BikeBiz October 2010 _ issue 57

Issue 57 | October 2010

EDITORIAL

Issue 57 | October 2010

NEWS 4-9 CHAIN REACTION 15

Moore Large teams up with David Beckham (kind of) and Cybertill has IBDs in its sights

INDUSTRY OPINIONS 32

EVENTS 82

CYCLE SHOW 2010 GUIDE

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For all our moaning about the journey, we keep coming back to Eurobike. It’s damn near essential.

A look at some of the sights to expect at the Earls Court bike bonanza

FOCUS ON…

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JIM WALKER INTERVIEW The firm talks Sunn, Hudz, Clarks and heading to the Cycle Show in this month’s interview

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EUROBIKE ROUND-UP BikeBiz reports on some of the brand-spanking-new 2011 bikes and accessories on display in Germany

PROFILE: JULIET ELLIOT Executive editor Carlton Reid speaks to Juliet Elliot, Italian Vogue cover star and Charge PR guru

LONDON’S SUMMER OF CYCLING

61 CLOTHING AND ACCESSORIES

27

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REGULARS BRAND SPOTLIGHT

19 LETTERS

Slime talks about ecologically-sound product, tubes and exporting to 79 countries

PEOPLE

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80

One reader writes on raising the profile of training for bike workshop mechanics SPONSORED BY

New faces in at Mont Blanc and Madison, plus Wiggle bags former Asda boss Andy Bond

NEW PRODUCTS

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The latest from Ritchey and Serfas, plus fresh product from RRP and Surf Sales

SPOKESMAN

IT SEEMS A safe bet that everyone who has ever attended Eurobike has at least one story about having a convoluted journey to the huge bike show.

Yes, that does mean I’m about to share one of ours... This year the BikeBiz team missed the interconnecting flight from Frankfurt to Friedrichshafen, turning a morning journey into an enthusiasm-dampening day-long epic. While catching three separate trains gave us a better opportunity to see the picturesque German countryside than a short plane trip would have, we couldn’t help but feel we’d have preferred not to have had our first flight delayed so that we could have spent the afternoon relaxing at the hotel, maybe munching on some Bratwurst.

Or even preparing for the show.

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This month Spokesman takes on the electric bike range showcased at Friedrichshafen

But that’s kind of the point about Eurobike. For all of our whinging and moaning about the long-winded nature of the trip there, me included, the trade keeps returning to the show. And why? Because it’s damn near essential.

It’s a measure of the draw of Eurobike that, despite the lack of hotels, the bum-numbing traffic jams and frankly inconsiderate geography (who’d put a lake there?) the cycle trade keeps coming back every year – something that the growing attendance figures bear out.

Conversely, the increasing popularity of the event does have a sickly side-effect – is there any way that anyone can truly cover the entire show? While walking around the 12 huge halls, you have the distinct impression that you are only scratching its surface.

So, shows are damned if they’re popular, damned if they’re not? It’s the show conundrum: Too big to feasibly get around? Location not quite right? It’s too busy a time for retailers to attend? Too many other shows at the same time? It’s proof that you can’t please everyone all of the time, and leads me to think that being a show organiser is probably a thankless task. But, as I stumble towards some kind of conclusion, the show conundrum is probably a nice one to have. If it’s tough to make your way to the biggest bike show possibly ever, then, erm, tough. If seven bike firms want you to attend their show in the same week, then it could be worse. The time to start worrying is when no one is knocking at your door. It’s surely only a vibrant industry that makes demands on your time like the cycle trade does.

Speaking of which, see you at the BikeBiz Awards on October 6th. Good luck to all the finalists!

Jonathon Harker, Editor

NEWS

UK market tempts European cycle brands Eurobike throws up new partnership opportunities Exhibitors seeking UK distribution tell BikeBiz that they want to hear from UK distribution businesses

By Mark Sutton THE LURE of the UK cycle industry has seen a number of overseas companies pitch their wares at the market via the Friedrichshafen Eurobike show.

Some of the key companies looking to gain UK representation at the event included goliath brand Winora and its subsidiary HaiBike, Troyan Gloves and previously represented Leaf Cycles.

WINORA AND HAIBIKE The Accell-owned brand has a wide product range serving a broad number of sectors, and already has a huge presence in the Netherlands, Switzerland and Austria. Winora revealed to BikeBiz that it has a parts and accessories distribution deal (for its 2004-established XLC brand) in the works for the UK for the start of 2011, but nothing in place for the bike side of its business yet, something it is looking to change soon.

The firm’s bikes bagged a number of Eurobike Design Awards at the show under both the Winora and Haibike names.

Haibike’s Heet RX and Big Curve

RC mountain bikes grabbed prizes, alongside Winora’s F2 and FC Family Line.

TROYAN GLOVES Based in Germany and with origins in the snow sports market, Troyan Gloves has a lot to offer a distributor seeking one of the most comprehensive glove catalogues available.

Packaged in slimline, slatwall compatible packaging, the product should appeal to all retailers looking for either a small or large stock holding of gloves.

There were more designs than BikeBiz could count on the Eurobike stand and these would be available to a UK wholesaler, along with the firm’s soft goods line, including hoods and t-shirts.

Some big-name athletes are already sponsored by the brand in the BMX, MTB and Motocross sectors and BikeBiz was told the brand is currently looking to add

The lure of the UK cycle market has seen a number of overseas companies pitch their wares at the market via the Friedrichshafen Eurobike show. a big-name UK rider to its team.

We won’t say who, but let’s just say he’s not shy of your modern day mini ramp trickery, or 540 footjam whiplashes, for one mind-blowing example.

A distributor with ties to one or more of Troyan’s targeted markets is sought (BMX, MTB, snow and motocross) and enquiries can be made via info@troyangloves.com.

LEAF CYCLES Having previously had UK representation, the Leaf Cycles brand may be known to some in the trade – particularly those with a keen eye on the jump and

fixie markets. Offering both a nine bike range and an aftermarket component line to interested distributors, the brand’s owner stresses that it requires the chosen partner to sell only domestically and to strictly enforce that the brand not be devalued online.

With claims of ‘never having received a product back on warranty’, Leaf is confident its product will find a home in the UK soon enough and is asking interested parties to make contact via the website at leafcycles.eu.

Turn to pages 32 and 37 for BikeBiz’s Eurobike coverage

Dahon launches Biologic to the industry DAHON HAS ramped up its Biologic line of accessories, launching the brand as a standalone range suitable for all bikes.

The Biologic range now includes grips, brake levers, pumps and a bottle cage, as well as the Bike Mount for iPhone and ReeCharge. The firm revealed to BikeBiz that the two iPhonecentric products had played a key role in growing the Biologic name, with 4,000 units of the Bike Mounts selling out virtually as soon as they came into stock.

UK agent for Dahon Mark Bickerton told BikeBiz: “For the

4 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER

first time it has its own standalone accessory range. It complements Dahon, but is not exclusively for Dahon bikes.“ The range also includes waterproof Cycle Tune Speakers, the Vacuum flask – which fits standard bottle cages – plus the FreeDrive bicycle chain protector and even a Pollution Mask, first developed for Taipei but pitched as being ideal for city cycling.

Matthew David, Dahon director of sales and marketing, added: “We’ve used the name Biologic for a couple of years on our custom saddles and grips.

“So when we decided to seriously pursue these new products it was a natural fit – combining a human side with clever features that flow from the needs of city cyclists.”

“Biologic complements Dahon, but it is not exclusively for Dahon Bikes.”

Mark Bickerton

BIKEBIZ.COM

NEWS

E-bikes create buzz at shows Cycle Show set to pick up where Eurobike left off with electric bike debuts, e-bike brand launches and more at Earls Court

By Jonathon Harker

Winora and its Haibike offshoot are among the brands looking to step into the UK bike retail market in a big way

Luck be your lady IT WON’T just be the winners of the 2010 BikeBiz Awards that go home with a prize on Wednesday October 6th at Sway Bar, Great Queen Street, London.

After the formal awards ceremony takes place, attendees will be able to take to the casino tables, with

an iPod and champagne on offer to the top performers.

Attendees will also have chance to network with the bike trade, a well as help themselves to (three) free drinks and the free buffet. Space is limited, so book your tickets now by contacting Carly.Bailey@intentmedia.co.uk

EUROBIKE DELIVERED on its promise to include more e-bikes than ever at this year’s event, and the UK’s Earls Court Cycle Show looks set to continue that electric focus in October.

Eurobike dedicated a zeppelin hanger and test tracks to the electric bike phenomenon, but the presence of the sector was felt throughout the 12 halls of the show, with heavy hitting bike brands including e-bikes in their cycle stands and portfolios.

Cube launched its first ever ebike – the Electronic Performance Optimiser – while the likes of Giant, Cannondale, Scott, Winora and many others all had electric bikes and related products on their stands.

BionX launched a new control console, a new lightweight HTMotor and advanced extra long range downtube battery system.

Powabyke also used the show to unveil an enhanced, sleeker version of its Xbike. Now with a number of new features, the Mk II has a new battery case and an easy-to-disconnect control box to aid servicing. MD Nick Child revealed to BikeBiz that dealer feedback had been key to the development of the new model.

BEBA member Wisper launched its e-bike conversion kit – dubbed Daahub – at Eurobike.

It is pitched as an easy-to-fit kit that can convert almost any type of bike into an ebike – including road, mountain or racing bikes.

Wisper will be launching the Daahub to the UK trade at Cycle Show in October, where it will be joined by Powacycle, FreeGo and fellow BEBA member Ultra Motor, among others. Ultra Motor will debut its A2B

Hybrid 24 at Earls Court, reportedly the first electric bicycle in the UK to adopt CAN technology, meaning that it can be plugged into a computer to access web-based software for fault diagnosis, warranty confirmation and change ride options for the rider. The Hybrid

Ultra Motor’s Edge will debut at Cycle Show

24 has a 50 mile range and a recharge time of three to four hours, priced at £1,999.

The firm will also be launching a new brand – Fast4ward. Three new models – Edge, Peak and Ride – will form the stylish range.

Coming with a Panasonic Li-ion battery and two year warranty on electronics and battery, the range has an LED control panel mounted to the handlebars and range in price from £999 to £1,249.

Cycle Show 2010 takes place from Thursday October 7th to Sunday 10th at Earls Court. Thursday October 7th is the trade-only day.

For more on Cycle Show turn to page 53.

NEWS

CYCLE SHORTS BikeRadar COO, Simon Wear, steps down Having served 18 years with the publisher, Future publishing’s chief operating officer, Simon Wear has decided to step down.

Wear was formerly international director.

Interbike moves to Anaheim On the back of the decision to move Interbike to early August going forwards, the show director, Lance Camisasca has also confirmed the show has signed a deal to move to the Anaheim Showground, California from 2011.

Scottish Bike Show moves to April date To avoid a potential clash with the Highland Perthshire Cycling Festival, the Scottish Bike Show will now take place from Saturday April 16th to 17th at the SECC.

Principia opens Pershore test ride centre

Decade Europe has the Urge New distributor bolsters clothing and kit line-up with helmet brand

By Mark Sutton ADDING TO Decade Europe’s debut portfolio, Urge Helmets revealed to BikeBiz that the two firms have joined forces to offer the protection brand’s goods to the UK market.

Joining Royal Racing, EVS Protection and Brake Authority within the newly-launched distributor’s roster, Urge hails from France and offers a

One such advance the firm has made comes in the form of its ‘linen-fibre’ technology. This development uses a fine linen weave in much the same way as carbon is weaved, which translates into a super-tough shell with major weight savings.

The firm told BikeBiz: “We feel that our work with natural linen fibre will continue to develop and it will play a big role in topend kit going forwards.”

“We feel that our work with natural linen fibre will continue to develop and it could play a large role in our top-end helmets going forwards...” comprehensive line of headgear aimed at protecting everyone from the casual cyclist, through to the downhill rider.

With roots in snow sports, Urge has a wealth of experience in protection and having relaunched two years ago following a brief closed period, the brand is now channelling much of its effort directly into improving the cycle helmet.

Shatterproof visors, as well as stylish knitted visors that clip in and out are just some of the additional perks Urge has incorporated into its commuter protection line in order to make the finished product attractive to the end-user. Some downhillsuited models have an opening at the chin in order to properly feed a hydration system to the rider.

Decade Europe: 01792 469811

Principia dealers are now able to send potential customers along to a Worcestershire-based test ride centre to assist in tying up sales of top-end bikes.

The Nemesis Group carry the brand in the UK.

EBCO offers retail e-bike concessions

Strida designer says “upright is right” “An upright posture is the correct and most healthy way to ride,” Strida designer Mark Sanders believes. The Brit bicycle designer, interviewed on bikebiz.com during September, added: “The bent spine posture of sport bicycles, on which the industry is fixated, is incorrect for the vast majority of customers.”

For breaking news visit:

www.bikebiz.com 6 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER

Urge downhill helmets feature a mouth cut out for hydration access

EBCO’s line begins at £999 (Paul and Rick Stanforth pictured)

FURTHER TO opening a dedicated showroom during August, EBCO has now announced a series of 'E-bike concessions' now available to retail partners.

Incorporating EBCO branded wall panels, signage and bike displays for its three models, the concession provides partners with in-house marketing material, as well as planned brand marketing both in print and online.

EBCO’s managing director Paul Stanforth told BikeBiz: “Our offer will include all fittings, POS and stock. The margins are healthy, given the zero outlay and risk for the retailer and new stock will be delivered immediately after a sale is

completed. This will also allow us to protect the EBCO brand both in how it is marketed and priced in store. It really is a no-brainer, as far as we can see, but we are limited to the number of concessions we can offer so interested retailers should act quickly.”

Each EBCO bike is available as both a low step over, or roadster, giving a complete range of six bikes in total. The initial pilot concession scheme, consisting of six retail outlets, will launch soon. For more on the brand and the available concessions, visit EBCO at the London Cycle Show on stand F17b.

EBCO: 01926 437711

BIKEBIZ.COM

FLEECE COLLAR

M:TEC 5000 RIP-STOP FABRIC

STELLAR JACKET

REFLECTIVE PANELS

ADJUSTABLE CUFFS

WATERPROOF 2-WAY ZIP

The Stellar Jacket is feature-packed and is perfect for commuting in all weathers, as it’s lightweight, breathable, waterproof and windproof. Simply open the vents on warmer days and add an extra base layer during the winter. Eight large reflective panels make sure that you’re seen, and the subtly technical fit is engineered for riding, yet won’t look out of place on the high street.

- M:Tec 5000 waterproof, breathable, micro rip-stop fabric - Waterproof 2-way main zip with reflective panels, piping & detailing - Fleece collar to keep out the rain - Armpit & rear vents - Mesh lining - Fully seam taped - Velcro cuff adjusters and one handed draw cords at the hem & collar - Large map & chest pockets - Three colour options Red, Black & Yellow and available in Small to XXXLarge sizes (XXXL available in Yellow only) - SRP £69.99

To view the full range visit www.madisoncycleclothing.co.uk

NEWS

Factory Media and Future launch new initiatives TriRadar.com piggybacks on early Triathlon Plus success Factory Media launches ‘new generation’ annual BMX title Dennis Publishing’s Men’s Fitness title to be sold packaged with Bicycle Buyer in Asda

By Mark Sutton BOTH Factory Media and Future Publishing have announced new cycling publications, with the former launching an annual BMX title at Cycle Show, and the Bath-based publisher greenlighting TriRadar.

BMX Basics is Factory’s new title with current senior contributor to Ride UK, Daniel Benson, taking on the editor’s position. 30,000 copies of the new pre and early-teen targeted print magazine will go into circulation during October via cycle retailers, the Cycle Show and recreation centres UK-wide.

James Carter, director at Factory Media told BikeBiz: “The UK BMX scene is currently leading the world, with established pro riders performing at a top international level. Given the large growth in BMX bike sales, it is important to introduce

“Given the large scale growth of BMX riding, it’s important to introduce new riders to the many opportunities that the sport offers.”

James Carter, Factory Media new riders to the opportunities that the sport offers to see it grow into the future."

Factory Media has also linked with Dennis Publishing to publish an exclusive package for Asda customers. A promotional pack containing The Bicycle Buyer and Men’s Fitness is now available for £3.90, saving readers almost £4.00 off the regular newsstand price. The November issue of Men’s Fitness and The Bicycle Buyer issue 13 will be on sale from September 22nd at ASDA stores nationwide.

Factory’s new annual title (above) and TriRadar.com (right)

Going live early in September, Future’s new dedicated triathlon website complements the monthly Triathlon Plus, which itself was only launched in April last year.

TriRadar’s aim is to produce a wealth of training advice and resources – including racetraining schedules, event previews and to cover topics as diverse as nutrition.

Katherine Raderecht, group publisher of Future’s cycling portfolio, said: “The launch of TriRadar.com complements our print coverage and further builds awareness of the Triathlon Plus brand globally. Making our content available online increases its reach and this has already proved attractive to several of our key commercial partners who have backed the launch. TriRadar.com will evolve and grow, working closely with the industry.”

Sigma broadens computer Retro is still in appeal fashion for 2011 SIGMA IS aiming to widen the appeal of cycle computing with the new version of its Data Center evaluation software.

Compatible with its full cycle computer line, from the high-end all the way down to entry-level models, the Data Center 2.0 is set to appeal to a far wider audience.

A docking station is available for linking Sigma’s cycle computers to the PC and Data Center, but is not essential as the data can be entered manually.

The Center, which was first previewed late last year, evaluates cycle trip data for training and interest purposes.

Sigma’s data evaluation software now appeals to a wider audience

Sigma has also launched the Targa BC2209 cycle computer. A more robust high-end model, it’s aimed at the mountain bike market. With the screen afforded extra protection through raised side areas, the Targa is supplied without a cadence transmitter to

drive the cost of the device down, although the transmitter is optionally available.

A number of new lighting products have also been released

by Sigma, including the Powerled EVO and Micro. www.sigma-data-center.com

GERMAN-BASED apparel firm Sugoi has revealed that retro styling is key to several of its latest garment lines for the new season.

Sugoi’s track jerseys will feature retro chic, in Germanmarket-favourite green and also in ‘UK-popular’ blue and red shades.

The firm has also released new compression lines and revamped its custom clothing offering. At Eurobike the firm offered attendees the chance to create their own style of clothing. The custom service is also available online and at Sugoi

Sugoi offers custom jerseys online dealers. The Dorel-owned firm’s ranges can now be seen in Cycle Surgery stores and also at online retailer Wiggle.

NEWS

Cybertill targets IBDs with new EPoS offering Electronic POS solution ‘Retail Store’ created with single dealers in mind, says e-commerce firm

By Jonathon Harker CYBERTILL has unveiled a brand new tailored EPoS system for independent bike retailers which it promises will help free up valuable cash flow for IBDs’ businesses.

The new system – branded ‘Retail Store’ – is pitched as providing all the tools needed for independents to manage every aspect of their business and has been designed following feedback from its target audience. Retailers will be able to access and manage their store from any location over the internet, meaning managers won’t have to be tied to their store before and after opening.

Cybertill predicts that IBDs will be able to reduce stock holding by anything between 15 to 40 per cent, freeing up valuable cash flow for business.

Retail Store will also provide retailers with access to reports

Cybertill founder and chairman Ian Tomlinson

which provide up to the minute information on their retail trade.

“Cybertill has specifically developed this system for single store retailers,” explained Cybertill chairman Ian Tomlinson.

“As a business we have listened to what many independents have told us about their experience of EPoS systems. Two of the most common factors have been excessive costs and unsuitable software, which is too often designed for multiple retailers.

“Hence Cybertill has developed an EPoS system that focuses solely on what a single store retailer requires, with no superfluous features. What’s more, it is positioned at an affordable price. The whole system, including software,

hardware, installation and training is available at £3,499.”

Unlike traditional offerings, Retail Store doesn’t run locally in store and is a ‘cloud based’ solution, meaning retailers can access the software over broadband, via their POS hardware. Cybertill also manages upgrades and back-ups for IBDs. “This means independent store owners do not have to become IT experts overnight and do not face the headache of having to manage an EPoS system, as well as run their business,” said Tomlinson.

“Nor do IBDs need to invest in additional back office hardware, such as servers, just so they are able to access the back office system and reports. Retailers can access Cybertill from an internet connection, so back office reporting can be done anywhere – at home, on the road, or wherever and whenever it is convenient.”

Cybertill: www.cybertill.co.uk

Moore Large has the Power Firm grabs exclusive rights to bring Power Balance to the bike trade Beckham and Ronaldo are fans MOORE LARGE is set to distribute Power Balance’s line of celebrity-endorsed unique energy field enhancing products.

The Derby-based firm will bring the brand’s product range exclusively to the UK cycle industry. Celebs spotted wearing the Power Balance bracelet include footballers David Beckham and Cristiano Ronaldo, F1 driver Rubens Barrichello and film stars Leonardo Di Caprio and Robert De Niro.

According to the firm, Power Balance is a performance technology that uses holograms embedded with frequencies which react positively with the body’s ‘natural energy field’, apparently improving balance, strength and flexibility. The products work on the basis that almost everything has a frequency inherent to it, with

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The bracelet is pitched at improving sporting performance some frequencies reacting positively with the body and others negatively. When the hologram comes into contact with the body’s energy field the body can interact with the natural, beneficial frequency stored in the hologram. The result is, according to Power Balance, improved energy flow throughout the body.

A Moore Large spokesperson said: “It is rare that you come across such a unique product that works so well with our retail base and retail customers. From the moment we tested Power Balance we realised the benefits it could offer cyclists, from the professional to the commuter.

We are delighted to have secured exclusive rights to this product.”

Power Balance MD Mark Woodhead added: “We are delighted to be partnering Moore Large in this exciting period of growth. Our unique product, coupled with their knowledge, respect and penetration to the

cycling trade, is sure to provide a winning formula. We look forward to working with the staff at Moore Large to continue the Power Balance success story.”

