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B U S I N E S S
DECEMBER 2015
ISSUE 119
ISSUE 119 DECEMBER 2015
@bikebizonline | facebook.com/bikebiz
F O R
I N
E V E R Y O N E
T H E
B I K E
p24 Media’s high flyers
p31 Over the Irish Sea
We celebrate the great and the good of the bike media world at the Cycling Media Awards. Get the full story from the night on p 24
Strong cycle commuter numbers and a thriving race scene…it’s all in our focus on both Ireland and Northern Ireland
B U S I N E S S p15 Locks up Kryptonite’s owner Allegion has bought rival lock firm Axa to grab more market share. BikeBiz speaks with Kryptonite boss Nick Watkin for the inside story
The results are in...
We’ve polled bike shops and pulled together opinions from the market to provide you with an insight into how the UK cycle retail market really performed in 2015. Read on for the views from the front line…
p48
p41 One Vision
p9 & 18 Northants calling
p72 Bike Shop Tools
p66 Wheel good market
Zyro’s Cycle Vision show saw product debuts at Vinopolis
Both Core Bike and the Bike Place take place next month.
Colin Rees provides more hints and tips to boost business
Tyres, tubes and wheels are all covered in our sector guide
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NEWS
Still “huge potential” for cycle to work DESPITE RECENT speculation there is no confirmation of a rise for the £1,000 cycle to work threshold (at least at time of press), but there’s still massive potential for growth in the C2W sector, according to Steve Edgell, Cycle Solutions director and chair of the Cycle to Work Alliance. Speaking to BikeBiz, Edgell outlined the way Cycle Solutions is reaching out to work with independent bike dealers and how C2W has helped prop up bike sales. The firm’s research has revealed that 72 per cent of employees would not have bought their bike if it had not been offered through the scheme. Edgell said: “It’s been central to the boom in cycle sales over recent years, and has really boosted the bike industry.” The prospects remains huge, he added: “Surprisingly there are still many employers who are not aware of the cycle to work scheme and the benefits it can bring. When we spoke to visitors at
EDITOR’S COMMENT MONEY’S CHANGING HANDS...
this year’s Cycle Show we found that only 55 per cent of them were able to access a cycle to work scheme at their workplace. This clearly shows that there is a huge potential for the cycle to work market to grow.” “We’ve had a really warm response [from IBDs]. Our bike store partners have been happy to work with Cycle Solutions as they recognise the increased business volumes we can drive to their stores.” Read more at www.BikeBiz.com
INDIVIDUAL BIKE retailers were singled out for praise by Zyro in its first Retailer Awards, held as part of its recent Cycle Vision Show at Vinopolis. The show, incorporated product debuts and workshops included a seminar session for dealers with retail guru Mary Portas. THE WINNERS OF THE INAUGURAL AWARDS WERE: Q Abus Helmet Retailer of the Year: Eurocycles Q Abus Locks Retailer of the Year: Cycle Heaven Q Altura Apparel Retailer of the Year: Bike Bristol and Ralph Colman Cycles Q Altura Luggage Retailer of the Year: Cycle Centre Congleton Q Bell Retailer of the Year: Bikepark Wales and Pedalabikeaway Q Blackburn Retailer of the Year: Fawkes Cycles Q Camelbak Retailer of the Year: Leisure Lakes Q Cateye Retailer of the Year: The Bike Factory Q Fenwick’s Retailer of the Year: Mountain Mania Cycles Q Genuine Innovations Retailer of the Year: Pedal Heaven Q Giro Footwear Retailer of the Year: Cycles UK Q Giro Helmet Retailer of the Year: Sigma Sport Q Hamax Retailer of the Year: Apex Cycles Q Panaracer Retailer of the Year: Wheelworx Q SKS Retailer of the Year: The Bike Factory Q Tifosi Retailer of the Year: Hargroves Cycles Q Torq Retailer of the Year: Chevin Cycles Q Tortec Retailer of the Year: Bikes You Like
FOR ME, 2015 will be a year of acquisitions and proof that the corporate world and financial markets still see lots of potential in the UK cycle market. Who got bought out in the last 12 months? It’s a long list: Evans Cycles was acquired by ECI Partners, Cycle Surgery (and the rest of Snow+Rock) was bought by Cotswold Outdoor owner AS Adventure. Then there was Santa Cruz, Bergamont, 3T, Recon Instrument, UK Cycling Events and Avocet Sports (more on that over the page). All acquired in 2015. And those are just the ones I have remembered while hastily bashing out this column on press day. And it’s fair to say there have been a few more corporate backers prepared to spend some cash on new brands launching into the cycle market. That’s a nice positive to take away from the year, when the humdrum reality of bike retail has been rather less exciting, by most accounts, with the rubbish summer among the reasons for a disappointing year at the tills. As the media switches onto cycling in a bigger way there’s more coverage and outlets featuring cycling, which is great news of course, but it does rather give the impression that cycling is going great guns year-on-year, which no doubt played some role in those investors deciding that ‘this is the year we’re going to get into cycling’ and buy x or launch y. In short, the market is not exactly showing any signs of becoming less crowded (page 48). So unless you’re thinking of pedalling off into the sunset, it’s time to knuckle down for another super competitive 12 months, with no doubt a few more investors tempted to snap up bike trade names too. jharker@nbmedia.com
Read more on Zyro’s Cycle Vision Show on page 41
BIKEBIZ.COM
BIKEBIZ DECEMBER 5
NEWS
ANALYSIS: Building a picture of bike retail in 2015 2015 HAS been a year of mixed fortunes for the cycle trade. Thanks to our research (BikeBiz Retail Survey 2015, page 48) and company financials we can piece together a snapshot of the cycle market in 2015. The majority of IBDs revealed that the start of the year was average to strong, but thanks to the lacklustre summer and possibly other factors, such as increased competition, trade drastically dropped off for the majority. That’s a picture backed by Halfords’ interim results. The nationwide retailer confirmed it had seen “weak cycle sales” in July and August and CEO Jill McDonald branded Q2 cycling performance as “disappointing”. While Wiggle saw sales rise 26 per cent in the UK in its last
financials, up to £179m, that data only goes up to Feb 1st 2015. Likewise Chain Reaction Cycles’ latest data largely covers 2014 (when sales were up six per cent to over £154m). Therefore the impact of the online cycle traders on the market and the indication they give
Halfords’ results confirmed that the summer was widely poor for cycle sales.
of the overall performance of cycle retail in 2015 remains to be seen. Worldwide cycle giants like Dorel Sports, Accell and Shimano reported growth in 2015 so far, but the UK has not been singled out in interim financials yet, which might be telling in itself. The trio picked out the weather as affecting demand in Europe while Accell and Shimano singled out strong sales in e-bike product, we have to assume, in continental Europe. As fuller financials trickle in we’ll have a better picture of the full state of the market in 2015, but all the evidence so far confirms the rather glum view that the market couldn’t overcome a middling summer. While the trade could do with another Grand Depart or Giro Big Start to move things along, the Rio Olympics may offer some joy.
Fisher: ‘If you get distribution wrong, you alienate IBDs’
Fisher boss James Browning
FISHER OUTDOOR Leisure has been bolstering its offering for IBDs
of late, introducing new ways to support independent businesses while ensuring it is offering brands plenty of value in an ever-more competitive distribution game. CEO James Browning took time out to speak with BikeBiz on how the changes are going so far. “We were clear about what we wanted to do, to support the IBDs and also to be seen to be supporting themt,” he told BikeBiz. “Brands are the lifeblood for distributors so the balance is to build and sustain a brand with IBDs as well as a managed presence online, but if you do it wrong you
alienate independent stores. We set out our objectives – how to get the maximum out of the growing market and help keep the IBD base healthy – and that’s something the industry wants.” Browning cited the Margin Support programme and the Home Delivery service which was introduced in June, allowing IBDs to offer extended ranges from Fisher, without investing space and cash to product. “With Home Delivery we are trying to help dealers with the huge range of products. Look at clothing – there’s so much to stock and
more people are buying clothing online. How do you offer a full range in each size of each SKU? With Home Delivery there’s no stock risk and they get full margin. Fisher is hopeful about 2016: “We’re positive about the coming year. Look is very strong and the new entry-level model (the 765) is going great. We’ve had some big arrivals with Rockshox, with Lyrik and Yari next month – those are big launches. And then there’s the eTAP early next year, which is very exciting for us – it’s a great product.” Read the full interview online at www.BikeBiz.com
THIS MONTH WE ASK THE BIKEBIZ TEAM: This year I hope Father Christmas brings me a… Executive Editor: Carlton Reid carltonreid@mac.com Editor: Jonathon Harker jharker@nbmedia.com Answer: A TARDIS. Deputy Editor: Mark Sutton msutton@nbmedia.com Answer: More shed space
Sales Manager: Richard Setters rsetters@nbmedia.com Answer: A good year of riding weather Design: Dan Bennett dbennett@nbmedia.com Answer: A year of injury-free riding Production Executive: Elizabeth Parker eparker@nbmedia.com
Content Director: Andrew Wooden awooden@nbmedia.com
Marketing & Circulation bike.subscriptions@c-cms.com
Sales Director: Mark Rankine mrankine@nbmedia.com
Editorial: Saxon House, 6A, St. Andrew Street, Hertford, Hertfordshire. SG14 1JA
Managing Director: Mark Burton mburton@nbmedia.com
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 DECEMBER
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NEWS
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All change at Avocet after Hero investment AVOCET SPORTS is to be renamed Avocet following the investment from Indian giant Hero Cycles. Avocet is rebranding with a new logo and website while reaffirming its commitment to independent bike dealers, with new IBD-only signings expected next year. Hero Cycle acquired a majority stake in Avocet this summer and there’s an on-going culture change taking place at the UK firm, BikeBiz was told. “The first stage of the roll-out is the new state-of-the-art Avocet website which has been designed with the independent bike dealer in mind,” explained MD Roger Nowell. “The new Avocet is more than just creating a nice logo and some pretty pictures. It’s about changing the
BIKEBIZ.COM
SHORTS Tour de Yorkshire spectators spent £50m The economic benefit felt as a result of the Tour de Yorkshire ran to around £50 million, according to an independent report. £20.5 million was attributed to accommodation and £29.5 million on food, drink, souvenirs and transport.
Fairdale appoints IMG Distribution From the beginning of 2016, IMG Distribution will represent Taj Mihelich’s Fairdale Bikes brand in the UK. The distributor is contactable on 0845 872 5446. culture of how we do business. It’s about showing our commitment to the independent bike dealer market, improving our services to them, recognising their needs and ultimately giving them reliable, quality bikes their customers want.
“Our partnership with Hero Cycles has been a great fit for us because both companies are dedicated to the IBD market. Hero is the biggest manufacturer and distributor of bikes in the world and our shared knowledge is benefitting both businesses.”
Two thirds of MPS want average of £26 per head spent on cycling AROUND TWO thirds of MPs want a greater sum of money spent on cycling infrastructure, according to Sustrans. The sustainable transport charity questioned 93 MPs and found that, on average, they wanted £26 per person to be spent on cycling infrastructure each year, substantially more than the £10 a head goal at present. The majority of Brits echo the feelings of those MPs in approval, with the seven city Bike Life survey revealing that the 11,000 people questioned also wanted
CYCLE
on average £26 per person to be spent on cycling annually In contrast, the total transport spend is around £300 per person annually. The HS2 rail project has this week seen its projected costs (London to Birmingham leg only) spiral to £30 billion. The entire project may cost as much as £80 billion, (£1,250 a head)
“We’re urging the public to write to their MP to demand sizeable funding.” Sustrans dwarfing annual spend on cycling nationwide by a huge margin. Sustrans research shows that the current level of investment in England, outside London, is just £4, and after April next year we will see this already low level
drop below £1 per person. It is then that the Goverment is expected to pull the plug on funding for sustainable travel. Sustrans commented: “As we head towards this funding cliff for walking and cycling in England we are urging the public to write to their MP and demand long-term and sizeable funding via our website at www.sustrans. org.uk/safetoschool.” Claire Francis, Campaigns Manager at Sustrans, said: “The general public display an overwhelming desire to cycle more, but complained that a lack of safe places to ride is offputting. Now we have MPs telling the same story; they want far greater investment. “Physical inactivity, congestion and declining air quality cost our economy billions. The UK Government must act to secure a greater share of current transport investment for cycling and walking in England.”
Howden re-elected as British Cycling president British Cycling has re-elected Bob Howden as its president – his third term at the helm. Also serving as Chairman, Howden has said he is “more excited than ever about where British Cycling is going.”
Eurostar u-turns on boxed bike policy Under sustained pressure from cycle advocacy groups and high profile politcal figures, Eurostar has backed down on its new bike policy that would have seen cyclists forced to dissasemble bikes and box them up before boarding.
Mavic wins in court Mavic’s IP rights were found to be violated, ruled a Polish court last month. The (unnamed) accused manufactured wheels and marked them with Mavic trademarks. They went on to sell them through an online auction site. The court ordered seizure and destruction of the wheels.
Correction(s)! Two corrections to make from our otherwise perfect November edition: We listed the wrong distributor for the Axiom Corker tool, which should of course have been Paligap. We also mistakenly said a Mike Jenner works for Madison, which is not the case. Apologies to everyone affected by those errors.
For breaking news visit:
www.bikebiz.com BIKEBIZ DECEMBER 7
And the winner is... Congratulations to all of the winners at the 2015 Cycling Media Awards.
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CORE BIKE
NEED TO KNOW VENUE: Whittlebury Hall, Northamptonshire OPENING TIMES: Sunday 31st Jan 09.00 - 17.30 Monday 1st Feb 09.00 - 17.30 Tuesday 2nd Feb 09.00 - 17.30 Wednesday 3rd Feb 09.00 - 14.00 WEBSITE: www.corebike.co.uk For general and accommodation enquiries please contact the Max Bikes team team@maxbikespr.co.uk or telephone 07531627433
WHITTLEBURY HALL is becoming ever more accustomed to the bicycle trade and those that sail in her thanks to the summer’s Core Bike Live debut. That introduced a few exhibitors new to the Core set-up and some of those will be back for Core Bike proper this January, not least heavy hitters like Moore Large. What can you expect to see at the show? Here’s a sneak preview of some of the highlights, with more to follow in our January issue. But before you run off and look at all the new products being shown off at Whittlebury Hall, you don’t want to forget to pre-register, which is a must if you want to make sure you don’t miss out on the free lunches and avoid dreaded queues upon arrival. Head to the site to register www.corebike.co.uk BIKEBIZ.COM
1,2,3, Core Over a decade old and Core Bike is a reliably essential trade event, pulling in bike dealers and press alike. Jonathon Harker looks ahead to 2016’s edition…
THE EXHIBITORS 2pure Chicken CycleKit Citrus-Lime Cyclescheme EBC Endura Extra UK Fox
Q 2PURE Eddy Merckx’s 2016 range will be shown exclusively at Core Bike. The jewel in the crown of the range is the EM525, a new top-of-the-line carbon road bike. It comes in a Performance and an Endurance version and has been fitted exclusively with disc brakes. Featuring a monocoque front triangle and monocoque fork, there’s internal cable routing for mechanical and electronic as well as internal disc brake cable routing. Fork and seatpost are both integrated, with kink compliance seatstays and a Syntace thru axle (12mm). There are seven frame sizes available with clearance for 30mm tyres. Q CHICKEN CYCLEKIT Chicken CycleKit returns to Core with products and brands centred around 2016 stockist packages including Campagnolo, Cinelli, Deda Elementi, Flinger, Miche, NET (from Selle Italia), Sportourer, Tifosi and Vittoria. Among the most eye-catching are the new NET saddles by Selle Italia, and the new disc bikes from Tifosi. NET is a new urban saddle project from Selle Italia. Made from a virtually indestructible material, they are completely waterproof, are 100
Gore Hope Technology Hotlines Europe Ison Distribution Lightweight Mojo Suspension Moore Large Oakley
per cent recyclable and are not manufactured with any toxic materials or bonding agents. The unique thermoplastic honeycomb shell was design to allow the Ischial bones to move independently and adapt to various riding styles, making this “one of the most comfortable saddles in the urban market”. The saddles are competitive, starting at £21.99, and are made in Italy along with the rest of Selle Italia’s range. NET offers a great margin for stockists, they say, and POS options are available. Meanwhile Tifosi gave dealers a glimpse of its new road disc bikes at Cycle Show in September, and at Core the full range will be on display. The retail prices and specifications are incredibly competitive, with pre-orders already flying in, we’re told. Three models have been introduced; two gravel bikes, one aluminium and one carbon version, with a carbon disc road option also available. Visit Chicken CycleKit at Core for information on becoming a Tifosi or NET dealer. Alternatively call 01525 381347. Q CITRUS-LIME Citrus-Lime provides ecommerce, retail and stock control systems for
Polaris Bikewear Saddleback Silverfish SiWIS Storck Bicycle Upgrade Bikes Windwave (Correct at time of press)
specialist independent retailers. The company’s outgoing team work with cycle retailers to build user friendly, future-proof solutions to grow retail businesses online and in-store. In the last year Citrus-Lime has invested its efforts in developing its online marketing services such as Google Shopping to support the goals of their ecommerce retailers. The firm prides itself on delivering a personal relationship along with the cycle specific solutions that have made a name for themselves; the Workshop Module, Supplier Integration and Cloud Reports to name a few. Dealers can call in to see the team and find out what they can do for retail operations. Q EXTRA UK As usual Topeak will be launching plenty of new innovative accessories for 2016 across pumps, tools, bags, lights and bike stands, including the Joe Blow Booster for tubeless tyres. You can see new tyres from Maxxis like the much-anticipated Minion SS along with the complete range of leading MTB, Road, Cyclocross, Hybrid, BMX and Urban tyres. Keen BikeBiz.com readers will already be aware that Clif Bar has recently launched the new Coconut BIKEBIZ DECEMBER 9
CORE BIKE
Chicken: Tifosi’s Andare
Ctrus-Lime: Rather than a pic of a computer they’ve provided us with this pleasant scene
2pure: Eddy Merckx 525 Disc
Hope: Front and Rear Orange Pro4 hubs
Extra UK: The Joe Blow Booster for tubeless
Chocolate Chip flavour and this will be available to sample along with the rest of the range of Bars, Bloks, Gels and Builders Bars. Ergon will be focusing on new additions to the All Mountain and Enduro specific line up of Saddles, Grips and Backpacks, while fi’zi:k has seen great success with their boa road and MTB shoes this year (Extra tells BikeBiz) and they’ll all be at Core. Crankbrothers is adding new pedals to the range including the Enduro specific Mallet E. Brooks will be showcasing the new Cambium C13 plus new grips that have been developed in conjunction with Ergon. Also on display will be the stunning new 2016 line up from boutique MTB and road bike brands Intense and Time. Q HOPE Hope has a number of launches for Core, including several improvements on the Pro 4 hubs. 10 BIKEBIZ DECEMBER
They now use a 44 tooth ratchet mechanism which gives a 10 per cent quicker engagement over the Pro 2 EVO. Also with the move to larger wheel sizes Hope has increased the flange diameter, adding important stiffness to wheel builds, even with non Boost width hubs. The final change is on the Shimano compatible freehubs, to be supplied ready to take 11sp cassettes. Then there’s the new Tech DH wheels and rims, which had a pretty tough launch event – Rampage in Utah. Hope had seven riders using the new wheels including the winner Kurt Sorge and second placed Andreu Lacondeguy, although you don’t need to be riding quite so extreme to feel the advantage, the firm says. They have a 28mm internal width and are available in 26-inch and 27.5-inch. Rim weight is 623g, there are Rim only as well as complete wheels and 135, 150 and 157mm rears are available.
