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DEAN DOWNING GIVES HIS EXPERT ADVICE ON SPORTIVE’S
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PUBLISHED BY: Cycling World Magazine Limited Crown House John Roberts Business Park Pean Hill, Nr Whitstable Kent CT5 3BJ www.cyclingworldmag.com Tel: 01227 378390 Publisher: Colin Woolley colin@cplmedia.co.uk EDITORIAL: Editor: Scot Whitlock scot@cplmedia.co.uk Art Director: Sarah Carreck sarah@cplmedia.co.uk Production Manager: David Cady production@cplmedia.co.uk Contributors: Scot Whitlock, Ed Shoote, Ian Howes, Mike Martin, Paul Cheese, Keith Gilks, Dean Downing, Dominic Irvine, Richard Peploe Front cover courtesy of Kärnten Werbung Franz Gerdl ADVERTISING: Sales Manager: Simon White simon@cyclingworldmagazine.com Sales Executive: Alice Allwright alice@cyclingworldmag.co.uk Sales Executive: Joe Nardone joe@ cyclingworldmag.co.uk Subscriptions: 01227 378390 Distributed by: COMAG Tavistock Road, West Drayton Middlesex UB7 7QE Tel: 01895 444055 Although every effort is made to ensure
that the content of features in Cycling World is accurate and correct, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for the veracity of claims made by contributors, manufacturers or advertisers. No guarantees can be made upon the safe return of any unsolicited copy or photographic images. The publisher reserves the right to alter or amend any submitted material that is printed in Cycling World. All material in Cycling World is the copyright of the publisher and any reproduction of said material would require written permission from the publisher. © Cycling World Magazine Limited 2015
ISSN: 0143-0238
WELCOME ❘ APRIL 2015 This month I want to discuss the image of cycling and how us cyclists are perceived by the other road users. I have to admit the public image of cycling has improved markedly over the past three years. The pastime was once marginal and rather poncy but since the legacy of the London Olympics and people’s desire for a more healthy lifestyle, cycling has now become cool, chic and a good alternative to the gym. With the sport definitely on the up, why is it that cyclists are still vilified by everyone else for being dangerous, impatient, and sometimes downright obnoxious? Probably because some of us are, I am not here to defend or praise good and bad examples of behaviour but I recognise that in a large society you will get a mixture of both, and cycling is no different. I believe because cycling has made a seismic shift from the margins to the mainstream at a rather rapid speed, this has raised awareness of the effects of congestion and the need for sustainable transport with a more determined focus on the greener agenda. The cycling infrastructure is gradually invading all built up areas and will continue to provide a realistic resolution for town planners but it takes money, and lots of it, which is why I feel other road users dislike the increasing Lycra clad amongst us. Unfortunately we are still a minority but we have accepted that the absolute right thing to do, is ride a bike, be it for fitness, commuting or just simple fun. We don’t care if we are increasingly vulnerable as we pedal because riding is part of our lives, it’s in our blood and hey, it’s convenient, healthy, quick, relatively cheap and great fun. The unusual weird members of society are those that choose not to pedal, as they endlessly wait in traffic and unapologetically pollute the atmosphere with fuel guzzling SUV’s. In this Issue we have some great tales as we continue Cycling East with Ed Shoote, discover another side of Mallorca, and Keith Gilks interviews the enigmatic Paul Cheese about mixing cycling and music. I venture to the coast of Lincolnshire, and we get some tips from Dean Downing ahead of the Virgin Cyclone event. Happy pedalling Scot Editor, Cycling World
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CONTENTS â?˜ APRIL 2015
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This month I want to discuss the image of cycling and how us cyclists are perceived by the other road users.
All of this month’s latest news
12 A Welcome in the Woodland
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Thursa Wilde explains the delights of the Highland Titles Nature Reserve.
16 Mallorca
Some much needed Winter sun in Pollenca, Mike Martin explains.
24 Cycling East Adventure
Cycling World learns from Ed Shoote about his journey east.
36 Santiago to Gibraltar – Part Two Ian Howes continues this epic voyage of discovery
44 Paul Cheese Interview
A tasty interview with Paul Cheese – Cyclist, musician, composer
54 Wooden Bike
An innovative Wooden Bike
62 Virgin Cyclone
Dean Downing gives his expert advice on choosing the right sportive.
66 The London Bike Show What was hot at the ExCel.
70 Austria
Austria is becoming a popular destination for cyclists
78 Lincolnshire
Cycling around piers, slot machines and fish and chips on the coast.
86 Tandem Times Tandem team talks
92 Cyclehack
The event runs again in Glasgow
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94 Book Review
Richard Peploe gives us his opinion on ‘The Science of Fitness’ April 2015 l Cycling World
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NEWS ❘ APRIL 2015 Events 2015 added and partners confirmed for Iconic Cycling Events Iconic Cycling Events (ICE) the team behind the popular events; Yorkshire Pedalthon, Bike Bath & Bike Oxford has confirmed it is expanding its portfolio of cycling sportive events in 2015. The Cotswold Crank Up will take place on Sunday, 24th May 2015 supported by Witney cycle shop and cycling club Mickey Cranks. The event will start from the Henry Box School in Witney with a choice of 25, 50 and 80 mile marked routes which will head out into the breathtaking beauty spots around the Cotswolds. The Cotswold Crank Up promises to offer a number of feed-stations which will be bursting with food and drink sourced from local and national companies. Riders can expect a warm welcome home at the end of their ride to collect their medal and to enjoy post ride food and drink. Entries for this event are now open on the website, www. cotswoldcrankup.co.uk via British Cycling. The Iconic Cycling Events have already received support from a number of businesses who have committed to partner the 2015 event series. Partners include, Cyclescheme, Scheckters Organic Energy Drink, Cawston Press, Withy King, Vision for Sport, Walkers Shortbread and Fyffes all of who will have a presence and various offers across the ICE series. They have also secured a number of headline sponsors and official partners for the individual events which include Carter Jonas and Nuffield Health. Richard Best, Event Director, says, “We have been successfully organising cycling events for the last few years and have a
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great formula so the timing is right for us to expand and take Iconic Cycling Events forward. We are passionate about what we do and we want every rider, sponsor and supporter to have an enjoyable and memorable experience at each of our events. We are serious and confident about operating in this busy event space and the number of partners who have committed to
our Iconic Cycling Event series throughout 2015 is testament to this. It’s going to be a busy year, but we are all looking forward to putting on some fantastic cycling events and welcoming back previous cyclists and welcoming new ones.” Iconic Cycling Events will be running the following Sportive events in 2015: Friday 8th May 2015, Yorkshire Pedalthon, Ripley Castle, www. yorkshirepedalthon.co.uk Sunday 24th May 2015, Cotswold Crank Up, Witney, www. costwoldcrankup.co.uk Sunday 5th July 2015, Bike Bath, Bath, www.bikebath.co.uk Sunday 13th September 2015, Bike Oxford, www.bikeoxford.co.uk More information about the event series can also be found on www. iconiccyclingevents.co.uk or email info@iconiccyclingevents.co.uk
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SIGN UP NOW FOR THE CYCLOPARK 2015 TOUR OF THE HOP FIELDS SPORTIVE
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Sunday 1st March, Cyclopark, Kent’s newest extreme sport’s centre launched their ‘Sign Up Now’ campaign motivating and encouraging anyone and everyone to commit and sign up for the park’s first Sportive, the 2015 Tour of the Hop Fields on Sunday 10th May. The Sportive will start and finish at Cyclopark, offering three routes, 33-miles, 50-miles and 70-miles, all covering the spectacular scenery of the Kent countryside, riding through the North Downs, Pilgrims Way and the Weald of Kent. The routes have been developed and planned by the Cyclopark Event Team and caters for all ability levels. The 30-mile route is ideal for the recreational rider, while the 50 and 70-mile routes have been created to offer challenges for the more experienced and competitive cyclists. The park’s onsite bike shop, Velorefined,
is running a ‘Mechanics’ tent situated close to the start holding area. Two Tekno Fuel Sponsored Food Stations on route will provide energy drinks, food and water for all riders. Further encouragement will be offered on the day by event sponsor, Oakley-Bluewater, who is donating a 15% off voucher to riders to redeem on their next Oakley purchase at the Bluewater store. Plus, a hot pasta meal and drink will be served to every rider upon finishing by Cyclocafe. Laurence Tricker, CEO for Cyclopark said: “It’s great that our Sportive is a fixture on the ‘Cycling Calendar’ and being a mass participation cycling event represents exactly what Cyclopark is all about and that is encouraging and supporting people to be active and on wheels. Our Sportive is suitable for riders of any experience or fitness level, whether you are looking for elements of competition or want to ride at a steady pace and enjoy the benefits of a ride with marked directions, food stops and mechanic support. It’s not too late, commit and sign
up today. “By riding the Sportive you are helping the park in raising funds to support the facilities and resources at Cyclopark, whichhelp the growth and development of sport and exercise in Kent. So I would like to say an advanced thank you to those that back our ‘Sign Up Now’ campaign and have a great ride.” HOW TO SIGN UP To ride the 2015 Tour of the Hopfield Sportive visit www.cyclopark.com and click the Sportive information link. Costing just £25 your only decision will be what distance? From all at Cyclopark have a great day riding and thank you for your support.
The one-millionth STRIDER balance bike expected to be sold within weeks STRIDER Bike UK is celebrating the one-millionth sale of its world-leading balance bikes, which it is expecting to happen within weeks, with a golden ticket giveaway. Five tickets will be placed at random in 12” STRIDER bike boxes to be sent out to UK customers throughout March. Each lucky recipient of the STRIDER golden tickets will receive a full refund on the cost of their bike, plus a VIP invitation to the UK Strider Balance Bike Race and fun day at Birmingham BMX racetrack on 6 June 2015 – a package worth in excess of £100. “The golden tickets are our way of saying thank you to STRIDER fans in the UK. With STRIDERS being bought all over the world, it will be impossible to pinpoint who, when or where our one millionth customer will be so in the UK we will be rewarding five of our new customers, all of
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whom could potentially be our millionth,” said Karen Wood, managing director, STRIDER Bike UK. “We are very humbled and a little bit in awe of the success of STRIDER bikes – to sell one million bikes is an amazing feat. Families all over the world really have taken the brand to their hearts. STRIDER bikes make it so easy for young children to learn to ride. They are safe, solid, super light and built for longevity, so they grow with
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the child and can be passed down to younger siblings, making them a really affordable purchase.” STRIDER balance bikes promote a natural method for children to learn balance and riding skills and are responsible for teaching over a million toddlers and young children how to ride, more than any other brand in the world. With fully adjustable seat and handlebars, STRIDER bikes are suitable for children from 18 months to five years. They are super light, easy to control, feature puncture proof tyres and are available to buy in a range of colours and models, which can be seen at http://www.striderbike.co.uk The STRIDER bikes brand is supported with STRIDERability classes: opportunities for children to ride and race STRIDER bikers with and against each other at BMX clubs, cycling centres and with private instructors throughout the country.
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FEATURE ❘ ROAD SAFETY
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cyclist left with a severe brain injury after he was hit by a car on the A62 near Oldham has received a £2m settlement to help cover the costs of his rehabilitation and care needs. John Wellock, 61, from Mossley, was hit by a car in September 2010 while riding his bike down the A62 in Delph, near Oldham, when a driver pulled out of a side road in front of him. The Defendant driver pleaded guilty to driving without due care and attention before Magistrates at Oldham Magistrates Court in 2011. John was wearing a cycling helmet, without which he believes he would not have
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been here today. He was a keen cyclist at the time of his accident, an activity he had taken up to control his diabetes. However, as a result of the accident, John suffered a traumatic brain injury and was in a coma. He spent nine months in hospital and intensive rehabilitation. His injuries have left him dependent on his wife Elaine. In approving the settlement terms His Honour Mr Justice Blake paid tribute to Elaine for the care she had given to John and for the burden that she continues to bear in that regard. The couple instructed specialist serious injury solicitors at Irwin Mitchell to investigate the crash and following an
admission of liability by the defendant’s insurers, lawyers at the firm have now secured a £2m out-of-court settlement*. This will allow John to continue with his rehabilitation. The settlement was approved by the High Court in Manchester (13/01/2015). As part of the settlement there is provision for the family to return to Court if John later develops uncontrolled epilepsy as a result of his brain injury. John now attends his local Headway Group and is passionate about campaigning for the wearing of cycle helmets to be made compulsory for everyone (as it has been in
Brain Injured Cyclist Secures £2 million Settlement
FEATURE ❘ ROAD SAFETY
Lawyers Secure Settlement For Rehabilitation And Care After Cycling Crash
Jersey although only for children). He has been writing letters with the help of his wife to his local newspaper about this issue. John said: “I believe wearing a cycle helmet saved my life. I’ve been campaigning to try and make them compulsory for all. Anything that can be done to improve safety for cyclists is extremely important.” Geraldine McCool, a specialist serious injury lawyer at Irwin Mitchell, representing him, said: “This was a terrible accident and highlights how vulnerable cyclists can be on the roads. John’s life will never be the same again but at least now we have secured the settlement he will be able to access the
expert support, care and rehabilitation he needs to help with his recovery. This is a big relief for the family that they their future needs will be provided for. “Drivers need to ensure they take more care in relation to vulnerable road users such as cyclists and pedestrians. As this accident shows cycling injuries can be extremely serious and have life-changing consequences so it is vital that all road users look out for each other as much as possible.” Before the accident John was a selfemployed estimator/salesman for an interior
design company but will now never be able to work again. Elaine also gave up her job to take care of her husband. John’s wife, Elaine said: “The settlement is a massive relief and a weight off our shoulders. We can now look to the future as we know that John’s care needs will be taken care of for the rest of his life. “We know nothing will ever be the same again but at least now we have some comfort in knowing that we have the security provided by the settlement.”
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FEATURE ❘ HIGHLAND TITLES NATURE RESERVE
A Welcome in the Woodland The Highland Titles Nature Reserve has been under construction for two years and Thursa Wilde explains how they are beginning to see results
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hen route 78 of the National Cycle Network was being planned by Sustrans the people at Highland Titles Nature Reserve got very excited. Route 78, also known as the Caledonia Way, runs from Oban to Fort William, along some beautiful country: round the Lynn of Lorn, Loch Creran, and trailing along the eastern shore of Loch Linnhe where Highland Titles Nature Reserve sits just south of Duror. Heartwarming scenery comes with the territory. Highland Titles Nature Reserve has been under construction for two years and they are beginning to see results. The restoration of original deciduous woodland and with it, indigenous flora and fauna, is a long undertaking for Highland Titles Charitable
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Trust, which uses profits supplied by Highland Titles Ltd from the sale of souvenir plots to people all over the world. When Highland Titles acquired this land, most of it was planted with sitka spruce, a non-native variety of conifer which couldn’t support Scottish wildlife. This is being felled and replaced with native trees. They already boast native species of oak, birch, rowan, alder, holly and hazel and plan to re-introduce Scots pine. 2013 saw the restoration and development of two lochans that will in time increase water bird populations. Most significantly rare wildlife is already coming back into the area, including the red squirrel, pine marten and the chequered skipper butterfly. As one of their volunteer experts, Stewart
Borland, puts it: ‘Nature can’t be hurried, you just can’t rush environmental repair – not if you want to do it properly, with lasting results which will endure for nature, for wildlife, for visitors and for the planet.’ What has all this got to do with the National Cycle Network and route 78? Well, a large section of route 78 follows the path of an old railway line that used to run between Connel and Ballachulish. In 1966 it was closed along with so many branch lines during the Beeching Cuts. For the most part, Sustrans has managed to secure this old railway route for NCN78. Unfortunately in the intervening years small sections of railway land have been used to restructure the A828 which borders Loch Linnhe, and in some cases parts have reverted to farm land. Such is the case on a
FEATURE ❘ HIGHLAND TITLES NATURE RESERVE
section between the villages of Dalnatrat and Duror, along the side of Loch Linnhe, where for commercial reasons a local farm can no longer allow access for the National Cycle Network to pass through. Negotiating with land owners for use of and access over their land is a major occupation for the tireless leaders of Sustrans, and not everyone can bend to their vision. So in Sustrans’ detailed map of route 78 on their excellent website it says the following: ‘Dalnatrat to Duror - 2 miles. Land negotiations mean that it has not been possible to build a path on this section. Cyclists must use the trunk road for almost two miles. Look out for the cycle route signs to the right as you enter Duror village.’
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FEATURE ❘ HIGHLAND TITLES NATURE RESERVE
The A828 is the stretch of trunk road which has to be negotiated, contending with heavy goods lorries and other traffic. The alternative, which Highland Titles Charitable Trust hoped Sustrans would take them up on, was to use their nature reserve. The main pathway which runs South to North through the reserve could by-pass the road altogether until much closer to Duror, where cyclists would meet up with the National Cycle Track again. In the end this didn’t happen. The two reasons Sustrans gave for turning them down were that the A828 would have to be crossed in order to access their trafficfree route, and also that near the end of the nature reserve the incline becomes too steep for cyclists. Route 78 already requires cyclists to cross the A828 several times south of Dalnatrat, so the first reason didn’t
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seem too much of an obstacle. As far as the incline is concerned, it is a very short section of the path and they are still convinced that a small steep hill in a forest is a much less hairier prospect than a major trunk road. Confident that cyclists would rather take advantage of the nature reserve to cycle through than negotiate two miles on the A828, Highland Titles Charitable Trust have invested in a suitable road surface for cyclists. They admit it’s a little more rustic than the Sustrans cycle track would have been. There is a small stream to ford, and there’s little they can do about the section of uphill towards the end of the route where some might have to get off and push (though they are looking at the possibility of levelling the track). But on the whole it’s better than tackling the A828 in normal traffic conditions, with heavy goods lorries
thundering past. What they would like is for cyclists to give the path a try and give them some feedback. They are considering whether it is worth investing in their own brown road sign indicating it as an alternative route for cyclists. As Peter Bevis, one of the directors, says, “please, cyclists of Scotland and beyond, ride through our land! We have a welcome cabin at the southern end of the reserve, and if you like what you find here you can ring your bell when passing the cabin to show your appreciation! You can even stop for a chat with one of the volunteers who are usually on hand to say hello and discuss what’s happening on the reserve.” You can find Highland Titles Nature Reserve easily on Google maps, and the entrance to the site is clearly signposted just off the A828. So polish up your bell and give it a try!