Moore Large: 01332 274252 www.powerbalanceuk.com

BIKEBIZ.COM

at 0 us 3 e hE Se ot Bo ZIPVIT™ SPORT fuels male and female elite, amateur and recreational cyclists and triathletes from around the world with high performance energy and recovery drinks, nutritional bars, gels and great tasting energy chews. Each product is formulated for success by leading experts in performance and endurance, and developed in conjunction with elite athletes from world class pro-racing teams such as Cervélo™ Test Team and Team RadioShack®.

Feel stronger, recover faster with ZIPVIT SPORT, IT’S WHAT THE PROFESSIONALS USE!

“It was clear to me that ZIPVIT SPORT’s range is built on an excellent understanding of the science behind increasing athletes’ endurance levels and reducing their recovery times” Johan Bruyneel - Team RadioShack

NEWS

‘eBay for bikes won’t compete with IBDs’ Auction site also promises to tackle cycle thieves and support the trade

By Jonathon Harker GOING GOING BIKE, the recently launched dedicated bike auction site, has pledged to be a legitimate forum for trading secondhand bikes.

Creators James Johnson and Andrew Nethercot have also promised that the site – which includes social and bike events elements – isn’t intended as a competitor to independent stores.

Nethercot told BikeBiz: “We’re going after a slightly different market, targeting people who sell online more in the consumer-toconsumer market. It’s hard for them to do that to a wider market. There may be some overlap, but we’re not a physical store and we can’t compete on service with them.

"It's early days, but we've had a great reaction since launch. I think the cycling community has

really identified with the integrity of Going Going Bike due to our dedication to cycling, free-to-list policy and aim to be a legitimate marketplace for bicycles.”

Clamping down on illegal bike trading is a key element of the site, which has teamed up with frame labelling and registration firm Bike Revolution. Nethercot continued: “The added benefit of the site is that the purchaser will know he is not buying stolen bike goods – an unfortunate practice that blights the cycling community.”

Some members of the cycle trade have even begun to use the site to pedal their gear, too.

“We've got some great niche bike manufacturers selling through our site, like Racer Rosa, and we aim to sign up more brands that can provide very special cycling products to our users and provide such brands with an alternate

Going Going Bike founders Andrew Nethercot and James Johnson

route to market.

“However, our main focus is on cyclists selling to other cyclists. We want Going Going

Bike to become the first place cyclists think about visiting if they want to buy some secondhand kit, or sell some bikey stuff."

“We think we are the only bike auction site at the moment, but that’s not all the site is for – there is a big community element too.

There’s buying and selling and we’ve bike events listed there, plus elements like the ‘bike love’ section where visitors vote on how sexy a bike looks.”

Nethercot and Johnson are inviting feedback on Going Going Bike via the site. www.goinggoingbike.com

Cycle Hire boosts bike retail THE CYCLE INDUSTRY has welcomed the raft of cycle initiatives seen in London this summer, telling BikeBiz that they have boosted sales, as well as the profile, of bicycles in the capital.

The schemes – including Sky Ride, Barclays Cycle Hire and the first Cycle Superhighways – form part of Mayor Boris Johnson and Transport for London’s ‘Cycle Revolution’, with over half a million journeys via the hire scheme by the start of September.

Condor Cycles’ Greg Needham claims that hopes for increased sales are bearing fruit: “We are already seeing a positive impact on sales as more people are getting involved in the sport.

Consumers are realising that cycling is accessible, saves them money, and is enjoyable.”

Evans Cycles’ Neil Fitton added: “The more people that are out riding the better and this will

BIKEBIZ.COM

Some are reserving judgement on the success of the Cycle Hire until early hype has settled obviously have a positive impact on sales.”

While the reaction from the trade has been positive, industry voices have added that cycling in London still has some way to go.

“Anything that gets cycling up the agenda and more people on bikes is obviously a good thing,” Brompton marketing manager Emerson Roberts told BikeBiz. “But I don’t think any of these

initiatives is a magic bullet; some sales will result from these initiatives, but the most important factor in raising cycling on our streets is critical mass – the more cyclists are out

there, the more others will see it as a viable, safe option.

“The Superhighways are not fundamentally different from the countless bike lanes and advance stop lines that are routinely ignored and infringed upon. Sky Rides are a very positive move, but the real challenge comes not with sealing off central London on a Sunday, but integrating cycle use into daily commuting.

“The hire scheme will likely get some people back onto bikes, but the whole scheme has been handled in a rather British, halfhearted way; there are not nearly enough bikes or cycle stations to really have an impact like Vélib in Paris, and it’s a phenomenally expensive route they’ve gone down. I am reserving judgment until we see how they deal with damaged bikes and whether users are put off by the heaviness of the bikes.”

BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 13

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CATEGORIES Independent Retailer Online Retailer High Street Chain Distributor - Bikes Distributor - P&A Consumer Mag

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CHAIN REACTION

Cyclists in distress Cycle-SOS’ Paul Darlington explains the background to the free service and how it links in with the cycle trade…

THIS IS A background to The Cyclists’ National Helpline, the title we coined at the 2005 Cycle Show just as the first tranche of Cycling Demonstration Towns were announced. The past five years has seen a huge diversification from the helpline and claims services which characterised our activities since the 1980s, the era of Band, Cycle and Live Aid. The continued rise in the uptake of cycling since the turn of the Millennium has led us to work with companies and organisations implementing workplace travel plans and business bike schemes, the Cycling Demonstration Towns, training providers and cycling clubs. Although clashing commitments have forced us to miss the Cycle Show this year, it has always been a vital networking forum.

Our Helpline and Contact Cards have been, and will continue to be, a core activity; a no-cost bolton for any concern which wishes to provide its members, employees and students with the safety net of free access to a source of immediate advice upon cyclists’ rights.

BIKEBIZ.COM

Any organisation, when planning the inclusion of cycling in a travel plan, needs to identify demand, necessary facilities and undertake risk assessments as part of its regulatory obligations. All of which may appear quite daunting and seemingly sufficient to halt planning in its tracks. As our guide to addressing these aspects illustrates, this is far from the case.

The personnel who run the Helpline are all legally qualified and hugely experienced in the relevant fields. These include road traffic law and the regulatory requirements governing the management of workplace health and safety.

Vitally, all who provide advice are cyclists and understand bikes and cycling.

While jumping on a bike is the most natural thing in the world for the typical twelve year-old, we’ve identified a marked apprehension amongst many parents. This is probably due to a combination of perceived risk (blame earlier political emphasis on the dangers of any remotely enjoyable activity) and the Ford Cortina. As a Baby Boomer, I watched my Dad go to work on

his bike. The family car, a post war device, was a temperamental challenge which offered no guarantee of delivering the breadwinner to his employ, so it sat idle during the week until he had the time at the weekend to work on it. So the bike it was – an essential

In 1963 Ford brought cheap and reliable motoring to the working man. And bikes went into the sheds. component in our family and many others.

And then in 1963 Ford brought cheap and reliable motoring to the working man.

Bikes went into sheds and teenagers no longer learnt how to fix punctures or true wheels.

In the absence of such necessary skills, cycling in the final decades

of the last century was in danger of becoming a niche hobby.

I recall attending the CTC AGM in 2001 when falling revenues were prompting some serious directional thinking. The seachange which has since occurred and which is obvious from the very vibrant and high profile industry is testament to the work done by all in the business and sport to banish the obstacles and emphasise the benefits of active cycling. We believe that the presence of the Helpline has contributed to the general feeling of confidence that’s apparent in many cyclists today.

We’re always looking for further partnerships within the industry, whether IBDs or business bike providers, as a nocost/add-value component to the service which they offer to their customers and clients. For example, the Assist scheme we launched in 1998 financed the prompt repair/replacement of an accident-damaged bike through the cyclists’ supplier of choice.

We have compared the Helpline with a form of safety net; it’s there to assist with any of the scrapes that may afflict

the cycling population. If the worst happens, to whom would you rather speak: a real person who understands the cycling psyche or one of the daytime TV claims farmers who will sell your name and number on to a ‘ham and eggs’ lawyer? Quite literally, millions of pounds have been recovered from drivers’ insurers for the thousands of cyclists who have called the Helpline, all at no cost whatsoever to them.

In conclusion, we’re keenly enthusiastic for Bikeability cycle training, particularly the benefits of educating the motorists of the future. The cost of accidents in human, social and economic terms cannot be overestimated.

Inculcating in the drivers of tomorrow an awareness of the cycling population will save lives.

Recently there have been suggestions that Cycling England would fall victim to Government cuts. If that meant losing the cycle training initiative it would be a true false economy.

Helpline: 0808 100 9995 Landline: 01282 855468 Mobile: 07831 804 199 E: info@cycle-sos.co.uk Web: www.cycle-sos.co.uk

BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 15

INTERVIEW JIM WALKER Ian Wilson, MD at Jim Walker, pictured with ex-professional racer and founder of the Merckx brand, Eddy Merckx, and sales director Paul Butler (right)

Onwards and The Sunn is shining on East Sussex firm Jim Walker and, with a move to a larger premises taking place as you read this edition, Mark Sutton asks MD Ian Wilson, what’s driving the business forward…

16 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER

Last time we spoke the firm had trebled in size in five years.

Has this growth continued?

The growth has continued to be fantastic. By making a conscious effort in driving our portfolio forward and at the same time adding to it, we have seen very little let-up in our expansion.

You’re soon set to relocate to a larger premises – is this a case of planning for the future, or having outgrown the current space?

Over the past few years we invested heavily internally in our warehousing development, but this isn’t enough anymore. The

move to a larger building allows us to accommodate our current range comfortably, but still gives us plenty of room for future growth.

You’ve previously expressed an interest in broadening the JW brand portfolio – what progress have you made on this front this year?

This year we have already added parts and accessories brands Hudz and Clarks Cycle Systems.

Hudz is the originator of AM coloured custom hoods and Clarks is an already well established brand in the brake market. They both offer good

dealer margins and a good range of easy-sell products. Clarks is now branching far beyond just brake components too, so we’re encouraging dealers to refresh themselves with this tidy, UKdesigned firm’s product.

Are retailers beginning to know the business as more than just a high-end road specialist now?

Yes, for some time now we feel the firm has been recognised for more than just high-end road.

Thomson and Fulcrum are world leaders in their fields and they have covered all angles since day one, so the introduction of

more MTB brands and products was easy as there were no definitive transitions to go through, it was all just logical progression for the business.

Having said this, branching further away from the firm’s traditional territory hasn’t particularly brought ‘new’ custom, but has secured more interest and volume from existing accounts.

You mentioned ‘new business systems’ currently being installed at JW – how will this improve the company’s efficiency going forwards?

With the move will come a

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INTERVIEW JIM WALKER

upwards more efficient system. We have already invested in new software and this will be furthered at the new location, meaning a reduction in time from order to dispatch. And, with a greater control and insight on stock levels, we will be in a better position to serve the market more effectively.

Tell us about your stand at this year’s Cycle Show and why retailers should swing by: We have a lot of interesting things going on at this year’s show – as well as being able to take a look at the great 2011 line-ups from De Rosa, Eddy

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Merckx and Sunn, we have other sidelines of interest, so the best thing to do is to come and look for yourself come October 7th.

You have invested in staff additions this year. Which departments have seen a boost?

As well as additions to the warranty and service department, we have increased staff levels significantly in the marketing department and in sales, as well. Tony Barton, the infamous demon saxophonist, is back with us, and Andy Butler has joined him out and about on the road.

What services can JW’s Campagnolo approved service centre offer trade customers?

As a service centre we can offer a fast turnaround on Campagnolo services and repairs, and being a Campagnolo distributor means we have decent levels of back-up stock to cover our service and supply.

Which trade and consumer shows/races will JW have a presence at going into 2011?

We’ve already committed to Core, BikeRadar Live, Cycle 2011, alongside demo days and races.

Not all dates have been confirmed, but check b2b.jimwalker.co.uk,

which is continually updated with additional bookings.

Many staff ride both for leisure and competitively. Have you scored any big competition results this year?

Unfortunately for our staff riders, the introduction of a mobile pasty van has prevented many top places that should have rightfully been ours. Although the enthusiasm has remained, the speed hasn’t. However, the Jim Walker i-ride team has seen some great results in British TT. To keep up with Matt Bottrill and the team, keep an eye on b2b.jimwalker.co.uk for news.

BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 17

NEW FOR WINTER 2010 SPORTS GILLET (S-XL) High Spec, Waterproof, breathable anti rip fabric. Fully lined inside.

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SPORTS JACKET (S-XL) High Spec, Waterproof, breathable anti rip fabric. Fully lined inside.

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AEROTEX THERMALITE

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AEROTEX REFLECTIVE GLOVES (S-XL)

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AEROTEX Aerotex waterproof and breathable membrane.Tough padded palm. Fleece sweatwiping panel. Elasticated cuff.

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Waterproof and breathable membrane. reflective piping and logos. double cuff layer’

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WINDSTER Lightweight breathable, wind and waterproof. Soft lycra cuff.

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CONTACT uS FOR THE FULL RANGE. BAGS

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Tel: 01332 274252 Email: sales@moorelarge.co.uk

BRAND SPOTLIGHT SLIME

Going green With two decades under its belt, exports into over 79 countries and ecologically-sound credentials, the Slime brand has much to celebrate.

Slime’s international marketing specialist Carly Medeiros talks to Jonathon Harker…

Can you give us some background to the brand?

Slime has transformed from a single product company to a multi-faceted, branded consumer product platform for tyre care. In 1989 the original Slime Tire Sealant was developed. Shortly after – in 1992 – Slime was incorporated as Accessories Marketing. Pre-treated inner tubes were introduced in 1993 and Slime’s expansion into automotives followed in 1995.

During the next four years, Slime introduced pre-treated wheelbarrow tubes, Slime lite pre-treated tubes, Super Duty sealant, and the Lil’ Buddy – the first compressor and sealant combination kit. As a new decade approached, Slime entered two major superstore chains and was named ‘category captain’ in both, displacing major competitors. In this time, the Smart Repair and Moto Repair were introduced. In ‘08, Slime won full set placement in over 3,500 Wal-Mart locations.

Over the last two years Slime’s growth has continued with the introduction of the Safety Repair, Quick Spair Aerosol Inflator, Shield tire and wheel protectant, Top-Off glove box compressor and SlimePro sealant. Slime is exported to

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over 79 countries and has more than 60,000 retail distribution points worldwide.

Can you tell us about Slime’s ecological credentials?

Since 1989, Slime has been committed to creating products that are safe for customers, their tyres and the environment.

As the worldwide leader in tyre care, Slime’s product line works to keep tyres out of landfill sites. Choosing to use Slime to repair a flat enables the tyre to be cleaned, professionally repaired and then to remain in use. Slime sealants even contain chunks of recycled rubber, further reducing the number of tyres in landfills. Regular use of Slime pressure gauges and inflators ensures that tyres operate at proper pressure levels, maximising the tread life.

Slime Shield takes tyre protectant to the next level: the exterior of the tyre. Shield protects tyres by preventing cracking, dry rot and UV damage. Products featuring Slime’s green promise are nontoxic, non-hazardous, free of carcinogens, non ozone-depleting, and minimally packaged.

What product areas does Slime cover?

Slime markets functional, easy to use, high-quality products in four product categories, offering the most comprehensive product suite in the industry.

The first category is tyre sealant, in which we use a proprietary, non-toxic, liquid formulation that prevents and repairs flats in tube and tubeless tyres. Slime is guaranteed effective for two years and will work for multiple punctures.

“As the worldwide leader in tyre care, Slime’s product line works to keep tyres out of landfill sites.”

Slime sealant market segments cover bicycle, automotive, motorcycle/ATV, lawn and garden, and commercial/ industrial.

Next, Slime produces Inflation Systems, with portable air compressors and emergency flat tyre repair kits. Smart Repair, Power Repair and the new Safety Repair are all one step integrated flat tyre repair systems.

Slime’s third product area is pre-filled Tubes, with bicycle, wheelbarrow, tractor, or 4-inch utility tubes pre-filled with Slime tire sealant.

Finally, Slime offers a range of tyre care accessories including gauges, plugs, patches, air pumps, tool kits, valves, valve caps and general care products.

What about the Slime Pro tubeless sealant product?

This new sealant was designed and tested by engineers, chemists and professional riders to outperform the competition and exceed the rider’s expectations.

After testing other tubeless sealant products and identifying key customer complaints, Slime gathered a team of racing professionals to create a superior tubeless sealant product.

Sealing punctures up to 3mm was a key requirement, as was dropping some weight. Slime Pro weighs in at just one g per ml – the same weight as water – and you only need to use 1.5 to three ounces depending on your

riding style. Slime added in its rust and corrosion package, a trademarked secret of its automotive tyre sealants, to protect expensive wheels from any corrosion. Finally, Slime adjusted the formula to aid in sealing the bead, making it compatible with UST and conversion set-ups. As an added bonus, Slime replaced the standard toxic chemical smell signature of many tubeless sealants with a tropical scent.

What merchandise/POS do you offer for the dealers?

Slime provides merchandising and creative assistance for planograms, set signage, displays, store signage and circular advertisements. Slime also offers a wide variety of countertop, free standing and hanging displays.

Contact www.slime.com or comments@slime.com UK Distributors: Raleigh: www.raleigh.co.uk Moore Large: www.moorelarge.co.uk Fisher Outdoor Leisure: www.fisheroutdoor.co.uk Walker’s: www.walkerscycles.co.uk

BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 19

The Cyclists’ National Helpline

WORKING WITH BUSINESS TO ENHANCE THE BENEFITS OF CYCLING Providing informed advice and assistance upon cyclists’ rights and the obligations of other road users and highways authorities

Personal Injury Claims - Component Failure - Hit and Run or Uninsured Motorists - Responsibilities of Highway Authorities

Cycle-SOS congratulates all the finalists in the frame for the Bike Biz awards.

Like us, you set standards far above the bottom bracket.

NO WIN - NO FEE - NO COST TO YOU

Cycle-S.O.S. THE CYCLISTS' NATIONAL HELPLINE

FOR ADVICE ON CLAIMS / ACCIDENTS / RECONSTRUCTIONS AND INVESTIGATIONS

freephone 0808 100 999 5 cycle-sos.co.uk

BIKEBIZ AWARDS

Platinum Sponsors

Event Partners The stage is set for this year’s event

The time is

nigh After months of waiting, furious lobbying and a flurry of votes, the 2010 BikeBiz Awards, celebrating the UK cycling industry, are finally here…

The Awards take place on Wednesday October 6th at Sway Bar, London.Tickets are just £10.

BIKEBIZ.COM

THE WAIT is almost over and the 2010 BikeBiz Awards night is now just weeks away.

For those who haven’t been paying attention they’re taking place on Wednesday October 6th at Sway Bar, Great Queen Street in London, the day before the Cycle Show trade day.

Behind the scenes a vast number of industry judges have

been mulling over which of the 75 finalists have been the most deserving of the 12 awards up for grabs. This year has also seen dozens of cycle retailers – with the help of the ACT/ActSmart – make their opinion heard on the new Retailer Account Manager

award – making the 2010 BikeBiz Awards the most collaborative yet.

And if finding out who wins these unique peer-voted awards wasn’t exciting enough, the awards night will also provide attendees with (three) free drinks, a buffet, entertainment

and a casino to boot – all for a mere £10. Simply email Carly.Bailey@intentmedia.co.uk to grab your ticket for the 2010 BikeBiz Awards.

The BikeBiz Awards 2010 are supported by Platinum Sponsor Cube, plus Event Partners CycleSOS, Citrus Lime and FreeGo.

BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 21

BIKEBIZ AWARDS

Here’s a reminder of the finalists in the running for the 2010 Awards: Independent Retailer Pennine Cycles Bobbin Bicycles Rutland Cycling 18 Bikes Condor Cycles Jake’s Bikes

Distributor – P&A Hotlines 2Pure Zyro Fisher Moore Large Ison

Online Retailers Wiggle Tarty Bikes Chain Reaction Winstanley JE James Ribble Cycles

Consumer Mag Singletrack Shred Cycling Plus Ride UK Cycling Weekly

High Street Chain Edinburgh Bicycle Co-op Halfords Cycles UK Evans Cycle Surgery Leisure Lakes Distributor – Bikes Hotlines Madison Seventies Silverfish Raleigh CSG Jim Walker What?

The BikeBiz Awards 2010, the only night to celebrate the UK cycle industry

Consumer Site Road cc The Bike List London Cyclist Bikerumor.com Bike Radar Bike Brand Lapierre Saracen Apollo Cube Kona Giant Brompton P&A Brand Hope Lezyne

DT Swiss Cateye SRAM Shimano Clarks Product Innovation GoCycle Angleset, Cane Creek Timex Global Trainer Bike Revolution Lynskey Pro 29 Frame BikeHub iPhone App Cobra Tube, Fly Bikes APLS Suspension System, Pronghorn Bikes Retailer Account Manager Graham Beaumont, Reece Cycles Dave Page, Cannondale Dave Coltman, Walkers Wilma Ralston, 2Pure Ben Washington, Gore Bikewear Richard Staton, Madison Scott Greenwood, Octagocyclesport Rising Star Wisper Havebike The Bike List Enigma Titanium Green Oil

How many?

There are 12 awards, and 75 finalists, focusing on different aspects of the bike trade, including distribution, retail and media Who picks the winners?

Over 50 judges from across the cycle industry Where?

Sway Bar, 61-65 Great Queen Street, London When?

7pm on Wednesday October 6th (the night before the trade day of Cycle Show) How much?

Tickets cost a mere £10 and get you three free drinks, a buffet, entertainment, a casino and chance to grab a prize.

How do I get hold of a ticket?

Simply email Carly.Bailey@intentmedia .co.uk.

22 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER

BIKEBIZ.COM

MYSTERY SHOPPER

West London

A Capital Experience?

