) building courses where students come away with a beautiful bespoke bicycle, a wealth of knowledge and genuine pro ciency at each skill. We also teach a ve-day classic frame building course where students learn the core skills of frame building by building a standardised bicycle frame which we donate to charity.

Our one day one-to-one masterclasses are also very popular with people looking to focus on a particular skill; we teach TIG welding, llet brazing, lug brazing, tting and design and bench tting and get great results in each case.

What skills can you teach as part of a standard and advanced course?We teach a wide range of skills on both courses including frame design and tting, bench tting (measuring, marking, cutting and shaping), llet and lug brazing, along with all the other speci cs of fabricating a bicycle frame such as xtures, alignment and nishing. We dont

Were proud to be selected

by professional builders who

want to further their skills.

Andrew Denham, The Bicycle

The art of building a bike is one that shops perhaps used to embrace more. But could there be a resurgence in those hand making? Mark Sutton asks the Bicycle Academys Andrew Denham

Measure twice, cut once


INTERVIEW

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LUPINE DEALERS WANTED

LEVERETPRODUCTIONS.COM

Bike hire sounds a simple concept on the surface, but under the surface it is a logistical challenge that tests even the most organised. Doug Stoddart shares his rst-hand knowledge of the bike rental market, and his Bike Rental Manager creation, with Jonathon Harker

RENTAL FORMS a backbone for many bike businesses, but handling bookings, co-ordinating maintenance and making sure bikes are in the right place at the right time is no mean feat. One hire business Village Velo decided to take matters into its own hands and create bespoke software to help run rental bike hire. The brains behind that software named Bike Rental Manager is one Doug Stoddart. BikeBiz caught up with the man during the busy rental season

How did you end up running a rental shop? Pre-bike shop it was all suit and tie jobs for me. I started with Accenture (Andersen Consulting back then) a big American computer consulting rm who taught me all about how to build large robust computer systems. Then I moved to an investment bank, a much more serious environment, where I was building some of the rst online trading systems. Overall I did ten years of corporate IT life in London, but I had always wanted an active, outdoor life. In 03 I quit the rat race and bought a run down villa in South France to renovate and run cycling holidays from.

Did you start work on BRM as soon as you got into the bike business? Our bike rental business, Village Velo, started

with just four bikes, mainly supplying clients on our cycling holidays. We grew the eet yearly and now have around 55. Initially, like most people I talk to in the business, we had a spreadsheetor, rather, several spreadsheets. I was even quite proud of them! But as the business grew I was spending more time xing the spreadsheet and not actually doing real work. After an fruitless search for suitable software I started to program BRM version 1.0 from the back of the shop. I knew there had to be a better way so I started from the ground up, building exactly what I needed. I knew I wanted to eventually sell the software so I started talking to a few bike rental shops. I had my rst client within four months of writing the rst line of code. Since that day my clients have helped shaped the software. There was clearly enormous demand for this thing.

Have you seen bike rentals grow? Yes, I think bike rental has grown and there are a few drivers for that. Firstly there are more cyclists now than eight years ago. Secondly its getting more expensive to travel with bikes, especially trans-atlantically. Finally people are realising that renting bikes is so much more convenient than travelling with their own, and they get to try out a different kind of bike. I think city bike schemes like Boris bikes

have in general been good for the bike rental industry. It just gets more people used to bikes, and yet still remains a means of transport, compared to a recreational bike that you might rent from a shop.

What about the bene ts of the software? It takes the hassle and stress out of rentals. On the face of it, its really simple: You just rent people bikes, right? But in reality making sure the right person gets the right bike on the right day is much more challenging. If the phone rings and someone says, have you got ve mountain bikes for next Thursday you need to be able to say yes or no very quickly otherwise you waste your time and your potential customers. Even better the customer is checking your availability and booking online while you sleep. Thats a lot easier said than done. Fundamentally BRM manages your reservations, eet, customers, transactions, invoices, and maintenance, all online, accessible anywhere.

Is being able to make bookings online really a big deal for consumers? Yes, and I would say demand is increasing steadily; ignoring that is to risk getting left behind. BRM Clients that are using online booking are seeing a steady ow of reservations and it is just one line of HTML to put it on their website! You just have to take a look at any ecommerce statistics to see where the trend is going. People are increasingly making decisions and purchases online, and more and more from mobile devices. But this is a good thing for the supplier as its a lot easier to let software handle all those repetitive conversations and let your staff concentrate on excellent customer service. However I always say online booking really just represents the tip of the iceberg. The majority of my clients buy BRM because of the bene t it brings to the back of ce ie simply to facility the business of bike rental.

Has the software changed over the years? The fundamental concept has not changed since day one (over four years ago), whereby it supports the rental life-cycle. People book bikes, then they use the bikes, nally bikes are maintained. It is there to facilitate this simple life-cycle taking place as ef ciently as possible many times in a season. This holistic approach to supporting rentals, encompassing bookings, service delivery and maintenance has not changed. However, yes, many features have been added: For example, barcode scanning of bikes and emailing customers their reservations to name just a couple these alone can save hours of time per week.

Can you tell us about your new CTO?Yes, were delighted to have got Mark Negus on board. Mark has been working in mainstream software development for over 20 years so brings a wealth of deep technical knowledge and management experience. The creation of his role will allow me to concentrate on building the business while he manages the continued development of the software. Were very lucky to have him, and I consider it a testament to the distance that BRM has travelled in its short life that we were able to attract him to the business.www.bikerentalmanager.comwww.linkedin.com/pub/doug-stoddart/3/291/67

As the rental business grew I spent more time xing

spreadsheets r

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BIkeBiz #103 August 2014

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