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FEATURE ❘ MALLORCA
I
f you’ve ever started to lose motivation for a ride as the days get shorter and the rain hammers down with tedious regularity but you’re determined to get fitter and faster, a trip to warmer climes is the answer. One of the most popular destinations for cyclists of all abilities for all-year riding is Pollenca, a bay in the north-east corner of Mallorca which has set itself up as a cyclists’ haven – with such success that Bradley Wiggins and the Sky team now regularly train there. Wiggins was so impressed he bought an apartment here – and it’s easy to see why.
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It’s a doddle to get to, a two-hour flight from Gatwick or Stansted to Palma, then an hour on a bus or 45 minutes in a private car from Palma airport going along a new motorway. The bus service is regular and, although it takes a little longer, is clean and efficient. Pollenca itself is the town 6km inland, but the cyclists usually head to Porte de Pollenca, the bay which curves around the top of the island. Some airlines allow bikes for free for groups, for individuals it may cost up to £50 to take your steed, but there are plenty of options to rent one in Porte de Pollenca.
GETTING SETTLED There are plenty of hotels and apartments to choose from. Hotel Uyal is a good choice, a four-star hotel with that all-important bike shed. This is well equipped with a washing machine and dryer exclusively for cyclists, a pump, tools, bike-washing facilities, oil and locks for overnight storage, all free of charge – including washing powder. The hotel also has air-conditioned rooms with balconies, large power showers – essential after a long ride – fruit bowls and a small pool. With the sandy beach the other side of the road the pool is pretty much redundant as the sea water is calm and refreshing. The dryer is
FEATURE ❘ MALLORCA
Some Much Needed Winter Sun in Pollenca
Mike Martin experiences the North-East corner of Mallorca
also not that important most days of the year as your wet clothes will dry in an hour on the beach-facing balcony, but it’s good to have it there for the rainy months – in November and December Mallorca gets a good drenching, as will you. The best rental shop is Sport Bequi BiCi Metrics in Hotel VillaConcha (www. sportbequi.com), which has a large selection of everything from heavy city bikes with a basket, perfect for pootling along the sea front and shopping, to proper road bikes. You are measured and assessed, and given the right bike with a helmet. I was given a Wilier GTR granturismo bike,
with 21 gears and a speedometer, plus a puncture repair kit and pump, all of which costs €20 per day. The longer you have it the cheaper it gets per day, for example for six days it will cost €110 in total instead of €120. It costs €1,350 to buy, if you’re feeling flush. Helmets are an extra €1 a day, but there’s an obvious solution there – bring your own. It is also highly recommended you take your own saddle if renting a bike – you are used to it, it takes up little of your luggage space and a new one will always rub a little – which amounts to a lot of pain over four days. Sport Bequi also sells clothing,
helmets, tools, drinks and footwear, and the friendly, attentive staff are happy to talk you through routes and ideas for rides. They open at 9am and close at 7pm but if you want to return a bike you can do so through the adjoining hotel’s reception. I was also given an excellent local maps with routes on them, produced by the Pollenca tourist board. These are clearly printed, concise, and have exact directions, distances and height gained, plus a handy guide of difficulty from one to five. The times are obviously approximate as they will depend on your fitness levels, and there are five routes to choose from. On the other
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FEATURE ❘ MALLORCA
side is a map of the whole of Mallorca, with a ride from Pollenca to Campos of 86km.
HIT THE HOT TARMAC I’m an average-level cyclist, completing six laps of Regent’s Park a day at moderate pace, and I completed three local rides in three days in 27 degree heat. The first was No5, Pollenca to Santuari de la Victoria, which is perfect if you are on a new bike as the first part is flat, 7km heading south along the bay. This gives you plenty of road to get the feel of your new bike, test the brakes and see how fast you are going – I was doing 30km/h with real ease on a bike that is far more efficient than my London boneshaker. Once through the town of Alcudia with a couple of stops for red traffic lights, it’s uphill all the way for the next 7km, a total of 131km above sea level. The road twists and turns around the slopes, giving plenty of views of the bay of Pollenca looking north with stunning blue water and beige hills in the distance. In October the sun is still strong and plenty
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of fluids are needed, especially after the steeper climbs – always have two full bottles of water on the bike and top them up whenever you get a chance. The road surfaces are ok, although the worst stretch is ironically the most-used, the main road round the bay itself, which has quite a few potholes and cracks and is ground up by the regular bus services as well as plenty of traffic. The odd swerve is necessary. The really noticeable thing about cycling alone in Pollenca is that you have no need to worry. There are so many other cyclists there, many of them Brits, that if you get lost or have a puncture or an accident there will be someone along very quickly to help you. There is an unwritten law that if you see a stopped cyclist you must stop to check if they are ok – they might just be taking a photo or having a drink, but they may need assistance. The etiquette and spirit of camaraderie is one of the most appealing aspects of cycling here. Having a
rest at one point I got chatting to a cheerful Scot, who told me all about his group of five who flew to Palma with British Airways and took their bikes for free, and how he can’t have a full English breakfast before a ride as he always brings it back up again on the climbs – maybe too much information but all in the spirit of fellow cyclists. On my trip the road abruptly ended at the point where the land becomes military property – a huge metal gate was in place and a telephone call proved in vain, but most of the ride was completed by that point. The return to Pollenca was all downhill, and I was back in time for lunch.
THE LEGEND THAT IS TOLO The one must-visit eaterie for cyclists is Tolo’s, along the bay from the hotel. The first clue is a bike rack outside, then inside it’s a cyclist collector’s dream. Pride of place is Bradley Wiggins’ yellow Tour de France bike hanging from the ceiling, and there are framed, signed shirts adorning the walls and
STATS & FACTS 9 out of 10 Danes own a bike Research confirms that cycling not only makes you fitter but also more alert and cleverer 80% of bike accidents occur in the daylight
lots of photos from yesteryear. Tolo himself is a keen cyclist who goes out most days on his bike, and is more than happy to discuss routes and the best places to ride. The food is excellent tapas, there is a long wine list with plenty of local reds, and the atmosphere is lively. Ride two was actually no1, Cala Sant Vicenc, a gentle 8km heading along the busy road towards Pollenca town before turning right and heading up 42m towards a tiny town with excellent beaches. The main road requires a helmet by law, but they are
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recommended for all roads in Pollenca. The town has lovely beaches and is the best spot for kayaking and diving, which can be easily arranged. There are lots of romantic looking caves – apparently Pollenca is riddled with them and one has been measured as 78km long. They are still being explored by experts, but of course were perfect for the days of pirates and smuggling.
THE PIRATE PROBLEM The authorities had to do something about this problem, and one of their solutions was
a tower built right at the top of Formentor to the north-east of Pollenca, which brings up to the third, and toughest, ride of the trip. Again it’s a gentle warm-up along the flat roads of the bay, but you can see the range looming up in front of you. Through the town you hit the bottom of the first climb, in total you will ride 18km and rise 480m. The road curls round to the north, giving glimpses of Pollenca disappearing in the distance behind before going right over the other side of the range to give views of
FEATURE ❘ MALLORCA
INFORMATION: For more Information on accommodation, tourism and activities in and around Pollenca see Pollenca Tourism www.pollensa.com and Pollenca Hotel Association www.enjoypollensa.com Classic Collection Holidays (0800 294 9318) offers 3 nights at 4* Hoposa Hotel Uyal from £ ( or 7 nights from £ per person), based on 2 adults sharing a twin / double room on a half board dining basis and includes return flights and private transfers. www.classiccollection.co.uk and www.hoposa.es/ English/Hotels/Hotel-Uyal-Puerto-Pollensa Restaurants Stay Restaurant, Port de Pollença - 3 course menus with wine from €35 pp www.stayrestaurant.com Tel: + 34 971 864 013 Clivia Restaurant, Pollenca www.es-es.facebook.com/Cliviarestaurant Tel: + 34 971 533 635 (our host: Luis Garcia) Restaurante 365, 5* Boutique Hotel & Spa Son Brull www.sonbrull.com Tel: + 34 971 53 53 53
the north side of the coast with the tower in the distance. Then it’s down the other side before another huge climb to Cap de Formentor and a perfect lighthouse right on the end of the land. This is a great spot for watching migrating birds apparently – I was too busy catching my breath to spot any. The road, although perfectly tarmacked, is very busy and on a Sunday there are a few coaches and buses to manoeuvre around on the bends – take it easy and be patient. Back in Pollenca a quick dip in the Med will bring the body temperature down
– the water is crystal-clear – and after a hot power shower and more water it’s time to refuel. Seafood is the big thing here for obvious reasons, and one of the best is the Stay restaurant, jutting out into the jetty with boats’ masts tinkling in the background. The style is modern Mediterranean cooking, with skewers of prawns and sea bass, finely chopped salads, roast cod and plenty of calamari. The whites are crisp and the perfect accompaniment, and sitting outside with the heaters on it’s a great way to replace
those burnt calories and forget about the lactic acid burning the thighs. The first bike race in Mallorca took place in 1892, and it has always had a special place for cycling in its culture. Its first velodrome, built in the 1930s, is long gone but with road routes like this just in Pollenca it’s not hard to see why it is so popular with locals and visitors alike. As those dark winter nights really bite why not book a trip to a spot which will welcome you with warmth, and not just from the sun.
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FEATURE ❘ MALLORCA
Las Palmeras, the perfect retreat for cyclists
INFORMATION: This stunning property is located in the epicentre of Mallorca’s thriving cycling scene.
www.facebook.com/lasp99
S
ituated on the outskirts of the tranquil village of Portol, within walking distance to bars, restaurants and shops, and five minutes from the epicentre of Mallorca cycling, the market town of Santa Maria with its several cycling focused cafe bars and a good sized rental bike shop. Only fifteen minutes drive from Palma International Airport and central Palma, and easy access to beaches all over the island. Las Palmeras is a stunning property set in beautiful idyllic grounds. The property consists of three separate accommodation buildings, with two pools set on a tiered elevated position surrounded by immaculately maintained gardens. There is also a large double garage, perfect for storing a large number of bikes securely, or using as a workshop, and a modern steam room. For cyclists the property is perfectly situated to take advantage of the full diversity that Mallorca offers to cycling. Being close to the foot hills of the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, offering some of Europe’s best climbing and mountain passes that can be accessed year round. For a taster, there is a comfortable 50km route taking you either clockwise or anticlockwise from Santa Maria to Alaro or Bunyola and taking the loop through Orient. This scenic route takes you up the Col d’Honer (550m) and Col d’Orient
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(500m) and right into the heart of the Serra de Tramuntana national park. For something more challenging, then head for the 8km climb up the Col de sa Batalla. At Lluc, you will have the choice of a fast descent to the popular coastal town of Port de Pollenca, or the stunning mountain pass leading across the entire Serra de Tramuntana mountain range. This includes the option of descending down to the fishing village of Sa Calobra, to turn around and tackle one of Mallorca’s greatest climbs. Continue heading in the direction of Soller, where you will pass the highest point in Mallorca, Puig Major, and eventually the breathtaking descent into Soller. With a
good selection of bars and restaurants, this is a good time to stop for some refreshments before tackling the Col de Soller and heading back to Las Palmeras. If you would prefer a flatter ride and the chance of seeing Mallorca’s dramatic coastline then you just need to head south from Las Palmeras to enjoy the quiet rural roads that crisscross the entire Island. There are also excellent roads that are perfect for any time trialist or triathlete. At the end of a hard day in the saddle, Las Palmeras has the choice of either a heated or unheated pool, a steam room and a large outside dining area to unwind and enjoy the company of friends or fellow cyclists.
LAS PALMERAS
Is a luxury holiday property near Santa Maria, Mallorca. Ideal for cyclists, sleeps 9, secure bike garage, steam room, 2 pools, 2 BBQ’s, beautiful gardens. From 2000 euros a week.
Hartfield House hostel
Contact: Facebook.com/lasp99 0034 634 335 273
Hartfield House hostel is situated on the Applecross peninsula, at the foot of the iconic Bealach-na-Ba. Originally the old hunting lodge on the Applecross Estate, it is a large old building set in its own grounds. Hartfield House is the perfect base for any cyclist, benefitting from a covered bike area, kit store, drying rooms, ample hot showers and wet rooms and plenty of outdoor space for tinkering with bikes. For road cycling enthusiasts, the Bealach-na-Ba is the highest road in the UK, with Alpine style hairpins and breathtaking views. No less challenging is the coast road looking out over the islands of Skye and the Outer Hebrides. For mountain bikers, Hartfield House sits at the start of the spectacular Kenmore Path, and the world renowned routes of the Torridon Mountains are just a short drive.
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Hartfield House sleeps 50 in a mix of single, twin and triple rooms. The hostel is ideal for small or large groups and full catering can be provided on request. From £18pppn.
Contact Tel: 01520 744 333 email info@hartfieldhouse.org.uk Quote ref: cyclingworld to claim your 10% discount and free cake on arrival.
For your cycling place email
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Cycling East Adventure FEATURE ❘ EXPLORATION
Ed Shoote tells Cycling World about his momentous journey
O
n a grey cold October day my tired legs pushed the pedals agonisingly slowly while I cycled up the potholed gravel road to the isolated Kazakhstan border. I didn’t seem to be making any progress through the vast empty steppe curtained only by the foothills rising towards the impressive Tian Shan Mountains in the east. The dark menacing clouds overhead had been slowly building since this morning. I was riding as fast as I could, but not because of the incoming weather. The kind mother of the Kyrgyz family I had stayed with last night had told me that the seasonal border checkpoint at Kegen was open for one more day. But she
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didn’t mention what time the border might close and my mind was racing: would it be 5pm? Maybe 6pm or a depressingly early 4.30pm? I was battling the clock to cover the distance and to make matters worse a diagonal headwind had set in soon after leaving Karakol. On one stretch a lonely car appeared from behind me and stopped just ahead. Out here on my own I couldn’t help but feel vulnerable and my heart raced as the doors opened; one person then another, then another and another got out of the car, it was like some kind of contortion trick: a total of 8 people plus a baby emerged. As soon as I saw them
I knew my concern was unfounded and the occupants would be friendly. We posed for pictures and laughed a lot about something in Russian, a joke that was entirely unknown to me. I cheerfully waved goodbye as all of them piled back into the sagging estate car. I rode onwards in perfect isolation before a settlement of nomadic horse and goat herders appeared. Their livestock was busy grazing across the steppe having recently returned from the freshly snow-covered higher summer pastures. It was bizarre to be racing the clock through a land of nomads where the concept of keeping time is noting the first snowfalls of winter or the green shoots of spring. Between the misty clouds
FEATURE â?˜ EXPLORATION
I caught glimpses of the magnificent 7000m Tian Shan snow-capped mountains; it was the allure of this timeless and enchanting landscape that had inspired me to ride east for 9000km. The long and winding road to Kazakhstan started about three months back when I set out on a bike ride with my wife that had a beautiful simplicity: we took two bikes and each morning we swung a leg over the saddle and just cycled east. I had visions of cycling into China and towards the Himalayas but Marion had set her sights on Georgia; however there was no real plan beyond following the rising sun. I was doing the long haul touring set-up
a bit differently: I was going fast and light by using a titanium/carbon Kinesis Tripster ATR, a bike with an innovative geometry that handles all roads and long hours in the saddle comfortably. I fitted Spyre SLC disc brakes and my favourite 25mm Continental Gatorskin tyres on lightweight 28 spoke Kinesis wheels. My limited camping kit and spare clothes were held by two small panniers on a lightweight rack, supplemented by Apidura bar and saddle bags to spread the weight across the bike. The result was a bike that was not heavy and unwieldy, but fast and more importantly fun to ride. Marion had a similar set-up but on a steel framed and carbon forked CX bike with
18 spoke Fulcrum road wheels and two small panniers Like all good adventures the final preparations were a little manic, the first ride on my finished bike was also the start of the tour! Riding from Suffolk meant we could casually spin over to the port of Harwich for the 11pm crossing to Holland. A nice gentle warm up before starting out on the same roads that would carry us east onto unknown adventures. It wasn’t to be a great start because just a few miles off the ferry we got lost in Rotterdam. The maze of cycle paths and signs had become too confusing. Eventually we broke free and enjoyed riding along
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FEATURE ❘ EXPLORATION
the raised canal tow paths, occasionally dropping down to eat fresh strawberries or cherries at farm shops before stealthily drafting some elderly Dutch ladies on their speedy electric bikes. The realisation of what we were undertaking didn’t really sink in yet, mainly because Holland was so flat and easy to ride. The next day we entered Germany without noticing because the dyke-side cycle paths carried on seamlessly. We decided to follow the Rhine for a while before we turned off at Xanten, home to a fascinating Roman historical walled city right next to the enchanting mediaeval city centre – it was well worth the ice cream detour. The network of cycle paths through the pleasantly undulating rural German farming landscape amazed us. I did find their indirectness frustrating at times. They generally added about 20% onto the equivalent road mileage: the price to pay for quiet roads and traffic free routes. Without warning the paths often varied from super smooth tarmac to muddy tracks through forests testing our skinny tyres’ traction. At some points we took a more direct road route but the German drivers were quick to honk and, sometimes aggressively, shout directions back to the nearest cycle path! Cycling in mid-summer meant we stumbled upon many festivals including cultural and music festivals and a large vegan festival, but sadly no beer festivals! Our timing also meant we could follow the World Cup from within Germany: football fever was going through the roof. One day we rode past a huge circus marquee in a random field so naturally we detoured to see what was happening. It turned out that a friendly farmer had set up a giant beer tent for 500 locals to watch the World Cup in. An old London double decker bus served as a bar – sadly it was broken down otherwise he would’ve joined us with a support vehicle! The old East German border crept up on us much quicker than we expected and it was a poignant moment on our quest east. From the interesting city of Leipzig
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FEATURE ❘ EXPLORATION
we decided to avoid a collision with Ukraine and detoured south through persistent rain towards Colditz Castle. This was the infamous location of many ingenious British POW escape plots and amazingly there’s still a glider in the attic that the British secretly built. Today security is less strict at the castle, meaning we just cycled straight into the heart of this imposing white fortress and explored. The first major climb of the trip ambled high up into dense forest and into thick mist at the Czech Republic border. In the Czech Republic we were struck by daily thunderstorms – well not literally struck, but at 4pm each day it made a good excuse for cake and coffee. However the real storm hit a few days later when we watched the World Cup final in a little rural Czech pub. Together with the locals we reached a consensus that we disliked Germany slightly less than Argentina, so we cheered while the Czech beer at 30p a pint was flowing a bit too fast. In the morning we staggered out of our tent and discovered we had been given some hand-made pottery tankards. It was a kind gesture but my lightweight touring mantra doesn’t extend to ceramic beer vessels so they sadly had to be returned! We arrived into Prague on a Friday night after a pleasant few days riding. We saw the sights and dodged tourists in central Prague before speeding south through more rural Czech landscapes and many lovely historical towns en route to Slovakia. This was a country that, truth be told, I didn’t know anything about other than it wasn’t Slovenia. We were in for a pleasant surprise. The best decision we made was to follow the High Tatras Mountains due east before dropping south into the Slovakia Paradise National Park. The mountains here were wild with lush green forest creeping up towards the rocky summits of the highest peaks. It was a wonderful backdrop to some big road climbs on quiet, smooth tarmac. The roadsides were dotted by the cars of local mushroompickers darting off into the forests to
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dodge the wolves and bears and pick some impressively big fungi. Flat as a pancake, Hungary was next up, but we decided to take a rest-day and headed back west into Budapest. We were in heaven as we soaked our aching legs in the famously decadent natural spa baths, an experience I highly recommend! This was a pleasant distraction from the extremely flat Hungarian farming landscape. What better way to mix it up than by cycling into Transylvania: home to Vlad the Impaler a.k.a. Count Dracula. I challenge
anyone not to be stirred by the excitement and potential adventures that this name conjures up. In Romania we detoured high up into the remote Apuseni Mountains where the traditional wooden villages lined the hillsides. The locals were a mix of headscarf-wearing old ladies and welldressed farmers. It looked as if time had stood still for generations: hay stacks were under construction and horse and carts rattled up and down the mountain tracks. Further south was Romania’s Transfagarasan Highway a place notorious
FEATURE ❘ EXPLORATION
in the UK after being declared by Top Gear as the best road in the world to drive – they claimed it’s even better than Italy’s Stelvio Pass. It applies to cycling too: it’s hard to say the best in the world for anything, but I don’t think it’s far off the mark. The road rises from 400m up to 2034m in a climb that has everything: great views of rugged mountains, scary tunnels, endless hairpins and very few cars. It is truly epic and will push even the fittest to the limit; however there’s a cake shop halfway up! Happily we avoided any vampires or
impaling in Transylvania, however we did nearly get locked in a torture tower in the fairy tale inspired Hunedoara castle! By now cycling was becoming the routine; we were living simply and all that mattered was spinning the pedals east towards that all-important next meal. We never struggled to find shelter at night: we camped at cheap camp-sites, slept behind hedges, had restless nights in creepy forests and even splashed out on the occasional B&B. I am a cycling addict and for me the riding was always a lot of fun whatever adventures
arose, each day the new roads, challenging climbs and friendly people motivated me. It helped that our bike set-ups were comfortable and light, so it was always a pleasure to start out every morning. The weather was relatively mixed but I always had a smile on my face. As the mountains faded, the vast agrarian plains stretched south towards the mighty Danube; this is the least appealing part of Romania. It was an area we crossed quickly; in fact we hit our first 100 mile day here, helping keep our average at 100km / day for
April 2015 l Cycling World
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FEATURE ❘ EXPLORATION
the entire trip. Soon after arriving in Bulgaria we enjoyed a long climb up a beautiful pass south of Troyan. The road left behind traditional villages in the valley, passing through alpine meadows to a dramatic finish at a gigantic concrete arch that housed four imposing angular Soviet-style statues. Once down the other side it was all about putting our heads down and spinning across the flat plains to Burgas on the Black Sea coast. The first stretch of Bulgarian coastline was on busy roads and not great cycling, but it became quieter and more pleasant towards Turkey.