Well, in a couple of stores, yes. But, not all outlets shone on a day of mixed weather in the Capital. Mystery Shopper did, however, encounter what he considers to be the perfect in-store experience. Could it have been your store that impressed in the land of the ‘Boris Bikes’...?

24 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER

Cycle Surgery

Cyclopedia

WITH THE bikes located in the basement of the store and two staff members standing idly at the top of the stairs, Mystery Shopper’s visit began with parting the two to gain access to the bikes. This perfect opportunity to ask if I needed assistance was, however, not taken and I was left to stand in the basement for ten minutes before a forced interaction.

When Mystery Shopper enquired about converting a stylish singlespeed to run gears, I was advised there was no need to do that for city commuting. Fair point, assuming I planned to commute. But terrain wasn’t specified, gearing was. Besides, there’s opportunity for an up-sell here. A missed one.

Rolling with the assistant’s assumption, we discussed the difference between singlespeed bikes and fixed gears, with the later being touted as ‘dangerous’. As an impartial customer it’s nice to have this advice, but does negate the purpose of stocking these models.

BikeBiz’s man of mystery wasn’t recognised, despite profiling this store once in the past, meeting the very same staff members.

THIS VISIT went as Mystery Shopper has always envisaged a sales experience should. I was met on entry, my brief listened to before the budget was asked. The assistant then up-sold me by a cheeky £50 to £100 with concise explanation of why the investment was worth it.

The store itself scored top marks too – uncluttered and with gentle reggae music creating a smooth atmosphere and two staff visibly on hand to answer queries.

The recommended Giant model was explained to me without jargon, but with accurate descriptions of materials, weights, expected riding posture and likely longevity. Even the technical reasons behind the selection of a carbon fork were offered.

Gearing was detailed on both this racey build and on an alternative model offering a less aggressive ride, something he explained was more suited to relaxed rides to work.

Concluding with the offer of a test ride, this visit to Cyclopedia was – by a great margin – the very best of Mystery Shopper's retail visits since the series began in June 2009.

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MYSTERY SHOPPER

Evans Cycles IN A PRIME spot on Notting Hill’s High Street it was hardly surprising footfall was high, thus it took a short while to be seen. Ample stock of bikes within my brief kept me browsing, however, so Mystery Shopper feels a real customer may have hung about to be seen.

Once staff members were free I was quick to be directed to the shinier bicycles in store, which thankfully were not as pricey as they looked and so fitted the quoted budget. The staff member appeared less enthusiastic about fixed gear bikes, stating they can be difficult to handle. Fair advice, but again, why stock the models if your staff choose not to promote their sale.

Mystery Shopper was also guided through a selection of Bianchi bikes carrying more complex features, some of which were explained, others such as the trigger shifters were not, despite my ‘playing dumb’ act.

To conclude, odd details about features were offered.

A good job by the sales assistant, but a little patchy and I’ve seen better from Evans.

Cycle Care

Fudges Cycle Store

FOR EVERY good experience Mystery Shopper has, typically the following visit sits at the opposite end of the scale. Sadly, this was no exception.

Despite being the smallest of all the stores visited and not stocking many bikes at all, the first impression was in fact a good one. Politely asking me to “hang on one moment”, I expected that the assistant would then be easy going and continue to offer a polite delivery to this particular customer.

Turning his attention to me again shortly after overseeing a bottom bracket bashing, the assistant asked if I was looking to buy secondhand or new, to which I replied: “Either, as long as it goes”.

The comeback was a short, sharp: “We have nothing at this time.” And that was it, his back turned and the visit concluded. No offer of when to check back, no advice on where to look or what I should look out for.

I specified only an A to B bike for London cycling. To be offered nothing constructive with a brief so open was highly disappointing. To be dismissed in record time without anything positive achieved was pretty poor.

IT TOOK a while to be noticed in Fudges Cycle Store, though this is more than likely due to what appeared to be the store’s lunch hour. Mystery Shopper is also uninterested in the wider world while eating, so I gave it ten minutes of browsing before pushing to be seen.

Once met by an assistant, the visit proved worthwhile, with careful consideration given to comfort and efficiency of various bikes meeting my brief. It was explained that manufacturers shaved weight off racier models making them sexy, but prone to damage on potholed streets. It was therefore justified that the recommended model was more of a relaxed geometry.

A flat-barred road bike was also offered as a compromise between good looks, speed and comfort.

The pitch was strengthened with mention of the Kevlar strips in the tyres, minimising the need for puncture related repairs and, most importantly, features that will "save me money in the long term".

The assistant concluded that they would size me up for a bike once I’d given it more thought and was ready to buy. A very enjoyable visit.

BIKEBIZ.COM

Summary WITH EXPERIENCES at both ends of the scale from independent stores, this tour of a handful of West London stores proved that first impressions count. But leaving with a lasting impression is more important.

If Mystery Shopper wrote a guidebook to cycling retail do’s and don’ts, Cyclopedia would tick each and every positive, while CycleCare probably needs a refresher.

Of course we’re open to the idea that stores are busy, times are tough and people do have bad days, but an effort, however small, is required, nonetheless.

Congratulations to Cyclopedia, your store has been noted as a store definitely worthy of a revisit and recommendation.

BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 25

NEWS ANALYSIS: LONDON’S SUMMER OF CYCLING

Big smoke, big on bikes An unprecedented flurry of cycle-based activity took place in the nation’s capital this summer. Cycle retailers from London share their perspective on Boris’ bikes and more with Jonathon Harker…

BACK IN MAY 2009, from the pavements of Trafalgar Square, London Mayor Boris Johnson unveiled grand plans for cycling in the capital, drumming up awareness of a now familiar Cycle Revolution for London.

Dedicating £111 million in 2009 alone, the Mayor put flesh on the bones of TfL’s plans for a wealth of pro-bicycle initiatives, including thousands of new cycle spaces, plus the cycle hire and cycle highways schemes.

This summer saw some of those schemes come to fruition.

Most notable were the first two (of 12) Cycle Superhighways, which opened in July, followed closely by the second Barclays sponsored bike project - London Cycle Hire, which launched to ‘members’ at the end of July.

While both have seen their fair share of criticism and set backs, they have, along with the rest of the ‘Cycle Revolution’, managed to put London firmly on the pro-cycling map.

London’s bike retailers may not stock these particular models – and probably wouldn’t recommend wearing Kelly Brooks’ heels whilst cycling – but they have all seen a positive effect from the London cycling initiatives

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PROMOTING TWO WHEELS So how does this pro-bike bonanza affect retailers in the capital? Is it promoting cycling to the millions that reside, travel to and work in London?

Cycle Surgery’s head of marketing Kevin Young thinks so.

He tells BikeBiz: “I have to say that all of the initiatives are very positive for cycling in London.

I've used the cycle hire a few times and it’s a really convenient way to get around – it's like having an extra bike to use when I need it. I'm sure these rental bikes will get more people onto two wheels, which can only be a good thing for us – and the same goes for the new Cycle Superhighways and the Sky Ride.

“The more we can grow cycling, the better for the environment, health and congestion. Keen cyclists have known this for years; it's good that the message is now reaching a broader audience.”

Condor Cycles store manager Greg Needham is similarly optimistic. He explains to BikeBiz: “Pro-cycling initiatives,

BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 27

NEWS ANALYSIS: LONDON’S SUMMER OF CYCLING

such as Cycle Hire, certainly help raise the profile of cycling as they bring new consumers to the industry. It is also thanks to the Cycle to Work scheme and freeto-attend events, such as the Smithfield Nocturne and Tour Series at Canary Wharf, as they open up all elements of cycling to the public.”

Bobbin Bicycles’ Tom Morris also agrees that high profile cycle projects can only be a good thing: “All these initiatives have definitely raised the profile of cycling in London. It's not just the physical reality of these schemes but also the positive impact of their PR I think: the idea that people are aware that the Government is behind cycling and is pushing it as a positive thing.”

Neil Fitton, head of marketing for Evans Cycles tells BikeBiz: “Evans Cycles has been part of the local landscape in London for many years and has seen initiatives come and go over time. However, the initiatives

“The more we can grow cycling, the better it is for the environment, health and congestion.”

Kevin Young, Cycle Surgery that have been in development over the past few years and come to fruition have really had a marked impact on the visibility of cycling. The Cycle Hire Scheme already seems like a fantastic success (almost too successful!) and we truly believe this will get both awareness of cyclists and participation in cycling to soar.

“The Superhighways will take time for people to fully get to understand but, again, expanding these will help. We have always been passionate advocates of cycling in London and support many of the cycling events. And this year we became an official partner in the Mayor of London’s Sky Rides and, with 85,000 people turning out, I think this shows that Londoners are cyclists. We also support smaller events in London, from the Leukaemia and Lymphoma research Bikeathons to the Open Garden Squares event with mechanical support.”

Brompton’s marketing

28 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER

London’s cycle retailers believe that the likes of London’s Cycle Hire and Superhighways have helped generate sales and awareness of bicycles manager Emerson Roberts adds: “Anything that gets cycling further up the agenda and more people on bikes is obviously a good thing, but I don’t think any of these initiatives is a magic bullet; some sales will result from these initiatives, but the most important factor in raising cycling on our streets is critical mass – the more cyclists are out there, the more others will see it as a viable, safe option.”

SALES SPIKE? So is it setting bike retail’s tills ringing? Condor Cycles’ Needham reveals that those hopes for increased sales are bearing fruit: “We are already seeing a positive impact on sales as more people are getting involved in the sport. Consumers are realising that cycling is accessible, saves them money, and is enjoyable. The store's product offering is for both commuters and enthusiasts, and we're increasingly finding that

the weekday commuter is thinking about using their bike in a different way. Our singlespeed customers are now looking to purchase road bikes to go further afield. Our sales this year have been very strong and have beaten previous records, despite the snowy winter.”

Bobbin Bicycles’ Tom Morris has seen accessory sales rise following the launch of the Cycle Hire scheme: “We're already seeing Barclay bike riders dropping by for a helmet. A lot of Barclay bike riders seem to be Londoners who are trying out commuting for the first time, and are perhaps wary of splashing out on a bike that they're not sure they'll use much.

So it's quite likely that after a while they'll want to graduate onto their own bike after a few months or so on a Boris bike.

“They might want to get a fixie or a hybrid or a Brompton... but hopefully an elegant upright Bobbin!”

Evans’ Fitton adds: “I think that first and foremost the more people that are out riding the better and this will obviously have a positive impact on sales. Evans Cycles has expanded over the years and London is our heartland; we still consider ourselves to be a local store in whatever location we are in, with the added benefit that our size carries with range and stock holding.”

Fitton underlines the point that London’s cycling success story isn’t entirely down to the work of Government departments. He says: “It's not only TfL helping out cyclists in London. We recently opened a central London servicing warehouse. The demand for bike servicing in most London workshops is up to two weeks.

Bikes can now be sent to our central warehouse for an overnight service at a cheaper rate. Having only been opened a month the reports have been great with some excellent

feedback from customers.

Furthermore, all stores offer free maintenance classes for all cyclists to learn a bit more on keeping their bikes in good working order.”

It’s a sage point that Transport for London’s Cycle Hire and Cycle Superhighways are just the highprofile face of pro-cycling projects in the capital. Aside from the headlines generated by Boris, numerous initiatives – like the cycle industry Bike Hubfunded Bike It officers working with London schools, and plentiful events like the Nocturne, exhibitions and many more taking place in the capital, all contribute to an increasingly ‘pro-bike London’.

While there is, clearly, plenty still to be done to improve its bicycle infrastructure, the city appears to be showing – according to the headlines and, importantly, to its cycle retailers – positive signs that London is entering a cycling renaissance.

BIKEBIZ.COM

Core Brands Core Companies Just one Corebike show “Core bike is the one show every serious bike shop should attend, the variety of product from the many distributors and the heads up on the new season’s product make the show invaluable. Core is the one show that all the shop staff want to come to (in their own time as well!!) maybe it’s the great party atmosphere in the evening or maybe it really is seeing the bike product….. either way if you are only going to one show make it Core or add it into your already heavy show schedule you will not be disappointed!”

Steve Gill, Rutland Cycles

COREBIKE JAN 30TH - FEB 1ST WHITTLEBURY HALL Register online at:

www.corebike.co.uk

WALKERS BRAND SPOTLIGHT SERFAS

Serfing the wave Having listed just a quarter of Serfas’ comprehensive components and accessories range to date, Walkers is set to greatly increase its stock holding post Interbike. Mark Sutton discusses the progression of the company’s ‘mid-priced quality’ brand with Andie and Nick Walker…

WITH ORIGINS stemming from a California garage and born from frustrations of unsatisfactory saddle product on the market, Serfas has ballooned over the years to become a giant Stateside.

In this country, however, Walkers’ joint-MD Nick Walker claims that "the giant is sleeping, but it's soon to rouse in a big way." Referring to the past two years of gradual expansion, Walker says progress in establishing the brand in the UK has been limited to pushing 'around a quarter' of the huge Serfas catalogue. With much thought going into expanding its stock holding in a big way toward the end of this year, the brothers at the head of the family firm confirmed to BikeBiz just some of the new goods to be carried in the coming months.

"Eyewear is a definite at this stage," says Nick Walker. "Post Interbike we are finalising which product will be hitting our shores, though it's highly likely Walkers will carry the footwear

30 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER

line, clothing and higher-priced saddle product. There's also a few 'different' products that dealers will be pleased to see coming through, such as a graffiti designed floor pump with a watch fascia style pressure gauge. Pumps typically aren't a product younger buyers get hugely enthused about, but these new designs certainly help dealers in promoting accessory sales to a younger audience."

If the design and promise of a high stock holding alone doesn't swing dealers toward installing Serfas as their 'everyday sales' brand, then the lifetime warranty available thoughout the catalogue, as well as the often 50 per cent plus margins may go some way to making the package far more attractive.

"Serfas is extremely confident in its product," adds Nick.

"Having received very few returns over the years, we're confident too and pleased the product is robust enough to confidently carry the lifetime warranty. We've got some

exciting new performance product coming next year, which we're absolutely sure will perform well in the various magazines currently requesting test samples."

Further boosting Walkers’ commitment to its independent customers, the supermarkets and internet discounters are forbidden access to the brand.

The commitment here is so vigilant, the Walkers brothers pledged to personally 'take down' the source of any grey import' in the unlikely event online discounters ever get hold of the product.

Point of sale material, having been a previous bug bear with dealers, is to be addressed from early next year too, with tailored solutions. The packaging on each individual item has been designed to assist the customer with non-jargon filled explanations and works around all slatwall installations.

Utilising what is described as the 'California design influence', Serfas’ manufacturing is split

between the US and Taiwan, though each and every product is designed at the Los Angeles headquarters. Retail accounts are, of course, supported with visuals of every product via the Walkers B2B. If you've not already caught up with the brand at the recent Eurobike or Interbike shows, then log on to

www.walkerscycles.co.uk to view the latest catalogue.

"We're actively seeking retail accounts across the UK to partner with," concludes Andie Walker. "We've five sales representatives travelling the length and breadth of the UK and these are contactable via the main Walkers Cycles phone line on 0116 283 3885."

The reps and their patches Nigel Stanley: North East and East Anglia Duncan Long: North Roy Bailey: South Andie Walker: National Dave Coltman: Midlands

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INDUSTRY OPINIONS

Eurobike was electric Getting the full picture on a show that boasted over 300 product launches and over 40,000 trade visitors is no mean feat, so Jonathon Harker quizzed the industry on the trends, the highlights and the popularity of the most recent outing of Eurobike…

“E-bikes are absolutely one of the trends this year. We in the UK still haven’t embraced it as they have on the Continent and that’s a shame.”

Mark Bickerton, Dahon/ Cyclemotion

32 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER

“Eurobike is a great place to meet distributors, but not many retailers from the UK seem to visit. That’s a great shame as it really is an excellent show.

E-bikes are absolutely one of the trends this year. We in the UK still haven’t embraced it as they have on the Continent and that’s a shame too, for a couple of reasons. E-bikes are great for the industry. And secondly they give the middle-aged and elderly the chance to experience a whole different approach to transport – an alternative to getting in cars and they fulfil a great function.

But convincing the Great British public is still something to be done.

The trip from my hotel to the show took 40 minutes in the mini-van, but when I cycled in on my Vector X20 it took far less time thanks, largely, to the excellent bike lanes they have here. Hopefully the London Superhighways will fulfil that function – they’re a step in the right direction.”

Mark Bickerton, Dahon/Cyclemotion “Eurobike is a good show and it’s very well organised. There were more e-bikes this year, and it is great to see more competition in the field. For one thing, all that increased

competition means that it is an attractive market which is appealing to more and more companies. It’s also great to see the likes of big names like Bosch getting involved.

There’s obviously something in the sector if companies like Bosch are entering the electric bike market.”

Nick Child, Managing Director, Powabyke “I agree that Eurobike 2010 is good and vibrant – in fact it is hard to fault the show itself.

The travel, however, is now worse without

Ryanair’s direct flight. The lack of hotels is crazy, the traffic out of the show is still poor and the fact that it is hard to get a meal in town which doesn’t take three hours to get served (because everywhere is full) is getting tiresome.

As for what will be the next big thing? On some stands the big story is electric, on others it’s women’s products. And on American companies booths it is 29ers. Everybody can’t be right!”

Russell Merry, Joint MD, CSG UK “Eurobike has been very successful for us and it’s more of a chance for us to show our entire new ranges to the dealers and industry, rather

BIKEBIZ.COM

INDUSTRY OPINIONS

than to sell to them. We’ll visit them individually for selling, so it’s all about the chance to show off our entire range for them for the first time.

The e-bike trend that we’re seeing at the show and in the market is very important for us. For one thing, it is great to have a market that is growing and expanding the bicycle industry. Significantly, it also affects our product ranges.

Weight becomes less important to riders of electric bikes as they have a motor – so with products like our locks, where usually a few grams is very important for our customers, e-bike customers are not so worried.

So the usual added-weightequals-more-security is no longer a problem. And e-bike riders, if they have paid over £1,000 for a bike, want it to be secure, so it all fits. You want to secure it if you have paid a lot for it.

The e-bike trend also means more support for the commuter market which is

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important to us in terms of the fact that our ranges are based around that sector, such as our range of bags. ” Mark Stuiver, International Marketing and PR Manager for Mobile Security, Abus “It’s a stunning show. I know it’s tough to get here but when you do, it is definitely worth it.

If I was a bike shop owner then I’d close the shop to come here. The atmosphere is great, you get to see all the new bikes and you get to hear what people are talking about on the stands. I think the UK needs to catch up and be here.

That’s what we’re seeing too – more and more UK dealers seem to be making the trip. Normally a lot of Irish dealers come over – even the smaller ones.”

Dan White, UK Account Manger, Cube Bikes

“Eurobike this year was bigger than ever and it is very pleasing to see so many British companies exhibiting here, looking to expand their sales beyond the English Channel.

Is this the resurgence of the British bike industry? Whilst very little of the product is actually produced here, it clearly demonstrates that UK companies can compete on a world stage in design and marketing. Maybe we can take over a hall and have a British Pavilion?

Also there are a lot of UK based dealers at the show.

Eurobike is not the easiest place to get to and hotel rooms are hard to find. But once here the journey will have been worth it.”

Andy Easterbrook, Wildoo

The official view

SHOW organiser Messe Friedrichshafen also canvassed trade associations for their opinions on the show…

“I sensed that there was a very upbeat mood at Eurobike. As a bicycle industry association, it's extremely important for us to be on hand here in Friedrichshafen to enhance the contact to our customers. We see it as extremely positive that the bicycle trade show has continued to highlight the topic of e-bikes and offered a range of test courses.”

Thomas Kunz, Germany's Retail Association for TwoWheeled Vehicles

“We've only heard positive things from the exhibitors.

Some even spoke of the ‘best Eurobike of all time’.

Above all, there's a much more pronounced international character. We have succeeded in our efforts to convince policymakers in Berlin of the importance of bicycles. The politicians were delighted with Eurobike.”

Siegfried Neuberger, Chairman, German Two-Wheeler Industry Association

BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 33

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EUROBIKE REVIEW

Continental Bikefest…

BikeBiz could dedicate the whole magazine to the world’s largest bike exhibition and still only have scratched the surface of the content of Friedrichshafen’s Zeppelin hangers.

Mark Sutton toured the show for the duration of the trade event and reports on the highlights…

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BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 37

38 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER

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EUROBIKE REVIEW

Jango (Extra) The big news from the Topeak stand has to be the Jango line of folding bike’s evolution into the very top-end of the market. Creating a 9.3 kilo carbon fibre folding bike, those dealing in the brand will now have a solution for the fussiest of folding connoisseurs. As part of the ‘sport series’, the 18-inch wheeled bike carries a folding carbon frame and fork, Tstyle handlebar with all the usual quick release fold downs and 20 gears.

Jango-designed backup accessories are now also available as add-on sale items, along with a handy point-of-sale unit for dedicated dealers. The add-ons catalogue includes panniers, messenger style bags, mudguards tailored to the Jango folders, a convenient cable lock solution and Topeak-branded lights.

The Jango stand also showed off, for the first time, a folding pedelec, housing a lithium ion battery in a rear rack, which doubles up as a mudguard. Cleverly, the user of these pedelecs can control the lights at a handlebar-mounted display.

Availability for each of the 18-model catalogue is expected to be between January and February in the UK.

Urge (Decade Europe) Decade Europe has picked up a new brand to sit alongside its recently added Royal Racing and EVS Protection brands.

Urge helmets, hailing from France, started out in 1991 selling into the snow sports market, though re-emerged just two years back with a view to tackling the bicycle world.

Having manufactured a line of commuter and downhill helmets and utilising its previous experience in other markets, the brand had some interesting new technology weaved into

one new prototype.

