Issue 66 | July 2011

Issue 66 | July 2011
EDITORIAL
Issue 66 | July 2011
NEWS 4-6
CHAIN REACTION 12
Big changes at Storck Raddar as the firm eyes growth,
while Pure Distribution starts up with the Answer brand...
RED OR DEAD LAUNCH 26
EVENTS 66
BICYCLE ASSOCIATION AGM
19
Jonathon Harker reports on the changes
at the top of the Bicycle Association
and its projected future course...
“Modest loans to small businesses can
often be crucial and can be the
proverbial acorn from which the
mighty oaks are grown...”
FOCUS ON…
22 BIKE HUB
BikeBiz recounts the past, present and
documents a little of the levy’s future plans
16 ZYRO SPOTLIGHT
14 MYSTERY SHOPPER
BikeBiz Award winning distributor Zyro is
profiled on page 16
Our man of mystery tours Ashford in Kent
and discovers that nobody’s home...
2 PURE COMPETITION
Get your hands on all the latest Crank Brothers awesomeness
in this competition, including the new season Cobalt wheels...
CHARGE LAUNCH 2012
ICEBIKE IN FOCUS
24
29
REGULARS
DEALER PROFILE
46 LETTERS
Red Planet Bikes of Swindon discusses its faith
in UK brands, bike fitting and more...
PEOPLE
42
New shop hopeful writes to BikeBiz with
questions on turnover – can you help?
64
SPONSORED BY
Katrin Engel returns to the bike business thanks
to her appointment by Endura
NEW PRODUCTS
54
Find out what’s new, which firms import the
product and when it’s available over on page 54
WHO’D BE a banker? These days they
are numbered among the least
favourite professionals, next to estate
agents and, ahem, journalists. The tax
payer bail-out of several banks at the
height of the recent economic crisis
has much to do with that, as do those
hard-to-imagine big bonuses.
But most recently banks have been
under the spotlight over their promise
to lend more to small businesses. Four banks signed up to
the agreement – the quizzically named Project Merlin –
committing them to lend more money in 2011.
Last month they were judged on their pledge and it was
revealed that they missed out on hitting their target of
lending at least £19 billion to small and medium enterprises
(instead lending £16.8 billion).
The bad news was compounded with reports that the
cost of credit is rising, furthering the financial woes of those
requiring loans, overdrafts and the like.
SPOKESMAN
78
Carlton Reid suggests kids will become adults
before UK infrastructure is perfect for cycling...
In a trade full of small and medium businesses, the bike
industry will certainly be feeling the effects of this. While it
is hard to judge to what degree that is the case, it’s worth
remembering that modest loans to small businesses can
often be crucial and can even sometimes be the proverbial
acorn from which mighty oaks are grown.
One such ‘oak’ is Chain Reaction Cycles. Celebrating its
25th year in business, the firm is one of the biggest cycle
retailers in the cycle industry globally.
But back in 1984, when it was setting up shop in
Ballynure, Northern Ireland, it was with a £1,500 bank loan
that the firm established itself. And from that ‘acorn’ the
firm went from strength-to-strength to become the huge
company it is today, with over 300 members in the CRC
‘family’.
With credit for small businesses often a crucial factor in
success, news of rising lending costs and missed load targets
have an impact, probably largely unseen and unreported,
but an impact nonetheless.
Is the next Chain Reaction being given chance to get
started by the banks? Do you know of any burgeoning bike
businesses struggling to get affordable credit? I’m extremely
keen to know, so let us know in the usual places. I’m
contactable on jonathon.harker@intentmedia.co.uk
Jonathon Harker, Editor
NEWS
CYCLE
SHORTS
Bike shop for sale
A North London-based busy
bike shop is for sale. On the
doorstop of a Cycle
Superhighway, the shop has
been established for over 20
years and has an excellent
loyal customer base. The shop
front has recently been
refitted with over 12k of
work including a new shutter,
sign and more. Contact
pw.jenkins@btopenworld.com
for more details.
Marwi contacts
Marwi’s product range,
including the disc brake pad
featured in last month’s
BikeBiz, is available via three
distributors: The Cycle
Division Ltd (0845 0508500),
Reece Cycles (0121 622
0180) and
Coyote Sports (0161 727
8508). You can find out more
about Marwi’s wide product
range at www.marwi-eu.com.
Storck Raddar UK
on the move
New website launch with secure online trading functions
goes live 1,500 square foot facility overlooking the River
Tyne is the firm’s new home
by Mark Sutton
STORCK RADDAR UK has moved
into a new, larger office space in
Gateshead, Tyne and wear.
The new 1,500 square foot
office is a modern contemporary
suite overlooking the river Tyne
with latest Storck Raddar pedelec
bikes and Storck Hybrid bikes
displayed on the first floor open
plan showroom with open
pitched roof. On the ground floor
is an accommodating reception
area with sofa, coffee tables and
‘hang out area’, plus high tech
workshop for dealer staff training
and custom bike building.
Ian Hughes, Storck
Raddar UK
Halfords make
steady financial
progress
Preliminary results for the
year to April 1st show that
Halfords has raised its group
revenue by 4.6 per cent,
while adding value to shares.
Little mention of cycling was
made in the report, which
focused largely on the
expanding autocentres
business.
Hertz begins renting
out E-bikes
Rentals firm Hertz has begun
loaning out a fleet of Ultra
Motor electric bikes from its
Marble Arch branch. At £20
for a full day’s hire, this
undercuts the Barclays Cycle
Hire by a whopping £30.
Specialized follows
Trek’s lead in carbon
recycling
Specialized has joined the
few bike brands offering to
recycle carbon, encouraging
other brands to commit to
doing the same. Bryant
Bainbridge, formerly involved
with Nike’s eco-efforts has
been hired to oversee the
efforts.
For breaking news visit:
www.bikebiz.com
4 BIKEBIZ JULY
“Even Markus
and Helena
Storck got in our
our photoshoot
to populate the
new site...”
SiS reveals sales boosting POS
New packaging revamp simplifies nutrition messages and
explains most efficient use of product lines
by Jonathon Harker
SCIENCE IN SPORT has launched
a number of initiatives to boost
the brand’s retail sales, including
new packaging, POS, and giveaway DVDs featuring cycle stars.
SiS’ educational DVDs –
including ‘Full gas with Fabian
Cancellara’ have been given away
with 50,000 magazines, designed
to cement the brand’s credibility
and emphasise it’s endorsement
by riders in the pro tour races.
GO Electrolyte Green Tea and
Lemon, Smart 1 Drink and
Blueberry and Redberry GO Bars
have recently joined the SiS
2011 range of GO electrolyte,
GO Gels and REGO recovery
products.
The brand, designed and
manufactured in Lancashire, said
it was committed to keeping
cycling at its heart, with SiS’ own
sales representatives on hand for
pull through and sales support
activities.
“Science in Sport
has worked
closely with our
team, ensuring we
can sell with
confidence...”
Neil Manning, Condor
Condor Cycles is one of the
firms currently working closely
with SiS. Condor Production
director Neil Manning said:
“Condor Cycles have always
looked for the best available
products on the market for its
customers. When Science in
Sport introduced the original
PSP22 powders, we were proud
to be the first SiS retailer. Since
that day SiS has remained our
number one energy brand,
despite so many having
competition from other players
in the market-including many
body building brands.
“Science in Sport works
closely with independent
retailers, like Condor, and offers
good training support on new
products so our sales team can
sell the products with
confidence.”
SiS product is available to the
trade through Madison, Bob
Elliot and Moore Large.
Bob Elliot: 01772 459887
Madison: 0870 034 7226
Moore Large: 01332 274252
BIKEBIZ.COM
NEWS
To coincide with this move, the
firm has also launched its new
website, which has been designed
by Ian and Trevor Hughes and
built by local web architects
Boxmodel. Working alongside pro
snapper Paul Smith, the firm has
put together a fresh-looking
website with stunning imagery
for its bike catalogue.
Ian Hughes, MD at Storck
Raddar, told BikeBiz: “I’m really
happy with the images Paul has
created from
the initial brief.
Even Markus and Helena Storck
got in on the photo shoot with
great results. Trevor has brought
valuable communication skills
from his previous job at Orange
telecom to help develop a Storck
Raddar community."
Storck Raddar UK’s new
address is Storck Raddar UK Ltd.
10 Keel Row, The Watermark,
Gateshead, Tyne and Wear. NE11
9SZ. The telephone line is 0191
493 2654
Scammers target both
retail and distribution
Bold, have-a-go thieves place order assuming retail details,
before attempting delivery interception or pick-up
by Mark Sutton
Science in Sport
wants customers
to be left in no
doubt of the
purpose of each
nutrition product
AS REPORTED on BikeBiz.com
during June, a cunning group of
scammers has become prolific
in the last month, attempting to
order large hauls of bikes
assuming the details of retailers,
including the likes of chain store
Hargroves Cycles.
Since our report it has
emerged that Dales Cycles, Split
Second Imports, Merida and
others have received similar
false orders. Luckily due to the
nature of the scam, BikeBiz has
yet to receive report of
anything other than “very close
calls.”
Allan Doyle of Dales Cyles
said BikeBiz retailers and
distributors alike should be on
the lookout for suspicious
delivery and pick-up requests.
He said: “We had an incident
through Merida where someone
claiming to be us tried to order
a significant number of bikes
from them. This order got
“Somebody called
Merida, claiming
to be our store
with a significant
order...”
Allan Doyle,
Dales Cycles
perilously close to dispatch
before it was picked up by all
parties concerned.”
Doyle explained that the
scam, also reported to have
affected Saddleback, Dawes and
Falcon Cycles, works by the
fraudster assuming a shop
manager’s name, often found on
websites and placing false
orders “to be picked up in
person, because of urgency
issues”.
Dan Haynes of Split Second
Imports confirmed that the
distribution business had also
smelled a rat using similar
tactics.
“Although it was a while ago,
I can confirm that Split Second
were targeted by a fraudster in
a very similar way described in
your online story. Purporting to
be from one of our large online
BMX retailers, the man was
looking to place a large bike
order and collect in person as
‘he had a van in the area
tomorrow’. We knew it sounded
suspicious as it was from a
mobile.”
If you have a similar warning
to share with others, email
mark.sutton@intentmedia.co.uk
NEWS
Pure Distribution opens for business
Own-brand framesets and Answer goods the first to find a home under Pure Distribution label Owner Rich Townsend pushing brand on race circuit with sponsored riders in BMX and road
“Pure should end up
having a high-end offer
for each race sector...”
Pure’s race BMX frame with
Answer Dagger fork
by Mark Sutton
PROFESSIONAL BMX racer Rich
Townsend has set up a new distribution
business carrying both Answer racing
products and own-branded Pure Bicycle
Co. framesets.
Townsend's UK designed, Italian-built
Pure framesets span a number of sectors,
from road, race BMX, four-cross, through
time trial and more.
Making use of tried and tested
Dedacciai tubing throughout the line,
Townsend told BikeBiz that Pure aspires
to "have a high quality product in each
race sector, designed and tailored to the
racer who will only run the very best
products on the market."
It's not just super high-end gear
available via Pure though. The 7000 series
aluminium road frame and fork package is
a highlight, costing just £499 at retail.
Availability for most of the Pure line is
expected to be mid July, though pre
orders are being accepted at present.
Titanium frames are expected shortly too,
though Pure asks that enquiries for these
be made on an individual basis at present.
Answer, one of the larger brands on the
BMX race scene, has a key product in this
season's catalogue in the form of the
'Dagger' fork, described by Townsend as
"one of the big three in the market and
the most high-end of those choices." At
£259, the Expert fork comprises high-
density 4k woven carbon legs and a 7075
steerer tube.
Kid's pro-level race goods will also be
imported via Pure, which has a variety of
handlebar's within its catalogue, most
notably the Mini and Expert Carbon at
£80 and £110 retail price, respectively.
The distributor has made bold moves
in pushing the brand name on the race
circuit, with 11 professional riders riding
Pure's BMX product on the track, while
Ria Goodwin, the 17 to 24 ladies world
champion will be competing this season
aboard Pure RS and TT builds.
Pure Bicycle Company is contactable
on 01582 882919, or via email on
purebikeco@hotmail.com.
Clarks opens dedicated UK service centre
by Mark Sutton
DUE TO the growing demand for its disc
brakes at both OEM and aftermarket,
Clarks Cycle Systems has opened a UK
service centre.
With products such as the Skeletal
hydraulic brakes selling well and the
development of the 'Elite' and
components ranges, the
manufacturer is inviting dealers
or consumers with any queries
to get in touch with the UK
based team.
Paul Toon, product designer
at Clarks, told BikeBiz: "We see
this as a vital area for after
sales service and reflects our
commitment to our customers
and products we supply. To
that end we will also offer a
selection of spare parts for
direct purchase, if needed."
6 BIKEBIZ JULY
“We see this as a vital
area of after sales
service...”
Paul Toon, Clarks
BIKEBIZ.COM
W
O
N
R
E
T
S
I
G
E
R
PRE
iceBike* July 2011
iceBike* July is back! Following the popularity of last years July event, we are pleased to announce that
registration is now open for this years show! iceBike* combines all the smaller previously held mid-year, next
season launch events, into one bigger ‘must attend’ event, held at our Milton Keynes distribution centre.
Bikes: The new 2012 ranges from Saracen, Ridgeback, Genesis & the new ‘ready assembled’ Adventure range
Apparel: Spring/Summer 2012 ranges from Pearl Izumi & Madison. New ranges from Shimano, PRO, Giro & Bell.
Parts & Accessories: The must have winter essentials from Blackburn, Electron, Light & Motion, Elite, CycraGuard,
Respro & Hydrapak, as well as a wealth of new products from GoPro, Easton Moutain Products, Shimano, OGIO,
Pacific Outdoor Equipment, Profile Design and many more...
Tuesday 19th July: 9.00am - 5.00pm
Thursday 21st July: 9.00am - 5.00pm
Wednesday 20th July: 9.00am - 5.00pm (mass participation ride all invited)
Friday 22nd July: 9.00am - 5.00pm
extra dates added due to demand
Monday 25th July: 9.00am - 5.00pm
Tuesday 26th July: 9.00am - 5.00pm
for more information and to register visit
www.icebike.co.uk
Are proud to announce the
launch of their new P&A range!
s IBD exclusive s 70% margins on initial buy in deal
s Core range offering both quality and value
s Buy from a supplier you already know and trust
s Supports and enhances brand awareness
s 0UNCTURERESISTANT-4"
s 0UNCTURERESISTANT2/!$
s 0UNCTURERESISTANT(9"2)$
only £14.99 rrp
s FUNCTIONWIREDCOMPUTER
only £17.99 rrp
s FUNCTIONWIRELESSCOMPUTER
only £22.99 rrp
s (EAVYDUTYCABLELOCK
only £9.99 rrp
s MM!24APPROVED
shacklelock
only £24.99 rrp
Good stocks
available and easy
to order on our
New B2B site!
For more details call
Melanie Bailey on
01652 656000 EXT 699 or
melanie.bailey@falconcycles.co.uk
Falcon Cycles Division
PO Box 3 Bridge Street, Brigg, North Lincolnshire, DN20 8PB
BIKEBIZ AWARD WINNERS | ZYRO
Winning ways
With this year’s BikeBiz Awards now announced for
September, we continue to speak to last year’s winners.
Jonathon Harker tracks down Zyro’s co-founder Simon
Ellison and marketing manager Jane Watson...
How does it feel to have another BikeBiz
Award in the trophy cabinet?
SE: We are extremely proud of our
achievements and our team. It is true
recognition of everyone’s hard work. It’s also a
big achievement for a private enterprise to be
recognised like this.
You picked up a number of brands this year,
including Tifosi and Bryton. Any more
signings on the horizon?
SE: Tifosi and Bryton were immediate hits and
Tifosi is now reaching its potential. You expect
some brands to take time to bed in, but these
have been real winners from the off and
complement two key gaps in our prior
portfolio – GPS and sunglasses. We take time
to find the right partners and are certainly not
in the business of adding brands and growth
purely by brand acquisition.
We are always talking to brands, but there
must be a real strategic fit and we must
believe we can make a real difference to any
new brand we partner up with. We work hard
for long-term partnerships, but again we are
certainly not on a mission to add brands for
the sake of adding brands.
Tortec, for instance, is a home-grown brand
and will be a key asset in our firm’s future. Like
Altura, which has grown from strength-tostrength, we will continually invest in these
whilst the growth is there.
How have sales been this year? Last
September Zyro said it would grow sales in
excess of £50m in the next three to four
years. Is that still the target?
SE: Yes, we’re still on track.
Have you seen any trends over the first
quarter of 2011? Any unexpected
products/sectors growing?
SE: GPS and sunglasses have been
fantastic, even more so as new
categories for us. PowerBar
has grown astronomically
once again after its best
ever year in 2010. We
are set for a great Tour
Season and the buying
started early in
January despite the
poor weather and
economic conditions
here in the UK.
Altura has again been
amazing with a best ever
spring/summer sell in too, beating
expectations in certain categories.
It sounds like it’s a bit of a
transition year for Altura
following the rebranding. How is
that going?
SE: This has undoubtedly given us an extra
edge this year and the synergy on and off
product of a more visible identity has made us
even stronger and more recognisable to the
public.
Was there a slowdown in cycle to work last
year after the HMRC recommendation? And
has that now recovered?
SE: Yes. I think everyone will agree in the
industry, but at least we are now seeing signs
of stability, though C2W is unlikely to return to
previous levels any time soon.
Jane Watson and Chris
Davis picked up the
P&A Distributor award
on the night
10 BIKEBIZ JULY
Have there been any recent developments
on the B2B site?
JW: Week-on-week we introduce updates to
the Zyro B2B site and we are seeing our
biggest uplifts with more regular orders being
made via site.
We now email out fortnightly promotion
newsletters to introduce customers who have
Zyro has a trolley
load of brands to
offer cycle retailers
signed up to the latest offers, which
can be sorted on the site via brand,
most recent or type of promotion.
Our business-to-business site also
includes downloadable personalised
price lists, and other account
stationery/documents, as well as quick
order pad processing with CSV
functionality.
Dealers can also use the ‘save and order
again’ function, as well as take advantage
of the ‘email when back in stock’ feature.
The B2B site also has live stock
availability, order history, a new
backorder report, basket reminders and
much more.
What’s next for Zyro? What are the biggest
challenges ahead?
SE: More investment in technology, including ecommerce to further enhance our B2B service
experience, which will enhance our full service
offering, but not to take away from the personal
contact we pride ourselves in from our growing
internal and field sales teams.
We look forward to the buzz around the
Olympics in 2012, but undoubtedly the biggest
challenges we face as a business as a whole will
be maintaining prices, which are constantly
increasing at source as the world economy, raw
materials continue to be affected.
However, we pride ourselves on stability and
will continue to keep costs low to limit impact
on our customers and ultimately the
consumers, our public.
Zyro: 01845 521700
BIKEBIZ.COM
Distribution By Zyro Ltd.