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Once in Turkey we cycled into the city of Kirklareli which was a food-lovers paradise. I ate good quality kebabs, pide, cheesy borek, great salads, cakes, fresh bread with koftes, all washed down with aromatic chai – and that was in the first few hours! And so we reached Istanbul after about a month’s riding from England. Last year we rode from France to Istanbul via the Adriatic coast and we arrived into a tense atmosphere of riots but this year things were much more peaceful. We explored the numerous huge mosques, rode around the city walls, visited the basilica cistern,
wandered around the Spice Bazaar and Grand Bazaar – all sights that make this cultural melting pot of a city so fascinating. It was goodbye Europe after we unloaded from the Bosporus ferry and rode on Asian soil for the first time. The touristic sightseeing was over and the hard work was starting. That day we slogged up a climb towards the Black Sea coast and it was so hot we passed an overheated bus. I had picked up rehydration salts and drank seven litres of water; this would become the norm for riding in Turkey. This might sound ignorant but Turkey was a much bigger
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FEATURE ❘ EXPLORATION
country than we anticipated – it took a full week longer than we had planned to cross. The soaring summer temperatures combined with relentless coastal climbs took their toll and we had to drop below our 100km daily average just to keep going. The coastline started as a rough track tracing the steep headlands and even when it widened out it was refreshingly free from tourists. The warm moist climate fosters a lush green landscape contrasting against the deep blue sea and it becomes a land of plenty in the summer. We picked or were given juicy figs, apples, hazelnuts, peaches, grapes, apricots and more – we certainly never went hungry! The Black Sea coastal road has been compared to Route 66 in California and parts were certainly world class to ride, with spectacular cliff top views. Most nights we wild camped on the beach, cooling off in the blue water that calmly rolled onto
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the pebble beaches. The hospitality in Turkey was humbling and unlike anything we had experienced before. In one village we stopped to ask a few old folk if we could camp on the beach. They were like so many people we saw, sitting and sorting out vast piles of drying hazelnuts. After they gave us directions and we started unpacking a lady walked over laden with a tray full of Turkish delicacies for us! It was a delicious meal of chai, tomato and mint soup, lamb and aubergine stew accompanied by a bulgar wheat salad. This was nothing out of the ordinary in a country that embraces foreigners with such kind hospitality. The last few days in Turkey were still scenic if you could look beyond the ugly shore-hugging dual carriageway. We had contemplated detouring up into the mountains, but we had heard many stories of gigantic angry sheepdogs that dislike cyclists lurking in the mists. We had already
encountered these notoriously monstrous mutts first hand after an earlier section of road had been obstructed by two large sheepdogs. They sat staring at us and we knew trouble was brewing. I vowed to ride on cautiously, the dogs still sitting silently – then suddenly teeth were bared and a deep growl turned into an angry bark and they started charging towards us. A man appeared through the hedge in the nick of time, carrying a rifle – he shouted to call the dogs off, fired the gun into the air and finally they stopped. Luckily nothing came of it, but it put us off going into the mountains. Finally we arrived into Georgia where we cycled away from the coastline and up into the mountainous autonomous region of Adjara. The area is famous for its ancient stone bridges that betray their great age by being delicately thin and superbly engineered way back in the 13th century. We cycled through the pretty village of Khulo
FEATURE ❘ EXPLORATION
perched in the mountains, following the road up a huge pass, so high that we entered the cloud. At the top the tarmac literally ended and the descent was on a rough forest track littered with eerie abandoned buildings. The road led east to the town of Akhaltsikte, home to an impressively imposing hilltop castle and many surrounding monasteries. At one monastery a group of locals and monks were chatting when we arrived on a dark evening looking for a camp spot. They spoke no English but the language barrier didn’t stop one bearded monk in his black robes breaking into a rendition of Queen’s song ‘Bicycle’ it was surreal to say the least. A day later we cruised into Tbilisi and this was Marion’s finishing line. Together we had completed more than 5000km and crossed ten countries. From the outset I had intended to carry on alone, but parting was much tougher than I expected. I really questioned why I was doing this, would it be
the same on my own? I became more aware of my vulnerability and was feeling nervous about cycling a part of the world that I knew very little about. After the tearful farewell I rode anxiously out of Tbilisi on my own. As the road opened out I had a moment of reflection: my mind turned back to an experience in Prague where I had sat next to a Nigerian chap in a white sailor suit as he looked bored trying to
sell boat trips. He asked me what I was doing and I explained I was cycling east towards China. He went quiet and I asked “do you think I’m crazy?” He replied “no, not at all – I think everyone else is crazy for not trying”. Whatever lurked in store for me it surely couldn’t be as bad as that feeling of quitting now, part way through this adventure of a lifetime. Ed’s amazing journey continues in our next issue.
April 2015 l Cycling World
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FEATURE ❘ SANTIAGO TO GIBRALTAR
T
Castelo Branco – Arronches
oday was a special day for one of the riders, it was Jimmy Alcantara’s 57th birthday. Prior to departing the group gathered around him and sung him happy birthday. This shows the dedication of the rider to the event. Though the sun was out the air was colder than other days, therefore the riders kitted up with extra levels of clothing, though these were removed mid- morning due to the temperature rising to 40 degrees. Today’s ride was scheduled to be shortest of all, at 106km and it was meant to be ridden at a recovery pace. There were only two climbs of importance a category 3 of 5.71Km in length at 30Km into the ride and a category 4 of 8Km at 41Km. After the 2nd climb the group arrived at Nisa a beautiful small town, all the main roads leading to and exiting were all made of Cobble stones. An experience which a cyclist never seems to get used to riding in. Here they stopped for some refreshments. As in the previous towns the team stopped in, they were looked upon by the locals some with surprise. What and why are 9 cyclists, dressed with the same kit conversing in ‘Yanito’ doing in their town. One of them actually generated the courage to come up to us and in a gibberish English enquired what we were doing. He was somewhat flabbergasted when he was told of our challenge and somewhat bewildered that it was all to collect monetary donations for two charities, after conversing with him he wished us a safe journey. After Alpahao the riders were scheduled to take the junction for the IP2 to Portalegre, which was the route some of the riders had taken last year but unfortunately over the last few days the road agency had affixed a sign thereat restricting the passage of cyclists on that road. It was decision time, the support van was contacted and with the help of their GPS map a new route circumventing part of this road was communicated to the team. This was not a great issue other than the riders would have to cycle an additional 18Km Upon finally reaching the IP2 at its junction with Alagoa there were no signs impeding the riders to travel on it, they were back on track via the planned route to Arronches. Reaching the N371 which would take the riders to their final destination but it was clearly visible that the width of the road had changed. Although the road surface was good, they were narrower and they consisted of one lane either way which resulted in all vehicles on the road being closer to each other, thus articulated trucks travelling at speeds and overtaking a rider will resulted in the rider being pushed from side to side, an experience we are used to encountering though always with some form of trepidation. One must say that in general drivers do respect cyclists.
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A charity ride of epic Ian Howes Continues his journey towards Gibraltar.
FEATURE ❘ SANTIAGO TO GIBRALTAR
proportions wo Part T
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Before arriving at our destination for the night the cyclists rode through two Police road blocks situated at main road junctions. From far away the team saw that there were numerous vehicles on the side of the road with a number of police officers in the area. They continued cycling and a few metres away they were waved on to continue. Upon passing the officers it seemed that they were recruits being shown the process of vehicle stop checks. The second stop check was similar to the first, again the riders were waved to continue. Finally the riders arrived at the hotel and the birthday boy could now relax and enjoy some quality evening time with his colleagues. The riders were in full spirit though some of
Arronches (Portugal) – Monesterio (Spain) them were already feeling in their legs the number of kilometres already covered. The departure time was brought forward to 8.00 a.m. due to the time change when entering Spain. The riders left Arronches which is located approximately 35km from the border with Spain. The road to the border was well tarmacked and straight with few intersections which made it safe to ride. Challenging opportunities were encountered as it offered deep undulations with high gradients. On reaching the border with Spain, apart from the old disused Customs building and a sign depicting that one was entering the country there was little evidence to show that one had cycled across the border. There
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are no passport or customs controls as both countries are members of the Schengen Agreement. Today’s weather was not that kind to the riders, temperatures were rising steadily at a fast rate reaching a maximum of 38 degrees with an average of 31.8 degrees for the ride. They had to face a a strong head wind which made the riders work hard to progress. Shortly after the border, the riders entered the historical city of Badajoz crossing the Guadiana river before circling the city walls. Traffic was heavy especially when crossing the intersection road leading to Madrid and they had to endure a stop/start motion due to number of traffic lights. The riders then rode along the N432 towards La Albuera which, incidentally will be celebrating the anniversary of the Battle of the same name which took place on the 18th May 1811 during the Napoleonic Wars. The riders took the opportunuity to stop at this town for some refreshments. Being
somewhat inquisitive, some elders of the town approached the riders and enquired from them the reasons for their presence there and the uniformity of the kit being worn. Once they were informed of the purposes of the event and the distances involved they were somewhat overwhelmed and wished the riders a safe journey and every success. Having replenished their energy they continued riding along the N432 making their way towards the end of the stage at Monesterio. The riders then turned into the N630 which used to be the main road from Sevilla to Merida and further north, in fact up to Gijon in Asturias. This service road was in a very good state and hardly any traffic was encountered as the main thoroughfare used now is the A66, a dual carriageway. The N630 is known as La Ruta de la Plata which is commonly used by pilgrims making their way to Santiago de Compostella, coincidentally a number of pilgrims were met
C c
LonD
tO PaR 01– 05 July 2015
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22–27 September 2015
Geneva to Nice Cycle Challenge This demanding and spectacular 550 km ride takes us from lakeside Geneva, through the Alps and Provence via picturesque towns and quiet valley roads, south towards the Mediterranean city of Nice. You’ll feel incredible as you ďŹ nish this epic ride by the beach, most importantly, you’ll have done something truly amazing for people affected by cancer.
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FEATURE ❘ SANTIAGO TO GIBRALTAR on route there. Riding through this plain (which was covered with vines and solar panel farms), at a distance it was visible that the the terrain gradually ascended up to 600 metres between the level of the plain and Monesterio. It was a very hard ride, the heat was unbearable and the riders were consuming approximately 500ml of water every 10km. There was a sense of achievement by the riders upon completing this climb to Monesterio and this stage after having riden a total 827km so far. A total distance of 161km was covered in this stage in a riding time of 6 hours 42 mins at an average speed of 24.1km hr and ascending 1300 metres. A special mention has to be made on the oldest rider of the team with 62 years, Michael Vella. Throughout Michael has shown motivation, stamina and determination to complete this challenge. The team could now relax to tackle tomorrow’s stage from Monesterio to Los Palacios and Villafranca an approximate distance of 125km.
Monesterio - Los Palacios y Villafranca
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The stage today covered a distance of 126 km to Los Palacios which is located 20 kilometres south of Seville. Although substantial planning had been made in an endeavour not to encounter difficulties crossing Seville, it was going to be a challenging ride. The riders continued to be high in spirit, however their legs were beginning to feel slightly heavy after having covered a total distance of 827 kilometres and climbing 10500 metres in the last 6 days. For the second consecutive day, the weather played against riders as they were cycling against a strong head wind immediately upon leaving Monesterio, and the heat was going to be a factor, especially when getting closer to Seville, which was estimated to be at around noon. It was 8.30a.m. when the riders set off. The sun was out, though there was a chill in the air. As soon as the riders cycled out of the town the ride became a cyclist’s paradise. After having climbed the previous day to Monesterio, it was now time for a well-earned 6 kilometre descent. This allowed the riders to reach speeds of 70 km/h, down the long winding roads of the N630 After this adrenalin rush, the road eased off and became relatively flat with intermittent gradients rising and descending. The road surface was excellent, with hardly any traffic. The team rode across Santa Ollala del Cala
a village situated in the southern slopes of the foothills of the Sierra Morena mountain range close to the border between the regions of Andalucia and Extremadura. On the summit of the mountain a castle fortress majestically overlooked the village. 23 kilometres further south the riders cycled through the town of El Ronquillo and then had to ride up La Cuesta de la Media Fanega, a 3.5 Km hill with and average gradient of 5.5%, stopping at its summit to replenish with liquids. They continued along the N630 passing the town of Santi Ponce where the ruins of the Roman city of Italica were visible. Once navigating through the heavy traffic which the riders were encountering , the heat from the sun shinning above and rising from the tarmac below the riders passed La Isla de La Cartuja which was the start of the cycle lane. This took them through the centre of Seville up to the N4 for their next stop at Los Palacios. As is was planned the riders found the cycle lane which was painted in bright green. Not only were they using the lanes, but there were many other cyclists doing likewise, many of them tourists riding hired bicycles. It took them over an hour to the cross Seville which caused the speed average to drop from 28km//hr upon reaching the outskirts of Seville to 26km/hr. It was however an experience riding through
FEATURE â?˜ SANTIAGO TO GIBRALTAR the city centre passing many well-known historical monuments such as the Torre Del Oro and the Real Betis football stadium. By this time the heat was becoming unbearable, reaching up to a maximum of 40 degrees. It was imperative that the riders kept on drinking fluids as there was a danger of getting dehydrated. Joining the N4 from the cycle lane was a challenge in itself as these lanes are not sign posted but luckily enough the riders who participated in last years event rembered the route to take. Shortly after they were on the N4 cycling towards Dos Hermanas and their final stop of the day at Los Palacios. The team road a total distance of 126km in 4hrs 49min, at an average speed of 26.3km/hr and ascending 1059 metres. Tomorrow is another challenging ride and although not as long as previous Stages at 135km, the riders will be facing greater climbs.
already getting warm. This was the 8th consecutive day of cycling and after having accumulated just under 1000kms, the penultimate stage from Los Palacios y Villafranca to Jimena de la Frontera (Los Angeles) was going to be a challenge. The team left the hostel at 08.40hrs and headed on the N4 towards the junction with the A371 which links Cabezas de San Juan with Villamartin. It was soon evident that this national road was a major link between Sevilla and Cadiz as the cyclists were frequently
swayed by the heavy goods vehicles as they overtook them. There was a strong easterly wind which was somewhat helping the cyclists along the National road. Immediately upon entering the A371 traffic was reduced substantially giving the riders the opportunity to enjoy the scenery including the large numbers of birds of prey flying overhead. They were now cycling against strong winds, this had the effect of reducing their speed substantially to a mere 15-18 km p/hr on a flat road. The riders had never previously experienced these
Los Palacios y Villafranca - Los Angeles (Jimena) Looking at the sky from the bedroom of the one star hostel the team had stayed overnight at Los Palacios, it was evident that it was going to be another hot day. Not a single cloud could be seen in the horizon and although it was only 06.45 in the morning it was
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high winds on the saddle. The riders worst fear, wind, “el Levante”, had finally made an appearance. It was going to be a very hard ride not because of the gradients which they would be encountering on route which ranged from 5% to 10 % in some areas but due to the constant strong head wind. This road took the riders to the A393, for Espera and towards Arcos de la Frontera. Passing the Embalse de Arcos, the riders joined the road towards Algar which provided excellent riding on a good surface. The road bordered the calm waters of the Embalse de Guadalcacin, a reservoir which was so vast that it gave the impression of being an inland sea. With the high temperatures the riders were experiencing at the time, they had a fleeting temptation to pause and dive into the reservoir to cool off! The worst section of the stage was yet to come. After crossing the reservoir the riders started their long ascent towards Puerto de Galiz where they would stop for lunch. Climbing up the hills towards the Puerto, which at times reached gradients of 8%, the riders continued to battle against the strong easterly winds. After reaching the top and having lunch, the riders made their way to their destination of the day, Los Angeles which is commonly known as la estacion Jimena de la Frontera. The last Puerto to climb was Puerto de la Asomadillas at 212 m, which overlooks el Castillo de Jimena. Riding up this hill was not such challenge but more avoiding to be toppled off their bicycles by the strong gusts. Slowly and painfully but surely, the riders kept on until arriving at their destination. The team cycled a total distance of 129km in 5 hrs 52min at an average speed of 22km/ hr., ascending 1800metres. The riders were now enjoying a well earned rest.