Utilising a fine natural linen fibre weave, the brand has developed a material which, when finished, behaves much the same as carbon fibre, carrying the same strength properties.

This is definitely a product to watch, according to Urge, which believes the linen fibre technology has a strong future.

Other tidy features within the Urge line include shatterproof plastic visors, made in much the same way some break-resistant mudguard are. Visit urgebike.com for more on this exciting new brand.

Knog and Jagwire (Moore Large)

Ortlieb (Lyon Equipment) As one of the many Eurobike Award winners, Ortlieb's Micro saddlebag was flagged up as being one of the products that impressed judges for its functionality and workmanship. The features that could have impressed judges will be the usage of a newlydesigned quick release system, which clips onto the majority of saddle rails.

The tidy roll-up package also carries a wealth of reflective decals, ideal given its rear-mounted location.

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Jagwire has revealed what it calls a ‘service in a box’ with the new Hyper cable kit. Citing book-keeping and better workshop accountancy as the reason for the kits, Jagwire’s global marketing manager James Alberts told BikeBiz: “With reels of cable it’s harder for dealers to take stock of inventory, whereas the Hyper kit is essentially a full cable service in a box. It’s a really cost-effective solution and will boost better workshop management.”

The other developments come from small, but important component parts of Jagwire’s cable product. The Ripcord and Racer kits now come with Kevlar housings instead of metal innards. These will come to market at the start of November and will be available in six colours.

It’s also worth looking out for the new Hi-Flow hydraulic service accessories, which Jagwire pitches as “a system that makes it easier for retailers to stock hydraulic service accessories”.

Knog was the proud recipient of Eurobike recognition for the new line of silicone-coated ‘Sausage locks’. The Kabana, Kransky and Party Frank locks, along with Knog’s new ‘Boomer’ USB light, were all on display among the many products put up for awards.

Of particular interest to retail will be

the packaging of Knog’s new ‘Sausage’ security. As opposed to your ‘gold standard’ badge, Knog has chosen to rate each of its products on the area in which it’s safe to leave the bike locked, with each product marked with ratings from ‘quiet corner shop’, through ‘ghetto’ and finally ‘warzone’.

BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 39

EUROBIKE REVIEW

Reelight (Raleigh)

BlackBurn (Madison)

Set for availability toward Christmas, Reelight’s new light line has upped its output on previous years’ models. Three new design revisions were displayed at Eurobike, beginning with the SL500 and topping out with the RL700.

The RL700 is Reelight’s new headlight, complete with a friction-free generator.

The solid-beam emitted by the RL700 is based on a totally new patented generator design with a one watt output. Mounted to the front fork with quick mount power magnets on the spokes, the system works at a slightly greater distance than previously, thanks to more powerful magnets.

Suited to seat post and handlebar mounting, the SL500 kit is packed with both a white front light and a rear red light, both of which can operate on flashing and steady modes. Again, no batteries are required thanks to the stronger magnets and the beam emitted is through a wide angle optic lens, thus lights the majority of the path ahead, while ensuring you’re seen from behind.

Reelight was a winner of last year’s Eurobike Awards.

The Blackburn Toolmantor 3, soon to be available via distributor Madison, is what BikeBiz believes (correct us if we’re wrong!) could be the first mini multitool housing and emergency micro pump, perfect if your customers are in the habit of getting stranded miles from anywhere without anything to inflate punctured tyres.

The 17-function package boasts a chain tool too, yet the small device weighs just 144-grams, including its neoprene sleeve. All the standard fittings are tucked into the tidy pocket tool too, such as all popular Allen key sizes, ranging up to 8mm and widely used star bolt and screwdriver tools.

Philips Following successful trials in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, mainstream consumer electronics brand Philips is planning to roll out its line of bicycle lights across Europe, though the UK won't be one of the first serviced.

Having begun in the lighting market in the 1930s, the firm has a

long history in lighting, but had not announced any plans for the bicycle market ahead of the firm's presence at Eurobike.

Gathering feedback from pro cyclists and having secured OEM business, the firm’s progress will interest many in the business. At present a dynamo and pedelec-specific model sit within a small, yet neat range.

Scott (Direct) Scott Bikes are doing a line of three entry-level to mid-range BMX bikes for 2011. These form the Volt-x series and are defined simply by the numbers 10, 20 and 30, with the former two specced with pivotal saddles.

The Volt-x 10 is to occupy the just shy of £400 price point that is proving so popular within the 20-inch market. Coming gyro equipped and with a full Cr-mo, graphically detailed frame and three-piece crank, as well as trend-fitting plastic pedals, Scott feels the 10 could be a big seller.

40 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER

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The Dray Walk Gallery, Old Truman Brewery, London

See the new 2011 product ranges from Electra, Ragley, Ghost and many more Events being held nightly at Vibe Bar Guided lunch rides courtesy of Electra See Hotlines website for full event rundown

6TH - 9TH OCTOBER 2010 For more information, or to book your place please contact Hotlines Tel: 0131 319 1444 I Email: events@hotlines-uk.com Web: www.hotlines-uk.com

EUROBIKE REVIEW

Schwalbe

Storck (Posh Bikes) Storck’s top-end race machine, the F0.6, showed off some clever new tech, which has enabled the firm to tuck brakes within the 700 gram frame’s construction – something which the firm’s Eurobike representative believes is an industry first.

Incredibly stiff seatstay construction also means this is one of the first frames choosing not to include a bridge. Built exclusively for the use of Shimano Di2 technology, this frame is a racer’s dream, though will come with a price tag.

On the trekking side of things, Storck’s Multiroad is an important model within the catalogue, coming in both male and female, low step over versions, as well as an electric specific build utilising a 250-watt, Swiss-made electric motor.

The company recently presented Formula One racer Rubens Barrichello with a limited edition electric Storck Multiroad to mark the motorsporting legend’s 300th race. The build was worked on alongside F1 team Cosworth and presented by Storck founder Markus Storck ahead of the landmark August race.

Vanmoof (Direct)

Kool Stop (Scoop, Jim Walker, Spa Cycles and AMBA)

Vanmoof caught the attention of many visitors thanks to a tidy link up with Abus featured on the 'No5' build.

Embedded within the top tube of the patented No5 is an integrated chain lock developed alongside the manufacturer. When on the move the lock tucks into the frame and is said to be silent within while rolling.

What's more, as with every other model in the catalogue, the build has an integrated solar-powered LED light in the headtube, as well as tidy finishing components, including a Brooks saddle.

UK retailers are already taking interest in the brand, with a handful of

stockists in place, though many more are sought. Delivery times for Europe are four to five working days and delivery is free on orders of eight bikes or more.

Vanmoof started out in 2009, winning a Eurobike Award the very same year. Oakwood headtube mounted racks, with a fitting for the replaced solar powered light are available as a tidy add-on accessory.

With more than 50 of its staff at Eurobike and a constantly busy stand, it was safe to assume Schwalbe had a few things to shout about.

When BikeBiz swung by we were quickly demo’ed a wide variety of new product, from the new trainer specific ‘Insider’ tyre, to the new ‘Green Guard’ technology.

Green Guard is something Schwalbe is particularly pleased with, as it replaces the old blue puncture protection liner with a one-third recycled puncture protection strip. The new strip-equip Marathon tyre is also suitable for electric bikes.

The Insider tyre, though niche, tackles a long running problem of tyres overheating on indoor roller trainers.

Schwalbe’s Tim Ward told BikeBiz of occasions where customers have reported molten rubber splattering out of the back of their rollers due to the heat build-up.

This is tackled by the Insider, which uses a more heat resistant compound suited to training, though would be of little use on the roads thanks to its slick surface.

Thanks to a long history of professional cross country riders performing bodged tubeless tyre conversions, Schwalbe was also pleased to announce that as of 2011, all higher-priced cross country and all mountain tyres in the line will come tubeless ready. This has been made possible as a result of tweaking the profile of the tyre’s bead, thus finding a more secure seating position on the rim. What’s more, between zero and five grams will be added to the weight of each tyre, a negligible amount and best of all, price is unaffected by the change. Could this signal the end of UST style production?

Fans of the HS33 Magura brake, popular with the trials crowd, will be pleased to learn Kool Stop has a new set of replacement pads in three compounds.

A red shade of pad is best suited to wetter conditions, or the UK, while the black is best suited to dry conditions and the green is tailored specifically to trials needs. Each causes no damage to ceramic rims.

Avid Elixer brakes are also granted a new specific pad, which are rotor friendly thanks to a special sintered compound.

For the freestyle crowd fond of backrail manouevres, the new Supra 2 clear pad will hit shelves shortly, too.

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EUROBIKE REVIEW

Weldtite Weldtite has a number of key new items for 2011, with the silicone bike polish being the attentiongrabber on the Eurobike booth.

Available as this edition hits doormats, the new polish comes in a 500ml can and offers dealers a very strong margin on each sale.

Packs of 12 are available via Weldtite.

With Christmas fast approaching, the firm has also packaged two new bike care kits – one with wet lube and one with dry, both in stock now and available to trade in boxes of ten kits. Each of these holds a puncture repair kit, tyre levers and a bike clean brush among other bits.

As of January, two new Y Torx wrenches will also come into stock – one holding T25,T30 and T40 wrenches, the other holding T10, T15 and T20 sizes.

Dahon, Biologic, Abus, Genuine Innovations (Zyro) Genuine Innovation’s Air Chuck Elite sat among the Eurobike hall of fame, handpicked by the show’s judges for its design quality, functionality, value and super-light 16-gram weight.

The Air Chuck Elite’s convenient size and inflation capabilities make it a must-pack item for any die-hard cyclist.

Dahon and its new Biologic brand were in full force at the show too. Bagging a Eurobike award, Dahon’s Vector x10 was highlighted for its sporty, aerodynamic curves, low weight and design quality, among other things. The hydroformed frame comes with a ten-speed cassette and 14-spoke kinetix wheels, complete with a 20-inch version of Schwalbe’s Durano tyre.

Sram X7 and X9 components also power the drivetrain.

Biologic’s range was expanded with attention grabbing products like iPhone mounts and Biologic-branded flasks.

Designed to fit Dahons, as well as most other bikes, retailers now have access to a huge range of accessories, including largely un-covered areas, such as pollution masks, plus mainstream add-ons such as locks and lights.

Abus demonstrated a new case of Bordo series locks, with one hitting a level 15 security rating. On this design the inner plate prevents saw access on the joints, which are often said to be prone to attack. What’s more, the manufacturer says that not even experts have managed to pick the lock.

A ‘Bordo Lite’ is also set to come to market soon, offering level seven protection. A plastic shell protects an inner steel lining, which although minimalised for ease of transportation, is still super tough and hardened to prevent breakage.

A UK specific ‘U-Mini’ is also set to be available through Zyro which requested a design that fits better round typical lampposts and street signs.

X-lite, Nukeproof and Ragley (Hotlines) Displaying only the firm’s in-housedesigned product, Hotlines took along Ragley, Nukeproof and the recently reissued X-Lite brand.

With each now producing aftermarket components through Hotlines, each satisfying various price points and niches within the business, there was plenty on show. Designed in Yorkshire by Brant Richards, the Ragley Cragg Vale frameset is due in the UK shortly and is set to retail at just £349.99. Named after the UK’s longest uninterrupted road climb, the Crag Vale is decaled with reflective 3M strips including information about the notorious 968-foot climb. The package comes with a fork headset and mudguards.

Nukeproof is now appearing under a revamped logo giving the brand a fresh new look. Having taken the past two years to develop, the Eurobike exhibition showed off some final prototypes, such as the 200mm travel Scalp downhill

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frame, aimed to go into production with a 9.5 pound target weight and which is to be used by a full Nukeproof UK race team as of next year. Hotlines’ marketing manager Andy Gowan says the team will be made up of some very big names, though could say no more than “look out for the Nukeproof team on the downhill circuit going forwards”.

Nukeproof’s aftermarket component line, going forwards, is most notable thanks to a new line of headsets to suit most off-road bikes and sit deeper in the frame for added strength. There are also plenty of quirky add-on items such as superlight seatclamps, titanium bolts for more or less all areas of the bike,

handlebars and pedals.

X-Lite retains the brand’s original ethos in the revamped product targeting the high-end, but this time around with more colours than the rainbow. Various price points will be hit with much of the product, with both cromoly and titanium railed saddles set to land in February and to retail for £30 and £50, respectively.

Then there’s the handlebars. X-Lite will offer both alloy and high-modulus carbon low-rise bars, as well as a new ‘flat bar’, which with a wider clamping area does carry a 5mm rise.

There will also be a full carbon fork on offer from X-Lite, which will be

available in either a 9mm quick release version, or a 15mm bolt-thru axle ready version. Three different lengths will also be available at the £269.99 retail price – 440mm, 455mm and 470mm.

Hotlines is seeking distribution worldwide for its in-house brands and asks that interested parties make contact on 0131 319 1444.

BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 45

EUROBIKE REVIEW

Cube (Direct)

Ultimate Ceramic Bearings and Bebop (Eurobike)

Among the bikes flagged up by the Eurobike judges as being something special, two Cube models, the AMS and Elite Super HPC bikes sat proud.

These were among the most boxticked award highlights, with both builds flagged up for their low weight, functionality, environmental credentials, value and much more.

The ‘buzz’ around Cube’s stand itself revolved around the firm’s answer to the electric market.

Available direct from Cube as of February, the firm has deliberately played on the recent ‘motorised doping’ scandal, naming its on-board technologies both EPO and EDA, the later apparently standing for ‘electric

dynamic assistance’.

Both the male and female builds are built with a ‘no cut corners’ approach, thus won’t be the cheapest on the market, though are said to be “as smooth as electric bikes come,” according to Kai Schultz of the firm’s product management department.

Thanks to a 40-cell lithium ion battery, manufactured by German battery specialist BMZ Battery Packing powering, the build will have a strong range per charge. What’s more, the bike is notably unclogged with wiring, with just one discreetly visible wire leading to the motor. The battery is both chargeable on board, or removable.

Tidy finishing features such as Pinhead’s secure wheel and seatpost locks are standard on each build.

Though not on display at the Eurobike booth, the distributor let BikeBiz in on a little secret during the show – two new brands have signed to the firm’s books.

First up, Ultimate Ceramic Bearings will not only be new to the Eurobike portfolio, but will also be the bearing of choice for Team Sky as of next year. With a power saving of four watts per mile on previous readings from the ex team supplier, Ultimate Ceramic’s product is fine tuned and geared largely at the professional looking to shave seconds off their race times. BikeBiz was given a demonstration of the bottom bracket on the booth and we can confirm that’s the most free we’ve ever seen a set of cups glide. Full ceramic bottom bracket kits will set customers back £199.99, though a cheaper Hybrid version is also to be sold for £109.99.

Secondly, the Eurobike belt gets another stud in the form of BeBop pedals. At just 150 grams, the titanium pedal offers 20-degrees of float and the ease of entry to the clip in pedal is “the slickest we’ve felt,” according to Eurobike MD Paul Stewart.

Thanks to some clever adapters, the three pedal line will be useable for both road and mountain biking. Stewart adds: “The cleat is lightweight too, something many manufacturers neglect when thinking up pedal and cleat design.”

The range starts at £80 and hits £250.

Troyan Gloves (Seeking Distribution) Neighbouring the Leaf stand was glove brand Troyan, hailing from Germany and also seeking a UK partner.

Originally the brand revolved around snow sports, though is now backing BMX, mountain bike freestyle and motocross in a big way and sponsoring some top athletes across Europe.

The brand is about to 'go big' in the US with the backing of a top-name ski title, though is seeking further progression in Europe. Ideally a distributor with involvement in a few extreme sports markets is sought, though enquiries about the product are welcome at info@troyangloves.com.

Leaf Cycles (Seeking Distribution) Catching BikeBiz's eye by chance thanks to a tidy fillet-brazed, 'flame finished' signature BMX frame, Leaf Cycles’ representatives let us in on their search for a new UK partner.

The Joe Dodd signature BMX on the stand is in fact a one off, until the firm finds a cheaper way to get it to market. However the rest of the range is seeking a home. Criteria for a partnership is that the brand not be devalued online and that non-domestic sales are not allowed.

Covering fixies, BMX and the dirt jump market, Leaf offers complete bikes and a line of aftermarket components. BikeBiz was also told the firm has never had a single frame returned under warranty. Nine complete bikes feature in the range and these can be viewed at www.leafcycles.eu.

46 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER

BIKEBIZ.COM

Electric Bikes

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906 Alpino Long range 50 - 70 miles £1,899.00 Medium range 30 - 45 miles £1,699.00

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Douglas Lawson 01590 681553 douglas.lawson@wisperbikes.com www.WisperBikes.com

the ride of your life British Electric Bicycle Association Member

EUROBIKE PICTURE SPECIAL

Sweet jumps ! the latest kit IN BETWEEN EXAMINING obikers found Eur el, nitz sch and queuing for skills – or just le cyc ir the off w sho to time sidelines – on gaze admiringly from the show. These the und aro rses cou various the centre of at e plac k pictured jumps too saw 300 world ch whi s, hall ion ibit exh the l, a whopping premieres take place. In tota nded the 19th 41,482 trade visitors atte Eurobike show. erlogged And despite fields being wat event – Day o Dem the , only days before the new bikes put to got es nde atte re whe – continued to and accessories into action 22,300 grow in popularity, seeing lists attend. rna jou 32 1,7 consumers and

London calling Circle the wagons STANDING OUT from the crowd at Eurobike required pre-show buzz, word of mouth... and a chuffing big tent – or a teepee, to be precise. It’s an approach that certainly seemed to work for Kona, with curious passers-by unable to resist visiting the stand to see the firm’s cycle latest cycle and clothes ranges.

49 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER

RALEIGH’S EUROBIKE booth played heavily on the British heritage of the brand, with a red telephone box among the stand’s eye-catching attractions, which also served as a handy photo opp for attendees from the Continent. Elsewhere the shy and retiring Dieter ‘Didi’ Senft – aka the Tour de France devil – was only too happy to pose for photos. Fans of the German-born El Diablo will already know that he is a keen bicycle inventor, with 100 cycles to his name. Senft is also listed in the Guinness Book of Records (thanks Wikipedia) for building the largest mobile guitar, which, naturally, takes the form of a bicycle. Other bizarre creations from the crazy German inventor include a football bike.

BIKEBIZ.COM

EUROBIKE PICTURE SPECIAL

Suits you, sir WHILE WALKING the 12 halls of Messe Friedrichshafen was exercise enough for most Eurobike attendees, these energetic dancers burnt off some serious calories with a series of regular fashion shows running throughout each day of the show. Among the brands shown off by the lively bunch pictured above were X-Bionic, Gore Bike Wear, Craft, Redvil, Inverse, Scott, iXS, Ziener, Parentini, Loffler, Pearl Izumi and Shimano.

What a load of hot air...

WE’RE ALL ACCUSED of being full of hot air now and then (usually on the BikeBiz forum), but Eurobike saw more of the stuff than usual, courtesy of the ever-present zeppelin. It didn’t take long for some industry commentators to start to wonder just how much it would cost to charter one of the airships in order to get back to the UK, rather than resort to a long-winded number of interconnecting flights, drives, ferries or trains.

Standing out CUBE BIKES and Knog were among the exhibitors aiming to raise the bar with an eyecatching stand or two. Cube’s imposing split level, wood-carved-effect stand packed in its huge 2011 bike range, while Knog’s offered a typically quirky inflatable stand. That proved to be the tip of the odd-iceberg, if you will, with a recreation of the Alien ‘chest-burster’ scene used to showcase its 2011 lines.

Meanwhile, BMC (right) gives a cyclist a wide berth on the road out of Eurobike.

R2 meet you AS IF THE BEWILDERING range of bikes on display wasn’t enough to wow the punters, the organisers even chucked in a working version of Star Wars’ lovable droid R2-D2. Admittedly, this particular robot was only capable of rolling up to attendees and saying hello, but it worked for us.

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Photo Credit: Graham Watson

DOUBLETAP VICTORY! 1st and 2nd place for SRAM RED and Zipp at the 2010 Tour de France. Alberto Contador (Team Astana) wins the Tour for the second consecutive year while Andy Schleck (Team Saxo Bank) takes second place.

YELLOW JERSEY 18 DAYS IN YELLOW 8 STAGE WINS BEST TEAM WHITE JERSEY

Distribution in the UK: Fisher Outdoor Leisure LTD, www.ďŹ sheroutdoor.co.uk & Saddleback Ltd, www.saddleback.co.uk

2008 GIRO

2008 VUELTA

2009 TDF

2010 TDF

CYCLE SHOW 2010 GUIDE

That’s show business…

The UK’s largest trade and consumer bicycle-focused show is back and ready to take Earls Court by storm.

Wondering what to expect? Jonathon Harker previews some of the forthcoming attractions…

BRAND RELAUNCHES, product arrivals and even new genres of cycle product – the 2010 Cycle Show at Earls Court promises all this and more. The evolving event has already broken its previous record of 200 exhibitors at the time of writing (far in advance of the show’s

opening day) with key exhibitors upping their space at Earls Court.

And it’s not just about the new products on offer either. The show includes its usual focus on seminars (a healthy five a day) and business, now providing a greatly extended pizza area

Bohle SCHWALBE IS going single speed with new iterations of the Durano lines.

Taking on a new look especially for single speed, retro and fixies, the Durano now comes in three designer colours. The range will also be available in a specially reinforced version for the

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for on-site business meetings, as well as media awards. The retail zone, now labelled ‘the Cycle Store’ has been doubled in size and the show is also offering test tracks and activities aimed at the Cycle Show’s broad audience of consumers, including families, women

cyclists (who get their own specific area), elderly and disabled visitors, BMXers, mountain bikers, commuters, road cyclists and more.

Read on for a floor plan, exhibitor list and preview of some of the products to look out for on the trade day…

Garmin bona-fide fixie rider – entitled the Durano Skid.