Ison: TS’s new urban helmets will be at Core
Q ISON DISTRIBUTION Among the show highlights for Ison are Light Blue’s steel bikes and frames, now available with six models in the current range from sportive to tourers. HT-Components has been making waves with a range of high performance clipless and flat pedals. Dealers can see the brand new T1 enduro pedals, X2 downhill pedal, new AE06 and AE12 flat pedals and more at Core. More than a dirt jump brand, Halo’s wheels – from BMX to the Pro peloton – are are hand-built and 2016 will see many new products, some of which can be seen at Core. The new Gloworm CX700 and CX1100 lights will debut, featuring internal battery, USB charged units with 700 and 1100 lumen outputs that are fully programmable. MORGAW will be displaying their unified, patented and self-supported saddle platform based on shock absorbers and interchangeable rails,
while Apidura will show its new welded construction Saddle Pack and Full Frame Packs. All-City will have CX bikes on show alongside the usual Surly display including the new Wednesday Fat Bike. ODI will be offering products for road and offroad including the test-winning bar tape and brand new Elite Series Lock-On grips. As well as brand new colours and designs in their best-selling open face helmets, TSG is releasing new lightweight and visible urban-focused helmets with integral rear lights for safety. Q LIGHTWEIGHT Lightweight’s new Weiss.Ed Urgestalt frame has been finished with a special coating that promises to be incredibly durable and has been calibrated to precisely match the Weiss.Ed finish on the wheelsets, and meets the brands high standards of quality. In a nutshell, the firm sought to replicate the technical attributes of BIKEBIZ.COM
REINVENTING THE ART AND SCIENCE OF BEING SEEN. We are raising the bar on cycling visibility. We call it BioViz TM , a true all-conditions visibilty solution that works day or night. We rigorously tested our designs to ensure that a rider is visible from a minimum of 100 meters away. And not just through the flash of a camera phone. Because while there’s nothing wrong with the current hi-vis trend, to us there’s a lot more to it than bringing back the 80’s. www.pearlizumi.co.uk/bioviz
CORE BIKE
Moore Large: Bobbin’s latest
Silverfish: Skratch Fruit Drops
Lightweight’s Urgestalt frame
its wheelsets in the race bike frameset. (For those that were wondering, Urgestalt translates to “archetype” or ‘standard”.) The frame also promises stability and predictability on descents while providing direct, precise steering in corners and under rapid changes of direction in race scenarios. The brand adds: “Urgestalt offers a unique new riding experience, infused with the engineering DNA of the world’s best wheels to create a union between rider and frame that is unparalleled in the industry.” Q MOORE LARGE Following up its Core Bike Live debut in the summer, Moore Large is bringing along its brand portfolio. In terms of accessories, Lake’s 2016 range – including the new MTB models – will appear as will American Classic’s new models, featuring updated graphics on all lines. Core will see the first show of Alpina’s 12 BIKEBIZ DECEMBER
2016 models, while Knog’s lock range will debut alongside extended ranges for the POP, Blinder Road and Blinder Arc. New signing InfoCrank will be at Core too, as will Jagwire and Sako7 socks. On the bike side, Bobbin’s full new range will be seen for the first time at Whittlebury. Expect to also see Cuda Performance, Peugeot’s all new electric MTBs, new models added for Forme, Onza MTB, Haro and another new signing in Polygon. Q POLARIS Polaris has new performance road ranges for next spring summer. The geometric patterns are inspired by the peaks and hills of the Peak District which has been the company’s home for over 25 years. The diverse Peak District is split into the northern Dark Peak, where most of the moorland is found and whose geology is gritstone and the southern White Peak, whose geology
Polaris’ new prints for 2016
is mainly limestone, so influencing the tonal colour palettes used in this range. Both ranges carry ergonomic race fits and Italian-branded three layer performance chamois with rapid sweat absorption to prevent chaffing. The men’s Geo Range contains a jersey, bibs, mitts, armwarmers for summer UV protection and socks. The women’s Vision Range builds on the success of the Vela Range last season. The Vision Range’s performance lines have a colour palette that integrates with last season’s products building on the ideal capsule wardrobe collection. The women will have a performance jersey and shorts that include the contour cross-over waistband for female ergonomic tailored fit along with new mitts for this season. Q SILVERFISH Skratch Labs’ all-natural hydration has been based on the premise that
it can be consumed consistently without giving you gut-rot. Launching with the Exercise Hydration Mix last year, Skratch has now added all-natural Energy Chews to the range, again made with simple ingredients and flavoured with real fruit. You’ll also find Race Face’s Turbine Dropper Seatpost at Core, giving riders the ability to ‘drop’ their saddle down for increased clearance when the trail starts to descend. Using a patented hybrid system, the Turbine post gives a solid feel when in use and support the rider’s body weight with a mechanical locking system for a solid pedalling platform which does not slip and also offers less potential to fail over time thanks to not relying on the system seals to support the rider when seated. A hydraulic system within the seat post takes care of dampening and rebound duties actuate once the lever is pressed, with lower air pressures and static seals. BIKEBIZ.COM
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KRYPTONITE
Kryptonite’s Mini S Plus
LOCKS, STOCKS AND BARRELS Nick Watkin, Kryptonite General Manager
Kryptonite’s owner Allegion bought rival lock brand Axa in the summer. Jonathon Harker quizzes Kryptonite General Manager Nick Watkin on what the acquisition means for the trade and creating a buzz in Europe… How’s business? In Europe we’re doing exceptionally well. Over 18 months we’ve been reaping the rewards of investing in people and products. In the UK market we’ve had a reasonable presence for at least 15 or 20 years and we want to continue to grow. In US we are in good shape in terms of share and we obviously want to maintain that and continue to grow but we’re working hard to make the brand bigger in Europe. How was the reaction to the launches at Eurobike? Show season was a real buzz for us. At Eurobike particularly there was a real step change this year. We had lots of dealers coming up to us and products were almost the thing we were talking about the least. We were talking about the brand, our services, our dealer support programmes including the planogram programme, how dealers can make more money… then it was “oh and we have these new products too”. In the past we’ve had presence in Europe and we distribute to the BIKEBIZ.COM
continent out of a UK warehouse. But we’ve proactively gone for it. Eurobike was a real buzz for us. When I met the Kryptonite team last they told me there is a lot of opportunity for the brand… The opportunity for us is geographical in nature, to get our fair share in Europe. We have a
operating separately, although there is some back of house integration like finance, HR and IT. From the front end you hopefully won’t notice it! There’s an interesting high quality challenge here: What do we do with these two brands with their different strengths in different regions? They are both brands that
“We’re reaping the rewards of investment in people and products.” Nick Watkin, Kryptonite wide portfolio of products, specifications and technology and services and our offer can be replicated where we have been successful in Central Europe, Scandinavia, France and Germany. Kryptonite’s owner Allegion acquired lock brand AXA in the summer. What does that mean for Kryptonite and retailers? From a consumer point of view there won’t be any change in the short term. The brands are
have a huge market share in different territories. It’s a question we haven’t answered yet. There are of course opportunities. There’s different products and expertise in different areas. Engineers from both brands are exchanging knowledge and there will be benefits for both product ranges. But for now it is business as usual. Dealers won’t see any difference for some time. The AXA acquisition was a step up for Allegion and we now we get
more global market share. As we were competition, especially in Europe, they will complement each other well. AXA is strong in Benelux, while Kryptonite is strong in the US and UK. They are different product types, a good percentage of AXA is in OEM, Kryptonite is an urban, slightly youth-oriented brand, AXA is a clean, more technical sale perhaps…There’s fresh air between the brands. They have to stand on their own two feet. Was the acquisition a long time in the making? The Allegion management structure is entrepreneurial and they’ve invested in us which is a relatively small part of the Allegion business. We (action sports security) are not their core. Although they are in security, it’s mostly for commercial buildings and residential homes. They looked at the opportunity and the fact that we don’t have the share in the EU and have invested to get that bigger share. Acquisition was one route to get there quicker. Kryptonite is in a nice position to be able to do that. These BIKEBIZ DECEMBER 15
KRYPTONITE Feedback from the Messenger collection has led the brand into new areas
opportunities exist and there is a mechanism to make acquisitions and examine if brands can join us. Never say never, but there’s lots of work to do while the dust settles. As a US company with a solid footing in the UK, how do the two cycle markets compare? I’ve lived in the US managing Kryptonite and am now back in the UK, so I’ve seen both sides of the Atlantic in detail. Apart from a few exceptions, like cruisers, the bikes sold in the UK and US are relatively similar. They are not ridiculously different. So the products people want to use to secure their bikes are not hugely different in the UK and US. Both are focused on sport or exercise in the main. That is changing but we aren’t like the Netherlands or Germany. They are similar so the locks we sell in each territory are quite similar too. There’s no extra testing in the US, so there is no equivalent of Sold Secure. It has merits, but Sold Secure can create depth in the market. People may produce locks that just scrape through a particular test. That can cause manufacturing issues and drive SKU proliferation – you don’t have that in the US – but it’s not necessarily a bad thing. You’re extended the Anti Theft Protection Offer (ATPO)... ATPO allows a shop to sell ‘peace of mind’ to a consumer who buys one of our locks and shows we stand behind the quality of it. We’ve had ATPO in the UK a long time. We introduced it in 1978 and in the UK soon after, but beyond those it hasn’t been available in many countries. Now it’s being rolled out into more European countries. We try to make our product security levels very straightforward for consumers. Our goal is to get people the right lock, depending on how long it is left for and where they use it – too often it is confusing for the consumer and even for dealers – so we just have a simple one-to-ten system. Our Planogram makes security levels simple for dealers and crystal clear for consumers. Ideally you have a consumer coming into a shop and instead of being faced with a wall of locks you have a well ranged group of locks and a tangible understanding of what each level of lock offers. 16 BIKEBIZ DECEMBER
The ATPO sits neatly in that. Today in the UK the progamme is only offered for one year and it is free – with the new ATPO in January you can register for up to five years, at different costs, but for high and ultimate secruity locks the first year will still be free. Now the claim process – we don’t have many – is no longer manual and time
Can we expect to see more gravity and component-based security products from Kryptonite? It is definitely an interesting area for us, with some obvious possibilities like wheels. We’re doing extra research on what people want protected. That was driven by the Messenger line and
“We do more than anyone else to help a customer make a good lock choice.” consuming as it can all be done online. Dealers can show customers how easy it is. It shows how Kryptonite is different to other brands. It’s not just the sale of the lock, it’s the whole experience. Eighteen months ago our management team sat down to chat about taking the brand forward. We offer good warranty and we’ll continue to innovate, but let’s park that. We said “let’s concentrate on how to help dealers make more money and help consumers buy the right product”. We want to help dealers with profitability and make the consumer comfortable with choosing the product that is right for them.
the feedback we got from that – people just want to carry one lock, basically. Two good locks is ideal, but one is more popular. In terms of Gravity there’s no reason why we shouldn’t and you want to give thieves a tough time when it comes to expensive components. But you do have to be realistic about how many people are worried about if their derailleur will be taken. There’s a law of diminishing returns, we don’t want to be a component manufacturer. The SKU count for different components and different bikes would be immense. It’s not realistic to expect 200 SKUs on dealers’ shelves. It is an area we will pursue, but there will be a limit.
What about the future for Kryptonite in the cycle market? It is looking rosy. The biggest challenge is outside the UK. No one actually wants to buy a lock. It’s not sexy – you don’t want to think about it. Locks of course tend to be urban but there’s not one type of cyclist we target. They all need locks, that’s the beauty of the category. When a consumer wants to buy a lock they go online and research it and I think we do more than anyone else to help them make a good choice. We have more than a fighting chance to get the sale. That is mirrored in the UK and US with the stock on dealers’ shelves. That’s not the case in Europe as there’s lots of big competitors there, so that is our challenge. You push people into shops but the locks have to be on the shelves. All our products have a ‘buy local now’ button and in the US that takes you to a site that lists where you locally can find stock of the product. We can close that link and go straight to the shop. These mechanisms don’t exist in the much more fragmented Europe market. The challenge is to get that and make sure products are on shelves of a dealer and hopefully merchandised well. www.kryptonitelock.com BIKEBIZ.COM
THE BIKE PLACE
The soon to be bustling Silverstone showroom
A PLACE FOR MY SHRED Six years on from setting up down the road from Core Bike, 38 exhibitors now call The Bike Place Home. Mark Sutton checks in with a handful of those debuting product and offering dealers a reason to head to Silverstone…
18 BIKEBIZ DECEMBER
Q ORANGE BikeBiz has got word of a brand new model, joining Orange’s full suspension catalogue for an exclusive launch at the exhibition. Also joining the UK bike manufacturers portfolio for 2016 is the Reynolds tubed P7, rebuilt for 27.5 wheels. Based around a 140mm fork, 65 degree head angle, the new P7 has been upgraded to meet the demands of the modern trail rider. Q VELO BRANDS Just a year the junior of the show itself, Velobrands brings with it a respectable stable of labels, including Kask Helmets, Chapeau, Juice Lubes, Knight and Chimpanzee nutrition. The latter of those is a fairly new brand on the nutrition scene and one that’s dedicated to your everyday rider who needs a boost. Certified vegan and with taste a priority, these are one for the cyclist that snacks. 2016 will see KASK enter the MTB
helmet arena with the new REX, their first purpose designed off-road offering. Featuring the Octo Fit retention system you will be familiar with from the excellent Protone, the REX will re-set consumer expectations for levels of comfort and fit in a mountain bike helmet. Q ION Now showing a complete collection of winter and spring/summer clothing and protection, Ion brings with it two Eurobike Award-winning products in the Klite Zip and Transom 16 backpack. Capable of receiving a spine plate upgrade, the Transom backpack features a revamped air conditioning system that on uphill stretches enables maximum airflow and on descents ensures a secure, wobble free fit. Q FISHER OUTDOOR With the St Albans distributor’s sales BIKEBIZ.COM
THE BIKE PLACE
Reid Bikes are actively seeking to grow their UK store base
force in attendance, dealers will be invited to see new products for 2016 such as: Sram Red Etap, the Tacx Neo – a Eurobike Award winner, Look bikes, including the all-new 765 which will be available to test, Seasucker vacuum-mounted bike racks, Early Rider Belter 20” range kids bikes including Eurobike Gold Award Winner The Trail 3S suspension kids bike, the new Santini spring summer and replica collections for 2016 and the Troy Lee Designs 2016 range. Muc-Off will also have its Athlete Care range on show and Hiplok will be present, the latest brand to join the stable. Q JUNGLE PRODUCTS Recent addition to the Jungle Products roster Wickens and Soderstrom will be a big focus for the distributor, come January. Meanwhile, BOS suspension will be launching a complete new MY16 line up at the show, much of which BIKEBIZ.COM
Cooke Components exclusively carry Veltec Wheels
will be on display for the first time, including the new Micro shock. Finally, KS will show its Zeta dropper post, specifically developed for road and cross applications. Q 2X2 WORLDWIDE Having landed with new distributors 2x2, Australia’s Reid Cycles will launch its 2016 range to UK dealers at Silverstone. Models will be available to test for those keen to see what the fuss is about and the label tells BikeBiz it hopes to double the number of accounts it serves in 2016. Reid will be showcasing the new Esprit model, available for the first time in the UK from March. Q BIKE TYRESTORE Set for a rebrand from Rubena to Mitas (the name of the Czech parent company) Bike Tyrestore will be refreshing dealers on its rubber collection at Silverstone.
Set for an introduction to the UK market at the show, the Hyperion and Hylander tyres will be key for the current wet season and next summer, respectively. Sidewall protection has been bolstered in much of the performance range, with the Kratos, Zefyros and Scylla Top Design MTB tyres and Highlander Extreme tyres all receiving a tough Textra sidewall upgrade. Q COOKE COMPONENTS As the exclusive UK distributor for Veltec wheels, Cooke will be showcasing the entire range of the ‘handbuilt in Germany’ road and MTB wheels. New for 2016 is the Veltec 4.5 ACC, which is an alloy carbon clincher for the road, retailing for £799 and with “strong margins” apparently available. As well as Veltec wheels, Cooke will also be showcasing their ever growing range of VEL components.
With the design ethos of ‘premium quality, affordable price’, the VEL range includes everything from bar tape, bottle cages and Garmin mounts to replacement cleats, gift ideas and tools. Q BURGTEC Burgtec will be exhibiting the much-anticipated Penthouse clip pedal. The pedal will be available from the end of February and is the very same as used by Santa Cruz Syndicate’s Josh Bryceland for the 2016 season. Q VAM PERFORMANCE The Bike Place will provide VAM a platform on which to show the new Cadence collection to retailers. Dubbed the Conqueror, the line is a re-work of one of the most popular lines and now in two colourways. One very innovative feature of these is the reflective panels that have been incorporated into the BIKEBIZ DECEMBER 19
THE BIKE PLACE
New Zealand’s Solo will intorduce new jerseys
KS’s new Zeta dropper, aimed at road and CX riders
Witter will make its first appearance at the show with new racking
kits. Despite us coming into the winter months, VAM feels the CX season and the integration of the reflective panels means the kit is really relevant to UK riders. Q SOLO Just a handful of introductions from Solo at The Bike Place, most notably the 350 Duo jersey and £90 bibs. Coming in at a more affordable price point than has traditionally been the case, but maintaining the brand’s distinctive style, the new garments join the existing socks, mitts, jerseys, baselayers, bibs, jackets and gilets. Q EVOLUTION IMPORTS With Chris King having just announced a new bottom bracket standard, the T47, Evolution Imports are likely to have the attention of many at The Bike Place. That’s far from all though, the brand will have all new Boost hub samples, 142 x 12 rear and 12mm 20 BIKEBIZ DECEMBER
front R45 disc hubs and a new turquoise colourway on display. Q JUST RIDING ALONG Just Riding Along will introduce Industry Nine’s zingy new lime green colour which will feature throughout the range of road and MTB wheelsets, as well as on aftermarket hubs. Set for introduction is the Trail-S, a lower priced complete wheelset using standard stainless spokes at £595. Tapping into the trend toward wider “plus size” wheels, the new BackCountry 450 Plus Size wheelset in 27.5” and 29er comes in at £920 and should be available by Christmas, along with a new range of fat bike wheels featuring rims up to 100mm wide. Q WITTER Having scored favourable results in recent Cycling Plus and 220 Triathlon reviews, Witter is to debut its brand new towball mounted ZX 500.