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Tomorrow sees the final leg to Gibraltar. The riders expect to arrive at Main Street stopping by the Cathedral St Mary The Crowned at around 11.30hrs and are eager to meet their family and friends and to thank those firms and persons who have supported them.
Monesterio - Los Palacios y Villafranca It was a later start for the riders to complete the last stage of the charity ride, there was a sense of mixed emotions lingering in the air during breakfast, one of happiness for practically completing the event, nervousness that the last stage would be completed without hindrance, sadness that the relationship which had developed between team members would wane and excitement at their impending reunion with families and friends. Once the support van was loaded by the support crew, Ronnie Fawden and Eugene Howes (which one must say have been an integral part of the team making sure that the riders had all the necessary support whenever required), the team departed Los Angeles [Jimena] The riders had only cycled a few metres along the town when they were met by a group of cyclists who had come from Gibraltar to greet them. It was an emotional feeling seeing fellow cyclists applauding them for this achievement. The group of riders which now numbered 15 rode to Gibraltar a distance of 40 Km. Riding at an easy pace averaging 25km/hr. The team were eager to complete the last climb of the event riding along A7 to the junction for San Roque where it would be the first time that they would see the Rock of Gibraltar, the riders stopped and took a
group photograph, after which they rode to Gibraltar. After passing the border into Gibraltar there was a sense of achievement and although no words were uttered the expressions visible on the riders’ faces said it all. At this point the group was met by members of the Royal Gibraltar Police who escorted them to Main Street. After arriving the team was greeted by the Minister for Health and the Environment the Honourable Dr John Cortes and the Minister for Equality and Social Services the Honourable Samantha Sacramento. Family and friends of the riders and support team who had patiently waited for their arrival were also present as were members of the Committees and friends of both Charities. The riders covered a distance of 1123 Kms and ascended a total of 12700 m [Mount Everest is 8848 m high] The team wish to thank all those firms and individuals who have assisted in any way to make this such a successful event and hope that their efforts will have served to raise awareness of the need to help these Charities in the worthy causes they expose. A total of £10773.72 was collected.
THE RACE IS ON! PRUDENTIAL RIDELONDON-SURREY 100 2 August 2015 Join #TeamTeenageCancer today for just £40. At the moment, for every young person we support, there’s another we can’t. Ride with us so that together, we can reach more young people with cancer. Whether you’ve already registered or still need a place, get involved today: Email: Call: Visit:
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Teenage Cancer Trust is a registered charity: 1062559 (England & Wales); SC039757 (Scotland)
FEATURE ❘ INTERVIEW
Keith Gilks speaks with Paul and learns about his passion for cycling and music.
I
first met Paul Cheese (yes, his real name) at last year’s Champions of Cyclesport Dinner. You couldn’t miss him; he was the only one with long blond dreadlocks (yes, his real hair), a dinner jacket and green doc martins. Within minutes I was fascinated by his stories of his latest cycling adventure; in 2013 he cycled over 3600 miles (5887km) across Europe, carrying 45kg of equipment, writing and recording an album along the way. His trip took him from Edam to Gruyeres, then over the Alps to Gorgonzola, finishing in Camembert via a ‘slight’ detour over the Pyrenees. Previous to that, in 2012 he cycled 2000 miles (3200 km) across the UK, covering the furthest points of the compass, carrying 40kg of recording equipment, whilst finding interesting and inspirational locations to record an album. I had to learn more, and kindly Paul invited me to his studio in Kent. Paul’s studio is a converted Granary situated amongst other ancient farm buildings, typical of the style and type found
in rural Kent. A wonderful setting. The plan was to have a quick tour of the studio and then off to a pub to hold the interview over lunch. (I feel it is important to keep journalistic traditions alive). However due to Paul’s enthusiasm to share his cycling and musical experiences, two hours flew by and we had to rush to our gastronomical destination before last orders!
WHAT IS YOUR NORMAL DAY JOB? Over the years I have had many different jobs to support my music and adventure. I am lucky enough now to have so many ‘thumbs in musical pies’ that amount to a living. I believe nowadays that is the definition of ‘making it’. Today I run my own recording studio, recording everything from metal bands that push you faster down hills, to big dance tunes that help you up mountains. I also work with singer-song writers, write music for TV and radio and, most rewardingly teach guitar/music. (I actually continued to
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FEATURE ❘ INTERVIEW teach some of my students via Skype on my European trip). I have played guitar/ sung in bands, and written songs for as long as I can remember. Also I have always tried to explore further than I was allowed. When I was little, I was told never to go further than the end of the road. Well, on my gold Raleigh Budgie I used to cycle 10 miles to the ‘big bridge’ and get lost coming back again. I remember being really scared at not knowing where I was and the relief of getting home, but every day I would go out and do it again.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO DO THE 2000 MILE BRITISH TRIP? INSPIRATION1: I had an ambition to go out the front door, get on my bike and keep cycling left until I couldn’t go any further. So in 2011 I did. That was a shock to the system. Never really cycled for more than two days in a row! Eight days…..
INSPIRATION 2: Whilst snowboarding in Austria at the end of 2011, I decided to take all of my recording
equipment to the top of the mountain, setup, and record a vocal and guitar track whilst looking over the Alps. ‘Bloody blimey’ such an amazing experience. Singing and playing in an inspirational location changes your expression, recording is all about capturing the performance. I tell my clients in the studio to imagine a place/atmosphere when recording a take… In 2012 I went out to find those places. First, my mate Nailz and I said, ‘Lets do Land’s End to John O’Groats’.
Okay, then we thought….why not start at the furthest point east. Great, it’s only just up the road (I live in Sussex). WRONG! The furthest east point of mainland Britain is Lowestoft. Then we thought, well if we are starting at the furthest east…why not do, the furthest east (Lowestoft) then furthest south and furthest west; So… Land’s End. WRONG! Lizard Point is the most southerly point and Ardnamurchan point the most westerly point. We then obviously had to go onto the furthest north; up to John O’Groats….. yep, WRONG! The northerly point is Dunnet head. We only realised this when I googled it five days before we left! But, when you make a plan…’stick to the plan, or don’t make a plan!’ So I ended up carrying 40kg of recording equipment, a guitar and a suit nearly 2000 miles in the wettest June on record. Thirty days, only six of which were without rain.
HOW MUCH TRAINING DID YOU DO BEFORE THE BIG TRIPS? I found that the best form of training is to fill up your pannier bags with bricks, logs, and dumbbells, and head for the nearest hill.
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I learn so much from every big ride. I try to get out as much as possible and try to start training as soon as the dust settles from an adventure.
WERE YOU SPONSORED? No, I worked as much as I could and sold everything I didn’t use. I spoke to a couple of companies about what I was about to do in Europe and got a great response, Emerald carbon fibre guitars, Contour cameras, Silva Water proof gear and Electron lights all donated a few bits of equipment to the cause.
WHAT BIKE DID YOU USE? A 2011 Giant Roam XR1, it was the best and most solid bike I could afford. It has been the most ‘me proof’ bike I have ever had. It has currently done over 12,000 miles and I have only changed the cassette and chain twice. My local bike shop, Evernden Cycles, has been brilliant. They built the rear wheel specifically for me – extra spokes to handle the weight and also provided guidance and advice.
CAMPING OR HOTELS? On the first trip in 2011 we carried tents and camped, but after many freezing cold nights
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and with only a couple of hours sleep, (don’t get me wrong, camping is good), I decided to stay in cheap B&Bs and hostels for the Britain adventure. Some of the hotels/hotels were the same price as camping and it was good when you have been cycling for 12 hours not to have to set up a tent in the rain whilst trying to stop all the recording equipment getting wet.
WHAT WAS THE MOST INSPIRING EPISODE OF THE BRITISH TRIP? So many, but probably cycling to Ben Nevis, setting up my recording equipment in a gondola and freetracking (recording in an inspirational place) whilst going up and down the side of the mountain. The views were awesome. And another day, after a long day cycling in the cold rain, we got to the top of the hill in Ludlow. We found a fantastic bakery and sat on a bench and ate pastys. There were two little old ladies sitting on the bench next to me….One of them turned around and said to me “ We used to be able to cycle up that hill too, you know” I smiled with steaming red face and hot pasty grin, then she said to me “ we don’t complain about getting old you know, getting old is a privilege. There are so many people that do not have the chance”
Everyday I thought about that, so lucky to have the ability to do what I’ve done and so lucky to have the want to do it.
DID YOUR EXPERIENCES FROM THE BRITISH TRIP SOW THE SEED FOR THE EUROPEAN ADVENTURE OR HAD YOU HAD THE TRIP IN MIND FOR SOME TIME? My life is pretty project based, so really had no idea about Europe until a good few months after I got back from the four corners of mainland Britain.
DID YOU HAVE A SUPPORT TEAM BEHIND YOU? My support team were in the panniers! I took everything I needed, and prepared as much as possible against breakdowns and punctures. I fitted ‘Slime tyre liners’ and also had slime in the tubes. Amazingly I did not suffer one puncture or a broken spoke in the whole of the journey! My friend Kim joined me for half of the road trip. It makes such a difference mentally when you are cycling with a companion, but then all of the little ‘mental holidays’ you go on when you are on your own is great for lyric writing. If you ever need anything sorted out - put that thought in a cyclist’s head and send
For every nasty in the road, there’s the new Durano Double Defense. Advanced cut resistant SnakeSkin sidewalls and RaceGuard puncture protection. More than a match for your city’s streets.
FEATURE ❘ INTERVIEW
them off for a few days, every possible angle will be thought about, agonised over and then solved.
HAD YOU A ‘BACKUP PLAN’? I had a spare tyre. Does that count? Cable ties and gaffa tape can fix anything!
DID YOU PLAN THE TRIP IN DETAIL? Nope, it was all made up as I went, the only things I knew were the four cheese destinations (Edam, Gruyeres, Gorgonzola and Camembert). I learnt from the first trip that it is not just the miles you cover in a day; it is also the elevation that makes the difference. At the end of every day I would sit down and work out what was possible. One day it took me six hours to cover fourteen miles. I used a Mio sat nav that was absolutely brilliant as it showed not only the distance, but also the elevation of the route ahead. Great for planning. From the experience and lessons learnt from the British trip, I planned to continue to use cheap hotels and hostels. Not only was this better for my welfare, but also for the security of the bike and equipment. In every hotel I either had the bike in my room or in a ground floor room, stored on a light weight tarpaulin. I must say Booking. com were great. They informed hotels of my circumstances, which lead to a couple instances where managers rang me when
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I was running late to offer help; such as coming out to find me and escorting me in! Fantastic. In over seventy days I only had one issue, when one grumpy manager refused to allow me to book into the hotel at 1am one morning. (It was a long day!) And on top of that it was raining. I managed to spark up my lap top in the shelter of a bus stop, and reserve a room at an alternative hotel through Booking.com. It was 3 or 4 am in the morning by the time I arrived at the new accommodation. (Actually it was a very long day!)
DID YOU COME ACROSS MANY UNHELPFUL PEOPLE? Not at all, in fact the opposite is true. For example on several occasions cars stopped and the occupants informed me of road closures up ahead and lead me on alternative routes. How friendly and helpful is that? They were also patient with my poor command of European languages.
ANY SCARY MOMENTS? Oh yes. Especially climbing and descending to and from Andorra. It was a main road, with a steel barrier to my right, protecting me and vehicles from dropping off the mountain and only limited space for vehicles, mostly buses and large trucks, to pass on my left, which they did in their ‘droves’ every few seconds. Descending was particularly scary as I not only had to contend with the
traffic, there were pot holes and puddles covered with ice! However on another occasion, I managed 51 mph down a mountain road, scary but fun. Another moment was when I strayed off the cycle path due to bad weather and ended up a ditch waist high in water. I was okay apart from being soaking wet and having another eight hours cycling to do, but was concerned about the equipment. Thankfully the Vaude panniers I was using did a marvellous job of keeping everything dry. I can’t recommend them enough. But one of the scariest episodes was when I stayed in a hotel in the Dordogne, France. At first I thought I had landed on my feet as the place looked like an old Chateau and was really cheap. However inside it was like a set from ‘The Shining’. Old dolls were placed on furniture everywhere you looked. I was glad to leave in one piece! You mentioned the security issues with the bike and equipment, how did you overcome these? When my friend was with me it wasn’t a problem, we would take turns to go into shops etc. When I was on my own I had to come up with cunning ways or go without supplies! For example, on one occasion I locked the bike and equipment in a toilet cubicle, climbed out and went shopping! On another I hide the bike in some woods.
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Contact Pam Pilbeam Tel: 02392 262133
Mobile: 07708332778 email pam@cyclingholidays.org
Is there any better way to holiday than on a bicycle? Discover the great outdoors cycling along quiet roads, visiting out of the way places whilst taking in the atmosphere and at the same time being able to enjoy spectacular scenery and views. Each of our holidays opens up an experience where you can relax, explore and enjoy the company of like minded others. Whether it’s your first cycling holiday or you’re looking for your next adventure we are waiting to guide you throughout your chosen holiday.
• • •• ••
Easter in the Vale of Pewsey and the Marlborough Downs Spring Half term week in the beautiful Dordogne Valley Champagne area in July Cruise & Cycle in Holland June, July & August Explore the Loire valley Chateau in September Visit WW1 Battlefields in July and WW2 Landing Beaches in May
www.cyclingwithus.org.uk
FEATURE ❘ INTERVIEW
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FEATURE ❘ INTERVIEW
ON THE EUROPEAN TRIP YOU DIDN’T HAVE ANY LYRICS OR MUSIC WRITTEN, WAS THIS DAUNTING? Nope, exciting. All the creative possibilities, and all the time in the world to think about them too! All the melodies and tracks I either wrote and recorded on the way or recorded notes on a Dictaphone to tell myself what to do in the studio when I got back.
WHO PRODUCES THE ALBUMS? I edit, engineer and produce my tracks and then when I am happy with them I send them to producer Clive Martin (Queen, Reef, Skunk Anansie) for the ‘you don’t need that’ or ‘make more of that’, finishing expert touch. He brings something to the mix that only a respected outside opinion can. His ears are magic!
HOW DO YOU SELL YOUR ALBUMS? They are available from iTunes, all the regular digital distribution outlets, and from my website www.paulcheese.com You can also pre order the second album (released 1st May 2015) and get involved with different exclusives from www. pledgemusic.com
WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR THE NEXT TRIP / FUTURE? I have the second album to release first! (‘Just for the Record Too’) on the 1st May 2015. But…. unlike before, I have several plans in the pipeline for the third album… so exciting. Not sure if they are physically possible though! I left feeling inspired. One ambition of mine is to just leave the house and see where the bike takes me. Paul also offered me the opportunity to join him for a few days on his next trip. An offer I can’t refuse and I look forward to reporting on the experience. Cycling World thanks Paul for his time.
INFORMATION: Paul used; Giant Roam XR1 (front suspension with lock out), Mio Sat Nav 505HC, Contour action camera a Roam and +2, Vaude Panniers, Silva waterproof gear, Electron lights, Emerald carbon fibre guitar Booking.com (www.booking.com ) More information from www.paulcheesemusic.com www.pledgemusic.com
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FEATURE ❘ NSPCC
NSPCC Tour of England series saddle of the professionals
The popular series was launched in 2014 and is expanding to cover four events in 2015.
T
he cyclo-sportive scene has come a long way in the UK over the past years. Long gone are the days of turning up to a converted village hall before collecting your frame number and setting off in hot pursuit of your target time. The rider experience has become key to the offering and the stakes have just been upped in the level of support and service offered to riders on British roads with the NSPCC Tour of England series. The series launched in 2014 with two events on roads made famous by the two biggest cycling events the UK has ever seen in the past decade, the Olympic Games in Surrey in 2012, and the Tour de France in Yorkshire in 2014. The NSPCC Tour of the South East and NSPCC Tour of Yorkshire were, for just their first year, both hugely successful events, attracting over 280 riders in total with cyclists of all abilities coming together into seeded groups to tackle two tough days of riding covering up to 190 miles. Riders have the choice of either raising money for the NSPCC or going for the self-funded option. It is not only the stunning race routes that the events pride themselves on, but also the level of support offered to the riders making
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them feel every bit the professional, bar the ripped leg muscles and engrained cycling tan-lines. “Rider experience is our first priority, making sure that every aspect of the ride is well catered for,” explained Richard King, Director of Ride2Raise, the company behind the series. “From the moment the riders arrive we look to allow them to focus for the challenge ahead, with mechanics and soigneurs to sort both the machines and bodies. Once out on the road soigneurs and ride leaders are on hand, together with motorcycle outriders and team cars, to help everybody
puts you in the get through the day and at the end we want everyone to finish with a smile on their face.” The series does it’s best to challenge the riders though with timed hill climbs and flat time trial sections adding a race element to the rides. And there’s the social side too, with the popular Yellow Jersey Dinner on the Saturday night where riders can wind down together over dinner. In 2015 the series is expanding to four events, with the original South East and Yorkshire events being joined by two-day rides in the Cotswolds and in Mercia. “Anyone with an appetite for a challenge should sign up, as well as those just looking for a nice weekend in the saddle with friends and like-minded cyclists.” Entry prices are very competitive, with fundraising places at just £29. For selffunded riders entry is £139 and both these prices include a free Tour of England jersey for each rider as well as all nutrition and hydration at the many Hub Stops along the routes. A place at the Yellow Jersey Dinner costs just £29 for self-funded riders and is free for fundraisers.
