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B U S I N E S S
OCTOBER 2015
ISSUE 117
ISSUE 117 OCTOBER 2015
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p33 Stuck in the Midlands with you The Midlands was a former hotbed for the cycle industry, but what’s the future for the trade in the region?
T H E
B I K E
B U S I N E S S
p17 Show business
p45 The Portas principles
The exhibitors, the highlights…get thee to our Cycle Show guide to plan ahead for the big show at the NEC
Think your shop could learn a thing or two from one of TVs best-known retail gurus? Then Zyro’s Cycle Vision Show can help
Strength in numbers There’s a new trend of clustering afoot in the bike business, whether that’s the new indoor MTB park Dirt Factory (p49) or Shimano-land and BikeVille in Europe (p6). So why doesn’t the bike trade come together for one in England?
p82
p41 Moore Moore Moore
p62 Thumping good rides
p27 The chic of it
p59 Room with a queue
The latest from Forme, Moda, Cuda, and – er – more (Large)
Still the sector setting consumer pulses race, we look at the road
We grab 20 minutes with family business head Monica Santini
We head to Regent Street’s very popular Bike Rooms
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NEWS
CSG makes Merry EDITOR’S with promotion COMMENT There’s been a flurry of personnel moves at a global and local level of the cycle industry this month…
POOLE’S OWN Russell Merry has been Sinyard being the other director. Jen promoted to senior vice president and Capasso, global marketing general manager for Dorel’s Cycling communications for Specialized, said: Sports Group in North America and the “Our managing director is on a personal UK. Dorel is headquartered in Canada; leave of absence, and while he is on the Cycling Sports Group operates from leave still remains the managing director Wilton, Connecticut, and owns brands of Specialized UK.” such as GT, Schwinn and Cannondale. In the same month that Madison and CSG also owns Charge and Fabric. Sportline became Living Wage In his new role, trade veteran Merry accredited, so now everyone working at will lead the Cycling Sports Group North the companies (and Leeda), regardless America business. He will report to Peter of whether they are permanent Woods, president and CEO of Dorel employees or third-party contractors Sports, who said: “I’m thrilled to have and suppliers receive a minimum hourly Russell take wage of £7.85 leadership – significantly responsibility of higher than the “We have a tremendous our CSG North national opportunity in North America business. minimum wage America with our dealers.” of £6.50. Under Russell’s leadership we will Elsewhere in Russell Merry, CSG invest in the trade, Tony improvements in Rose joined supply chain, distributor i-ride logistics, technology infrastructure and as area sales representative, primarily marketing to become a more effective looking after the south west of England partner to our retailers.” and Wales region for the distributor. Merry said: “The North America IBD Rose has over 25 years experience in the and key account channels are critical for bike industry covering retail sales, CSG, and we have tremendous distribution sales management and opportunity to be a great partner with brand development. our dealers and customers there.” Cycle Republic has promoted Matt Richard Hemington, Specialized UK Rudd to the position of area manager to managing director since 1989, is no assist MD Peter Kimberley in developing longer in day-to-day charge of the the growth strategy of the store group. company. Hemington is a co-director of Finally, the UK branch of SCOTT Sports the UK company that distributes the US has recruited Russ Masters to become brand, with Specialized founder Mike their new Midlands area sales manager.
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PEAK SCEPTICISM CYNICISM IS a quality that we tend to prize, which is lucky as there’s plenty of it about in the bicycle trade. Without doubt, wild claims – that x frame is lighter than oxygen – should not be taken at face value without background information and statistics to back them up. Perhaps the trade has seen so many claims and puff pieces over the years that cynicism has got the better of it. And I’m all for scepticism, broadly speaking. However it should be applied with care. Occasionally there is a bit of news that, I’d argue, should be wholeheartedly welcomed. News like Madison and Sportline announcing it is to pay its permanent employees, third-party contractors and suppliers the living wage is one such piece of news that deserves to be embraced. While not the first to do so – Brompton and Islabikes are two notable names that spring to mind – the move by Madison and Sportline is significant and big news for the many bike traders that work for the companies. Some have been quick to say there’s no need for companies to ‘blow their own trumpet’ about paying the living wage, but I’d disagree. The more we hear about more companies doing so will lead other firms to think long and hard about whether they can do the same, to the benefit of dozens, maybe hundreds or more staff. It’s all very well to wag our fingers at certain big name retailers that don’t pay much over the minimum wage, but if you’re going to do that and go on to complain about those companies that announce they’ll pay the living wage then maybe it’s time to park the cynicism and celebrate some good news for a change. jharker@nbmedia.com
BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 5
NEWS
Ridley, Lazer and BioRacer unite for BikeVille
Shimano-land doors set to open in 2017 CONSTRUCTION WORK is now well underway on BikeVille in Paal, Belgium. BikeVille – also known as the Flanders Bike Valley – is an innovation centre and cluster of bike firms including Lazer, Ridley, aerodynamics specialist Voxdale and cycle apparel firm BioRacer. The external walls on the Flanders Bike Valley have now been completed. They’ll contain a business “incubator” with 25 SME cycle firms involved, including start-ups. The 2,400m2 plot will also feature a wind tunnel, concept stores, bike fit facilities, a restaurant and more. Taiwan’s Velocite became BikeVille’s first intercontinental member. The firm will start a European branch as part of its R&D and commercial activities at
BikeVille’s incubator, where it will also use the wind tunnel test facilities. Victor Major, CEO Velocite: “Joining the Flanders Bicycle Valley is of great strategic benefit to Velocite as it enhances both our R&D capabilities and improves market access to the important European markets. Having the resources close at hand, and with a location in one of the main cycling hubs in Europe (Belgium) will allow us to grow our business at an accelerated pace. We are delighted to be part of this unique opportunity.” Lazer’s R&D manager Guy De Bruyne is scientific director for BikeVille and the co-founders are Bert Celis and Marc Hufkens. Read ‘Why there isn’t an English BikeVille?’ on p82.
VALKENBUGH IN the Netherlands is to host the Shimano Experience Center, Shimano Europe has revealed. The company will turn a former brewery site in the Netherlands into the Shimano multi-activity centre, which will open in 2017 and will allow visitors to take part in Shimano-equipped cycling, fishing and rowing activities. The site houses the Leeuw brewery which closed in 2006. The historic building, a brewery since the 1880s, was formerly a gunpowder Gerrit Middag, factory. A statement from Shimano Europe said: “The concept underpinning Shimano’s Experience Centre is a journey of social and product experience moments, helping visitors engage in a fusion of interaction and function. “Each area will be presented as a sensorial experience, encouraging guests to move, feel and live the
Shimano moment.” There will be indoor virtual reality displays as well as outdoor test tracks and fishing areas. There will also be a café and a museum. Valkenburg is the location for the Amstel Gold pro cycling race. “The opportunity to create Shimano’s new experience centre in an area with such a rich cycling history is incredibly exciting,” said Gerrit Middag, Shimano Europe Business Development Manager. He added: Shimano “We expect the site to draw cycling, fishing and rowing fans from around the world and be of tremendous benefit to the sporting industry in the region.” Also on site will be an Amstel Gold Race XP centre and hotel with 60 or so rooms. Other partners on the site are sports and medical professionals and a bike rental company.
“We expect the site to draw fans from around the world.”
THIS MONTH WE ASK THE BIKEBIZ TEAM: Where are you on deadline week for this month’s magazine? Executive Editor: Carlton Reid carltonreid@mac.com Editor: Jonathon Harker jharker@nbmedia.com Answer: In the office, UK Production Executive: Elizabeth Parker eparker@nbmedia.com
Deputy Editor: Mark Sutton msutton@nbmedia.com Answer: At Interbike, USA
Account Manager: Richard Setters rsetters@nbmedia.com Answer: On holiday, Europe
Design: Dan Bennett dbennett@nbmedia.com Answer: In the office, UK
Publisher: Mark Burton mburton@nbmedia.com
Marketing & Circulation bike.subscriptions@c-cms.com Editorial: Saxon House, 6A, St. Andrew Street, Hertford, Hertfordshire. SG14 1JA BikeBiz is mailed FOC to 4,000+ trade addresses every month ISSN 1476-1505
© NewBay Media 2015 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording or any information storage or retrieval system without the express prior written consent of the publisher. The contents of BikeBiz are subject to reproduction in information storage and retrieval systems. Printed by Pensord.
6 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER
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Will Wales spurn chance to become an off-road haven? “I don’t think we can over-exaggerate what an amazing opportunity for mountain biking this is” THOSE WITH an interest in MTBs have been urged to join the calls to turn Wales into an off-road haven. The Welsh Government has proposed to adopt similar rules to countryside access as those in Scotland. The government is running a consultation on the proposal “Improving opportunities to access the outdoors for responsible recreation” until October 2nd. CTC Cymru, Open MTB, Welsh Cycling and British Cycling have joined together to praise the move and urge the trade and off-road fans to join the Trails for Wales campaign. Currently in Wales the Rights of Way system is based on recorded historic use of routes instead of suitability. As a result, cyclists have rights to use just 21 per cent of the network, with permission to ride along narrow rocky sheep tracks on steep ground but denied access to thousands of miles of public footpaths lying on metalled farm and forest roads. Scotland’s Land Reform Act 2003 has helped the country become an
“We urge all off-road enthusiasts to add their voice to this campaign.” Tom Hutton, Open MTB off-road hotspot. Scotland now enjoys ‘presumed access’ so there is a presumption of “responsible access”, subject to exemptions laid out in the Outdoor Access Code (eg forestry operations). Now Scottish off-road and leisure cycle tourism are booming and contribute between £236.2m and £358m per annum.
Research indicates outdoor activity in Wales contributes almost ten per cent of the Welsh tourist economy. The group argues that changing access in Wales could dramatically boost this, with social, transport, leisure and health benefits for locals and visitors. Tom Hutton, Snowdonia-based MTB journalist and guide, speaking
on behalf of Open MTB said: “I don’t think we can exaggerate what an amazing opportunity for mountain biking this is. A change in access laws in Wales could potentially open 1,000s of km of currently out of bounds trails. “It would put Wales back up there with Scotland as one of the best off-road destinations in the world, and at the same time, would increase take up of the sport and local participation. It would also potentially pave the way for future changes in England. “We urge all off-road enthusiasts, in England as well as Wales, to add their voice to our joint Trail for Wales campaign.” Gwenda Owen of CTC Cymru added: “This green paper provides another opportunity to realise the ambition of the First Minister Carwyn Jones to make Wales a cycling nation. I recommend everyone with a passion for the outdoors to show their support for our joint campaign, Trails for Wales.” Find out more at ctc.org. uk/campaign/trails-wales
Boardman: “It’s ludicrous that we have to campaign for cycling” THE STRAIGHT talking Chris Boardman MBE was characteristically direct in his appraisal of the cycle lobby’s current plight. Boardman spoke of his frustration at the government’s response – or lack of it – to cycle advocates. The ex-pro rider spoke to BikeBiz while plugging the Aviva Tour of Britain in his role as ambassador for the Tour. “I’m concerned now. I am waiting for a response from the Treasury and the Department for Transport after inviting them to spend 48 hours with me visiting somewhere BIKEBIZ.COM
like Utrecht, just a few hundred miles away and seeing how they’ve done it. Then after that they can decide if cycling infrastructure is good value for money and what isn’t. But I’m still waiting for replies. It’s very annoying. “I like to think I’m quite a logical guy, but the more I think about it the more incensed I get that we have to qualify and campaign for cycling. It is ludicrous. It’s not difficult to see why we have to get behind cycling.” On the topic of the Aviva Tour of Britain, he praised its growing reputation in the pro race calendar. BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 7
EUROBIKE
Cutting a dash: Eurobike’s fashion show draws a crowd
Euro stars
45,870 cycling industry people made the journey to Friedrichshafen this year, meaning busy aisles is an understatement. A further 1,766 journalists swam against the tide. Mark Sutton recaps on the products and innovations that were not to be missed from this year’s international show… Q ROTOR Oval chainring specialist Rotor gave crowds a first look at the fruits of its partnership with Magura at Eurobike, revealing the Uno hydraulic groupset. Speaking to BikeBiz, Arthur Espos of Rotor’s marketing said: “It’s the first on the market to offer hydraulic actuation of shifting and braking all in one groupset. It’s an 100 per cent closed system, so oil and cable changes aren’t required. It’s an incredibly precise system that offers multiple shifting positions, low maintenance and is free from batteries.” It’s designed light too, with the in-house CNC machined 11-28 cassette coming in under 150 grams, making it among the lightest mass production unit available in that ratio. 8 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER
When it comes to the stoppers, Uno will offer both a hydraulic rim or disc brake option, both of which will operate independently of the shifting and will be based around a typical open system with a piston and reservoir. Meanwhile, the drivetrain is a closed unit that will supply oil
push of the lever. Up shifts offer just the one with a gentle tap. We were able to get used to the demo unit at Eurobike quite quickly, but the system is tuneable so that rider’s can dial in their preferences. Rotor has conceded that the development of these new territories came about as a result of
“The Uno groupset is an incredibly precise system.” through a cylinder at the derailleur, while a counter spring shifts in the opposite direction. Interestingly, riders will be able to drop down up to four gears at once with one full
sponsorship pressures, with teams using their famed sprockets, but finishing the drivetrain with other cranksets and drivetrains. With this new high-end group Rotor hopes
to further enhance its reputation in pro cycling. After six years in development, the system will enter full production in Spring 2016. Rotor will have samples on its stand at the Cycle Show later in October. Pricing is yet to be confirmed, we’re told. Q MAGURA You may have spotted by now that Magura debuted a new take on dropper posts at Eurobike, introducing the eLect. With everything else on modern bicycles going digital, the eLect uses ANT+ wireless technology and a USB recharge port to deliver smooth continuous travel up and down action to the desired height. It’ll fit easily with no consideration needed for routing BIKEBIZ.COM
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Clockwise, starting top left: Roto’s Uno hydraulic groupset;, Magura’s eLect uses ANT+ wireless tech; Vancom’s double-ended inner tube system has won a Eurobike and Taipei Show Award; Cobi’s all-singing, all-dancing control system; WeMakeThings’ Bombtrack label is seeking a UK distributor to bring it to the market
wires and will deliver around 400 actuations per charge. An indicator on the handlebar-mounted remote will shine red when the post is down to its last 20 actuations. That remote controls the post’s motors that open and close the internal oil ports that control the movement. It’s very similar to the system used in the company’s eLect fork. Pairing between remote and post is achieved by holding the buttons down on each for eight seconds. At 595 grams, the 150mm post is about 60 grams heavier than the longer travel version of the Reverb, but in the same ballpark as its main competitors. Both 30.9 and 31.6mm widths are set to be available, each measuring 446mm in length. Zyro told BikeBiz: “Retail price will be £350 and we’re hoping to have stock early 2016. The post will be launched at Cycle Vision to the UK market.” BIKEBIZ.COM
Q BOMBTRACK WeMakeThings’ Bombtrack label has this month informed BikeBiz that it is very much on the lookout for a UK distributor. With an increasingly diverse portfolio, Eurobike 2015 saw the brand go beyond last year’s expansion into cyclocross and deeper into off road adventure with unique builds like the Beyond 29er (below). This Columbus steel rig prioritises function and comfort, with an own-brand fork that’s positively machine gunned with eyelets to accommodate whatever the touring off roader may need. Cyclocross riders are this year catered for with three versions of the Hook over last year’s one. This line starts with a Japanese Sanko tubed build on the Hook 1 and progresses through Columbus and 1x11 spec for the 2 and a race ready build on the 3. The latter is a serious CX weapon that cuts no
corners, with a Fabric Cell saddle, thru axles front and rear and SRAM Force 1x11 just some of the specification highlights. Also teased was a bikepacking build, comprehensively splattered in Demo Day enthusiasm. This, we’re told, is a 2017 steel project that currently sports a 2.8” tyre.
without the removal of a wheel, making it particularly handy for road races, electric bikes with fiddly motor connections, or even BMX where an extension tool for peg removal may not be handy. Vancom has product in both schrader and presta and tubes average at around $9 a piece.