Order via www.zyrob2b.co.uk
or call 01845 521742
CHAIN REACTION | BB386 EVO
EVOlution
FSA believes it’s on to something big with
the creation of the BB386 EVO. Yet many
in the industry question the need for
another bottom bracket standard.
FSA’s Claudio Marra explains why…
Can you tell us how the BB386 EVO came
about?
The idea of BB386 EVO is based on the ground
breaking BB30 system, developed by
Cannondale. The revolution of the 30mm
spindle opened the door for the most
significant improvement in crank design in
many years.
The BB386 EVO design simply modifies the
BB30 design to a wider width, and incorporates
a press fit bearing cup, rather than the direct fit
bearing of the BB30 system. This slight
modification allows the adaptability of the
design to other BB shells, and gives the builder
more options when crafting frames.
The idea was born from a request from two
FSA customers, Wilier and BH. Both proposed a
wider version of BB30, but both requested
different BB lengths (Wilier proposed 86mm
of fit to more
different frames. The BB386 EVO uses
the proven 30mm alloy spindle, which
already is known to reduce weight and
improve stiffness. Mating this to the wider BB
shell, and press fit cups, allows this crankset to
fit not only the 386EVO BB shell, but also to
be adaptable to threaded and BB30 frames.
The crankset is able to keep normal Qfactor, but be adaptable to three different
bottom bracket systems. That will allow this
crankset to have the widest range of
adaptability of any crankset we produce. Thus,
the 386 EVO crankset can eliminate the need
to offer multiple different crank set models for
the different BB standards. FSA will be able to
offer one crankset that will fit all three, and
still be lighter and stiff than our current
MegaExo option.
“As opportunities arise to
improve performance, or
adaptability, we believe
the industry will adopt
them, provided they make
sense...”
and BH 80mm). Both ideas were interesting,
but the 86mm length allowed FSA to make one
crankset that could also be used on threaded
BB shells, thanks to the threaded reducer cups
for 30mm spindles. Wilier and BH agreed to
FSA’s suggestions and developed new frames
based on this concept and at the same time,
FSA created the crank set.
What were the ultimate goals of the new
bottom bracket?
From the perspective of a frame maker, BB386
EVO allows the designer significantly more
area to modify the performance characteristics
of the frame. A standard 68mm BB shell width
allows a down tube or seat tube diameter of
around 63mm as a maximum. The 386 EVO
system allows a much more generous amount
of area, up to around 83mm. This solution can
really increase frame stiffness, and using the
press fit cups allows the frame maker to
eliminate any alloy insert into the BB shell,
resulting in a big weight reduction.
From the component maker’s perspective,
the BB386 EVO system allows more flexibility
12 BIKEBIZ JULY
What do you say to those who believe
another standard for BBs unnecessary?
There have always been many standards of BB
in the market. Those of us old enough will
remember French threading, Swiss threading,
as well as English and Italian. The bike market
follows trends that continue innovation. As
opportunities arise to improve performance, or
adaptability, we believe the industry will adopt
them, provided they make sense.
Claudio Marra
The BB shell is wider, what advantages does
this bring?
The wider BB386 EVO shell allows a much
greater surface area, up to around 80-81mm of
diameter, so the shape of the tubes can be
modified more to achieve the ride performance
they want.
Additionally, other frame components can
also benefit. The wider BB shell allows chain
stays to be optimized, with either a greater
thickness, or a wider spacing to allow greater
stiffness, plus better tire clearance.
One important characteristic of the
BB386 EVO design is that it allows a wide
range of adaptability both for the crankset to
fit other frame standards, and for the frame to
fit other crank standards. The BB386 EVO
frame design allows the use of crank sets with
the 24mm thick integrated spindle by a
number of bearing adapters, which reduce the
30mm bearings to fit the 24mm spindle.
Conversely, the BB386 EVO crank set is
widely adaptable to both threaded
shells, and BB30 frames.
FSA will also offer simple bottom
brackets, and adapters to allow one
crank set to fit all three types of
frames, thus simplifying both the sales
and assembly process.
The BB386 EVO crankset will not only fit all
of these bottom bracket types, but will also
offer greatly improved performance compared
to 24mm integrated systems.
Which manufacturers have become early
adopters of the BB386?
BB386 EVO is already in use by Wilier and BH.
ABG (Litespeed) is also now progressing with
the standard and we expect other brands to
take advantage of this design going forwards.
Why press fit bearings?
The use of the press fit bearing cups allows the
frame designer to eliminate any alloy or steel
component inside the BB shell area, since the
nylon composite cups have a greater range of
fit tolerance. Therefore, the BB shell area can
become lighter, and simpler to make.
Could there be further tweaks to the design
in future?
It is possible that other bike brands will
propose enhancements to the system, and it is
not a surprise. We suppose that in the future
we will see more new standards introduced to
the market.
Could the BB386 branch into territories
beyond road?
It is possible that we will see this BB386 EVO
also on Cyclocross and MTB frames, since the
benefits: weight reduction, stiffness increase
and better clearance between the chain stays,
make sense here also.
Wider width designs, like 386 EVO, will have
to work around interference issues with triple
ring MTB cranks.
BIKEBIZ.COM
MYSTERY SHOPPER | ASHFORD
Is anybody home?
Mystery Shopper’s UK tour
ground to a bit of a halt in
Ashford thanks to shop
closures and missing staff.
Halfords came out top of the
pile and that’s despite four
staff barricading themselves
behind a tiny counter…
Flat Out BMX
Halfords
I'M TOLD Flat Out is a fairly new operation and my
guess is it's yet to receive the majority of its stock. As a
result of virtually empty floor and barely occupied wall
space, Flat Out’s shop seemed larger than it actually was.
At the opposing end of the shop to the entrance was
an assistant who gave me a nod before returning to his
laptop. I browsed for a short while before asking a semitechnical query about a set of pedals requiring an
answer that only a niche store such as this would likely
know. The answer, in all fairness, was well addressed,
though was followed with the strong dismissal of all
plastic pedals as 'rubbish'. Flat Out only had one pair of
metal pedals in stock, the rest were plastic.
Though attentive enough when questions were
posed, it was difficult to draw the assistant's attention
away from the laptop and toward customers. Perhaps I
arrived while he was mid order. Whatever it was on the
screen, he was fascinated.
As I left the store the assistant followed, lit a
cigarette on the doorstep and stood about making it
very hard for paparazzi to snap the
storefront, or for any customers to
SCORE
enter without getting a lungfull.
NEARING FULL marks is perhaps generous for this branch,
for which just one of four staff squeezed behind the
counter was brave enough to assist. As is often the case
in Halfords, the younger staff did their best to avoid
coming from behind the till area, leaving the most senior
of the bunch to help. As expected and experienced
previously, this particular staffer was fantastic.
This assistant couldn't have done much more to sell
me a bike, covering aftercare, warranty, accessory addons, multiple bikes, as well as discussing advanced cycling
and performance gear.
Though I found his technical knowledge a little
unbalanced in places, for the most part advice was solid
and would certainly see the typical Halfords customer
right in their purchase.
Clever point of display is always a bonus and this
branch was innovative in the way it displayed lighting
accessories, offering a try-before-you buy testing station,
among other things.
If I were to have relied on being seen on the shop, as I
typically would in an
independent store, this visit
SCORE
would have gone ungraded.
[ 2/5 ]
14 BIKEBIZ JULY
[ 4/5 ]
BIKEBIZ.COM
MYSTERY SHOPPER | ASHFORD
Sports Direct
GOING IN search of Ashford's town centre 'cyclery'
Mystery Shopper found nothing but a closed store and a
worn sign above to indicate that Ashford no longer has
a central bicycle store.
Venturing into Sports Direct in the hope someone
within may have an inkling of a where the local bike
shop had gone, or whether there was another in town,
an assistant advised that she knew of none, though
asked if she could help. Put on the spot, but intruiged by
someone in Sports Direct uniform openly seeking to
help, I queried whether the store had any jerseys
suitable for cycling.
Being led through to a section of vest tops and
basketball style jerseys I felt as though past dismissals of
the chain as virtually useless at customer service were a
little rough. I was reminded that representation on the
shop floor is very important, as demonstrated earlier in
Halfords by one star employee
surrounded by three others
SCORE
reluctant to do their job.
[ 3/5 ]
Velo Refined
Hamstreet Cycles
DEAR MR VELO REFINED, if you're reading, I'm typing
this on board a ferry to nowhere in particular thanks to
the proceeds from selling your bikes.
Okay, perhaps that's a lie, but the thought had crossed
the mind of Mystery Shopper's evil alter-ego. It would
have been so easy to lift your entire high-end stock,
which I'd estimate to be in the region of 20 to 30
thousand pounds.
Let me set the scene. I enter a quiet industrial unit, no
one's around aside from a lone mechanic from the
neighbouring garage. He's busy playing with a rather nice
Ferrari as I enter your empty showroom.
I spend five minutes inside unaccompanied. Nothing
appears to be locked to the wall fixtures. At the very
least there's a pair of wheels worth a few grand to be
had. Looks like a few unboxed deliveries laying around on
the table too.
In reality, these thoughts didn't even cross Mystery
Shopper's mind and that lone mechanic next door
helpfully advised that you're normally available by
appointment only.
Let us know what time you
SCORE
are (not) around and I'll book in...
NOTING PRIOR to my entry that Hamstreet Cycles was
a type of hardware and cycle shop hybrid, I had to alter
my brief a little, opting out of mentioning the cross
country bike sought elsewhere in favour of a bit of a
quiz on a cheap reconditioned full suspension bike in
the window.
Soon after I'd uttered the words 'built to last' the
assistant gave said window occupying bike a glance
before suggesting that I pop back in a week's time when
he'd taken stock of a few more better specced models.
Advising that any repair work could be carried out in
store, the assistant seemed keen to hold off selling me
just any bike, honestly informing me that the bikes he
had in stock may not last too long on trail excursions.
In terms of representation of a business, the assistant
here was the day’s best, showing attention to detail,
asking the right questions of me and ultimately being a
thoroughly nice chap.
The store did appear poorly presented, both on the
outside and inside. With a lick of paint and a tidy up
inside, the shop would surely have
room for a more focused line of
SCORE
bikes.
[
BIKEBIZ.COM
U
]
[ 3/5 ]
Summary
ASHFORD PROVED to be very difficult to draw
conclusions on with many mitigating factors to take
into account on the majority of visits.
Should I mark down Flat Out for being focused on
his laptop? Perhaps I entered while the assistant was
deep into some accounting. On the other hand, was
he on YouTube and simply not fussed about customers?
How do you mark a store that has no
representation? Operating on an appointment only
basis Velo Refined is as 'high-end' a bicycle business
as they come. Presumably the owner is an expert in his
field, though having found no details of the need to
book on the firm’s home page, are all the basics of
business covered? The home page features a 'now open'
icon. Click the 'about us' tab and it's a different story.
Halfords and Sports Direct demonstrated that one
excellent employee is worth the whole bundle of
average workers.
BIKEBIZ JULY 15
BIKEBIZ | AWARDS
WHERE?
The BikeBiz Awards 2011 will take place at
the Hilton Metropole, NEC on Wednesday
September 28th, the evening before the
Cycle Show starts.
Prize night
With lobbying now open, the build up to September’s 2011 BikeBiz
Awards night hots up, buoyed by Citrus-Lime becoming Event Partner
for this year’s event. Jonathon Harker gives you the facts...
RETAILERS, suppliers and brands from the
Citrus-Lime brings ecommerce, Epos and
bicycle industry are currently furiously lobbying
Stock Control solutions to cycle retailers
for the companies that they believe are most
designed to help dealers run their businesses
deserving of recognition for
more efficiently and
this year’s BikeBiz Awards.
with increased
And with lobbying for the
profitability. Citrustrade prizes now in full
Lime’s Bike Workshop
swing the awards have been
Module includes SMS
backed by integrated EPOS
and email customer
and Ecommerce solution
notifications, among
provider Citrus-Lime.
many other bike sectorThe firm will be Event
specific modules and
Partner for the 2011 BikeBiz
features.
Awards, this year taking part
A regular Core Bike
at the Hilton Metropole,
exhibitor, Citrus-Lime
NEC on Wednesday
has worked with Giant
September 28th.
and Madison among
Citrus-Lime is a longothers, as well as
term supporter of the
delivering Epos for
cycle industry awards,
Chain Reaction Cycles’
having now backed them
new state-of-the-art
for three consecutive
Belfast store.
years. “Citrus-Lime is
The BikeBiz Awards
proud to again support
were first established
the BikeBiz Awards in
in 2008 to honour
2011 and acknowledge
and celebrate the
the successes within the
bicycle trade. Initially
cycle industry on this
launched as an
special occasion.
online-only event,
“We shall see you on
the Awards became
the night and wish the best
a stand-alone event
t
las
g
on
am
re
we
Road.cc
of luck to all nominees.”
in 2010.
ers
nn
year’s award wi
Event Partner
“Citrus-Lime is once
again proud to support
the BikeBiz Awards and
acknowledge the
successes within the
cycle industry.”
16 BIKEBIZ JULY
WHAT?
The categories have been tweaked for 2011.
They include:
Independent Retailer
Online Retailer
High Street Chain
Retail Workshop Distributor: Bikes
Distributor: P&A
Distributor of the Year
Consumer Print Media
(Specialist and National Press)
Consumer Website
Bike Brand
P&A Brand
Rising Star
Retail Marketing Initiative
HOW TO LOBBY?
If you want to tell us why you, a customer
or a supplier should be considered for an
award, simply email
bikeawards@intentmedia.co.uk. All you
need to include is a brief sentence or two
explaining why the company should win an
award.
For more details turn to the ‘How to win
a BikeBiz Award’ article in June’s BikeBiz.
WHO?
Carly Bailey
For more information on sponsorship
opportunities, contact
Carly.Bailey@intentmedia.co.uk.
BIKEBIZ.COM
Event Partner
1
1
0
2
S
D
R
A
AW
Wednesday September 28th
EARLY B
IRD
TICKETS
For more information on trade
tickets and sponsorship opportunities,
please email Carly.Bailey@intentmedia.co.uk
or call 01992 535647
£15
Offer c
l
August oses
31st
REPORT | BA AGM
New challenges
for cycling
The Bicycle Association has a new president and
has beefed up its PR efforts to boost cycling.
Jonathon Harker reports from this year’s AGM…
Philip Taylor
and Mark
Bickerton
MUCH HAS changed over the last 12 months.
While the last annual general meeting of the
Bicycle Association focused on the successes of
the Cycling Towns and Cities programme, and
the positives created by the industry Bike Hub
levy, this year talk inevitably covered the effect
of the end of Cycling England, which officially
closed its doors in March this year.
The end of the quango and its pot of money
dedicated for cycling presents the industry with
Investment in cycling
is said to bring a 3:1
ratio of return to the
economy
new challenges, in the words of outgoing
being adopted locally. The vast majority of bids
Bicycle Association president Philip Taylor:
for the Local Sustainable Transport Fund have a
“Due to the draconian cutbacks of the present
cycling element to them, with some directly
UK administration, a new challenge stands
implementing similar schemes.
before the industry and that is how to foster
“People have learnt from Cycling England,”
an exchange of ideas and interests, between
said new executive director Phillip Darnton
the Government and the bicycle industry,
(see page 20). “Bids have been based on things
which has to a large degree now been
that have been proven by Cycling England
attenuated.”
through the
The retiring
Demonstration
president also posed
programme.”
the question: “How
But even if lessons
and who can now
have been learnt locally,
offer advice to the
there are bigger tests
towns and cities –
ahead. Taylor used his last
particularly to the
speech as BA president to
benefit of cycling –
discuss the challenge of a
regarding access to
growing population and
the £560 million
the pressure the shift to
Local Sustainable
living in urban areas has
Philip Taylor, Outgoing
Transport Fund.”
put on the roads and
President of the BA
In short, how will
transport infrastructure.
the industry fill the
“According to the
gap left by two wheel advocacy success story
World Bank, 3.3 billion people now live in
Cycling England?
cities worldwide. By 2030, 60 per cent of the
world’s population will inhabit cities. Every day
BIG SOCIETY CHOOSES BIKES
almost 180,000 people take up residence in
The AGM heard the good news that the
cities. In the developing world 60 million
lessons learnt from Cycling England’s Cycling
people move into cities each year and, unless
Demonstration Towns and Cities project –
there is a dramatic and unforeseen population
which found that investment in cycling has a
crash, this rate will continue for at least the
benefit to cost ratio of three-to-one – are
next 30 years.
“A new challenge now
faces the industry. That is
how to foster an
exchange between the
Government and the bike
trade...”
>>>
BIKEBIZ.COM
BIKEBIZ JULY 19
REPORT | BA AGM
>>>
“The result is that city
populations are growing faster than
infrastructure can adapt and not only does this
cause health risks and social problems, but also
environmental concerns. Air quality worsens
with the result that worldwide one million
people die each year as a result of urban air
pollution. Traffic increases, leading to more
congestion and more road crashes. According to
the World Health Organisation, a staggering 1.2
million people die, and as many as 50 million
are injured, in urban traffic crashes in
developing countries each year.”
“And this statistic is unlikely to change as a
result of us all driving electric cars - however
heavily subsidised.
“80 per cent of the total UK populace – that’s
over 50 million – is classified as urban dwelling
and urbanisation here is forecast to grow at 0.7
per cent – 350,000 people – per annum to 2015.
“Integrating urban and suburban public and
personal transport has never been such an
important, global topic.”
The challenge is to ensure that cycling is
part of the solution.
Taylor concluded his tenure on a positive
note, stating that: “Although cycling in the UK
may still not be what is was in the early 20th
Century in either an industrial sense, or in
ownership and usage terms, it is, I am
convinced, on an unstoppable upward trend
that can only be positive for all involved in the
bicycle business.”
20 BIKEBIZ JULY
PRESIDENTIAL CYCLE
Three amigos Phillip
Darnton, the new
executive director of
the BA Philip Taylor,
retiring president
Philip Taylor retired from his position of BA
president at the AGM. He said: “I am pleased
to be able to hand over my post to Mark
Bickerton following on from a period that has
seen sustained industry growth, increased
levels of cycling in sport, leisure and
commuting, as well as political recognition of
cycling’s benefits upon health, transport and
the environment.
“I am therefore in no doubt that he will be
able to guide a still strong Association, safe in
the knowledge that cycling will continue to
have increasingly greater prospects in future.”
The AGM also saw the announcement that
ex-Cycling England chair Phillip Darnton
would be taking on a new role at the BA as
executive director. In the new position
Darnton will promote cycling and also Bike
Hub, the cycle industry’s levy fund.
The new president said of Darnton’s
appointment: “I am sure the appointment of
Phillip is going to be a fantastic
strengthening of the Bicycle Association,
and will give him a continued platform from
which he can work his magic for benefit of
the UK bicycle industry, trade and the
continued promotion of cycling.