FEATURE ❘ NSPCC
INFORMATION: Full details can be found at www.tourofengland.co.uk
Nightrider is here 6th – 7th June 2015 See the moonlit, historical streets of London as you cycle this 100km challenge Refuge supports up to 3000 women and children experiencing domestic violence on any given day. Raise money and help keep the doors to our life-saving and life-changing services open. fundraising@refuge.org.uk 0207 395 7713 www.refuge.org.uk Registered Charity No: 277424
FEATURE ❘ PLYBIKE
An innovative Wooden Bike
Kieron Lewis tells Cycling World why he decided to make a bike out of wood.
P
lybike was born during a bike build over the summer of 2013. As a casual cyclist I had been looking for a new bike for some time, but could not decide on what type would suit my needs. I ended up buying an old Humber Balmoral shopping bike, and decided to build my own. Making something unique was important, and I wanted to make my own wooden handlebars to complete the look. During a couple of problem days trying to figure out how to attach the brakes without spoiling the look of the handlebars, got me wondering if I could make a bike out of wood and nothing else, no screws or metal just my skills as a furniture maker.
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The design was initially drawn out using a CAD programme, using a standard road bike as a template for the necessary measurements. After many hours working through potential problems and a few sleepless nights I settled on a design I was happy with and one that I thought would work. 18mm ply has been used for the frame because it’s very strong and fairly easy to work with, the Plybike concept was born. The drive system proved to be the biggest stumbling block. Most other wooden bicycles I have seen use series of cogs to drive the wheels. The only problem I could see was the need for a large transfer cog. This would add unnecessary weight to the frame and raise the
seat height, making it difficult to ride. Plybike is currently driven by two veneer belts, similar to a conventional chain. The wheels do have a tyre, but this is just a 2mm layer of rubberised adhesive and this helps a little with traction, but not with comfort. To date the bike is held together with just standard exterior wood glue and 96 6mm wooden dowels. No screws or metal are used in the construction. The wheels are removable and the seat height is adjustable. It has a total weight of 24kgs, not very light but will undergo a severe weight loss programme during the next few months. I will also be changing the drive system
FEATURE â?˜ PLYBIKE
INFORMATION: For more information see: plybike@hotmail.com
from belts as I have worked out a way to eliminate the large transfer cog saving precious weight. Oh and it has no brakes. That makes it just a little more interesting to ride. According the Guinness world records the current speed for an all wooden bike stands at just under 12mph, a record I will attempt to break sometime in the future. This is just a prototype and I may redesign and rebuild when I am happy that everything works as it should. I believe that 20mph is achievable on a single gear (some serious work required in the leg department) and that 30 is also possible if my idea for a wooden gearing works.
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FEATURE ❘ CYCLOSPORTIVE
Cambrils Park International Cyclosportive
The popular sportive has secured Canyon as its Headline Sponsor
F
ollowing the success of last year’s inaugural Cambrils Park Sportive in the Spanish Costa Daurada, this year’s event promises to be even bigger and better. With a new headline sponsor, the 2015 Canyon Cambrils Park International Cyclosportive will take place on Saturday 18th April and offers riders the choice of two challenging routes: The shorter route of 106km with 1800m of ascent whilst the longer route is 184km with 2900m of elevation. Both routes run through the beautiful areas of Baix Camp and Priorat in the province of Tarragona. Tough mountain ascents, thrilling descents combined with quiet, peaceful roads that wind through the picturesque vineyards and wineries of the region plus stunning views of the Serra del Monstant make this one of the most rewarding and enjoyable international sportives on the calendar. Located 100km south of Barcelona, Costa Daurada and Cambrils Park have rapidly gained a reputation as a first class training destination for both international pro cycling teams and keen amateurs alike. Team Giant
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Join A Cycling Experience at the Canyon Cambrils Park International Cyclosportive in Costa Daurada, Spain. Cambrils Park is 100km south of Barcelona and is the winter training base for Team Giant Alpecin (formerly Team Giant Shimano). The sportive will start and finish at the Cambrils Park Resort and consis t of two routes :
Alpecin have chosen Cambrils Park as its winter training base The Long Route: due to its superb, vast network 184km – 2900m elevation of quiet roads through varied The Shorter Route: 106km – 1800m elevation terrain, it’s excellent resort l Both routes run through the beautifu facilities and temperate climate. the areas of Baix Camp and Priorat in l peacefu quiet on na A Cycling Experience, the province of Tarrago roads adjacent to the vineyards and ular spectac with region the specialist tour operator, has put of s winerie del landscapes and views of the Serra together 3 and 7 day packages to Monstant. tional The Canyon Cambrils Park Interna include entry in to the sportive in Cyclosportive is a prestigious event r calenda ion Federat Cycling Catalan the and bike rental if required. The 7 team the by ed which is superbly organis at Cycling Costa Daurada. day package includes 4 supported rides with the best guides in the region whilst the 3 day package offers a 50-60km warm up ride on the Friday to prepare the legs for Accommodation the big event on the Saturday. Cambrils Park Resor t is an exclusive family resort located in the Costa Daura The resort has three major da. Out of the peak summer season the resort turns its attention to themed areas of accommodation, sports tourism and has hosted numerous footba ll and cycling teams as well as being the winter four swimming pools, two training base for Team Giant-Alpecin. restaurants, a fully equipped gym The resort has three major themed areas of accommodation, four swimm ing pools, two and spa area, a supermarket, a restaurants, a fully equip ped gym and spa area, a supermarket, a baker y, laundry, medical servic bakery, laundry and a medical e and a great team of hospi tality professionals all ready to make your stay service and is just a short five unforgettable. Accommodation will be minute ride in to the coastal town in the 4 star superior Mediterranean apartments. Guests can choose from 1, 2 or 3 bedroom of Cambrils with its numerous apartments all with separate living/dining and kitchen areas. restaurants, bars and shops. Accommodation will be in the The Package: Choose from either the full 7 day or 3 day package. 4 star superior Mediterranean 7 day apartments. Guests can choose 3 day Sun 12th April: Check in. Welcome pack and from one, two and three Thurs 16th April: briefing from the Cyclin g Costa Daurada team Check in and welcome Mon 13th April: Route 1 supported bedroom apartments all with Fri 17th April: Warm up and guided ride 70-90 km guided ride 50-60Km Tue 14th April: Route 2 separate living/dining and supported Sat 18th April: and guided ride 100-140km Canyon Cambrils Wed 15th April: Route kitchen areas. 3 supported Park International and guided ride 110-140km Cyclosportive Packages start from as Thurs 16th April: Route 4 supported Sun 19th April: Check and guided ride 80-90 km out and farewell little as £249 per person plus Friday 17th April: Rest day. Sat 18th April: Canyon Cambrils flights and transfers and can Park International Cyclo sportive Sun 19th April: Check be booked by contacting A out and farewell Cycling Experience on 01923 Packages cost from £2 49 per person + transfer 283339 or visiting www. & flights Call and book today 019 23 283339 acyclingexperience.com or email: info @acycling experience.com ww w.acyclingexperience .com Bespoke cycling holidays
Bespoke cycling holidays
restaurants, a fully equipped gym and spa area, a supermarket, a bakery, laundry, medical service
The Great Shakespeare Ride Sunday 16th August 2015 Experience the challenging climbs and rolling terrain of Warwickshire and the Cotswolds • 100 mile Sportive • 100 km Challenge • Friendly 40 – perfect for those new to cycling NEW for 2015: Hill Climb Challenge Team Challenge
and a great team of hospitality professionals all ready to make your stay unforgettable. Accommodation will be in the 4 star superior
Accommodation Mediterranean apartments. Guests can choose cycling holidays with Saddle Skedaddle
from 1, 2 Park or 3 bedroom with resort Cambrils Resort is apartments an exclusiveall family separate and kitchen located inliving/dining the Costa Daurada. Out areas. of the peak summer season the resort turns its attention to sports tourism and has hosted numerous football
well3asday beingpackage. the winter The Package: Choose from either and thecycling full 7teams dayasor training base for Team Giant-Alpecin.
7 day
Discover beautiful places on two wheels with us.
3 day
The resort three themed areas of Call 0333has 123 9559major or visit hfholidays.co.uk/cycling accommodation, four swimming pools, two Sun 12th April: Check in. Welcome pack Thurs 16th restaurants, a fullyand equipped gym andApril: spa area, a Cycling briefing from the Cycling Costa Daurada team Check in and welcome supermarket, a bakery, laundry, medical service Mon 13th April: Route 1 supported Fri 17th April: Warm up and a great team of hospitality professionals all and guided ride 70-90kmUK & WORLDWIDE guided ride 50-60Km ready to make your stay unforgettable. 0191 265 1110 Tue 14th April: Route 2 supported Sat 18th April: skedaddle.co.uk and guided ride 100-140km Cambrils Accommodation will be inCanyon the 4 star superior Park International Wed 15th April: Route 3Mediterranean supported apartments. Guests can choose Cyclosportive and guided ride 110-140km from 1, 2 or 3 bedroom apartments all with Sun 19th April: Check Thurs 16th April: Routeseparate 4 supported living/dining and kitchen areas. out and farewell and guided ride 80-90km
HOLIDAYS
“Brilliant course, really well organised”
“Best and toughest sportive I’ve done”
“Best selection of food at the feed stations!”
Friday 17th April: Rest day.
In aid of The Shakespeare Hospice
The Package:
Sat 18th April: Canyon Cambrils www.thegreatshakespeareride.org.uk Choose from either the full Park International Cyclosportive
7 day or 3 day package.
Sun 19th April: Check out and farewell
7 day 3 day Accommodation 12th April:per Checkperson in. Welcome pack and is anThurs 16th April: Packages cost fromSun £249 +Resort transfer &family flights Cambrils Park exclusive resort Join briefing from the Cycling Costa Daurada teamA Cycling Check in and welcome located in the Costa Daurada. Out of the peak Call and book todayMon01923 13th April: 283339 Route 1 supported Fri 17th April: Warm up summer season the resort turns its attention to Experience atridethe and guided ride 70-90km guided 50-60Km sports tourism and has hosted numerous football or email: info@acyclingexperience.com Tue 14th April: Route 2 supported Sat 18th April: and cycling teams as well as being the winter Canyon Cambrils and guided ride 100-140km Canyon Cambrils www.acyclingexperience.com training base for Team Giant-Alpecin. Park International Wed 15th April: Route 3 supported Cyclosportive International and guided ride 110-140km The resortPark has three major themed areas of Sun 19th April: Check Thurs 16th April: Routeaccommodation, 4 supported four swimming pools, two out and and guided ride 80-90km Cyclosportive infarewell Costa restaurants, a fully equipped gym and spa area, a Friday 17th April: Rest day. supermarket, a bakery, laundry, medical service Sat 18th April: Canyon and Cambrils a great Daurada, team of hospitalitySpain professionals all Park International Cyclosportive ready to make your stay unforgettable. 16th Sun 19th April: Check out and farewellto 19th April 2015
Bespoke cycling holidays
Accommodation will be in the 4 star superior Mediterranean apartments. Guests can choose from 1, 2 or 3 bedroom apartments all with separate living/dining and kitchen areas.
Packages cost from £249 per person + transfer & flights Call and book today 01923 283339 or email: info@acyclingexperience.com The Package: Choose from either the full 7 day or 3 day package. www.acyclingexperience.com
Bespoke cycling holidays
7 day
3 day
Sun 12th April: Check in. Welcome pack and
Thurs 16th April:
FEATURE ❘ VELO CULTURE
In the shadows of Dunluce Castle sits a hidden gem of a bike shop, Velo Culture
J
ust a stone’s throw from the iconic Dunluce Castle on the spectacular North Antrim Coastline, sits a hidden gem of a bike shop. Velo Culture, a family run business, is nestled some 500 metres from the stunning White Rocks beach. The shop exterior currently boasts a bright shade of pink following the recent celebrations for the Giro d’Italia 2014 passing their doors! Inside, you will find a rustic charm and all things cycling and triathlon to make your heart race. Catering for professional and club riders and triathletes through to leisure, occasional and young enthusiasts, owner
Cyclists serving Cyclists... and local Stephen McKenzie and the team have focused on innovation and value of tried and tested products, and an ability to provide advice and encouragement to both experienced and newcomers to the sport. “How we do business is important to us,” Stephen quotes. A keen road and mountain biker himself, Stephen understands what riders are looking for to enhance their performance and enjoyment. “It is exceptionally busy, but equally rewarding,” he says, “we are privileged to be part of a network of retailers who are supporting a cycling ‘boom’ in the UK and Ireland,
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working alongside partners from across the spectrum of public, private and voluntary sectors, to create opportunities for everyone to discover cycling and what it can offer at all levels.” Velo Culture supports local athletes and ambassadors for the sport, who share in encouraging others through their achievements and success. John Madden, Irish TT record holder, Ulster TT champion, and formerly Irish Triathlon Team champion at the World Triathlon Championships, acknowledges “the backing of local business people like Stephen spur me on to continue
in one of the toughest sports.” “I am excited to be associated with Velo Culture because of the philosophy behind what they offer. Stephen really cares about his customers and that makes all the difference.” National level triathletes and cyclists Charles Russell (Irish & Ulster Triathlon Veteran and Founder of couconoutdoor.com), Alison Rankin, Rhodri Jones and Stuart Laverty, representing the Triangle Triathlon Club, Bann Wheelers CC, Ballymoney CC, and the Ulster Youth Development Squad, are also sponsored by Velo Culture and equally contribute tremendously to the sport, achieving year on year titles throughout the country. The business seems to have a real sense of community about it and is involved in organising and supporting endless causes and events. With a philosophy to stock brands and products they would want to use themselves, it would definitely be worth paying them a visit! Velo Culture stores can be found at 2 Greenvale St, Ballymena (028 256 48220) and 220 Ballybogy Road, Portrush, Co. Antrim (028 7082 1100). Like them on Facebook and buy online at www. velo-culture.com.
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FEATURE ❘ BLAKE HOUSE CRAFT CENTRE
An eclectic mix of goods in the Essex countryside There is plenty on offer at this flourishing craft centre.
S
ituated near Braintree in Essex, Blake House Craft Centre is one of the region’s true hidden gems. Once a traditional farmyard, with buildings used as stables, cattle sheds and cart lodges, this wonderful site has been transformed into a vibrant and flourishing craft centre which houses a wide range of small local businesses. A beautiful Essex barn forms the centrepiece of a cluster of sympathetically restored 18th and 19th century listed buildings. This delightful environment hosts
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a variety of individual shops where you can buy unusual and attractive wares. Wander around the fine variety of shops, where you can browse the eclectic mix of goods on sale here, including a specialist guitar shop, retro consoles and games, fabrics and sewing supplies, dancewear, everything needed for jewellery making and beading, antiques, alternative therapies and the exquisite miniatures from Bijou Dolls Houses as well as all kinds of exclusive, locally made crafts and gifts! There really is something for everyone! Once you’ve looked around the shops, you can enjoy a bite to eat or refreshing drink in Timbers Restaurant, housed in a beautifully refurbished, listed corn barn. Once you have
eaten, challenge your friends to a round of crazy golf on our 9 hole course, clubs and balls are available for hire along with your own score card and let the kids use up some energy in our play area. During the summer, make sure you test your wits against the latest annual maize maze adventure at The Original Great Maze! For more information and details of our events throughout the year, visit our website: www.blakehousecraftcentre.co.uk or keep updated on facebook: www.facebook. com/blakehousecraftcentre and www. facebook.com/greatmaze Blake House Craft Centre, Blake End, Near Braintree, Essex, CM77 6RA. (Find us just off the A120) Tel: 01376 344123
2nd Augus t 2015
Call by 31st March!
Ride London for Revitalise!
Enjoy cycling? Cycle the Prudential Ride London-Surrey 100! You’ll be helping give disabled people and carers a true holiday break and doing something you’ll never forget in the process. And to help you reach your targets you’ll receive a huge amount of support from our lovely events team - so call now!
T: 020 7288 6874 E: events@revitalise.org.uk W: www.revitalise.org.uk
Registered charity 295072
Join Men United at the Great Weston Ride Get your mates together and help beat prostate cancer
Men United. Keeping friendships alive. Prostate Cancer UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1005541) and in Scotland (SC039332). Registered company number 2653887.
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Join our team at: prostatecanceruk.org/GWR cycling@prostatecanceruk.org 020 3310 7034
FEATURE ❘ VIRGIN CYCLONE
Kickstart 2015 with the Festival of Dean Downing gives his expert advice on choosing the right sportive. ‘Images courtesy of Virgin Money’
W
ith 2015 celebrations all mopped up and the last Christmas decorations safely bundled away, thoughts shift to New Year’s resolutions and personal challenges for the year ahead. Cycling is more popular than ever before with over 2.1 million people taking to their bikes each week in England alone. In the wake of Yorkshire’s Grand Depart, cycle sportives are starting to give marathons a run for their money. A former professional cyclist turned coach, Virgin Money Cyclone Beaumont Trophy winner Dean Downing gives cycling amateurs and enthusiasts his top tips for choosing the right sportive:
TIMING IS EVERYTHING Look at your calendar and decide when makes most sense to try a new challenge. Aim for a summer event like the Virgin Money Cyclone for the best chance at fair weather and favourable road conditions.
LOCATION, LOCATION Where does the sportive take place? Consider travel arrangements from your home on event day, remembering your bike! If you are aiming at an event further afield, factor in time to visit the local area and recover from your ride. A festival like
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the Virgin Money Cyclone runs over three days so you can count on a weekend of activity celebrating all things twowheeled.
MIND THE PENNIES Go for an event that is affordable to you in all respects. The best sportive will be the one you are happy to attend, so budget for entry cost as well as small extras like a bike service and celebratory toast. You can also ride easy knowing you’ll be supporting local businesses with your custom.
THE LAY OF THE LAND If you are unfamiliar with the area a sportive runs through, get closer to the route through the event’s website. Virgin Money Cyclone cycle routes can be downloaded direct to your GPS device to help target your training. Check for hill climbs as well as the overall distance to feel confident you are signing up to something you can achieve.
GET READY A steady 34 mile ride like the Virgin Money Cyclone Challenge will still warrant a little
preparation. Start now with a 15 mile ride twice a week and build this up to 20 miles by early spring; your road confidence will quickly develop, as will strength and stamina. Riders tackling a bigger distance should aim for a structured training plan including rides over 50 miles to get used to those longer journey.