Q VANCOM It’s been done before and vanished from production shortly after, but the double-ended inner tube is back and this time it’s gone and won a Eurobike Award (to sit alongside the Taipei show Award already bagged). Vancom of China has introduced its take on the design, which instead of re-looping over the valve like Fly’s system, instead opts for a end-to-end plug design. Available for wheelsizes 20-inch and upwards, Vancom’s system allows for quick tube changes
Q COBI Busy stands at Friedrichshafen are normally busy for one of two reasons – a freebie beer is being handed out, or something genuinely intriguing is being launched there. Cobi, short for connected biking, falls into the latter pool and was generating a buzz because of its new device which manages everything from automatic low light bike and brake lighting, to communication, offline GPS navigation and much, much more. Another interesting feature is the BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 11
EUROBIKE
Clockwise from top left: Giro’s Eurobike Award-winning Republic LX shoe; Crowds mull over the pros and cons of the new gear at Eurobike; Brompton’s ‘world’s first light up folding bike’ is stil at concept stage, hoping to go into production in 18 months; Montague’s clever Rackstand is another Eurobike Award winner
app’s theft alert, which will send your phone into a frenzy when the mounted sensors feel any unwanted attention on the bike. Some may be familiar with the handlebar mounted unit due to a successful kickstarter campaign and follow up production for the masses is now in full swing. The device will work with any bluetooth capable smartphone (or Apple Watch) carrying the brand’s app. What’s more, the unit will wirelessly charge your phone up to four times over on the move per battery charge and infinitely if you’ve a dynamo rigged up. Other features of the system include: A bell, on the bike social media and music access, control of the built in 45 lux (at 10 metres) lighting, sensor driven fitness records and other bike computer readings. An exchangeable battery pack (6000mAh) is also set to be available for those thinking of 12 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER
going touring. Dedicated cases for all the modern Apple phones and also for many Android units are soon to be available, with an additional universal four to six inch mount available. COBI has already signed OEM partnerships with the likes of Winora, TransX and Rotwild, among many others. The unit is expected to retail for around €79. www.cobi.bike Q GIRO Giro has pocketed another Eurobike Award, this time for the launch of its fully reflective Republic LX shoe. Much like Proviz’s sell-out Reflect product, Giro’s new shoe will fully illuminate when struck by headlights, though will remain a stylish shade of grey during daylight hours. The laced shoe offers a microsuede heel for added
comfort, with a stiff injected nylon outsole featuring a replaceable high-traction walking pad at the base of it. Q MONTAGUE Montague’s Eurobike Awardwinning Rackstand is set to feature on six of the brand’s 2016 builds as standard. Pivoting around the axle, the system rotates from luggage rack to bike stand with the release of the seatpost mounted latch. An added perk of the system is that it can be used as a workstand with which access to the drivetrain and brakes is simple. The system will also be sold as an aftermarket kit that will fit other brands of folding bike that offer 26, 27.5 or 700c folding bikes. Montague is available in the UK via 2x2 Worldwide and the aftermarket luggage rack and stand is expected to retail for around £50.
Q BROMPTON Brompton has used Eurobike to launch what it says is the world’s first light up folding bike. The firm, in the middle of relocating to a huge new facility in London from which it aims to double bike production, partnered with Darkside Scientific to produce the light up bike, which is still in the concept stage. Using a sprayable electroluminescent coated developed by Lumilor, the light activates when an electric current is passed through it. The concept version BikeBiz saw was operated via a switch in the fold of the bike. Brompton hopes to bring the light up folding bike to production within 18 months. Q TERN Introducing a number of new builds to tackle a variety of needs and budgets, Tern’s catalogue is looking BIKEBIZ.COM
EUROBIKE
Tern’s latest offerings include the Eclipse X22 and Cargo Node (top left); Thule has been hot on the details for its 2016 product introductions, including a new wheel for Velospace which also boasts a clip on tray that will enable bikes to be rolled on if lifting it going to be an issue.
increasingly comprehensive when it comes to utility and sport folders. Take the Eclipse X22, Tern now boasts that this is the world’s fastest folding bike. Rolling on hand-built 26-inch wheels, it utilises a race tuned road bike geometry that’ll pack down in ten seconds flat. Ultegra drivetrain, Shimano hydraulic brakes and Syntace components make for an impressive spec sheet. Small and cargo bike aren’t two words you’d put together, but thanks to Tern and Xtracycle, things could be about to change. Step in the Cargo Node, set to retail for €1,900. With a 65 per cent smaller footprint than your average cargo bike, the Cargo Node employs Xtracycle’s Leap Rack, yet will fold down to a flat-friendly size. Q THULE “Consumer feedback suggested to us that the front wheel tray was 14 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER
perceived as wobbly. It wasn’t, but we’ve designed that worry out now with a diagonal strap.” Thule’s Head of Product Design Eric Norling is leaving nothing up to chance. The label’s 2016 introductions pay more attention to detail than ever to the product itself and the user experience. “We’ve added a wheel to the Velospace. Though our racks are built as light as we can safely make them, they’re still an awkward shape. Getting them to and from the shed or garage tends to take more time than attaching to the towball, so we’ve added a fold out roller. We want our products to useable by a wide demographic. People have back problems, we all get old – so it’s important that we address useability for all,” says Norling. The 2016 Velospace goes further to aid the user experience too, adding a clip on tray that will enable bikes to be rolled on if
lifting is going to be an issue. Even the minor details such as wheelstrap storage is considered with fresh slots. “The Velospace was ahead of its time in 2009, but this year it’ll take up two 30kg fat electric bikes with room to spare,” says Norling. “It’ll even take a cruiser with a 1,300 wheel base. There’s a new 90-degree turn handle to improve access and as previously, the rack won’t suddenly drop when the lever’s opened, giving you time to tilt onto the fold out wheel.” The story with this year’s roof rack additions is much the same, with the best selling 591 benefitting from some drawing board love. “We’ve opened up the clamping system so the user can choose whether they prefer to mount from the right or left. It’s a simple mechanism on the base and can be rotated and locked again in under
30 seconds,” says Norling. At 11 years old and still winning product tests, the 591 is designed to be low profile, giving the user roof level interaction. A re-shaped tray sporting a curve lends itself to ease of use. The frame contact point also benefits from an upgrade, with the claw offering a softer yet larger clamp that is limited to 7NM of torque. With the rise in popularity of Thru-axles in road and cyclocross, the ThruRide is ready for all axle diameters. With a new fine tuneable dial and vice system, the ThruRide doesn’t require the user to remove the axle and balance the bike while re-inserting, instead you simply slot in and close the clamp. A 9mm QR adapter will be found in the box. Plus size wheel trends have been met head-on too, with stock of oversized wheel tray racks expected by January. An adapter for fat bikes will be available too. BIKEBIZ.COM
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CYCLE SHOW 2015
WHAT IS IT? The Cycle Show. The nation’s longest running bicycle-based exhibition.
OPENING TIMES: Thursday September 24th (trade and press only) 9.30am to 6pm Friday 25th to Sunday 27th (consumer) 9.30am to 5pm
LOCATION: Halls 10,11 & 12 NEC, Birmingham B40 1NT
FREE TRADE TICKETS VIA: www.cycleshow.co.uk/trade
Cycle Show 2015 Guide With upwards of 300 exhibitors and umpteen show features to make your way around, you’re going to need some kind of plan to tackle this year’s Cycle Show. Jonathon Harker lists some of the highlights you can expect to find together with a handy exhibitor listing to help you get around… Q BOB ELLIOT - M71 Expect to see the new Beto Combo Pump at the Bob Elliot stand, which works both as a mini pump or as a mini floor pump. FLR’s F-22 Pro Road Race Shoe is made from lightweight microfiber leather for comfort and fastened with an ATOP twist and Velcro system. Funkier will be with the Bob Elliot team too, including the J-772 Elite short sleeve jersey, featuring quick dry technology which also comes in long sleeve versions.
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Q BIKEBIZ - M69 These chancers will have a stand on the trade-only day. Pick up a copy of the latest mags, fill in a subscription form (free for the trade), grab a business card or come along to gawp at us. If we aren’t there, please leave us an angry note about who won the BikeBiz Awards the night before. Q CHICKEN CYCLEKIT - D24 Chicken’s own stand on D24 will be flanked by stands taken by its brand buddies, including Vittoria tyres, Campagnolo, Deda Elementi, Datatag, Selle Italia, Sportourer, Zefal, Ryde and Sapim. They’ll all have their own personnel, including Massimo Guariso (Campagnolo), Paolo Simionato (Selle Italia and Sportourer), Alessia Petricelli (Vittoria), Gianluca Cattaneo (Deda Elementi), Greg Maupas
(Zefal), Carl de Ruigh (Ryde), Klaus Greuter (Sapim) and Dave Luscombe (Datatag). What about product? Tifosi has two new gravel/adventure bikes. The Carbon fibre Cavazzo and the aluminium Forcella are discequipped road bikes with clearance for 35mm tyres with unique, discreet mudguard fitting systems. Deda Strada’s 2016 Atleta has a six per cent stiffer frame, without adding a weight penalty. The Supertrack track frame is available in two colours with a custom colour option. There’s new colours and custom colour options for six of the 2015 models. Cinelli’s Columbus Spirit triple-butted TIG welded steel tubes form the basis of a budget Nemo Tig bike for endurance and criterium racing cyclists. There will be components too, including Deda Elementi’s Superzero
carbon aero bar (replacing the alloy version) and the Superzero stem which has been given the aero treatment. Sapim will appear too, as will Vittoria and the Graphene Plus (G+) tyres, using a Graphene-based material that cuts rolling resistance by 12 per cent, we hear. Miche has new 11x l/w Shimano pattern cassettes, HSL chainrings and chains while Velox’s Magic Mastik is for fitting tubular tyres to carbon and alloy wheelsets, halving drying time. JetBlack’s Multi 13 function tool with Co2 canister pump will be on hand, while Specialite TA’s four arm Campagnolo chainrings will fit 2015 Chorus, Record and Super Record chainsets. Flinger’s new range of reflective side-wall 700 x 20, 25 and 32mm mudguards with a sturdy fit will be on show as will Vittoria’s new Ikon MTB shoes. Expect to find SiS at stand D24 too. BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 17
CYCLE SHOW 2015
showing off its latest lines including the new Hydrodynamic Chain Lube, created by the brand’s research team in collaboration with Team Sky. It’s formulated to lubricate chains over long distances and the harshest winter conditions. It’s ultra low friction, hydrodynamic and hydrophobic. Muc-Off also has an athlete care line, including the Amino Ultra Endurance Cream, which helps keep the body at an optimum state of performance. It uses specially advanced ‘Amino Patch’ technology to help protect muscle cells against lactate accumulation which is the main reason for exhaustion. Find out more at H45.
Foffa’s coming to Brum with the Plume, Single Speed and more
Q CITRUS-LIME The Marketing Services package have gone down a storm with Citrus-Lime’s online customers and the firm is hoping to spread the word at the NEC further still. CitrusLime’s Supplier Integration Module has teamed up with more suppliers too, including Hope and Moore Large, and will be seeking more to sign up at the show. Q RUBENA/MITAS - A7 The appearance at Cycle Show will see the brand renamed as Mitas. A big name in the motorcycle world, Mitas will absorb the Rubena cycle product range but there will be no changes to the manufacturing process, quality or product support, we’re assured. In fact the added clout of the bigger brand will see new innovations appear from the tyre label formerly called Rubena, including the Textra, an all-new dense and extremely strong rubberised fabric used in the sidewall to boost all-important puncture resistance.
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Q CUBE BIKES - A25 & A32 The Cube bike range will be on show at Booth A25, while Cube’s store will be at Booth A31. Some of the highlights to be found at the show are the new and improved Agree road bikes as well as the Stereo range, both of which have been updated for 2016. In addition, Cube will present the Two15 full-suspension bike, proudly brought back for 2016. Q DARE 2B - CITY TEST TRACK Dare2b is backing the outdoor city test track this year. The firm will be touting its ‘Brotherhood Campaign’ for S/S 2016. Dare2b brought together a team of four world class ex-pro cyclists from across Europe to form a new team, including Spanish road racer and 2006 Le Tour winner Oscar Pererio, Stephen Roche, Italian road racer Angelo Furlan and British pro road race champ of 1989 Tim Harris. Dare 2b’s whole AEP cycle range has been fitted on Oscar Pererio, using his expertise and experience to refine the collection making it fit,
work and look as refined as the professional that it has been tested on, says Dare2b. Q EVOPOS - M65 The Dealer Management Software will be a focus at Cycle Show, an all-in-one software solution for bike shops with effective telephone support, quick and easy point of sale software, comprehensive stock control, workshop organiser, hire and automated SMS and email marketing. Q EXTRA UK - G91 There’s going to be plenty of new product that you may have missed at Eurobike including fresh lines from Topeak, Maxxis, Intense, Clif Bar, fi’zi:k, crankbrothers and Time.
Q FOFFA - F35 Off the back of partnerships with Royal Polo clubs and Soho House, Foffa has a number of new bikes to show off at the NEC. The Plume is Foffa’s new ladies range of bikes. Classic in appearance, the lightweight alloy frames mean you don’t need a forklift to lug it up a flight of stairs, the brand says. RRP is £359.99. The Single Speed is core Foffa fare. Classic looks, a flip flop rear wheel and track geometry, it’s the entry range of bikes for the brand hitting the £319.99 price point. Moving up the scale, the Single Speed Premium features chromoly steel polished chrome with plenty of attention to detail promised. This statement bike retails just shy of £500. Foffa’s Urban is a practical model, using a Shimano seven speed Nexus hub, alloy frame, full mudguards, internal cabling and kick stand (£499). The Urban Premium runs with that concept and includes a Shimano eight speed Alfine and SRAM AvidBB7 disc brakes in matte black (£799.99).
Q FISHER OUTDOOR LEISURE - H45 Fisher will be bringing all of its heavy hitting brands along, including SRAM, Santini, Early Rider, Tacx (you won’t miss the Tacx Truck), Troy Lee and LOOK, among others. Muc-Off will feature too, BIKEBIZ.COM
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Q I-RIDE - L12, B21 & B31 i-ride is packing plenty into its stands, incuding De Rosa, Fulcrum, Northwave, Orro, BKOOL, Argon 18, Alpine Stars, Catlike, Contintental and more. Q HOPE - G42 Hope is another brand bringing its latest tech to the NEC following a successful Eurobike showing. With any luck, they might bring along their prototype carbon bar too, which is currently in the lengthy testing and refinement stage.
Q ISON - G147 & H145 Ison’s bringing new parts and bikes from Surly, Halo (Vapour 35 & 50 rims), Light Blue (tasty retro looking bikes with modern geometry), HT Pedals (favourites of 2015 DH World Cup Champion Aaron Gwin and Enduro WC rider Jerome
Clement), Apidura (bikepacking Bags that Mark Beaumont used on his recent record breaking Africa solo adventure), Rohloff, Banshee and the UK launch of a new series of grips from ODI which feature new technology and performance with a model to suit all riders whether they prefer slim or wide grips instead. Meanwhile over on Stand H145 they will be introducing two very nice light brands: Owleye Lights offer great value and a wide choice whilst Gloworm Lights are at the performance end of the market with their focused range, Ison tells us. On the stand will also be the 2016 All City Macho Man Disc Red and White UK Spec 105.