Other highlights from Schwalbe are likely to include the latest from its relationship with 4x4 specialist Scott Beaumont, who signed up to compete on Schwalbe tyres in 2010 and 2011.

GARMIN IS bringing finger tapping technology to bike navigation with the Touchscreen Edge 800 at Cycle Show. Combining the popular features of the Edge 500 and Edge 705 with the aforementioned touchscreen tech, the 800 offers an array of new mapping options including Garmin GB Discoverer topographical mapping for Great Britain, developed in conjunction with none other than Ordnance Survey – making it ideal for training, touring and riding on the trail.

Smaller and sleeker that the 705, the 800 has a larger 2.6-inch colour display with versatile mapping options. Top athletes have lent their expertise to the development of the new device, according to the firm.

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CYCLE SHOW 2010 GUIDE

Exhibitor List Action Leisure Gear D35 Action Medical Research F14 ActSmart C24 Alzheimer's Society F16 AM and Co Importers (Cycle Store) Amazing Wheels D17 Aroma-Sports E22c Assist E29 Asthma UK F9 ATB C14 Batribike E11 Bernds D13 Bespoke Cycling D15 Bespoke Cycling E1a Bigfish Folding Bikes E8 BikeBiz S2 Bike Dock Solutions E32a Bike Eye D8 Bike Republic D4 Bikegreece B4 Black Sheep Sports Ltd F13 BM7 Displays B8 Bohle UK E37 Boutique Cycles F25 Breeze Blockers F8 Breeze Blockers (Cycle Store) British Cycling E17 Bromley E23 Brompton C21 Buro 9 E21a Butterworth Insurance F15 Campagnolo E36 Cape Town Cycle Tours Trust C1 Carbon Repair Technology C2 Carradice E19 Ciclismo C9 Condor Cycles Ltd E33 Cooper Bikes B2 Continental Tyres D14 Cycle Works E22d Cycleurope UK Ltd - Bianchi Division E37 Cyclodelic (Cycle Store) Dare 2B S2 Dakine F19 Demon Frameworks E14a Design Headwear F21c DillGlove Ltd E20c Dreamslide D11 Early Rider E26 EFX Performance UK D31 Embers Merino (Cycle Store) Endura (Cycle Store) Endura E24 Eurozone Brands & Sales Marketing D27c Exodus F11 Explore Exposure Lights (Cycle Store) Extra UK E35 Fishers Outdoor Leisure A2 FLI Distribution F13 Folding Bike Hut C3 Foska (Cycle Store) FreeGo Electric Bikes D9 Garmin B11 Go Cycle C6 Greyville C19

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Greyville Hope Technology IAM in2dust Italy Bike Hotels J D Cycles Jim Walker Jolly Wear Juice Lubes Kemper Fahrradtechnik Kidney Resarch Kleinebenne GmbH Kool-Stop Europe Liix Love Velo Lyon Maxi Milani Minx Mobiky-Tech Moore Large Moose Cycling Mosquito Multisport Distribution My Velo Nemesis New Metal Tech ONDA Osporto Trading Co – Gipiemme Paligap Pashley Pashley as Moulton Pedal Precision Peugeot Plain Lazy Polaris Polaris Apparel Powacycle Primal Wear Inc Quest 88 Redspokes Ribble Cycle Co. Rose

(Cycle Store) C8 E20b E2a C25 D2 D21 F27 F20 D13 F23 D13 C16 D19a E2B C27 B8 B15 A1 C24a C17 F29 C20 E27 F21d (Cycle Store) D30 B7 E30a 22a C12 B6 E22b B6 CS1 (Cycle Store) E2c B3 F12a D10 F10 D18 D16

Royce UK Ltd F24 Satmap B13 Sealskinz F3 Sealskinz (Cycle Store) Shiner B17 Shutt Velo D27b Sigma C11 Simon A Holt & Co E7 Singer F12 Spencer Ivy F17c Split Second E12 St John Street Cycles E2 Sub 4 C23 Surf Sales (Cycle Store) Surrey Human Performance Institute E21d Sustrans D12 Sweaty Betty C28 Target Wheels F22 The Big Paper Bag Co D29b The Moulton Bicycle Company B6 Torm Cycling Cycle Store Torq B10 Triathlon Consultants Ltd (Cycle Store) Twenty 26 E18 Two Zero (Cycle Store) Ultimate Sports Engineering and Exposure Lights D26 Ultimate Sports Engineering (Cycle Store) Ultra Motor E5

Unicycle.com E5b Upgrade (Cycle Store) Upgrade E28 Utility C29 Velotex D10b Vitesse Pro cycle Wear (Cycle Store) Wheels for Wellbeing (WiZZBiKE Foundation) D1 Wiggle C13a Wildoo Limited C31 Windwave D19 Wisper Ltd E3 WyndyMilla B8 ZipVit E30

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CYCLE SHOW 2010 GUIDE

7th-10th October 2010 Earls Court, London

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CYCLE SHOW 2010 GUIDE

Juice Lubes JUICE LUBES is another firm expanding its remit, now moving into distribution and taking on sole UK distie duty for Sky Team-sponsoring Kask helmets and premium ZeroRH clothing. Both boast strong margins, competitive price points and strong dealer support, the firm tells BikeBiz. It still produces the Juice Lubes range of UK-made maintenance products, now with two POS sizes.

Moore Large Meanwhile Juice Produce is the firm’s first non-maintenance parts range, including FreshLines – braided steel brake hoses available in 18 colours.

Coming with fittings for every major brake manufacturer on the market, the firm says it can easily manufacture fittings for obscure brands too.

The firm is also about to launch a specialist wheel building service called CC Tweaked. Find out more at the show.

Myvelo FRESH FROM its arrival on the cycle scene, MyVelo’s customisable bike service is heading to Earls Court.

Promising a revolutionary way for customers to choose and customise their bike, the firm invites consumers to head to its West London showroom or its site (www.myvelo.co.uk) to design their bike, allowing them to choose the colour of the frame, wheels, rims, mudguards, saddle and grips – in white, blue, green, black, red and mauve.

The bikes themselves are available in men’s and women’s versions and feature a lightweight aluminium alloy frame, 21 speed Shimano gears, a

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skewers, headsets, bases, bottom brackets and also its new lighting range.

But it’s not just about the brands.

Moore Large will also have terminals where consumers can register to be a member of new consumer site TodaysCyclist.co.uk. With incentives and prizes on offer, the firm expects that to be a hit with attendees on the consumer days of the show.

Peugeot Bikes comfortable Italian Selle Bassano 3 zone comfort seat, fully adjustable stems and handlebars and Kenda puncture resistant tyres. The bikes start from £375 and are built in the MyVelo workshop next to its West London showroom.

Upgrade REYNOLDS, Lezyne, DMR and Kinesis will be bringing their 2011 lines to Earls Court. Every wheel in the Reynolds range has been updated, with the MTB range attracting particular attention, not least with the new XC race wheelset, featuring a full unidirectional carbon rim, a carbon hub centre, straight pull spokes and convertible 10/15/20mm hub. Reynolds’ All Mountain version will also be on hand.

Lezyne’s on-bike inflation solution – the Road Drive CFH – includes a CO2 and pump combine with Flex-Hose technology. The highest pressure version can reach 160 psi,

THE DERBY-SET distributor will be bringing a number of its brands to London, including Knog, Lake, Limar, Blackjack, One23 and recent signing Power Balance.

Knog’s long and eagerly awaited new lock range will be on show alongside its established light, bag and accessory lines. Lake will be showing its full lineup, as well as offering demos of custom fittings of the Lake shoe.

Also at the stand, Limar will have a range of new helmets on show which stretch into a number of categories, including urban, multisport as well as mountain bike and road helmets. New component brand One23 will be making its debut at Cycle Show with bars, stems, pumps, chain rings,

CYCLEUROPE UK tells BikeBiz that it is going to use Cycle Show as the platform to re-launch the Peugeot Cycles brand to the UK. After an absence of nearly ten years, the rides are set to attract plenty of attention.

The Peugeot bike brand has had something of a troubled recent past, of late – in 2004 the cycle brand was pulled by PSA, leaving a gap which was eventually filled by various other brands. In 2009 Cycleurope was contacted again

by PSA, now keen to get back into the blooming cycle market.

With Peugeot approaching its 200th anniversary the time was ripe for a rebirth, resulting in the creation of an anniversary range

to set up a 2011 season launch. With those troubles behind Peugeot Bikes, Cycleurope sees a bright future for the brand. The focus of the new range will be the family and commuting solutions, with a range that includes ebikes. You can find out more at the stand at the show.

USE making it ideal for road tyres, with two other versions available (the Pressure Drive CFH and Alloy Drive CFH). All three will retail for £54.99, with pump, hose, 16g cartridge and frame mount.

DMR will have new lines including the Bolt and the Omen frames. The former is designed to ride like a DMR hardtail with suspension, built with tough 4130 CroMo tubes. The Omen is Sidekick-inspired and developed by elite UCI four-cross racer Duncan Ferris as the latest DMR race frame. Kenesis’ Crosslight Csix2 carbon promises to be a key too.

Upgrade will be over at stand E28.

THE EXPOSURE line of lights will be a key attraction at the USE stand at Cycle Show. All of the 2011 range run on Cree XPG LED – approximately 30 per cent brighter and also more efficient (and cool) too. Rear light Flare promises to up the ante at £40. Bright enough to be seen even in broad daylight, the small affordable unit aims to up road safety for all cyclists, whether time trialliists, triathletes or commuters. Fully waterproof, the units fit via a no-tools-required bracket. Also up from the firm is the Six Pack. At £450 it packs in 1,800 lumens. The cable-free design is pitched as a mountain bikers dream.

The Joystick Mk.3 (£165) is the next version of the light that has bagged a

raft of awards. Now offering 60 more lumens for the same burntimes, the new beam offers greater distance penetration.

The USE brand will have a number of new lines on display on the stand too, including the Summit Carbon Road bars (SRP £225) and the USE Summit Alloy Road bars (SRP £60). Newest of all with be the USE Track Rings, which have yet to be set an SRP. Watch this space.

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CYCLE SHOW 2010 GUIDE

Wildoo

Wisper

EXHIBITING ON stand C31, Wildoo is showing off much of its product line-up including the Token and Jet Black ranges. Pletscher is also set to feature, as is Wildoo’s EU-Bottle custom printed sports bottles.

Private label bicycle frames, parts and accessories, will be showcased alongside Wildoo’s recently launched custom cycle clothing range.

WISPER IS set to bring its light, high performance e-bike converson kit – the DaaHub – to booth E3 at Earls Court. Marking the device’s UK debut, the DaaHub is aimed at cycling and e-bike enthusiasts who want a top of the range high performance bike.

Promising to quickly and easily transform existing road, mountain or even racing bikes into an electric version, the DaaHub ambitiously promises to create a whole new genre of cycling.

Two years in development using the expertise of the Wisper brand, the DaaHub also appeared at EuroBike.

Fisher Outdoor Leisure AS REVEALED in last month’s BikeBiz, Fisher Outdoor Leisure has ramped up its Cycle Show presence this year, packing in even more top notch brands.

The SRAM offering will feature the latest 2011 MTB and road products – the first time for most to see and try the full 2x10 product families. UK audiences will also have their first chance to see the RockShox 2011 lineup. Dan Standbridge and Ben Reid of the Dirt Norco Race Team will be on hand, while the Norco stand will focus largely on the BMX lines, plus the Dirt Norco Team DH Bike. The road sector will be served with the full 2011 Look range, including track and MTBs. Santini’s technical clothing, including new Aquazero-utilising garments and the innovative Dfend protective range will appear, as will folding brand Kansi – making its Cycle Show debut. Kansi treats will be on offer alongside the full range and owners will be able to bag extra goodies at the stand.

The Fisher stand will also feature:

Basil bags; bspoke clothing for commuter and leisure cyclists; new models and colourways from Met’s 2011 helmet range; Vavert’s new coordinated mudguards and pedals, plus saddles and grips; award-winning Airace pumps; Masterlock bike security; the Smart lighting range; Kaaboom’s latest cleaning lines; Sportourer saddles; and the Tacz range of trainers – with a competition to win a Team Saxobank signed jersey to boot.

Powacycle

POWACYCLE IS set to launch its Infineum Continental bike at Cycle Show. Based on the Infineum Extreme’s stackable battery concept the Continental promises to bring stylish elegance to the electric bike world. As with the Extreme, the batteries can be

added to perk up the range of the bike.

The lightweight high efficiency motor and modular connection system have also been taken onto the new bike, as has the high spec ethos of the Infineum range, featuring high-end componentry on a frame with 28-inch wheels.

Bike-Eye HOT ON THE heels of its distribution deal with Birmingham-based Reece Cycles, Bike-Eye will be heading to the Earls Court show this year to grow its cycle trade presence.

Found on stand D8, Bike-Eye’s cycle safety product now includes the introduction of a new version of its bicycle mirror. The fresh design includes a larger bike mirror and came about as a result of demand from consumers.

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Just the facts…

Trade opening times: 10am – 7pm, Thursday October 7th Trade registration: www.cycleshow.co.uk/bikebiz Consumer opening hours: Friday October 8th, 10am - 6pm Saturday October 9th, 10am – 6pm Sunday October 10th, 10am – 5pm Last year’s consumer attendance: 24,000 (4,000 more than 2008)

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A NEW APPROACH TO PR

It pays to be lippy in PR Metal band guitarist and Italian Vogue cover star Juliet Elliott does the PR for Charge, rides fixies and has a cosmetics licensing deal. Intrigued? Carlton Reid finds out more...

THERE AREN’T many fixie-riding PR professionals with their own lippy. Or who have thrice been on the cover of Italian Vogue. Or who have been prosnowboarders and toured Europe in a metal band. Juliet Elliott, as one Flickr commenter said, is one “gnarly chick.”

She stands out in a crowd.

Even without the tattoos. Her PR business, Final Agency (run with Posy Dixon), does the PR for Charge and for Knog, brands that also stand out from the crowd.

BikeBiz doesn’t tend to get many press releases for lipsticks so the one we got from Les Ettes, a perfume and cosmetics brand, well, stood out from the crowd: “Juli-ette is the new lipgloss

by Les Ettes in collaboration with Juliet Elliott, East London renegade, famous world-wide for her fixed gear bike skills and her gregarious attitude towards life.”

It’s the type of interview that we’d never have imagined running in BikeBiz, but we took the opportunity to pucker up with Ms Elliott...

Could you imagine any bike shops stocking your lip gloss?

I think it’s more likely to be seen in surf and snowboard shops, alongside the suncreen and stuff, as well as in some boutiques and streetwear stores. I drew the

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graphics myself. We’re gonna make a short clip to go on the website of me riding, plus there will be some riding shots up there. Obviously you don’t have to ride a bike to wear it, and you don’t have to wear it to ride a bike.

Tell us about your background I was a pro snowboarder when I was younger which was super fun; I got to ride all day and travel the world doing what I loved. At the same time I was doing some modelling and I managed to combine the two for a few years, eventually ending up with three Italian Vogue covers under my belt. I

There aren’t many fixie-riding PRs with their own lipstick brand. Or who have been on the cover of Italian Vogue three times.

Or who have been pro-snowboarders and toured Europe in a metal band.

wasn’t really into the modelling though, despite its glamourous image. The snowboarding just kinda fell by the wayside after I joined a band and ended up going on a three month tour playing squats around Europe over the winter season.

When I get into something, I throw myself into it wholeheartedly and somehow without really meaning to, I’d missed the entire winter. So then I decided my pro snowboarding days were over.

How did you get into bikes?

After doing some session work as a guitarist, I happened to discover fixed gear bikes and I was hooked immediately.

Initially the reason I rode a fixed gear was simple – it was cheaper and there were less parts on it to steal. But back then there weren’t as many people riding fixed so the scene was quite tight-knit.

I ended up making a lot of new bike friends pretty quickly and finding out more about the potential of these bikes. I started trying to do tricks and I loved it.

Fixed is great for transportation, for exercise and for doing tricks. Since getting into fixed gear bikes, though, I’ve just become obsessed with bikes in general. I started riding BMX

recently and I love it. I like things that are all consuming: when I am riding my bike I am not thinking about anything else at all.

You ride everywhere?

Yes. 100 per cent of the time.

Where does Charge fit in?

Charge sponsored me as a rider a couple of years back. In return for their support I ride as much as I can, and try and shoot the odd photo to get them some coverage.

In addition to that, myself and my partner in crime, Posy, do PR for them. Since Charge took us on, we’ve started working with other bike related brands, like Knog.

Is the lipgloss just the start of a much bigger brand portfolio?

Juli-Ette is a lipgloss which I’m bringing out with Les Ettes, a perfume and cosmetics company geared towards young, sporty types. Les Ettes sponsors surfers, skaters and snowboarders. They’re a great company run by a cool gang of girls, very eco-conscious and super supportive and their products are good. After Juli-Ette the lipgloss, we plan on releasing a nail varnish. Funny, eh?

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INTERVIEW HUGO DAVIDSON, KNOG Hugo Davidson flew in for the Look Mum No Hands launch in London

No kangaroos from Knog With futuristic products and edgy marketing, Knog of Australia has built up a cult reputation, but it’s a cult with mainstream appeal. Carlton Reid meets with Knog co-founder Hugo Davidson...

INFLUENTIAL BLOGGER BikeSnobNYC famously billed Knog’s Frogs as ‘hipster cysts’ because New York fakengers (fixie-riders inspired by hardcore messengers) invariably covered their handlebars in the all-in-one rubbery LED lights. Knog has sold 2.5 million of these iconic lights and, last year, spent $500,000 on shutting down factories producing copy-cats.

Employing in-house intellectual property rights staff, on a turnover of $12.4m, and with 26 designers, is all a far cry from Knog’s first appearance in the bike trade. This was at the Taipei trade show in 2003. Its first products were a pannier bag and a handlebar LED on a stick.

By the following year there were 35 Knog products, all of them ahead of their time (the world wasn’t quite ready for orangeand-black Knog shoes).

It’s a brand that can’t stand still: in 2010, Knog introduced 56 new products. It’s a brand with Tourette’s Syndrome: the

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Knog catalogues are littered with expletives. Nothing, it seems, is taboo to Knog. Which other brand would call its puncture repair kit Porno Patches?

While the marketing is bohemian, the distribution is anything but. Knog signed with Moore Large in 2006. The relationship has borne fruit. The UK is Knog’s biggest market.

Knog is owned by Catalyst, a design consultancy based in Melbourne, Australia. Catalyst produced designs for bags and laptop sleeves for mainstream companies such as Sony, but Catalyst execs wanted to create a house brand, and, despite having almost no links in cycling, picked the bike trade to launch into.

Catalyst co-founder Hugo Davidson, an industrial designer, said he chose the bike market because it was based on sustainability, a growth industry, and there weren’t many creative designs in the market.

“Cycling products were quite

dull. There were lots of generic Chinese factories producing the same crap. We thought we could make a difference,” said Davidson.

“We looked at a whole load of different sectors, but we liked cycling the most.”

At the 2003 Taipei show, Catalyst signed with 16 global distributors.

“We found there were lots of nice people to work with. It was a friendly industry. It clearly had a lot going for it. None of us at the time were proper ‘cyclists’.”

Davidson said the brand developed its ‘look at me’ persona when, four years ago, it hired chief marketing officer Mike Lelliott: tall, big beard, never without a cycling cap, a messenger at heart.

“He’s very much a ‘look at me’ person,” said Davidson. “We totally changed the tone and direction of the brand. We became much clearer where the products were heading, what each was for, and how we needed to approach the market.”

Knog hired category managers, and started to expand. Knog’s Frog lights sold in big numbers, benefitting Catalyst and the company’s by now 46 global distributors. In the UK, Knog had been originally distributed by Extra, but there was a brand clash with Topeak and Knog had been jettisoned.

Moore Large moved in.

“Moore Large committed to ranging the brand, they didn’t just want to cherry-pick a few products,” said Davidson.

“Moore Large was willing to put their balls on the line. They believed in the brand. They dedicated staff to Knog. This was a breath of fresh air. As a result, the UK is our biggest market.”

Earlier this year, Knog moved into locks.

“Anyone can produce a boring black lock,” said Davidson.

Beneath the funky exteriors, each lock is tougher than it looks.

“If we can’t design something unique, we don’t do it,” said Davidson.

At Eurobike, Knog rolled out its lock line with a controversial stand that featured products in situations which, ahem, wouldn’t get shown on Blue Peter.

“The marketing approach we take is very considered,” believes Davidson. “Yes, there’s some initial shock value. We had a lot of press attention after the girlon-girl action in the catalogues, but it’s not fake: our studio is fifty per cent female. A couple of those are gay. We throw all the marketing in front of our people and ask them where it sits with them. For the demographic we’re aiming at, it’s all good.

“My wife tells me we go too far, but we don’t consider it serious, it’s an amusing take. We don’t mean to offend anyone.

“We’re sensitive to market requirements. If dealers won’t stock our product because they don’t like our marketing, consumers won’t get a chance to buy our products. Bike shops ‘get’ the product and the marketing.”

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ACTSMART: THE CYCLING EXPERTS

It’s Show Time for the ACT With so many new initiatives coming out from ActSmart at the moment we asked marketing and communications executive and Cycle Show virgin, Jonathan Harrison, what he expects of his first visit...

Is Cycle Show a trade or consumer event for ACT? It’s both, which brings its own challenges and opportunities.

Thursday is a trade only day, but we view it as being four trade days and we’ll be ready to meet retailers and suppliers throughout the event. One of the obvious benefits is promoting retailers and their offering to the cycling public.

What consumer promotion will ACT be doing?

Many retailers don’t realise that they are already working with us. ActSmart maintains the most extensive database of cycle retailers in the UK, which at Cycle Show will form the basis of a ‘Shop Search’ function available to all show visitors.