Supplied fully assembled, the rack is a vertically loaded, lockable and easily adjustable unit that’s designing out the back and neck pain that can be associated with loading some racks. A tilt mechanism allows easy boot access. Q BIANCHI Over the last three years, Bianchi has grown 25 per cent and is now in a position to take advantage of the momentum it has built. Appearing at The Bike Place is part of a long-term plan to talk to more dealers about the specific focuses of the brand in a relaxed environment. Bianchi will be showcasing models from across the successful road line, including the Specialissima, along with key models from its fast growing MTB line. Bianchi isn’t known for MTB, but its first off-road model was built in 1915. It was full suspension and folded. Things have moved on quite a long way since then and, globally, MTB is
almost half the brand’s business. With that in mind, Bianchi is looking to grow its UK presence here. Q WILDOO Marking the launch of Wildoo’s revised 2016 custom clothing programme, retailers will be invited to sample the fresh fabrics, enhanced cut and some entirely new garments. Velopac will also use the show to launch its RidePac – a soft padded bag designed to fit a jersey pocket that will carry anything from your expensive smartphone (up to iPhone 6 Plus) to a race license or passport. Q OXFORD PRODUCTS An interesting new line joining the Oxford portfolio is the Alarm-D lock series. As the name suggests, the four product line offers an audible alarm that will hit 120 decibels when interfered with. Three lengths are available, as well as a max strength unit. BIKEBIZ.COM
SUPPLIERS OF PREMIUM CYCLING PRODUCTS
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LONDON BIKE SHOW
HASN’T SIX YEARS FLOWN BY? We remember 2011, the year of the first London Bike Show, like it was yesterday. Our sideburns were chunkier and MTBers were perfectly happy with 26 inches. Those were the days. But in 2016 things are different and the London Bike Show has plenty of exciting developments ready for version six, as Telegraph Events’ Ian Chandler explains to an aged Jonathon Harker…
How are the preparations going for the next show? Can you share any numbers? Are you ahead in terms of bookings compared to last year? Preparations for the 2016 London Bike Show are go, go, go! Tickets have just gone on sale and stand space is filling up fast. The Show is 20 per cent larger than it was in 2015 and we’re gearing up for another fantastic event. What are the key changes the bike trade needs to know about for 2016? Following significant growth year-on-year we know we’re doing something right with the format at the Show. As per previous years we’ll offer free entry to the trade on the Thursday, but we’ll also be open to consumers, we’ll encourage exhibitors wanting to retail direct at the Show, and we’ll
promises to be a truly great spectacle for the show. Air to the Throne will open the event up to a whole new audience. It will bring in a new competitive element to the London Bike Show and the marketing powers of 30 of the world’s best MTB riders. Other than that, we’re creating ‘destination’ bars – we’ll have a road cycling café called The Workshop, and a MTB bar called The Hot Seat – two places in the Show where people are going to enjoy hanging out. Got any cycle celebs lined up for the show? We’re going to be confirming a number of special guests over the next month or two, and if we can draw a similar calibre of guests to those who attended in 2015 we’ll be really pleased. Our guests included Sir Chris Hoy, Sir Dave
“We are gearing up for a show that will be 20 per cent larger than it was in 2015.” Ian Chandler, Telegraph Events pack the Show full of attractions and special guests to ensure we get the right people attending and they have a great experience. How many years has the show been going now? How has the show developed since it was first launched? The Show’s moving into its sixth year in 2016 after launching back in 2011. You may recall the first Show was dominated by a large presence by Madison and their brands, other than that we had a pump track area, demos by The Clan and a small stage. Wind the clock forwards and we have over 200 exhibitors and the majority of the top cycling brands present. Over 50,000 visitors attended the shows in 2015 and we’re targeting 60,000 in 2016. What kind of new features have you got in place for next year’s London Bike Show? We’re installing a massive freestyle mountain bike course in the Show and hosting a competition called Air to the Throne over the weekend – featuring 30 of the world’s best riders all competing for a prize purse of €10,000 – it 22 BIKEBIZ DECEMBER
Brailsford, Greg LeMond, Manon Carpenter, Rochelle Gilmore, Steve Peat, Josh Bryceland – real A-list names of the sport. Watch this space! Why should exhibitors get involved with the Show? The London Bike Show offers a great opportunity to meet your customers and make new ones! Whether you’re looking to sell products direct or increase awareness of your brand we have a fantastic reach and a huge audience to help you achieve these goals. Talk to us to find out more. thelondonbikeshow.co.uk/contact
INNOVATION FOR THE NATION The BikeBiz-backed Innovation Lab will be returning in 2016 after proving to be a success with new start-up-brands wanting to be involved with the Show. The London Bike Show organiser Telegraph Events has doubled the size of the area due to its popularity and to keep supporting innovation within the industry.
BIKEBIZ.COM
CYCLING MEDIA AWARDS 2015
Cycling Media Awards 2015: THE WINNERS The great and the good of the cycle media world came together to celebrate the high achievers of the sector at Islington Metalworks in London last month. Here are the winners of the 2015 CMAs... Team Cyclist take to the CMA stage...
SPONSORS
24 BIKEBIZ DECEMBER
BIKEBIZ.COM
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CYCLING MEDIA AWARDS 2015
Award picked up by Rob Spedding & Warren Rossiter
MAGAZINE OF THE YEAR: ROULEUR “Magazine of the Year: Rouleur. Photographer of the Year: Marshall Kappel. Good night at #cyclingmediaawards.” @rouleurmagazine
WEBSITE OF THE YEAR: BIKERADAR “I’m tremendously proud of our win. The team have worked tirelessly to make BikeRadar the best website for cycling enthusiasts in the world, and it’s great to see that recognised.” Will Findlater Award picked up by Tom Hill, Jenn’s husband
BEST USE OF PHOTOGRAPHY: CYCLIST “Everyone at Cyclist is very excited to win a CMA, especially as we know it comes from our peers in the industry. Many thanks to everyone who voted for us, and well done to the BikeBiz team for hosting such a fun evening.” Pete Muir
SPECIALIST WRITER - ONLINE: STEVE JONES, DIRT “Genuinely over the moon winning this online award. I would really like to thank who nominated and voted for me but also the organisers for putting on a really sociable event. Thanks again!” Steve Jones BIKEBIZ.COM
SPECIALIST WRITER - PRINT: JENN HILL, SINGLETRACK “We’d like to say a huge, huge thank you to everyone who voted for Jenn.” The Singletrack team
BEST COVERAGE BY A NEWSPAPER: THE GUARDIAN “.@guardian just won “best cycling coverage by a newspaper” at the Cycling Media Awards. I have a vast perspex gong at my feet.” @peterwalker99 BIKEBIZ DECEMBER 27
CYCLING MEDIA AWARDS 2015
BEST COVERAGE BY A MAINSTREAM MAGAZINE: WOMEN’S FITNESS “We were so chuffed to win a CMA. We’re a team of avid cyclists and love bringing the latest news, kit, routes and advice to our readers every month.” Joanna Knight
BEST COVERAGE BY A MAINSTREAM WEBSITE: EUROSPORT
BEST CYCLING PODCAST: THE CYCLING PODCAST
BEST BROADCAST COVERAGE: RED BULL
“Lionel collected the best podcast gong at tonight’s Cycling Media Awards thanks all who voted!” @cycling_podcast Award passed on by Carlton Reid
Eurosport claimed the Mainstream Website Award
28 BIKEBIZ DECEMBER
BEST VLOGGER/USE OF VIDEO: THE GLOBAL CYCLING NETWORK BIKEBIZ.COM
CYCLING MEDIA AWARDS 2015
Award passed on by Carlton Reid
CYCLING ADVOCATE OF THE YEAR: CHRIS BOARDMAN, BRITISH CYCLING “@BritishCycling @cyclemediaaward thank you for this, I’m a little embarrassed as I’m only the front man for some very dedicated people.” @Chris_Boardman
Award passed on by Carlton Reid
BLOGGER OF THE YEAR: DANNY WILLIAMS, CYCLISTS IN THE CITY “Thank you @cyclemediaaward I promise blog will restart very soon. There’s lots of anti-cycling forces to challenge.” @citycyclists
PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR: MARSHALL KAPPEL, ROULEUR “Thank you so much to all the brilliant editors and writers at Rouleur Magazine who share in my passion for this beautiful sport and make things like this CMA award happen. Thank you also to all the amazing athletes and teams with whom I have the privilege of working in creating my images.”
WRITER OF THE YEAR: JO BURT, ROAD.CC Award Passed on by Mark Alker
CYCLING MEDIA LEGEND: CHIPPS CHIPPENDALE, SINGLETRACK BIKEBIZ.COM
BIKEBIZ DECEMBER 29
REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT
REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT: IRELAND AND NORTHERN IRELAND With competitive cycling and commuter cycling both having a strong year in Ireland and Northern Ireland, BikeBiz examines the state of the market beyond the Irish Sea. Jonathon Harker collects views from retailers, sales reps, journalists and more… IN THE space of two years, Ireland has seen larger numbers use cycling as their main transport. The fortuitously timed results of the Road Safety Authority survey also revealed last month that one in three people cycle in Dublin, attributed in part to the storming success of city hire bike scheme dublinbikes (page 34). While there is a slight fall in cycle numbers in general – which are down three per cent – there is much to be positive about when it comes to cycling not just in Ireland but also in Northern Ireland. It’s hard to avoid talking about the barnstorming appearance of the Giro d’Italia (page 38) last year, starting in Belfast and finishing in Dublin. We’ll explore in more depth the impact that has had on both territories in this feature. Off-road there’s the Northern Irish strategy to turn the nation into a true global MTB destination (page 36). Like over the Irish Sea, retail is fiercely competitive and there undeniable negatives too, not least the cancellation of the Dublin-set Irish Cycling Show. STATE OF THE MARKET UK-based distributor Paligap has an Irish sales rep – one Ricky Mckillen – who solely works in Ireland and Northern Ireland. According to Paligap this means it has a closer relationship with the Irish dealers and understand the Irish market more than most. In that case they are perfectly poised to tell us how the market has performed there: “2015 has been a rollercoaster of a BIKEBIZ.COM
RETAILER VIEW: A SATURATED MARKET
NI’s MTB strategy is bolstering the sector
“For such a small market, there really is a massive choice where to buy your bike.” year which saw a great start in both bike sales and general P&A, towards the middle and second half of the year sales slowed down and shops started to become extremely quiet,” McKillen tells BikeBiz. “Even with this slowdown the territory shows an increase of more than 15 per cent versus the same period in 2014 and in particular we have seen double digit figure growth of Marin Bicycle sales.” Echoing the views of some bike shops in the country (see Retailer View, inset), the Paligap rep believes there’s plenty of retailers out there, keeping competition at a high: “There is a definite saturation of bike shops, especially in the South of Ireland. This along with the extreme fluctuation in currency and the lack of sunshine in the summer has all played a part in an
unpredictable year. Online activity also comes with its difficulties with more and more consumers are purchasing from European online retailers and the direct to market brands. “The majority of dealers do specialise solely in bikes, however – more so in the South of Ireland – over the last few years there has been an increasing number of businesses from other industries starting to sell bikes as a side line off the strength of the bike to work scheme.” Another England-set distributor, Hertfordshire’s Fisher Outdoor Leisure, has recently changed its approach to Ireland and NI, as head of sales Martin Murray explains: “12 months ago we changed our route to market plans in to both Eire and NI and decided to go direct to
“I THINK cycling in Northern Ireland is really getting big, especially since the Giro 2014. I have a friend who owns a golf club company and he was saying there has been a big dip in the numbers registering at golf clubs as the majority of them are now taking up cycling. “The only problem with Northern Ireland is it is such a saturated market. You think of the small population of 1.4 million. Yet you have one of the biggest bike shops in the world, Chain Reaction, competing with many local bike shops such as McConveys, Slanes and many, many others. Then you have to consider the ‘bargain bikes’ as I like to call it with Halfords. For such a small market there really is a massive choice. Personally my business is all about bicycle repairs as if I were to sell bikes I would not be able to compete with the likes of Chain Reaction or McConveys. “From a customer point of view its fantastic, but from a business point of view I can see a lot of bike retailers starting to struggle when the market starts to stagnate.” BikeWorx, Lisburn, Co. Antrim, Northern Ireland. dealer rather than through a sub wholesaler. It’s been well received BIKEBIZ DECEMBER 31
REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT
MEDIA VIEW: CYCLOCROSS & RACING
Coca-Cola Zero dublinbikes bike hire is expanding
by the dealers for all of the obvious service benefits you can imagine.” URBAN AND C2W Cycle to work provider Cyclescheme has an Irish branch operating in the country, and tells BikeBiz that commuter cycling numbers are going up, backing those earlier figures from the Road Safety Authority. The firm said that since Cyclescheme.ie launched in 2009, uptake with clients has increased year-on-year. Product manager Tracy O’Brien tells BikeBiz: “The average spend is €875, and from 2016, consumers will save between 29.5 per cent to 49.5 per cent on a new bike and/or cycling safety accessories. Cyclescheme is educating employees more on the necessity to buy the right allowable safety equipment to cover all seasons, and to especially purchase at least one good lock.” Cyclescheme.ie works through local independent bike retailers and is partnered with over 280 indie bike shops nationwide.
9.6%
RISE
Between ’06 and ’11 there was a 9.6% rise in people cycling to work in Ireland 32 DECEMBER BIKEBIZ
“This means the employees of our clients get the best possible service, knowledge, choice of bike and accessory brands, and aftercare service,” says O’Brien. “We also work with Cyclist.ie [the Irish Cycling Advocacy Network] to encourage better cycling infrastructure and cycling safety to break down barriers to entry. “Many employees are eligible to take part in the scheme for a second time – those who made their initial application in 2009 and 2010 – which is excellent to see. It is great that Cyclescheme Ireland has got people cycling and is keeping them cycling!” ROAD VS MTB While road is predictably in ascendance, in Eire and NI too there is plenty of legs in mountain biking. Fisher Outdoor Leisure’s Martin Murray elaborates: “The road cycling scene is historically strong in Ireland and continues to be a bigger part of the Irish market. Having said that, there are some very good MTB shops who
SIX OUT OF TEN In 2011, six out of ten children were driven to primary school in Ireland
capitalise on the close knit race and trail centre scenes and with events like Red Bull Foxhunt and the World Enduro series stopping off in Ireland it can only be good for helping to grow the MTB side of the market.” Paligap’s Irish rep Ricky Mckillen goes further and says there’s an off-road resurgence: “It is predominantly a road market at the moment and there is a definite trend in certain areas that road bikes would occupy 70 per cent of bike floor space with the other 30 per cent being filled with hybrid and mountain bike. However the mountain bike scene is seeing another resurgence. There is so much more provision now for mountain biking with a number of official trail centres both North and South which are catering for every level of rider. “Generally, the quality of rider is also on the up, we are now seeing local riders making it on a World level in different disciplines which will only generate more interest and recognition to the sport.”