Q MADISON - B11 & C11 There’s little chance you’ll miss the 40ft double decker Shimano Truck on your NEC visit which is just as
well as Shimano had a few interesting bits and pieces to show off at Eurobike and we hope they’ll make an appearance at Cycle Show too, not least the urban Metrea group. Also starring with Madison will be Elite, Garmin, GoPro (of course), Kryptonite and Lazer. On stand C11 there’ll be Compressport, Electron, Light & Motion, Madison clothing and Recon, among others.
there too, as will folder Lynx LPX and a wealth of other pedal assisted models.
Q MOORE LARGE - B41 & B51 The Derby distributor is largely bringing along its P&A ranges, having shown off the latest from Moda, Forme, Haro, Cuda and the rest at its Autumn Geared show, though you’ll still see some highlights from the aforementioned. Expect to see the new broad accessories line from Bobbin, Knog’s expanded light line up, Proviz, Sigma, Super B, Lake, Jagwire and the rest.
Q RALEIGH - J145, A45 & D83 Raleigh’s e-bike showing will be on stand J145, so head to A45 for the rest of what the firm offers, which as you’ll no doubt know includes a huge range reaching most of the cycle markets, from BMX to cyclocros, road, folders, tri bikes and more.
Q POWACYCLE - K121 The e-bike stalwart has been in the game since the early 2000s and will be taking the Infineum Continental along to the NEC, featuring a rear rack and 28-inch wheels. The Infineum Extreme bike will be
Q PRIMAL EUROPE - H91 Primal’s coming out of a major rebrand, so this showing will re-emphasise that as well as show off the latest lines from the firm. For those who missed it, there’s a new online identity, company tagline and logo.
Q CSG - C41, G1 & D51 GT, Fabric and Charge will be back at Cycle Show this year thanks to the return of Cycling Sports Group UK, no doubt with a funky stand design from Charge and some of the innovations shown off over in Friedrichshafen at Eurobike. Q SCHWALBE - A21 The new Nobby Nic (all-round MTB
CYCLE SHOW EXHIBITORS LIST 2015 Bicicielo Schwalbe / Bohle UK ltd Cube Bikes Netherlands Ribble Hotlines Europe Ltd Wattbike Limited Raleigh UK Ltd Extreme-Eyewear Ltd Brightside Bike Lights LTD Alreet LTD Teko Socks (Anatom Ltd) Glidebikes.co BikesEtc Now You See The Cycle Studio Pulsin Beet It (James White Drinks) Secret Training Rubena (Bike Tyrestore) Hotlines Europe Ltd Met Helmets Madison
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A15 A21 A25 & A31 A41 A42 A43 A45 A51 A52 A53 A54 A56 A57 A59 A60 A61 A63 A65 A7 A70 A75 B11
i-ride High 5 Moore Large & Co Ltd Verve Cycling UK Ltd PitBitz Ltd Greenover Ltd Kool-Stop Europe BV Madison Halfords Ltd Beacon & Protool Cycleworks The Cycling Sports Group Scimitar Sports Pell and Parker LTD Bushnell Performance Optics Strider Balance Bikes UK Torq Ltd Datatag ID Ltd Ryde International B.V. Sapim Zefal Deda Elementi Kiddimoto
B21 & B31 B32 B41 & B51 B70 B71 B72 C1 C11 C21 C35 C41 C57 C59 C73 D1 D11 D13 D17 D17 D17 D21 D22
Geax-Vittoria Spa Chicken Cycles Silverfish Rose Bikes GmbH ITALJET Shift ITS Cycling So Cycle Ltd Oakley Cycling Plus SALICE (Manbi International Sportswear) The Cycling Sports Group SMP4BIke (Dillglove Ltd) Cycle Solutions NAQI® International Ltd Osomount - Zero 50 Retail Ltd Wosskow Brown Epic Cycling String Bike Raleigh UK Ltd Willworx Bicycle Stands The Sock Mine
D23 D24 D25 D29 J140 D31 D41 D47 D48 D49 D5 D51 D61 D65 D67 D69 D71 D77 D79 D83 D84 D85
TrueStart Coffee Foska Pro Vision Cycle Clothing Ltd Bimpair Chia Charge Foffa Bikes CST Tires Fibrax Limited Sail (UK) Ltd ACT [Association of Cycle Traders] Hotel Lungomare Di Pasolini Giuliano & C. Snc (Italy Cycling Holidays) EuroRaxx Success Cycling Ltd Cyclist Magazine Osomount - Zero 50 Retail Ltd John Roberts Associates Target Velo Micro Scooters VISIJAX® Pro - GreenMx Condor Cycles Ltd
D87 F1 F10 F29 F3 F35 F37 F45 F48 F48a F49 F63 F67 F69 F7 F79 F8 F81 F9 G10 G101
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tyre) and Pro One tubeless easy tyre will be among the highlights at the Schwalbe stand. The Procore double chamber system will be showcased too, aimed at offering MTB tyres new levels of grip, control and puncture protection. In the inner chamber there is high pressure, and with 0.8 bar in the outer chamber the tyre almost ‘sticks’ to the ground, we’re told.
a 50mm offset fork to help improve tyre clearance and limit toe overlap. The frame has a replaceable derailleur hanger on the rear dropout for unexpected issues during a trip, hidden fender eyelets inside the seatstays, and simple external cable routing for both shifters. The frame has two water-bottle bosses on the inside of the triangle and also one on the underside.
Q SILVERFISH - D25 Mondraker and Ritte bikes will feature at D25.
Q KONA Kona’s Sutra LTD represents the converging trajectories of mountain and road bike parts, which basically means you can ride it on multiple surfaces. The new Sutra geometry is based on Kona’s new CX geometry but uses a taller head tube and longer top tube as well as
Q KOOL-STOP - C1 Cycle Show stalwart and brake specialist Kool-Stop will be bringing its range along to the NEC, including organic, aluminium, sintered, e-bike and aero-kool (forged aluminium cooling pinned backing plate with a high performance organic compound) brake pads.
Attached via Velcro, it’ll house the bare essentials and offers some reflective detailing to boot. See it and more range highlights at M70.
Q MET - A75 2016 road range highlights include the Manta, Rivale and Sine Thesis. Met’s boffins have spent hours in the wind tunnel, hopefully in their thermals, as well as getting feedback from Team MTN Qhubeka to develop the streamlined and compact shape of the Rivale, which saves three watts at 50km/h and weighing only 230g (medium), according to the brand. The Venturi effect allows for maximum air intake to keep the head cool without sacrificing aerodynamics. See it in the flesh at A75.
Q UPGRADE BIKES - G15 Find Lezyne at G15 and its new Stripdrive (£54.99). Stripdrive has a co-moulded body sealing against bad weather with new Memory Mode that ensures the lights starts on the mode it was turned off on. Featuring a Li-Poly USB rechargeable battery there’s a body and strap that easily fits to any type of seatpost and handlebars. The Cycle Show has been running since 2002 and has welcomed over 300,000 visitors since its launch. This year the show, which will be held at the NEC between 25th & 27th September, will host around 280 exhibitors from the cycling world. www.cycleshow.co.uk/trade
Q VAUDE - M70 £10 doesn’t buy you much nowadays, especially when it comes to road cycling. Step in Vaude, who offer the Race Light S, which the brand is calling the world’s lightest saddlebag at just 39 grams.
CYCLE SHOW EXHIBITORS LIST 2015 Pro Vision Cycle Clothing Ltd Select Cycle Components t/a Campagnolo [SCC] Selle Italia srl WEKUL ELECTRIC LTD. Storck Raddar UK Ltd Lexham Insurance Cons Ltd Van Nicholas Ultimate Sports Engineering Ltd Henty Lyon Equipment Ltd ISON Distribution Upgrade Bikes Ltd SUB-4 Health & Wellbeing Centre Biemme Sport S.r.l. / Selev Helmets Bowers Kustom Grn Bikewear Upgrade Bikes Ltd Velo Vixen Decathlon Birmingham StayStrong Rosa Sport
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G11 G111 G115 G12 G121 G13 G131 G137 G14 G143 G147 G15 G151 G152 G153 G154 G16 G21 G22 G3 F77
Legend International Ltd. Ursus Spa SUB-4 Health & Wellbeing Centre Plain Lazy (Holdings) Ltd Velotech Services Tannus Tyres Hope Technology Elivar (UK) Ltd. ZipVit P&R Têxteis, SA - ONDA Windwave Stone Marketing Gear Club Ltd KALAS WEAR LTD Cafe Coppi Ltd (HK) Raleigh UK Ltd Extra UK Ltd Cycleurope UK Ltd KTM Fahrrad GmbH VITUS BIKES (Chain Reaction Cycles) Powabyke UK Ltd Freego Electric Bikes
G32 G33 G35 G4 G40 G41 G42 G44 G45 G51 G61 G7 G71 G73 G8 G9 G91 H101 H121 H131 H140 H141
Quest 88 ISON Distribution Upgrade Bikes Ltd Reece Cycles Plc. Surf & Turf Bike Box Alan Ltd Upgrade Bikes Ltd Planet X Ltd Westfalia Automotive UK Goodfish Ltd X-Bionic Regatta Ltd Yellow Jersey Cycle Insurance Fisher Outdoor Leisure Ltd Bicisport Srl Neadoo Sp. z o.o.o. Windwave Weldtite Products Ltd Windwave Primal Europe Ltd Starley Bikes Sure Clinic
H143 H145 H15 H151 H154 H155 H15a H21 H25 H27 H31 H35 H43 H45 H51 H53 H61 H65 H71 & H81 H91 H95 J111
Bikeco Ltd See Sense Amps Electric Bikes Ltd Veelo Ltd ESkoot Arcc Innovations Global Import Specialists Ltd King Meter Stone Leisure (Electric Bike Magazine) Raleigh UK Ltd Kudos Cycles 50cycles.com Four4th Lusso Clothing TMR Designs Ledco Ltd Pro Bump Wear Bike Hawk Velosure Optimum Design UK Ltd Velotec Limited Vaaru Cycles
J121 J122 J131 J133 J134 J135 J136 J137 J139 J145 J151 J141 J31 J32 J33 J34 J35 J36 J37 J38 J41 J42
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FEATURES & ATTRACTIONS TACX TRUCK
SHIMANO TRUCK’S UK DEBUT
ELECTRIC BIKE VILLAGE
DIRT JUMPING Featuring Monster UK’s Sam Pilgrim KIDS DRY TRI
RETAIL VILLAGE
KID’S DEMO TRACK
DARE2B ROAD BIKE TRACK
TOUR OF BRITAIN BAR/CAFÉ
SEMINARS Featuring bike trade specific talks on the Thursday from Myagi and others, then on the consumer days there’ll be Q&As hosted by Rebecca Charlton and Ned Boulting with Sean Kelly, Riche Porte and more, plus Cycling Weekly Live.
CYCLE STARS Featuring Richie Porte, Jens Voigt, Sean Kelly, Stephen Roche, Magnus Backstedt and Martyn Ashton
CYCLO CROSS RACING UK BMX FLATLAND CHAMPIONSHIPS
CYCLE SHOW EXHIBITORS LIST 2015 Primal Pantry J43 ITW Global Tire Repair Europe J44 Brodco Ltd J45 Trek J51 ATB Sales J71 Bike Register J90 TIPTOP AUTOMOTIVE GmbH J95 Indive Ltd (Cycl) K111 Powacycle [UTN Solutions North Ltd T/A] K121 Momentum Electric Limited K123 Baltik Vairas UAB K125 Royal Dutch Gazelle K127 Fat Lad At The Back (FLAB) K13 CycleWiz Ltd K14 BYOCYCLES LTD K145 BiKLOX LLP K15 V’Lec Cycles K150 Juicy Bikes K152 Roodog Ltd K153 EMU Elctric Bike Company LTD K155 Batribike K190 Pedego Europe K200 E-Bicycles K201 Avalanche Sports Marketing Limited
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(Compressport) K22 Cicla K25 Bike Lights UK K26 Canyon Bikes UK Ltd K63 Green Jersey Cycling Tours K71 Explore Worldwide K72 Brittany Ferries K73 Hotel Senior K74 Amazing Bike Tours Co.,Ltd K76 Dogcam Sport L11 i-ride L12 Pinpoint Consumer Electronics (Aftershokz sport Headphones L15 Ice Tagg Ltd L16 EDZ (Mellbeck Ltd) L17 Roswheel UK L25 Torch Apparel L26 Wear-Design L27 1partCarbon L28 Monkeylectric L29 Moore Large & Co Ltd L31 Success Publishing Ltd (Cycling World) L33 C Originals Ltd L35 4TheCompagnie L41
Cicerone Telenav Cyclescheme Ltd Mitaro s.r.o Assurant Direct Witter Towbars British Cycling CTC Jet 2 Holidays Time Inc Malta Tourism Authority Game on sports & Travel Exodus Travels Ltd Shamrock Events S.L.U Costa Blanca Bike Hotels S.L. Eurochange Headwater Gwynedd Council Velotude Bloomsbury Publishing Plc RSPB Sustrans - National cycle network Sure Sports Polytime
L47 L53 L54 L56 L57 L58 L59 L61 L63 L67 L71 L72 L73 L74 L75 L76 L77 L78 L81 L82 L83 L84 M14 M16
Elta Automotive Ltd / Lucas Bike Lights M18 Ginger & French Limited M20 Sorrymate.com M26 Buhel UK M27 Scottoiler M31 PitBitz Ltd M60 Citrus-Lime Limited M63 Evopos UK Ltd (Barclays Business Services)M65 BikeBiz Magazine M69 VAUDE Sport Gmbh & Co.kg M70 Bob Elliot & Co M71 Fish Works M73 Craft M74 Cycleworks Ltd M75 Rouleur M76 Tiger Cycles Europe LTD M78 NiteBright Ltd M80 Tacx M90 Scotlab Ltd G10a Bike It G31 Drops - Bespoke Cycling Wallpaper H41 The Cycling Sports Group G1 CORRECT AT TIME OF PRESS
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SANTINI
FAMILY MATTERS Santini has a lot to celebrate in its 50th year, from proudly keeping production in Italy to a long-standing team up with Italy’s premier road race. But managing director Monica Santini is keen to emphasise the brand is looking ahead to new tech as well as treasuring its strong heritage, finds Jonathon Harker…
The apparel firm’s MD Monica Santini
PINARELLO’S REGENT Street showcase The Bike Rooms hosted the launch of the Giro d’Italia’s Classico Chianti 2016 stage last month. Attracting a good number of the nation’s cycle journalists, Fausto Pinarello, Giro director Mauro Vegni and – unless we’re very much mistaken – Countdown’s (and Breeze ambassador) Rachel Riley with Strictly Come Dancing’s Pasha Kovalev, it was something of a star-studded affair, despite the presence of your intrepid BikeBiz reporter. Given Santini’s longrunning association with the Giro d’Italia it was no surprise that the apparel firm’s managing director Monica Santini there too, so BikeBiz took the opportunity to interview the Santini chief and UK distributor Fisher’s Santini brand manager Jonathan Sangan, away from the glitz of the launch... How’s business been? Monica Santini: For us it has been a very big year, probably bigger than the last in the UK. Jonathan Sangan: Santini is up 40 per cent on last year in the UK. Monica Santini: It’s absolutely the fastest growing market, together BIKEBIZ.COM
with some countries in Asia. In Europe it is the fastest grower. Has that been the case for a while now or just the last year? MS: It’s been like that for five or six years now. The UK has a new love for bicycles. JS: It really ties in with the growth we’ve seen in the market. And what about worldwide? MS: Last year we had a very nice
all the celebrations finished now? MS: We had a big party in June with our biggest customers, suppliers and workers. We had this very moving ceremony with a video that we made for my Dad. We centred the meaning of the anniversary on him – he is and always has been the soul of the company. When we were thinking what we could do for the anniversary my sister [Paola Santini, marketing director] and I decided
“The anniversary was very moving. There’s a lot of respect for Dad.” Monica Santini year and we are up six per cent so far. Of course we have some countries that are struggling more than others. In central and southern Europe mainly, while others are going very well. It reflects the economic situation mostly. You are lucky, you don’t have the euro. It seems to have paid off for us. It’s a big year for you this year with the 50th anniversary. Have
to film secret interviews with people who used to work with us and people in the business who are friends with my Dad and some of the things they said were surprising and moving. They had a lot of respect for my Dad. He has not always wanted to be in the media because it is not in his character. We wanted to change that: We told him ‘people love you!’ JS: When you go to the factory
the fact it is a family business comes through very strongly. MS: My Dad always says “that’s my name on it”. For him it was never possible for us to make something ugly or low quality. That was never part of our DNA. It’s true for me. It is my name on it and I want to be proud of it when I see it. Were you always going to go into the business? Was it the plan? MS: When you are in a family where there is a business there is never anything directly said but there is an expectation. But my Dad never forced any of us to be in the business. He always said do what you want, the important thing is you do your best. Me and my sister both decided to work in other companies in other countries because it was important to see what was different so we could bring back other ways of doing things. I didn’t plan the way it worked out, but it worked out for the best. My Dad gave us the opportunity to change things and the organisation of the company. Santini famously manufactures in Italy. Is it a challenge to keep BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 27
SANTINI
Santini’s high tech Photon aero gear
production there? MS: It is a challenge and cost is not the only reason. It is difficult to find people with the right skills. Italy is not exactly a welcoming place to come to work with lots of rules, but it has always been important to us and to my Dad. I remember growing up and my Dad being very proud of the fact that the parking lot was full of cars and over the years the cars were renewed. That idea that to just up and change where we work…we think of what the people working for us have done for the company. Our success is also thanks to them. We will try everything possible to stay in Italy.