“His tireless work over the last few years
have benefited everyone who has had
anything to do with bicycles in the UK, or
is ever likely to have anything to do with
bicycles. Knowing that we have his skills and
personality at the centre of the Bicycle
Association going forward is something that I
am absolutely thrilled about.”
Bickerton also paid tribute to the outgoing
president: “I would like to thank Philip Taylor
again for all his very hard work as President
over the last four years. He has put an
enormous amount of effort into ensuring
that the BA has continued to be an
organisation that the membership can be
proud of and benefit from all its activities.”
BIKEBIZ.COM
RETROSPECTIVE | BIKE HUB
The envy of the
world
The UK cycle industry’s own Bike Hub levy
is a virtually unique phenomenon around
the globe, proving Britain’s bike trade is
willing to invest in its own, and cycling’s,
future. Jonathon Harker charts the
progress of the levy...
22 BIKEBIZ JULY
EIGHT YEARS old and counting, the voluntary
Bike Hub levy has given hundreds of thousands
of pounds each year – over £2 million in total
– to help secure the future of cycling across
the UK.
Around £400,000 is generated each year via
contributions from suppliers and IBDs through
the levy, which was created by the Bicycle
Association and the Association of Cycle
Traders back in 2003.
But where has that cash been spent, I hear
you cry? Here are some of the highlights...
BIKE IT
Bike It is a scheme run by sustainable transport
charity Sustrans’ designed to encourage
children to cycle.
Bike Hub helps pay the wages of 58 fulltime Bike It officers who work with schools to
promote biking, organising cycle activities and
helping make it easy for kids to cycle to and
from school. The scheme currently reaches 600
UK schools each year, and 94 per cent of
headteachers said that the tuition has helped
pupils become more physically active, as well
as encouraged active transport to and from
school.
BIKEABILITY
Training up wee nippers to be confident and
safe on their bike is a no brainer and Bike Hub
has pledged £30,000 over two years to Cycling
Scotland to help establish Bikeability training
in Scotland.
THE BIG PEDAL
Sticking with the theme that today’s children
are tomorrow’s (er and indeed today’s) cyclists,
the levy has given youngsters significant focus,
not least in the Big Pedal. In another team up
with Sustrans, the Big Pedal was a cycle race
pitting schools against each other across the
land. Staff and pupils clocked up cycle miles for
prizes and as a result the Big Pedal saw a
whopping 990 bike journeys made in just three
weeks by schools taking part in the race.
BIKEBIZ.COM
RETROSPECTIVE | BIKE HUB
The Victoria Pendleton led
Parliamentary Cycle Group pre-ride
© Phil Dixon
“Age Well on Wheels
helped the over 50s get
back on their bikes, while
Darlovelo was pitched at
giving young women the
confidence to take up
cycling...”
NEW IDEAS FUND
In 2009 Bike Hub established the New Ideas
Fund to try new schemes to encourage cycling.
The three schemes to benefit targeted some
diverse demographics.
Age Well on Wheels, run by the London
Cycle Campaign, aimed to help over-50s get
back on their bikes, while Darlovelo was
pitched at encouraging young women onto
bikes. The final scheme – Get Cycling – was a
Sheffield and Hull-set initiative, encouraging
people to rent a bike, gain confidence through
training and then go on to buy their own bikes.
BIKE WEEK
Bike Week has been encouraging the nation to
cycle since the 1920s and an impressive
500,000 people took part in over 1,900 events
in the week last year. The contribution to its
operation from the Bike Hub levy has been
more crucial than ever this year, with the
Government pulling the plug on Cycling
England and with it, its £75,000 contribution
BIKEBIZ.COM
BikeHub has worked
tirelessly to give
particularly women
and the elderly the
confidence to cycle
to the nationwide event. The week is also
backed by Transport for London and Team
Green Britain, part of EDF Energy. This year
dealers have been polled, via the ACT, on how
best to grow business as a result of Bike Week.
A retail partner will now operate for this year’s
Bike Week as a result of that.
JOURNEY PLANNING APPS
There are over 11 million smartphone owners
in the UK and Bike Hub has cunningly tapped
into that market to direct business to the door
of bike retailers, all via the Bike Hub
smartphone app. The free piece of software is a
navigation tool for cyclists with a shop-finding
feature, directing users to the nearest bike
shops along routes, wherever they are in the
country. First released on iPhone, the Bike Hub
app was made more widely available with an
Android app release at the end of last year.
Those are just a few of the projects Bike Hub
has been a part of during its first eight years. Find
out more about the levy at www.bikehub.co.uk.
BIKEBIZ JULY 23
LAUNCH REPORT | CHARGE 2012
Charged up
and ready to go
With the buying power of Cycling Sports Group
behind the brand and the absorbtion of the Summer
Bicycles brand, plenty has changed ahead of the
2012 season at Charge. Mark Sutton discusses the
changes with Nick Larsen and his team…
IT ISN'T A figment of your imagination. Never
one to do what everyone else is doing, Charge
really has held a bike launch in the middle of a
London department store. Propping its entire
2012 line on eye-wateringly priced furniture
and designer shagpile rugs, the Conran Store on
Fulham Road played host and will continue to
do so with two models from the 2012 line.
Brand owner Nick Larsen told BikeBiz why
the department store made an interesting
launch location: "We'd been in discussions with
the Conran Store about having two of our
models sold via the store's gift guide and also in
store. We mentioned in passing product
launches and various shows that our brand
attends and that's when the store asked if we'd
like to use their Fulham Road location as a
backdrop for one such launch."
With the Conran shop's main clientele being
made up of affluent females, what better
location could there be to unveil an expanded
line of bikes tailored to the feminine form.
Some models may look vaguely familiar to
those in the trade who formerly stocked Cycling
Sports Group's Summer Bicycles line and that's
because Larsen's team has taken the reigns
having absorbed the line recently.
"There's four new women's bikes joining the
catalogue for 2012," explains Larsen. "We've
added our own Charge touches throughout,
most notably on the frames, such as a new twin
top tube on the Hob. There's been some
carefully considered work on the colour palette
too, with more contemporary shades in use
across the board."
24 BIKEBIZ JULY
“There’s
around 30
bikes in the
2012 line
and few of
those have
encountered
price rises...”
Nick Larsen
29-inch wheeled builds
join this year’s
catalogue, as seen
below
And if a measure of success was needed,
several customers who entered with furniture
on the mind took away catalogues for bikes.
In further welcome news for retailers, for the
most part the 2012 line has either got cheaper
at retail, or held prices at last year's levels. This
is in part down to the backing of goliath
Cycling Sports Group, though also down to the
popularity of last year's line bringing home the
bacon for Larsen's brand.
"We've been able to buy in larger numbers
this year which has benefited the brand in
many ways," explains Larsen. "We've had great
sales results with some of our larger accounts
and our increased buying power has done us a
big favour on holding prices down. There's
around 30 bikes in the 2012 catalogue and of
those that were around last year, very few
have encountered price rises."
Charge will also this year join the 29er
bandwagon, introducing the 'Cooker' specced
for three different price points, handily all
within the cycle to work scheme bracket.
Beginning at £699,99, the 'Cooker Rigid' lays
the foundations for anyone curious of the
larger wheel size, providing a sturdy steed on
which to build, should the 29er bug bite. A
Tange Infinity tubed frame features on all, with
the highest priced Cooker costing £999.99 and
coming specced with a 29er specific version of
the RockShox Dart fork and Sram x5
components.
Joining the scores of names touting the
29er's potential to open a new era of
mountain biking growth, Larsen himself is a
huge fan of his own Cooker, telling BikeBiz: "I
love the way these bikes ride, I'd choose to ride
my 29er over most now."
The majority of Charge's 2012 catalogue,
including new component goods, is projected
to be available by September this year, though
models specced with hub gears are likely to be
delayed.
Cycling Sports Group: 01202 732288
BIKEBIZ.COM
BIKEBIZ.COM
BIKEBIZ JULY 25
LAUNCH REPORT | RED OR DEAD
Bringing
sexy back
It’s not just specs that can be sexy.
The bike market is ripe for an
emphasis on fashion, fun and
beauty, says Red or Dead.
Jonathon Harker reports
from Carnaby Street...
MUCH HAS been written and said on the
subject of how to get the nation’s women
cycling. And to the cycle trade’s credit, it’s a
topic that the industry is getting to grips with.
And really, no wonder: it’s a whole customer
base that is potentially being missed out on.
From initiatives from British Cycling, Sustrans
and Bike Hub, to more profit driven methods
like brands increasing product ranges to include
gear that appeals to and is designed for women,
there is a concerted effort to engage a broader
bike market.
Last month two British brands came together
to launch a new range of fashion-conscious
bikes and accessories primarily for the young
women market.
TWO WORLDS COLLIDE
British fashion brand Red or Dead was launched
in the ‘80s by cycle nut Wayne Hemingway and
his wife Geraldine. From modest roots as a
market stall in Camden, Red or Dead grew to
release its first collection in 1989, boost the
Doc Martin name as a fashion brand, open
stores around the world, establish production in
Lancashire and win numerous awards.
Throughout its three decades Red or Dead has
marked itself out from others in a number of
ways – not least in being a ‘brand for everyone’
with an emphasis on affordability and fun.
26 BIKEBIZ JULY
Those are brand values that have been
brought to its first range of bikes, that have
been designed to ‘knock your socks off’.
Featuring frames emblazoned with Red or
Dead prints, the initial range includes the
Seaspray, Bikeland and Ruscia Rose – the
former retailing at £399.99 and the latter at
£299.99. The bikes all come with Red or Deaddesigned matching bike covers, comfort saddle,
comfort grips and retro styled bicycle bells.
There’s also an accessory line in the works,
with Red or Dead printed cycle helmets now
available.
At present, Evans Cycles
has exclusivity on the
Red or Dead bike line
HISTORY IN THE MAKING
“It's been a long journey," Red or Dead brand
president Julia Massey tells BikeBiz. "We've
taken the best of what Raleigh does and have
made it more beautiful."
And who is Red or Dead hoping will respond
to the range? Massey explains: “The target
consumer is the recreational cyclist who wants
an affordable and beautiful bike with great
design. The consumer who buys into Red or
Dead wants great design at an affordable price.
We saw a gap in the market for a ‘fashionable
bicycle’.”
Fashion and bikes haven’t always been the
most likely of bedfellows. Lycra has largely
been frowned on by the High Street, and fears
of helmet hair have been cited as off putting.
With that in mind, you could argue that Red or
Dead is forging a path into new territory, a
charge BikeBiz puts to Massey. “I hadn’t really
thought about it this way, but I guess we are
trendsetters in the bicycle world.”
The strength of the Raleigh brand,
particularly in the world outside cycling, was a
crucial factor in the team up, as Massey
reveals: “Raleigh is an iconic British bicycle
brand. They also make bikes that are good
quality, yet affordable. We are very proud to be
working with such a known and trusted British
bicycle manufacturer.”
Red or Dead wouldn’t be drawn on how long
the partnership with Raleigh has been designed
to last, but if the level of interest converts into
sales, there could be a wider range to follow.
“Initial reaction has been most positive,”
says Massey. “We expect them to be a big
success and we have more ideas and designs to
follow.”
Evans Cycles currently has exclusivity on the
bike range, but at the launch evening, situated
just off London’s famous Carnaby Street last
month, BikeBiz was told many other retailers
were in attendance, giving the range the
thumbs up, with hints of a broader retail
distribution some time in the future.
http://tinyurl.com/3dyhxwc
BIKEBIZ.COM
28 BIKEBIZ JULY
BIKEBIZ.COM
PREVIEW | ICEBIKE*
ice to see you again
Madison’s summer-set house show is returning this month – and now with two additional dates due to
popular demand! Will Fripp tells Jonathon Harker about some of the launches, offers and more...
STOP THE PRESS: Due to dealer demand
Madison has added two extra days to
iceBike*, so the show will now run from July
19th to 21st, followed by two extra days on
Monday July 25th and Tuesday 26th.
cycle retailers now seem able to come to
terms with. As registrations to date show this
iceBike* is gonna be another corker!
Can you explain why Madison has brought
iceBike* July back again for a second year?
Basically, following the immense popularity of
last year’s July event, iceBike* July combines all
the smaller previously held mid-year, next
season launch events, into one bigger show. It
is clear in today’s busy business environment it
is becoming less and less easy to expect our
customers to spend time visiting many events.
iceBike* July brings all our launches together
into one big 'must attend' event, held just
before the start of the busy summer holidays.
February's iceBike* saw record attendance –
what are your expectations this iceBike*?
We were actually shocked by the turnout at
last year’s July iceBike* and again at this year’s
February show. We are very grateful that our
dealers have come to value these events. We
put our heart and soul into them and making
them a worthwhile visit for all concerned, so
it’s great that more and more dealers are
attending. Event-by-event the growth is
brilliant. An investment of one day to see all
the new bikes, clothing, accessories, parts and
more is definitely something most progressive
BIKEBIZ.COM
If your store is
interested in Triathlon,
be sure to track down
Profile Design’s stand
Can you reveal some of the highlights?
There is plenty of what to expect at the show
on the site, including new bikes from Ridgeback
– the Dual Track, a 12-inch kids bike, a road
commuter with discs and the Velocity and
Comet with second colours. Genesis will launch
the Madison Track at the show, which will also
see a full suspension prototype, a 29er and the
Day 01 Alfine 11.
iceBike* will have a UK ‘first look’ for
Hydrapak’s new accessory range and
packaging. Consumers will be able to ‘upgrade’
their tired old bladders for what are widely
regarded as the ‘best on the planet’, while
dealers will be eligible for a new freestanding
POS package. Electron’s new Pico Super 2 is a
super bright bright compact 1W rear light.
Pitched as a commuter’s dream, it’s the
brightest rear light ever in the Electron range
and one of the brightest on the market at this
price.
Adventure will reveal two new colours of
Zooms; Noddy Nose red and Teenage Mutant
Ninja turtle green (not actual names of
colours). iceBike* pre-orders will be delivered
from September.
Dealers coming to iceBike* will see a
revolutionary new product called Cycra. We
can’t talk about it yet, as we are in the middle
of all the patent applications, but this product
will revolutionise the world of mudguards as
you know it. It will dramatically reduce the
time it takes to fit a traditional mudguard,
offer unparalleled protection against the
elements and, of course, comes with
CycraGuard’s lifetime warranty.
With British Triathlon announcing
record membership growth of 15.7
>>>
BIKEBIZ JULY 29
PREVIEW | ICEBIKE*
per cent in 2010/2011, triathlon
products are in demand like never
before. Profile Design will present entry and
mid-range level suits at iceBike* to address the
requirements of new and accomplished
swimmers in the growing tri market. Dealers
can book a slot to learn more about effectively
selling wetsuits, with workshops led by
Thorsten Frahm, Ironman athlete and Profile
Design European manager.
Elite will present limited edition Arion
Tricoloré exclusive to July’s iceBike*,
celebrating 150 years of Italian unity. This
limited edition version of the best selling Arion
training roller is made in Elite’s Veneto factory
with stylish red, white and green rollers. It
couldn’t be more Italian if they were carved
from Parmesan and delivered by Ferrari. Every
Arion Tricoloré will also include two Corsa
bottles with an exclusive celebratory design
(£6.99 each) for the same price as a standard
Arion. These will only be available to customers
who place their orders at iceBike*.
Respro’s ‘must stock’ range of award winning
high visibility accessories will again be on show
in time for dealers to make their choices for
the coming autumn/winter season. And, in a
shock surprise, Cervélo will attend summer
iceBike*.
We look to help retailers plan their next
season range plans at iceBike* and we will
have a fantastic offer pack (as always) to help
boost margins and more than cover the cost of
a day from the business,
attending iceBike*. Every
brand on show will have
one or more offers on the
table.
>>>
needs. Above and beyond the more boring
operational side – it simply speeds the whole
process up for everyone; register online – print
your ticket, scan in and your done – no queues
– that’s the goal!
Do you expect many dealers to take part in
the BBQ and Bike ride this year? What was
participation like for the ride last time?
We definitely expect more people to do the
company bike ride, in fact we know it as folk
are busy signing to
come now. It’s not a
scary ride – more of a
jaunt – in fact last
year some staff even
did it on bikes they
had built up
themselves – frames
and all.
Everyone had a
great time and after
the ride you simply
come back to the
event and we have a
BBQ and free bar – sit
Will Fripp out in the sun (hope
I'm not tempting fate
here) and relax. Check out Madison MD Dom’s
Video of last year at http://t.co/MIgSRFV
“Elite will present a
limited Arion Tricolore
celebrating 150 years of
Italian unity. It couldn’t
be more Italian if they
carved it from parmesan
and had it delivered via
Ferrari...”
Will new brand GoPro
feature? Why is
Madison so excited by
this brand?
Yes, of course. We will
have a significant
showing for GoPro and
will be able to display all
we have planned to
promote the brand,
including a fantastic instore POS offer.
GoPro is exciting because of the size of it.
It’s the world's number one. Check our YouTube
and see how many results and views have
GoPro tags – its mega. It’s a simple range,
simple proposition and a high yield brand from
a small footprint and relatively low investment
– especially when compared to bikes.
How important is it to pre-register?
If folk need hotels in particular, we obviously
need to know. The more we have a feel on
numbers, the better we can cater for folk. We
basically want to ensure we deliver visitors
30 BIKEBIZ JULY
More generally speaking: how's business?
Settled into the new facilities now?
Growth has been staggering this year, with the
budget growth expectation for the year
exceeded in the first five months. New
premises, new warehouse management system
– a huge programme of investment planned
and were only half way through – new ERP
system and automated picking are still to
come, among other innovations to further
increase our service and efficiency.
And how has the B2B iPhone app been
received by dealers?
Really well, no really. We have 528 active app
users and over 1,800 logins in the last month
alone. A new version is currently in
development with better iPad compatibility
and a load more features.
Beyond iceBike* what is next for Madison?
Any new brand signings in the works?
Madison has many new brands in the
ascendancy like Peal Izumi, Giro footwear,
Saracen, Genesis, GoPro, Madison clothing and
more – things are flying. There is always new
stuff in the pipeline of course, especially with
new exciting stuff happening in own brand
ranges, huge investments in this area, in new
experienced talent and in tooling which will
take us on to the next level. Things are never
dull, with several international shows in the
months ahead for outdoor, cycle and snow I'm
sure there will be more to come.
We’re also making a bigger investment in
own team sponsorships, The Madison Saracen
team model has worked really well for us and
we'll be looking for more opportunities like this.
Both Genesis (for the second) and Saracen (for
the first year) will be at Eurobike – making
inroads with our own brands into Europe and
the wider market.
We also have our first account manager
based in Europe, who started this year in
France and is making good inroads.