800 MILES
The National Cycle Network of Northern Ireland extends to more than 800 miles
“IT’S THE right time to be looking at this as the present season highlights how popular competitive cycling in particular has become in Ireland. “Northern Ireland is closer to Britain than the south of Ireland, in terms of the cycling scene, and as a result has been slow to take on cyclocross. “But now it’s on an incredible upward trajectory, with some field sizes doubling this year, including in the women’s sector. “Road racing, and indeed any large-scale road event, does suffer from vocal local protestors – though there is no violence from them – and lack of support from councils. “Cyclocross gets a bit of stick when it’s run in public parks, but it is welcomed on private land, and the family-friendly nature of the events makes them accessible to all levels. “Of course, it all comes down to the cycle to work scheme; approaching its seventh year, this is the chief catalyst of the overall boom in the industry. Without it, many sheds would be empty and most local shops would be closed.” Jessica Lamb, tech reporter Stickybottle.com “CYCLING WORLD Ireland since its launch has been a great challenge and a privilege to be associated with such a great opportunity to showcase the great strides that it has taken moving forwards. It’s been a celebration on the domestic and international front with its full achievements across the sport at the end of what has been a successful year in cycling, which has seen outstanding performances from international riders across all disciplines. We also need to reflect the depth of volunteerism, without which the progression in Cycling Ireland would not be possible. “This is a great opportunity for the future of Cycling World Ireland and hope that 2016 can be another very successful year for cycling in Ireland. here’s hoping that we can continue in its shared success.” Joe Nardone, Cycling World [CW Ireland launched in 2015] BIKEBIZ.COM
REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT
Dublin got there first Think city hire bikes and chances are that London’s now Santander-sponsored scheme comes to mind, but Dublin got there first by one year, in 2009. Jonathon Harker examines the impact the scheme has had on the fair city… IN APRIL city bike hire scheme dublinbikes hit a ten million journeys milestone, which is not just an impressive statistic by itself, but also sign of how it’s popularity continues to climb as it expands over years go by – it took a year for it to hit one million journeys. In fact dublinbikes (officially Coca-Cola Zero dublinbikes) exceeded expectations and a mini-expansion was immediately required to meet demand soon after it launched. Now there are 101 docking stations and 1,500 bikes in action in the popular scheme. “In global terms the scheme is a relatively small scheme but it is also an extremely busy scheme that has now become an additional public transport option that people rely on,” Dublin City Council’s Michael Rossiter tells BikeBiz. “The main challenges are managing the daily demand for service and meeting expectations for future expansion. There is a continuing demand to expand the catchment of the scheme to cover a wider geographical area. There has been a significant level of interest from individuals, residents associations and businesses located in various parts of the city requesting
that the bike scheme be expanded to serve their particular locality. “A big challenge is to develop a sustainable long term funding model that will facilitate the expansion and continued growth of the scheme into the future, in particular bearing in mind that to date this civically focused scheme has been provided by Dublin City Council at a cost neutral basis to the city for use by its citizens.” Few in the cycle industry would deny more people on bikes is a good
“From speaking to bike retailers, many users have gone on to purchase their own bikes for hobby and leisure cycling.” thing, even if they aren’t using bikes bought from their store or from their brand, but there’s a school of thought that city hire bikes bring about a culture change and result in more people on bikes in general, not just on hire bikes. Rossiter subscribes to that view: “Anecdotally I feel a lot of people have come back to cycling after years of absence after becoming members of the scheme. They can see the benefits of cycling for quick and efficient travel around
10 MILLION dublinbikes hit 10 million journeys in April 2015
34 DECEMBER BIKEBIZ
the city. Since the introduction of the scheme in 2009 and due in part to the high visibility of Coca-Cola Zero dublinbikes, it has become normal to cycle in Dublin once again. “From speaking to bike retailers, the impression I get is that many more of the subscribers have gone further and purchased their own bikes for hobby and leisure cycling after reconnecting.” JCDecaux Ireland runs dublinbikes on behalf of Dublin City Council and the scheme’s success is due in part to
a high turnover in bike use. Average journey times are 14 minutes and as members don’t pay for journeys under 30 minutes, 96 per cent of journeys are free. The scheme covers an area of roughly nine square kilometres in the heart of the city, with bike stations located close to civic amenities and attractions as well as where people live and work. The Council says that a diverse range of people use the bikes, from students to business people. There
96%
are around 60,000 members now, a huge leap from 36,000 before expansion in 2014. Rossiter believes the hire scheme truly has been a key driver in making the city more bike friendly: “Dublin’s bike culture has flourished in recent years as increasing numbers of workers, visitors and students opt for the convenience of pedal power. Greater investment by Dublin City Council is leading to the provision of better facilities and more and more people are returning to the bike as an inexpensive, efficient and environmentally-friendly mode of public transport. Dublin is swiftly becoming a cycling city and the Coca-Cola Zero dublinbikes scheme has been one of the biggest drivers in making this possible, helping to normalise cycling as a formal means of transport.” There’s a longer-term 14 phase expansion planned for the Coca-Cola Zero dublinbikes scheme designed on the principle of incremental phased expansion from the city core, locating bike stations at a frequency of 350-500 metres apart. This will provide a capacity of 5,000 bikes and approximately 300 bike stations throughout the city. www.dublinbikes.ie
of journeys are free on dublinbikes
BIKEBIZ.COM
REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT
‘RIDING THE MOUNTAIN BIKE WAVE’
Northern Ireland has big ambitions to become a prime world-class destination for mountain biking. And the stakes are high – if the strategy comes good, the economy will benefit by £25m. Jonathon Harker reports…
ONE YEAR ago BikeBiz spoke with Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland at the start of the ten-year strategy for mountain biking aimed at raising NI’s profiles as a world class MTB destination. Twelve months on, BikeBiz checks on the progress with Chris Armstrong… How are the plans developing? We are continuing to ride the mountain biking wave here in Northern Ireland. One year into our ten year strategy and we have already made significant progress on a number of key objectives including the completion of initial designs for a National Trail Centre in Gortin Glen Forest Park, a Regional Trail Centre in Garvagh Forest and a Long Distance Ride
30KM
The proposed Gortin Glen Forest Park Trails, near Omagh, will have 30km of MTB trails
36 BIKEBIZ DECEMBER
through the Clogher Valley in the west of the country. Phase II trail designs have also been completed for two of our National Trail Centres in Castlewellan and Davagh Forest. Unfortunately, there has been limited opportunities to access capital funding in NI since we last spoke so we’ve concentrated on getting trail designs ‘shelf ready’ so that we are in the strongest position possible to secure funding as and when opportunities do become available. How have MTBers responded? It has been fantastic to see our trail centres lighting up social media with the likes of former Gee Atherton and Blake Samson singing the praises of Northern Ireland.
Each of our trail centres continue to exceed initial visitor forecasts and locally there is a real sense of ‘ownership’ amongst NI’s MTB community. We are obviously very keen to encourage this sentiment and so we are consulting closely with local riders for future trail designs and phase II developments. For example, we consulted with 1,000 people regarding the potential of a National Trail Centre in Gortin Glen Forest Park and as 86 per cent of respondents were from NI we can now confidently align our own plans with MTBers. You said the public and private sectors, and MTB community, would have to come together to make NI a true MTB destination...
The overwhelming success of NI’s new trail centres is most certainly down to how they have all been cohesively pulling in the same direction. Unlike other parts of the UK, the majority of NI’s trail centres are built on land owned by Forest Service NI who have lease agreements in place with councils. These local authorities then manage and maintain each trail centre so this approach relies heavily on public sector relationships. Our umbrella MountainBikeNI.com consortium of trail managing councils collectively benefits from this collaborative approach and have developed strong working partnerships with private sector trailhead operators and event organisers.
2KM ENDURO CLIMB
Bike Park Ireland, County Tipperary, opened in 2012 and has 4 DH trails and a 2km enduro climb
BIKEBIZ.COM
REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT
The Giro legacy It’s not just the Olympics that can lay claim to a ‘legacy’. The Giro d’Italia’s visit to Northern Ireland and Ireland last year has had a big impact on road cycling in the region, not least with the Gran Fondo, writes Jonathon Harker… EVEN 19 months on from the Giro d’Italia’s Big Start in Belfast and Dublin and the impact is still being felt in the cycling landscape. Maybe in the same way that the 2007 Tour de France Grand Depart in London seemed to act as a catalyst for cycling there, there’s still a buzz felt in NI and not just by bike shops (see page 31) but also event companies who have used the event as a starting point. Shadetree Sports hosted the 2014 Giro Big Start after putting in the winning bid with organiser RCS Sport. “Our working relationship with RCS Sport was very good indeed,” explains Shadetree Sports co-founder Darach McQuaid. “One element we were aware of was their ambition to bring the Giro brand around the world and their expansion of the Giro-branded Gran Fondo series was a big part of this. We attended a Gran Fondo Giro d’Italia event in Miami in 2012 and immediately saw the potential for an event in Northern Ireland.” When the Big Start came around the local reception was enthusiastic, giving Shadetree the confidence to start laying the groundwork for a NI-set Gran Fondo. “When we saw how strong the ‘buy in’ was progressing in NI and how big the welcome was going to be, we engaged with our partners in the NI Executive and Tourism NI to look at an official legacy event of the Giro’s start and the natural fit was the Gran Fondo Giro d’Italia. Minister Arlene Foster gave us a verbal commitment during the Giro’s Big Start, and we worked hard to turn that into a multi-year commitment, which we were able to announce early in 2015.”
3,200
riders participated in the first Gran Fondo Giro d’Italia Northern Ireland
38 BIKEBIZ DECEMBER
The Gran Fondo Giro debuted in June granfondogiroditaliani.com
And so the first Giro d’Italia Gran Fondo took place in June this year and surpassed expectations, with over 3,200 riders taking part in the two routes (the 173km Mourne Route and 58km Strangford Route). It took place on closed roads, achievable thanks to a working relationship with key local partners like PSNI, first forged for the Giro Big Start. The stage venue of Titanic Belfast was the start and finish site and “the perfect location for the weekend’s activities”, says McQuaid. Institutional partners like Tourism NI and Newry, Mourne & Down Council, were on board like sponsors including Farnese Vini (every rider received a bottle of their Italian wine in their goody bag), Menabrea Italian beer,
DeCecco pasta and Moy Park chicken so after finishing riders could enjoy an authentic Italian dinner party. “The atmosphere was really fantastic,” McQuaid says. The event wisely catered for families too, with plenty to keep kids occupied like a Street Velodrome at Titanic Belfast and a Sustrans NI-organised ‘piccolo fondo’. McQuaid adds: “We were also lucky enough to have Stephen Roche and Richie Porte with us for the weekend. Setanta Sports Television broadcast a 30 minute show on the event and we had a full colour supplement in The Belfast Telegraph, so media interest was quite high.” After a strong debut, the organisers have big aspirations:
“We are very ambitious. Clearly there has been an upsurge in cycle sportives so the need to stand out is key to attracting serious numbers of riders. With the Giro d’Italia DNA, fully policed closed roads, Irish hospitality mixed with Italian food and wine –- we feel this Gran Fondo will grow and become one of the ‘must do’ events on the cycle sportif calendar.” Reaching out to riders from England, Scotland and Wales is part of the strategy: “We have ambitions to bring this series to markets in GB and are currently speaking with venues. We also have a strong desire to bring the Giro d’Italia back to NI.” The Gran Fondo Giro d’Italia 2016 will take place June 26th.
POLICE
400 static and 24 police moto escorts policed the 2015 Gran Fondo
BIKEBIZ.COM
CYCLE VISION
Heard it on the grape Vinopolis Missed out on Zyro’s Cycle Vision show? Mark Sutton recaps on the product and services that will shape business in the next year and Mary Portas’ analysis of the challenges facing the modern retailer… Q ALTURA Having undergone a big refresh for 2016, Altura is now split into three segments – urban, road and dirt. On the road front, the new Podium Elite line features European sourced fabrics, blended to offer proper support and compression in the saddle. With triple stitching and use of cordura fabrics, the garments were described by brand director Clint Vosloo as “as hardcore as they can be without being overkill.” Three mountain bike shorts join the Altura catalogue, alongside three inner layers. Look out for the Apache mosaic camo short, 180 cordura short and 360 – a waterproof cordura option. On the inners front, the catalogue features the lightweight ‘Hammock’, protective ProGel utilising Lunchbox and the Protector – a longer leg garment with a ProGel 3D pad and EVA hip protection built in. Q ABUS As you may have spotted at Eurobike and Interbike, Abus has been celebrating ten years of Bordo lock production with a ‘Centium’ edition, BIKEBIZ.COM
built with stainless steel and upgraded with leather effect coatings and a brand new steel and leather carrying bracket. This limited unit comes packaged in a presentation box, with retailers stocking the product benefitting from a matching wooden point of sale holding four units. Matching the Centium style is the Abus Hyban helmet, available early in 2016. Suggested for the commuting cyclist, the Hyban has a stylish chrome finish and Velcro-attached peak to block sunlight. Fitting is handled by the magnetic Fidlock system and like all others in the Hyban line, a rear light with 180-degree visibility slots into the rear of the lid. Q FENWICKS Said to be the first of its kind, Fenwicks has packaged its copper anti-seize product into a tube with nozzle to allow the mechanic greater access when applying solution. What’s more, the inner of the packaging is foil laminated to prevent any contamination. Noticeably, some products have undergone a further packaging
revamp in order to better explain what’s inside and also how to use the product. There’s a series of new brushes available too, each tailored for a specific job. Another first comes here in the form of a water-fed cone brush at £12.99 – ideal for those cleaning a lot of bikes. Q BELL Having dedicated a big chunk of R&D budget to the development of a women’s specific line, Bell debuted the Joyride collection, a personal project of staffer Jessica Klodnicki’s that apparently “snowballed” into something much bigger. Having surveyed 2,000 women in the outdoor world, the line is a culmination of all that feedback, as well as live feedback from over 300 riders. As expected, MIPS makes a big advance within Bell’s line up, trickling down to kids lids as low priced as £45. You’ll now also find the anti rotational injury tech in the Super 2R, Super 2, Stoker and Rush MTB lids, as well as Traverse and Coast commuter helmets.
As explained to gathered crowds in the Bell seminar, the brand is aware that many riders don’t replace their helmets after just one crash, as is advised. Therefore, Bell has introduced the super durable Full Flex, made from EPP – a tougher substance than EPS. Kids lids also benefit from greater protection at the rear of the head, an example being the new Sidetrack helmet. Q MYAGI Going live at Cycle Vision, Myagi now has educational content live for Bell, Giro, Cateye, Altura and Camelbak. For the uninitiated, Myagi is an online brand training platform that allows suppliers and retailers to host product and sales training videos, followed by a short quiz to measure learning outcomes. Retail staff can access the platform on demand, on any web-enabled device and free of charge too. There’s a slight competitive element and incentives for retailers signed up too, with completion of training producing badges to show completion. This in turn reflects well BIKEBIZ DECEMBER 41
CYCLE VISION
Mary Portas addresses retailers The anniversary edition Bordo Centium
The stylish Abus Hyban helmet
Hamax’s new double seater child carrier
MARY PORTAS: “THE ONLY THING THAT MATTERS IN RETAIL IS UNDERSTANDING PEOPLE”
on the store and Myagi’s CEO Simon Turner added that this can be used as a means to reward strong stores with deals on brands for which they have completed training. Q HAMAX A first for Hamax, the brand now has a trailer product to add to its catalogue of bicycle mounted child carriers. With market research suggesting that 65 per cent of parents buy a double carrier, initially Hamax has focused its attention on a double carrier that’s spent the past two and a half years in development, alongside experts in stroller design. A single seater is due later in 2016, Hamax told BikeBiz. The first thing you’ll notice is the distinctive design, which has been profiled to be as aerodynamic as a stroller can reasonably be. High levels of functionality and ease of use are built in, with the unit halving in size 42 BIKEBIZ DECEMBER
with a quick fold down. The wheels push on and off easily to further reduce the footprint. Landing with Zyro late in March, the stroller will cost £649 or £679 with an added stroller wheel. Add on sale items, such as a clip on light, are also to be available. Q GIRO Giro exhibited their brand new Chrono road apparel collection, comprising three performance levels for both men and women. With a ‘Good Better Best’ strategy, Giro has something for everyone. The ‘Sport’ line begins at a very reasonable £59.99 for both jerseys and shorts, with design features and materials akin to more premium level price points. With ‘Expert’ and ‘Pro’ level, premium Italian fabrics are crafted into athletic fitting pieces that are cut for racing. At the summit of the range, the men’s Pro Bib is the result of over two
ADDRESSING THE gathered crowds at Zyro’s Cycle Vision sit down dinner, Mary Portas laid out her vision for how people will consume product in the future. “Digital has changed our retail landscape today. The really great retailers don’t look at the internet as a threat at all, they see it as an opportunity to re-imagine, reshape and redefine the bricks and mortar experience,” said Portas. “Recent studies have found that consumers still spend 61 per cent of their shopping time in stores. The physical store is the choice if it’s done well. And that’s the problem, it has to be done well. We now shop in years of exhaustive design, research and testing – custom straps that disappear into the body and a unique woven lumbar support panel. For women, the Chrono Expert Halter Bib pairs the performance of a bib with the convenience of a short. A special black yarn is used in the premium Miti lycra on both ‘Expert’ and ‘Pro’ level shorts, increasing the longevity and keeping them black
stages. We start with research before we go out. Then when we do go out it’s much more meaningful. That process is sometimes followed by a test or a check of reviews to see if the product meets their needs prior to spending. “Therefore you must optimise your business digitally. What this means for you the retailer is that you must become a shop of discovery and entertainment. That includes positioning yourself as a shop of direct people relationship, where you, the retailer, are seen as the ambassador, the specialist and advisor. We remember immersive experiences.” throughout the lifespan of the short. Developed alongside Cytech, chamois pads are custom throughout the entire line; from Sport to Pro. For outer layers, Giro believe their Chrono wind jackets and vests are the most packable, highest performing and best fitting available. These feature a stretch nylon back panel that hones the fit and moves with you when you ride. BIKEBIZ.COM
BIKE HUB
The Go-Ride Racing series helps young riders develop their racing skills
Industry-funded Go-Ride delivers events throughout the winter It may be cold out there, but thanks to Go-Ride Racing events, there are plenty of opportunities for younger riders to keep pedalling on and receive their first experience of racing events, writes Carlton Reid... DURING 2014/15, 600 Go-Ride Racing events were hosted by Go-Ride clubs and coaches nationwide, providing over 15,000 opportunities for young riders to experience their first racing events. Go-Ride is sponsored by the Bicycle Association’s Bike Hub levy fund. Most of the current Great Britain Cycling Team started out at Go-Ride Clubs. Go-Ride Clubs are encouraged to deliver race series throughout the winter, with those clubs that do so having the opportunity to gain extra resources and enter riders into a special one-off event hosted by British Cycling Go-Ride Coaches. One such race took place in Liverpool recently. The first event of Liverpool Mercury’s Go-Ride Racing series saw young riders donning bibs and lining up to sharpen their racing skills. Over 20 riders were involved in the first of a series of BIKEBIZ.COM
four evening events at Litherland Sports Park. The ages of participants ranged from four- and five-year-olds getting their first taste of racing on balance bikes through to 13- and 14-year-old club members.
develop young riders’ bike handling skills and riding techniques during the races. By taking these tips on board, youngsters improved their performances as the evening went on and races demanded greater
“Go-Ride Racing events are a great way to feel that buzz.” Tre Whyte Paul Paterson, event organiser at Liverpool Mercury, said of the event:“The riders enjoyed the racing immensely; they developed riding techniques like braking, cornering and bunch riding that we work on in our Go-Ride coaching sessions and lead into the racing.” Further handy hints and tips were provided by volunteer coaches to
use of tactics. Coaching and Go-Ride Racing activities such as these hosted by Liverpool Mercury help young people to enjoy cycling and reach their full potential. Stars from the Great Britain Cycling Team are quick to attribute their success to Go-Ride Clubs. Tre Whyte, a BMX rider on the Great Britain Cycling Team and
member of the Peckham Challengers Go-Ride Club said she “loved the thrill of racing with my friends, and Go-Ride Racing events are a great way to feel that buzz.” Reflecting on the support provided at her club, world champion Laura Trott, who first started cycling at Welwyn Wheelers Go-Ride Club, highlighted that “without support from the volunteers at my Go-Ride Club, it’s possible I wouldn’t be where I am today”. The Bike Hub fund is a voluntary levy scheme, which raises money to “safeguard the future of cycling”. Contributors voluntarily donate £1 per £1,000 of goods invoiced and this is matched by the manufacturers, distributors and wholesalers thereby creating a total contribution of £2 per £1,000. Bike Hub raises over £350,000 each year. www.bikehub.co.uk BIKEBIZ DECEMBER 47
RETAIL SURVEY 2015
Things can only get better? It’s time once again for BikeBiz to put its finger on the bike retail pulse with our Retail Survey. Jonathon Harker collates the responses and opinions… THAT THIS YEAR has been a bit of a rollercoaster – thanks in part to a tricky summer – is no surprise to most of the cycle trade, but there’s been a few shifts in the market noted by our retailer readers, from increased competition to – gasp – signs of electric bike market growth. And how about a mountain
bike resurgence? And how confident is the market about trading in 2016? All those questions and market insights are provided here in this year’s BikeBiz Retail Survey. Thanks to all the shops that took part and for being so candid about the state of the bicycle industry.