successful. You’ve got to say the heritage jerseys have done well too. In the UK as you learn more about cycling the more appetite there is for it and the history. MS: I think so. We produce designs that have lots of meanings, like with the the stage jerseys. When we design those we put so many different specific features into the designs, it’s not just a question
Is the UK more conservative in styling and colours? MS: It is true not only for the UK but also for northern Europe. Probably southern France is a bit more colourful. The styles we sell are more colourful in the south and in the north they are a bit more… black! With grey and maybe a touch of yellow… JS: We still like all the traditional and stage jerseys. This year we had red and black jerseys and the prosecco kit always goes down well. They’ve been extremely
of colours. There are details related to the stage and people really appreciate that. They’re never trivial designs, they have a deeper meaning – the colour doesn’t really matter.
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style with it. We thought we could do something more with Giro so we introduced the stage jerseys and these are more and more successful. They’re very collectible. The stages are in such iconic places. For us, being Italian, we get to promote the country, the race and of course our brand too. What about trends in the market?
“In terms of trends, aero is huge. There’s a big appetite for it.” Jonathan Sangan, Fisher
Obviously the Giro relationship is important for Santini...? MS: We’ve been with Giro d’Italia for 20 years and I would like to think we grew with the race. It has grown in lots of ways, it helps us be seen in many different counties and in the same way we have created a
And what’s next for Santini? MS: This year we’ve started working with l’Eroica. In our 50th anniversary year it was a great opportunity for us to show we can create something as we used to do 50 years ago – and to promote the brand in a segment that is growing. JS: In terms of trends, aero is huge. We talk a lot about Santini’s heritage but they are ahead of the game with lines like Photon, for instance. It’s very high tech and aero – there is a huge appetite for it. It brings all kinds of people to
cycling. Now clothing is an essential part of the bike fit package. The women’s market has grown massively. Women want the best technology and Santini produces apparel that is feminine without being girly. Then there’s multiweather products. We’ve worked closely with Gore to solve the problem that in Northern Europe especially, you never know what the weather is going to throw at you. Now we’ve got very lightweight full weather protection with Gore. MS: Santini is ahead with every innovation but we’re also one of the few that can still make apparel as in the old days. With the factory in Italy we are able to do that. JS: The custom market is growing at an exponential rate. It’s a no brainer for shops, it comes from the same production line and it helps with building your brand. MS: One of the things is that you can set the price point. As a company we are seeing incredible growth in a number of products from those we produced for l’Eroica to the high tech, the replicas and the stage jerseys. We multi-task – we are not defined by one thing as a company. santinisms.it; fisheroutdoor.co.uk BIKEBIZ.COM
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REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT
REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT: The Midlands The Midlands may lay claim to UK cycling’s historical heartland, but is the region in danger of living on former glories? Jonathon Harker delves in to the heritage and current attractions…
Pashley starting producing in Stratford in1926
Brooks of England (and Birmingham)
YOU CAN find a sizeable portion of the cycle trade based in the Midlands but you’d be forgiven for concluding that’s purely down to a historical quirk. Raleigh, Pashley, Dawes and Brooks are some of the established names that have traded in the middle of England for near to or over a century. Even key Midlandsbased trade names like Moore Large and Greyville were established in the region over 30 years ago. The Bicycle Association of Great Britain has been long associated with the Midlands too, based in its various forms in Coventry right back from Victorian times – in the late 1860s the city was at the heart of cycle manufacturing. That’s clearly not the case now and this year we saw the Bicycle Association finally severe its link with the city, closing its office in Coventry. For the past couple of decades not all distribution businesses have felt the need to establish themselves in the Midlands, with the likes of Silverfish in Saltash in BIKEBIZ.COM
the South West and 2pure and Hotlines in Edinburgh, and countless others in the South East. But perhaps it would be too hasty to assume that it all adds up to a Midlands losing its allure for the cycle trade. While many of the distributors that have launched in the last 30 years have been happy to set up in all corners of the nation, two retail giants have
be bigger than ever. Last month event director Chris Holman told BikeBiz: “This is by far the largest number of exhibitors the show has ever had in its 13 years, which is just fantastic.” Giant UK is headquartered in Leicestershire, moving to its Cossington base in 2010 (stock is held in Felixstowe), so too is Islabikes near Ludlow in Shropshire.
The Midlands used to be the regional powerbase behind the bicycle business. relocated their warehouses to the Midlands in recent years (more on that over the page). There are other signs of the Midlands pull too, not least with the UK’s longest established bike exhibition, Cycle Show. Upper Street Events pulled off the hugely tricky feat of moving the show from Earls Court in London to Birmingham’s NEC in 2011. So successful has the move been that this year’s show, taking place at the end of September, will
Last year when Clarks Cycle Systems opened its brand spanking new warehouse it chose to stick with the Midlands (in Hinckley) with boss Tony Wright telling us at the time: “Logistically that’s as good as it gets.” There are other considerations too. While cycle production ‘ain’t like it was in the old days, the area is a hotbed for car production with Jaguar Land Rover and Aston Martin among others, keeping skills
and knowledge (and the local economy) thriving. Just down the road in Nuneaton, DP Brakes produced brake pads for bicycle and motorbikes alike, itself a company born with roots in aviation manufacture and Dunlop. There are plenty of other things to draw the bike trade’s eye in the region too, including this year’s launch of Derby’s own velodrome. The 5,000-seated venue is one of a very few such venues in Britain, so now the region has a comparable facility to those in London, Newport, Manchester and north of the border in Glasgow. Naturally your attention is drawn to the historical cycling highs in the Midlands when it was the regional powerhouse behind the bike trade. When we talk about notable Midlands cycle brands like Pashley, Raleigh, Brooks and Dawes we inevitably do so with a nod to their prestigious pasts. But tempting as it is, the fact they are still trading successfully shouldn’t be outshone by the fact that they’ve been around for a while. BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 33
REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT Visitors to Moore Large HQ can see where it all began
Q DISTRIBUTION PROFILE IF IT’S distribution you’re after then you’ve come to the right place. The Midlands is packed with ‘em, including some of the best known in the country, nay world. That list includes Raleigh, Moore Large, Clarks Cycle Systems, Greyville, 2x2, 50 Cycles, Dawes Cycles, Extra UK, Schwalbe UK, Reece Cycles, Velotech Services, Walkers, Yellow and many others. Common sense points to the fact that being in the middle (of England if not technically the middle of the UK) means its faster to get product out to the four corners of the country, but the reality may just be that history (see page 33) and convenience has seen this accumulation. IN THE BEGINNING Moore Large came into being back in 1974 when John Moore formed a new company with Cliff Large, distributor for Puch. The firm picked up distribution for Kenda – which is still distributes – back in 1976, surely making it one of the longest running distribution deals in the cycle trade.
Raleigh’s history goes back rather further than that, of course, evolving between retail, manufacturing and distributing. In 1887 Sir Frank Bowden bought part of a small cycle company on Raleigh Street in Nottingham and three years later the Raleigh Bicycle Company was born. Books have been filled on what happened since then, but a few milestones to note
have been based in the present warehouse at Lichfield, Staffordshire. So where does the name Greyville come from? It was a ship Pritchard was skipper of in an earlier pre-bike trade life. Pritchard tells BikeBiz: “In order to successfully survive against competition from larger distributors the company’s policy has always been to offer excellent service and
“In the early days self employed sales agents sent in their orders by post!” Alan Pritchard, Greyville Enterprises are the purchase of Sturmey Archer in 1902 and the launch of the Chopper in ’70. Manufacture ceased in ’99, though the firm is still building wheels and designing bikes from its Eastwood, Nottinghamshire base as well as distributing from there. Greyville Enterprises was founded back in 1979 by current owner Alan Pritchard. It originally traded from the Aston inner city area of Birmingham but since 1989
to this end all employees are active (or retired active) cyclists with a good practical knowledge of bike parts. The idea is when a customer contacts the office their call will be answered by a real cyclist with an in-depth knowledge of the company’s product range and how they function.” Pritchard adds: “This product range has developed over the years with some names an echo from the past – who can remember the PDM
Team successfully riding the Tour de France wearing Ultima clothing on Concorde frames? More recently SR Suntour has come to the forefront as one of the company’s top brands and all labels and products are excellently illustrated and described on the company’s website and in the annual catalogue. High stock levels are maintained for prompt next day delivery and the B2B ordering system works extremely effectively. A far cry from the early days when self employed sales agents (company couldn’t afford employed sales reps) sent in their orders by post!” The Greyville boss and founder says the 36 years have not dulled the company’s desire to develop and improve both the product range and the standard of service that has proven successful over the last decades. He adds: “Meetings with suppliers at the recent Eurobike in Germany will hopefully bear fruit with new brands and products for the 2016 catalogue. Watch this space.”
CLUB MEMBERSHIP Cyclists in the Midlands are less likely to be a member of a cycling club, at 2.6 per cent compared to 4.5 per cent of cyclists in the rest of the UK
MOUNTAIN AND TRACK
Both MTB and track cycling are more popular with cyclists in the Midlands compared with the rest of the UK 34 OCTOBER BIKEBIZ
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REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT Velobici’s new Market Bosworth boutique store
Q RETAIL PROFILE WHILE YOU may not associate the Midlands with the nation’s biggest bike retailers particularly, the area plays a key role for at least two of them. Halfords operates two distribution centres in the region, in Redditch in Worcestershire and – since 2010 – over in Coventry in a 320,000 square foot warehouse. Likewise Wiggle has upped sticks to the Midlands. While its head office remains in the South, the online giant’s distribution centre has migrated to Wolverhampton over the course of this year. Thanks to those two retailers alone, the bike trade is a significant employer in the region. Halford’s Coventry centre has around 300 staff or colleagues, while Redditch – which is its true bike centre – has 50 staff and over 300 product lines. Wiggle said it planned to recruit around 150 jobs in its move from Portsmouth to Wolverhampton. Wiggle’s new facility is 323,000 sq ft (just pipping Halfords’ largest
Halfords’ behind the scenes presence in the Midlands is massive; While Rutland Cycling (right) just opened a fifth shop in the vicinity
Two of the nation’s biggest bike retailers have their logistic centres in the Midlands. warehouse, interestingly). The new distribution digs are three times the size of its former warehouse space and in a press statement from the online retailer there was much mention of the logistical advantages, placed two miles from the M6 and six miles from the M5. It’s not just about national and international retail giants, of course,
COMMUTING DAYS Midlands cycle commuters got in the saddle marginally less often than their rest-of-UK counterparts (66 per cent compared with 73 per cent)
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with local IBDs opening up in the region including Velobici which opened a new boutique in Market Bosworth in Leicestershire in August. Housed in a Grade II Listed building on Main Street, the shop offers stylish roadwear, designer accessories and bespoke bicycles. One of the best-known local bike shops of the region is probably
Rutland Cycling, with four stores in and around the Midlands. The firm started off with a hut-sized shop in 1981 but since then a new outlet has been built, dwarfing that original spot with a stock in excess of 400 bikes, plus lots of P&A and bike fit. Now the retailer has just opened its fifth outlet in nearby Peterborough at the entrance to the Ferry Meadows Country Park. That shop joins the outlets in Whitwell, Grafham, Fineshade and the Giant Store at Rutland Water. At the end of last year Leisure Lakes chose the Midlands to open its largest outlet yet. The Daventry store features over 250 bicycles over two floors. In fact there’s plenty of big-scale bike shops in the region, including Specialized’s own flagship Birmingham store, featuring over 400 of the brand’s bikes (and housing the Midlands’ largest S-Works selection in its 4,000 square foot showroom).
SAFETY CONSCIOUS COMMUTERS 21 per cent of Midlands cycle commuters never wear a helmet, compared with 18 per cent in the rest of the UK
BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 37
REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT How many P&A brands have their own store?
Pashley’s export business continues to flourish
Q MANUFACTURER PROFILE JOHN KEMP Starley has got a lot to answer for – probably all of our jobs, for a start. Starley was the creator of the 1885 Safety bicycle which is widely seen as the archetype for almost all of today’s bicycles. Even the fat tyred ones. The Rover Safety bicycle was tested on a flat stretch of London Road on the outskirts of Coventry. The same London Road hosts the cemetery where he is buried if you fancy a pilgrimage. If you think we’re building up his role too much, bicycle figures from around the world including Gary Fisher, Joe Breeze, Brian Cookson and Ernesto Colnago paid tribute to him on the anniversary of his birthday (in 2012). Having once been a hotbed for manufacturing the area has been hit over the decades by numerous firms pulling production out. From perhaps less headline grabbing departures like Clarks Cycle Systems transferring manufacture from Birmingham to the Far East (the firm told BikeBiz that it moved its manufacture away thanks in part to all of its customers moving to Asia) to generation-defining moves like Raleigh. At its peak, Raleigh produced around two million bikes a year and employed around 8,000 people to
make them. When it made the tough decision to move production employee numbers were already a fraction of that at around 400 employees, then cut to 120 at the start of the 21st Century (Source: BBC). While production moved, the firm’s Nottinghamshire site still designs bikes on-site and there’s still a manufacturing link in its wheel building facility, which it has been doing for 125 years. And happily there is bicycle manufacturing still going on in the Midlands, most notably with Pashley, based in Stratford-upon-
“Next year Pashley turns 90 and we’re planning how to celebrate the occasion.” Blake Lavelle, Pashley Avon. It’s been a strong period for the firm, particularly in terms of those ever popular exports. “2015 has been a good year for us, we have seen a good level of demand for our special edition bicycles and the trade and carrier cycle part of our business is still in high demand, especially overseas,” says Blake Lavelle, customer service manager for Pashley. “We’ve had a great year for getting out and meeting our customers and
CYCLING PARTICIPATION 14 per cent of the Midlands population have cycled at least four times a year, compared with 17 per cent in the rest of the UK.