BETTER TOGETHER Talk to family, friends and colleagues about your sportive challenge. People love a good cause so you may find encouragement and a few extra training buddies by using your summer ride to raise funds for charity. The Virgin Money Cyclone Festival of Cycling returns to Newcastle and Northumberland June 19 – 21. For full event information and to register yourself or a team, visit www.virginmoneycyclone.co.uk
FEATURE ❘ VIRGIN CYCLONE
Virgin Money Cyclone Cycling
SATURDAY – VIRGIN MONEY CYCLONE CHALLENGE RIDES VIRGIN MONEY CYCLONE The Virgin Money Cyclone weekend is the biggest cycling festival in the UK. Running from Friday June 19 to Sunday June 21 2015, the festival features three days of cycling for riders at every level:
FRIDAY – TYNE SIX BRIDGES LEISURE RIDE 2015 will be the third year this relaxed ride takes place. Aimed at less experienced riders and families, it follows Sustrans Routes 72 and 14 along the north and south banks of the River Tyne, taking in the Gateshead Millennium, Tyne, Swing, High Level, Redheugh and Scotswood bridges. Choose between a 10.5 and 15.5 mile route.
There is a choice of three rides of varying distances and difficulty to test all who compete. Challenge rides start and finish at the Newcastle Falcons Rugby Club, Kingston Park, and take in the spectacular backdrop of the Northumbrian countryside. The routes are all on country roads, avoiding the city traffic. Riders set off in groups of 60 at 2 minute intervals. Choose between 34, 64 and 106 mile routes when signing up for the event.
SUNDAY – ELITE RACES WOMEN’S NATIONAL SERIES ROAD RACE – THE CURLEW CUP The first event of the day will be a Women’s National Series Road Race which will attract some of the best riders in the country
including Olympic and World medallists. The race will use the Ingoe Circuit, passing through the villages of Stamfordham and Matfen. Competitors will complete three laps of 13.9 miles each before going on to the 22.3 mile circuit used in the men’s race, crossing the finish line in Stamfordham.
MEN’S RACE – THE BEAUMONT TROPHY Starting at 1.15pm, the Beaumont Trophy starts with a single lap of the 13.9 mile circuit used in the women’s event. Riders then progress to the 22.3 mile circuit used for the 2011 Men’s National Road Race Championships, including the climb of the Ryals. This is ridden four times before a final lap of the first, smaller circuit, making a total distance of 117 miles.
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FEATURE ❘ CHALLENGE RIDES
Great Weston Ride Keeps On Growing Cycling World learns more about this spectacular ride
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he West Country’s premier challenge bike ride, the Great Weston Ride (www.greatwestonride.com), is taking place on Sunday 19th July 2015 and, after last year’s runaway success and with more and more people coming from outside the local area to take part, this spectacular ride is on course to attract a record number of entries for the sixth year in a row. For anyone who hasn’t come across it yet, the Great Weston Ride offers a scenic 56-mile city-to-coast route that starts in Bristol and then takes riders through some stunning countryside and picturesque Somerset villages on its way through the Mendips and across the Somerset Levels to its final destination on the seafront in Weston-super-Mare. The event gets tremendous feedback and plaudits from participants each year and, as if to underline this growing success and popularity, lots of previous riders have already booked their places again for 2015. One such entrant, Bill Stacey-Norris, who will once again be travelling up from Devon to take part, sums it up for many when he describes the Great Weston Ride as “the best ride I’ve ever done”. Over 1,000 people entered in 2014 and the GWR also attracts huge numbers of supporters along the route, particularly at the finish to cheer and welcome riders across the line, and one of its major features is its friendly and
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very relaxed ‘event’ feel - hundreds of riders leave feedback comments each year and they overwhelmingly agree that there is a fantastic atmosphere about the whole day. Naturally, the majority of participants are from the local Bristol and North Somerset area, however a significant number (one in three) actually come from further afield and entries to date for 2015 are no different. One possible explanation is that the Great Weston Ride has often been compared very favourably with (and described as a West Country version of) the famous London to Brighton ride, so it may be on its way to achieving the same iconic status with people travelling to the area from all over the UK to see for themselves what the GWR has to offer by way of a challenge and a great day out. The organisers actually describe the GWR as a ‘challenge ride’ rather than a traditional ‘sportive’ to more accurately reflect its relaxed style - there are no timing chips; it’s a linear (A-to-B) route; all sorts of bikes take part (including tandems and recumbents!); there’s lots of non-lycra clothing on show; and, instead of a goodie bag, participants are treated to what is possibly the best post-ride hot food in the country! Finally the seafront finish area, with its excellent pop-up event bar and food facilities, provides the perfect setting for friends and family to chill out and celebrate the riders’ achievements.
www.cyclingworldmag.com ❘ www.cyclingworldmag.ie
This means that while the GWR has plenty to offer experienced cyclists, not least some spectacular views and scenery, the event also attracts lots of new or inexperienced riders and once again a large number of the 2015 Ride participants will be undertaking their first major long-distance cycling challenge. This has always been a feature of the Great Weston Ride and, as previous participants testify, riders are comprehensively supported and looked-after from start to finish, regardless of their cycling experience or ability. The ride also has a major partnership with Prostate Cancer UK, the leading male-oriented cancer charity in the UK, and to date riders have raised over £105,000 for PCUK (and over £165,000 for charitable causes as a whole) and the aim is to take those figures even higher in 2015. So whatever your motivation, it seems clear that anyone who is looking for a great cycling challenge and a fun day out should seriously consider the 2015 Great Weston Ride – in fact, it should be on every cyclist’s ‘To Do’ list!
INFORMATION: Further information, and details on how to enter, can be found at www.greatwestonride.com
Prudential Ride London–Surrey 100 Sunday 2nd August 2015 Cycle 100 miles for the Brain and Spine Foundation and help us help the 10 million!
There are 350 different conditions of the brain and spine and together they affect more than 10 million people in the UK. The Brain and Spine Foundation exists to provide information and give support throughout a patient’s journey.
For more information or to apply for one of our charity places, please contact Katherine on 020 7793 5913 or email katherine.hannah@brainandspine.org.uk
Prudential Ride London to Surrey 100 Use your cycling power to change a life. Cross the finish line for Guide Dogs and get a hero’s welcome. Join the team today and make a difference to someone like Emily. Already got a place? No worries, you can still join our life-changing team. Call: 0845 600 6787 Visit: www.guidedogs.org.uk/ ridelondon100
Emily and her guide dog Unity Cyclist Helen with guide dog Westliegh Registered charity in England and Wales (209617) and in Scotland (SC038979) 7984 03/15
t o h s a w t a Wh n o d n o L e h at T w o h S Bike
FEATURE â?˜ THE LONDON BIKE SHOW ROUNDUP
Cycling World gives its Lowdown on the show in the Capital
F
ebruary had come around a lot quicker than we had all expected, it was that time of the year when the whole of the cycling industry descends on London, the ExCel to be precise, to immerse in all things two wheeled. The always well organised event was offering the usual things to see and do, the latest bikes, clothing, accessories, components and surreal obscure gadgets and gimmicks. In addition was the opportunity to have a 1-2-1 assessment at the Training Hub, Street Velodrome, Bike Test Track and Cycling Performance Theatre. Great fun was expected all round for the four day event.
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The ExCel is a stunning location for any event, sat on the banks of the Thames with great transport links and plenty of restaurant and bars to occupy the large crowds. As with all these types of occasions, the venue was immediately abuzz with furore and excitement. This demonstrates the cycling phenomenon is definitely still on the up. The typical high end brands as expected dominated the key strategic spots, all sleek and well presented. As I wandered I had to accept that the floorpan was rather
confusing, it didn’t help that you could stroll into another exhibition without even knowing, I find it bizarre that I can cycle anywhere in the world and never really get lost or disorientated but put me in a large open plan building and I act like a toddler, bafflement and frustration are most appropriate descriptions. It was a maze of shiny people with shiny
bikes and shiny smiles. I wrote about the cut clean dominance of big multi-national brands in my roundup on the NEC Cycle Show in October and it was no different in the Capital. However, in my observations back then I was enthused by the amount of independent retailers exhibiting and I was to find that the friendlier more approachable side of the cycling family was definitely out in force again and stubbornly would not budge, hooray! As I continued to explore I was blown away by the tricks that were on display at the Street Velodrome and Cycling Performance Theatre. The artistry and amazing skill of these performers was perplexing, they flew through the air with consummate ease. The crowds concentration was obvious as they were thoroughly entertained by this group of incredible athletes as they demonstrated a stunning mix of aerial action, balance and control. As I continued to wander, I continued to be confused by the layout, it reminded me of tales of the Minotaurs Labyrinth from my childhood. I halted briefly to compose myself and try and reduce my idiotic frustrations (ok, I had to accept I was lost and ponder how that was actually possible). As I sat attempting to dissect the guide map like a depressed tourist I noticed an E-bike innovator who I had previous history with. I will expand in detail in the next issue.
INFORMATION: The London Bike Show ExCel, London Taking place on 11th – 14th February 2016, The London Bike Show kicks off the the start of the cycling year. For more information see: www.londonbikeshow.co.uk Twitter: @londonbikeshow
MADE FOR CITIES Try it for £2.50 A day! bromptonbikehire.com
Avoid parking at the station
Grab the 7:22 to Waterloo
Pop it under your desk then nip to a meeting
Jump in a cab home after a drink with friends
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FEATURE ❘ BMX
Winning touches for Manchester UCI BMX Supercross world cup track US based ‘Master Builder’ has developed a spectacular arena.
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isiting BMX industry heavyweight Tom Ritzenthaler, Elite Trax Inc, has put finishing touches to the competition track at Manchester’s National Cycling Centre ahead of the UCI BMX Supercross World Cup, April 18-19. The US based ’master builder’ has been instrumental in the development of the BMX Supercross format, building some of the world’s fiercest BMX Supercross tracks, including [that contested during] London 2012. He travelled to Manchester with a team of construction specialists to undertake the works in consultation with British Cycling, Global SX Events and the National Cycling Centre. Manchester’s BMX track, which opened at the National Cycling Centre in 2011, attracts some 75,000 visitors every year. The latest modifications saw earthmoving equipment installed at the Sportcity site and included a lengthening of the men’s competition track designed to further challenge elite riders. The new construction promises an exhilarating spectacle for world cup crowds in April, as well as a fresh racing experience for hundreds of amateur riders who access the indoor complex each week for fitness and fun. Commenting on the Manchester track, Tom Ritzenthaler said: “This facility is known around the world as a mecca for an indoor BMX track – it’s leaps and bounds ahead of any other. There’s a section at Chula Vista, California that everyone in the sport looks to, so we’ve replicated that here to give the athletes a better training regime and mindset for world cup competition.” Jonny Clay, British Cycling’s cycle sport and membership director, added: “Tracks around the world are getting bigger and consistently evolving as BMX riders push the boundaries of their sport. The increasing skill level and high speeds that our best athletes reach mean tracks can be more technically challenging than ever before. “The changes to the Manchester BMX track have lengthened the men’s third straight, creating longer and faster jumps. The new lines and tougher distance will allow our Great Britain athletes strong progression and better preparation towards Rio, as well as making for dramatic world cup action come April.” The 2015 UCI BMX Supercross World Cup returns to the home of British Cycling, Manchester, on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 April. For further event information and to book tickets, visit www.ticketmaster.co.uk/ britishcycling.
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DISCOVER A HIDDEN ISLE OF WIGHT WITH A
Leave your push bike at home for a couple of hours and explore parts of the Island far away from the tourist trails with these unique guided Haibike experiences. For more details visit our website or call 01983 407049 to book your day out. *Due to UK Government legislation the minimum legal age for Haibike Safaris is 14
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FEATURE ❘ AUSTRIA
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mongst its recreational counterparts such as skiing or hiking that have long drawn visitors to Austria, cycling holidays are quite steadily gaining in popularity amongst those looking to exert some pedal power amidst glorious scenery, and upon a well-marked trail infrastructure where bikers of all abilities can find their comfort zones. Whether your ‘Tour de Austria’ is a multi-day, self-guided cycling holiday, or a leisurely ride along a river path or a sightseeing pedal through one of Austria’s more urban Centers, you can be assured of a great holiday ride. What makes Austria so unique however is the great variety of landscapes from the rocky mountains to lush green rolling hills, the terrain is as plentiful as the
cycling sport itself. What strongly speaks for Austria is the unique hospitality and joy of life (called après ski in winter), plus accommodation which offers the full service – from repairs to cycle sheds and delicious meals – a cyclist must experience Austria! Below you’ll find our top recommendation for long-distance leisure cycle path through Austria. They are the perfect combination of healthy lifestyle, sightseeing and cultural delights. For more information about Austria as a cycling destination please visit www.austria. info/bike or contact our colleagues at our holiday information line: 00800 400 200 00
FOUR PARTNER DESTINATIONS: KÄRNTEN In Carinthia, bicycles can be brought out and set up already in early springtime. The mild and sunny climate allows for ideal riding
conditions even as the mountains’ sunny ski runs are still in use. Carinthia, Austria’s Alpine Riviera, is home to cycling pro and SKY team captain Bernhard Eisel. It comes as no surprise, that this area offers a number of stunning routs for street cyclist: from the southern part of Großglockner mountain pass, along lake shores and across picturesque valleys.
ZELL AM SEE-KAPRUN Zell am See-Kaprun is the ideal base camp for a wide variety of bike trails: with the “royal stage” of many bike events the Großglockner high alpine pass at the doorstep, as well as 240 km of regional cycling path network crisscrossing the mighty mountains of National Park Hohe Tauern on one side and the smoother rolling green hills of the Maiskogel on the other side of lake Zell. If this wasn’t enough, The Tauern Cycling Path connects the area to
Austria is becoming a popular destination for cyclists With stunning landscapes and a multitude terrains it’s an obvious choice for the explorer types. 70
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FEATURE ❘ AUSTRIA a total of 1,300 km of cycling routes from Kaprun to Passau. This might be why the Ironman association has chosen Zell am See-Kaprun to host the Half Ironman World Championship this summer.
ST. ANTON AM ARLBERG Against a wonderful Alpine backdrop in an unspoilt natural setting, St. Anton am Arlberg is not just the perfect stamping ground for bikers, but also creates a perfect starting point for major street bike tours. A tour over Arlberg to Bregenz and around lake Constance (98.4km; negotiated height 877m) or scaling the Silvretta high Alpine road (148.2km, negotiated height 2,608m ) are opportunities for exploring our neighbouring province of Vorarlberg. On the Tyrolean side, the Hahntennjoch Pass (135.4km; negotiated height 2,427m) and the Pitztal with the Piller-Sattel (114.4km; negotiated height 1,560m) or the challenging ascent to the Kaunertal Glacier (78.6km; negotiated height 2,134m) await you, where
you can let your happiness hormones have free reign after such an achievement at 2,600m above sea level. Join the Alberg Giro, the circular tour combines all these stages to a 148 kilometres and 2,400 metres in altitude difference long day race, taking place on the 2nd August 2015.Get registered now: Entry Fee Single: GBP 47 (EUR 58) for entries until the 19th June or GBP 35 (EUR 43) for all participants staying in St. Anton. The entry fees include finisher-tricot and pasta-party.
LINZ/DONAU REGION Europe is blessed with many unforgettable trails for the biking enthusiast – and the Danube Bike Trail is by far the most famous, the most beautiful and the most spectacular. From the banks of the river immortalised in the waltz written by Johann Strauss II to rolling hills and beyond, travelling on two wheels has never been so stimulating. In fact, “simply magical” are the words many cyclists and hikers use when they go from Passau
along the banks of the river. A popular cycling tour starts in the 3-river city of Passau and goes along Schlögen to Linz. Linz, on the shores of the Danube, is a European Capital of Culture that tempts you with creativity and flair. When darkness descends, it only helps to enhance the bright colours of the luminous facades of Linz’s Lentos Modern Art Museum and Ars Electronica Centre, both structures reflected gloriously in the night time Danube. By day, always lots on the arts programme – the annual ‘Linzer Klangwolke’ (Linz’s Cloud of Sound) is an internationally-known festival during which laser and light effects make their presence known on the water canvas in the Danube Park accompanied by mesmerising sound. The route travels some of Austria’s most historic cities (hidden gems like Enns, the oldest city in Europe), passing castles like Greinburg, leading on into the Wachau region, where more castles like Dürnstein (where it is said that Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned) and wine villages await.
Credits – Main picture – Zell am See-Kaprun Tourism. Top picture – ©TVB St. Anton am Arlberg_Fotographer Wolfgang Ehn. Middle picture – (c) ÖW_Peter Burgstaller. Bottom picture – ©Kärnten Werbung Franz Gerdl April 2015 l Cycling World
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FEATURE ❘ WHEELBASE
M
The UK’s largest cycle shop
ake the UK’s largest cycle store an essential destination on your next visit to the Lake District. Established over 20 years ago and only 10 minutes from the M6 (Jct 36) WHEELBASE has become synonymous with retailing some of the world’s finest bikes on a grand scale, with over 600 on display across a huge 16,000 sq ft showroom in the heart of the English Lake District. The store is divided into five departments; mountain, road, women’s, leisure and kids. Along with leading bike brand such as Trek, Cannondale, Cube, Whyte, Cervelo, Focus, Lapierre they also stock one of the UK’s largest range of Frog kids bikes, plus more boutique brands like Colnago, Intense and Yeti. Plus, the new range of Cube eBikes using the reliable Bosch drive system.
THE UK’S LARGEST CYCLE STORE ONLINE WHEELBASE has continued to grow and invest in their mail order service and their website www.WHEELBASE.co.uk has recently undergone a re-launch. The business is very much focused on being the mail order bike specialist. They have a team of dedicated and experienced cyclists online and on the phone to guide you painlessly through purchasing your bike. You can also take advantage of their finance
Established over 20 years ago, the Lake District store is an essential for all cyclists packages which offer 0% APR over 36 months!
EVERYTHING CYCLING UNDER ONE HUGE ROOF The store has achieved its reputation of being one of the country’s number one cycling stores by remaining in independent ownership, staffed and managed by a team of 25 avid cyclists form all disciplines of the sport. The brand and product range has been carefully shaped over the years and their expert staff are always on hand to offer realworld guidance and advice.