There is loads more on the site and all
customers will get regular emails with event
news as we can release stuff. There is lots more
to come between now and the show, so keep
an eye out!
www.icebike.co.uk
BIKEBIZ.COM
FRE GET
E 20 YOU
12 L R
ISTI
NG!
in association with
AN ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO RETAILERS,
SUPPLIERS AND SERVICES WITHIN THE CYCLE TRADE
Choose your category
SERVICES AND TRAINING
MEDIA AND PUBLISHING
DISTRIBUTION AND WHOLESALE
Legal, insurance, Cycle To Work, sales and
mechanic training, shop fitters, service centres,
printing and prototyping
Web publishing, blogs, magazine,
broadcasting, freelance, books
Importers, wholesalers, dealer/distributors
MANUFACTURER, STANDALONE BRANDS,
FRAMEBUILDERS AND AGENTS
E-COMMERCE AND EPOS
ORGANISATIONS, CHARITY
AND ASSOCIATIONS
ePos, website builders
Trade bodies, charities linked to cycling, associations
Any brands with own distribution,
UK based manufacturers, agents
EVENT ORGANISERS, EVENT
HOSTING, HOLIDAY AND HIRE
RETAILERS, WORKSHOP AND MAIL ORDER
MARKETING, PR AND CONSULTANCY
Retail of all shapes and sizes, maintenance
both in house and mobile, online sales
Consultants, freelance, PR, copywriting services
Trail and hire centres, conference, cycle tours,
event organisers, venues
COMPLETE AND RETURN THIS FORM TODAY FOR YOUR FREE LISTING IN THE 2012 BIKEBIZ BIBLE:
(You only need to complete this form once)
Company Name: …………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
Website: …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Address: ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
Category: ……………………………………………………………………...................................................................
Telephone number: ……………………………………………………………………………………………………….
Email (for office use only): ……………………………………………………………………………………..
Please return this form by email to BikeBizBible@intentmedia.co.uk or by fax to 01992 535 648
or by post to: BikeBiz Bible, Intent Media, Saxon House, 6a St Andrew Street, Hertford SG14 1JA
If you have any questions please contact BikeBizBible@intentmedia.co.uk
FOR ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES CONTACT:
Carly.Bailey@intentmedia.co.uk or call 01992 535647
2PURE | COMPETITION
h
t
r
o
w
0
0
0
1
Win over £
t
i
k
of
rank Brothers product range has
come a long way since the days of
the groundbreaking eggbeater
pedals. Their product range is now up to
eleven categories: pedals, wheelsets,
bars, stems, head sets, saddles,
seatposts, pumps, tools, bags and
accessories.
C
too - coming in at a very reasonable
£1599.99 for a premium carbon wheelset.
New for 2011 are the Cobalt 2, 3 and 11
wheelsets, with the Cobalt 2 weighing
1690g and the 3 weighing 1500g. The
Cobalt 11 is the first Carbon wheel from
Crank Brothers. Weighing in at just 1380g,
this is the lightest wheel they have ever
produced. Not only has the weight been
kept down, the price has been kept down
Many Crank Brothers products now come
with a 5 year warranty. Eggbeater and
Candy 2, 3 and 11 pedals fall under the 5
year guarantee. This offers customers
complete peace of mind and allows your
staff to sell with confidence.
See the full range at
www.crankbrothers.com
Also new for 2011 are the Iodine saddles.
Each and every saddle is handcrafted in
Italy from Italian leathers and comes with
replaceable rails and new noseflex
technology.
2PURE | COMPETITION
ns
Answer these simple questio :
g
in
n
in
w
f
o
ce
n
a
ch
a
h
it
w
in
to be
1
2
3
How many years warranty will your customers have with Candy 3 pedals?
What is the difference in weight between a Cobalt 2 and Cobalt 3 wheel?
In which country are Iodine saddles handmade?
Simply email your answers plus your name, contact
telephone number and company to
bikebiz-competition@intentmedia.co.uk
Winner will be picked at random and notified by August 31st 2011
TOP PRIZE
We are giving away a full Cobalt 3 kit worth £1015 - Wheelset,
Stem, Seatpost, Handlebars, Grips, Saddle (Iodine)
RUNNERS UP
We have 30 pairs of Candy 3 pedals worth £94.99 for runners up.
2pure Ltd. 46c Bavelaw Rd,
Balerno, Edinburgh, EH14 7AE
0844 811 2001
2pure are UK distributors of Crank Brothers, Ibis, Clif Bar, De Marchi,
Feedback Sports, Jimi, Lizard Skins, NiteRider, Paceline, Pedro's, Pinhead.
"
!!! BRAND SPOTLIGHT | ISKUTE
True Grit
Love them or loathe them,
it’s hard to deny that the kick
scooter craze is getting
bigger and coming to a town
near you. Distributor iSkute’s
Dan Maker speaks to
Jonathon Harker about the
potential of the growing
market and the Grit brand...
THE KICK SCOOTER is enjoying a renaissance,
to put it mildly. From the street to the skate
park, the phenomenon is becoming more
widely seen than ever before.
To the uninitiated the appeal of kick
scooters may seem a bit of a mystery. So let’s
start with some history.
Scooters have been around for decades, but
about 11 or 12 years ago the kick scooter
market was booming. Dan Maker was a
significant player in the market back then,
being sole distributor for the Micro Scooter
brand into the cycle market. He tells BikeBiz:
“Back then scooters were high value and
great quality, used by adults and kids. Initially
they were used as commuting tools because
they were lightweight and folded easily so you
could carry them on the train or put them in
the car. As the market grew, more kids started
using them, because of the ease of use
enabling kids some independence on
a product that was easier to ride
than a bike. We had about 16
months where we could not hang on to
the demand. It was amazing”
But the burgeoning sector was soon to
take a turn for the worse. Maker explains:
“As the popularity of the sector grew, ever
greater numbers of companies flooded the
market with scooters – particularly at the
toy end of the market – and many were
cheap, poor quality and badly marketed.
Some guys stuck around, but the margin
had been destroyed and many
independent stores got out.”
The flood of product led Maker’s firm to
exit the sector. Despite the market saturation
back then, major players – like JD Bug, Razor
and Micro Scooter – remained, diversifying
BIKEBIZ.COM
Grit targets the skate
park and performance
scooter market
their portfolio to weather the storm while
Facebook and the forums. Grit continues to
producing quality scooters. Maker explains:
listen to the users and continues to push its
“Kids started to use scooters in skate parks.
production team to the limits.”
There was a surge in using them for tricks and
One of Grit’s USPs is its readiness for the
high performance.”
after-market market for upgrades. While other
The shift to trick-orientated performance led
smaller brands offer certain OEM components,
to manufacturers altering their product to
Grit offers the full gamut of parts. Maker says:
stand up to the rigours of jumps and the like. A
“Almost all of the Grit parts can be used on
number of new brands emerged to take
any other scooter in the market for that
advantage of that changing use, initially
complete custom set up. For retailers they
making robust P&A for the rigours of the
offer phenomenal value and great margin.
emerging sport.
“The lower-end
Those new players
kick scooters might
have since moved to
be selling well, but we
offer complete
don’t see the market
scooters.
like that. We see it as
“There are a
high end, high quality.
couple of brands
That’s what we’re
doing a great job
aiming for. Instead of
Dan Maker, iSkute
now. Grit, Madd Gear
the price being driven
and Dogg Scooters
down, like in the old
are among some of the best,” Maker says. Many
days, it is the complete opposite. The better
brands serving the sector are anticipating
quality and design is driving the price up.”
healthy sales over the coming months. “We
iSkute is the exclusive European distributor
expect kick scooters to be very strong through
for Grit Performance Scooters. iSkute has
summer and Christmas.”
appointed TKC as a sub-distributor working
only in the skate market, leaving iSkute to
THE NITTY GRITTY
concentrate fully on bringing Grit to the bike
Globally the skate park kick scooter movement
biz. “We have good stocks now, but our biggest
started in the USA and has since been picked
challenge is keeping up with demand. We have
up in Australia and the UK. Firmly placed in
more stock arriving, but it is often sold before
that market is Grit. Two year old Grit is owned
it arrives. We are advising dealers to reserve the
by Australian Brett Varga and is arguably
stock they need,” Maker tells BikeBiz. “The
among the leading brands there.
market is in its infancy, but you can’t deny
“Grit has developed its product as the sport
how popular it is. The learning curve is much
has developed. From what the kids have been
easier than on a BMX or skateboard. That is
doing in the skate parks, Grit has matched its
why the sector is expanding so quickly,” Maker
products accordingly with great feedback from
concludes.
the team and listening to the users via
sales@iskute.com
“We see the scooter market
as high end. Better quality
and design is driving the
price of kick scooters up.”
BIKEBIZ JULY 35
ACTSMART | INSURANCE
Beat the thieves!
The first half of 2011 has seen cycle retailers challenged by the economy on two fronts – reduced
consumer spend and a growing number of shop thefts. ActSmart asked specialist business insurance
partner Butterworth Spengler for their top 15 tips on shop security...
The Cycle shops policy includes as
standard:
A 50 per cent increase in stock
levels for any three month period
in a year
Road testing/demonstration by
customers
Road testing by staff following
repair/servicing
Cycle hire
Public liability indemnity of
£2,000,000
Theft of cycles on display outside
of the shop
Up to 30 per cent no claims
discount
ACT Members also benefit from:
Before any improvements to the security are
made, retailers should check that their
premises are not within conservation areas.
This could result in external security measures
being prohibited. Certain security
improvements may require planning consent
and it is important to ensure that any
additional security does not contravene fire
escape requirements.
Although protection of property and stock is
the key objective, making a high standard of
security very evident is more likely to prevent
any attempt in the first place. Consider how
your security compares with other similar
premises in the area.
The threat of ram raids can be limited by
installing either static or retractable bollards
across the front of the property, subject to the
necessary permissions.
Fit good quality mortice deadlocks to
BS3621 or equivalent to all external doors excluding designated fire escape doors.
Ensure that the panic release facilities on
fire exit doors are maintained in a good
condition and that the securing bolts fully
engage when the doors are closed.
Check that the door frames are secured to
the fabric of the building and fit hinge bolts to
all outward opening external doors
All external timber doors should be of a
solid timber construction, if not strengthen
them externally with sheet steel or consider
replacing the doors with solid timber ones.
Fit key operated window locks to all ground
floor, basement and accessible upper floor
opening windows i.e. those close to flat roofs,
balconies, drain pipes, external staircases and
the like.
Consider the installation of solid roller
shutters in very vulnerable areas, for display
windows and doors with extensive glass
panelling,
BIKEBIZ.COM
Where solid roller shutters aren’t fitted,
consider leaving some lights on within the
sales area out of business hours and install
security lighting in any particularly vulnerable
areas, such as at the rear of the shop, or within
a secluded side entrance way.
Where there are vulnerable smaller
windows, sky lights or roof lights consider
securing them with steel bars or grills.
Install chains through the frames of the
bikes and secure to the fabric of the building,
removing high value items from easily
accessible areas, securing them separately out
of business hours.
Do not leave large amounts of cash on the
premises overnight, take it to the bank
frequently. Any cash kept on the premises
should be locked in a suitably rated safe
anchored to the building structure.
Consider electronic protection. Install a good
quality (PD6662 - European Grade 3) intruder
alarm system, linked to an approved Alarm
Receiving Centre. Ensure that the system is
certificated and maintained by an NSI or SSAIB
approved alarm company and that it benefits
from Level 1 police response.
Consider the installation of a CCTV system
by an NSI or SSAIB installer and in particularly
high risk areas where there has been a history
of thefts, review the use of a security fog
generating system, activated by the intruder
alarm system.
CALL IN THE SPECIALISTS?
If you are uncertain about your insurance
cover, or simply want to test the value of your
cover against specialist insurance at next
renewal, contact Butterworth Spengler on
0844 764 6464. Alternatively, simply e-mail
info@actsmart.biz with your business name
and renewal date and we’ll arrange a contact
call.
Butterworth Spengler
has over 20 years
experience within
specialist insurance
A membership discount on the
policy.
A loyalty bonus at each renewal
A reduced minimum premium
of £300
‘Demonstration day’ cover
included free of charge
“With the help of
ActSmart and Butterworth
Spengler, I had a brand
new policy within seven
hours and I saved £300 off
the renewal premium from
my previous insurer.”
Allan Boult, Blazing Saddles,
West Yorkshire June 2011
For more information call
ActSmart on
0845 618 7256
www.actsmart.biz
BIKEBIZ JULY 37
OFF THE RECORD
Dipping a toe into sectors
beyond cycling? BikeBiz
provides the month’s news
from related markets...
OutDoor Fair to host record numbers
NEW PRODUCTS
Trade show set to fill the
very same Freidrichshafen
exhibition halls as
Eurobike later this
month...
890 EXHIBITORS are signed up to the July 14th
to 17th Outdoor Trade Fair held at the very
same Friedrichshafen location as Eurobike's
annual bicycle trade meet.
“It never ceases to amaze me how much an
industry can change in collective terms as the
result of one Outdoor show,” said Mark Held,
secretary general of the European Outdoor
Group (EOG). "Nearly all the industry
association’s members will be on hand in
Friedrichshafen. Never before has there been a
MONGOOSE 2 TENT
The Mongoose 2 Tent is pitched (ho ho)
as a professional backpacking tent
offering lightweight, compact and
versatile features. Ideal for adventurous
campers or hikers, the tent is quick to
pitch and, crucially, has a small pack
size.
With a front storage area and
reinforced pegging points, the
inner, made of 190T
breathable polyester, can
be used on its own in
hot climates. The
outer
dimensions are
38 BIKEBIZ JULY
“We’ve 890
exhibitors at
the show this
year...”
Mark Held
higher proportion of international exhibitors at
the trade fair. The total number of exhibitors
has risen this year by another three per cent,
taking the grand total to 890."
The exhibition will be split into halls
containing sections such as the 'World of Tents',
an 'outdoor fashion show' and a dedicated area
for the show's industry awards.
For more information on the Outdoor trade
fair, log on to www.outdoor-show.com. Like
Eurobike, it is advised booking well ahead.
SLEEPING POD SLEEPING BAG
317(l) by 240 (w) and 100 (h) cm.
The Mongoose 2 features fibreglass
poles and taped seams, Retail price is
£64.99 and the tent is available from
Gelert (01766 510 300).
The Sleeping Pod has been designed to
offer unrestricted body movement for
the user, upping comfort levels
considerably. With a unique shape, the
Pod allows for the sleeper to go into
foetal position, curl up and sleep in a
naturally comfortable position.
The Sleeping Pod won a 2010
Camping Magazine Award and comes in
a variety of colours, Camo Flora, Illusion,
Camo Sphere, cocoa/Spinach green,
Mars Red and Bluejay. RRP is £44.99 and
it is available only from Gelert (01766
510 300).
BIKEBIZ.COM
OFF THE RECORD
NEWS IN BRIEF
Take it outdoors:
Outdoor pursuits
retail finance
Following the Ride It Away cycle finance
scheme (worth over £20m per annum),
ActSmart, in partnership with Moneyway,
has launched a brand new retail finance
scheme for outdoors retailers: Take it
outdoors.
The scheme is now live, enabling retailers
to sell customers all the outdoors
equipment, clothing and accessories they
want on finance. For more info call
ActSmart: 0845 618 7256. There’s more
from the firm on page 37.
Ash cloud halts the
snow season’s kick off
SKI SLOPES IN Argentina were covered in ash
following eruptions in the Puyehye-CordonCaulle volcano range in Chile at the beginning
of June.
First Tracks Online reported that the slopes
of Bariloche and Villa la Angostura were worst
affected by the effects of the ash cloud, just
weeks before the start of the ski and
snowboard season. The cost of the eruption on
local businesses are yet to be estimated.
Go Outdoors strikes
£30m with Lloyds
banking group
The ash cloud has been pushed from the site
of the explosion in Chile to Southern Argentina
and back again, according to the BBC, and is
the first serious volcano eruption in the area
for over fifty years.
4,000 residents had been evacuated from
the area at time of press, with many more
likely to move with fears the ash will
contaminate areas and clog rivers, leading
them to flood.
The cost of the
ongoing
eruption to
local business
is yet to be
estimated
Ardblair snaps up Hillsound
HILLSOUND EQUIPMENT has joined the
Ardblair Sports Importers portfolio, with
distribution starting this year.
The Hillsound brand designed and developed
a glacier crampon for the US in 2007, taking
advantage of a gap in the market for a less
aggressive and easy to use crampon for local
mountain trails. The firm launched the Trail
Crampon and Pro in 2008.
Key current product, the Hillsound Trail
Crampon, is designed for diverse winter terrains
and weather conditions. Using an ergonomic
plate system, the crampon serves up enhanced
traction and less muscular fatigue for winter
wilderness pursuits.
The Trail Crampon Pro is made from heattreated S50C carbon steel. The ten-point Trail
Crampon Pro weighs a light 680 grams per
pair, making it ideal for glacier travel, and icy
or snowy approaches.
Hillsound Equipment has an urban friendly
crampon in the works, called FreeSteps. Aimed
at the mass market the FreeSteps will launch
at Summer Outdoor Retailer Show 2011, held
in Salt Lake City.
www.hillsound.ca
GARMIN MONTANA
Garmin has revealed the
Montana – a handheld
touchscreen GPS device
designed for use on foot, on the
water and in the car.
Sporting a large dual-orientation
screen, the versatile GPS has a
barometric altimeter for
elevation profiling, routing
functions using pre-loaded highdefinition worldwide mapping
and a clever built-in three-axis
compass for use when standing
still or held at an angle.
BIKEBIZ.COM
Sheffiled-based Go Outdoors has
announced it will create hundreds of jobs
having secured the financial backing of The
Lloyds Banking Group.
The financial backing, worth £30 million,
will see the opening of ten new stores,
estimated to create around 500 new jobs
in the next year.
The backing also gives the company
solid ground to progress its own brand
aspirations in the form of clothing brands
North Ridge and Freedom Trail.
David Hunt, relationship director for
Lloyds Bank Corporate Markets in Sheffield,
said: “GO Outdoors has outperformed
growth forecasts year after year and we
are delighted to be able to continue
supporting its expansion plans.”
Timberland bought in
£1.2 billion deal
Shoe manufacturer Timberland has been
bought out by American retailer VF Corp,
the owner of North Face and Wrangler.
The addition of Timberland and
Smartwool brands, which has also been
bought by VF Group, is expected to boost
VF's outdoor and action sports business to
50 per cent of total revenues. Plans are
now in place to expand the brand.
SABRETOOTH GLOVES, MONTANE
The generous
four-inch
touchscreen is
glove-friendly and
readable even in
bright sunshine.
Retail price starts
at £429.99 for the
Montana 600 and
£549.99 for the
basemap-packed
Montana 650t
edition.
www.garmin.com
British company Montane has already
won an award for its new Sabretooth
Gloves despite them not having gone on
sale yet. Due to retail this autumn (as
part of Montane’s autumn/winter range),
the gloves won a Polartec European APEX
Design Award at the 2011 ceremony.
Constructed with Polartec’s Power
Shield soft shell breathable and water
repellant fabric, the Sabretooth gloves are
ideal for high exertion in cold conditions.