BY WHAT PERCENTAGE HAVE YOUR ANNUAL PROFITS INCREASED OR DECLINED YEAR-ON-YEAR? A “horrific three months” of an “appalling summer” followed a “reasonable winter of 2014/15”. That was a recurring view from the 100-plus retailers that took part, with another stating it had “very strong growth in the first quarter of 2015 totally reversed from May onwards.” Of course it wasn’t all bad, with a lot of new retailers understandably seeing plenty of growth. And some older retailers were up too: “Busiest year I’ve had in ten years trading” said one, another added: “Still growing by four per cent year-on-year for past five years.” Overall though, far from a positive 12 months for IBDs.
Q Up 50% or more - 4.5% Q Up 30% to 50% - 8.9% Q Up 10% to 30% - 16.1% Q Not much change - 25.9% 48 BIKEBIZ DECEMBER
Q Down 10% to 30% - 41.1% Q Down 30% to 50% - 2.7% Q Down 50% or more - 0.9%
WHICH SECTORS HAVE BEEN MOST POPULAR AND SEEN A RISE IN SALES AND DEMAND? Yes that’s right, road was (virtually) an even split with MTB, adding further weight to a claim of an off-road resurgence. Gravel bikes, cargo bikes (“we have already repaired more cargo bikes this year than we have in all previous years combined”) and women’s road were all singled out by the survey respondents, but it’s worth noting we had a barrage of comments echoing the following sentiments: “All sectors have seen a fall in unit sales.” E-bikes were also noted as growing by a big proportion – almost a quarter. One reader said: “It’s time for e-bikes to stop talking and get growing, the industry really needs another curve now the MAMILs have dropped off the peloton.”
Q Road - 38.3% Q MTB - 36.4% Q Commuter/hybrid - 34.6% Q BMX - 2.8% Q Electric - 23.4%
BIKEBIZ.COM
RETAIL SURVEY 2015
WHAT WILL YOU SPEND ANY INVESTMENT IN THE BUSINESS ON? As admirable as the Living Wage is, one retailer noted it will “make investment in anything difficult this year”. Moving on to those retailers that will be ploughing cash into enhancing their business, respondents picked out investment in manufacturing and increasing showroom square footage. Another retailer noted: “A good online presence definitely pays dividends in store.” With that in mind it’s not surprising to see online trade was the most popular place to spend money, following by POS and redecoration and then expanding stock levels. A high 25.9 per cent will use investment to pay loans or supplier debts.
Q Store security - 6.3% Q Staff wage or hiring - 15.2% Q New store - 9.8% Q Developing online trade - 40.2% Q Expanding stock levels - 25.9% Q Paying loans or supplier debts - 24.1% Q Store vehicles - 4.5% Q Marketing - 28.6% Q Redecoration or point of sale - 32.1% Q Workshop renovation or tooling - 15.2% Q Staff training - 21.4%
HAVE YOU FOUND COMPETITION FOR BUSINESS HAS INCREASED THIS YEAR? It comes as little surprise that the majority of retailers said there was more competition for business, with a paltry four per cent believing there were less retailers vying for customer cash. One telling commentator said: “Our town has gone from five bike stores to 16 in the last five years!” One reader summed up what we’ve heard time and again over the past months: “Corporate cash and a perception our market is growing exponentially has meant more supply with seemingly less demand. It’s been tough this year.” The IBD struggle to match online prices featured prominently here (“Everyone can get parts cheaper, less than cost, than an IBD off the internet.”) But to end on a happy note, one comment read: “Not really any competitors in central London, there is an abundance of customers and shops here regularly direct people to each other.”
Q Yes, there are more competitors - 62.2% Q About the same amount of competitors - 33.3% Q No, there are less competitors - 4.5%
BIKEBIZ.COM
BIKEBIZ DECEMBER 49
RETAIL SURVEY 2015
ARE YOU SELLING MORE OR LESS BIKES WITH FINANCE DEALS THAN THIS TIME LAST YEAR? There’s not been much change in the finance market, so say our readers, with almost two thirds stating there’s been no noticable rise or fall in the number of bikes being sold through finance. In fact quite a few respondents said the sector had been lacklustre, even in cases where it had been pushed hard. One of the respondents told us: “We only started offering finance a year ago so will be able to better answer the question next year... but we would have to say finance has not been as popular as we’d hoped even though we advertise it heavily.” Another was similarly surprised at its popularity: “We have sold nothing on finance this year nor last.” That static view of the finance market was backed still further with those seeing a rise cancelling out those that saw a fall.
Q More - 18.8% Q About the same - 64.4% Q Less - 16.8%
WHAT PORTION OF YOUR BUSINESS DO CYCLE TO WORK SALES REPRESENT? 2015’s figures are so similar to 2014’s that we had to check them twice. But yes, this time last year 54 per cent of retailers said C2W represented between one per cent and 15 per cent of sales while this year...54 per cent said the same. Comments ranged from those frustrated with the loss of margin, to those saying C2W was “much reduced from previous years. Local employers have moved from Cyclescheme and we don’t deal with Halfords vouchers as a matter of principle.” Others were more succinct: “The Government fucked it.” Perhaps most disturbing of all for the long-term, one retailer said cycle to work represented “nearly all sales. Customers who have bought in the past take advantage of the schemes. There’s not many new fresh cyclists.”
Q Over 30% - 12.4% Q Between 15% and 30% - 16.8% Q Between 1% and 15% - 54.0% Q No C2W business - 16.8%
50 BIKEBIZ DECEMBER
BIKEBIZ.COM
RETAIL SURVEY 2015
WOULD YOU FIT A PART THAT HAS BEEN BOUGHT ONLINE OR ELSEWHERE, OR SIMPLY TURN THE CUSTOMER AWAY? There are strong arguments on both sides of this debate, but the vast majority of retailers wouldn’t turn away this kind of business: “It’s a surefire way to kill your shop not fitting internet supplied parts. We will never compete with online giants on price so we have to change strategy. Fitting internet supplied parts still gets you a cut of the pie.” Another pointed out: “Once turned away a customer is unlikely to come back...” Other retailers used the opportunity to explain where online can’t compete: “We often use this to our advantage with poor choice of purchase and lack of buyers knowledge.” Backing that point, one shop said: ”It gives us the opportunity to demonstrate why we would prefer customers asked us first if we could supply the part and allows us to show we would have appreciated the opportunity. We do also have a high level of incorrect parts brought in by customers and so the customer then has to deal with whichever online operation they bought their part from to attempt to exchange for the correct part. It can be a useful lesson learnt by the customer who is then more likely to give us the opportunity next time to supply and fit the part.”
Q I’d do the job - 81.4%
Q I would refuse the job - 1.8%
Q Depends on the job - 16.8%
HOW CONFIDENT DO YOU FEEL ABOUT TRADING IN 2016? Despite what has been a tough year for retail, the nation’s bike shops are clearly a hardy lot, with most feeling confident about trading in 2016. But, it must be noted, there’s a hefty dose of realism about how much of a struggle it’s going to be. Almost a third of respondents said they don’t feel confident about trading in the coming 12 months. Compared to the end of 2014, fewer shops are optimistic about the next year’s trading (down from 74 per cent to 69 per cent). With little optimism about government spending on cycling as the Treasury continues to tighten its belt (page 86) and no doubt more competitors entering the market, it has to be hoped that Rio 2016 and other cycle sporting events can help buoy the market. Over to our respondents: “I have shut down one major side shop and if we don’t do well this year we will close. We have traded for over 20 years, but internet rules so goodbye High Street.” “This is like the recession back in the ‘80s and ‘90s, hard but keep the faith.” An enormous thank you to all the retailers who took to the polls for the BikeBiz Retail Survey 2015. Read more comments from the Retail Survey on page 77. Have your say on the survey by emailing Bikebiz@nbmedia.com
52 BIKEBIZ DECEMBER
Q I feel confident about my business in 2016 - 69% Q I don’t feel confident about my business in 2016 - 31%
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RETAIL ONLY THE TRADE’S GUIDE TO SOURCING STOCK, UP-AND-COMING IBDS AND THE VERY LATEST PRODUCTS
RETAIL
STATS £810M The figure spent during Black Friday last year. The record is predicted to be topped in 2015.
6.6% WE’RE STILL SELLING BIKES, RIGHT? OPINION IT’S BEING going on for longer than bicycles have existed. Back in the spotlight with Save Our Soles’ ‘Sockgate’ and Colnago’s social media department’s recent error of judgement – the way our industry portrays itself is occasionally so far from ‘modern day’ attitudes it’s scary. I’m not overly prudish, but I am concerned we’re blowing a huge opportunity to get more people on bikes with some attitudes best consigned to the ‘50s. Despite the fact I’ve just stumbled across a pro flatland rider promoting sex toys in a disturbing, yet impressive, video I’d like to believe we’re not a bunch of lust-obsessed cavemen. BIKEBIZ.COM
In a day and age where the music industry – to name just one – normalises a lack of respect for women, it’s easy to let your eyes glaze over when confronted with the ‘sex sells’ approach to marketing. But we’re not the music industry and (even in Vegas) there should be a basic standard if we’re ever to cast off the ‘not for girls’ image that has previously (and sometimes still does) come across in cycle marketing.
“I’d like to believe we’re not all sex-obsessed cavemen...” But is it just in marketing? Turns out it’s pretty easy to buy the right fatbike for your needs no matter where you are in the world. Try doing the same if you’re a woman looking for a performance build. It’s only recently becoming a real option (at a limited number of price points compared to men’s) and that really is pretty staggering. Why is
research and development money only just balancing out to represent half of the population? And why are we spending so much on quirky, yet often superfluous, ideas when there’s this gaping void to make drastic improvements within? Women’s cycling as a segment is growing faster than any other, as is the willingness to spend a larger amount on kit. Things are improving and quickly, but we’re so far behind it feels almost embarassing to point the women in my life toward what should be a plethora of serious bike kit. You expect there to be more choice given what’s available for the adrenalineseeking male. You’d also expect ‘shrink it and pink it’ to not represent such a big chunk of what’s available. Despite being a male dominated industry, we’re making solid progress in recruitment and as a result, product and attitudes. That has to continue, for the benefit of all of us – our customers, our wives and our kids – cycling is for everyone. msutton@nbmedia.com
Barclays has suggested that ‘nonessential’ spend is rising – up to 6.6 per cent of transactions in October – higher than any point in 2014.
Colin Rees sales tips: p72 NEW PRODUCTS: A round-up of some new cycle products available this month.
p56 E-BIKES The latest news p58 SECTOR GUIDE: Footwear p62 SECTOR GUIDE: Wheels and rubber p66 BIKEBIZ DECEMBER 55
RETAIL ONLY
NEW PRODUCTS
This month we’re looking at fine tuning your customer’s ride, with some slickening of both their cables and the contact with their saddle, as well an affordable new Enigma steel build.
HUEZ RACE DAY JERSEY Direct to retail: 0203 754 4681 The Huez team collaborated with a handful of professional riders to design its ‘Race Day Jersey’. Using a blend of polyester, polyamide and carbon fibres, the jersey is highly breathable and includes mesh inserts under the sleeves to give extra airflow. The cut is tailored to fit ergonomically on the body
MUC-OFF CHAMOIS CREAM Fisher Outdoor Leisure: 01727 798 345 while in the saddle with silicone grippers to keep the garment firmly in place. There’s added reflective tabs at the side seams and hidden reflective bands on the elongated sleeves to ensure the wearer is highly visible at night. A removable waterproof pouch is included in one of the three rear cargo pockets.
ENIGMA EZONA Direct to retail: 01323 845849 Based on the geometry of the popular Etape, Enigma’s new Ezona offers a value for money Columbus double butted package perfect for harsher weather conditions. The UK-made build now boasts an integrated headset and an upgraded Columbus Life 31.7mm seat 56 BIKEBIZ DECEMBER
Muc-Off has further built on its athlete performance line with the addition of a chamois cream. Retailing at £20 for a 25ml tub, the anti-bacterial lubricant kills off 99 per cent of germs. Enriched with natural aloe vera, witch hazel, shea butter and sunflower oil, the blend is both kind to skin and fragrant, as
well as offering a mildly cooling sensation. What’s more, it’s free from nasty parabens and formaldehyde. There’s plenty more in the body care line from Muc-Off too, so if you already stock the cleaner, why not offer your customers some added in-thesaddle comfort.
VEL FLOW CABLES Cooke Components: 01256 880739 tube for added stiffness, further enhancing the ride characteristics and performance. Retailing at £799 for a frame and fork package, or at £1,499 for a complete bike with Mavic Askium wheels and a Shimano 105 gearset, the Ezona’s built to last.
Retailing at £19.99 per set, with apparently strong margin, VEL’s Flow cable pack includes two inner cables, one 1.75m length of outer, six frame protectors, ten end ferrules and two inner caps. The cables use a pre-stretched extra smooth, hammered stainless steel inner cable coupled to a lined outer to produce a low
friction interface. This ensures smooth braking and accurate shifting without the wear and clogging often associated with PTFE coated cables. The VEL Flow gear cable sets are ideal for both MTB and road whilst, at present, the brake cables are aimed at road use. Six colours are on sale now. BIKEBIZ.COM
Sponsored by
ELECTRIC BIKES
EBC’s inaugural e-bike event brought together 75 dealers for seminars and product launches
New e-bike event branded a success EBC show attracts e-bike specialists, mainstream IBDs and chains alike SEVENTY-FIVE dealers attended the inaugural three-day ‘ebike 2016’ show hosted by EBC at Warwick’s Holiday Inn Hotel. Pitched as a one-stop-shop with new bike launches, a tech desk, demo rides and training seminars, the event took place close to EBC’s HQ in the town. EBC said the show was: “A hugely successful event and illustrates the growing interest in e-bikes in the UK market and not just from e-bike specialists but also from mainstream independent bike dealers and multiple chains in the UK.” Seminars with full accreditation covered Bosch, TranzX and Shimano, focused on the latest technology and how to manage and service the hardware and software for the systems. EBC also used the event to launch new signing Corratec e-bikes (see inset). 58 BIKEBIZ DECEMBER
EBC MD Paul Stanforth explained: “We created EBC to be leaders in the e-bike market. Now we have dealer training, our in-house technical back up, a spare parts service and an extended product range from EBCO featuring Shimano Steps
Peter Dark of Dark Cycles said the show was “well worth the time out as I now can talk with confidence on the overhaul /service work of an e-bike.” Fellow attendee Nigel Kernan of Cycle World added: “Having all three main brands together allowed
“Now the EBC e-bike line-up ranges from £899 to £4,000.” Paul Stanforth and Bosch plus the addition of the respected German-made Corratec brand so EBC has a broad range from £899 to £4,000. The success of the ebike 2016 event plus the growth in the electric bike market is proof positive that we are achieving our ambitions.”
us to make comparisons, speak to the experts and test ride some bikes. Going away with a certificate to hang proudly in the shops should give our customers the faith in us and realise that they are making the right choice when deciding which electric bike to choose.”
EBC TAKES ON CORRATEC CORRATEC E-BIKES cover urban, urban sport, off-road www.ebco-ebikes.co.uk hardtail and full sus e-bikes, all made in its factory in Bavaria, Germany. Now EBC will be distributing the range. Retail prices range from £1,999 to £3,999, with systems powered by Bosch and Shimano Steps (on urban bikes). EMC MD Paul Stanforth said: “This is a great time for electric bikes in the UK. We are now seeing e-bikes as the fastest growing sector in the bike industry. “Adding Corratec to our portfolio brings to our dealers a comprehensive range of high quality German-engineered and manufactured e-bikes that complement our existing range. Ensuring EBC dealers can offer their customers a selection of the best e-bikes in the market place.” ebco-ebikes.co.uk BIKEBIZ.COM
Sponsored by
ELECTRIC BIKES
Shops called on to shun e-bike dongles Fli, KTM, Raleigh, Scott and Bosch among those condemning electric bike modifications and those who sell them CYCLING MADE Easy is one of the electric bike dealers lining up to condemn e-bike dongles. Last month Fli Distribution – UK distributor of KTM bikes – started a debate on illegal modified e-bikes, calling on brands and suppliers to take a tougher stance on shops selling e-bikes with dongles. The distributor argued that the dongle-fitted electric bikes, which remove speed restrictions, are illegal, dangerous and if involved in an incident could result in e-MTB bans from trail centres, “killing the off-road e-bike industry before it’s even got started”. Others backed Fli’s lead and warned it could negatively affect all MTBs with potential bans. Big names in the e-bike industry have echoed the call. Raleigh issued letters last month
to its customers on the topic “strongly advising” against using such products and services or “attempting to modify any electric system to work outside of the parameters set out by both e-bike and relevant parts manufacturer.”
Raleigh goes further and insists Raleigh, Koga and Haibike Electric stockists “provide clear information on de-regulation for your customers on your website and in-store” that make the legal, safety and warranty implications clear.