38 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER
promoting the brand. This we do at the London Tweed ride as well as our own summer event the “Pashley Picnic” which this year had a record number of riders coming to Stratford for a civilised ‘potter’ about the lanes and locally sourced refreshments.” The firm is gearing up for a big anniversary, Lavelle adds: “Next year Pashley turns 90 years old, so we are looking at how we can celebrate the occasion. I can’t imagine the size of the cake we’ll need to give everyone in the factory and office a slice!”
There’s plenty of P&A being created in the region, including at Nuneaton’s DP Brakes. When BikeBiz visited the factory this summer, the firm was keen to emphasise the lead-time advantages of manufacturing in the UK as well as the responsibilities of keeping things local. Technical director Frank Edwards told us at the time: “We always try to support local firms. The copper plating is done in the UK over in
Birmingham’s jewellery quarter. For the powders we use UK distributors wherever we can.” Edwards added that overseas companies had offered them chance to move production overseas: “That has been pretty tempting, but in the long term it’s not attractive. You can’t control the quality. We’re well established and have a high level of skill. We have in-house training and specialised kit that people won’t have worked on before.” There’s cycle apparel manufacturing in the Midlands too. Shutt VR might have moved its HQ from the Yorkshire Dales to Oxfordshire, but many of its core jersey ranges and all the Tweed caps are made in Leicestershire. Brooks of England is a firm that has, like Pashley, managed to keep making cycle product for decades – since 1886 in Brooks’ case. The cache of the company saw it launch a brand store – pretty unusual, nay unique, for a P&A brand in the cycle trade – in London’s Covent Garden at the end of 2013. Of course we’ve only scratched the surface of the Midlands’ cycle industry – contact us if you’ve anything to add at bikebiz@ nbmedia.com
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Only one cyclist was issued a fixed penalty for jumping a red light in the Midlands in 2014/15 (source: The Birmingham Post)
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MOORE LARGE
Straps the way to do it: Revised rubber straps for Knog lights
Fresh materials for Proviz mean lines are now breathable
Forme brings in a disc model in the Longcliffe line
Geared for
There’s now a significant Bobbin accessory line-up
AUTUMN Moore Large’s Autumn Geared show, a spin-off of its spring Geared event, not only packs in product but there’s MTB and road ride outs, and a velodrome session too. Forgetting his lycra and baggies, Jonathon Harker did at least remember his notebook to take in the new product details… WITH THE glut of shows at this time of the year, you’d be forgiven for thinking you could skip a few and not miss much (and for many shops there won’t be enough hours in the week) but it seems the product design teams of the bike trade are an industrious lot willing to prove that assertion wrong, with new products turning up in each and every show. Moore Large’s burgeoning Geared Autumn show is no exception, unearthing some new gems and serving as a reminder of what’s shortly arriving in stock, particularly if you didn’t get over to Eurobike. Just a couple of weeks ahead of its NEC Cycle Show appearance, which we’re told will largely showcase Moore Large’s P&A offering, skipping this house show may have meant you missed a few of the new bikes coming into the ranges. So without further ado… Bobbin’s Junior range is now coming into stock with Moore Large. The new line includes BIKEBIZ.COM
balance bikes which – in the main – are mirroring the adult ranges in styling, particularly the ever popular Brownie and Birdie bikes. Haro, meanwhile, is introducing a wider variety of price points to its line-up with the intention of broadening its customer base and making it more accessible.
They’ll be arriving in stock at the end of October. Onto Moda, which has at least four new models to attract your attention, largely in a classy monochrome styling. The new Stretto is the flagship in the brand’s road line-up, updating what is the most popular in the carbon road
Bobbin’s junior lines largely reflect adult big sellers like the Birdie and Brownie. Cuda has jumped into the competitive high quality junior bike market, facing off against the likes of Islabikes and Frog. The range starts from £220 and runs up to £400 and includes 14,16 and 18 inch bikes. The range comes in just the two unisex colours as Cuda wants to keep the range tight and compact. Sizes run up to 24, 26 and 700 and the bikes come in two types of tyres – cross or road.
range. Featuring full LDC high modulus carbon in the frame and fork, brake and gear cables are internally routed with Press Fit 86BB for improved drive stiffness. The aluminium TT/triathlon Mossa hits the £1,000 price and will be available at the end of October. This Tiagra-loaded aero double butted aluminium frame is pitched as an introduction to the sector. Arco is Moda’s aluminium track
bike (£1,000), with a semi-aero design and American Classic 3 420 track wheels. Last but not least, the new Finale comes with a fancy retro copper and red design that stands out in the largely monochrome range and was built using feedback from the Bike Place show in January, where it was first shown off to dealers. This top of the range aero carbon bike features an aero integrated full carbon fork running into an over sized head/down tube. Forme’s new full suspension mountain bike – Lathkill – is a well specced machine that is a selfconfessed “big step up” for the brand. Featuring components from Race face, Rockshox, Stealth Reverb, crankbrothers and more, the bike is specced with the kind of components customers would like to have, brand guru Joe Poyzer told BikeBiz. It’s about twice the price of its former nearest model at £2,500 and features 140mm and an exclusive frame. There’s some nice Ordnance Survey detailing of local BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 41
MOORE LARGE
Lots of colours from the world of Knog
Cuda now has an expanded quality kids line-up starting at £220
Moda’s fancy new Finale paint job
Lake has two new MTB models, the MX180 & 168
Forme’s Hooklow now comes in non-drop bar iteration
climbs too. Forme’s MTBs have all got new graphics while there’s a variation on the Hooklow ‘multiroute bike’ – or gravel bike if you prefer. The versatile ride now comes with a flat bar option which is indicative of the brand’s ethos of delivering what customers want, Poyzer explains, trying to make cycling more accessible with some commuters (who wouldn’t necessarily class themselves as ‘cyclists’) telling the brand they don’t like drop bars. Forme now also offers a disc brake option in the Longcliffe at the £1,000 sweetspot. Onza is keen to keep to its MTB roots, using steel and blending the old with the new. The brand is to offer a custom build option online. The customer chooses their build and details online, the order comes through to Moore Large and then it is passed onto bike shops to make contact with the customer and go from there. The bikes are UK built over in the Derby HQ with just a two to three day turnaround. Onza provides a nice segueway into the P&A part of the show, as it now offers an updated version of the super comfortable and popular 42 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER
Ules grip. Now in a lock on version, they come in tan, black and there’s plans for a camo version too. Sigma’s wearable Activo fitness band has been plugged before but it’s now in stock with Moore Large. It counts steps, calories and even analyses sleep in this growing product category. Sticking with wearables, the RC Move is a state
new breathable fabric for the jacket. The reflective material is now perforated and backed with breathable and waterproof film, while the shoulders and sleeves have been changed to a raglan style for improved movement in the shoulders and upper back. No doubt you are up to date with Knog’s now three-range-strong line
Moda’s new Stretto is the flagship in the carbon road line. of the art training aid in the form of a watch, with a massive 260-hour log capacity. Sigma also has a natty new brake light that is reasonably priced and comes in a wide range of colours. Busy Bobbin not only has the aforementioned new junior bikes, but also a broad accessory line up, including vintage style lights, lots of luggage, bells, saddles and much more. That’s all now in stock except for the incoming helmets. Proviz has refined its tech with the Reflect 360+ range, including a
of lights where Pop is the new entry level offering in ten designs, including ‘mild or wild’. Elsewhere there’s been improvements made to the straps, as used by the likes of the Blinder Mob, eliminating breakage issues and with improved tech all for the same price. In short, there’s plenty more Knog lights now at Moore Large, with something available for virtually everyone. Alpina eyewear is new for Moore Large but the brand best known for its skiwear is an old hand at this
glasses lark and has brought over tech and styles from the ski world. American Classic’s all carbon Carbonators are now in stock with the distributor. The brand’s wide Smokin’ Gun wheels were very popular at Eurobike and they’re now in at ML, while the whole range has been improved with graphics and specs, we’re told. Onto footwear and Lake has a couple of new additions. The MX180 harkens back to Lake’s enduro and DH heritage, aimed at providing the ultimate upper protection against the elements with a secure fit and sure-footed grip on any surface. That grip is due in part to the Hypergrip rubber sole with Icelock tread inserts. They are vertically injected micro glass fibres that grip virtually all surfaces. Finally, the MX168 is all about utility, durability, foot protection and long lasting comfort. They are designed for all-round mountain biking, enduro touring and adventure racing. For more on Moore Large’s latest products, get to the NEC Cycle Show or contact the firm via www.moorelarge.co.uk BIKEBIZ.COM
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ZYRO CYCLE VISION
THE PORTAS
PRINCIPLES Advice from the country’s best known retail guru, prizes, brand new product, banquet dinners and more – Zyro’s Cycle Vision 2015 show promises to be bigger and more comprehensive this time around. Jonathon Harker previews the coming attractions…
Bell’s Super 2R
Giro’s Chrono Sport Jersey
CatEye’s Rapid
ZYRO’S CYCLE Vision Show will be back at Vinopolis, London but for two days this month, running October 19th and 20th. The trade-only house show won’t just be about product, not least because retail guru and TV star Mary Portas will be on hand to impart her insight in a workshop designed specifically for bike retailers. The High Street expert, best known for the TV programme ‘Queen of Shops’, will be aiming to empower independent retailers and provide them with her foresight, trend insights and views on how best to develop sales. Straight on from that, Zyro will be packing in its first Independent Retailer Awards at this year’s Cycle Vision show, recognising and awarding Zyro’s top UK and Irish independent retailers. The workshops won’t just see top name experts passing on their knowledge to the cycle trade, they’ll also cover Zyro’s key brands, with suppliers hosting talks and seminars to provide bike shops with a head start on the latest products shortly arriving in the portfolio, equipping them with the knowledge they need to make the most of BIKEBIZ.COM
what the brands offer, Zyro says. So yes, as you’d expect, new products will be at the core of the show. Throughout the extended show there’ll be chance for dealers to take an active part in those workshops covering all the brand new gear and innovations… PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS 2015 sees German manufacturer ABUS celebrate ten years of the Bordo folding lock and the new Centium Bordo has been produced to mark the occasion. ABUS’ Tec-Tical Pro V2 helmet gained a stage win at the Tour de France, courtesy of the Bora Argon 18 team and the partnership will continue for 2016, we’re told. And then there is MIPS, which we’ll hear plenty more about at the show. Now ABUS has jumped into the safety technology, which was plugged heavily at Eurobike, with the brand introducing MIPS into its helmets, starting with the Youn-I MIPS youth helmet. Onto apparel and Altura’s all-new Spring Summer 2016 line is launching at Cycle Vision, including the new performance ranges – Altura Podium, Altura Peloton and Altura Sportive. SS16 also sees the introduction of a performance women’s line with the addition of Women’s Peloton line-up, so there’ll be plenty on that at the Zyro showcase. Also coming from the busy brand is the all-new mountain bike line featuring an extensive range of new products, in a line-up that includes shorts, jerseys and jackets. Back again to MIPS and the safety tech is being rolled out BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 45
ZYRO CYCLE VISION ABUS’ Bordo Centium
Altura’s Sportive jersey
Magura’s new Vyron seatpost
The Raceblade Long from SKS
further across the Bell range of helmets, with price points now starting at £45 for youth helmets and £55 for adult helmets. 2016 sees the launch of Bell’s new women’s specific line Joyride, featuring a number of models for MTB, leisure and road riders. Onto hydration and Camelbak has just launched the new Low Rider range of packs, including the Palos 4 LR waist pack. In terms of bottles, the brand’s famous Podium range is adding multiple new colour options, including coloured caps. Cateye’s Volt and Rapid light ranges will feature along with the computer series stalwart Smart. Meanwhile Giro’s Chrono performance apparel line, which we hear is much anticipated, will be at Cycle Vision with a number of performance jerseys, jackets and bibs. The introduction of Synthe MIPS brings the safety technology to Giro’s top of the range road helmet, while the Montaro men’s and Montara women’s MIPS helmets bring Giro’s all-mountain 46 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER
trail helmet offering right up to date. Another addition to watch out for is the women’s Empire shoe. Magura’s new Electronic Dropper Seatpost caused a stir when it was first revealed this summer. If you missed it, this cable free solution is pitched at the all-mountain rider and Cycle Vision will be its ‘first of its kind’ product launch in the UK.
Camelbak’s Palos
product, with the show now extended to its two day stint at Vinopolis, London. The show days will start from 9.30am on both Monday and Tuesday and product workshops will run throughout the day. A light lunch will be available between 12.00pm and 2.00pm. All retailers who sign up and attend the show will have the opportunity
“This will be an unmissable event for our retailers.” Julie Ellison, Zyro Now exclusive with Zyro, SKS will be bringing along its latest including the relaunched 2015/2016 Raceblade. Pitched as the benchmark for performance mudguards, the range includes the new Raceblade Long, featuring improved fitting for disk brakes. There’ll be plenty more opportunity to catch all of that new
to take advantage of exclusive show promotions. “With the fantastic growth in attendance over the last few years we continue to build on our Cycle Vision show,” explains Zyro director Julie Ellison. “In enlisting Mary Portas to deliver an Independent Retailer Seminar and hosting our first Independent Retailer Awards,
we have made this an unmissable event for our retailers. As well as being able to see all of our market leading brands in one place, retailers will have the chance to visit our invaluable first look brand workshops and speak directly to our brands.” The brands that will be on show in October are ABUS, Altura, Bell, Blackburn, Bopworx, CamelBak, Cateye, Fenwick’s, Genuine Innovations, Giro, Hamax, Magura, Panaracer, SKS, Tifosi, TORQ and Tortec. Zyro also recently announced their partnership with Myagi, the interesting new product training platform and Cycle Vision will see the training launched for the first time to Zyro retailers. Not only that, but there will also be the chance to enjoy a banquet dinner and the opportunity to mix with other retailers, brand representatives and Zyro staff. Interested retailers should visit www.zyrob2b.co.uk/ cyclevision for further information and to get themselves registered. BIKEBIZ.COM
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DIRT FACTORY
All under one roof: Dirt Factory will be like an ‘indoor snow park, but for bikes’
The Dirty Details Manchester is perhaps just eight short months away from trailblazing the way when it comes to indoor bike parks in the UK. Mark Sutton talks to Dirt Factory founders Danny Makin and Mark McClure about their business plan… THE ENORMITY of the Dirt Factory project is quite staggering. If you’d not heard, plans are well underway to open what would be the UK’s first indoor trail centre just a stones throw from Manchester’s city centre and it’s pitched as “like an indoor snow park, but for bikes.” It’ll feel real, with water from the roof irrigating the trail and grit stone from the Pennines shipped in to replicate the outdoors near perfectly. Inescapable from the attention of any city dweller and bang in the Northern heartlands of the BBC, among other big media, the Dirt Factory is the brainchild of a pair of bike industry trail enthusiasts – Danny Makin and IMBA representative Mark McClure. The proposals will see the build become the first in the UK of its kind, hosting a 32,294 square foot XC flow loop, 14,424 square feet of dirt jumps, a freeride area of some BIKEBIZ.COM
9,150 square feet, two pump tracks at 6,889 square feet for the adults and 979 square feet for the kids, as well as a foam pit and proposed BMX and trials areas. And these are
are equally as exciting. Retail space totalling at least 4,198 square feet will all be part of the framework. With shipping containers making up the bulk of the terrain’s height
“We’re expecting to hit our funding target and open May 2016.” Mark Makin, Dirt Factory conservative estimates, BikeBiz was told. Two locations – a 86,000 and 160,000 square footer are being mooted as you read this. Both can house the pair’s proposals and are city centre based. We can hear the trail of thought – shall I keep dry weather tyres on a little longer? From a rider’s perspective, it’s a dream come true. Finally, the UK winter can’t touch us. But from a business angle, the opportunities
change, the Dirt Factory have a lot of storage space to play around with and that presents opportunities for both long and short term lease business. “We’ll have leases starting from just six months,” explains McClure. “Rents will be available from around £10,000 a year with electricity included, so that’s incredibly good value given that your customer is delivered to your doorstep daily.”