The close-fitting gloves feature roll tip
finger construction for improved
dexterity, a seam-free inside lower wrist
for comfort, and a brushed tricot lining
throughout for increased wicking.
www.montane.co.uk
BIKEBIZ JULY 39
PEOPLE | RECRUITMENT
Send your recruitment news to
mark.sutton@intentmedia.co.uk
Duo sale into new roles at Eurobike
i-Ride welcomes Guest to sales and customer service team Engel is back in bikes, now with Endura
EUROBIKE Eurobike has strengthened its
in-house and on-the-road team with two fresh
appointments. The first is RODNEY ROUSE,
the firm’s new sales manager for the South.
Russ Masters of Eurobike said of the
appointment: “Rod is our new man in the
south. He comes to us with a wealth of
knowledge in the cycle industry, spending the
last two years as a rep on the road for Pactimo
clothing and sports eyewear. He’s achieved first
category status on the road and riding at
national points level off-road. His experience
has helped him form good relationships with
our growing dealer base.”
Retailers in the South can now contact
Rouse on 07584 102804, or via
rodney.rouse@eurobike.uk.com
Secondly, CAROLINE HATCHMAN,
previously of Planet X, joins Eurobike.
42 BIKEBIZ JULY
Hatchman’s role at Eurobike will be varied,
covering administration, invoicing and
accounts, as well as focusing on Eurobike’s
growing dealer base from the office. Hatchman
can be contacted on 01332 774796.
Rodney Rouse
Katrin Engel
I-RIDE i-Ride has welcomed aboard JAMES
GUEST to the company’s sales and customer
service team.
Paul Butler, managing director of i-Ride, said:
“James is joining the inside sales and customer
service team where his main focus is ensuring
that we are constantly striving to meet the
needs of our stockists with regular updates on
stock, new products and working to find
solutions that keep our retailers businesses
running smoothly.”
Andy Westlake, finance director, added: “I
was impressed by James’ friendly manner and
enthusiasm to help. James joins the company
after several years of cycle retail experience
and this understanding will aid him in
providing excellent service to our customers.”
ENDURA KATRIN ENGEL is back in the
bike trade following a brief stint within the
public relations department of a European
running shoe manufacturer. Having previously
worked with apparel brand Sugoi, Engel is a
familiar face within the bike business, part of
the reason Endura has appointed her as its
marketing coordinator.
Based at the company’s headquarters in
Livingston, West Lothian, Engel will coordinate
Endura’s marketing activities across the UK.
The native German will be in charge of PR,
advertising and events organisation from a
public relations perspective.
BIKEBIZ.COM
BIKEBIZ.COM
BIKEBIZ JULY 43
RETAIL ONLY
The trade’s guide to sourcing stock, up-and-coming IBDs and the very latest products
RETAIL
COMMENT
FEW IN THIS business will be able to recount their early days
of riding without telling stories of busting skids through piles
of leaves, or seeing how far they could jump a bike from the
kerb outside their home. Even today, many of us will still race
top speed toward a shallow ford just because a little bit of
that inner child still lives on the inside.
I read with interest this month the Charge Bikes catalogue
editorial pieces on the brand’s roster of sponsored riders.
Nearly every rider within stated their roots stem from jump
bikes, BMX, any bike on which they could get away with
grabbing a bit of air without bending the forks into a position
resembling a beach cruiser. And look where they are now –
“BMX is a catalyst for many things. A
bloomin’ good childhood and the
conversion into future cyclists...”
cyclists of all kinds, embracing and creating styles of riding
both fresh and established.
The content revived some fond memories, yet
simultaneously brought about the damning reality that there
will come a time when I’m simply too old to ‘grab some air’.
It is then that I will have to concede that I’ve made that
transition from BMX rider to cross country geek, or road
cyclist. Whether I care to admit it or not, it’s happening
already and I’m stuggling to know how to feel. On the one
hand I’m sad that, because of creaky knees and weakened
ankles, gravity seems to be pulling harder with each jump.
On the flipside, cycling has a hell of a lot of alternatives to
offer and in one form or another i’ll always be excited to try
a new bike, test a new bit of kit and ultimately build a
collection of rigs to further clog my garage.
With BMX in focus in this issue it seems fitting to
promote this sector with all the energy that gets me ‘stoked’
to leave my desk bang on 6pm each day, just so I can get
out there and stick my middle finger up at gravity just a few
more times. Why? Because I’m biased towards it? Well, yes
and no. This sector animates me for many reasons. Dig
beneath the surface, past the “have you seen the triple
backflip?” and debates about 20-inch heroes from eras gone
by and it all comes down to the notion that BMX is a
catalyst for many things.
First off, it’s a guarantee of a bloomin’ good, trouble-free
childhood, tooth separating and tail bone breaking aside. But
most of all, it’s a stepping stone into the vibrant world of
cycling. And that’s where this article finally reaches ‘the
point’. Whether or not BMX is to hit dizzying heights only to
all but dissapear again is up for debate, but for the time being
these customers must be embraced. They are the future of
this business. Future cyclists, in one form or another.
Mark.Sutton@intentmedia.co.uk
IN THIS MONTH’S ISSUE
DEALER PROFILE
46
Mystery Shopper’s first top marks rated bicycle store Red
Planet Bikes talks about the key to successful business...
BICYCLE MOTOCROSS
49
You’ve read the nostalgic soppyness above, now back to
business. Who sells what in this sector? See 49 for answers...
LUGGAGE SOLUTIONS
57
Another sector guide geared toward the retailer selling
bundles of panniers, racks, backpacks and more...
IBD | PROFILE
Red Planet Bikes
Red hot wheelie poppers
Telephone: 01793 522 211
Email: sales@redplanetbikes.co.uk
Website: www.redplanetbikes.co.uk
Address: 7 Wood Street,
Old Town, Swindon,
Wilts, SN1 4AN
Following an intriguing mystery shopper visit to Red Planet, BikeBiz couldn’t resist finding out more
about this star performer, it’s famous coffee and fondness of UK bike brands. Mark Sutton discusses biz
with store co-owner Ivor Read…
Tell us a bit about your background in the
bike trade:
Well there came a time when we realised we
were pretty much in the bike business. Apart
from our day jobs, you’d find us running pits for
teams at the 24-hour races, guiding, manning
stands at the London Bike show, all sorts. Plus,
my partner and myself were both professional
managers with all the management and
financial training behind us and that’s how Red
Planet began.
When BikeBiz visited it was clear that staff
were enthusiasts – why do you feel it
important to have keen cyclists representing
the business?
We are a shop that targets the enthusiast. You
can only sell product to those guys and girls if
you ride, understand and talk their language.
We need to have used the product ourselves so
we can relate its use to a customer’s riding
styles.
BikeBiz also got the impression that you’re a
big fan of homegrown bike manufacturers –
why is this?
They are more fun. From a business perspective
rare and oddball stuff pulls people in just to
look.
For riding, and hence selling, they are more
interesting. The smaller, rider driven companies,
make bikes with character, once you have
started a conversation with a customer you can
explain how and why that is. They are then
more tied in to you and hopefully looking for a
46 BIKEBIZ JULY
more unique product that’s hard to find cheap
in a chain store.
What trends if any have you seen emerge
over the past years?
Well we have seen the emergence and then
dominance of carbon road bikes. Now we are
seeing a move back to custom builds, especially
Titanium. It’s like people are reacting against
the ubiquitous carbon bike, but obviously want
the performance still.
Mountain biking is full of trends and niches,
but the biggest change is from the old style
xc/trailquest rider to the trail park rider. Loads
of people rarely seem to mountainbike outside
of the manmade stuff now.
Do you foresee the 29-inch wheel becoming
a strong seller in the UK?
For the first time we’d say yes. We have sold
more real off road 29ers in the last eight
months than in the four years preceding them
added together, plus half the staff purchases in
the last year have been 29-inch.
You can offer custom bike fitting – why is
this service important for your clientele?
Proper bike fit is essential to getting a perfect
road bike. A set of bike fit diagrams is the single
best way customers can make informed
decisions about what bikes are right for them
and their desired use. With this information
they don’t just have to blindly believe our sales
representative when we tell them which bikes
will work for them.
Red Planet has sold
“more 29ers in the
last eight months
than the preceding
four years.”
How involved is the shop with the local
cycling scene? Attend or run any events?
All the time, we compete in a lot of local
events (alright not from the front of the field)
unless we are marshalling them. You will see our
van all over the south in event car parks.
How much do the following affect how well
the business performs:
Cycle to work business: This is a useful base
line income and it does get some people into
becoming regular cyclists.
The Workshop: It’s where we build our
reputation, by the quality and depth of
knowledge, but not where we make our money.
Finance support: This is more important to the
chains and discount guys, I feel. A lot of our
customers already know how much to expect
to spend and where the money is coming from.
Are there any things that are causing the
business concern at present?
This year the changes to the Cycle To Work buy
back have made things complicated. Of course,
a long wet summer would be much worse.
Perhaps the lack of 29-inch tyres at our
supplier’s warehouses needs flagging up too.
What sets Red Planet apart from the local
competition?
Our coffee, oh... and that and we spend time
with customers.
What are your aspirations for Red Planet?
To have fun, ride nice bikes and not starve!
BIKEBIZ.COM
BIKEBIZ.COM
BIKEBIZ JULY 47
48 BIKEBIZ JULY
BIKEBIZ.COM
SECTOR GUIDE | BMX
Attention,
Bicycle
Moto-shops
BMX is expanding at a rapid rate, with the
majority of specialists within the sector
upping their orders from factory sources
each and every year. Mark Sutton calls
around the distributors to find out how
retailers can benefit from stocking 20-inch
specific goods…
Deluxe BMX
AVAILABLE FOR pre-order now, Deluxe
has two new signature frames coming
designed in collaboration with trails
rippers Max Bimar and Mark Potoczny.
The former, Bimar's frame, will be
made in three sizes – 21.3, 21 and 20.7
top tube – with a nice planted 74
degree head angle and 8.6-inch
standover height making it perfect for
trails. The brake lugs are welded
on this model.
Secondly,
Potoczny's
Ison
ISON HAS a strong range of BMX
brands, including complete bikes from
KHE. These generously specced bikes
offer good value at all price levels,
including signature lines from
professional rider Daniel Dhers.
Prices start at £269.99 for a 23/9
geared build dubbed the
Root 180. KHE also
has just about every
BMX part
needed
frame offers a slightly longer top tube,
reaching 21.5-inches, 21 and 20.7. The
frame, dubbed the Sacre Bleu, has
removable brake mounts, a mid bottom
bracket and angle-capped rear stays.
Deluxe BMX now deals directly with
the trade and can be contacted on
mark@deluxebmx.com or via 05602
796039.
for component upgrades, included its
ground-breaking superlight folding tyres
and freecoaster hubs.
Gusset is another brand that has
BMX-specific stems, forks, grips, pedals,
saddles and much more in the range.
The brand new Woodstock cranks
feature a bossless design and are
manufactured from Reynolds 853 tubing
making them superlight, yet very strong.
The bossless design means that they fit
directly onto the axle splines, the
Woodstock compatible chainrings and
spiders are also available.
Protective gear brand TSG covers any
protective gear needs, while Ison also
supplies Dia Compe brakes, as well as
ODI, which has arguably the most
popular grip on the market.
01353 662662
Seventies
BICYCLE MOTOCROSS goliath
Seventies has perhaps the largest BMX
exclusive catalogue of any distributor in
the UK, importing brands such as Kink,
Cult, DUB, Macneil and Subrosa, among
many others, as well as designing its
own Federal brand in house.
With lower-end BMX bikes constantly
striving to achieve better value for
money, Kink's line has been revamped to
include lightweight Spanish style
bottom brackets on all but the very
cheapest in its extensive catalogue. With
a shipment due later this month and a
further batch due before the Christmas
rush, dealers are encouraged to get
orders in early to avoid disappointment
on all Seventies’ sought after complete
bike brands.
As one of the best selling forks on the
market at present, dealers stocking
BMX in depth should take a
look at Federal's new Drop
fork, retailing at
£119.99. Based
around the classic
offset and length of
the 20/20 fork, it also
retains the same
Celebrating its 10th year, the UK’s leading
Cycle Show heads to NEC, Birmingham
on 29 Sep - 2 October 2011.
BIKEBIZ.COM
material and
heat treatment spec, however the
shape of the dropout and the bottom
of the fork leg have both been
redesigned to create a stronger and
cleaner looking junction with better
clearance.
Robbie Morales' Cult brand is found
under the Seventies umbrella and since
its first shipments into the UK over a
year ago, the brand has been a favourite
with skate park and street riders alike.
For those really committing to BMX
product, the Cult brand's soft goods line
is emerging as a favourite too. The new
Snapback hat is a one size fits all,
embroided flat peak, a style which is
trending in the sector at present. These
retail for £24.99.
Seventies will repeat its 30,000 plus
catalogue print run this year, plus take a
stand at the Cycle Show to be held at the
NEC, pushing each of the complete bike
brands under its
banner throughout.
0845 3103670
>>>
Register for your FREE trade pass at
www.cycleshow.co.uk/register
for more information’
BIKEBIZ JULY 49
SECTOR GUIDE | BMX
>>>
Madison
Raleigh
BELL'S LINK up with
Californian artist
Jimbo Phillips
continues to give
Bell a unique design
edge over
competition. The
collaboration has
brought the artist's
iconic screaming hand
drawings and more from the skate
scene and plastered it, among other
designs, over a selection of helmets in
the Bell line.
The BMX-suited Faction lid is just
one to receive Jimbo's artwork. The12vent lid is ridden by a number of toplevel riders. A high impact ABS shell
offers great protection in the event of a
slam, though it's not a particularly
NEW THIS year from Diamondback,
aside from the new bike line, is an
innovative range of products made
using UV reactant dyes allowing the
products to change colour
under sunlight.
“These parts are great
for younger riders. It
allows a new level of
customisation. I’ve made
sure the highest level of
quality has been achieved
before I opted to use the
UV technology. Riders can
trust that the product
works, regardless of the
colour changing,” says
Diamondback product
manager Andy Parker.
heavy unit at just 426 grams. The lid
meets CE EN178 and ASTM 1492 safety
regulations.
The package comes with
customisable plush internal padding and
adjustable straps meaning the rider can
achieve a comfortable, yet secure fit.
0208 385 3385
Split Second
Imports
CARRYING four complete bike brands
for BMX, two of which are designed in
house, Split Second Imports has all
budgets and spec levels covered.
For the entry-level to intermediate
customer, Split Second's own UK
designed brands Ruption and Blank
cover price points from £199.99
through £399.99, while the
intermediate to high-end brands,
Eastern and Stolen sell from £259.99
right through the other side of £700.
Shiner
DISTRIBUTORS FOR Duo, Redline, SE
Bikes, Swobo and Verde have plenty to
offer the retailer interested in stocking
20-inch bikes.
Verde has made a big impact on the
UK BMX business, despite being a
relatively new company to the UK.
Having just won Ride to Glory, the
brand's name is bigger than ever. The
line spans entry-level, through to more
professional suited
builds. Beginning
with the Cadet,
dealers will find
25/9 gearing at the
lowest price point.
Combining a
number of
components from
respected brands
such as Odyssey
(cranks) and Cinema
(rims), Verde's range
UV Reactant technology is available
on saddles, grips and pedals in four
colour variations. All products, including
complete bikes, are in stock with
Raleigh now.
01773 532600
Whilst Ruption and Blank do offer a
couple of beginner models, such as the
Frank and Force, with large sprockets
and one-piece cranks, it is really the
micro-geared 25/9T models that are
where the interest lies for all retailers of
BMX. As such, for the 2012 ranges, both
Blank and Ruption will be offering 25/9geared models with a one-piece crank
to help bring the price down.
Pro-Tec's helmet line can also be
found under the Split Second banner.
The firm has also recently taken delivery
of a one-off helmet collaboration
between Pro-Tec and Odyssey, carrying
a very retro 80s design.
01934 743888
topping Luxe is designed trendy, with
tanwall tyres standing out against an all
black backdrop. AT this price point the
frame is built from 100 per cent
chromoly and carries an investment
cast, integrated head tube.
Made in the USA by grip specialist
ODI, Duo's Corey Martinez's signature
grips are medium thickness throughout
with a reduced size flange. Bar ends are
supplied with this model.
0117 955 6035
Coyote Sports
COYOTE SPORTS exclusively distributes
the Skyway brand, famed for its BMX
parts and accessories line.
The 80’s brand is still going strong
and the range is expanding on a
constant basis. The wheel line consists
of the notorious Skyway Tuff II mag
wheels, coloured coded BMX Grips,
locking grips and brake pads.
Coyote also stocks Skyway saddles
and again, keeping to the 80’s retro style,
has brought about the re-introduction of
the EZ and EZ Pro handlebars.
With new colours of Tuff II mags,
matching grips and brake pads arriving
with the distributor soon, the range will
expand to include lavender and, later
this year, red. To view the product
portfolio visit www.coyote-sports.com,
or contact the sales team on
0161 727 8508.
>>>
BIKEBIZ.COM
BIKEBIZ JULY 51
SECTOR GUIDE | BMX
>>>
Upgrade Bikes
DMR PEDALS are widely thought of as
some of the best across all jump
sectors, including BMX. Available in
multiple colours, sealed and unsealed
and with replaceable pins, there's a
pedal for everyone.
Though it’s the new Vault pedals that
are causing a storm in the mountain
bike world, the
V8 and V12
models remain
favourites in
the BMX
market.
Starting at
£27.99, the V8s
are both
affordable and
durable.
Further
crossover
between DMR's
jump product and BMX can be seen
with the brand's seat posts. Offering
both a pivotal and a railed design, the
brand caters for all. At £2.99, the CNC
machines Tilt post is again, very
affordable and comes in six bright
colours. What's more, buyers get an
internal fluted post, which is both
strong and lightweight.
01403 711 611
2pure
INEVITABLY WHAT goes up must come
down and within BMX, what comes
down often comes down hard. That's
why Lizard Skins has an extensive line of
protective gear ranging from £19.99
guards for children, to £49.99 softcell
knee and shin combination guards. Two
sizes are available for all adult guards –
small to medium and large to extra
large.
Moore Large
CARRYING PERHAPS the most
established BMX brand in the world,
Moore Large imports Haro's catalogue,
as well as it's sister brand Premium
Products, which itself now sells
complete bikes.
Changes have been made throughout
to the spec, colours and graphics, with
further tweaks made to the catalogue
with the addition and removal of a few
models due to the market demand.
For 2012 there will be a new range
called "350 Series". This slots in between
the 300 and 400 series and covers
popular retail price points
around £369 to £399.
Premium
Products
this
year has
three
new
models
– the
52 BIKEBIZ JULY
Inception, Spire and lower-priced
brakeless build, the Subway. Chrome
bars and fatter tyres feature in keeping
with current trends.
Moore Large also stock Savage - a
comprehensive range of affordable,
colourful BMX components. New
additions to the growing range are BMX
bars, nylon pegs, grips, end plugs, stems,
pivotal saddles and seatposts,
chainwheels and valve caps.