Cycling Made Easy of Coulsdon, Surrey has spelled out its policy on dongles in response. Ray Wookey said: “The problem of e-bike tuning has been under more and more scrutiny. As one of the UK’s largest retailers of e-bikes, we want to make our position clear. “We at Cycling Made Easy have been consistent from the start: We do not encourage or recommend that our customers fit e-bike dongles. We do not sell nor encourage anybody to supply, fit or use them.” The firm warned: “All it will take is one ‘incident’ involving an illegally tuned e-bike, and the public could turn against e-bikes in general...E-bikes would be vilified and discouraged.” Tell us what you think on BikeBiz@nbmedia.com
Time to plan for Black Friday 2016 Ecommerce experts Citrus-Lime take us through pros and cons of tapping into Black Friday… BLACK FRIDAY originated in the US as a pre-Thanksgiving sale event. It has become a significant day for retailers in the UK, and is now considered the start of the Christmas shopping period. The significance of Black Friday There are advantages to be had by embracing Black Friday, however there are concerns that Black Friday hasn’t driven sales during the season, but merely changed shopping behaviours. That said it wasn’t a day to ignore. Planning It’s wise to view Black Friday as one campaign of many during the Winter/Christmas season. Possible campaigns include the last shipping day, stocking fillers, weather-related offers, 12 days of Christmas, extended returns policy, Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Christmas day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day and January sales. Looking to next year already? Were you pleased with this year’s Black Friday results? Is there 60 BIKEBIZ DECEMBER
anything you wish you had done? Now is the time to consider next year’s plan whilst this year’s results can be reviewed fresh in your mind. Black Friday Choices for 2016 Q How did your customers shop? What did they buy? Are customers buying new bikes just because they are on sale, or are they buying stocking fillers? Black Friday retailers really had to consider what promotions which would appeal to their customer base. Did this work for you? Q What does your brand or store represent to customers? For example, are you a specialist retailer or a discount store? If you chose to offer simple discounts the message is clear, but if you didn’t want your message to get lost in competitors “sales noise” did you have any original ideas that got you noticed above the standard “Black Friday Flash Sale – Super Reductions”. Q In 2016 have you the finance and resources to implement
an effective campaign? Email Marketing, website banners and remarketing tools are key to such campaigns. Poor design or incorrect execution may have portrayed the wrong image. Q Lastly, know your product and sales data. You’ll make better profit margins on some products, which can therefore afford to take a hit on Black Friday? Using the right tools A marketing campaign must be coherent across all communications, typically including email marketing, website look and feel, and Google remarketing and social media. Key things to consider Q Did you have the right commercial offering? Q How will did your operations team cope? If you would like any more information on managing retail marketing campaigns please give Citrus-Lime a call on 01229 588628 or email on info@citruslime.com BIKEBIZ.COM
BIKEBIZ.COM
BIKEBIZ XXXXXXX XX
FOOTWEAR
Put your foot in it Riding in winter can be challenging for all the wrong reasons if you don’t have footwear designed to handle the season’s weather. Jonathon Harker looks at some of the options currently available
SMS POLLED SPORTIVE RIDERS TO FIND THEIR PURCHASE POINT FOR SHOES: INDEPENDENT BIKE DEALER
ONLINE RETAILER
SPECIALITY BIKE RETAIL CHAIN
36%
33%
13%
(Source: SPORTS MARKETING SURVEYS INC.)
BOB ELLIOT
CHICKEN CYCLEKIT
01772 459 887
01525 381347
FLR’s F-35 road shoes feature a sole made of lightweight reinforced injection fibreglass. The vent port at the front keeps the foot cool and the sole has two non-slip treads for safe walking. Also via Bob Elliot and timed for the winter market is Funkier’s OSW-04 Waterproof Overshoe. At £24.99, this waterproof microfleece is made of a 95 per cent polyester and five per cent lycra combination with a reflective zipper.
The new Vittoria 1976 Evo shoe bundles vintage styling with racewinning performance and technology. The durable Lorica covered shoe is available in three colours and uses the carbon sole from the top end Ikon shoe. A speedplay compatible model is available to special order, along with a range of half sizes. To become a Vittoria stockist, dealers should contact their account manager or speak to the sales office.
CUBE
b2b.cube.eu
Cube’s MTB C:62 shoes are based on a superstiff and superlight outsole made from C:62 carbon. Detailing includes turnlock and Velcro fasteners while the Cube wings mean riders can adjust the Velcro even while wearing thick winter gloves. The upper allows for constant ventilation and the protective shield placed over the toes helps prevent injuries. RRP is £169.99.
62 BIKEBIZ DECEMBER
ENDURA
extranet.endura.co.uk
Endura’s Freezing Point Overshoe (£39.99) is designed to fend off the cold and keep feet temperature regulated during the winter months. The fleece-lined neoprene traps warmth inside while handily leaving water and wind on the outside. It closes at the rear with a durable and easy-to-use zip while Velcro heel tabs provide a snug fit.
BIKEBIZ.COM
FOOTWEAR
I-RIDE
01444 243000
MADISON
madisonb2b.co.uk
Shimano’s RP9 (£174.99) is a flagship Road Performance shoe designed for long days in the saddle. Fit, therefore, is hugely important and the shoe takes care of this with an adaptable closure system that adapts to various instep heights and shapes. The surround upper pattern balances holding power and allday comfort and an air vent on the toe and exhaust ports on the sole help keep feet dry and fresh. Meanwhile the Shimano AM700 (£89.99, pictured) is an all MTB and DH shoe with a durable high grip Vibram outsole for maximum control and an asymmetrically raised padded ankle collar.
Northwave’s Fahrenheit Arctic GTX uses Gore-Tex technology (and is reportedly the only cycle shoe brand to use it). The Koala membrane offers insulation and protection from the rain while retaining breathability. A thermowelded upper comes without stitching and an NRG Air Carbon Reinforced sole provides increased stiffness when pedalling. RRP is £179.99.
MOORE LARGE
SILVERFISH
01332 274252
Spiuk is exclusive in the UK via Silverfish with a range of road and MTB shoes for a variety of budgets. The Spiuk 16RC shoes are high performance road shoes that are lightweight and highly breathable with a stiff carbon fibre sole. They feature a thermo mouldable shell that adapts to the rider’s foot for a personalised fit. Spiuk also currently offers the 16RC in a limited edition Matt Black. RRP is £179.95 with the Spiuk range starting at £59.95 RRP.
Lake’s 145 is available in MTB (MX) or Road (CX) versions for mild, wet weather – for when race shoes are too cold or winter boots are too warm. The upper features waxed canvas, water resistant leather and a waterproof membrane. The sole system is key to the MX145, using Glass Injected Nylon sole and a technically advanced rubber sole courtesy of Hypergrip, with Ice Lock tread inserts.
VAUDE
WW.VAUDE.COM
The Tonale is made for Trans-Alp bikers and freeriders. The midhigh boot comes with water-shedding Nubuck leather with Ceplex Pro membrane. The Vibram All Mountain NT sole is built stiff and a special profile structure prevents dirt from clogging up the lugs. Robust rubber caps at the toes and heel offer further protection in tough wear and tear conditions.
64 BIKEBIZ DECEMBER
ZYRO
WWW.SILVERFISH-UK.COM
WWW.ZYROB2B.CO.UK
Giro’s Empire ACC Reflective (£229.99) uses a reflective coating built into the microfibre upper, glowing brightly when hit by street or headlights. An Easton EC90 ACC full carbon sole offers plenty of stiffness. Reflectivity is also available in the adventure-inspired Republic LX (£149.99). Giro also has socks to offer while Altura’s Thermostretch Performance Overshoe retails at £34.99.
BIKEBIZ.COM
F O R
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p54 Brompton boss gets honoured Will Butler-Adams is to become an OBE. We caught up with him en route to Buckingham Palace.
2016
FORWARD FEATURES
B U S I N E S S p50 Go-Ride What has a year of bike industry support achieved at the Go-Ride grass roots?
What is Fisher Outdoor Leisure doing to back independent dealers?
Show business
We bring you reports and previews from a huge range of bike shows, including Core Bike, the Bike Place, iceBike*, the Bike Show, Bike Expo, Claud Butler, Dawes Cycles…a London nd more
p34 Innovation Lab
p62 Soho Bikes
Who is innovating at the London Bike Show?
p66 Urban bikes
We speak to the months-old London business
p71 Helmets
Folders, city bikes and more are covered in our round-up
Products to cover your noggin for the road, MTB and beyond
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@bikebizonline | facebook.c
om/bikebiz
F O R
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p17 Energy to burn
B U S I N E S S p47 X-treme apparel
BikeBiz paid a visit to Chicken CycleKit, which has been making the most of the road cycling wave
We get down to the nitty gritty with some of the sector’s big names…
JULY 2016 Cyclocross Bikes & Accessories Cycle Lights Drive Train: Chains, Gears & Cranks
B I K E
p25 Chicken rides the wave
Are there too many nutrition brands in the cycle market?
JANUARY 2016 Core Bike Show issue: Extra distribution Bike Place Show Issue: Extra Distribution
B I K E
p48 Fisher lines up Zipp support
Verona-based X-bionic is seeking a bigger presence in the UK. We headed to their factory to see the gear first-hand
Made in
the UK
British manufacturers big and small are covered in our special feature, as are the highlight builds from the Bespoked UK handmad e bike show, starting page 44.
p33
FEBRUARY 2016 London Bike Show issue: Extra distribution Made in Britain: Manufacturing Special MARCH 2016 Innovation Lab special Includes Brit List supplement
Cycle Media Focus: Magazines & Websites APRIL 2016 Regional Spotlight: Wales & South West MAY 2016 The UK’s Top 20 IBDs JUNE 2016 Women of the Year issue: Extra distribution Regional Spotlight: London & South East Includes Women of the Year Supplement
AUGUST 2016 Eurobike issue Regional Spotlight: North England & Scotland
p61 Cycling celebs
p53 In a Spin
Velorution is the place to be to spot starry-riders, it seems...
p14 Head-to-toe
A brand new location for this month’s quirky Spin London
p75 Women’s cycling
Giro is pitching its full apparel line-up to the trade
We round-up bikes and P&A pitched at female cyclists
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SEPTEMBER 2016 Children’s Bikes, Trailer Bikes, Helmets & Accessories Indoor Training Clothing & Accessories: Winter & Reflective
F O R
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B I K E
B U S I N E S S
p27 Pumped up
p35 Northern exposure
Find out how SKS turned into a €50 million company as BikeBiz is let loose in the brand’s head quarters in Sundern, Germany
BikeBiz was among a select bunch of UK cycle journos that made it to Eurobike’s new preview media days in Austria
Businesses in Scotland and the North of England speak out in this month’s spotlight
SHOW SPECTACULAR
It’s new products galore and more show coverage than you can shake a mini pump at, including pre-Eurobike previews, brought to you from across the world (well, Europe and the US)…
p8–9, p13–p24, p27–2 8 and p48
OCTOBER 2016 Regional Spotlight: The Midlands Cycle Show issue: Extra distribution
p51 Hub and Spoke
Harlow’s social enterprise has become a focal point for locals
NOVEMBER 2016 Cycling Media Awards 2016
E V E R Y O N E
p13 Eurobike previews
p67 LIGHTS!
p63 CAMERAS!
Our guide to some of the latest lights for dealers to stock
Cameras and other gadgets now available to retailers
p59 AND MTBS!
Some of the latest bikes and clothing built for off-roading
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ISSUE 116 SEPTEMBE R 2015
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F O R
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p11 The BA’s A-Team
DECEMBER 2016 Retail Survey 2016 Includes the BikeBiz Directory 2017
T H E
B I K E
B U S I N E S S
p26 Fabric unpicked
Bicycle Association boss Paul Stewart tells us why the BA is reaching out to the industry to strengthen its ranks
Didn’t go to Eurobike? We bring you new product from GT, Cannondale and Fabric, only without the flights
p53 You be the judge
RECOGNISING EXCELLENCE WITHIN THE UK CYCLE TRADE
How do you plead? Guilty of not getting around to judging the BikeBiz Awards? There’s still time!
UK SHOW
Regional Spotlight: Northern Ireland & Republic of Ireland
RECORD BRE AKERS
Cycle Show 2015 is set to be the biggest yet, meanwhile Core Bike debut, proving the UK Live has an impressive trade’s appetite for cycle events shows no sign of fading…
p19–29 & p36–42
p8 Out in the country
The UK’s largest outdoor trade show takes place next month.
p49 i-ride around
The Velodrome Tour is back. We went along to i-ride’s show
p63 Winter clothing
It’s cold ‘oop North and ‘daan South too. Time to layer up
p73 Children’s bikes
There’s life in the kid’s market yet with plenty to stock in
03 BB116 EditCover_final.ind d 1
ISSUE 110 MARCH 2015
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om/bikebiz
Want to advertise in any of these issues? Contact Richard Setters 020 7354 6000 or email rsetters@nbmedia.com
F O R
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I N
p41 The show’s not over
T H E
B I K E
B U S I N E S S
p16 Most Excel-lent bikes
Bike Expo rounds off the early show season off. We provide a preview of what to see at the revamped Manchester event
p61 Assisted sales We’ve something of an electric bike extravaganza this month, with a
BikeBiz trawls the London Bike Show for hot new product and fresh deals. Also includes scooters.
sector guide, opinion and news.
Hold the front page It’s been a big 12 months for the cycle world’s media, with takeovers and launches galore. We wrap up the deals and go in-depth.
Want your company or product to be involved with any of these features? Contact Jon Harker jharker@nbmedia.com or call 01992 535646
p45
p13 Raleigh your resources
News from the brand’s
own
p24 Pearson’s Cycles
p61
p75
WHEELS AND TYRES
Roll up, roll up Have a customer keen to upgrade their wheels, or simply make a change of rubber as the weather turns? Mark Sutton rounds up some of the product highlights from a variety of distributors stocking all shapes and sizes of wheels and rubber...
ITS CYCLING 01403 711813 Growing rapidly in popularity, wheelsets like the 23mm wide Hunt 4 Season Dura are catching the eye of many lately. This wheelset gives plenty of tyre volume, as well as significantly increasing comfort and grip. The deeper rim and braking track is specifically designed for winter use, with CNC machined grooves created to help move water and dirt away from the pads quickly.
MADISON
EXTRA
01908 326000
01933 672 170
Bringing a lot of tech to an affordable price point, Shimano’s XT M8020 Trail wheels come in at £194.99 for a rear and £174.99 for the front wheel. Strong, light and durable, the UST tubeless ready wheels will house 2 to 2.4” tyres, rolling on wide-spaced high precision bearings. A quick freehub body has a pawl engagement every ten degrees. This body will take 8, 9, 10 and 11-speed cassettes and offer Centre.
With Maxxis now within the Extra stable, retailers have access to a wide portfolio of rubber for all uses. Best known for their off-road tyres, Maxxis also has a broad range of Racing, Performance and commuter tyres for road bikes (including Tubeless options), Cyclocross, BMX, Urban as well as newly emerging fat bike and plus size mountain bike tyres.
CHICKEN CYCLEKIT
01525 381347
With Miche and Vittoria found within its stocks, Chicken CycleKit has plenty to offer for both wheelset and tyre upgrades. Notably, Vittoria has recently teamed up with an Italian materialsscience company, Directa Plus, to create “the material of the future” in the cycle market. They’ve developed a practical method of adding a Graphene-based material, Graphene Plus (G+), into bicycle tyres.
66 BIKEBIZ DECEMBER
BIKE TYRESTORE 0800 281413 Currently in transition between ex-label Rubena and the new Mitas branding, Rubena is investing in the bicycle tyre side of the business with more research and development. Two of this year’s highlights are the Hook and Flash tyres, available in both ‘Hobby’ and ‘Economy’. ‘Hobby’ level incorporates a new antipuncture technology with a 4mm protective rubber belt and combined with reflective sidewalls. BIKEBIZ.COM
UK DISTRIBUTION FOR THE BEST BRANDS IN MTB
Jungle Products Ltd New York Mills, Summerbridge Harrogate, HG3 4LA
01423 780 088 info@jungleproducts.co.uk | jungleproducts.co.uk
Are you fed up with online price shagging? Our brands are not for sale online so you keep your margins Dealers sought for:
Produc t Code
03028
Please contact us: Impact Cycle Trading Ltd 0208 123 5314
info@impactct.co.uk
WHEELS AND TYRES
COYOTE SPORTS 01473 652768 For the customer who comes in constantly bemoaning punctures, it’s worth considering Coyote’s new addition, Tannus Tyres. The solid rubber tyres are sold in many key dimensions, for both kids and adult bikes, with a more performance orientated unit recently added for road bikes in the Aither 1.1. Behaving like a 100 psi tyre, these would be ideal for the speedier commuter.
PALIGAP
ZYRO
01454 313116
01325 741200
Stan’s NoTubes continues to develop its offering of tubeless ready carbon wheels with the release of Avion, a disc rim laced onto its new Neo and Neo Ultimate hubs. Featuring a unique and patented internal design, they are optimised for tubeless use for road, gravel and cyclo-cross. With a 28mm external width these £1,495 wheels are perfect for the new generation of high volume tubeless tyres.
To keep customers rolling, Zyro is able to supply both Wilkinson Wheels’ UK assembled road, mountain bike and hybrid catalogue, as well as rubber brand Panaracer. A highlight of the Panaracer line this season is the all season Race D Evo, retailing at £39.99. Offering protection against punctures, as well as a tough 3D bead to bead casing that will help stop sidewall damage, the Race D Evo is designed to offer grip in all conditions.
MOORE LARGE
01332 274200
Available in both 27.5 or 29-inch, American Classic’s brand new tubeless ready Smokin Gun’ wheelset carries a 40mm wide inner rim profile, widening the tyre and offering the rider greater air volume and resulting in improved traction and control. Both front and rear have a 6-bolt disc hub, with the rear open to taking 12 x 142mm, standard QR or boost 148mm axles. SRAM or Shimano ten or 11-speed cassettes are compatible.
68 BIKEBIZ DECEMBER
GREYVILLE 0845 1661983 Hand assembled in the UK, Momentum Wheels are manufactured exclusively for Greyville and are available for next day delivery to dealers. A highlight is the “Solo”, a single speed reversible rear wheel with an Acor “flip flop” hub for use with either single speed, freewheel or threaded fixed sprocket. A rear sells at just £69.95, while a wheelset retails for £124.95. Both roll on sealed bearings and a solid axle fitted to a 32 hole Weinmann DP18 rim. BIKEBIZ.COM
Bike Frame Stickers Visit our new website
Get your name around, remind your customers where they bought their bike or accessories and where to take it for a service. Any size, shape up to 60x40mm, 1-3 colours include laminate so no scratching. 500 ÂŁ92 1000 ÂŁ120 2000 ÂŁ165 Origination ÂŁ30
www top tube stickers up to 20x150mm. 1 colour on clear 500 ÂŁ105 1000 ÂŁ145 2000 ÂŁ190 Origination ÂŁ20
(IGH 7YCOMBE WWW FREEWHEELIN BIKES CO UK
www.cycle-world.co.uk Serviced By -
Tel. 01479 870 050
LONGHAM, 01202 590414 RINGWOOD, 01425 470835
Sales - Service - Setup - Repairs
Gomm Road, High Wycombe, Bucks, HP13 7DJ
Telephone: (44) (0) 1494 530761 email: sales@adcal-labels.co.uk
adcal-labels.co.uk/labels/bicycle-retailers
WHEELS AND TYRES
CAMBRIAN TYRES 01970 626777 As supplier of both EDCO Wheels and Continental tyres, Cambrian is a strong source for wheel upgrades. With a dedicated UK service centre and crash replacement programme opening for 2016, EDCO are a viable alternative wheel brand with 2016 price points set at £549, £999, £1299 to £1499 and £1999 to £2099. Edco’s patented rim drilling machine means every rim is drilled at the correct angle (from the centre outwards), eliminating unnecessary tension on the spokes.