Every retailer should be listed and if they’re not, they simply need to provide their details.

Our database feeds numerous consumer websites, one of which is The Cycling Experts, which re-launches at Cycle Show. I hope IBDs make the most of this free promotional opportunity by updating their online details now.

What will be the focus of your stand (C24)?

Cytech will be a major focus, with a technical advice centre staffed by ATG, technical demonstrations and a competition where participants will have a chance to win a Cytech level 3 module. Cytech is the industry technical standard, owned by the industry and Cycle Show is a great opportunity to promote accredited specialist retailers technical superiority on the High Street.

Of course, we will also be on hand to discuss our business support and cost-saving services.

Tony Jones, business development manager (another Cycle Show virgin) will be on

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Non ACT subscribers can register as a bronze partner free of charge at the Cycle Show, or online... site to explain all and to talk about the new developments.

What about your Ride It Away cycle finance scheme?

Yes, Ride It Away has been one of our biggest successes of 2010, so it will be a key feature both for the trade and the general public. Cycle Show will be the start of a national consumer campaign to promote how and where cyclists can find the bike of their choice and ‘ride it away’ using finance.

The first of ACT’s seminars on the trade day will be about Ride It Away and the team from Moneyway will be on site to talk about the finance programme and forthcoming developments.

Who should visit your stand?

Everyone – consumers and trade. I think ACT has suffered in the past by not penetrating further onto the shop floor and 2011 will see the launch of our ‘people programme’, focusing upon careers, skills development, recruitment and employee benefits. In busy retail environments we believe it’s critical that employees understand everything we can bring to the business as many are the managers and owners of the future. We have something of value to discuss with all Cycle Show’s visitors.

What would you like from trade visitors?

We would like every trade visitor, retailer, supplier, employer or employee to spend a little time with us to understand what we currently provide. We’re also excited to tell people our plans for 2011 and we want Are you making the y? to know what ACT nit most of this opportu and ActSmart er sum con r you e Make sur can do to help charge on the up to date motional listings are pro improve their day and s/ ce rvi /se les yc z/c .bi www.actsmart ng business, immediately sti l-li na tio mo consumer-pro profitability or start 618 7256 ll ActSmart on 0845ation Ca enjoyment in the benefiting from orm inf for more workplace. important We’re not selling information and anything and any cycle advice. Myself and my business that is not already colleagues, Tony, Katie and subscribing can enrol as a Donna are really looking forward Bronze partner free of any to Cycle Show 2010.

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FOCUS: NCN 15TH ANNIVERSARY

One million bike journeys a day …that’s the impressive statistic the 15-year-old National Cycle Network can now boast.

Jonathon Harker takes a look at the reach, progress and future of the ever-expanding Network…

WHILE LONDON’S Cycle Superhighways have been grabbing much of the headlines for the past few months, another better-established and nationwide-stretching network of bike lanes and paths have been celebrating their 15th anniversary this year.

Officially launched on September 11th 1995, with Meatloaf handing over a National Lottery cheque on national television, the National Cycle Network’s growth has been akin to the proverbial bat out of hell.

Over the last nine years it has grown in length by 200 per cent and the network now extends over 12,800 miles and claims the headline figure of one million bike journeys a day on its network.

The National Lottery Millennium Commission pledged £43.5 million to the project at its 1995 launch. It’s a sum that has been used incredibly cost effectively, particularly when compared with the cost of roads.

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According to 2006 statistics, the average motorway costs an eyewatering £29.9 million per mile.

Offering a stark contrast, the National Cycle Network costs around £45,000 per mile to build – and with none of the resulting pollution from the combustion engine after it is built.

It dwarfs the motorways in size too, with more National Cycle Network miles in the UK than there are of motorways. In fact, construction of the Network was the most widespread project of its kind since the building of the motorways.

The National Cycle Network’s anniversary has been seized upon as chance to sing its praises, as you might expect. Sustrans chief executive Malcolm Shepherd was not shy in coming forward: “It’s amazing to see just how much this Network has grown in just 15 years. It really is a vital transport system that allows people to get to work and school everyday, whether on foot or bike.

“It’s a key part of the future of UK transport and makes local journeys much easier to do without a car. It goes through major cities as well as connects rural communities and is a great way to get out and enjoy the UK.”

As an interesting sideline the Network hosts the largest collection of outdoor art and sculpture in the UK, boasting over 2,000 pieces from 300 artists.

FUTURE RIDE It would be tempting to spend most of the 15th anniversary congratulating the NCN on its frankly huge achievements. But the future of the Networks, and their wider role in the country, is a key focus, as Shepherd explains: “Over the next 15 years we want to see more people walking and cycling for short everyday journeys. Small changes can equal big environmental returns.”

Sustrans has also been reinforcing the message of spending on cycle infrastructure, rather than ploughing cash into cars, and bending the ear of HRH Prince Charles – a keen backer of the Network to win that initial £43.5 million back in 1995.

“This was a great opportunity to talk to HRH Prince Charles about the work we do and the ongoing success of the National Cycle Network, which is a vital part of the transport system in the UK. If everyone in Britain made one less car journey every week, it would reduce car travel by at least ten per cent and would mean an annual saving of seven million tonnes of carbon dioxide.”

In the short term, there are practical matters for the Network to attend to. Almost 3,000 volunteers help Sustrans maintain the NCN, and it’s just seen the completion of the ‘Way of the Roses’ – a 170-mile route from Morecambe to Bridlington.

One fact that should stick in the minds of the Government is that last year the health benefit of cycling and walking on the Network was an estimated £384 million. It’s a figure that puts that initial National Lottery investment of £43.5 million firmly into perspective.

BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 67

PEOPLE AND RECRUITMENT Send your recruitment news to

mark.sutton@intentmedia.co.uk

Former Asda CEO, Andy Bond, takes a place Elsewhere the trade sees a marketing hire frenzy across Madison, Shutt VR and 2Wheel Distribution, plus Factory Media launches new annual mag, with Gunner and Benson on board...

68 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER

MADISON Madison's latest recruit, ELLIE GUTTRIDGE started her career as a journalist working on local newspapers in Kent before moving to London to become a court reporter for a London agency.

Taking up the position of communications officer, Guttridge will be coordinating all company news and press releases gong forwards. ALBERT STEWART remains in charge of communicating product news.

Guttridge also previously worked at Yours magazine at Bauer Media, before making the leap into communications and marketing, taking a role with Cycle Woking, one of the Cycle Town’s initiatives aimed at getting more people cycling.

According to Guttridge: "This led on to my new role as communications officer at Madison where I will be responsible for getting news out via our website, newsletters, Facebook and Twitter about Madison and all of our brands."

2WHEEL DISTRIBUTION IRIS KUCKELBERG has moved on from her marketing role with Cycling Sports Group to join 2Wheel Distribution. Beginning as a marketing assistant at Adidas, Kuckelberg has experience of handling the promotion of big brands such as Cannondale, GT, Mongoose and Schwinn.

Taking responsibility for marketing O'Neal, Lezyne, EVS,

Moto Cinch, and Rekluse, Kuckelberg is now contactable on iris@2wheel-distribution.com.

Ellie Guttridge

WIGGLE Former CEO of Asda ANDY BOND has been appointed as non-executive director. The appointment of Bond to the Wiggle board is designed to further develop the business in both UK and overseas markets. Bond's knowledge as a passionate cyclist, coupled with his understanding of retailing, ecommerce and international markets, was key to the appointment.

He is the fourth senior appointment at Wiggle in the last 12 months. He joins HUMPHREY COBBOLD (CEO), AIDAN FITZPATRICK (IT

BIKEBIZ.COM

PEOPLE AND RECRUITMENT

People & Recruitment is Sponsored by Halfords

on Wiggle board

Andy Bond director) and recent recruit MARTIN TALBOT (marketing director), who was formerly marketing director of play.com.

This year has also seen NICK PINK promoted to operations director.

Bond recently completed the Land’s End to John O’Groats ride for the Asda 'Tickled Pink' Charity.

SHUTT VR Two recruits have joined the Shutt VR team this month, with intern MATT BEEDHAM and Shutt VR team racer joining the marketing team, while JESSICA MARSHALL becomes office manager and head of customer service.

Though still a full-time marketing student at Newcastle University, Beedham is already maintaining the Shutt VR website and running the firm's e-marketing campaigns.

FACTORY MEDIA With the launch of a pre and early-teen focused BMX magazine, Factory Media has given additional roles to existing Ride contributor DANIEL BENSON and Ride’s advertising manager IAN GUNNER. The annual publication, scheduled for launch this October, has professional rider Benson leading the editorial content as the editor of BMX Basics. Gunner has been confirmed as the brand advertising manager.

BMX Basics will be launched in early October with an initial distribution of 30,000 copies to coincide with the autumn period leading up to Christmas,

BIKEBIZ.COM

Jessica Marshall

Ian Gunner obviously the key time for bicycle sales for the youth market.

The publication will be available for free through a network of cycle retailers with an interest in BMX, the London Cycle Show, skate parks and other youth recreation centres.

BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 69

In No St w oc k

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70 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER

BIKEBIZ.COM

RETAIL ONLY

The trade’s guide to sourcing stock, up-and-coming IBDs and the very latest products

RETAIL COMMENT TUBE STRIKES seem to be have become an annual occurrence and with nearing three million people using London’s typically efficient underground service daily, that’s a lot of people stranded in one of the world’s busiest cities.

Evans’ often hyperactive PR department was quick to claim during the most recent cluster of strikes that tube action equals more sold bikes and it’s a perfectly believable claim. A rise of ten per cent during strike week, the firm predicts.

With BikeBiz’s close proximity to the Capital we’re often asked to trip down to the big smoke and it’s clear from the moment we land at Kings Cross that the hustle and bustle of the underground in peak time is going to cause some problems, even when the service is running faultlessly.

So, what happens when the city goes into meltdown? The Boris Bikes disappear quickly, as we’ve observed, one indication that cycling is the ‘back-up’ plan for many. But why must pedal power be plan B? I’d go as far to say demand for the scheme may well have been underestimated.

Of course, if Evans’ analysis is correct, it appears many are indeed becoming fed up with the uncertainty around organised transport. I, for one, avoid buses and trains where possible. In fact, I’m convinced being packed like sardines into a box deep underground makes one sweat far more than a

The Mayor’s installing air conditioning on the underground. ‘Pish and Fiddle’, he’d travel by bike given the choice... gentle roll on two wheels. The Mayor’s now installing air conditioning on many routes. ‘Pish and fiddle’, I’ll still go by bike and so would the Mayor.

Though many blogs are still arguing the toss over TfL’s commitment to cycling, in my view, TfL aren’t doing a bad job of driving cycling traffic through London. Take the most recent SkyRide, for example. A reported 85,000 cyclists showed up for a 15km tour of the City. Freestyle riders are even curious enough to experience mainstream cycling, alongside the many thousand, before taking detours to an ever-increasing volume of city skate parks.

‘Critical mass’ is essential to encouraging others into the mind set that cycling is a “safe and viable transport option,” says Brompton’s marketing man Emerson Roberts. Whether branded with Sky and Barclays logos or not, the authority’s efforts are mirroring the industry’s wishes.

Whatever your opinion on TfL’s efforts, it’s a safe bet that retailers in less pro-active districts wouldn’t object to their local transport authority pushing cycling to the masses with as much gusto. Having just read one Kent councillor’s tirade against cyclists, I feel sympathic to the county’s cycle retailers.

Their pleas for help may always fall on deaf ears.

Mark.Sutton@intentmedia.co.uk

IN THIS MONTH’S ISSUE NEW PRODUCTS

73

Ritchey’s tyre line finally hits the UK, Walkers introduces Serfas lifetime warranty-carrying light range and more...

CLOTHING AND ACCESSORIES

75

Rain and wind is again set to consume the UK. BikeBiz documents what’s on offer to keep your customers snug...

LETTERS

80

Alf Webb, long time mechanic trainer and City and Guilds writer, praises the coverage of training facilities in the press...

CYCLELIFE EDLESBOROUGH, JANES LTD Janes Ltd has been an integral part of village life for over one hundred and Twenty years and has been stocking Raleigh bikes since 1927.

It all began in 1888 when after more than two centuries of farming Ezra Janes broke away from the village based family tradition and commenced making shoes for people instead of shoeing horses Three years after operating his business from a cottage, Ezra decided that he would build a house and shop. Firstly he negotiated the purchase of a property round the green only to find that he had bought it from a man who didn’t even own it and so lost his deposit. In 1891 the original eight room building was erected which now forms the main part of Janes. In 1918 hire and recharge of accumulator batteries for wirelesses was introduced followed by the sale of radios and cycles. They stocked Vindec bicycles (Brown Bros) and Capital Cycles before becoming an official Raleigh stockist in 1941.The business grew and with the demise of shoe making and repairing, the shoe retailing side grew, along with the addition of electrical appliances such as kettles, irons, wash boilers and spin driers, etc. By the 1960’s the business had been separated into two shops with the shoe shop and the cycle/electrical shop standing next to one another on the High Street. During the seventies the house was converted into extended shop premises and Carpet sales were now becoming a more significant part of the business. In 1994 one hundred and three years of local history came to an end when brothers Martin and Peter Janes closed

Cyclelife Membership Benefits • Retain your independent identity whilst trading under the Cyclelife brand • Enjoy preferential terms • Marketing Support • Store Development including 50% contribution towards shopfit, point of sale and signage

the shoe shop doors for the last time. Whilst the cycle, electrical and carpet side of the business was very much alive they saw that, with the current trend in shopping habits, it was prudent to finish the shoe business and concentrate on the other areas of trading.

In August 2007 Janes became one of the ever increasing numbers of independent bike dealers to join the Cyclelife network.

The family has seen many changes in the bike trade over the years. After the war everyone had a bike which they used to cycle to work at the Vauxhall Plant in Luton, a 25 mile round trip. In recent times there has seen a resurgence in commuter cycling. Christmas was the main time for bike sales, this is not now the case as electronic merchandise has replaced the bike as the main Christmas present. Bikes are more about lifestyle, are affordable and customers tend to buy throughout the year.

Peter Janes has been a loyal stockist of Raleigh over the years saying “Raleigh was a good name with a good back up and support service for dealers and this still applies now. It is good for a small independent shop to get a complete range of bikes from one manufacturer which we would be unable to do from other suppliers.

Janes is very much on board with Cyclelife, we have benefitted as it gives us an identity in the family cycling world.”

Marcus Mitchinson is in charge of the cycle’s department at Cyclelife Edlesborough. He is passionate about cycling and is meticulous in undertaking repairs. Peter says the good reputation of a store is down to the excellent service provided by mechanics, it is all important to a stores success.

Raleigh is looking forward to many more years partnership with Cyclelife Edlesborough, Janes Ltd.

New store opportunities We are looking for independent bike dealers in various locations throughout the UK to join the Cyclelife Partner network.

Target Towns – Aylesbury, Bath, Bedford, Brighton, Catterick, Lancaster, Lincoln , Newcastle, Norwich, Oxford, Warminster, Watford, Target Locations –Cornwall, Derbyshire, Devon, Dorset, East Anglia, Gloucestershire, Isle of Wight London, North Nottinghamshire, Somerset West Midlands, Worcestershire, Scotland, Wales, For more information please contact Paul Wignall at Raleigh on 07730 666647 or email paulwignall@raleigh.co.uk

www.cyclelife.com

NEW PRODUCTS

New gear

Featuring some of the latest brand spanking new product available to dealers, BikeBiz details fresh goods from Walkers, Surf Sales and many more...

Ritchey Tyres Paligap 01454 313116

Bright Cover Oxford Products 01993 862300

Kenesis Pure CX Fork Upgrade 01403 711611

NEWLY ADDED to the Paligap business, Ritchey’s tyre range has been well received across Europe to date and is now available to the UK trade.

The range of tyres includes the brand’s old favourites, such as the Zmax, as well as some brand new designs like the Excavader and Speedmax.

The range starts at £13.99 for the entry-level road tyre, all the way up to £90.99 for the WCS racing slick option.

Paligap is seeking new dealers and is offering what it says are “good dealer stocking incentives”. For more specific details on these, please call Paligap.

TO SIT alongside its range of Bright Tops and Bright Vest products, Oxford is now selling a reflective rucksack cover.

Made in China to Oxford's own specification, the cover has elasticated straps meaning it will hug most rucksacks’ contours and protect the covered bag from rain and splash from the tyres. High visibility reflective materials are blended with fluorescent yellow shades and black strips to ensure riders are seen when hit by a car headlight.

Costing just £9.99, the roll-up cover is packaged in a small reflective bag for storage when not in use.

THE PURE XC is Kinesis’ latest Cyclocross fork and is based on the fork that comes as standard with the firm’s advanced new Crosslight CSix2 frameset. The Pure CX replaces the long-serving ‘Crosslight Pro’ fork, yet it is 168g lighter thanks to a more advanced construction and still the same price, to boot.

The Pure CX fork has straight blades and huge clearance at the crown, it uses full carbon construction and has been fully tested to comply with the latest EN standards. This fork also has the benefit of mudguard eyelets, making it suitable for commuter or tourer use. Stock is now with Upgrade.

Transition TransAM Surf Sales 01303 850553

Bearing Press and Extraction Tool RapidRacerProducts trade@rapidracerproducts.com

Serfas True Lights Walkers 01162 833885

JUST IN time for what will undoubtedly be a typical British winter, the Transition Trans AM frame should prove popular with those seeking a tough, sub-£500 hardtail frame.

Built from Japanese butted 4130, the frame carries some cool new features like a custom chain tug for singlespeeding, removeable cablestops and water bottle mounts.

The decals and paint job, available in red, green and silver, are said to be one of the key selling points.

The TransAM carries a one year defect warranty and a lifetime crash replacement warranty, to boot.

RAPID RACER Products has revealed to BikeBiz a prototype bearing press system, which it says will be available in the coming months.

It is designed for the home mechanic to extract and press frame linkage bearings, although it will work on some wheel hubs and freehubs. 16 kits will be available for the most commonly used sizes.

Customers can identify which kit they need either by reading the bearing number written on the rubber seal of each, or likely with a little help from the retailer, can measure the inner bore race and outer race of the bearing to identify which kit is needed.

CARRYING a liftetime warranty on both models, Serfas has introduced two new lights to its range – the True 150 and 250 front LED lights.

Retailing at £60 and £80, respective of the above lumen output, the lights will be in stock with Walkers Cycles from the end of October. Both are mains rechargeable, as well as chargeable via a USB. Also due in October and new to Serfas’ lighting portfolio is the ‘Night Savers’ group of lights, costing just £9.95 at retail and available in eight colours. An adjustable strap means these lights will fit more or less anywhere on a bike’s tubing.

BIKEBIZ.COM

BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 73

CLOTHING AND ACCESSORIES

Wrap up for the winter Summer’s sadly come to an end and nothing confirms this more than having to look up winter clothing stock. Luckily, Mark Sutton has done the rounds with a number of distributors and clothing firms to see what’s available as the nights draw in and Jack Frost begins to nibble on your customers’ toes…

2Pure

Shutt VR

FOUNDED BY Emilio De Marchi right after World War II, De Marchi Sport is probably the oldest cycle clothing brand on the market. The firm is responsible for some of the biggest innovations in cycle clothing to date, such as the tubular knit, the ‘French’ zippered collar, the first hi-tech cycling short pad and first 3D engineered garments.

Now in stock with 2Pure, the autumn/winter line has some exciting new garments including the Contour Plus line, including bib short. Both of these feature ThermaShield TiX material for warmth and the award-winning Elastic Interface Technology C10 chamois. The Contour Plus is also available in a women's specific model.

The firm claims to be the only manufacturer to specify this high level

SHUTT VR burst onto the scene last year with a few garments that enjoyed plenty of press attention thanks to some attractive design work.

For this year the firm is making moves to broaden into more technical product, highlighting a new ‘Rain Cape’ as a product the firm foresees doing well. Constructed from top-of-the-range stretch fabric sourced from Switzerland, the lightweight garment is waterproof, breathable and windproof. Featuring reflective trim, a hem gripper and a small pack-

of EIT chamois on its tights and shorts.

To keep your upper body warm on those winter training rides De Marchi offers the Contour Racing Jacket. This features ThermaShield TiX, combined with Roubaix, for warmth and windproofing exactly where it is needed. Add to this the pre-shaped sleeves for a comfortable riding position and the reflective inserts front and back and you have a highly versatile jacket.

0844 811 2001

away size means this jacket is great for year round wear.

Casualwear still features strongly in the line, too, with a new leisure jacket designed for pre and post ride comfort.

Constructed from Polartec, the jacket offers unrestricted freedom of movement thanks to breathable, stretchy four-way stretch panels. It is also wind resistant to reduce the effects of wind chill and is machine washable. With its high roll top collar, long cut to the body and subtle detailing the DS Jacket looks set to be a top seller for 2011.

01943 601031

The UK’s largest Cycle Show returns to Earls Court from October 7th to 10th.

Call Upper Street Events on 0207 2886443 for booking details.

BIKEBIZ.COM

BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 75

CLOTHING AND ACCESSORIES

Zyro

Fisher Outdoors

DESIGNED BY Zyro and having secured a position among the world’s leading performance clothing brands, Altura’s winter line expands the existing Attack, Night Vision and Ergofit performance ranges.

The Attack MTB range has been expanded with the introduction of the flagship Attack X jacket and restyled Attack Jacket, both using the time-tested React Extreme threelayer waterproof fabric. Other new Attack products include a long sleeve jersey, overshoe and the innovative Attack braces. Altura’s braces fit very simply to the Attack waterproof legwear, ensuring the trousers and shorts are held neatly in place without having to over tighten the waist adjusters.