01332 274200
Fisher Outdoors
SUPPORTER OF the Stay Strong
foundation, Fisher Outdoors is
increasingly involved with BMX and
this year has a strong line of
protective gear on sale from Troy Lee
Designs.
Being the protection brand of
choice for Olympic BMX rider Shanaze
Reade, Troy Lee has a loyal following of
consumers. The range includes the
popular Lopes and T-Bone Knee Guards.
The Lopes was designed with nine times
NORBA champion Brian Lopes with a
unique two-piece inner neoprene sleeve
and polycarbonate guard. Retail price for
this protective unit is £79.99.
If it's knee guards your customer is
seeking, take a look at the T-Bone
guards from Troy Lee. These are
designed to be flexible and comfortable
with breathability and streamline fit. A
set will cost £54.99 at retail.
Full details can be found at
www.fisherb2b.co.uk, or alternatively by
contacting your territory account
manager.
01727 798345
The brand's knee and shin guards are
designed with clever anti-slip features
to hold them firmly to the rider's legs.
Ventilation features too, while multiple
Velcro straps allow the user to adjust
the padding to the contours of their
shape.
Elbow guards featuring many of the
same design ideas, including a moisture
wicking mesh lining, are also available
from 2pure and come priced at £36.99
retail.
0844 811 2001
IMG
Distribution
IMG IS THE UK representative of a
number of BMX brands, including
perhaps the most widely stocked, the
comprehensive Odyssey catalogue.
Retailers have access to brands such as
Ilegal, Sunday, Season, G-sport, Fly Bikes
and in-house designed Proper.
Having just released its debut DVD,
the Proper team is more in focus than
ever, trending both here in the UK and
in many territories abroad. With most
component areas covered by the brand,
including accessories such as hub guards
tailored to its own hubs, retailers
wouldn't go wrong in carrying this line
in its entirety. Expect multiple colours
and well thought out design throughout.
Odyssey's convertible post (pictured)
is compatible with all Pivotal style seats
and includes hardware for mounting
railed seats. The removable post guts
can also be used to install railed seats
on integrated Pivotal frames.
0845 8725446
BIKEBIZ.COM
PRODUCTS | NEW RELEASES
New gear
Tales from the Tour, stylish luxury leather saddles and
fresh new nutrition designed to put a kick in cyclists’
performance make our round-up
NeilPryde Alize SL seat post
Direct via NeilPryde
020 7193 6438
Charge X Bill Amberg saddles
Cycling Sports Group UK
01202 732288
How I Won the Yellow Jersey
Random House
0207 840 8400
TO SIT WITH the Alize frame, NeilPryde has
introduced an ‘Alize’ seatpost with an adjustable 78degree angle, meaning the brand’s customers can
now achieve a full triathlon or time trial specific bike
from one brand.
Utilising Ritchey’s saddle clamp on monorail
design, the post itself measures 350mm for a longer
post and 320mm for a short. The Alize tips the
scales at 0.24kg for the longer version.
20 per cent discounts are offered on pre-orders
placed before early July. Representative of the brand,
Scott Purchas, is contactable on 020 7193 6438.
CONTINUING ITS quest to be the most stylish brand
around, Charge Bikes has linked with luxury leather
tailor Bill Amberg for a limited run of stylish saddles.
Charge Bikes owner Nick Larsen told BikeBiz at the
recent 2012 bike launch: “We noticed Amberg had
done some stylish saddles for Half Pipe Bikes. Having
seen the stunning results we got onto Bill about
doing some leather Charge saddles. They’ll cost £40
when they land mid-July. The saddle is designed as a
cross-breed between our Spoon and Bucket saddles.
There’s some of Bill’s signature touches on there,
such as the lattice style backing.”
NED BOULTING recounts his experiences covering
the world's premier two-wheeled race. Offering an
insider's view of reporting on the Tour, including what
it's like to confront Cavendish, Wiggins, Armstrong et
al seconds after they cross the finish line.
Boulting was awarded the Royal Television
Society's Sports Reporter of the Year award in 2006
for his role in covering cycling. Since then he has
presented two Tour of Britain races, as well as having
reported from the Tour de France eight times. The
book retails for £12.99 and is available to trade
accounts via The Random House Group.
Polaris footwear
Polaris
01246 240218
Answer racing product
Pure Bicycle Company
01582882919
Kinetica Energy
Direct
02031 708591
AFTER NEARLY a year of designing and planning,
Polaris’ new range of shoes has arrived. The line-up
includes six models, five of which are available now.
The Bojo shoe is the brand’s take on an urban
shoe. Designed to be subtle yet functional, it can be
worn all day, both on or off the bike. Sportive riders
and road racers are catered for with Flash and
Ignition. The Equilibrium shoe is aimed at the tri
market, featuring large mesh vents and a simple
single strap closure. The Splinter trail shoe is aimed at
MTBers and incorporates a tough trail-ready Vibram
sole. Vibram will also feature on the Shredder boot.
ANSWER’S BMX racing goods are now available
exclusively via upstart distributor Pure Bicycle
Company. (More on that on page 6)
The Dagger fork is key to the new line, being “one
of the main forks” for serious racers, as well as one of
the only race forks to have full carbon legs and an
aluminium steerer.
Sold in pairs, Answer’s wheels are also available
from Pure. Once again, these are top-end bits of kit,
hosting a titanium driver and Japanese performance
bearings. A pair of Answer’s wheels weigh in at a
mere 2.4 pounds.
SPORTS NUTRITION brand Kinetica has added both
Tri Carb Sticks and energy gels to its line-up.
Designed to replenish essential carbohydrates and
aid muscle recovery, sports nutritionist Matt Lovell,
alongside Kinetica scientists, has created solutions
tailored to the endurance athlete.
Kinetica Tri Carb Sticks come in powder form and
contain natural sea salts for hydration, as well as B
vitamins, Fenugreek fibre and bitter melon extract to
help regulate blood sugar levels. For on-the-move
boosts, the energy gels replenish and, again, keep
hydration levels up thanks to clever ingredients.
54 BIKEBIZ JULY
BIKEBIZ.COM
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BIKEBIZ JULY 55
56 BIKEBIZ JULY
BIKEBIZ.COM
SECTOR GUIDE | LUGGAGE
Zyro
ABUS’ 20 litre office bag comes
with a LED light and a pre-defined
shape (using foam stabiliser) to
bring an end to squashed
sandwiches. With reflective piping
and durable, waterproof fabrics, this
ideal-for-commuter bag has a
padded lock or laptop compartment
and retails at £109.99.
Altura has a wealth of load carrying
solutions. Built-for-the-UK Arran and
Dryline are bestsellers, says Zyro, the
former traditional sewn panniers and
the latter waterproof lined. The new
Fuse and Arc welded panniers have been
hugely popular too, bringing tough and
lightweight waterproof welded
construction. Night Vision’s waterproof
panniers, rackpack and post pack are hivis for commuters, while the Metro and
Urban briefcases provide a less cyclist
SKS
Baggage
handling
look.
Speed
seatpacks cater for riders carrying the
bare minimum in a range of sizes and
colours. All Altura luggage uses high
standard Rixen Kaul hardware for long life.
Zefal and Dahon luggage is also
found under the Zyro banner.
Zyro: 01845 521 700
Whether it’s transporting a tool kit, laptop,
groceries or even a bike, there’s a cycle luggage
option available. Jonathon Harker packs his
own bags and profiles the market’s latest gear...
Chicken
Cyclekit
COMING IN Three sizes, the RaceBag
mounts tool-free and features a bayonet
catch, reflective piping, loop for the rear
light, neoprene compartment for multi
tool inside and is constructed with
water-resistant material.
Like the RaceBag, the TourBag is also
mounted tool-free. Available in two
sizes, the TourBag has a quick-release
powerstrap fastening system and also
features reflective piping, a loop for the
rear light, space for multitool and is
water-resistant constructed. TourBag
retails at £23.99 for the 1.4 lt (large)
and £25.99 for the 1.4+0.6 lt (XL). The
RaceBag range starts at £16.99 for the
XS (0.5 ltr) up to the M at £19.99 (0.8 +
0.2 ltr).
SKS products are available via Chicken
Cyclekit, Madison and Raleigh, whose
details are all listed on this page.
SWITZERLAND’S Pletscher
offers a particularly city
bike-oriented range of
luggage and racks. The
‘quickfit’ rack system allows
the speedy fitment and
removal of bags, baskets
and seats. Beautifully
engineered in anodised
alloy, the racks and
accessories offer a
distinctive alternative for
urban customers. Contact
the sales office 01525
381347, or
www.chickenb2b.co.uk for
more details on the range.
Madison
Raleigh
AVENIR’S lined rear panniers come
as a pair as standard, with a host
of features, including a waterproof
inner lining designed to keep
belongings dry and safe.
Constructed with highly durable
nylon fabric, the panniers use the
Rixen Kaul Klickfix fitting system
(try saying that fast) which has a
great reputation in the world of
luggage. Reflective piping, internal
organiser and a shoulder strap all
come as standard and the integrated
weather ski keeps the base of the
bag off the ground when not in use,
reducing wear and tear. Avenir’s wide
range is available through Raleigh.
Raleigh 0800 096 9060
PACIFIC Outdoor’s Super Pannier is a
super-sized rear touring pannier with a
handy floating lid for oversized
loads. Stored under the floating
lid is a innovative deployable
mesh pocket so riders can dry
wet garments while they ride.
The 3D zippered pocket is built
with drains as is the rear blister
pocket that holds fuel bottles
or other items not wanted in
with the rest of the cyclists’ gear.
With an angled cut for heal
clearance, the Super Pannier
sports the same easy on/off Rixon
and Kaul rack attachment hardware as
Pacific’s other panniers. Sold as a set
that includes a left and a right, the
Super Pannier holds 66 litres.
Madison: 0870 034 7226
Celebrating its 10th year, the UK’s leading
Cycle Show heads to NEC, Birmingham
on 29 Sep - 2 October 2011.
BIKEBIZ.COM
>>>
Register for your FREE trade pass at
www.cycleshow.co.uk/register
for more information’
BIKEBIZ JULY 57
SECTOR GUIDE | LUGGAGE
>>>
Greyville
C3 Products
RIXEN KAUL is one of the goto companies in the luggage
business, with many of the
entries on this page using its
tech. The firm’s own luggage
line includes the Delux Mesh
Basket, a deep, fine-mesh
basket with an integrated
mount designed for fitting a
front light. It also sports a
handle and rear adapter plate for easy
use with the KlickFit KF850 handlebar.
Weighing a mere 1,000g, the basket
has a maximum 7kg load, and a 22-litre
BIKND HELIUM is a piece of luggage
designed to transport bikes in.
Innovatively, and probably uniquely, it
uses helium filled air bladders that sit
either side of the bike for maximum
protection. Making
transit and storage
easier, the bladders
deflate easily so the
bag can be folded up
when not in use. The
bag can carry two wheel
sets, perfect for competing
cyclists, enabling them to take a race
Polaris
POLARIS’S new range
of fully waterproof
luggage – branded
‘Aqua Nought’ – will
be available at retail
from August. The lineup features roll top
waterproof closures,
lazer-cut high
frequency welded
seams and reflective
detailing. Aqua
Nought products are
manufactured from
i-ride
THE
YAMASKA
pannier range
is a favourite
with tourers and
renowned for
durability. The
450Kf rear pannier
set has reflectors
and practical
compartments. Plastic clips are
included for storage of extra luggage on
top and pedaling is not affected by the
panniers due to the sloped shape of the
Moore Large
FEW WILL have passed through Moore
Large’s last house show without noting
the new Expider luggage gear.
Integrated LEDs are a big part of
Expider’s unique selling points, weaving
the lights into backpacks, saddlebags
and other luggage.
Look out for the brand’s two-litre
bladder backpack with integrated light.
Moore Large predicts this will be a top
seller thanks to its value for money
credentials.
Moore Large also distributes the
Knog and in-house designed Outeredge
58 BIKEBIZ JULY
storage capacity. The Mesh Basket
retails at £19.95.
Greyville: 01543 251328
(sales@greyville.com)
a durable nylon and
aqua3 coated fabrics
and the range covers
three styles of bags;
a 20-litre courier
bag, a 30-litre back
pack with an
adjustable back
support and a 40litre travel holdall
with an internal
dry bag. All bags
are available in
fluro yellow, black
and matt grey.
www.polarisbikewear.co.uk
bags. Coming
complete with a LED
light unit and rain
covers, the bag offers
good value for
£134.99.
Cordo's rugged
Reply Pannier set is
designed to be simple
and effective. Spacious,
very sturdy and made of
canvas with a trendy look,
the strong waterproof
product has adjustable quick
release fasteners and a 28lt capacity, all
for £59.99 inc VAT.
www.i-ride.co.uk
catalogues, both of which have a
diverse range of luggage goods.
01332 274200
Wildoo
FOR YEARS Pletscher has built its
carriers using a unique die-cast
aluminium top desk. The construction
method is far stronger than the
competition, says Pletscher, and forms
the basis for the Easy-Fix luggage
integration system.
Pletscher Easy-Fix carriers are as
standard equipment for many brands,
including Pashley, and are also available
as an aftermarket upgrade. With an
Easy-Fix carrier on a bike there are a
wide range of accessories that can
quickly be clicked on or off are available
Upgrade
LEZYNE’S TRUNK Caddy
is a clever product with
zip-out side panniers for
when the rider needs
that extra carrying
capacity. The padded
interior comes with
organisational dividers –
including for cycle tools
– while the water
resistant bottom keeps the
contents dry.
The Lezyne Rack Caddy
(£42.99) is a single pannier,
again with handy organisation, this time
with bottom and top compartments
Rapha
RAPHA has a new luggage collection
promising to blend luxury with
functionality. The revamped line-up
includes a reworked Race Bag, updated
Rapha Backpack, new Should Bags, a
Tote and Wash Bag.
All are constructed from hardwearing
and water resistant black Cordura, and as
you’d expect with the brand, have a
strong visual identity with a contrast
white, leather stripe on the outside.
www.rapha.cc
set and training/spare set of wheels. If
you’re not convinced it’s worth noting
Biknd is technical sponsor to the
Garmin/Cervelo and Radioshack
pro tour teams. The bag retails for £425.
www.c3products.com
to buy including baskets, rack bags,
boxes and child seats. Pletscher is
distributed by Chicken and Wildoo
www.wildoo.co.uk
separate from the main
pocket.
Also up from the
brand is the Messenger
Caddy (84.99). Featuring
durable construction
from polyester and PVC
fabrics, the caddy
includes a high vis main
logo, straps and lighting
loop. A padded and
breathable shoulder
strap, custom alloy
buckle with integrated
bottle opener and a
separated document
sleeve within are some of
the other features includes.
01403 711 611
Hesling
Products
Hesling offers a wide range of product to
the trade, including luggage as well as
casual clothing and serious rainwear for
wet weather. The luggage range caters
for a wide range of ages and uses,
whether it’s for riding to school,
commuting, leisure riding or serious
touring. Hesling is distributed via Coyote
Sports 0161 7278508 and The Cycle
Division 01484 456137.
BIKEBIZ.COM
SECTOR GUIDE | FORKS, GEARS, CHAINS AND BRAKES
l
a
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e
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a
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e
P
In a mind-bending collection of components, we
list a selection of forks, gears, chains and brakes
currently available to bike retailers, all in the one
feature. Jonathon Harker shifts up a gear...
Chicken
Cyclekit
Both the Columbus and Deda fork
ranges are distributed by Chicken
Cyclekit. Columbus is Italian-designed,
offering a complete range of carbon
forks, with a selection of more niche
requirements with one-inch models and
CX models available.
Deda carbon forks are a recent
addition to the Chicken, proving popular
already. A full range also includes the
option for RAW unpainted models.
Chicken’s B2B site
(www.chickenb2b.co.uk) already has the
Greyville
Fox
The Axon is SR Suntours top of the
range line of XC forks. Starting from
£275.95 retail price there is a choice of
different models to suit differing rider
needs. New models include the Axon
Werx series and a new top-of-therange Axon RC ELD, which uses a
carbon and magnesium hybrid lower
leg resulting in a much lighter fork. This
air-sprung fork also has a remote
electronic lockout meaning the fork can
be made rigid or active in just 0.65
seconds. Weighing in at an impressive
1,500g the Axon RC ELD also uses
Suntour’s own 15mm Q LOC axle for
increased stiffness. The Axon range of
forks is available with standard 9mm
dropouts, or with a 15mm axle and a
choice of 1 1/8” or a tapered steerer
tube.
Team BH Suntour has been using the
Axon fork on the front of its bikes since
the start of the season, with Julie
Bresset taking the top spot at the last
two world cup races at Dalby Forest
and Offenburg. Retail prices start from
£275.95. Greyville can be contacted on
01543 251328 or
sales@greyville.com.
Available in the UK from July, the 2012
Fox Racing Shox line-up offers a
compelling comprehensive range of
mountain bike suspension. The brand
has set its sights high with the
introduction of the Float TI. With a onepiece titanium crown/steerer 90 grams
has been shaved off the weight, while
the same stiffness as Fox’s existing two
piece aluminium crown and steerer has
been maintained.
The 2012 range also sees the
introduction of Kashima Coat to its rear
shocks. Exclusive to Fox Racing Shox,
Kashima’s distinctive gold colour is
backed by its performance attributes of
exceptionally smooth feel and extreme
durability.
Fox Racing Shox is distributed by
Mojo Suspension.
Fox: 01633 615815
full range of Campagnolo 2012
components available for pre-order.
Some stock will arrive before the
Campagnolo August holidays, including
a new range of wheels, groupsets and
Triathlon/TT product. Included in the
vastly expanded Tri range are 10x and
11x bar end shifters in carbon and alloy.
To compliment these, a linear pull and
centre pull brake caliper will be offered
for the first time and also an aero brake
lever model.
Please contact the sales office on
01525 381347 to ensure you receive
stock from the first 2012 deliveries to
Chicken Cyclekit.
01525 381347
Celebrating its 10th year, the UK’s leading
Cycle Show heads to NEC, Birmingham
on 29 Sep - 2 October 2011.
60 BIKEBIZ JULY
Register for your FREE trade pass at
www.cycleshow.co.uk/register
for more information’
BIKEBIZ.COM
SECTOR GUIDE | FORKS, GEARS, CHAINS AND BRAKES
Kool-Stop
Kool-Stop has expanded its popular
series of vintage brake pads. In addition
to the Campagnolo Nuovo Record and
the Mafac replacement pads they now
have the Rod Insert Rounded Philips
available. These come two pair in a bag
(salmon or black).
Ison
Distribution
The best-selling Society Forks range is
still going strong with great performing
dirt jump forks at reasonable prices, Ison
tells BikeBiz.
The distributor also carries forks for
road, MTB and BMX from brands such
as Surly, Salsa, Genetic, KHE, Gusset, AllCity and White Brothers.
Gear-wise Ison has the Rohloff
Raleigh
Quad Technology’s new brake systems
aim to offer better spec for the money.