SILVERFISH
COOKE COMPONENTS
01752 843882
01256 880 739
Race Face, Easton and e*Thirteen are all found with Silverfish, as is Onza’s tyre portfolio. Since its introduction, Onza has been well received in the press, with competitive price points, as well as strong stocks of various inner tube sizes. The Onza Ibex and Canis are the trail/XC tyres in the range and come with a choice of compounds and black or skinwall finishes across 26”, 27.5” and 29” sizes.
Cooke Components are the exclusive UK distributor for Veltec wheels. These handmade German wheels offer a range of options for road and MTB, from training to race day wheels. For training purposes, or for those on a budget, the Veltec Speed AL wheelset is a 42mm alloy clincher with an 18mm rim width weighing in at 1,810g. Priced at only £375, this includes skewers and disc hub availability.
SCOPE:
ISON DISTRIBUTION
0031 10345 3510
01353 662662
Available to UK retailers via Cube’s distributor, Scope is a high-end wheel choice for the aspirational cyclist. The brand’s advanced full carbon clincher rims are mainly built up from unidirectional (UD) carbon, providing stiffness and vibration damping. In addition, nipple section and tyre beds are made from robust 3K-carbon. The braking surface can handle an industry leading braking power of 1.300W without heat issues.
Catering for the fast evolving Plus sized market, Halo has the new Vapour 35. Designed for XC, Trail and BikePacking use, it features a brand new, tubelessready and profiled 35mm wide alloy rim, sold in 27.5 and 29-inch sizes. A tyre up to 3 inches will happily seat in the rim bed, offering large volume and great traction to the rider.
70 BIKEBIZ DECEMBER
BIKEBIZ.COM
BIKE SHOP TOOLS
HOW MANY FREE, SILENT SALESMEN DO YOU HAVE? How can retailers increase their chances of securing consumer purchases using silent salesmen? Sales trainer and business consultant Colin Rees shares more tips and ideas for bike shops of all sizes… EVERY NEW BUSINESS learns a very important lesson, very quickly. There is more to making a profit than simply selling stuff. Saving costs can be a powerful way to watch net profit increase. Most staff only know one fiscal description, ‘margin’, which has little relation to net profit, the reason we all bother. Reviewing stock levels can be a thankless task but can be beneficial in reducing capital tied up in product. Eliminating the ‘just in case’ syndrome in ordering is a profitable attitude change. Selling old items at cost price, for instance, is something no retailer wants as it shows they made a bad choice, but markets change and freeing up space makes financial, moral and storage space. There are new ways available to increase sales without cost once established. We might not be Facebook or Twitter geeks, but those who are represent a huge market for you. This year, I was training in a retail business that had decided years ago to develop a web-based operation. Today, it is turning over millions and one way it achieves does that is by employing five people on outgoing social media and four dealing with incoming 72 BIKEBIZ DECEMBER
responses; that is apart from the 20 manning telephones and emails. No, the small, family retailer cannot compete with that, but so as not to be left behind, a slice of that business can be captured. If you are not the ‘Facebook or Twitter type’, there are lots who are. A Saturday lad in the office might be the place to start. Recently, I took a look at my front gates which had been hanging since I bought my house years ago. They were in a pretty bad state after years of papering over the
salesman – which once created does not have to cost a cent except like the Sadlin, a makeover every couple of years. There are many small bike shops doing very nicely thank you from their websales. How about your store? If I walk around, how many sales suggestions will I see? Small cards, perhaps humorous comments that make me think, ‘do I need it?’ Look in any supermarket and see how many times you’re forced to read something. Then look at your shop: Do you even have logos in-store so
“Silent salesmen can add revenue at nill cost. Enough said.” Colin Rees cracks with Sadlin. The time had come to replace them, so I went online to see the options. I was surprised at the number of sites where I could buy new gates against the others, which offered me a phone call to discuss things. The latter had some stunning product photographs but I couldn’t place an order – what a waste of what it cost to build the site! For little more, that owner could have added that facility – a silent
if I have good experience, I know where I’ve been? For some, browsers are hated as they “waste people’s time”. Or are they just Q3s, the human behaviour group that find it hard to make decisions and need extra time to think about options? Grouping products together, making suggestions around the store, these are silent, unpaid sales people who can turn a ‘timewaster’ into a paying customer.
The customers who come in and have a good experience can be silent sales people too. If you know it’s going well and someone buys something they‘ll love, your sales staff can ask if they have any other biking friends that might like to see what is on offer at your store and part with their contact details in return for a £5 off coupon? If you have a coupon in your pocket, next time you need something bikey, where will you go? Give the customer one to give to a friend if you wish, it is you they have to come to, to redeem it. The changing room in a bike shop is where a customer will spend time. Almost every changing room in the UK has absolutely nothing in it but a mirror. What a missed opportunity to tell people who spend time there, how good you are. What is in your changing room? Is it promotionally blank? Silent salesmen can add revenue to bicycle retailers at nil cost. Enough said.
COLIN REES Sales Trainer and business consultant E: Colinrees7 @gmail.com P: 07540 351530 W: colinrees7.wordpress.com BIKEBIZ.COM
THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO RETAILERS, SUPPLIERS AND SERVICES WITHIN THE CYCLE TRADE
DOING MORE TO SUPPORT UK IBDS B2B SERVICES
HOME DELIVERY
EPOS FEED
ONLINE PAYMENTS
GROUPSET BUILDER
YOU SELL IT, WE’LL DELIVER IT.
GUARANTEED MARGINS WITH OUR UNIQUE MARGIN SUPPORT SERVICES
In association with
HASSLE FREE WARRANTY SERVICES GENERAL WARRANTY
TECHNICAL WARRANTY
PRICE MATCHING & FREE DELIVERY b2b.fisheroutdoor.co.uk
2PURE 46c Bavelaw Road, Balerno, Edinburgh, EH147AE Tel: 0844 811 2001 | Web: www.2pure.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
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
PITBITZ LTD Unit 6 Thorpe Drive, Thorpe Way Industrial Estate, Banbury, Oxon, OX16 4UZ Tel: 01295 269333 | www.gazeboshop.co.uk www.thebikeboxcompany.co.uk
I-RIDE 7-8B Mid Sussex Business Park, Ditchling Common Industrial Estate, Folders Lane East, Ditchling, Sussex, BN6 8SE Tel: 01444 243000 | 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 www.santacruzbikes.co.uk
CONTINENTAL North Parade, Aberystwyth, Ceredigion, Wales, SY23 2JR Tel: 01970 626777 | Web: www.conti-tyres.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 CYCLEMILES 9 Queen Anne’s Drive, Havant, PO93PG Tel: 02392 455 355 | Web: www.cyclemiles.co.uk MAXXIS TYRES Unit 3 Cobalt Centre, Siskin Parkway East, Middlemarch Business Park, Coventry, CV34PE Tel: 024 7688 9775 | Web: www.maxxis.com DYNAMO COVER Drake House, Plymouth Road, Penarth, CF64 3TP Tel: 0333 358 33 20 | Web: www.dynamocover.com
EBCO 5 Pegasus House, Olympus Ave, Warwick, CV34 6LW Tel: +01926 437700 | Web: www.ebco-ebikes.co.uk
EDCO COMPONENTS North Parade, Aberystwyth, Wales, SY23 2JR Tel: 01970 626777 | Web: www.edco-wheels.co.uk
FISHER OUTDOOR LEISURE LIMITED 8/9 Brick Knoll Park, Ashley Road, St Albans, Herts, AL1 5UG Tel: 01727 798345 | Web: www.fisheroutdoor.co.uk
MDI LIMITED Unit 4, Wellington Point, Amy Johnson Way, Blackpool Business Park, Blackpool, FY42RG Tel: 01253 343090 | Web: www.mdib2b.co.uk
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
If you’d like to find out more or require additional copies please contact rsetters@nbmedia.com or call him on 020 7354 6000
MOORE LARGE AND CO LTD Sinfin Lane Industrial Estate, Sinfin Lane, Derby, DE24 9GL Tel: 01332 274252 | Web: www.moorelarge.co.uk
NORTH SPORTS 38 Kingston Avenue, Neilston, Glasgow, East Renfrewshire, G783JG Tel: 07746 933795 | Web: www.northsports.co.uk
PALIGAP LTD Unit 2 Danbury House, Great Western Park, Armstrong Way, Yate, Bristol, BS37 5NG Tel: 01454 313 116 | Web: www.paligapltd.co.uk
RALEIGH UK LTD Church Street, Eastwood, Nottingham, NG16 3HT Tel: 01773 532600 Web: www.raleigh.co.uk | www.cyclelife.com www.diamondback.co.uk
REECE CYCLES PLC 100 Alcester Street, Birmingham, B12 0QB Tel: 0121 622 0180 | Web: www.reececycles.co.uk
RUBENA Unit N & M, Tyburn Trading Estate, Ashfold Farm Raod, Birmingham, West Midlands, B24 9QG Tel: 0800 281413 | Web: www.rubenacycle.co.uk
SCHWALBE TYRES UK LTD Schwalbe Centre, Hortonwood 30, Telford, Shropshire, TF1 7ET Tel: 01952602680 | Web: www.schwalbe.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
The BikeBiz Directory 2016 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
MANUFACTURERS
MARKETING, PR AND CONSULTANCY
MEDIA AND PUBLISHING
ORGANISATIONS, CHARITIES AND ASSOCIATIONS
RETAILERS, WORKSHOPS AND MAIL ORDER
SERVICES AND TRAINING
THE CYCLE DIVISION Unit 27 Gatehouse Enterprise Centre, Albert Street, Lockwood, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD1 3QD Tel: 01484 456137 | Web: www.thecycledivision.com
HARDNUTZ Unit 8 Rocheview off Millhead Way, Purdeys Industrial Estate, Rochford, Essex, SS4 1LB Tel: 01702 530090 | Web: www.hardnutz.com
VELOTECH SERVICES LTD 26-27 Western Road, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 0AH Tel: 0845 475 5339 | Web: www.velotechservices.co.uk
WINDWAVE Unit D2 and D3 Heritage Business Park, Heritage Way, Gosport, Hampshire, PO12 4BG Tel: 02392 521912 | Web: www.windwave.co.uk
MAVIC Theta Building, Lyon Way, Frimley, Surrey, GU16 7ER Tel: 01276 404870 | Web: www.mavic.com
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
ZYRO LTD Roundhouse Road, Faverdale Industrial Estate, Darlington, DL30UR Tel: 01325 741200 Web: www.zyro.co.uk | www.zyrob2b.co.uk
BIKE SOUP 55a North Wharf Road, London, W2 1LA Tel: 020 7298278 | Web: www.bikesoup.com
THE CYCLE SHOW 58 White Lion Street, Islington, London, N1 9PP Tel: 020 7288 6733 | Web: www.cycleshow.co.uk
ASSOS 57 Farringdon Road, London, EC1M 3JB Tel: 0203 2862225 | Web: www.assos.com
BUFFERA LIMITED Cranbourne House, Cranbourne Road, Potters Bar, Hertfordshire, EN6 3JN Tel: +01920 460754 | Web: www.buffwear.co.uk
MAXXIS TYRES Unit 3 Cobalt Centre, Siskin Parkway East, Middlemarch Business Park, Coventry, CV34PE Tel: 024 7688 9775 | Web: www.maxxis.com
MET HELMETS / BLUEGRASS 22-24 Ely Place, London, EC1N6TE Tel: 0207 1937 496 | Web: www.met-helmets.com
MITAS Tyburn Trading Estate, Ashold Farm Road, Erdington, Birmingham, B24 9QG Tel: 0800 281 413 | Web: www.mitascycle.com
X-BIONIC Trerè Innovation s.r.l. Unipersonale Via Parma, 70 C. 46041 Asola (MN). Italy Tel: +39 0376 718623 | Web: www.x-bionic.com
CYCLING SCOTLAND 24 Blythswood Square, Glasgow, G2 4BG Tel: 0141 229 5350 | Web: www.cyclingscotland.org
insuring the UK’s cycle retailers
CYCLEGUARD INSURANCE Southgate house, Southgate Street, Gloucester, GL1 1UB Tel: 0844 826 2297 | Web: www.cycleguard.co.uk
ONE WAY DISTRIBUTION Tel: 0031 10345 3510 | Web: shop.o-w-d.nl
QUELLA Unit 1 & 2 Breckenwood Road, Fulbourn, Cambridgeshire, CB21 5DQ Tel: 01223 782 039 | Web: www.quellabicycle.com
BikeBiz Directory 2016 is now available to view online at
www.bikebiz.com DARE2B Unit 8-9 Mercury Park, Mercury Way, Urmston, Manchester, M41 7LY Tel: 0844 811 2939 | Web: www.dare2b.com
ROZONE LIMITED Queen Street, Darlaston, Wednesbury, West Midlands. WS10 8JB Tel: 0121 526 8181 | Web: www.rozone.co.uk
DISTRIBUTION AND WHOLESALE
DISTRIBUTION AND WHOLESALE
IMPORTERS, DISTRIBUTORS AND WHOLESALERS
IMPORTERS, DISTRIBUTORS AND WHOLESALERS
2WT Ltd 63 Baddow Hall Crescent, Chelmsford, CM2 7BX Tel: 07885 788203 Web: www.2wtuk.com
All-City 6400 West 105TH Street, Bloomington, USA, MN 55438 Tel: 1-888-4AC-BIKE Web: www.allcitycycles.com
2x2 Worldwide Unit 6, Hall End Business Park, Dordon, Tamworth, Staffs, B78 1SX Tel: 01827 331099 Web: www.2x2worldwide.com
Always Riding Ltd Riverside Business Centre, Haldone Place, London, SW18 4UQ Web: www.alwaysriding.co.uk
4 Down Distribution Unit 6 North Ridge Business Park, Haywood Way, Hastings, East Sussex, TN35 4PP Tel: 01424 433 074 Web: www.4downdistribution.com
Amba Marketing (UK) Ltd 5 Budlake Units, Budlake Road, Marsh Barton, EX2 8PY Tel: 01392 829903 Web: www.amba-marketing.com
50cycles Unit M, Little Moor Lane, Loughborough, Leicestershire, LE11 1SF Tel: 01509 217775 Web: www.50cycles.com
Andy BrayAgencies T/A Gearmechhanger.com 36 Middlecroft Lane, Gosport, Hampshire, PO12 3DJ Tel: 07896 124968 Web: www.gearmechhanger.com
Assos 57 Farringdon Road, London, EC1M 3JB Tel: 0203 2862225 Web: www.assos.com ATB Sales Ltd Whitworth Road, St Leonards on Sea, East Sussex, TN37 7PZ Tel: 01424 753566 Web: www.atb-sales.co.uk
A Action Cameras The Light Box, PC127, 112 Power Road, London, W4 5PY Tel: 02089657680 Web: www.actioncameras.co.uk
# 2 Wheel Distribution GmbH & Co. KG Erich Blum Str. 33, D 71665 Vaihingen an der Enz, Germany Tel: +49(0)7042289000 Web: www.2wheel-distribution.com
Action Cameras Limited Unit 36 Park Royal Business Centre, 9-17 Park Royal Road, London, NW10 7LQ Tel: 020 89657679 Web: www.actioncameras.co.uk
2 Wheel Electric Haskins Garden Centre, Mansbridge Road, West End, Southampton, Hampshire, SO18 3HW Tel: 02380476929 Web: www.2wheelelectric.co.uk
FREEGO ELECTRIC BIKES 3 St Denys Rd, Southampton SO17 2GN Tel :0800 077 8711
SEE.SENSE (LIMEFORGE LTD) Sketrick House, Jubilee Road, Newtownards, BT23 4YH Tel: 02891 800536 | Web: www.seesense.cc
Active Life Logistics The Barn, Structons Heath Farm, Great Witley, Worcestershire, WR6 6JA Tel: 01299 890101 Web: www.activelifelogistics.co.uk
2pure 46c Bavelaw Road, Balerno, Edinburgh, EH147AE Tel: 0844 811 2001 Web: www.2pure.co.uk
BIKEBIZ DIRECTORY
All Round Wheels (Wholesale) Ltd Unit 020 Gracechurch Centre, Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands, B72 1PH Tel: 0121 354 5451
8
BIKEBIZ.COM
Ansmann UK e-BIKE centre, Unit 12, RO24, Harlow Business Park, Harlow, Essex, CM19 5QB Tel: 0870 609 2233 Web: www.ansmann.co.uk
Atom Cycles Unit 2, Kirkburn Industrial Estate, Lockerbie, DG11 2SE Tel: 01576 203611 Web: www.atomcycles.com
AOB Distribution 57 Exeter Road, Kingsteighton, Newton Abbot, Devon Tel: 07596 100615 Web: www.aobdistribution.com
Autostrada Engineering Forge Farm, Forge Lane, Footherley, Staffs, WS14 0HU Tel: 01543 483155/483225
Assess Todociclismo S.A Mitre 972, San Jose, Guillen Tel: 054-261-4456639
Avocet Sports Ltd Unit 7 and 8 Shield Drive, Wardley Industrial Estate, Worsley, Manchester, M28 2QB Tel: 0161 727 8508 Web: www.coyote-sports.com (B2B) and www.avocetsports.co.uk (Consumer)
Assist Creative Resources Ltd Unit 7 Ash Road South, Wrexham Ind Est, Wrexham, LL13 9UG Tel: 01978 664743 Web: www.assist.co.uk
BIKEBIZ.COM
Axel Imports Ltd 4 Wimborne Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 2BU Tel: 01202 785864 Web: www.axelimports.co.uk
9
BIKEBIZ DIRECTORY
WHOLESALE CYCLE PARTS AND ACCESSORIES BUSINESS MACKADAM FACTORS (1994) LTD IS A VERY WELL ESTABLISHED WHOLESALE BUSINESS THAT SUPPLIES RETAIL OUTLETS WITH BICYCLE SPARES AND ACCESSORIES The business has a very healthy client base of more than 100 customers and operates a delivery service for businesses in the area and a courier service for businesses that are further afield.