With a funding goal of £500,000, both Makin and McClure have been busy rallying support from the industry and there will soon be a CrowdCube, going live at the end of October, to see the pair hurtle down the home straight. “We’ve already £240,000 in the pot from private investment and Eurobike has potentially seen that stack up further. We presented our plan to a financial advisor at Deloitte and received his personal backing, so we’re expecting to hit our investment target and be ready for a May 2016 opening. There are loose ends, but they’re tying up nicely,” explains Makin. “Once we’re open, the project becomes about so much more than just revenue generation. We’ve both got a background in cycle training and are qualified to train others in coaching. We expect to open with 20 part and full time staff and many of those will be manning BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 49
DIRT FACTORY
Computer generated mock ups of the project give us an idea of what to expect when Dirt Factory opens in spring next year
the courses, making sure everyone’s safe, but also offering personalised advice. We’ve previously done tutoring with special needs kids and kids from disadvantaged backgrounds. There will be a big social element and it’ll all be very inclusive. I’ve a background in trail building, so we’d like to offer classes on that too. Your membership or entry fee will offer real value for money.” With such installations as a foam pit in the building, progression will not only be natural, but scientific, says Makin. “We plan to have an interactive display that will allow users to review their riding and where they’re going wrong. Cameras linked to TVs will without doubt help talent flourish, that’s another goal. For those coming in from out of town, another plan is to offer accommodation. We’ve tossed around plans to offer day trips to 50 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER
trail centres for anyone who wants to explore outside our walls, so in a sense we become a holiday package for serious mountain bikers.” The attention to detail in the business plan is comprehensive. Avenues as diverse as opening
Research has been key to the planning, however. “Throwing together a project that’s not been done before requires knowledge, where available. We found out that Manchester’s snow centre gets
“Our low estimate is 25,000 riders will come in year one.” Mark Makin, Dirt Factory some of the walls up to graffiti artists and hiring out GoPros are being explored. Parents will be able to use a viewing area free of charge, while younger toddlers will have access to an adjacent balance bike area, which doubles as a playground. It’s a family day out, whether you cycle, are considering slinging a leg over, or simply fancy watching with a coffee.
450,000 visitors annually. Our very conservative estimate is that 25,000 mountain bikers will come through our doors in year one, but the mountain biking population in the UK, particularly in a radius around us, is obviously quite large. We’ve seen the figures from the UK’s larger indoor skateparks, many of which are declared as charities and so we’ve some good insight into
our potential. Our demographic doesn’t mind spending the money if it’s worthwhile too.” An annual membership will come in at £100, allowing riders to come and go at will, while single entry fees start at just £5. Everyone passing through will have access on a card system, which will also grant access to changing rooms, showers and even physio. Weekends are expected to be busy times, so the Dirt Factory plans to make use of weekdays by opening up access to educational facilities, corporate fun days and bike industry events. All sounds very ambitious, right? That’s not the half of it. “If all goes to plan, we hope to extend the Dirt Factory. Two more, likely set for London and Edinburgh, would ideally be our goal and we’d like to move on that by the end of this decade, at the latest,” conclude the pair. dirtfactory.org BIKEBIZ.COM
19th - 20th
OCTOBER 2015
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RETAILER
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RETAIL ONLY THE TRADE’S GUIDE TO SOURCING STOCK, UP-AND-COMING IBDS AND THE VERY LATEST PRODUCTS
RETAIL
STATS -0.4% Argos: Quarter 2 2015 results saw the nationwide retailer’s sales decline 0.4 per cent to £897 million
-1%
Selling MTB’s soul? OPINION IT MIGHT HAVE snuck under the radar for those not keeping a trained eye on the electric bike market, but some bold claims have been tossed about lately in relation to a motor’s place on bicycles. Electric market bods have been guilty of speaking perhaps prematurely about the impact of the market in days gone by, so it’s with some curiosity I read about the European head of Focus Bikes suggesting that non-electric mountain bikes will almost cease to exist inside a decade. Take that in. Purists, laugh or be outraged, I’m still with you, I don’t BIKEBIZ.COM
think it’ll be such a short timescale – in the UK at least. As pointed out by Carlton Reid last month, the average UK bike sale price alone will put a stop to commonplace luxury e-bike purchases for a while yet, despite promising signs in specialist stables. Long-term, anything can happen and electrical tech will continue to develop and reduce in price, as has been shown elsewhere. Price aside, legislation for motorised bikes on the trail is an obvious barrier. It is gradually becoming harder to tell which bikes carry assistance, but there are a few motorbike-esque machines around. It’s easy to foresee land owners being very hot on blocking access to these and rashly. Where will that leave the traditional MTB? Could we end up with a situation where licenses to ride off-road are being called for – just like many do for the tarmac go-er. That’s ridiculous, of course, but I can’t imagine this topic escaping mainstream media sensationalists for long. We as an industry need to carefully think about a response when the time comes.
Specialist in the territory Paul Stanforth of EBC recently told me e-MTB growth has seen greater than expected for his firm. Furthermore, the ubiquity of the e-MTB at Eurobike and indeed the numbers on the dedicated test track confirm to me that there’s legs in the market down the line. Will we see a day where motors outstrip willing legs? The cynic in me says it’s inevitable given our gadget addiction and fondness for effortfree fun. The mountain biker in me is wary of change and unsure about selling the soul of it all, even if it does encourage more off the sofa and onto the trails. From a business perspective, this could be one game changing trend with its high-ticket tags that can’t come soon enough, especially for the off-road specialist. Contrarily, those who have been pushing themselves up the UK’s often sloppy, gravelly hills for decades, myself included, will hope this one takes a little longer to come to fruition. msutton@nbmedia.com
SUMMER SALES: Total UK sales fell one per cent in August, excluding new store space (Source BRC)
STORE OF THE MONTH: p59 NEW PRODUCTS: A round-up of some new cycle products available this month.
p54 SECTOR GUIDE: Road bikes and P&A p62 SECTOR GUIDE: Trailers and car racks p67 E-BIKES: Wilier dips in p57 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 53
RETAIL ONLY
NEW PRODUCTS This month we trawl the halls of Eurobike in search of new product to delight your customers. We unearthed new fare from Proviz, Thule, Exposure and Magura on our travels...
PROVIZ PIXELITE RANGE Moore Large FOR THE now very much upon us winter season, Proviz expands upon its successful Reflect lines with the PixElite performance line. Building its famed reflective yarn into a performance fabric, the PixElite is cut for in-thesaddle comfort, offering jackets and gilets, gloves, bib tights,
THULE BACKSPACE Madison jerseys, shoe covers and arm warmers too. Designed and manufactured over in Italy, the garments offer enhanced breathability, along with that famous reactive to light reflective finish that’s embedded in the fabric and as such will stand the test of time and the rigours of winter.
EXPOSURE STRADA Direct to retail A firm favourite among the riders pedalling deep into the night, Exposure’s Strada this year comes in 20 per cent brighter than previously. At £275, the light now offers 1,000 lumens, with an extended field now spanning a 230 degree angle, meaning excellent side visibility. With 54 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER
JUST ONE of many new and interesting additions to the Thule portfolio at Eurobike came in the form of the Backspace container. This add on to the Velospace tow-ball mounted rack offers 300 litres worth of lockable storage, making it perfect for anything from Strollers to golf
clubs – in fact it’ll take anything weighing up to 50kg. What’s more, it’s weatherproof, with welded seams. Collapsible into itself, when not in use the sides roll into the plastic tub base and will sit happily on a shelf out of the way. Expect stock to arrive with Madison in February.
MAGURA VYRON ELECT SEATPOST Zyro the German market’s rules in mind, the light’s beam is a rectangular shape, meaning it won’t dazzle oncoming traffic, instead illuminating the key section of road ahead. Offering three hours of burn on high mode and 300 lumen output for 12 hours straight, this remains a strong option.
A BIG draw for the crowds at Eurobike was Magura’s electronic dropper post. Following on from the clever Elect fork, this 150mm wirelessly controlled post offers smooth hydraulic movement, with an air spring bringing the post back toward the posterior. Weighing 595g, there’s two
versions available, catering for both 30.9 and 31.6mm seat tubes. It’s USB rechargeable, with a charge offering approximately 400 actuations at present. The system is expected to retail in the same region as other performance options, with the price on the booth suggesting €400. BIKEBIZ.COM
Find your Funkier stockist at- www.bob-elliot.co.uk or contact us belowsales@bob-elliot.co.uk, TEL- 01772459887 BIKEBIZ.COM
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ELECTRIC BIKES
Wilier dips into electrics Both men’s and low-step over women’s builds debuted at Eurobike last month, based on Shimano system WILIER HAS debuted a series of electric bikes to sit alongside its portfolio of performance road and mountain bikes. All based around Shimano’s Steps mid-motor system and with the battery stashed inside a rear wheel pannier rack, Wilier’s builds are e-gravel bike-esque in appearance. Yes, between us and Wilier we might just have coined yet another sub-genre. Sorry. The three builds shown were the €2,798 Magneto. This low-step over hydroformed aluminium build comes in at just 21kg. If weight is a concern, your customer’s eyes will be drawn toward the 19.2kg Refill Carbon, which will retail at €4,398. Extras on all builds include a kickstand and mudguards, with stopping power coming from Shimano hydraulics. www.wilier.com
Bosch adds Performance Line CX for e-MTB models Motor has been optimised for off-road, with direct response, higher torque and maximum help on the trail BOSCH HAS debuted a new drive system for the mountain bike world, choosing Eurobike to show of the Performance Line CX. The motor has had its torque boosted a further 15 Newton Metres and now delivers 75NM, enabling faster acceleration and more power at low cadences, vastly improving steep ascents and power out of the corners. What’s more, the torque will remain high at greater cadences. The higher torque is not the only feature that will bring a smile to e-mountain bikers’ faces. In Turbo mode the Performance Line CX provides maximum assistance BIKEBIZ.COM
of up to 300 per cent, which is a perceptible improvement on the Performance Line’s peak of 275 per cent and the Active Line (max. 225 per cent). To ensure that the extra power reaches the rear wheel swiftly and effectively the Performance Line CX has a shift recognition feature that makes perfectly timed, dynamic gear changing possible. For a better climbing performance manufacturers will in future be able to fit a 14-tooth chain ring to the crank that offers extra comfort as a “mountain gear”. It makes a second chain ring superfluous. bosch-ebike.de/en BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 57
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THE BIKE ROOMS
A room with a view As the third to open in The Bike Rooms portfolio, own-brand stores have become a key avenue for Pinarello. Mark Sutton heads down to Regent Street to find out what’s next from the chain… Looking for gear stacked high? Probably best to avoid the Bike Rooms, then
SWINDON, MANCHESTER and now a very affluent London borough. The Bike Rooms is Pinarello’s much required own-brand shop window, complementing a quality, yet admittedly reduced crop of specialist dealers up and down the UK. Tour de France wins and Hour Records do a lot for a bike brand’s desirability and demand in the City is higher than ever. Alan Sugar opened
spokesperson Joe Deacon. Shop spokesperson? That’s an odd job description for someone on the shop floor day-in day-out. “We don’t really have specific roles within the shop, we share the load and responsibility for all aspects equally. It means that when a customer comes through the door they’re not left waiting for the right person to become available, we’re all ready to help, whatever their needs.
“When a customer comes in we’re all ready to help, whatever their needs.” Joe Deacon, The Bike Rooms and occasionally shops at Regent Street’s Bike Rooms, so what about the customer demographic? “I’d suggest it’s a 50/50 split between customers who come in knowing exactly what they want and those that know they want a Pinarello, but need our assistance in explaining which bike is right for them,” says impromptu shop BIKEBIZ.COM
We’ve all been trained to handle the product, be that the mechanics, sales, marketing and bike fitting too.” And for the customer entering, quality service is expected. “We carry the full range of each of the five labels carried, even down to the town and MTBs that many people have never seen from Pinarello. Understandably that’s not something BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 59
THE BIKE ROOMS
Funky apparel and window displays give products plenty of space and lure punters into the store located in the heart of London’s West End, in Regent Street
STORE INFO: TELEPHONE: 0203 761 4388 OPENING TIMES:
10am to 7pm Mon-Fri and 10am to 6pm Saturday
every stockist can do. We’ll offer a free bike fit regardless of the bike and lifetime servicing. As our customer you’re buying into the shop and the lifestyle, so we’ll look after you.” Such a depth of stock places The Bike Rooms firmly on the radar of the UK’s female cyclists, whether beginner or elite, which has perhaps resulted in a stronger than average footfall. “We had found that some women felt intimidated by the bike shop experience. With two large changing rooms for both sexes and a more open plan and inviting layout, we’ve found everyone who comes through the door to be comfortable. I’d say it’s around a 70:30 ratio of male to female custom and erring toward faster growth for women’s cycle sales.” A large flatscreen plays live racing There’s a handful of gents leaning on the counters taking it in as we chat. Kids are keeping themselves occupied with stretched-face selfies on in-store iPads, which double as digital sales aids. A couple more circulate the store observing and no doubt Instagramming the iconic Lotus engineered Boardman Olympic bike from 1992. Plenty more are peering in from the outside, analysing Wiggin’s Hour Record bike. “Given our proximity to Buckingham Palace, we get a lot of tourists, but come lunch time the business really begins,” says Matt Toplis, another of the store’s spokessalesmen. “The variety of paying customer is interesting, our first sale was a nice chap who bought an F8 60 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER
Wanna’ ride like Wiggo? Cunning POS lures in punters
WEB: www.thebikerooms.com and www. pinarelloexperience.com
LOCATION: 4-8 Regent St, London SW1Y 4PE
TWITTER:
@thebikerooms
with the best kit, though uses it for commuting. He actually came with us on our last Pinarello Experience in Mallorca. That’s another avenue we offer customers who are serious about the brand. There’s the chance to fly out to our partners on the island and hire an F8 for around €100 a day. If they decide they enjoy the ride they’ll be diverted to their nearest dealer.” Community spirit is further enhanced with the shop’s Saturday club run rides, which kick off with a freshly made in-store coffee, but that’s not unusual nowadays. It’s the 2,000 square foot showroom, which lets in a copious natural light that lends itself to further engaging what is an open minded and social audience. “You’ll notice art dotted about,” says Toplis. “The units in here all move freely, opening the space up for the occasions where we host events. We’re having a cycling art installation shortly, and before now we’ve hosted the Tour of Britain Party, among other press dos.” So, is there a perk to opening a concept store on one of the UK’s most iconic streets? “It’s a wealthy postcode. There’s a lot of big business here and we’ve some great press coverage with the likes of GQ and High Life lined up. Since opening the store, Alan Sugar has strolled here straight from a House of Commons meet. Pete Tong was another visitor. We’re pleased with the first two months and expect this won’t be the last Bike Rooms branch to open.” BIKEBIZ.COM
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ROAD BIKES & ACCESSORIES
Tools for the tarmac
MADISON
www.madisonb2b.co.uk
Pitched at the endurance road athlete, Ridley’s Fenix SL borrows design inspiration from both the Helium (strength to weight) and the Noah (aero properties). Capable of hosting up to a 30mm tyre, but supplied with a 25, the six build portfolio starts at 105 and tops out with a Dura Ace spec. The back end is fine tuned for races like the Tour of Flanders, while the front combines power transfer with wind slicing speed. That top of the pile build will put £4,999 in the till.
Choosing the right gear for taking on the roads can be tricky, so having the right stock for your audience is vital. Mark Sutton takes a look at some key gear now in stock with distributors.