The store is sited in Staveley, which is a small Lakeland village at the bottom of the glorious Kentmere valley. The old wood turning yard where the store is based on now boasts an eclectic range of business, including the Hawkshead Brewery Beer Hall, More Artisan bakery and the Wilf’s Café, famous with many cyclists. There is some of the country’s best road, leisure and mountain biking right from the doorstep so head over, park up, enjoy the riding and then and pop into this cycling mecca and prepare to be amazed.
INFORMATION: The UK’s Largest Cycle Store, Mill Yard, Staveley, Kendal, Cumbria LA8 9LR UK Web: www.WHEELBASE.co.uk Email: info@wheelbase.co.uk Call: 01539 821443 Facebook: WheelbaseUK Twitter: WheelbaseCycles
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FEATURE ❘ ISLAND POWERBIKING
An unseasoned the delights
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’ve never been much of a cyclist, not since childhood anyway. There is nothing I see in the lycra clad peddlers that appeals to either my sense of fashion or my desire to try to relive my boyhood. My adult days have been confined to the safety of a car. A call from a friend and an appeal for help, “I need some photography” “The showroom has just taken delivery of these new bikes and I’ve got some adverts booked for the local paper”. Ever the professional I agree the fee, the time scale and arrange the shoot accordingly. As a photographer and designer I’m aware of the demands on getting the image right and now I am looking at; shock horror! An electric bike, it’s not immediately obvious that it’s electric, my client Tim had spent a lot of time researching and the result
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of that work was in front of me. To my eyes it’s a bit of automotive art. No heavy battery attached to a granny bike, this is a piece of Germanic technology wrapped with some of the best brands that even I, a total novice recognised. “I guess the old electric bike has come a long way”. The shoot was to promote a new tourist initiative on the Isle of Wight. It’s a beautiful place when you can the escape the ever growing cues of traffic and roadworks. There’s a warren of pathways criss-crossing its length and depth and armed with these assisted electric bikes, they are all within reach. Somebody in the build up to the shoot had mentioned that the Island was seen as one of the best cycling destinations in the country. I wasn’t too sure how anybody might arrive at such a conclusion and certainly the conditions of the Island’s roads
do nothing to help me agree to that person’s opinion. But in escaping the roads the scenery is certainly worth the effort of a half hour ferry ride. My co-opted assistants are Gareth and Phil. Two seasoned MTB guides used to dealing with the demands of the expectant cyclist. I’ve no alternative to put myself in their hands. I don’t have the luxury of getting in my 4x4 to get me to the shoot site. I’ve got my camera gear on my back and my bike for the day under my bum. It’s twenty years since I last rode anything with wheels. Tim had managed to bring together a couple of volunteers to join us on our quest. Bejewelled with Gopros we set off on our adventure. From the showroom on the south coast of the Island within 30 seconds we are off the road and dancing in and out of the trees. The
FEATURE ❘ ISLAND POWERBIKING
cyclist explores of an e-bike Cycling World learns through the eyes of a photographer what electric power can offer
sound of car rumbles becoming ever fainter with every second. Although I’m carrying 30 plus kilos of camera gear on my back I’m not feeling any level of strain, in fact I’m carrying a stow-away smile! It’s not what you would call easy but I’m feeling a lifting of my ego and remembering my childhood heros - the Six Million Dollar Man and Popeye. Give me a hill and I’m going to flatten it with one push of my trusty peddle. I’ve had an association with the Island for over forty years and I’m discovering more parts in less than half an hour than I’ve done in the last decade. Compared to many mountain bikes, the Haibikes we are sitting astride are heavy, but when a bike can perform like these machines can, why is the weight important? At no stage did I have to dismount and push. There are two ways to use the bike, Phil has given me very clear instructions about how to use
the Haibike, The engine, housed within the frame between my feet, has four levels of power and an off button controlled by a very neat controller next to my left thumb. There is also a display mounted directly infront of you on the handlebars indicating speed, energy levels and time. Some of the more advanced systems have bluetooth connectivity and GPS mapping. I know that if my son had been with me he’d have felt right at home. Under my right hand there are the more familiar gear change controls along with a suspension lockout. Gareth and Phil had been raving about the Haibike. Used to traditional mountain biking, they had seen an opportunity to introduce more people to their sport, and when they were away doing their beloved ‘downhill’ they were getting more bangs per buck. It was my first off road, downhill bit of
riding, on grass and still carrying all my gear. The bike’s acceleration was scary at first. It was a good two minutes before I could relax and enjoy the thrill. The frame and suspension soaked up the terrain easily leaving me seriously impressed that I hadn’t put myself in hospital. Gareth laughed at my involuntary cries of joy. “It’s often the case, when somebody goes out with us for the first time”. I have to remind myself that this is work and not to get carried away in the moment. After all we are looking for locations to take some photographs. But I can’t help thinking that no skill on my part is going to tell this story. I ask Phil where would people not cycle with a traditional bike. He looks a little confused at first, before the penny drops “The beach”, so off we go. Only six miles lay between us and some of the most amazing and iconic beaches in the UK. And we are
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INFORMATION: www.blackmanpowerbikes.co.uk
going to cycle on them. The winter is not my favourite time of the year for shooting pictures on beaches, But the sun is glorious, the wind is still, so I’m pretty snug. Cutting across farmland we arrive at the south western coastline. Graveyard too many a smuggler’s wrecking prey in centuries long since past. The sun is getting lower and casting long shadows across the sand, we don’t have any time to loose. I find myself a good vantage point and I send the lads away with their instructions. There is something about winter light that excites photographers. The sun is further away and the light is softer. A beach in winter sun is a beautiful place to be and the Island certainly wrapped in beauty today. Shots in the bag, we head off to a local provider of beverage to warm up and chat. Phil gets the Haibike catalogue out. I am amazed at the variation of models available and although some of the range reach the heady heights of £12,000. By comparison the bikes we have been riding start at a very reasonable £1850. Not bad for a toy that offers so much and delivers in a way that leaves the user smiling. Last time I had had this much fun It was in Southampton Water just north of the Island. A friend had dragged me out to spend a day on his Yamaha Waverider, a jetski. Interestingly, the motor, or engine of the bikes were made by the very same Yamaha. So I guess, if a company as large as Yamaha have confidence to spend millions on developing an engine capable of over 70 newton metres of torque, there must be many thousands of you out there who will
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love these machines as much as I did. On the way back, we take it easy, keeping to the roads. We pass a number of keen cyclists on the way. I noticed that they were not so happy to see us as we were them. I gather that there is a a bit of a hang up with cyclists about electric bikes. That’s fine, we all have our hang ups. I just thought to myself that they were missing out on something. So we pulled some peddle pushers over and invited them to have a go. I wanted to see how they would respond. Although the comments were colourful at first, those that did brave it all wore the same smile that had cemented itself to my face earlier that day. Many of them were
on bikes double the cost of the Haibikes we were using. I think technology is an amazing thing. I have learnt that in mainland Europe, the electric bike has been excepted into everyday life and is a common sight. I think that the UK is missing the point of these machines. How many people would use a bike if somebody hadn’t put gears on them? I’m guessing that the numbers would be few. Back at base, we hose off and clean the bikes getting rid of the salt that would have corroded all the important bits. I remove my helmet and gloves and head off for the ferry a very happy chap.
ELECTRIC BIKES FROM ÂŁ899 RIDE THIS WAY
DISCOVER A HIDDEN ISLE OF WIGHT WITH A
Leave your push bike at home for a couple of hours and explore parts of the Island far away from the tourist trails with these unique guided Haibike experiences. For more details visit our website or call 01983 407049 to book your day out. *Due to UK Government legislation the minimum legal age for Haibike Safaris is 14
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FEATURE â?˜ LINCOLNSHIRE
Southview Leisure Park was our base for three days, and as usual early mornings were my bike time. It was my guilt free release to explore the area on my trusty two wheels.
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outhview is situated on the outskirts of Skegness on the reasonably busy A158, Burgh-le-Marsh is only 3 miles to the west and the emblematic resort of Skegness is 2 miles in the other direction. It was 6am, the weather was typical of a British summer, wet and windy. My plan was to cycle into Skegness and then south to Gibraltar Point before retracing the route using the promenade to sidestep Skegness, and continue north as far as possible before reverting to the road up to Anderby Creek. On exiting the holiday park, there was a brief section of cycle track before I joined the A158 towards the resort, and I was pleasantly surprised as I entered the outskirts of the town, the roads were quiet and the place had a refreshing and friendly ambience, I reached the main strip which tracked the beach and immediately it appeared there was everything a holiday maker could ever want or need in a holiday destination. Ok apart from the sun. At this hour, I expected a large quantity of litter, discarded takeaway cartons and remnants of solidified kebab from the night before but the streets were clean and welcoming, either the late night revellers were extremely proud of their town and were happy to clear up after themselves or the street cleaners were rather early risers. I got my bearings and took off in the direction
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FEATURE ❘ LINCOLNSHIRE
Cycling around piers, fish and chips and slot machines of the promenade and south out of the town towards Gibraltar Point. Cycling so close to the sea was invigorating, and the sea breeze woke my senses and energised my whole body, especially my skinny legs. As I reached Lagoon Walk, the off road section of the route vanished, so I had to revert to the roads, which took me through a fairly normal residential area. Once I reached the Seacroft Golf Course the houses disappeared to be replaced by a lovely verdant enclave. Gibraltar Point is located three miles south of the town, along the coastal road; the area is protected as a nature reserve and bird sanctuary. The remote natural beauty was sublime. The footpaths are clearly signposted and I proceeded along a narrow sandy track towards the sea. My progress was halted as the track became pure sand, making it completely impassable on two wheels. To be honest I couldn’t be bothered to walk. I decided my compulsion to see the sand dunes and salt marshes was not worth the unforeseen damage to my bike or more importantly myself, and the impressive views I had already experienced were ample enough. I would like to briefly mention the birdlife (or the lack of it.) I saw several pigeons and plenty of squawking seagull colonies but I could find them anywhere, actually I see them frequently in my home town and I live seventy miles from the sea. Maybe it was my untrained eye but it appeared the local birdlife were still conveniently tucked up in bed, instead of traipsing around sand dunes at some silly hour in the amazingly awful weather, like me! I followed the same route back towards the seafront in Skegness. I pedalled around
the ornate clock tower before locating a convenient access point to the seafront and beach, it was so peaceful, there was the odd walker but otherwise it was just me and my two wheels. The beach looked so clean and inviting; the town actually proudly boasts the prestigious European Blue flag for water cleanliness. In the distance on the horizon I noticed a quantity of wind turbines which supply power to a sizeable amount of properties in the local area. It reminded me of a scene from the War of the Worlds. I continued on with Jeff Wayne’s cult music in my head. After several miles I stumbled upon one of the town’s famous attractions, located in Ingoldmells is the large, imposing Butlins Resort. I was expecting a demure lonely facade, but the complex which opened in 1936 looked more like a prison with its large metal gates and monotonous fences, and I wondered slightly cynically if this was to keep people out or to ensure the residents and their money stayed in. Not surprisingly I had read it was used as a naval training base during the war. I am aware that some people find the gentle sound of a hoover or washing machine soothing and therapeutic but for me this morning the rhythm created by my pedals and the crank propelling me forward, had a similar effect. I happily pedalled on. I rode enthusiastically along the promenade passing a cluster of pastel coloured beach huts before reaching Chapel St Leonards. Chapel St Leonards is five miles north of Skegness; it benefits from miles of sandy beaches and a well established caravan park. There were plenty of people milling about, cyclists, dog walkers and the occasional jogger. I had elected to
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take the road up to Anderby Creek. I left the promenade and rode into the centre of the pleasant village, cycling past a charming hotel, church and a handful of shops. With OS Landranger map in hand, I decided my immediate priority was to locate the best route up to Anderby Creek. My predilection is to thumb a map, the visual stimulus and the satisfying tactile experience cannot be matched, not even by pricey technological alternatives, but that’s only my one-sided map addicted sentiment. Don’t get me wrong, I do own (and would be lost without) my Garmin GPS unit, but there’s definitely
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no substitute to this most basic of paper alternatives. After perusing the map rather lovingly, I established the route and continued on. As I cycled north through Chapel Point, I noticed plenty of opportunities to grab a cuppa or slice of cake; but even more importantly the public toilets. Gradually the landscape changed, a bucolic setting becoming more prevalent. I bypassed Chapel Six Marches and Wolla Bank. The sea was hidden from view but the noise was startling, I cycled up through an empty car park, locked the bike outside the toilet block and clambered up the grassy embankment to check the exact location of the sea. The views were spectacular; the water was reassuringly vocal and thought provoking, and I sat for a while staring over the slightly annoyed waters. After my impromptu stop I continued onwards and after negotiating a couple of sharp bends in the road, I glimpsed the sign for Anderby Creek.
Anderby Creek is a small place but becomes a holiday destination for many in the summer. The main draw appears to be the exquisite unspoilt beach, which conveniently has public access. After cycling through row upon row of caravans, chalets or holiday lets, I finally arrived at the sand. Interestingly since 2009 the village has been the location of the world’s first ‘Official Cloud spotting area’. An old disused beach shelter had been turned into the slightly modern looking, Anderby Creek Cloud Bar. There is a convenient bar for drinking purposes on the lower level and the upper level offers splendid elevated views over the sea. It provided simple seating and a number of cloud spotting menus, explaining what you may see and why. Unfortunately the day was clear and cloud free so my interest did not last very long and to be honest if the sky was overrun with clouds I’d have probably still felt the same but the views of the glorious, empty white beach were
Hideaway Cottage Hideaway is a charming cottage set in a beech copse in the Lincolnshire Wolds. Ample accommodation for 6/8 people. There is a wheelchair lift, a huge garden and a generous drive.
01507 343027
www. hideawaycottagelouth.co.uk
CTC Lincolnshire Events 2015 Lincoln Imp Audax April 11th Geoff Findon Charity Bikeathon
(National Bike Week Event)
June 14th Lincolnshire Wolds Audax September 20th
Further details contact timnewbery @btinternet.com or visit www. lincolnshirectc.co.uk
FEATURE ❘ LINCOLNSHIRE seriously breathtaking. I did chuckle that the avid cloud spotter (if they do really exist) would have the opposite approach to the simple weather forecast, in-comparison to the rest of the sane populace. The gloomier and overcast the better, selfish buggers. After a short break sitting on the sand watching the sunrise and using the total solitude to scrutinize the area unhindered for buried Roman artefacts (it’s true you can find Roman pottery on the shoreline, still today), I pushed off south back towards Skegness. I opted to take the road instead of the promenade as I was just intrigued to see if I had missed any hidden gems. What I found was caravans, and plenty of them, actually a veritable sea of them. I pushed on
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past Fantasy Island Theme Park, just from the roadway the place sets an imposing figure in the distance. It looked like there would be plenty to keep the crowds entertained. As I cycled along the road past Butlins, I was astonished as it looked even more like a prison from this vantage point. It was a short trip to the promenade and the pier, and whilst partaking in a coffee, I was stunned to see a tractor on the beach approaching ominously from the north. It appeared to be mowing the sand, obviously it wasn’t, but it was a slightly surreal sight. Skegness is more than a one trick pony, if you are prepared to see past the glut of arcade centres then you will discover a town oozing an effervescent energy. It’s equally at home with crazy weekenders as well as energetic lovers of two wheels. Coffee consumed I decided to head back along the promenade towards the Skegness Natureland Seal Sanctuary. The kids had pointed it out the previous day and I have to admit I was intrigued. The entrance was only a short ride from my coffee stop, but unfortunately it was closed. I read enthusiastically that the Sanctuary’s three main objectives are to entertain, educate and conserve. However, it’s not all about seals, it’s also home to penguins,
FEATURE ❘ LINCOLNSHIRE tropical butterflies, reptiles and my favourite creepy crawlies. The exterior looked like it could benefit from some TLC but it definitely would be somewhere I could take the gang, and the prices seemed reasonable. Time was ticking on so I pedalled back towards the centre. As I weaved through the swarms of tourists I noticed a wonderful bike shop on the busy High Street, it was immediately recognisable because of the old style bike protruding from the brickwork, curiously above the shop window. I spent a satisfying 20 minutes just wandering around the array of bikes and accessories on display. After my short break I headed out of town and westwards in the direction of the caravan site and Burgh-le-Marsh. I negotiated the outskirts with ease and pedalled vigorously past the entrance to the holiday park. I wondered if the clan were up and creating mayhem. Burgh-le-Marsh is west of Skegness, there is a well maintained designated cycle path which I comfortably followed. On the road into the village I glimpsed a car boot sale in full flow, I automatically thought ‘maps’ but kept my enthusiasm in check, my time was limited and I still wanted to get some miles in before I returned. As I approached the village, I noticed a wonderful windmill dominating the landscape; it was stunning
and gave the place a homely, welcoming atmosphere. I felt instantly relaxed, there were the normal amenities available that you’d expect, pub, post office and toilets. I cycle past the post office before turning south on the South Wold and Skegness cycle route. I was en-route to Wainsfleet All Saints, the road was flat and my progress was brisk. I passed plenty of farms as I cycled onward comfortably, the flat landscape offered glorious panoramic views and enabled me to pedal at a steady
pace and I made the town in good time. I pedalled through the outskirts of the town before turning left by the lovely imposing church and followed the river in a loop around the grounds. I finally settled by the clock tower in the Market Square. I locked the bike and set off to explore, my immediate goal was to locate a well overdue cup of coffee. Wainsfleet All Saints is a bustling market town which portrays a slightly niave sophistication, it was great to aimlessly wander around the engaging
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surroundings. The streets overflowing with visitors, I noticed on the banks of the river a rather imposing chimney covered with what I believed to be ivy which gave it a rather quizzical look. I discovered it belonged to the Bateman’s Brewery which provides ales to predominately Lincolnshire but has also supplied other parts of the World. Tours of the brewery are also available. After I had located a typically basic takeaway cup of coffee, I returned to the bike and left the town via the rather busy A52 in the direction of Skegness. From the centre of town I retraced my way back through the main shopping area onto the A158 and eventually I arrived, slightly weary outside the entrance to the leisure park. My day had only just begun, it was now kid’s time and I couldn’t wait. Skegness had definitely surprised me and opened my eyes to the wonders of this
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part of the Country. I was well aware of its reputation as a slightly tacky but harmless holiday resort and to be honest it doesn’t disappoint. Most holidaymakers are usually drawn to the area by the offerings of the modern, clean, bland and prison like Butlins Resort but the area had so much more to offer. In its defence there are plenty of things to keep all ages entertained, the locals are friendly and overall it provides a pleasant holiday atmosphere, if only you could rely on the weather. The cycling was remarkable, I loved being able to ride so close to the sea and the open spaces and nature trails/paths mixed with the vibrant lifestyle and married perfectly. I will definitely return again as there is so much I didn’t see. Why don’t you consider joining me, I don’t actually mean for you to join me, Come on it was obviously just a rhetorical question but I do highly recommend a visit!