The business prides itself on customer service and most of the orders are taken over the telephone from clients and with regular calls from the directors with whom they have a long standing relationship.
THE PURCHASE INCLUDES: STOCK, MONEY IN BANK AND DEBTORS
The business only supply’s to the trade to protect the business relationship with their clients.The area that the business covers Wales,the border counties and the south and west of England. The business can demonstrate a healthy profit margin and shows a strong net profit.
PRICE
£600,000
The business is run by three directors who now wish to retire,they are the fourth owners with over 100 years service between them.They wish the business to continue past the centenary,the business was first established in 1919.
THE BUSINESS IS BASED IN SOUTH WALES BUT CAN BE RELOCATED IF REQUIRED
Any enquires please contact: Arrow Business Sales | 80 Windsor Village | Port Talbot | SA12 7EY Tel: 0333 1234311 | Email: enquires@arrowproperty.co.uk
Sponsored by
COMMUNITY
BikeBiz is keen to publish your opinions, whether you send them via email, Facebook, Twitter, BikeBiz.com or post…
“And another thing...” We received plenty of comments for our Retail Survey 2015 that we couldn’t squeeze into our feature (page 31), so without further ado…
…ON ONLINE
…ON COMPETITION
“Certain online retailers taking a bath outside the UK have brought intense price competition back to the UK and the adoption of price tracking software means we are all getting hammered with online prices hitting the High Street.”
“We are continually investing in our business, it is getting tougher year-onyear. I do believe, and it has been said before, that there are too many brands, too many suppliers, too may retailers competing for the same customer. We all also need to be concentrating on trying to at least retain a sensible margin on the products we sell.”
“Online offer very little to consumers except on price and consumers think that IBDs can and should match the numbers. The RRPs are viewed as bullshit numbers, will it become like DFS? ‘Hurry offer ends this weekend’ and then starts again on Monday.”
…ON MARGINS “Profits have not been not great in general for about four years and in particular in comparison to turnover. Margins are reducing every year and we need to work harder/more hours to generate more turnover for a static and below acceptable profit.” “Distributers and retailers must change and work on much lower margins to compete.” “My bike hire business subsidises my retail business which needs to specialise but we have not yet determined which direction to point our retail offering towards. Middle market sub-£500 does not seem to be working as the internet is too strong. We sell 50 per cent of our annual bike stock at a decent margin but the rest is somewhere between trade and 25 per cent which isn’t sustainable.”
…ON TRADING IN 2016 “You will have to be up for it and active.” “I’m confident on 2016 trading mainly because of the investment that I have made in new brands and in stock as well as a new website.” “It’s going to be hard, we will be squeezing out every last penny of our budgets but we will survive another year!”
STAR COMMENT This month the lucky winner will receive a Commuter X4 personal illumination system…
@bikebizonline “Shift! Shift! Shift! Global cycling shift ‘could save cities $25 trillion and 10% of co2. tinyurl.com/globalcycleshift” Gary Fisher (@Gary_Fisher) “BikeBiz gets all the top stories first... Nude cyclist wins motoring PR award tinyurl.com/nudecyclist” Edmund King (@AAPresident)
“Potential huge job losses scheduled for 2016 in my already depressed area may lead to extremely hungry times for all retail locally.”
“You’re a star CTC! CTC and Mayor’s office to meet Eurostar over bike policy tinyurl.com/ctceurostar” Cycle touring ideas (@seeformiles1)
“I think the next 12 months will be the death of a lot of shops – good and bad. And those who can adapt will always survive.”
“Not only in #China: Brazen #counterfeiting of @Mavic #wheels stopped by court in #Poland tinyurl.com/maviccourtcase” Laurens van Rooijen (@bikejourno)
“I’m confident on trading in 2016 only because we will be diversifying drastically and making severe cut backs in a lot of areas.”
“BOOOOO! Voters in Basel overwhelmingly reject active-travel plan tinyurl.com/baselreject.” Dominic Sweeting (@DominicSweeting)
“This has been the feeling for quite a few years now but we are still here, trying to focus on positives and hanging in there...just!”
“Talking e-bikes with @JonHarker: “If the police came I’d just pull my dongle out...”.” Marksuttonbike (@marksuttonbike)
MARKETPLACE BIKES & ACCESSORIES
WORKSTANDS Respected by pro-teams and enthusiasts - Feedback Sports engineer market leading bicycle workstands.
TO ADVERTISE IN THESE PAGES PLEASE CONTACT RSETTERS@NBMEDIA.COM OR CALL 01992 535647
BIKES & ACCESSORIES
PRO-ELITE WORKSTAND
AS USED BY
road.cc
VELO HINGE
Over 37,000 sold in the UK
STORAGE Support solutions for every type of bike, at home or in-store. RAKK & FATT RAKK VELO WALL RACK 2D
DISTRIBUTED IN THE UK BY 2PURE/
BIKES & ACCESSORIES
78 BIKEBIZ DECEMBER
BIKES & ACCESSORIES
BIKEBIZ.COM
MARKETPLACE BIKES & ACCESSORIES
BIKES & ACCESSORIES
FREE SHIPPING
on all parts via www.madisonb2b.co.uk
Hangers, BB solutions, Bearing presses, Sealed bearings and Workshop solutions 6USPUL OHUNLY Ä UKLY! www.wheelsmfg.co.uk
BIKES & ACCESSORIES
BIKEBIZ.COM
BIKES & ACCESSORIES
BIKEBIZ DECEMBER 79
MARKETPLACE
TO ADVERTISE IN THESE PAGES PLEASE CONTACT RSETTERS@NBMEDIA.COM OR CALL 01992 535647
BIKES & ACCESSORIES
BIKE BOTTLES & PROMOTIONAL GOODS
CUSTOM CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES
DEALER MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS
CUSTOM CLOTHING
CUSTOM BOTTLES
CUSTOM SOCKS
CUSTOM CAPS
CUSTOM MUSETTES
CUSTOM PHONEPACS
Wildoo is the only UK based supplier that can offer a full range of quality custom cycling products.
www.wildoo.co.uk info@wildoo.co.uk 01908 374555 80 BIKEBIZ DECEMBER
As worn by Team Mule Bar Girl – Sigma Sport
BIKEBIZ.COM
MARKETPLACE
BIKEBIZ.COM
COMPONENTS
COMPONENTS
EPOS & ECOMMERCE
GIFT VOUCHERS, TROPHIES & GENERAL PRINT
BIKEBIZ DECEMBER 81
MARKETPLACE
TO ADVERTISE IN THESE PAGES PLEASE CONTACT RSETTERS@NBMEDIA.COM OR CALL 01992 535647
RACKS
TYRES & TUBES
Made in Europe, the Mitas by Rubena range of all-weather MTB tyres are built for fast, demanding and extreme terrain. Available in racing, sport, enduro, radical and tubeless constructions, these tyres are will keep you rolling, whilst providing plenty of grip when required.
CHARYBDIS
HIGHLANDER
KRATOS
SCYLLA
ZEFYROS
For dealer opportunities and pricing information, call the UK Trade Distributor Bike Tyrestore on Freephone 0800 281 413 or email sales@biketyrestore.com www.mitascycle.co.uk www.rubenacycle.co.uk
WEBSITE SERVICES
82 BIKEBIZ DECEMBER
WEBSITE SERVICES
BIKEBIZ.COM
OFF TRACK
OFF TRACK
THE TRADE’S ROUND UP OF STATS, VIEWS AND RANDOMS
NUMBER CRUNCHING We scour COLIBI’s bike statistics from 14 European countries to provide some insight into the current state of the UK cycle market…
80%
2ND
Ever wondered why the UK market is so attractive (and competitive)? It might have something to do with the fact it has an 18 per cent share of the European bike market, behind only Germany (in terms of units).
Road cycling is the dominant form of the sport with over 80% of cyclists taking to the asphalt.
3pri.ce4of2the 5 2 £ That’s the
18TH
Perhaps quizzically, despite having the second biggest bike market in Europe, the UK is only the 18th largest producer of bicycles in Europe.
4 0%
les out multip Worr ied ab ing rd o cc A ? il reta st and online li a ats, speci er to COLIBI st p 0 4 r ccount fo retailers a y b s le sa e cent of cycl e UK . value in th
BIKEBIZ.COM
UK ycle in the average bic Europe is the ading (€345). Le ge bike nds (avera a rl e Neth any then Germ £596) and VAT s e d u at incl (£373). Th data. and e-bike
TENTH
The UK is the tenth largest producer of cycle P&A in Europe, which is equivalent to a two per cent share, or £24m.
BIKEBIZ DECEMBER 83
OFF TRACK
IN THE SADDLE I N
A S S O C I AT I O N
W I T H
B R O O K S
RIPLEY CX LAUNCHES WOMEN’S RACE RIPLEY CASTLE Cyclocross will celebrate its third year with the launch of a new standalone women’s race at the New Year’s Day event. The main sponsor will once again be Bradford and Wetherby-based bicycle retailer All Terrain Cycles, which has also helped to promote the sport to women by supporting one of the region’s only all-female cycling clubs Yorkshire Lass Cycling Club. 2015 saw 523 competitors take part in Ripley Cyclocross, watched by more than 1,000 spectators. www.ripleycastlecx.org.uk
John Owen, Vee Tire Co What bikes do you own and where do you ride them? I’m a jack of all rides really. This year I’ve been fortunate to have great support from Upgrade Bikes and my Pivot Mach6 took me to second overall Elite in the UKGE, but next year is the start of something new for me that I can’t say too much about, yet. Living in Shropshire, I’ve got some insane riding spots locally and if I’m not getting sideways on one of our many slick hills, I’ll likely be cruising the lanes. I’m a sucker for fitness and just love going fast. Tell us about your background in the cycling business: Since a young lad I’ve always had involvement in the bike business. Working in a successful Shrewsbury cycle shop from the age of 13 until 23 really opened my eyes, not only to industry developments over that time, but has also given me so much more experience on a business level too. After leaving to seek a new venture, I wound up working for a marketing firm, which led me to VeeTireCo. It’s a really cool feeling to have established myself in the industry at a young age and I feel honoured to be given so much respect already. And what does your current role with Vee entail? I’ve been involved with all sorts over my ten months with VeeTireCo. However, my primary role is to build recognition and consumer confidence in the brand and day to day I can be found placing and taking orders, coordinating advertisements and generally doing my best to keep the wheels rolling. Building a brand is no easy feat, but we’re getting there and have a super committed customer base. The label is looking to expand in the UK...? Despite VeeTireCo being perhaps under recognised, they’ve produced some award-winning product for other brands and are first to the table with the latest tech and size options. You want plus, fat, thin, BMX, we’ve got it! Naturally, we’re looking to continue expansion of our IBD network, by way of offering appealing margins and staying away from internet giants. Being a small outfit does have its perks and we work very personally with each dealer to best meet their demands. To get in touch call 01952 684168 or via john@veetireco.uk
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THE BREWING CYCLE MEANTIME BREWING Company is working with Brompton to launch its ‘Make Time for It’ campaign (time being a key ‘ingredient’ in Meantime’s brewing process). The brewer created a unique beer to reflect the bike brand while Brompton will return the favour by building a city bike that sums up the spirit of the brewer. Covent Garden’s Brompton Junction will host an event at the start of this month to celebrate the partnership. Meanwhile, in other booze-based bike news, Purity Brewing Company’s cycling-inspired seasonal beer Saddle Black is back and the brewery has cycle jerseys to celebrate all things cycling available via its website. www.meantimebrewing.com
RELIEF FOR CYCLISTS THE SPORT Relief Games are back, running Friday March 18th to 20th. Of course there will be plenty of cycle charity-based opportunities around the events, including flagship events at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in London. www.sportrelief.com
TEAMS LINE UP LAZER IT’S SPONSORSHIP announcement season and Lazer has been busy sealing deals with a wide variety of teams for 2016 including Lotto Soudal, Madison Genesis (of course), Wiggle Honda Optum Professional Team, the Podium Ambition Team and the Ale Cipollini Women’s Team. You can expect to see the Z1 helmet worn by many of those, while the Wasp Air Helmet will feature too. More details at www.lazersport.co.uk
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OFF TRACK
Daniel Gillborn, Director
TR ADNET ACCOU
’S INSIGHT CYCLE TRADER
A MATURING MARKET WE NEED to take cycle to work beyond the early adopters and early majority, and now to the late majority. The late majority are the biggest group over the lifetime of a product, and tend to adopt products where they see everyone else doing it. They join in perhaps because their colleague or relative has bought a shiny new bike from your store or taken part in Cycle to Work Day. As the market matures, ease of access, choice and affordability will become more important to the cycle to work marketplace. It is also harder to continue innovating in a mature market. There is simply less space for innovation when working with ageing legislation. 2015 has still been a positive year, but far more challenging. This is why as the leading provider of cycle to work in the UK, Cyclescheme has
invested three times the usual amount in product development for the last three years to maintain our position as a market leader. It gives you a feel for how difficult it is have the same impact in a maturing marketplace. We still work in an ever-changing, dynamic marketplace, however. Thousands of employers sign up to cycle to work every year, including many household names still to avail of the scheme. The mission for 2016 is how to continue to provide the best user experience, to ensure we get as many participants into your stores as possible and onto cycle to work bikes. We need to find different ways to get new audiences on bikes, increase the inclusion of women – there’s more women than men in the UK – and overcome the barriers to entry such as safety.
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
“This proves how a successful, well-run campaign can be a massive force for good and make things happen.” Paul Tuohy, CTC chief executive, on Eurostar’s U-turn on forcing customers to disassemble bikes and box them up before boarding.
Sponsored by the brands of Moore Large 01332 274252
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Andy Easterbrook, Wildoo WHEN DID YOU SET UP WILDOO? Wildoo started in 2002. HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED IN THE INDUSTRY? Too long! I can’t say but feel I have already earnt my long service medal. WHAT’S THE BEST THING ABOUT WORKING IN THE INDUSTRY? Being able to make a living from something that I have a passion for. WHAT ARE THE BEST AND WORST PARTS OF YOUR JOB? The best part for sure is seeing the products we have developed and sold out there and being used. Worst part is simply that I don’t get to cycle enough! WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON AT THE MOMENT? We have improved & restructured our custom clothing range for 2016 so it’s the best yet. Added to that we have been developing our VeloPac brand from a single product (PhonePac) to a range of products to include a Musette and RidePac. We have also committed to British production for these items. HOW CAN THE TRADE GET IN TOUCH? Our products can be seen via our websites www.wildoo.co.uk and www.velopac.cc. We also have a presence on Facebook and Twitter. Being based in Milton Keynes means it’s very easy for customers to drop in and visit us! Tel: +44 (0)1908 374555 Mobile: +44 (0)7780 993814
BIKEBIZ DECEMBER 85
LAST WORD
Greenest-government-never back pedals on its “cycling revolution” Carlton Reid has little faith that gilded Gideon will get ever serious about cycling. WE’RE LIVING in an age of faux austerity – fausterity, if you will. We’re not “all in it together”. Bankers get bail-outs; steel-workers don’t. £167 billion is to be wasted on replacing Trident but Treasury penny-pinchers earlier forced the closure of historic army regiments. The Tory government has shackled us to an eye-wateringly uneconomic nuclear-power deal with the Communist Party of China yet has pulled the plug from eco-friendly solar- and wind-generation. All of this is done to supposedly balance the books so we “live within our means” but political pet projects – such as High Speed 2 – are allowed to write their own cheques. Measures that would curb carbon emissions and help save the planet are labelled as “green crap” by Prime Minister David Cameron. The deficit reduction plan is meant to provide stability and security for “Britain’s hard-working families” but it took the House of Lords to point out how hard-working families would be far worse off if the tax-credit cuts were actioned. By the time this column is published Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne’s 2015 Spending Review will have been announced. Back in July the Treasury stated that this review would “identify the further savings required to eliminate the deficit.” Government departments – except for education and health – were tasked with slashing their own budgets to the tune of £20 billion. This is £5 billion more than is to be spent on the government’s “Road investment strategy”. That’s right – in this age of fausterity
“It’s time to get serious about cycling but I don’t think Osborne views cycling as anything other than an irrelevance. Bigger fool him.”
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86 BIKEBIZ DECEMBER
we can still apparently afford congestion-busting schemes that will, with scientific certainty, lead to more congestion. The once discredited “predict and provide” model of road building is back with a vengeance. While commentators thrash and cry over the wanton and criminal destruction by Islamic State of Roman temples in Palmyra, the digging of a road tunnel within the sacred landscape of Stonehenge in Wiltshire raises hardly a murmur. A strategy document said the government wanted to “revolutionise our roads” but the revolution is, in truth, more of the same. More tarmac, and less space for cyclists. Slow moving vehicles – such as tractors and bicycles – will be banned from many A-roads despite the fact many A-roads are sometimes the only roads available between towns. The Times, quoting a source close to the spending review, reported that Osborne would protect the £15 billion road
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building plans but would provide nothing for walking or cycling. Even though investing in cycling has a payback of 30-to-1 – far in advance of the cost-to-benefit ratios for road- or rail-building – cycling was “off the agenda”, complained The Times. In theory, the government has a walking and cycling strategy – it was introduced as an amendment to the Infrastructure Act earlier this year, but without significant amounts of cash it’s all just hot air. Gamely, British Cycling told the Treasury that some of Britain’s biggest businesses, including GSK, Virgin Trains, Orange and the National Grid, want to see more investment in cycling. Sustrans and CTC joined with these companies and British Cycling to deliver a pre-spending-review open letter spelling out the strong economic case for investing in active travel. You’ll know better than me whether this intervention persuaded Osborne to stump up cash for cycling but, sitting here two weeks before the announcement, I’m not optimistic, as you might have perhaps noticed. It’s entirely possible that the “source close to the spending review” sold The Times a dummy, with Osborne always planning to float some cash but, with deft misdirection, making us fret there would be none. Any cash at all would then be seen as a “victory”. Thing is, if it’s not billions, it’ll have little to no impact anyway. It’s time to get serious about cycling but I don’t think Osborne views cycling as anything other than an irrelevance. Bigger fool him.
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This environment, this trail and this ride have contained all of the ingredients— countless tiny details that have created the perfect day. It is a feeling that will keep us returning for years to come.
ALL FOR ONE
The SRAM 1x ™ drivetrain that launched an XC World Championship, XX1 was built to be simpler, lighter and more durable than any other. Calibrated to work together, SRAM XX1 components deliver remarkable chain control and rapid, high-precision shifting. Which gives serious riders exactly the edge they need. UNSTOPPABLE.
SRAM.COM