CHICKEN CYCLEKIT
01525 381347
MOORE LARGE
Tifosi has a number of options for the customer that wants a doeverything steed. Two of the newest models in the Tifosi Gravel range are the carbon fibre Cavazzo and the aluminium Forcella. Both bikes have clearance for 35mm tyres, are supplied with disc brakes and feature the ‘invisible’ mount system. Both bikes have competitive RRPs and offer good margin to Tifosi stockists. More Tifosi models will be announced at the NEC Cycle Show.
01332 274200
PALIGAP
RALEIGH
01454 332110
01773 532600
With Selle San Marco, DMT and FFWD (to name a few) in its stable, Paligap is able to kit out the tarmac go-er with some top kit. FFWD’s Dutch-built wheelsets start at £1,060 and cover everything from track to cyclocross. DMT has reengineered its whole shoe range for 2016. The R1 is top of the range, weighing 225g for a size 41, with an anatomic quarry aerated carbon sole.
Made in Manchester, Lusso’s Aqua Repel jacket is a does-what-itsays-on-the-tin garment, offering guaranteed protection against a water column of 10,000mm. There’s a breathability rating of 10,000gr/m2 x24hr and reflectivity is built in via strips in key areas, while in-the-saddle comfort is taken care of via a long tail, high neck and an SC9 hem gripper, keeping things in place.
62 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER
Forme’s Longcliffe 1.0 is Moore Large’s key contender for those on a typical 105 budget, sneaking in the value for money with performance parts from Mavic and Schwalbe at the wheels and 4ZA for the finishing kit for the cockpit and seatpost. With a 3k carbon fork that offers mudguard eyelets, the Longcliffe is an ideal workhorse or training bike. Not bad for a c2w scheme accessible £900.
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64 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER
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ROAD BIKES & ACCESSORIES
2PURE
0844 811 2001
Entirely new or revamped for 2016, the Merckx catalogue offers a bike for all kinds of rider, including some intriguing new high-end aluminium options. The 1,150 gram Blockhaus 67 frame, named after Merckx’s famously unexpected domination of the Giro d’Italia peloton in the mountains, comes built with triple butted 6069 aluminium alloy tubing, which the firm says is substantially stronger than 6061. As a bike paying homage, the frame is all about attention to detail, with smooth double-pass welding, internal routing for the mechanical brakes and some clever working of the seatstays for enhanced comfort. On the gravel bike front, look out for the Strasbourg 71, offering 40mm tyre clearance, as well as the 69 Mourenx, now available clad with Shimano 685 discs.
FISHER OUTDOOR
01727 798340
Zipp’s Quickview TT computer mount is an uncomplicated aero bar extension that is easy to install, lightweight and vibration and slipfree. As touched on elsewhere in this issue, Fisher also brings Muc Off’s new Hydrodynamic Lube, developed with Team Sky, as well as the new cream and balm ranges.
DAWES CYCLES
0121 7488050
Dawes offers a broad selection of road bikes to suit nearly all age groups, budgets and genders. Starting with the 20-inch wheel Dawes Sprint, aimed at children from the age of six years old, right up to the full carbon fibre Giro Alto, with its race ready specification and impressively competitive price tag – there’s something for all the family. Newly developed adventure road models have been a highlight of the 2015 range, offering an ideal platform for the new breed of “credit-card-touring” cyclists, as well as being a perfect winter training bike. Re-introducing a full titanium frameset, the 3IMA Ti is built to impress.
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ZYRO www.zyrob2b.co.uk Altura introduces “Darkproof” to the cycling market in its performance engineered Night Vision Waterproof Glove, with the added bonus of NV360° Flow Zone reflectivity. The Commuter Waterproof Night Vision glove has been designed and developed through ride research and now features an adjustable cuff construction to ensure a snug and comfortable fit. There’s re-enforced padding on the palm and silicon palm print for enhanced grip and comfort. In addition, the waterproof gloves have micro-suede moisture wipes and Altura’s Thermo suede lining for enhanced insulation to keep you warm, dry and comfortable.
BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 65
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ROAD BIKES & ACCESSORIES
ISON
MET
01353 662662
Noticeably different in its design, MET’s Manta helmet is touted the brand’s fastest closed aero helmet. This extremely aerodynamic and low profile shape delivers in the wind tunnel a saving of 10 watts at 50km/h. Aerodynamic is only part of the pull for serious roadies, with the claimed weight coming in at 200 grams, making it one of the lightest closed aero lids on the market. On the road functionality is boosted further with reflective detailing. Most important of all is the way the helmet handles a crash and in the Manta’s case, the force of a high speed crash will dissipate over the entire helmet, instead of remaining in a localised area.
In response to sportive rider demand, Ison has introduced a Genetic rear fender (mudguard) to stop the worst of the dirt. Easy to fit, weighing almost nothing, noise-free and hardly noticeable, the 72 gram fender blends a Carbon Fibre shaft and Polycarbonate guard to offer simple protection. The £47.50 unit is compatible with 700 by 25c tyres.
sales@met-helmets.com
POLARIS
SILVERFISH
polaris-bikewear.co.uk
Californian road and cross bike manufacturers, Ritte, are available exclusively in the UK via Silverfish UK. From the race winning and media acclaimed Ritte Ace to the CX Ritte Crossberg, the company makes some truly eye-catching frames. The latest to be launched is the Ritte Snob Disc. This stainless steel frameset is, as the name implies, disc ready. The use of stainless steel means that it won’t corrode over time and provides a crisp, solid ride quality with comfort built in for all -day rides. The frameset retails at £1999 and is available in sizes from 52 to 58cm.
The Fuse is Polaris’ new waterproof cycling jacket for Autumn Winter 2015/2016. This 2.5 layer waterproof is perfect for road riding with its tailored fit, but wouldn’t look out of place on the trail making it a cycling wardrobe staple. Constructed using lightweight stretch waterproof fabric, the Fuse will adapt to the body’s movement and the added reflective prints offer increased visibility in low light conditions. The colour blocked eye catching design will then ensure you are also clearly visible in daylight. Three rear storage pockets allow plenty of space for tubes and pumps, while a zipped security pocket ensures you have room for valuables on the ride.
BIKEBIZ.COM
www.silverfish-uk.com
BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 67
RACKS AND TRAILERS
Rack ‘em up Is your customer complaining about the lack of decent cycling in the locality? Then why not provide them with a few rack options to extend their cycling opportunities? And how about a few kids trailers too, to keep families in the saddle longer, writes Jonathon Harker…
FISHER OUTDOOR LEISURE 01727 798340 THE TALON QR is one of the options available from SeaSucker – a brand that prides itself on producing bike carriers that are easy to install and won’t damage your car. SeaSucker bike racks use incredibly strong vacuum mounts and allow users to temporarily but securely mount their bike to the roof of their car without the hassle of permanently attaching any hardware.
MOORE LARGE 01332 274200 ONTO KIDS trailers, and the brand new Patrol kids trailer from Outeredge comes in a Duo and Solo version. The alloy-framed trailer with speedy folding mechanism conforms to EN15918 standards and can be converted to a jogger by adding the wheel kit (sold separately). Other accessories are a removable sunshade and baby shell insert for infants. The single Patrol retails at £369.99 and the Duo at £389.99.
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CHICKEN CYCLEKIT 01525 381347 JETBLACK introduced their bike racks to the UK in early 2014 and their newest addition, the Trunk Rack Pro, is a highly compatible, value rack. Chicken Cyclekit’s JetBlack brand manager Jason Smith tells us: “It’s one of the simplest, most compatible, no fuss racks on the market at an unbeatable price”. The Trunk Rack Pro uses JetBlack’s patented Easy-Fit-System and fits any type of bicycle and fits saloon cars, estate cars and vans.
MADISON www.madisonb2b.co.uk THULE’S 925 VeloCompact 2-bike towball 7-pin retails at £319.99 and is part of the next generation of compact and lightweight bike carriers for everyday use. The new clamp ‘hangs’ the carrier on the hitch before tightening, allowing easy adjustment of the carrier before closing the clamp to fix it in position. Mounting the bikes is easy via detachable arms and you can get into the boot even when attached.
PENDLE BIKE RACKS
01282 699555
Pendle has a comprehensive range of made-in-England car racks and trailers for bike shops to stock. Amongst the wide variety of options are roof racks, strap on racks, tandem racks, 2/3/4 bike tow-bar racks and type approved trailers for six or 12 bikes. There are even heavy-duty versions available for downhill or electric bikes. Find out more via www.pendle-bike.co.uk.
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If you’d like to find out more or require additional copies please contact rsetters@nbmedia.com or call him on 01992 535647
In association with
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ATG TRAINING - HEAD OFFICE Future Centre, Smeaton Close, Aylesbury, Bucks, HP19 8SZ Tel: 01296 737815 Web: www.atg-training.co.uk
ANSMANN UK e-BIKE centre, Unit 12, RO24, Harlow Business Park, Harlow, Essex, CM19 5QB Tel: 0870 609 2233 Web: www.ansmann.co.uk
CYCLEGUARD INSURANCE Southgate house, Southgate Street, Gloucester, GL1 1UB Tel: 0844 826 2297 Web: www.cycleguard.co.uk
CYCLEPLAN The Royals, Altrincham Road, Manchester, M22 4BJ Tel: 08000 92 92 68 Web: www.insure4sport.co.uk/cycleplan proudly presents
BIKE SOUP 55a North Wharf Road, London, W2 1LA Tel: 020 72982784 Web: www.bikesoup.com
BOB ELLIOT AND CO LTD Unit C4 Binary Court, Matrix Park, Western Avenue, Buckshaw Village, Chorley, PR7 7NB Tel: 01772 459 887 Web: www.bob-elliot.co.uk
BUFFERA LIMITED Cranborne House, Cranbourne Road, Potters Bar, Hertfordshire, EN6 3JN Tel: 01707 852244 Web: www.buffwear.co.uk
BTR DIRECT LTD 148 Portland Road, Hove, East Sussex, BN3 5QL Tel: 01273 205945 Web: www.btrdirect.co.uk
CYCLING SCOTLAND 24 Blythswood Square, Glasgow, G2 4BG Tel: 0141 229 5350 Web: www.cyclingscotland.org
EBCO 5 Pegasus House, Olympus Ave, Warwick, CV34 6LW Tel: Tel +01926 437700 Web: www.ebco-ebikes.co.uk
DARE2B Unit 8-9 Mercury Park, Mercury Way, Urmston, Manchester, M41 7LY Tel: 0844 811 2939 Web: www.dare2b.com
EVOLUTION IMPORTS 27 Widmore Road, Bromley, Kent, BR1 1RW Tel: 0208 290 0807 Web: www.evolutionimports.
CONTINENTAL North Parade, Aberystwyth, Ceredigion, Wales, SY23 2JR Tel: 01970 626777 Web: www.conti-tyres.co.uk
FAT BOY IMPORTS Unit 10, Weavers Corner, Hampson St, Horwich, BL6 7JH Tel: 07966 401165 Web: www.fatboyimports.com
CUSTOM SPORTS CLOTHING LTD Tel: 07875 095 793 Web: www.customsportsclothing.com
FISHER OUTDOOR LEISURE LIMITED 8/9 Brick Knoll Park, Ashley Road, St Albans, Herts, AL1 5UG Tel: 01727 798345 Web: www.fisheroutdoor.co.uk
FROG BIKES Tel: 01784 557300 Web: www.frogbikes.com
HARDNUTZ Unit 8 Rocheview off Millhead Way, Purdeys Industrial Estate, Rochford, Essex, SS4 1LB Tel: 01702 530090 Web: www.hardnutz.com
HOTLINES EUROPE LTD Unit 17 The Loan, Viewforthbank Industrial Estate, South Queensferry, EH30 9SD Tel: 0131 319 1444 Web: www.hotlines-uk.com www.hotlines-europe.com
I-RIDE 7-8B Mid Sussex Business Park, Ditchling Common Industrial Estate, Folders Lane East, Ditchling, Sussex, BN6 8SE Tel: 01444243000 Web: www.i-ride.co.uk
JUNGLE PRODUCTS LTD Unit 3, The Cedar, New York Mills, Summerbridge, HG3 4LA Tel: 01423 780088 Web: www.jungleproducts.co.uk and www.santacruzbikes.co.uk
LEATHERMAN Aynam Mills, Canal Head North, Kendal, Cumbria, LA9 7BY Tel: 01539 729573 Web: www.whitbyandco.co.uk
M & J DISTRIBUTORS LTD Unit A, Hanix Buildings, Windmill Lane, Denton, Manchester, M34 3SP Tel: 0161 337 9600 Web: www.mjdist.co.uk
MARA MEDIA Unit 5 Teach na Rosann, Annagry, County Donegal, Rep of Ireland Tel: 353 (0) 74 954 8935 Web: www.maramedia.ie
The BikeBiz Directory 2015 is out now, providing the industry with a must-have guide to the UK’s retailers, distributors, manufacturers and related businesses. DISTRIBUTION AND WHOLESALE
E-COMMERCE AND EPOS
EVENT ORGANISERS, HOSTING, HOLIDAY AND HIRE
MAVIC Theta Building, Lyon Way, Frimley, Surrey, GU16 7ER Tel: 01276 404870
MEALOR-CLARKE CYCLE SPARES LTD Unit 1, Eastlands Road, Leiston, Suffolk, IP16 4LL Tel: 01728830055/01728605970 Web: www.mealorclarkecyclespares.com
MERIDA BICYCLES LTD Unit 13, Nottingham South and Wilford Industrial Estate, Ruddington Lane, Wilford, Nottingham, NG11 7EP Tel: 0115 981 7788 Web: www.merida.com
MOORE LARGE AND CO LTD Sinfin Lane Industrial Estate, Sinfin Lane, Derby, DE24 9GL Tel: 01332 274252 Web: www.moorelarge.co.uk
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MARKETING, PR AND CONSULTANCY
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SERVICES AND TRAINING
RALEIGH UK LTD Church Street, Eastwood, Nottingham, NG16 3HT Tel: 01773 532600 Web: www.raleigh.co.uk www.cyclelife.com www.diamondback.co.uk
CYCLE SHOW, THE 58 White Lion Street, Islington, London, N1 9PP Tel: 020 7288 6733 Web: www.cycleshow.co.uk
RED CLOUD MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS Delfan, Llangyniew, Welshpool, Powys, SY21 0JS Tel: 01938 810873 Web: www.redcloudmc.com
VELOTECH SERVICES LTD 26-27 Western Road, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 0AH Tel: 0845 475 5339 Web: www.velotechservices.co.uk
REECE CYCLES PLC 100 Alcester Street, Birmingham, B12 0QB Tel: 0121 622 0180 Web: www.reececycles.co.uk
WALKERS CYCLE COMPONENTS LTD 22 Holywell Road, Leicester, LE2 8SG Tel: 01162 833885 Web: www.walkerscycles.co.uk
SCHWALBE TYRES UK LTD Schwalbe Centre, Hortonwood 30, Telford, Shropshire, TF1 7ET Tel: 01952 602680 Web: www.schwalbe.co.uk
WELDTITE PRODUCTS LTD Unit 9 Harrier Road, Humber Bridge Industrial Estate, Barton-on-Humber, Lincs, DN18 5RP Tel: 01652 660000 Web: www.weldtite.co.uk
SEE.SENSE (LIMEFORGE LTD) Sketrick House, Jubilee Road, Newtownards, BT23 4YH Tel: 02891 800536 Web: www.seesense.cc
WINDWAVE Unit D2 and D3 Heritage Business Park, Heritage Way, Gosport, Hampshire, PO12 4BG Tel: 02392 521912 Web: www.windwave.co.uk
SILVERFISH UK LTD Unit 3C and 3B Woodacre Court, Saltash Parkway Industrial Estate, Burraton Road, Saltash, Cornwall, PL12 6LY Tel: 01752 843882 Web: www.silverfish-uk.com
ZYRO LTD Roundhouse Road, Faverdale Industrial Estate, Darlington, DL30UR Tel: 01325 741200 Web: www.zyro.co.uk / www.zyrob2b.co.uk
cc
PALIGAP LTD Unit 2 Danbury House, Great Western Park, Armstrong Way, Yate, Bristol, BS37 5NG Tel: 01454 313 116 Web: www.paligapltd.co.uk
PARKLIFE (HAVANT) LTD Unit 5, Butterick Building, New Lane, Havant, P09 2ND Tel: 02392 475895
PEAK DEVELOPMENT 2 Flanders Park, Hedge End, Southampton, Hants, SO30 2FZ Tel: 01489 796979 Web: www.peak-uk.com
POWACYCLE Akhter House, Perry Road, Harlow, Essex, CM18 7PN Tel: 01279 821243 Web: www.powacycle.co.uk
SQUIRT Unit 10 Quadrum Park, Old Portsmouth Road, Peasmarsh, Surrey, GU3 1LU Web: www.in2dust.co.uk
THE CYCLE DIVISION Unit 27 Gatehouse Enterprise Centre, Albert Street, Lockwood, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD1 3QD Tel: 01484 456137 Web: www.thecycledivision.com
BikeBiz Directory 2015 is now available to view online at www.bikebiz.com
72 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER
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“Get your act together” © PIC CREDIT : Carlton Reid