Chestnuts
Bed and Breakfast What we offer is comfortable bed and breakfast for cyclists heading off on the C2C, Hadrian’s Wall, Reivers’ Route or general cycling around the West Cumbrian Coast and Lakes. We have secure cycle storage and car parking for the duration of the ride. Free wi-fi. Evening meals if pre-booked, excellent breakfasts, early if necessary.
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Affordable guided and self-guided cycle tours in Poland and central Europe
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TANDEM TIMES ❘ APRIL 2015
Two to Mann and back PHIL AND HELEN MUIR TRAVEL FROM THEIR HOME TO THE ISLE OF MAN.
This month Phil and Helen reflect back on one of their recent tours, an eight day trip from their home in South Warwickshire to the Isle of Man and back home again via the Pennines. Home to home tours are a delightful way of extending your tandem touring holiday as you eliminate any travel time by other modes. Phil had planned this trip in his mind for some time using the port of Liverpool outbound and Heysham for the return. Previous similar home to home tours on our Santana tandems had taken us to Cornwall
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plus numerous excursions into Wales but this northern tour was something quite different as it would cover some 500 miles in eight days, the furthest we had ever been unsupported in such a short period of time, not forgetting the Pennine lumps of course where we recorded our slowest average speed for a day at 8.8mph as we crawled over countless hills and descended slowly in damp conditions. And so we set off early one Saturday morning in glorious late summer sunshine through the Warwickshire lanes, pass
Meriden and the cyclists’ memorial thence skirting round the West Midlands conurbation and into Lichfield and on along the Trent Valley. Passing the pretty Colwich village, pausing for a brew at bizarrely Stafford Crematorium Cafe and then out onto the Cheshire plain we arrived at our first overnight near Nantwich with lights on after 100+ miles. The day was so long that our ride produced greetings from other cyclists of ‘good morning’ and ‘good evening’! The much shorter Day Two enabled time to amble through Chester before a brief
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stop at the iconic cyclists’ Eureka cafe, our pannier clad tandem looking rather odd amongst the lightweight Sunday regulars. Time was spent meandering on the surprisingly rural Wirral Peninsula before visiting the interesting ‘Lever Brothers’ Port Sunlight complete with its 900 Grade II listed buildings. It was then a short hop to the ferry across the Mersey which docks adjacent to the Isle of Man Steam Packet terminal so an easy connection before the evening ferry to Douglas. With the tandem tucked up on the car
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deck a smooth crossing delivered us to Douglas at about 10pm for a six mile ride in the quiet darkness following the tram tracks to Baldrine. The B&B was a picture of warmth and hospitality even at this late hour with welcome hot water bottles in the bed! Two days were spent exploring Mann from head to toe and top to bottom. The B&B hostess explained she knew that Mark Cavendish was ‘home’ and it was even more of a surprise when we actually passed him in the opposite direction near St John’s! There are some serious hills on Mann all with great views including the climb over The Round Table which just made us feel more at home when we got to the Pennines. Not long after leaving the morning ferry at Heysham we were on the long steep climb out of Lancaster before the steady run through the Trough of Bowland. The
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Lancashire/Yorkshire boundary brought kinder topography and Puddleducks at Dunsop Bridge for afternoon tea and a cosy bed for the evening in Hellifield. We did look shattered and the B&B here insisted we borrow their car for the short trip to the pub, it didn’t take us long to say yes!! The two following days were the toughest ever following a trail down through the Pennines and passing through Yorkshire’s ‘H’ towns of ‘Aaworth’, ‘Aalifax’, ‘Uuddersfield’ and ‘Oolmfirth’ with Derbyshire bringing relief as we passed through Glossop and Buxton but the hills still not relenting. Thurstonland was our overnight base in West Yorkshire, the comfy B&B being close to the pub but at the top of a very steep ascent with a distant view of Holme Moss (Oolme Moss?), hills and hills in all directions! The Moss was freezing cold and wet but
once the heights of Buxton were behind us The Dove valley brought relief in the terrain and weather but a long day gave an arrival in the dark to a hamlet in the Staffordshire Dales near Cheadle. A bright crisp Saturday morning found us meandering in the Staffordshire lanes continuously descending down into the Dove and Trent valleys and a more tame landscape that offered more generous speed and a welcome break at Sudbury Hall. And gradually we retraced our route back and although it was a relief to get home the satisfaction of achieving so much in a short trip was immense with such differing terrain, places of interest and settlements to pass through. Fortunately the last long day home was in daylight but alas lights were on for the trip to the chippy!
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TANDEM TIMES ❘ APRIL 2015
Turning stones DOM IRVINE TELLS US ALL ABOUT THE FLIP SIDE ON ULTRA-ENDURANCE My journey into ultra endurance started out to see whether as a rather ordinary cyclist I could do some extraordinary things. As our third attempt on the end to end tandem record looms, whatever the outcome, it will close the chapter on a 5 year project. Through the gloss and the spin about the rides ridden and the training tales there are some hard uncomfortable truths about what it has taken to get this far. I’ve written much about the joys of long distance riding. But here’s the flip side.
SOMETHING’S ALWAYS BROKEN
UNREASONABLE BEHAVIOUR
MORE THAN THE BIKE
To get yourself into a position where a regular weekend set of training rides exceeds 300 miles requires an unreasonable approach to life. Almost everything becomes secondary to the training plan. For example, I’ll ride for 3 or 4 hours before watching my daughter play hockey and then head out and do a few more hours. The next day I will probably miss one of her games as I do a much longer all-day ride. If we are going to see friends for the weekend, I’ll ride and my wife will drive. Holidays are planned in places where it’s possible to train before we head off sightseeing. My colleagues have got used to me demanding meetings are held in places within riding distance that have changing facilities. And you’d think being married to someone who is very fit and healthy would have its obvious benefits. But in reality by 10pm I’m dead to the world. There’s no cup of tea in bed and the chance for a gossip because some hours before I will have left the house to nail another training ride.
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I’ve just looked at my training log. In the last 4 weeks the average hours per week is just under 23. That’s 23 hours of moving time, it excludes anytime the bike is stationary (e.g. at junctions etc) and excludes getting ready to train and washing and changing afterwards. With that training load, kit wears out. There is always something broken, breaking or very worn requiring swapping or replacing. It is time consuming and expensive. If only it were just the training. Ultra distance often involves support crews. These have to be recruited and all the logistics relating to their needs also needs to be sorted. This will include accommodation, food, transport etc. Then there’s the PR work - people have invested a lot of time, effort and money into me and they deserve good copy and support in return.
BEGRUDGING A GOOD TIME
Saturday night with friends? No thank you. Firstly I’ve got an early start in the morning and whilst I don’t need much sleep I do need some. I’ll have a glass of wine occasionally, maybe once every couple of months hardly party time behaviour. And the last thing I want to be confronted with is a plate of delicious food - I have enough trouble maintaining my body fat percentage in single digits without the temptation of some culinary delight.
IT’S HARD
Some days the sessions my coach sets me are so hard I will sit staring at the bike for 10 minutes before I can bring myself to start. For the rest of the day I will be thinking about the next session - psyching myself to do it. Other times, riding for hours is delightful unless it’s pouring with rain and blowing a gale - the relentless soaking from passing vehicles begins to pall after a few hours. And then sometimes I’m so shattered I will fall asleep at random moments.
BILLY ‘NO-MATES’
Gone are the days of the nice social ride. Every minute of every ride has a plan set out by the coach. That pleasant Sunday morning spin with a coffee stop simply doesn’t fit in. Long steady rides are about a relentlessly consistent effort - no attacking the hills or mixing it up with the group. Intervals are simply antisocial. Bizarrely, no-one wants to ride with you because ‘you’ll be too fast’. This simply isn’t true but perception is reality. Even when they do join me for a ride, they are so determined to do their share, they kill themselves setting a ridiculous pace and then they blow up and struggle round the rest of the ride hating every minute of it. This is despite all my protestations to relax and take it easy.
IT’S AN OBSESSION
I knew I’d lost the plot when I was sat in a meeting at work with clients and not paying
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Ultimately, the thing being an ultra distance requires you to be is selfish. It relies on a tremendous level of support from my wife, family, friends and sponsors. It requires them to be tolerant, supportive and forgiving. It means having to deal with someone who is almost always tired. Whilst this, seemingly, is what it takes to train for a record attempt, it
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Around all of this there is the day job. In my case running a management development business and all the activities this entails to ensure a thriving business. To fit both work and training in I no longer watch any TV. I’m either working, training or doing something with the family. If I have a rest day planned, I still get up at 5am and work instead to create the space for training on other days. My work means I travel the world. Jet lag makes it very difficult to train. It’s also time consuming working out where to train when travelling.
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nonetheless leaves a deep guilty feeling in the pit of one’s stomach. At some point, balance will have to be restored. I remain deeply humbled by the support I have received.
WHY?
Given all this – why bother? It has been one of the most rewarding things in which I have been involved. It’s been an amazing journey. I’ve learnt so much about myself. I’ve had to come to terms with limitations mentally and physically and also been surprised at where my strengths lie. There is an indescribable pleasure that comes from a significant change in performance as a result of years of sustained effort. And as one progresses, there are whole new areas of knowledge to acquire. When added to the joy of cycling long distances sometimes seemingly with no-effort the combination is addictive. Whatever happens during our next attempt, as Euripides instructed, I have left no stone unturned in my quest as an ordinary bloke to do something extraordinary. Whether we break the record or not - the experience of the last few years will stay with me forever. So if you too fancy stepping up to ultra distance, then go for it. But do so with your eyes wide open at the sacrifices required and the impact on others.
The Tandem Club Rides & Events APRIL 2ND – 6TH 2015 Tandem Club Easter Rally & AGM Rutland APRIL 12TH 2015 East Solent & IOW Emsworth At 10:30, 30 miles Average APRIL 12TH 2015 Wessex Wareham Quay At 09:30, 62 miles Hard
APRIL 17TH 2015 East Solent & IOW Basingstoke Annual 3 day event Average APRIL 18TH 2015 Derbyshire Leaders House At 10:00, 45 miles Average APRIL 19TH 2015 North East West Street, Belford At 10:00, 34 miles Average
APRIL 12TH 2015 Essex & East London Dedham Car Park At 09:30
APRIL 26TH 2015 Three Counties TBC
APRIL 12TH 2015 LA Café de Lune, NR Glasson Dock At 0930, 45 miles Average
APRIL 26TH 2015 Leicester Charnwood Leader’s Home, Thurcaston At 09:30, 35 miles Average
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MAY 2ND – 4TH 2015 Surrey & Sussex Camping Weekend Sixpenny Handley At 09:30, 35 miles Average MAY 3RD 2015 Wessex Yarmouth, IOW At 09:00, 62 miles Hard MAY 10TH 2015 Wessex New Street, Lymington At 10:00, 62 miles Average MAY 10TH 2015 Essex & East London TBC MAY 10TH 2015 LA Gateback Crossroads At 09:30, 40 miles Hard
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attention. Instead I was figuring out when I was going to fit in all the sessions my coach wanted me to do. My bluff was called when someone thought I had been taking notes and asked if I would be good enough to send everyone a copy. Sometimes work has become a distraction in the way of training.
MAY 10TH 2015 North East Durham At 09:30, 40 miles Average
Rides are organised by The Tandem Club UK. It is simple and inexpensive to become a member. Join in and have a wide range of member benefits. Find out more about these (and more) rides, events and membership at www. tandem-club.org.uk. It may be necessary to book your spot on a ride, so please contact the organiser before attending the event.
MAY 17TH 2015 East Solent & IOW Fishbourne At 10:30, 40 miles Average. MAY 17TH 2015 Derbyshire Leader’s House At 10:00, 45 miles Hard MAY 17TH 2015 Leicester Charnwood Leader’s House, Loughborough At 09:30, 35 miles Average
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FEATURE ❘ CYCLEHACK
CycleHack runs again in Glasgow The 48-hour event goes global with 37 cities in June 2015
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fter a successful first year and international exposure, Glasgow will serve as headquarters again to CycleHack, a 48-hour event aiming to make cities cycle friendly through reducing the barriers to cycling and prototyping new ideas to improve the experience on the roads. Nearly 40 other cities around the world have signed up to host CycleHack events in their communities over the weekend of 1921 June, 2015. In its second year, CycleHack will again bring cyclists, developers, designers, makers and others interested in active transport together over a weekend to highlight and build ideas that reduce the barriers to cycling and make our cities more cycle friendly. The event will take place over the weekend of 19-21 June, 2015 in Glasgow and in 37 international cities including Amsterdam, Vancouver, Gijon, and Bengaluru. Over 48 hours, participants will work
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together to brainstorm challenges to active transport, develop ideas, and actively build prototypes to test their solutions. All ideas will be showcased at the end of the weekend and then uploaded to the Global Cyclehack Catalogue: an open source website where all ideas created can be shared and used in cities all over the world. CycleHack has grown from last year’s success which hosted nearly 150 participants in Glasgow, Beirut, and Melbourne and generated 31 hacks available through the CycleHack Catalogue. One hack - Penny in Yo’ Pants - went viral with its easy solution to making a skirt bikeable using a penny and rubber band. With over 3.3 million views of its short film, it was featured in Cosmopolitan, Buzzfeed, Slate, Huffington Post, and translated into countless international publications. While each global city is run independently from the headquarters event in Glasgow, they receive a great deal of support and encouragement from the CycleHack team. Registration to run a CycleHack event is still open. ‘Over the weekend, it felt like I was witnessing a new form of activism, one that is not merely confrontational and critical,
but at its heart collaborative and inclusive. CycleHack showed how design can shape how people experience where they live, how it can create new communities that can collaborate and hot it can empower them to make their city a better place...It will be a part of this city, and of others, for a long time to come.’ - Mark Irwin, Open Glasgow & Glasgow Future Cities and CycleHack 2014 Sponsor Started in 2014 in Glasgow, CycleHack is a global movement which aims to make the world more sustainable through reducing the barriers to cycling. Through annual global events plus our design tank, challenge briefs, and CycleHack Education initiative, we tool up the public with the skills, mindset and opportunities to identify cycling barriers and design solutions collaboratively with local networks and the rest of the world.
INFORMATION: Website: www.cyclehack.com Global CycleHack Catalogue: www.cyclehack.com/catalogue CycleHack 2014 Documentary & Newspaper: www.cyclehack.com/cyclehack-2014
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REVIEWS ❘ By Richard Peploe The Science of Fitness by Greg LeMond and Mark Hom Publisher: Academic Press • Jan 15 • Paperback • Pages: 177 • ISBN: 9780128010235 • Price: £18.99 “Here is yet another book about exercise” starts the forward to the book. “Combine that with a discussion about biology, and you might just be ready to set this book down!” Yes, I admit that I was tempted, but there is a reason that books about exercise and fitness are so popular: most of us are keen to learn how to improve our body in some way and always want to know more. Let us take a look at the players involved in this book. First up we have the United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation, who endorse the book and provide an introduction. What are these mitochondria? “The main function of mitochondria is to turn the food we eat into useable energy in the presence of oxygen”. Clearly they are an important link in the chain of keeping us alive, and not surprisingly the Foundation will say that they are the most important link. I don’t feel qualified to comment, but rest assured that you get a lot of good sound information on managing fitness, with reference to mitochondria only where relevant. The next player is Greg LeMond, and he is here because his previously successful professional cycle racing career was brought to an end because he was suffering from a disease called mitochondrial myopathy. This was the result of lead poisoning, which in turn was the result of being accidentally shot by his brother-in-law during a hunting trip. There is no doubt that LeMond’s story raised public awareness of mitochondria, and is still doing so. The final player is Mark Hom, who is the boffin behind the science. He assures us that “learning the science of fitness is the key to realising our human potential”, and I would say that he does a remarkably good job of helping us to achieve that. Take the first part of the title, the Science. There is a lot of it. I did struggle with some of the science, but the authors recognise that “you may have had to skim over some of the more technical and scientific chapters ... that is perfectly alright and those chapters will be waiting for you”. The second part of the title is Fitness. We don’t necessarily want to be fitter just so that (in the case of cyclists) we can go faster: it might equally well be to go further, or in more comfort. Hom felt that “other fitness books always stopped short ... they never explained why their advice might work”. I would say that as long as you want to improve some aspect of your fitness, there will be something in this book that will be relevant. The book encourages several things to help our fitness, all of which we have probably heard before. Firstly, take regular vigorous exercise; fortunately for us, cycling is deemed to be a good choice. Next, eat
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a balanced and varied diet; no argument there. Then try to avoid “exposure to heavy metals, pesticides, and other environmental toxins”, which seems sensible. In addition, try to avoid self-destructive behaviour such as nicotine, alcohol, and over-eating – which we all know makes sense but often choose to ignore. Finally, do some strength training so that you have some resistance activity in your life. In the course of explaining the reasons for encouraging this healthy living, the book gives practical advice on topics as varied as weight control, brain atrophy, peaking for an event, and age-specific training. I particularly enjoyed the chapter that discussed what aspects of physical performance can be measured, and why it is not just relevant for competitors. What the book does not do is give you a training plan, so look elsewhere for that;
however, the book will help to explain why you should be doing whatever such a training regime demands, which will help you to understand what is going on with your body during any physical activity. The book covers a lot more than we have mentioned here, and given that there are ‘only’ 177 pages of text there simply is not enough space in the book to get into the level of detail that would bore a normal person – which is good. If you do want to know more there are extensive references supporting each chapter. Just as I was finishing the book I read the bad news: they are already working on a second book that “will delve into the science and research in much greater detail”. I am sure that it will be comprehensive, but I am equally sure that it will be too scientific for me – but then that is what I thought of this first book before I started it.
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Don’t miss out on a chance to be part of #TeamHft in Ride London 2015! 2 August – 100 Miles Entry Fee: £25 use code RL20 for 20% off. As a team member we will make sure you are looked after from the day you join the team to the time you cross the finish line! By cycling as part of #TeamHft you will be helping to support people with learning disabilities live the life they choose. Every day Hft helps to make this happen through the support of people just like you. ‘Worth Every Minute of the many hours of training! Great support, great crowds, great fun, great satisfaction and all for a great cause’ – Quentin, Ride London 2014
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