What that means is that the new ‘Nano’
system is available in black/red or
white/gold colour options, offering high
performance hydraulic braking for
£59.99 per unit. The price includes a fully
bled calliper, lever, hose, rotor, bolts and
adaptor.
The next step up of £20 per brake
(taking it to £79.99) is the all-new Nano
Lite. This is a lightweight version of the
Nano with super light XC rotor, tool-free
Zyro
Ashima’s PCB is the world’s first
pistonless hydraulic brake. By
simplifying the calliper and removing
the pistons the PCB is light, efficient,
economic, low profile and almost
maintenance free, says Zyro.
The 2011 version has performance
upgrades and is available at £129.99
(front and rear sold separately). Over to
replacement pads, Ashima’s RPMX/PROG (for Shimano) retails at £12.99 and
uses a plastic fitting on a traditional
rubber pad for a superior fit between
pad and holder. RPMX pads are light,
stiff, safe and easy to fit too. The allnew Pro-G Advanced rubber compound
performs up to 70 per cent better under
heavy braking than standard rubber
compounds, says Ashima, The plastic
moulded Pro-Carbon version (£14.99,
sold in pairs) offers top braking
performance on carbon rims, wet or dry.
BIKEBIZ.COM
The available colours in the wide range
of Kool-Stop pads are ever-increasing
too. Many are now available in pink,
lime green, purple and white. All KoolStop compounds are thoroughly tested
and meet or exceed CPSC, BA1 and EN
braking standards. Kool-Stop brakes are
available via Spa Cycles, Amba, Scoop
BMX and i-Ride.
internal geared hub, as well as having
Sturmey Archer, Driven and Sunrace
within its catalogue.
The Sturmey Archer Kickback hub is a
great two-speed hub for commuters as
it is internally geared so runs on a
singlespeed set-up and gear change is
by a quarter pedal backwards. Retail
price for the Kickback is £64.99.
For brakes Ison’s portfolio includes
Gusset, Genetic and Dia Compe for just
about every type of cycle, while chains
are available from Gusset, KHE and 4Jeri.
Ison: 01353 662 662
reach and bite point
adjustment and
plenty more.
The Nano
Lite has been
tested in
France and
Scotland on
downhill rigs with
standard rotors to ensure they
can put up with pretty much anything
your customer can throw at it.
Quad Technology products are
exclusively distributed by Raleigh in the
UK.
Raleigh: 0800 096 9060
Izumi chains, made in Japan, are
pitched at fixie and urban bikes. The
Japanese NJS approved Super-Tough is
the most formidable chain in the lineup, with a stunning gold and black
finish. Izumi’s standard 1/2x1/8 chains
are available in black, silver and gold at
an affordable price.
Zyro: 01845 521700
Madison
Shimano has launched the new Deore
XT. Lauded as the world’s first
MTB groupset back when the
first Deore launched 30
years ago, this next
version has been
completely revamped.
The Dyna-Sys drivetrain comes in two
varieties: double and
triple, offering riders a
choice for the option that
fits his or her style best.
The more versatile triple
version aims to provide
maximum shift smoothness and
durability. The Show rear derailleur has
been enhanced and combined with the
newest shifter design to optimise the
overall system stability. It’s more
mechanic friendly too, with angled
adjustment screws and clamp bolt.
Deore also offers advanced light action
shifting via the Rapidfire Plus shifter,
plus a host of other features.
Also up from Shimano is the
new Tiagra. Completely
re-engineered and
remastered, the
enhanced
Tiagra has a
more refined
ergonomic design
than its predecessor.
Improved levers for easier shifting and a
rear derailleur that can accommodate a
30T cog with a short cage for quicker,
crisp shifting are among the new
features.
Madison: 0870 034 7226
>>>
BIKEBIZ JULY 61
SECTOR GUIDE | FORKS, GEARS, CHAINS AND BRAKES
>>>
Hotlines
The Manitou Minute Pro fork retails at
£379.99 and provides riders with the
feel of the trail, but without the dental
work-jarring vibration. While there is
often a weight penalty in order to attain
solid steering, the Minute aims to
change all that with ultra stiff 32 mm
stanchions, MARS Air springs and an
available Hex Lock thru-axle. The
Absolute Damper offers externally
adjustable low-speed damping and
internally tuneable high-speed damping.
The Deep Bore Hollow Crown are light
weight, offering no loss in strength.
Hotlines also brings the Hayes Prime
hydraulic disc brake (£149.99) to the
trade.
Using what it describes as industryfirst technologies, it offers more power,
new components and a better ride.
Prime’s tool-free reach and contact
Upgrade
YBN’s strong value chain range includes
the Hollow Pin ten-speed chain for
£31.99. With 260 gram super-lightweight
forged hollow pins it offers precise and
quick shifting, and is compatible with all
ten-speed systems (Shimano). YBN’s Half
Link singlespeed and BMX chain (£19.99)
weighs 360 grams and is available in
1/8-inch or Narrow 3/32-inch. This
extreme heavy-duty single speed chain
comes with a joining pin included.
YBN also offers a £169.99 Ultralight
ten-speed titanium chain aimed at the
Fisher Outdoor
Leisure
adjustment, improved braking torque
and feel are among the attributes of the
Prime. In fact, the Prime is packed with
plenty more new technology, contact
Hotlines for more details on those.
Hotlines: 0131 319 1444
more weight concious riders among us.
Microshift is pitched as a credible
alternative to the main transmission
companies. Offering high quality and
great value across the range of MTB and
road components, Microshift’s catalogue
includes the new XONA ten-speed roadgroup, suitable for both double or triple
chain sets. Fully compatible with
Shimano drivetrains, cyclists can mix
and match components, whether
building up a CX bike, race bike or long
distance tourer.
The MicroShift range also includes
the Xona shifters (£199.99) and Xona
rear mech (£59.99).
i-ride
Token’s Accura brake
calipers with titanium
hardware (TK-BR730)
weighs a mere 211 grams
a pair with pads included.
Featuring CNC machined
aluminium arms,
cartridge type brake pads
and available in white,
black or red anodized, the
Accura comes for the
retail price of £255.31,
including VAT.
Visit www.iride.co.uk for more
of Token’s
extensive
components
catalogue.
01444 243000
62 BIKEBIZ JULY
Following the recent maiden win for a
29er in WC competition by a RockShoxequipped bike, Fisher now has the range
of 29er specific RockShox forks available
to order on general release. This model
is lighter than the ’09 26-inch
equivalent and available
from £649.99
The SRAM road
groupsets need no
introduction as pro level
proven components, but in
the 2011 Giro d’Italia, Alberto
Contador actually rode the entry
level SRAM Apex gearing to help
him compete in the steep, high
mountains. All group sets are now
available to your customers
directly from Fisher, from SRAM
Tektro is a significant player in the OE
and aftermarket brake market, with a
huge range of product, including the
popular R539 caliper brake (£49.99/pr).
The long reach brake set will not
interfere with frames fitted with
mudguards and has a new quick
release mechanism for larger tyres
and adjustable angle cartridge
pads. Tektro racing
products line-up also
includes the Dash
disk brake
£134.99/
wheel
(alloy).
Apex to the award winning SRAM Red.
New colours have been announced
making colour coding a bike easier than
ever, including the SRAM Red Black
(available July) and Apex White
(Available August). MTB gearing is taken
care of too with a developing 2x10
offering. SRAM X0 is available from
September in a new mirror finish X0
Silver derivative and the X9 and X7
brakes have been redesigned for 2012
to offer even greater stopping
power from a lightweight brake
set.
SRAM also offers a well-known
range of chains for all types of
bike, as well as a high quality
bulk chain for workshop use.
SRAM’s chains promise easy
maintenance and fluid shifting.
Contact your territory manager for
further details.
www.fisherb2b.co.uk
01727 798345
Upgrade
is the exclusive
supplier of the
Kinesis range of forks,
including the Kinesis
DC07 fork at £129.99.
Decade forks are also
distributed by Upgrade, such as
the UK-designed Truth steel 700c
fork costing £74.99.
X-Fusion’s MTB suspension forks
promise sensibly priced high quality
product. For more details call 01403
711 611.
Moore Large
THE MICROSHIFT brand is also
available from Moore Large, giving
bike retailers a viable, cheaper
alternative to speccing Shimano
and SRAM parts for
replacement, or upgrade jobs in
the workshop.
New to Microshift are the
Bona and Centos ten-speed
road groups:
The Bona group features hipolish and anodised/Ti coated road
levers complete with Teflon cabling,
front braze on derailleur weighing 98
grams and rear derailleur weighing 199
grams.
The Centos group features classic
polished road levers complete with
Teflon cables, front braze on derailleur
weighing 98 grams and rear derailleur
weighing 201 grams.
With both groupsets offering low
weights and performance on par with
the main brands, retailers have a real
groupset alternative in Microshift.
01332 274200
BIKEBIZ.COM
LETTERS | YOUR SAY
Mail to:
Saxon House, 6A St. Andrews Street,
Hertford, Hertfordshire SG14 1JA
Email:
Jonathon.Harker@
intentmedia.co.uk
SPONSORED BY
BikeBiz is keen to publish your opinions, whether they’re from
letters, emails or via BikeBiz.com...
STAR LETTER
I AM WORKING on a business plan to start a
bike shop in Gloucestershire. I've got a site in
mind and now it's very much down to
crunching the figures. I'm lacking a few crucial
bits of information though and this is where I
was hoping BikeBiz’s readership might be able
to assist with its wisdom.
The first one is going to sound ridiculous. I
have no feeling at all for the rate of sales on
bikes. I understand that's a bit like asking how
long is a piece if string, but I just need
something to go on. I'm looking at an 800 sq
foot site next door to a huge supermarket, an
NHS trust employing 800 on the doorstep
and several thousand new build homes up the
road. I'm thinking of stocking Trek from £300
to £2,000 in road, MTB, commuter and kids.
Are we talking one a week, one a day, ten on
the weekend and nothing else until next? I
just don't have anything to base a clever
estimate on.
“How many bikes do you sell
and when? Is it one a day, ten
on the weekend and nothing
else until the next?”
How do you set
up a bike shop?
Are you willing to help a fledgling cycle retailer get
off the starting blocks with a few words of sage
advice...?
Star Letter
Whether it’s a hand-written, sentthrough-the-post letter, email or a
comment made on the BikeBiz forum, the
best letter of the month wins a prize from
Oxford Products.
This month the lucky winner will receive
the F15 Fluo helmet.
64 BIKEBIZ JULY
Next up, suppliers and margins. I've read
that there's some benefit in putting most of
your eggs in one basket to show commitment
and get a decent deal in the early days, hence
the idea of a wide range of Trek and its bikes.
I'm basing my figures on a 35 per cent
margin, does that sound reasonable?
Finally, sale or return, is that an option any
suppliers even consider? I'm in wholesale at
the moment, albeit in a different sector, and I
know we pretty much won't touch it
anymore. That being the case, what's the
knack for avoiding a lot of unsold stock, but
still ensuring enough options in store? Do
suppliers let shops order in for a test ride and
send back if it's no-go? Seems unlikely.
Any help your readership could offer would
be much appreciated.
Luke Pickering
IF YOU can point Pickering in the right direction,
offer some wisdom or advice, please email
mark.sutton@intentmedia.co.uk.
The content will then be passed on him.
BIKEBIZ.COM
2pure
0844 811 2001
www.2pure.co.uk
Eurobike Ltd
01332 774796
www.eurobike.uk.com
DISTRIBUTOR
DISTRIBUTOR
Otagocyclesport
07939 543016
www.otagocyclesport.
co.uk
Seventies
0845 3103670
www.seventies.co.uk
DISTRIBUTOR
DISTRIBUTOR
Abacus Online Ltd
0151 334 8303
www.abacusonline.net
EPOS
Ascend Retail
Management System
01908 280667
www.ascendrms.com
EPOS
Fat Spanner
07966401165
www.fatspannerworld.
com
Pacific Cycles Inc
+886 34861231
www.pacific-cycles.com
DISTRIBUTOR/MANUFACTURER
MANUFACTURER/DISTRIBUTOR
Fisher Outdoor
Leisure
01727 798345
www.fisheroutdoor.co.uk
Paligap Ltd
01454 313116
www.paligapltd.co.uk
DISTRIBUTOR/IMPORTER
Hotlines Europe Ltd
0131 3191444
www.hotlines-uk.com
DISTRIBUTOR
Cube Bikes Uk Ltd
www.cube.eu
0031 180441350
DISTRIBUTOR
Custom Sports
Clothing Ltd
07580 495881
www.customsports
clothing.com
MANUFACTURER/DISTRIBUTOR
Cybertill Ltd
0800 0304432
www.cybertill.co.uk
EPOS
Cycle Division Ltd
0845 0508500
www.thecycledivision.
com
WHOLESALER/DISTRIBUTOR
The Cycle Show
0207 2886733
www.cycleshow.co.uk
EVENT/EXHIBITION ORGANISER
Digital Retail
Solutions Inc
001 8003229471
www.digitalretailer.com
EPOS
Hykeham Wholesale
Limited
01522 801550
www.hykehamwholesale.
co.uk
DISTRIBUTOR/WHOLESALER
Jungle Products Ltd
01423 780088
www.jungleproducts.co.uk
www.santacruzbikes.co.uk
DISTRIBUTOR
Lyon Equipment
01539 625493
www.lyon.co.uk
DISTRIBUTOR
Monterey Industries Ltd
0117 9509499
www.masibikes.com
www.brevm.com
DISTRIBUTOR/MANUFACTURER
Mojo suspension
Hoodoo ltd
01633 615815
www.mojo.co.uk
DISTRIBUTOR
Moore Large and Co Ltd
01332 274252
www.moorelarge.co.uk
DISTRIBUTOR
DISTRIBUTOR
SKS
+49 2333831246
www.sks-germany.com
MANUFACTURER
DISTRIBUTOR
Parklife (Havant) Ltd
02392 475895
Sonic Cycles
0207 2432848
www.soniccycles.co.uk/b2b
IMPORTER/DISTRIBUTOR
IMPORTER/DISTRIBUTOR
Pashley Cycles
01789 292263
www.pashley.co.uk
Sport Direct Ltd
0845 2693060
www.sport-direct.co.uk
MANUFACTURER/DISTRIBUTOR
DISTRIBUTOR/MANUFACTURER
Peter Dobbs
Design and
Print Services
01482 224007
Stormfront
Technology Ltd
0800 6121044
www.stormfront.co.uk
MANUFACTURER/DESIGN & PRINT
SERVICES
EPOS
DISTRIBUTOR
Bohle UK Ltd
01952 602680
www.schwalbe.co.uk
Silverfish UK Ltd
01752 843882
www.silverfish-uk.com
Qoroz
01453 889204
www.qoroz.co.uk
MANUFACTURER
Raleigh UK Ltd
01773 532600
www.raleigh.co.uk
www.cyclelife.com
DISTRIBUTOR
Red Cloud MC
01767 692831
www.redcloudmc.com
MARKETING, PR & EVENTS
Reece Cycles PLC
0121 6220180
www.reececycles.co.uk
Trek Bicycle Corporation
01908 282626
MANUFACTURER
USE Ltd
01798 344477
www.exposurelights.com
www.use1.com
MANUFACTURER/DISTRIBUTOR
Vigour Corporation
0092 524269920
www.vigourcorporation.com
MANUFACTURER/EXPORTER
Walkers Cycle
Components Ltd
0116 2833885
www.walkerscycles.co.uk
WHOLESALER/DISTRIBUTOR
DISTRIBUTOR
Saddleback Ltd
01454 285285
www.saddleback.co.uk
Zyro Ltd
01845 521700
www.zyro.co.uk
DISTRIBUTOR
DISTRIBUTOR
To order copies of BikeBiz Bible or ensure inclusion in the 2011 edition please contact
Gemma.Messina@intentmedia.co.uk
EDITORIAL PLANNER | EVENTS
Editorial Planner | August 2011
UPCOMING EVENTS
SPOTLIGHT
Bicycle lighting and reflective clothing
Mountain biking: bikes, protective clothing and
accessories
ICEBIKE* WINTER
July19th to 21st and 25th to 26th
Madison distribution centre, Milton Keynes
www.icebike.co.uk
Editorial Deadline:
July 8th
Advertising Deadline:
July 13th
To advertise call Carly Bailey on +44 (0) 1992 535647,
or email her at carly.bailey@intentmedia.co.uk
For editorial contact Jonathon Harker on +44 (0) 1992 535646,
or email him at jonathon.harker@intentmedia.co.uk
SEPTEMBER 2011
Children: Bikes, P&A Clothing and Accessories
Editorial Deadline: Aug 5th Advertising Deadline: Aug 10th
OCTOBER 2011
Road Cycling: Bikes, Gear and Accessories Cycle Show
Guide Guide to the High Street Buyers
Editorial Deadline: Sept 2nd Advertising Deadline: Sept 7th
NOVEMBER 2011
Stocking Fillers: Gifts under £20 Trailers and Trailer Bikes
Cycle Show Review
Editorial Deadline: Oct 7th Advertising Deadline: Oct 12th
July 2011
RELENTLESS NASS
Tuesday July 8th to 10th
Shepton Mallet, Somerset
www.relentlessnass.com
BIKE EXPO 2011
Tuesday July 21st to 24th
Munich, Germany
www.bike-expo.com
ICEBIKE* WINTER
July 19th to 21st and 25th to
26th
Milton Keynes
www.icebike.co.uk
DEALER CAMP 2011
Monday July 26th
Deer Valley, Utah
www.dealercamp.com
August 2011
DECEMBER 2011
P&A: Wheels, Tyres, Tubes, Pumps Retail Survey
Editorial Deadline: Nov 4th Advertising Deadline: Nov 9th
JANUARY 2012
Workshop: Cleaning and Tools
Workshop: Training
Core Bike
Editorial Deadline: TBC Advertising Deadline: TBC
FEBRUARY 2012
Commuting: Folding Bikes, Helmets, Reflectives
IceBike Guide
Fisher Outdoors Expo
Editorial Deadline: TBC Advertising Deadline: TBC
THE BIBLE
IS BACK!
66 BIKEBIZ JULY
AUSBIKE 2011
Thursday August 20th to 22nd
Exhibition Pavillion,
Melbourne Showgrounds
www.ausbike.com.au
EUROBIKE DEMO DAY
Tuesday August 30th
Argenbuhl, Germany
www.eurobike-show.de
September 2011
EUROBIKE 2011
Wednesday August 31st to
September 3rd
Friedrichshafen, Germany
www.eurobike-show.de
INTERBIKE 2011
Monday September 12th to
Friday September 16th
Las Vegas, USA
www.interbike.com
BIKEBIZ AWARDS 2011
Wednesday September 28th
Hilton Metropole, NEC,
Birmingham
www.bikebiz.com
October 2011
CYCLE SHOW 2011
Thursday September 29th to
Sunday October 2nd
NEC Birmingham, UK
www.cycleshow.co.uk
November 2011
TAICHUNG BIKE WEEK
November 29th to
December 2nd
Taichung, Taiwan
www.taichung-bikeweek.com
For more cycle trade dates: www.bikebiz.com/events
For additional copies please contact:
Gemma.Messina@intentmedia.co.uk
BIKEBIZ.COM
BIKEBIZ MARKETPLACE
TO ADVERTISE IN THESE PAGES PLEASE CALL CARLY BAILEY ON 01992 535647
THE STANDARD PACKAGE INCLUDES:
The BikeBiz Marketplace offers a complete
marketing package of print, online and
editorial visibility, allowing companies the
opportunity to maintain contact with
readers each month without the
associated cost of full display advertising.