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THE CANCELLATION of a cycle road race in South Yorkshire this summer [Tumby’s] over concerns for safety gives me cause for concern. My earliest memory of cycling is on a piece of wood tied to the cross-bar of my grandad’s (work/touring) bicycle: I have a photograph of me on my three-wheeler; blue and white I recall; taken on a local park. I got it for my third Christmas in 1950. In 1955, I got my first two-wheeler and it wasn’t long before I was hankering for a ‘racer’. On the two mile walk from school, nose pressed against the (Bert Lomax) bike shop window, I would wish for a Reg Harris with ten gears: far too expensive, I built one from ‘bits’ I found around my estate. Aged ten, I toured Scotland with my granddad; having moved to Radcliffe, (Lancashire then) I rode ‘home’ to Edinburgh to impress him. I started racing – under British Cycling Federation (BCF) rules – when I was aged-17. The same year, despite all my cycling skill and experience, I was knocked off by a careless driver on the way home from my local cycling club – Prestwich Phoenix. Eleven more such incidents followed: from uncontrolled dogs to opening doors, I’ve suffered them all. I recall the deaths of Commonwealth Games gold medallist, Peter Buckley, (uncontrolled dog) and silver medallist Pete Longbottom – he was struck from behind by a (speeding) white Nissan. Aged-43, just moments after competing in a BCF road race, I too was struck from behind
– by a metal pole protruding from a passing wagon. Doctors said that, ‘had I not been so fit, I probably wouldn’t have survived.’ To say I was disturbed that the driver was fined £100 and received three points would be a gross understatement. I had to wait eleven years to receive compensation. I was even more disturbed by the Rhyl CC tragedy which claimed the lives of four cyclists (Thomas Harland, the age of my youngest grandson, and Maurice Broadbent, who I raced and trained with) and the driver receiving a £180 fine. Over the last 15 years, I’ve spent a month racing in Belgium. It’s where every Tour de France wannabe must go. With races for schoolboys to 80-year-olds, the roads are closed to oncoming traffic. The village where I stay (Laarne, Ghent) hosts over 20 events a year: the locals love them. Indeed, Belgium loves cycling. Suffice to say, British Cycling, the Minister for Road Safety, the Minister for Justice and the Crown Prosecution Service, need to ‘get their act together’. We once had The Milk Race: just as children need milk, they need safe cycling – every driver should be made to ride a bicycle; it should be compulsory; it would be more beneficial to Britain than a Blue Badge! Allan Ramsay Member of RoadPeace – the national charity for road traffic victims. You can have your say by contacting us at BikeBiz@nbmedia.com
@bikebizonline “Amazing @Chris_Boardman wants to go to Utrecht with DfT officials to see lessons on cycling for UK but got no reply.” Christian Wolmar (@Wolmarforlondon) “It’s great to see others in the cycling industry joining us in signing up to @LivingWageUK.” @Islabikes “#Cambridge, Britain’s Silicon Valley, wants to be a city of cyclists in the future! Some might say it already is.” ThisIsWhereIStudy (@TIWISinUK) “This is great news – @cycletoworkday was the biggest ever this year. Well done guys!” Shrewsbury GrandPrix (@ShrewsGrandPrix) “Cycling cooperative opening near Richmond Park this week – great idea, good luck to them.” Andrew Gadaros (@ABGaccountancy) “Congratulations to Russell – good job fella! “England-based Brit put in charge of CSG North America”” Matt Ryley – Upgrade (@MattUpgrade)
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OFF TRACK
OFF TRACK
THE TRADE’S ROUND UP OF STATS, VIEWS AND RANDOMS
NUMBER CRUNCHING This month we fire up the BikeBiz time machine and look to the future and into the past, while also providing present day facts. You’re welcome.
11%
r w an 11 pe Halfords sa g in in cl cy or-like in ride t cent like-f n ce r e p a +26 be t a Q2, despite air. Could th e in d in cycle rep a tr r e of the wid indicative er, we ting summ o p a disap in wonder?
5.2m Over 5.2 Million people in the UK cycle at least once a month; and over one-fifth of UK cyclists participate at least once a week.
1976
That’s when Assos was founded by Tony MaierMoussa. It has been a family business since then…until now, having been bought by a consortium of investors, including Phil Duff of ski brand Black Diamond.
2017
is the in Holland Valkenburg rience e himano Exp rowing site for a S , g in sh bining fi Center, com g, in fun attractions clin and yes, cy o Land is to rs. Shiman o it is for v 17. open in 20
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2065
British cities of 2065 will be teeming with tech of the 1860s (bicycles of course). That’s according to the Foresight Project, started in 2013 by the Government Office for Science. Why? That’s all we’ll have room for. More than half of all Brits live in 63 cities.
BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 79
OFF TRACK
IN THE SADDLE I N
A S S O C I AT I O N
W I T H
VOXWOMEN HEAD DOWN UNDER THE VOXWOMEN Cycling Show is to be broadcast in Australia thanks to a deal with network SBS. The 30 minute lifestyle show was broadcast at the end of last month and is also available on catch up. In addition to SBS, Voxwomen fans will be able to catch the show on British Eurosport, Bloomberg’s European, Middle East and Asian Network and ‘net channel Cycling.TV. More info at www.voxwomen.com
f i ’z i : k
Blake Lavelle, Customer Service Manager, Pashley How many bikes do you own and where do you ride? I’m currently down to just three bikes; it used to be around six or seven! This includes my singlespeed Porteur that I ride to work on daily. Warwickshire is on the edge of the Cotswolds which offers beautiful routes on and off-road – and plenty of decent coffee shops! Describe your role at Pashley: My role at Pashley is mainly centred on Customer Service and warranty, I take care of queries from our dealers and organise any parts that may be required under warranty conditions, I also answer queries from Pashley customers; as we only supply bicycles and parts through dealers I always direct them to their nearest retailer and this is a great way to maintain support for the great bike shops that stock our range. What projects are keeping you busy at present? The team have just returned from Eurobike where they displayed a number of brand new models, These include some radical departures from our normal style including a Reynolds 531/653 steel road bike with a Campagnolo group, which has been named the “Roadfinder” which perfectly complements our new Pathfinder range, as well as a three speed Porteur bicycle with disc brakes and a Reynolds tube frame, This one we have called “The Butler” – these bikes and a couple more will be on display at Interbike, Las Vegas later this month. How can the trade get in touch? I take care of our main email address: hello@pashley. co.uk or I can be reached on 01789 292263. Whilst we do keep our factory doors shut to members of the public we are always happy to give our dealers a tour of our place and show them how our bicycles are made, I think it’s a great opportunity for shop managers and staff to see how the bicycles are really made and meet the people behind each stage of production, assembly and despatch. If any shops do fancy a tour, it’s best to give us a call beforehand so we can get the coffee on!
80 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER
ALL TERRAIN RIDER HITS THE ALPS TEN YEAR old Bjoern Koerdt from Bramhope, Leeds has tackled the famously tough penultimate stage of the Tour de France, through the French Alps and culminating in a mountain top finish. Koerdt, the youngest member of Yorkshire cycle retailer All Terrain Cycles’ racing team, climbed 15,429 ft across 110km and 21 bends of some of the most challenging terrain in Alpe d’Huez. With his father Lars, Bjoern raised nearly £1,000 for Martin House Hospice in Boston Spa, Wetherby. Bike retailer All Terrain Cycles backed the ride with kit, bikes, technical support and training advice.
RIDER READS: BIKE PORN MOUNTAIN BIKES CHRIS NAYLOR’S Bike Porn – Mountain Bikes sticks close to the concept and keeps words to the absolute minimum. In fact you’re lucky if you find more than a sentence adorning one page, but that’s all because the pictures – including close ups, action shots and lovingly posed bike pics – are the real attraction here. Bike Porn – Mountain Bikes is published by Summersdale, priced at £14.99 and is out this month in plenty of time of Christmas.
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OFF TRACK
Daniel Gillborn, Director
CELEBRATE UTILITY CYCLING CYCLE TO Work Day continues to go from strength-to-strength. The celebration of utility cycling has gained a status and achieved results which are amazing for a three year old (event)! Partners such as Bike Week, Ride to Work Week and Transport for London mean that the day extends into a whole season of events. We are continuing to see a rise in the interest of changing commuter habits. There is a growing thirst from employers in health and wellbeing, both physically and mentally. Health and wellbeing areas now tops the list for every FTSE 100 company’s HR department. The day is a key focus for everyone in the
workplace, from employees and employers to the trade. It delivers from everyone’s perspective, from health and wellbeing for employees, productivity for employers and revenue opportunities for the bike trade. Cyclescheme, as founders of Cycle to Work Day, will continue to work with all cycling-related parties, and to use the event to support cycle to work as a behavioural change and as a key opportunity for the trade. We would like to thank everyone in the cycle industry for your continued support of Cycle to Work Day, and are excited to have received a nomination as a finalist in the BikeBiz Awards 2015.
Daniel Gillborn is director of Cyclescheme, the UK’s leading provider of tax-free bikes for work. You can reach him on Twitter @cycleschemeltd
QUOTE UNQUOTE For more on these stories, head to www.BikeBiz.com
“The fears some people had about mentioning safety to prospective new cyclists look to be groundless.” Dr Ian Walker of the University of Bath’s Department of Psychology. Read more at BikeBiz.com (search for ‘cycling is dangerous’).
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’S INSIGHT CYCLE TRADER
Melissa Rollins, Business Development - UK, Henty How long have you been with Henty? I have been with Henty for three years. I started out working with the founders, Jon and Jez, when they launched the Wingman, a suit carrier for cyclists, in the UK in 2012. The guys are based in Australia so my role is overseeing Henty in the UK and Ireland. At the start of 2014 I started my own company to officially be the UK and Ireland distributor for Henty Products. How long have you been in the industry? Henty is my first foray in the bike industry. I was a criminal defence lawyer in my previous life so lots of useful experiences to carry over! What¹s the best thing about the industry? It’s really refreshing to be involved in an industry where so many people are working on something they love. Everyday is different and brings a new challenge. I’m having fun working on different sides of the business and enjoy liaising with national chains, independent stores, online retailers and Henty customers direct. What’s the best part of your job? And worst? The best part is speaking to customers both retail and trade who love our products. It’s a great feeling when someone tells you they have been searching for a product that solves their problem of commuting with there suit and are so please to find it. The worst part… juggling work life with looking after my 20 month old daughter. What are you working on at the moment? We have a new product range called the Henty Tube which has just arrived in the UK. It’s the ultimate dry bag for cyclists, triathletes and open water swimmers. The Tube’s main compartment acts like a dry bag. A second compartment allows you to transport your clean clothes separate from any wet or dirty gear. I’m currently introducing the Tube to Henty retailers and reaching out to new ones. We’re showing it off at the NEC Cycle Show (stand G14). melissa@henty.cc
BIKEBIZ OCTOBER 81
LAST WORD
Jaw-jaw is always better than war-war Romania’s got one. There’s a new one in Flanders. And Portugal has an aluminium one. Carlton Reid asks why England doesn’t have a Bike Valley. BACK IN 2005 Jim McGurn of the Company of Cyclists proposed to open Bikeland in Derbyshire, a £33m bicycle theme-park. Despite a feasibility study grant of £65,000 it never got off the ground. McGurn was ahead of his time. Today, such a theme-park would ride on the back of cycling’s popularity. At least that’s what Shimano is banking on. As we report elsewhere in this issue the Japanese component maker is to open a Shimano-based themepark in 2017, converting a former brewery site in the Netherlands into a multi-activity centre. As well as cycling activities there will be fishing exhibits, and there’ll also be a lot of rowing, which is apt because cyclists are great at rowing – cyclists row about helmets, separated cycle infrastructure and whether it’s economically wise to buy inner tubes from bike shops. (It is. For bike shops.) The Shimano Experience Centre will also house a café, a museum and, no doubt, a shop. And Shimano isn’t the only one getting into the all-under-one-roof game. As reported on our news pages BikeVille in Belgium is rising from the ground as we speak. It’s a collaboration between Ridley, BioRacer and a whole bunch of other bike companies. As well as a wind tunnel BikeVille will house a store and a “sport restaurant”. BikeVille is the centrepiece of the Flanders Bike Valley, a tech collective created with financial support from the government of Flanders, and modelled on Flanders Drive, a cluster of automotive companies. Fifty cycle-related companies are now members of
How the Shimano Experience Centre will look
Flanders Bike Valley, with some based within one km of BikeVille. In reality, neither BikeVille nor the Shimano Experience Centre are theme-parks as most people would understand them but they’re fascinating nevertheless. BikeVille, in particular, is a concept worth watching, partly because of the cooperation between the organising companies. And the Flanders Bike Valley isn’t the only example of such “clustering”. There are at least two other “Bicycle Valleys” – one in Portugal, and one in Romania. Bike Valley Portugal is a collaboration between Rodi, Miranda, Polisport and others, based in the small but hilly city of Agueda. Brought together by ABIMOTA (Portugal’s association of bicycle, motorcycle and accessories producers) Bike Valley Portugal is organised around aluminium
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82 BIKEBIZ OCTOBER
frames and parts production. Unlike the Flanders Bike Valley which is a cluster in close proximity the Romania Bike Valley is made up of bike and component makers spread a little bit further apart. Why cluster? It gives the companies competitive advantages. Banks have been doing it for centuries, and car companies have been doing it since the early 1900s, copying the bicycle industry which kicked off the clustering around Birmingham and Coventry. In an era of global competition, rapid transport and high-speed telecommunications there should be little need for geographical clusterings but they still offer benefits such as a pool of skilled workers and economies of scale. They can also stimulate innovation, even between what would be considered competing businesses. And if other countries are doing it
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for bikes, the obvious question has got to be why isn’t there a British Bike Valley? In a way, there is. The MTB Centre of Scotland, based at the Glentress trail centre, is a cluster of sorts. It has a business incubation service, and is already the go-to place for MTB product testing. Supported with Scottish enterprise money it gives grants to Scottish bike companies. The MTB Centre of Scotland also offers market research, development links with academia and testing on the world-class MTB trails of Glentress. So isn’t it about time a few companies got together to form an English Bike Valley? Brompton, Muc-Off, Hope, Pashley, Brooks, Carradice, Charge, Fabric and others are not geographically close (though three are in Poole) but they don’t necessarily have to be. The secret is cooperation rather than being sited on the same estate.
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