A further expanded Night Vision range for 2010 caters for all types of male and female riders, from occasional commuters, to club riders who understand the importance of being seen by other road users. Key new items such as the Evo Vest, Night Vision Jersey and helmet cover, as well as subtle tweaks to the Velcro LED mount

THE THREE main brands offered by Fisher that cover all the cycling sector's road and off-road needs are bspoke, Santini and Troy Lee Designs.

Santini is highly recognised worldwide, mainly thanks to its claim to be the official jersey suppliers to the UCI World Championships.

The range offers a wide variety of options across jerseys, bib shorts and tights, replica kits, socks, gloves, gilets, jackets and much more for both men and women. Comfortable padding and stylish designs are this year supported by new innovations, including the technically advanced Aquazero waterproof, breathable and elastic fabric (unique to Santini) and the latest Dfend protective range.

The bspoke range is aimed squarely at the commuter and leisure market with a range of clothing that combines both technical features with off the bike style and comfort. Developed in conjunction with Transport for London, the range is ideal for anybody who loves to ride, but who may not want to wear traditional cycle clothing.

01727 798345

on all Night Vision tops, make this a technically stronger line than previously. Traditional hi-vis yellows are complemented by ‘stealth black’ with dark reflective trim for those who don’t want to shout ‘I’m a cyclist’.

The women’s specific line also continues to expand with products in all categories tailored to the female figure and available in a wide range of colours. For performance female riders the expanded Synergy range now offers a full winter riding wardrobe in matching designs using hi-tech fabrics and panel designs.

01845 521700

Seventies DUB BMX has linked up with BikeBiz’s in the saddle profile for the month, Joe-Tek, to create what the firm says are some ‘sickening’ t-shirt designs. Bound to go down well with the ‘yoof’ of today then. Flick to page 90 to find out more on the Joe-Tek collaboration.

Most of Seventies brands produce soft goods to complement their hard good lines. Take footwear brands Lotek and Orchid – both offer a full line of shoes, as well as sideline clothing items, bags and accessories.

The latest drop into the Hastings warehouse comes from Kink, which has put together a new backpack complete with space for a large laptop, a main compartment big enough to work as a travelbag, as well as more side pockets and stash points than you can count. To top it off, the ‘Reaction’ backpack comes

Troyan Gloves

OCCUPYING THE Charge carousel at Eurobike, attendees invited into the internal meeting room and Surface clothing display would have seen the brand's new line of socks, gloves, as well as new waterproofs.

One such item is the revamped Aquaphobic jacket, set to retail for £119.99 and now available in brown.

Elbow patches have also been added to give the areas prone to wear further longevity. The Aquaphobic packs plenty of clever features into the slim-fit garment too, including a secure chest pocket with headphone port, 'draft excluder cuffs', a sweat wicking lining and much more.

Both full finger and fingerless gloves join the Surface line this year and revolve largely around comfort with the use of Merino wool and black lambs leather.

01202 732288

Raleigh

kitted out with helmet straps and some straps on the bottom that BikeBiz has yet to work out the purpose of…

Kink also has a new line of casualwear, including tidy new designs the Celestial and Tarnish t-shirts.

0845 3103670

info@troyangloves.com

TELLING BIKEBIZ at Eurobike that a distribution partner in the UK would be welcomed, Troyan can offer a comprehensive line of gloves and some clothing items.

Originally the brand revolved around snow sports, though is now backing BMX, mountain bike freestyle and motocross in a big way and sponsoring some top athletes across Europe.

The brand is about to 'go big' in the US with the backing of a big-name ski title, though is seeking further progression in Europe. Ideally a distributor with involvement in a few extreme sports markets is sought, though all enquiries about the product are welcome at info@troyangloves.com.

76 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER

Cycling Sports Group UK

THE COMPREHENSIVE Avenir clothing range from Raleigh features everything from summer mitts to durable waterproof shells. A top-seller year round in the UK is the Performance Waterproof jacket at £49.99. This is a fullyfeatured, cycling specific jacket made from a breathable

Skins

outer fabric with mesh liner, carrying reflective piping and fitted with an adjustable wrist, neck and waist. The jacket comes in five sizes and three colours.

For the imminent colder days there is the winter range of jerseys, tights, overshoes and winter gloves. Roubaix type fabrics, windproofing and Teflon treatments feature throughout.

01773 532600

01543 420550

AVAILABLE in a long and a short sleeve, Skins Cycle Pro jersey is one of the more styled compression garments in the firm’s line.

The micro polyester and spandex garment is super soft and shapes to the body’s contours. The back panel features a dipped tail with a rubbery insert to stop it riding up your back, while other sewn-in features include well placed high-visibility Skins logos.

Customers looking to reap the benefits of the garment’s compression properties – designed to increase blood flow to the muscles – are highly recommended to use chest measurements.

BIKEBIZ.COM

BIKEBIZ.COM

BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 77

CLOTHING AND ACCESSORIES

Moore Large WITH TIFOSI Optics, Vangard technical garments, Lake shoes and house-brand Outeredge all supplying clothing and accessories via Moore Large, dealers have a head to toe solution to stock needs.

If the performance end of the market is your store’s forte, then a selection of product from Vangard and Lake wouldn’t go amiss, especially given Lake’s custom shoe mould offering. One particular model is the custom-fit carbon fibre road shoe the CX401, now in stock at Moore Large.

Customised using a conventional oven, the fit can be re-moulded to fit a customer’s foot perfectly. The CX401 is made from kangaroo leather, adjustable via a side mounted Push/Pull BOA lacing system and complete with a temperature regulating heel and tongue liner. The CX401 is available in regular fit, wide fit, half sizes and three-hole, or with a Speedplay specific cleat.

Madison

Vangard’s winter line is predictably full of fabric technology and, as previously, the ‘Cool Max’ fibre is widely used in conjunction with ‘Elite MTS’ tech, which is designed to guide perspiration towards the core of the tread and away from the body. MTS also supplies a tight fit with optimal freedom of movement.

New from Derby-designed Outeredge and in time for winter is a range of 100 per cent waterproof bags with 3M reflective strips adorned throughout. The range covers universal panniers, bar bags and wedge bags and retails from £19.99 to £44.99.

01332 274200

MADISON’S OWN clothing line continues to grow in size and with no sign-up, or minimum buy-in stipulations, dealers are free to order as much, or as little, as they like.

With the cooler months now approaching and the best way of battling the cold being to layerup, Madison’s range of value Isoler baselayers (including short and long-sleeved tops and tights) should tick the boxes, starting from £17.99 retail price.

Another staple performer in the Madison range is the Stellar waterproof jacket, priced at £69.99 retail price. Available in both a men’s and women’s cut and three

Sugoi

Buffera

PUSHING THE latest track jerseys at Eurobike, Sugoi isn’t keen to let the fair weather clothing sales die off just yet. Having said that, the firm has just announced a new unisex jacket – the Versa.

The Versa features a magnetic snap-on set of sleeves, which are designed to be tugged off when the rider gets hot – both sleeves can be easily stowed in rear pockets. Instead of delicate zippers that won’t work the way you want them to, the ten magnets put the sleeves back in place almost by themselves.

The Versa boasts brand new lightweight Argon fabric and for safety; the jacket also features lots of Scotchlite reflective material to offer 360-degree visibility at night.

Online product customisation is available both online and via those who sign up as Sugoi stockists. 07734 206702

HIS AND HERS trunks, or ‘boxers’ if you prefer, are the latest addition to the SueMe clothing line.

SueMe trunks are made from a mix of beech tree pulp, which is a naturally anti microbial, odour resisting fabric, with a little Lycra to give support, fit and comfort along with durability. Use of Lycra also helps the trunks retain their shape post wash.

Seams are all placed out of the way of rubbing or chaffing points, making these great while bike riding. The knitted, elasticated waistband has a

Ultra Sport Europe BESIDES DISTRIBUTING the Bern helmet line to the bicycle trade, Ultra Sport Europe has an exciting travel friendly bike accessory under its portfolio – the Ultra Bike Bag. Designed and developed in the UK alongside athletes such as the Atherton trio, the bag used to be known as the

Torm

Neil Pryde Bike Bag, though under its new label has consistantly come out on top in consumer magazine tests.

Ultra Sport Europe has recently announced that it is to carry shoe brand Adio Footwear, with the first drop landing in January. The shoe brand is popular with with the BMX and skateboard crowd.

01332 813150

mail@torm.cc

LAUNCHING ITS first line of clothing at this October's Cycle Show, Kent firm Torm is working on an ethos that you needn't pay over-the-top prices for quality cycling apparel.

Torm's range centres on the four staples of any cyclist's wardrobe – base layers, short and long sleeved jerseys, and arm warmers. Adopting the innovative SportWool as its signature technical fabric, the firm has produced a versatile range that packs a few features into a very reasonable price list.

Retailing at £55.00, Torm's debut jersey carries left and right waterproof pockets, reliable YKK3C zips, as well as ultra breathable merino and polyester fabrics used throughout.

78 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER

different colours, the Stellar punches well above its weight.

As of early September, Madison should also be fully stocked with Pearl Izumi’s new winter range. The brand's new flagship P.R.O Softshell 3x1 Jacket stands out as an clever piece of technical kit. It provides a comprehensive cold-weather system combining a Primaloft liner jacket, Cocona Softshell Jacket and detachable thermal/softshell balaclava for maximum versatility and protection in even the nastiest of conditions.

Despite the hefty £299.99 price tag, this is a complete modular jacket easily tailored to your customer's needs.

0208 385 3385

soft brushed back for comfort and to better stay in place.

Retail price is £15 per unit, £40 for a pack of three of £55 for a five pack.

01707 852244

Wildoo WILDOO SPECIALISES in custom-made cycle kit including jerseys, shorts, jackets, gillets, bandanas and gloves.

High performance fabrics, Italian inks, YKK zips and ‘Coats’ threads are used to deliver exceptional quality, but with what the firm says carries competitive pricing.

Digital printing means that Wildoo can produce just 20 jerseys per order, which should appeal to clubs and retailers. Wildoo is also able to offer competitive prices for event organisers, charities and brand managers seeking large quantities.

08709 771550

Onda

07772 778735

BIKE CLOTHING brand Onda only very recently launched in to the UK market and is ramping up its efforts with a stand at the Cycle Show.

Onda covers all aspects of cycling too, whether it be areodynamic roadie clothing, or mud, sweat and tears resistant cyclocross gear, it's all available via Onda. The range comprises products especially designed for men, women and kids. Onda even offers you the option to personalise your own kit.

Visit the brand through the duration of the Cycle Show on stand B7, where the current winter 2010 range will be displayed, together with the 2011 summer wear.

BIKEBIZ.COM

LETTERS PAGE

BikeBiz is keen to publish your opinions, whether they’re from letters, emails or via BikeBiz.com...

STAR LETTER

Mail to: Saxon House, 6A St. Andrews Street, Hertford, Hertfordshire SG14 1JA

Email: Jonathon.Harker@ intentmedia.co.uk

In response…

The rise and rise of training “It is good to see that training for bike mechanics is becoming more and more publicised” THE BIKEBIZ interview with Sean Lally is an excellent example of more publicity for bike mechanic training. He attended a course with us about five years ago.

Teresa and I began teaching in June 1991. We became City and Guilds accredited in 1995 and carried on from our shop near Buckingham to our present workshops near Spalding. During that time we taught at Aylesbury and Peterborough Colleges.

Our training has always been above the City and Guilds curriculum.

It was some years after this that ACT created its Cytech training and accreditation. It is only over these past few years that bike shop owners have taken on board that they

should have their staff fully and correctly trained.

I re-wrote the City and Guilds assessments in 2004 but because of restraints on funds and time they couldn’t set them up. It was I, with very able assistance from Teresa and Roger Cook (formerly Halfords top management), that the new curriculum will now come into force.

By the end of the year there’ll be my new and up-todate curriculum for levels one and two. I wanted a level three, but City and Guilds said it couldn’t be envisaged for some time, if ever. Hence the curriculum as you now find it.

As a result, we’ve created our own ‘Certificate of Attainment’ covering hydraulics, advanced wheel

building, frame geometry, etc, as part of the curriculum.

They even ‘dumbed down’ my levels one and two, saying that ‘we need to keep it low to give everyone a chance’.

While Teresa and I insisted that training must be up to a high standard, it’s going with the new curriculum and assessments as set by them.

Our training has always been of a high standard and has resulted in hundreds of people now in good jobs and owning their own shops/repair businesses. Our courses are always full (we take up to six to ensure full and adequate instruction) and we’re always under pressure to add more dates. We’ve tried to retire, but people won’t let us.

Alf and Teresa Webb

Star Letter Whether it’s a hand-written, sent-through-the-post letter, email or a comment made on the BikeBiz forum, the best letter of the month wins a prize from Oxford Products.

This month the lucky winner will receive Oxford’s Ultra Torch 9.

Part of Oxford’s top selling range of LEDs and lights, the front light has nine ultra bright diodes, a quick release mounting bracket and comes complete with batteries. The sturdy aluminium body makes it ideal for general purpose use as a compact torch. The rear LED has 3 modes, 7 diodes and a universal mounting bracket.

80 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER

SEAN LALLY did his training with Alf and Teresa Webb and the Bike Inn in 2003 and has never looked back. He and Cycle Systems will always be grateful to them for the training and accreditation provided, as he was able to launch his career on the back of it.

As Alf and Teresa say here, the training is going from strength-to-strength. As a respect to their input to the industry, City and Guilds invited the Bike Inn to contribute to the development of the new framework alongside all other City and Guilds providers of the current qualification. There has been a lot of interest from all providers and some future

providers towards the development of the new syllabus and many have helped over the past months.

The combined efforts of lots of good people means that the new assessments and syllabus are designed to fit into the new Qualification and Credit Framework and is more advanced and highly recognised than anything we have used before. With the training market growing, it will become the choice of new providers, helping to increase the awareness of the City and Guilds cycle mechanics qualifications. Something that will benefit us all.

Sean Lally, Director, Cycle Systems

From the Forum...

GETTING TO FRIEDRICHSHAFEN “NOW THAT Ryanair no longer flies direct, I wondered if anyone (BikeBiz?) has thought about chartering a plane and taking the majority of the UK over?”

Cotterpin “I am not sure if this was a serious post or a leg-pull but we did seriously look at this two years ago as there are always 20 to 30 of us that end up going from the Bristol area (2x2, Paligap, Saddleback, etc). You can charter from as little as 14seater planes, I think (which was just not cost effective), but I am sure if we got the numbers up to 40-50 we could get something on from Filton Airfield in Bristol.

After taking the Bristol, Heathrow, Zurich, Train, Ferry, Spacehopper route this year it has got to be looked at again...”

Scott_2x2

“What’s the viability of a coach?

ACT ran a coach trip to the Cologne show years ago – the take-up was very good.”

ChrisCompton “What is the capacity of the Zeppelin? Maybe that could be chartered.”

Wildoo “Just made a quick call.

A 50 seater plane from Manchester direct to Freidrichshafen from the Wednesday until the Sunday, will be between £25,000.00 to £30,000.00. So £600 each – something to think about.” hicycle “£600.00 each. I just choked on my cornflakes.”

Wildoo

BIKEBIZ.COM

2pure 0844 811 2001 www.2pure.co.uk

Eurobike Ltd 01332 774796 www.eurobike.uk.com

DISTRIBUTOR

DISTRIBUTOR

Otagocyclesport 07939 543016 www.otagocyclesport. co.uk

Seventies 0845 3103670 www.seventies.co.uk DISTRIBUTOR

DISTRIBUTOR

Abacus Online Ltd 0151 342 9799 www.abacusonline.net EPOS

Ascend Retail Management System 01908 280667 www.ascendrms.com EPOS

Fat Spanner 07966401165 www.fatspannerworld. com

Pacific Cycles Inc +886 34861231 www.pacific-cycles.com

DISTRIBUTOR/MANUFACTURER

MANUFACTURER/DISTRIBUTOR

Fisher Outdoor Leisure 01727 798345 www.fisheroutdoor.co.uk

Paligap Ltd 01454 313116 www.paligapltd.co.uk

DISTRIBUTOR/IMPORTER

Hotlines Europe Ltd 0131 3191444 www.hotlines-uk.com DISTRIBUTOR

Cube Bikes Uk Ltd www.cube.eu 0031 180441350 DISTRIBUTOR

Custom Sports Clothing Ltd 07580 495881 www.customsports clothing.com MANUFACTURER/DISTRIBUTOR

Cybertill Ltd 0800 0304432 www.cybertill.co.uk EPOS

Cycle Division Ltd 0845 0508500 www.thecycledivision. com WHOLESALER/DISTRIBUTOR

The Cycle Show 0207 2886733 www.cycleshow.co.uk EVENT/EXHIBITION ORGANISER

Digital Retail Solutions Inc 001 8003229471 www.digitalretailer.com EPOS

Hykeham Wholesale Limited 01522 801550 www.hykehamwholesale. co.uk DISTRIBUTOR/WHOLESALER

Jungle Products Ltd 01423 780088 www.jungleproducts.co.uk www.santacruzbikes.co.uk DISTRIBUTOR

Lyon Equipment 01539 625493 www.lyon.co.uk DISTRIBUTOR

Monterey Industries Ltd 0117 9509499 www.masibikes.com www.brevm.com DISTRIBUTOR/MANUFACTURER

Mojo suspension Hoodoo ltd 01633 615815 www.mojo.co.uk DISTRIBUTOR

Moore Large and Co Ltd 01332 274252 www.moorelarge.co.uk DISTRIBUTOR

DISTRIBUTOR

SKS +49 2333831246 www.sks-germany.com MANUFACTURER

DISTRIBUTOR

Parklife (Havant) Ltd 02392 475895

Sonic Cycles 0207 2432848 www.soniccycles.co.uk/b2b

IMPORTER/DISTRIBUTOR

IMPORTER/DISTRIBUTOR

Pashley Cycles 01789 292263 www.pashley.co.uk

Sport Direct Ltd 0845 2693060 www.sport-direct.co.uk

MANUFACTURER/DISTRIBUTOR

DISTRIBUTOR/MANUFACTURER

Peter Dobbs Design and Print Services 01482 224007

Stormfront Technology Ltd 0800 6121044 www.stormfront.co.uk

MANUFACTURER/DESIGN & PRINT SERVICES

EPOS

DISTRIBUTOR

Bohle UK Ltd 01952 602680 www.schwalbe.co.uk

Silverfish UK Ltd 01752 843882 www.silverfish-uk.com

Qoroz 01453 889204 www.qoroz.co.uk MANUFACTURER

Raleigh UK Ltd 01773 532600 www.raleigh.co.uk www.cyclelife.com DISTRIBUTOR

Red Cloud MC 01767 692831 www.redcloudmc.com MARKETING, PR & EVENTS

Reece Cycles PLC 0121 6220180 www.reececycles.co.uk

Trek Bicycle Corporation 01908 282626 MANUFACTURER

USE Ltd 01798 344477 www.exposurelights.com www.use1.com MANUFACTURER/DISTRIBUTOR

Vigour Corporation 0092 524269920 www.vigourcorporation.com MANUFACTURER/EXPORTER

Walkers Cycle Components Ltd 0116 2833885 www.walkerscycles.co.uk WHOLESALER/DISTRIBUTOR

DISTRIBUTOR

Saddleback Ltd 01454 299965 www.saddleback.co.uk

Zyro Ltd 01845 521700 www.zyro.co.uk DISTRIBUTOR

DISTRIBUTOR

To order copies of BikeBiz Bible or ensure inclusion in the 2011 edition please contact Gemma.Messina@intentmedia.co.uk

EVENTS AND EDITORIAL PLANNER

Editorial Planner

UPCOMING EVENTS

SPOTLIGHT

BIKEBIZ AWARDS

Wednesday October 6th Sway Bar, London

November 2010 STOCKING FILLERS: GIFTS UNDER £20 TRAILER AND TRAILER BIKES CYCLE SHOW REVIEW BIKEBIZ AWARDS Editorial Deadline: October 8th

Advertising Deadline: October 13th

To advertise call Carly Bailey on +44 (0) 1992 535647, or email her at carly.bailey@intentmedia.co.uk For editorial contact Jonathon Harker on +44 (0) 1992 535646, or email him at jonathon.harker@intentmedia.co.uk

DECEMBER 2010 Review of the Year Retail Survey Core Bike Preview P&A: Wheels, Tyres, Inner Tubes and Pumps Editorial Deadline: Nov 5th Advertising Deadline: Nov 10th

JANUARY 2011 Workshop: Cleaning, Tools and Training Core Bike Special Editorial Deadline: TBC Advertising Deadline: TBC

FEBRUARY 2011 Cycle Safety Frames and Forks Editorial Deadline: TBC Advertising Deadline: TBC

MARCH 2011 Cycle Media Analysis: Mags and Websites Electric Bikes Editorial Deadline: TBC Advertising Deadline: TBC

APRIL 2011 Bike Security Cycle Fashion: Clothing, Sunglasses, Watches and Accessories UK’s Top 20 IBDs Editorial Deadline: TBC Advertising Deadline: TBC

MAY 2011 Energy and Nutrition, Bottles and Cages Women: Bikes, Clothing and Accessories Editorial Deadline: TBC Advertising Deadline: TBC

THE BIBLE IS BACK! 82 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER

Carly.Bailey@intentmedia.co.uk

October 2010 BROMPTON WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP 2010 Sunday October 3rd Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire www.brompton.co.uk INTERMOT 2010, MOTORCYCLE AND BIKE FAIR Wednesday Oct 6th – 10th Cologne, Germany www.intermot-cologne.com BIKEBIZ AWARDS 2010 Wednesday October 6th Sway Bar, Great Queen Street, London Carly.Bailey@ intentmedia.co.uk HOTLINES DEALER SHOW Wednesday October 6th – 9th Brick Lane, London www.hotlines-uk.com CYCLE SHOW 2010 Thursday October 7th – 10th Earls Court, London www.cycleshow.co.uk BIKE BRNO, INTERNATIONAL BICYCLE TRADE SHOW Thursday October 7th – 10th Brno, Czech Republic www.bvv.cz/bikebrno-gb X IN THE CITY Friday October 22nd – 24th ExCeL Centre, London www.xinthecity.co.uk

S 2010 AWARD

November 2010 EICMA, BICYCLE AND MOTORCYCLE EXHIBITION Tuesday November 2nd – 7th Milan www.eicma.it

December 2010 TAICHUNG BIKE WEEK 2010 Saturday December 4th – 8th Taichung, Taiwan taichung-bike-week.com

January 2011 LONDON BIKE SHOW Thursday January 13th – 16th ExCeL Centre www.outdoorsshowextra.co. uk/the-london-bike-show CORE BIKE 2011 Sunday January 30th – Feb 1st Whittlebury Hall, Northants www.corebike.co.uk

For more cycle trade dates: www.bikebiz.com/events

For additional copies please contact: Lindsay.Banham@intentmedia.co.uk BIKEBIZ.COM

BIKEBIZ MARKETPLACE TO ADVERTISE IN THESE PAGES PLEASE CALL CARLY BAILEY ON 01992 535647

The BikeBiz Marketplace offers a complete marketing package of print, online and editorial visibility, allowing companies the opportunity to maintain contact with readers each month without the associated cost of full display advertising.

The BikeBiz Marketplace, and its associated online version, has been designed to offer readers a directory of all products and services in the bike trade.

The standard package includes: A quarter page advert in each issue Regular editorial coverage in the dedicated column Company details listed in the online directory with web link Company details listed in the BikeBiz Marketplace Contacts To get your company featured here contact: Carly Bailey on 01992 535647 or

Your presence in this section ensures that your company’s details are easily found, keeping you one step ahead of your competitors.

carly.bailey@intentmedia.co.uk Marketplace Rates: Quarter Page £175 (minimum six months)

BIKEBIZ MARKETPLACE CONTACTS BIKES AND ACCESSORIES

LIGHTING

Madison

01908 326 000

www.madisonb2b.co.uk

Paligap

01454 313 116

www.paligapltd.co.uk

01652 660 000

www.weldtite.co.uk

BMX PARTS & ACCESSORIES Seventies

0845 310 3670

www.seventies.co.uk

Bob Elliot & Co Ltd

01772 459 887

www.bob-elliot.co.uk

Pace cycles Ltd

01723 867 919

www.pacecycles.com

USE Ltd

01798 344 477

www.use1.com

COMPONENTS

01482 224007

peter.dobbs@artyfaxltd.co.uk

EPOS Abacus

0151 342 9799

www.abacusonline.net

Citrus Lime

0845 603 9254

www.citrus-retail.com

Evopos

0845 644 9424

www.evopos.com

BIKEBIZ.COM

www.exposurelights.com

Lumicycle

0870 757 2229

www.lumicycle.com

Pendle

01282 699 555

www.pendle-bike.co.uk

Maxx Raxx

0845 2303 799

www.maxxraxx.co.uk

0117 972 4730

www.argoscycles.com

0844 811 2001

www.2pure.co.uk

0207 6082577

www.cycle-systems-academy.co.uk

Bottle Sport

0845 602 9267

www.bottlesport.com

Wildoo Ltd

08709 771 550

www.wildoo.co.uk

RESPRAYS & REPAIRS Argos REPAIRS & STORAGE 2pure TRAINING SERVICES Cycle Systems Academy

DESIGN & PRINT SERVICES Peter Dobbs

01798 344 477

RACKS

BIKE MAINTENANCE Weldtite

Exposure Lights

WATER BOTTLES

WEBSITE SERVICES I-Bikeshop.com

01709 511766

www.I-bikeshop.com

SimpleEshop

0116 267 5145

www.simpleeshop.com

BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 83

BIKEBIZ MARKETPLACE

COMPANY PROFILE GRANT HADWIN PROJECT CONSULTANT, CITRUS-LIME Can you give us a brief history of Citrus-Lime?

Citrus-Lime was started by the three directors of the company over 10 years ago as a web design business, but provided infrastructure and support to local businesses. Many of these retailers were in the outdoor sector. We grew into offering an e-commerce service alongside the hardware, software and support services we were already offering. As the directors are keen cyclists, walkers and climbers we focused on providing a professional platform for independent outdoor and cycle retailers.

Once established as a retail vendor and with a lot of active cyclists within Citrus-Lime and experience with dealing with cycling retailers, we decided to target the bike market by developing a number of bike specific add-ons.

How does Citrus-Lime help support cycle retailers’ offering?

Our cycle specific modules include the Bike Workshop and Supplier Integration modules. These provide tools to make operating a cycle shop more professional and profitable, whilst allowing the cycle

TEL: 0845 603 9254 WEB: www.citrus-retail.com

retailer to explore the ecommerce marketplace using a platform which can scale to hundreds of orders a day.

And how many dealers are you working with at the moment?

Citrus-Lime is currently working with over 35 bike retailers, including Giant UK’s franchise stores.

How is it going with Giant?

The relationship we have with Giant and the franchise stores is very good, allowing us to develop a number of modules and build the Supplier Integration with Giant. By working in conjunction with the Giant management team we’ve been able to integrate Giant’s B2B platform in a manner which provides significant productivity benefits to the retailer. Functionality such as fully automatic replenishment, live stock check and fully managed EPOS data which makes the commercial benefits of EPOS easier to achieve.

Citrus-Lime is a Core Bike regular now – how important is it to get face-toface with bike dealers?

BIKES AND ACCESSORIES

84 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER

EMAIL: Grant@citruslime.com

It is absolutely imperative that we gain face-to-face time with bike retailers and we have an outlet to showcase our new developments. The people and the atmosphere at Core Bike make the exhibition a real joy but also we have found it to be massively effective in getting our own brand out there.

What does Citrus-Lime have over its EPOS competitors?

Citrus-Lime is fully committed to the bike market and genuinely interested in helping the small-to-medium sized retailers gain sales and have the tools to compete with other retailers. The full solution that Citrus-Lime offers covers a massively comprehensive suite of software which we believe is the fullest for any EPOS company working in the bike specific market at this time.

What’s next for Citrus-Lime?

Citrus-Lime will continue to work in the bike market, developing more modules to help retailers achieve their goals. We will do this by listening to feedback and gain more experience by working with more retailers.

“Citrus-Lime will continue to develop more modules to help bike retailers achieve their goals.”

Grant Hadwin

BIKES AND ACCESSORIES

BIKEBIZ.COM

BIKEBIZ MARKETPLACE BIKE MAINTENANCE

COMPONENTS

BIKEBIZ.COM

BMX PARTS AND ACCESSORIES

COMPONENTS

BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 85

BIKEBIZ MARKETPLACE

86 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER

COMPONENTS

DESIGN AND PRINT SERVICES

EPOS

EPOS

BIKEBIZ.COM

BIKEBIZ MARKETPLACE

BIKEBIZ.COM

EPOS

LIGHTING

LIGHTING

RACKS

BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 87

BIKEBIZ MARKETPLACE RACKS

RESPRAYS & REPAIRS

REPAIRS & STORAGE

TRAINING SERVICES

88 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER

BIKEBIZ.COM

BIKEBIZ MARKETPLACE

BIKEBIZ.COM

WATER BOTTLES

WATER BOTTLES

WEBSITE SERVICES

WEBSITE SERVICES

BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 89

OFF THE RECORD

I N THE SADDLE

Joe Woodburn, Seventies Warranty and Joe-Tek Founder

Let’s get statistical…

This month BikeBiz reveals the amount SRAM donated to the Spanish Cycling Associations, the record breaking number who took part in London’s Sky Ride and the number of States in North America who are forcing minors to wear protective headgear. Meanwhile, ACTSmart’s data highlights an exceptional August for growth rates...

€50,000: SRAM’s donation to the Spanish Cycling Associations, set to be spent on supporting cycle infrastructure development in 30 cities in the country, including Barcelona, Zaragoza and Seville.

What bikes do you own and where’s your favourite place to ride?

I own a prototype Federal Lacey BMX, which is the best build I’ve ridden. It’s too hard to pick a favourite place to ride, but I’m a big fan of Brian’s Yard in Henfield, which was the first mini-ramp we built back in the day. There’s also the ‘Unit’, which is the new ramp room we built at Seventies. Roger’s Trails in Hastings is our local mud-hump-jumping, BBQ spot in the woods and is always a laugh.

Rampworx Skatepark in Liverpool is one of the best indoor parks, in my opinion.

Tell us about your role at Seventies: I deal with UK warranty for all the brands that Seventies distributes. I’m also the Backyard shop keeper, resident forklift trucker, first aider, ramp builder, spray painter, general mechanic and wheel builder to the stars.

You have a sideline business, Joe-Tek, what does it offer?

I have a website, Joe-tek.co.uk, to showcase my custom painting. I have always painted in my spare time and I like using an airbrush and spray-cans. I think I may be addicted to the fumes.

Is the business limited to just customising saddles?

I will pretty much paint anything spray will stick to. Recently I have specialised in custom seats, but also like doing frames, forks, bars, shoes, caps, skateboards, helmets, walls and canvases.

Can anyone place orders for custom painted parts?

Yes, I take orders for custom stuff via email Joe@Joetek.co.uk or via my Facebook account. If it’s a good idea I’m always into getting it done, but it’s not an overnight thing.

I’ve got a bit of a waiting list and, to be honest, I’ve been really busy this summer. As winter is upon us I will be back at the drawing board very soon.

You’ve just done artwork for DUB BMX, how did this come about?

I’ve been working with DUB BMX on some colab T-shirts this year. We’ve got more tees, seats and some other sickening stuff in the pipeline and available through Seventies on the way soon. Thanks go out to Jack-Dub for that link-up. For more info make sure you check out www.dubbmx.com.

What’s the biggest rush achievable on a bike?

It’s always a buzz learning and landing new tricks. For me, the biggest rush is tearing through city centre traffic with a few mates doing wheelies and skids. A long manual past a yellow-vested roadie is also always quite satisfying.

90 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER

94%: The number of Blyth residents who believe walking and cycling to work would be better for their health. Over 60 per cent of the same group, surveyed by Sustrans, disagreed that walking and cycling should be the main way people get to work everyday.

41,482: The number of trade visitors attending this year’s Eurobike, smashing last year’s total of 39,152. Those attendees came from 102 countries.

20: Corratec celebrated two decades in the bike biz at Eurobike last month.

BIKEBIZ.COM

OFF THE RECORD ActSmart August retail shop sales analysis

22: The number of States in North America that have legislation forcing children to wear helmets while cycling.

None of those have laws governing helmet use for cyclists over the age of 17.

August shows record growth for retail sales ActSmart produces monthly research for ACT derived from around 350 retail shop fronts throughout the UK. In this exclusive report for BikeBiz we analyse a stunning August, where overall retail sales volumes exceeded July’s and the specialist sector reported a sales increase of over 19 per cent above August 2009...

Specialist cycle retailer core sales growth vs. previous year

30

85,000: The record breaking number of participants in this year’s Mayor of London Sky Ride. The organisers claim that the total makes it the largest mass participation bike event to ever take place in the UK.

£48 million: The amount that the summer’s London Underground strikes have been estimated to cost small businesses, according to the London Chamber of Commerce. The industrial action led commuters to turn to bikes to get around the capital.

‘% turnover growth vs. previous year'

25 20 15 10 5 0 -5

2009 Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

2010 May

Jun

July

Aug

-10 -15 -20 September 2009 – August 2010

2010 HAS BEEN a rollercoaster year for cycle retail sales. The only consistent trend appears to be that monthly growth rates alternate between ‘good’ and ‘disappointing’ and after a weak July, August was truly exceptional.

Core like-for-like sales grew by 19.2 per cent versus August 2009 and overall volumes increased on July – for the first time ever on our records – by four per cent.

Despite it being the coldest August in 30 years, with Government spending cuts beginning to impact upon over 20 per cent of the population employed in the public sector, cycle sales soared.

With UK holiday parks reporting record sales, August saw a boom in family cycling, with many new bicycle purchases strapped to cars and caravans for UK ‘staycations’.

Some 70 per cent of retailers reported sales growth in the month, with 45 per cent reporting increases in excess of 20 per cent

versus August 2009. These businesses recorded a combined sales increase of over 50 per cent in August.

June to August has seen a ten per cent increase in like-for-like core sales in the specialist sector, excluding cycle finance and cycle to work sales. With price inflation now adding to the mix, we are forecasting continued specialist sector sales growth until the end of 2010.

For more info visit: http://cycles.actsmart.biz/news/ ActSmart: 0845 6187256 BIKEBIZ.COM

BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 91

OFF THE RECORD

OFF

k c a r T

• madison reveals genesis 2011

Revolting celebrities

In the beginning…

MADISON showcased the Genesis brand at uber trendy café-bar-cumcycle workshop, Look Mum No Hands, earlier in the summer.

The main attraction on the day was a collaboration between Genesis and London-based All City Creative.

The All City Creative x Genesis Flyer is loosely based on the long-standing Genesis Flyer model, sticking with the Reynolds 520 tubed frameset. Limited to a mere 100 pieces across the size range, with each bike individually numbered, the new bang-up-to-date version of the Flyer features rider bars and some other key upgrades.

Xx

High Flyer: Madison showed off the brand at seriously trendy cafe Look Mum No Hands

Kids Scoop product in BMX jam ESSEX COUNTY, alongside sponsors Groove BMX in Harlow and Letchworth Distributor Scoop put on a BMX and time trial jam last month, putting on the first “SX Games”.

Newcomer Mason Smith took the youth competition win, while Luke ‘car meet’ Baker took time out from ragging his tired Ford Fiesta to take the main competition win with a clean 720 and a failed 900 attempt. Stick to the bike, Luke.

Postcompetition a dancefloor laid out in front of the DJ turned into a flatland BMX demonstration with Harlow local Brian Black showing the ‘footjam generation’ some real flatland trickery with a Cherrypicker (pictured).

92 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER

NOT CONTENT with having one of the most PR-orientated politicians in living memory, Transport for London enlisted the help of two famous Londoners – Fife’s Edith Bowman and er, Colchester’s Dermot O’Leary – to back Boris Johnson’s self-styled cycle revolution earlier this summer.

Through the medium of film Radio DJ Bowman and X-Factor presenter O’Leary appeared in short videos highlighting the pleasures of cycling in the capital, while also showcasing the recently launched Barclays Cycle Hire and Superhighways.

You can find the films at www.YouTube.com/trans portforlondon, with a sixth film opening in cinemas featuring the Bike Song by producer and DJ Mark Ronson.

Edith Bowman and Dermot O’Leary (above) are promoting cycling in London

Bell goes on ninecountry tour

The first SX Games event was sponsored

by Groove BMX and Scoop

WHILE much of the trade migrated to Germany at the start of September for Eurobike, Highpath Engineering’s Chris Bell went one step further and, in the name of charity, visited nine countries on the continent by bicycle.

Shutting down Highpath Engineering for two months, Bell rode his customised Dahon Cadenza to raise cash and awareness for the Prostate Cancer Charity.

Bell himself has prostate cancer, but that didn’t deter him from embarking on

Chris Bell cycled across no fewer than nine countries for charity

the journey that will see him pedal over 2,000 miles across seven weeks, through Greece, Albania, Montenegro, Croatia, Slovenia, Italy, Switzerland, Germany, France and the UK. You can donate on www.justgiving.com/chrisbell-2000

BIKEBIZ.COM

OFF THE RECORD

Send your pictures to mark.sutton@intentmedia.co.uk

• edith & dermot promote london cycling • fisher unveils kansi

Kansi unfolds to London press FISHER Outdoor Leisure held a ‘birth day’ event for its new folding bike brand Kansi in front of London media types at Look Mum No Hands. A wide range of titles from the cycle and non-cycle media world got chance to try out the bikes and give feedback, which was very positive, according to Fisher’s Kansi brand manager Martin Hawyes: “Whilst the cycle media have seen the bikes

before, the non cycle media hadn't and they were all really impressed at the Fisher launched range.” A new website launched at the Kansi folders the event too, informing at a London customers about the range and press event where to buy – find out more at www.kansi.co.uk.

Xx

29er presented to Bush…

NINER BIKES co-founders Chris Sugai and Steve Domahidy spent an August morning delivering and fitting a Niner Jet 9 full suspension bike for Former President George W. Bush, with assistance from local Niner dealer Kennebunkport Bicycle Company.

“Most of Peloton 1, Mr. Bush’s regular mountain bike crew, is on 29inch wheels and he wanted to check them out. He asked Brandon Gillard, owner of the Kennebunkport Bicycle Company and Peloton 1 rider, if he could try a Niner. Brandon called us

quote

unquote "The city has prioritised cars for so many years, so I think if you start taking away space from motor vehicles and start giving it to other modes of transport, that's going to start sending a message out to people that they can use alternatives."

LA County Bicycle Coalition's Aurisha Smolarski commenting on the LA Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa-led bike summit, August 24th “I feel an idiot not to have security marked my bike before. Having lost two

BIKEBIZ.COM

seriously good bikes in a year, I shall most definitely be security marking my next bike."

CTC president Jon Snow, commenting on TfL’s drive to get cyclists to security mark their bikes, August 26th "It's an important race for me. I didn't know what to do [about the races] because it takes a while to set up a bike. I have managed to borrow a bike but don't know how I will fare."

Bruce Wallace, former junior cycle champ, speaking to the Edinburgh Evening News after

and of course we were stoked for the opportunity,” said Sugai. “It is really hard to believe that just a few years ago we were showing our first frame at Sea Otter and now we are riding with a former President of the United States.”

Bush, Sugai, Domahidy and the rest of the Peloton 1 crew (as well as a full complement of Secret Service agents) went for a ride on the crew’s usual morning loop.

“Mr. Bush is really fast,” said Domahidy. ”He's a very good technical rider, too.”

Sponsored by the brands of Moore Large 01332 274252 the theft of his £4,000 bike, days before he was due to compete in the Scottish Criterium Championships, August 26th “The police had told me to ring 999 if I ever saw my bike again so I did exactly what the officer had said. I gave an operator a description of the young man with it and was told not to approach him but to wait for the police to arrive.

“But the operator insisted that the police would be there any minute.

Cycle theft is a key topic

For 15 minutes I kept the operator updated on where they were, but lost sight of the group.

My emergency call was effectively ignored. I am so angry I intend to make a formal complaint to Dorset Police.

“It makes me mad because the bike is worth £900 and I came so close to being reunited with it. Now it’s lost again.”

Disgruntled bike theft victim Grant Mather on coming frustratingly close to getting his bike back, speaking to the Bournemouth Echo, August 26th

BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 93

OFF THE RECORD

short and

TWEET

SPOKES

Wondering what the Twitterati have been up to this month? Look no further...

After a boom, comes bust The e-bike sector is buzzing, but Carlton Reid advises caution. Again.

AS EXPECTED, Eurobike was awash with e-bikes. Some were tatty; some were bonkers; some were rather nice.

The e-bikes from BionX, Storck and Cannondale were in the latter category. The Zeppelin Hall contained plenty in the former categories: cheap Chinese bikes that can't venture out when it's raining, through to solar-powered e-bikes with canopies covered in solar panels (great, except for the fact the rider has to squint to see through the panels).

The 'good e-bikes' risk being tainted by the 'bad ebikes'. Eurobike can't police these matters but the market will.

Remember the BMX boom and crash? I’ll wager there is another one coming, and it'll be powered by lithium ion.

There are now too many e-bike companies; too many corners being cut; not enough customers.

The e-bike market is growing at 25 per cent per year across much of the EU, but this growth is from a low base so the percentage growth sounds an awful lot more impressive than the bald numbers.

Total sales for e-bikes in Europe in 2010 is predicted to be 600,000 units. In the grand scheme of things that's not a lot. It's just four per cent of the total EU bike market.

Of course, e-bikes are touted as excellent for the bike trade because they cost a lot. But that's not where success is supposed to come from; it's supposed to come from mass-market appeal. And cheap e-bikes are going to be a nightmare.

Will they ship to IBDs with the right diagnostic tools, (CAN-bus and USB controlled maybe) or will the sales person say “don't worry about tech problems, we'll just ship you a new battery/control unit”? IBDs are right to be wary about this new 'wonder market'. Potentially, there are big risks to go along with the big gains.

There are also an awful lot of e-bike cowboys out there still. Many could be heard at Eurobike, batting away concerns about EU e-bike regulations, boasting a simple flick of a switch could turn their pedal-assisted ebike into a throttle-only scooter.

A wink and a knowing smile might do the trick at a trade show, but isn't much of a defence when Little Johnny gets squashed by a juggernaut after he pressed the wrong switch.

The stance on regulations taken by official bodies isn't much better. Bicycle organisations which ought to know better want the EU to raise the allowed wattage on e-bikes and increase speed. This has the potential to wreck the whole sector, although many e-bike companies think more powerful e-bikes will boost business.

250watt, 25kph pedal-assisted e-bikes have a place in the market. Anything bigger and faster than this is straying too far into scooter territory. Many e-bike companies want you to join them, surfing the crest of the electric bike wave. But, don't forget, waves come crashing down.

EDITORIAL: 01992 535646 | ADVERTISING: 01992 535647 | FAX: 01992 535648

Negotiations with Barclays over sponsorship of London cycle infrastructure did not begin until March 2010. thebikeshow Good old @MayorOfLondon!

Boris chided Transport Secretary for 'cyclists don't pay road tax' gaffe.

CarltonReid @animal_bikes should take their team on a trip around the world and call the video Animal Planet.

Nuno__Oliveira There were plenty of hardcore electric downhill bikes at Eurobike this year. But why? Because they can...

DecadeBikes Bollocks. Just jizzed all over the silk rug in the living room.

A tubeless sealant accident, obviously...

GreatRock

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