Its associated online version, has been
designed to offer readers a directory of all
products and services in the bike trade.
A quarter page advert in each issue
Regular editorial coverage in the dedicated column
Company details listed in the online directory
with web link
Company details listed in the BikeBiz
Marketplace Contacts
Marketplace
To get your company featured here contact:
Your presence in this section ensures that
your company’s details are easily found,
keeping you one step ahead of your
competitors.
Carly Bailey on 01992 535647 or
carly.bailey@intentmedia.co.uk
£175
(minimum
six months)
COMPANY PROFILE
MARKETPLACE CONTACTS
BIKES & ACCESSORIES
Madison
Paligap
Seventies
The Cycle Division
Kinesis Bikes
Upgrade Bikes
01908 326 000
01454 313 116
0845 310 3670
0845 0508 500
01403 711 611
01403 711 611
www.madisonb2b.co.uk
www.paligapltd.co.uk
www.seventies.co.uk
www.thecycledivision.com
www.kinesisbikes.co.uk
www.upgradebikes.co.uk
BIKE MAINTENANCE
Weldtite
01652 660 000
www.weldtite.co.uk
COMPONENTS
Bob Elliot & Co Ltd
Pace cycles Ltd
USE Ltd
01772 459 887
01723 867 919
01798 344 477
www.bob-elliot.co.uk
www.pacecycles.com
www.use1.com
CUSTOM CLOTHING
Wildoo Ltd
01908 374 555
www.wildoo.co.uk
EPOS
Citrus Lime
Evopos
0845 603 9254
0845 644 9424
www.citrus-retail.com
www.evopos.com
LIGHTING
Exposure Lights
01798 344 477
www.exposurelights.com
NUTRITION
Zipvit
01444 243 000
www.zipvitsport.com
RACKS
Pendle
Maxx Raxx
01282 699 555
0845 230 3799
www.pendle-bike.co.uk
www.maxxraxx.co.uk
RESPRAYS & REPAIRS
Argos
0117 972 4730
www.argoscycles.com
TRAINING SERVICES
Cycle Systems Academy
0207 6082577 www.cycle-systems-academy.co.uk
WATER BOTTLES
Botlesport
Wildoo Ltd
0845 602 9267
01908 374 555
www.bottlesport.com
www.wildoo.co.uk
WEBSITE SERVICES
SimpleEshop
SiWis Limited
0116 267 5145
01709 511766
www.simpleeshop.com
www.siwis.co.uk
BIKEBIZ.COM
Quarter PRataes:
ge
RORY HITCHINS
Lezyne (distributed via Upgrade)
T: 01403 711 611
W: www.upgradebikes.co.uk
Lezyne has established itself in a relatively
short space of time – is that fair to say?
2012 will be Lezyne’s fifth year. There is a
huge amount of drive and passion in the
brand with a clear directive to be the best in
category. Lezyne’s success has been rapid
because the products physically work so well
and have a great sense of style. It has a
reputation as an affordable premium brand.
What are the latest releases?
Key introductions in 2011 include the Dirt
Drive range, offering twice the volume of
floor drive pumps for fast inflation of MTB
tyres up to 70 psi. These pumps are perfect
for fitting tubeless tyres at fast, high volumes
for blowing the tyre to seal on the rim. Also
new was the Travel Floor Drive, a compact
unit with smaller base and shorter barrel, but
no loss in performance.
The CFH pump range (CO2 Flex Hose) has
the ‘Flex Hose’ as standard, a braided hose
that doubles as a piercing devise for the CO2
canister supplied with the pump on a handy
bottle cage bracket. The rider can quickly
inflate a tyre with the CO2, but have the
peace of mind of a quality pump at the same
time. The pumps look stylish too. Lezyne’s
multi-tool range was bolstered with the
Rap20, offering exceptional value for a
quality 20 piece tool at £21.99.
Are any lines big sellers in particular?
Big sellers in the mini pumps are the high
pressure pumps ‘Pressure Drive’ and ‘Road
Drive’. The multi-tool range sell wells, but
‘Rap13’ and ‘Stainless12’ do big numbers, for
sure. For floor pumps it’s the ‘Steel Floor
Drive’ that does best, a quality metal floor
pump that comes at a price of plastic pumps.
In soft goods the
‘Medium Caddy’ seat pack does very well as
does the ‘Firebreak’ hydration backpack.
How’s business?
Lezyne business is booming. More dealers are
coming on board each month. We offer great
margins and low cost re-stocking
programmes. There are POS support items
available that really help set the brand out.
Dealers that display the range of Lezyne instore as a brand with all products grouped,
are showing the strongest growth.
Each year there are more customers with
high-end bikes looking for appropriately
designed and presented accessories. Lezyne
stands out from the crowd, attracting those
after quality and reliability.
What’s next for Lezyne?
Can’t divulge too much yet, but I can say
that 2012 will see a new range of home
workshop tools. Expect high quality with
metal and natural materials mixed in classic
Lezyne style. More surprising to you will be
the news that Lezyne will enter the lights
market with a range of LED lights. That’s
really all I’m at liberty to say right now.
BIKEBIZ JULY 67
BIKEBIZ | MARKETPLACE
68 BIKEBIZ JULY
BIKES & ACCESSORIES
BIKES & ACCESSORIES
BIKES & ACCESSORIES
BIKES & ACCESSORIES
BIKEBIZ.COM
BIKEBIZ | MARKETPLACE
BIKES & ACCESSORIES
BIKE MAINTENANCE
BIKEBIZ.COM
BIKES & ACCESSORIES
COMPONENTS
BIKEBIZ JULY 69
BIKEBIZ | MARKETPLACE
70 BIKEBIZ JULY
COMPONENTS
COMPONENTS
CUSTOM CLOTHING
EPOS
BIKEBIZ.COM
BIKEBIZ | MARKETPLACE
BIKEBIZ.COM
EPOS
LIGHTING
NUTRITION
RACKS
BIKEBIZ JULY 71
BIKEBIZ | MARKETPLACE
72 BIKEBIZ JULY
RACKS
RESPRAYS & REPAIRS
TRAINING SERVICES
WATER BOTTLES
BIKEBIZ.COM
BIKEBIZ | MARKETPLACE
WATER BOTTLES
WEBSITE SERVICES
WEBSITE SERVICES
To get your company
featured here contact:
Carly Bailey on
01992 535647
or carly.bailey@intentmedia.co.uk
BIKEBIZ.COM
BIKEBIZ JULY 73
OFF TRACK | NUMBER CRUNCHING
I N THE SADDLE
Mark Noble, Owner,
Deluxe BMX
Let’s get
statistical
British Cycling believe that its Breeze cycle
campaign could see scores of women try
cycling for the first time. Meanwhile Trek’s new
warehouse vastly increases the manufacturer’s
capacity to store bikes.
What bikes do you own?
I do have some old school classics, a couple of proper
landmark bikes, and some right old muck – but I just
generally love bicycles, the simpler the better. My current
bike of choice is my 2011 Deluxe Tech2 – it's my nearperfect set-up and there's something extremely satisfying
about riding a bike that you've designed.
Tell us a bit about your business background:
I've been in the BMX business for over 23 years, through
launching, editing, and publishing BMX and other magazines.
Back in those days we were proud of what were marketleading magazines. BMX Print media has changed now, and
I'm really impressed with modern, newcomer magazines such
as The Albion and Case.
Now, I have an established BMX brand in Deluxe, taking it
back to a fresh ethos with tons of potential, great products
and a great team. Running a bike company is an interesting
learning curve for sure, but it's a good one. I'm also starting a
UK distribution company dealing with bike shops direct.
234
ad
e 234 ro
r
e
w
e
r
The
ing
ts involv
acciden ondon in
in L
cyclists ays TfL .
2010, s
You're quite involved with sponsorship of riders and
events - why is this important to your biz?
Well, we obviously need team riders to help design and prove
our products and get involved with the creative side of
Deluxe; photos, videos, design and marketing. Plus, I genuinely
enjoy helping the guys out with what they need. Events wise,
I also have no hesitation helping out a jam with some
product prizes – you've got to give back to the scene.
Product wise, what can Deluxe offer the bike dealer?
Frames, bars, stems, hub-sets, pedals, seats, pedals, sprockets,
and more, all built for bicycle motocross. From a business
standpoint, the prices are right and a bike shop has a large
margin to play around with, and I believe we can back it up
with good service. I'm proud of what we make, it's taken a
while to get it where we want it, but it's coming good now.
What's coming from Deluxe in 2012?
This year we are expanding into an all-new complete bike
line and it's a tight, limited edition line, two models strong
and built right.
Project wise at Deluxe, now we're in our third year we're
on course to make a profit with the business, so we'll be able
to stand by our original commitment to the Stephen Murray
Fund and contribute the ten per cent of Deluxe profits back
to Stephen and the guys.
100
Bike retailers Halfords and
Wiggle both recorded
rises in the Experian Hot
Online Shop 100. Sadly
Evans fell, but only by a
couple of places.
What are the best contact details for prospective retail
partners?
Probably the best bet is to email mark@deluxebmx.com, or
phone 05602 796039.
74 BIKEBIZ JULY
BIKEBIZ.COM
OFF TRACK | NUMBER CRUNCHING
80,000
British Cycling's conservative
estimate of the number of
women it will get onto bikes
through it's new Breeze cycle
ride initiative.
MOST POPULAR STORIES ON
OUR BIGGEST 15 STORIES ONLINE IN MAY
1. Joiner builds 100 per cent wooden bike
http://www.bikebiz.com/news/read/joiner-builds-100wooden-bike
2. Etape Caledonia’s foe is a big beat of journalism
http://www.bikebiz.com/news/read/etape-caledonia-sfoe-is-a-big-beast-of-journalism
3. Angry birds poop on cars
http://www.bikebiz.com/news/read/angry-birds-poopon-cars
29
What will be the key trend at
Eurobike this year? The 29er,
according to the show organiser.
4. London bike tube map wins Ordnance Survey
award
http://www.bikebiz.com/news/read/london-bike-tubemap-wins-ordnance-survey-award
5. Halfords cuts Carrera to ‘lowest ever’ prices
http://www.bikebiz.com/news/read/halford-cutscarrera-to-lowest-ever-prices
35,000
6. UCI bans Oz shoe
http://www.bikebiz.com/index.php/news/read/ucibans-oz-shoe
Trek UK's new warehouse can fit over
35,000 bikes. You can bet the one
you want will be at the bottom.
7. Wiggle to float?
http://www.bikebiz.com/news/read/wiggle-to-float
8. Helmet cam cyclists and the speeding motorist
http://www.bikebiz.com/news/read/video-helmet-camcyclist-s-and-the-speeding-motorist
9. Wiggle to sell Boardman bikes
http://www.bikebiz.com/news/read/wiggle-to-sellboardman-bikes
10. When the going gets tough, the tough gets
going
http://www.bikebiz.com/news/read/when-the-goinggets-tough-the-tough-get-going
11. Race Face reopens for business
http://www.bikebiz.com/news/read/race-face-reopensfor-business
12. Mercedes Benz announces bike line
http://www.bikebiz.com/news/read/mercedes-benzannounces-bike-line
13. Bike launch report: Red or Dead teams up with
Raleigh
http://www.bikebiz.com/news/read/bike-launch-reportred-or-dead-teams-up-with-raleigh
14. Keronite: important technology for the bike
business?
http://www.bikebiz.com/news/read/keroniteimportant-technology-for-the-bike-business
15. Tron-like LED wheel spinners get cyclists seen
http://www.bikebiz.com/index.php/news/read/tronlike-led-wheel-spinners-get-cyclists-seen
BIKEBIZ.COM
BIKEBIZ JULY 75
OFF THE RECORD
OFF
k
c
a
r
T
Send your pictures to
mark.sutton@intentmedia.co.uk
• all terrain man samples giro life
Bike dealer
scores Giro
victory
Booth took a VIP trip round
Santini’s factory in Bergamo
TONY BOOTH of All Terrain Cycles, Saltaire,
Bradford, won a Team Experience trip to Giro
2011 thanks to a prize from Fisher Outdoor and
Santini last month.
Booth jetted off to the Giro d’Italia to sample
life as part of a pro team after winning the
international Santini competition. Booth also
took a VIP trip to the Santini factory in Bergamo
before joining one of the Santini sponsored
teams, after which he’ll join the team riders and
managers for dinner. He’ll also get to follow the
riders in the team car during the stage.
Get the full story on BikeBiz.com
Scottish
schools are
cycle friendly
Bishopbriggs is the first
town in Scotland where all
seven primary schools have
achieved Cycling Scotland’s
Cycle Friendly Award. Cycling
to primary schools in the
area has doubled in just one
year, with the support of a
number of organisations –
including East Dunbarton’s
Cycle Co-operative. The
Award is dedicated to
encouraging cycling as a
whole school culture,
benefiting kids’ health and
environment.
While it’s not strictly
necessary, several of St
Matthews’ primary school’s
teachers insist on
demonstrating their ongoing
commitment to cycling by
holding lessons underneath
alongside local BMX and
mountain bike stuntmen.
Find out more at
www.edscyclecoop.org.uk and
www.cyclingscotland.org
Hornby borrows Olympian
for Hamleys launch
TOY MANUFACTURER Hornby has had a helping
hand from Olympic cycling hopeful Lizzie Armistead
in promoting its London 2012 products in toy
superstore Hamleys.
Lizzie drew shopper's attention to the display,
pedalling her dynamo equip bike in order to power
the Hornby Olympic Train set.
Members of the public were able to join in the
fun too, by having a whirl on Lizzie's bike, giving the
miniature train set a further boost.
76 BIKEBIZ JULY
Hornby has created a special London 2012 range
to commemorate the Olympic and Paralympic
Games - all available to purchase in the famous
London store and also to be shortly available via
hornby.com’s online shop.
To help celebrate, the Royal Mint also offered a
coin swap on the fourth floor for one day only,
where customers were able to swap a standard 50p
for a shiny new commemorative London 2012
cycling 50p.
BIKEBIZ.COM
OFF THE RECORD
• cyclist brings home the bread in gold hill honk • ncn cycles to schools
A day at the
museum
ENGAGING CHILDREN with cycling
is the name of the game, and why
not fill in the blanks about the
evolution of the bike in the process?
That’s the philosophy of the
National Cycle Collection, which has
been visiting schools – including
Crossgates Primary School,
Llandrindod Wells (pictured) – to
grow interest in bikes.
Job share curator of the Museum
John Gill visiting the pupils of the
school (pictured with teach Verity
Pritchard) and is keen to involved
more schools in visits to or from the
museum for children to learn about
the evolution of the bicycle.
www.cyclemuseum.org.uk or tel
01597 825531, Monday to Friday
between 10am and 4pm. For more
about the National Cycle Museum
turn to May’s BikeBiz.
quote
unquote
“After riding happily through London
once a day with them since September
2009, we got stopped this evening.
More officers were summoned, and four
of them explained to me that I was
breaking the law. “They were not
specific about what law I was breaking.
They felt my bike was not meant for
transporting people, only cargo, and
they wanted me to have a motorcyclestyle shaped seat on the back and,
ideally, seatbelts.
I was not given a ticket, just informed
that if I continue to ride this way they
will stop me again.”
Mum ‘X’ after being stopped by
London police for carrying her two
children on a legal purpose built trailer,
June 6th
“29ers are a major focus at retail stores
specialising in biking sports. Customers
are now asking about them by name. I
estimate that in the future, 50 per cent
of the hardtails sold in the upper price
segment in Germany will be 29ers.”
Oliver Hensche, head of the Giant
Germany, May 31st
“CYCLING IS constantly evolving. It’s
not simply something to do for exercise
anymore. It’s a viable form of
Cyclists rise to
bread winner
challenge
YORKSHIRE’S FAMOUSLY
cobbled Gold Hill has seen a
cyclist or two over the years,
most famously a young delivery
boy for Hovis’ famous ‘70s
advert and numerous pastiche
and homages – including
Victoria Pendleton’s for the
bread brand.
Last month saw a group of
120 cyclists took part in the
first annual ‘Gold Hill Honk’.
The winner of the 200-metre
ascent sprint won themselves
a year’s supply of bread, plus
a number of other prizes,
courtesy of Hovis and event
organiser ShaftesburyCycle
Revival.
Find out more at
www.shaftesbury
cyclerevival.co.uk
Sponsored by the brands of
Moore Large 01332 274252
transportation, and as a result the
industry is growing.
“Our new facility will allow us to
keep pace with this growth by providing
both a better environment for our
employees, and space to bring our
customers in for training.”
Trek UK’s general manager Nigel
Roberts, June 2nd
"The Albion, I like it. It's a little like
Rolling stone back when they had Annie
Leibovitz touring with the Stones and
sending candids back. Gritty. Real."
Bob Osborn, founder of the USA's
BMX Action Magazine
For more on these stories, head to www.bikebiz.com
BIKEBIZ.COM
BIKEBIZ JULY 77
OFF TRACK | SPOKESMAN
SPOKES
Normal for
nanas & nippers
If we want to expand the market we
need to normalise cycling,
says Carlton Reid
“If I waited
until there
was a perfect
infrastructure
in place
before letting
my kids on the
roads, they’d
be adults ...”
NORMAL FOR Norfolk is a cruel term
devised by doctors at a Norwich hospital to
categorise intellectually challenged patients.
I'd now like to amend and appropriate
the term for cycling, and replace the
derogatory connotations.
Normal for the Netherlands - N.F.N would stand for conditions conducive to
mass cycling. Cycling for "nannas and
nippers," as John the Monkey said on Twitter.
Those in favour of the creation of miles
and miles of
segregated bicycle
routes, of the type
common on the
continent, believe
that grandmothers
and children - the
mass of the
population - will be
attracted to cycling
only after the
construction of safe
routes.
This is a laudable aim. But the present
administration - like all the others before
them - seem to have no appetite for reducing
on-street parking, taking road-space away
from motorised vehicles and spending on
cyclists. It's fine to spend billions on widening
miles of motorways, but political suicide to
even countenance building stuff for cyclists.
So, if I waited until there was a perfect
bicycle infrastructure before letting my kids
out on their bikes on British roads, they
would be adults before even a tenth of a
perfect network was built.
Thing is, my kids are already Normal for
the Netherlands. They go on cycle holidays.
They cycle to school. On roads, with cars.
Isn't this dangerous? Can be, but it's
cocooned kids who face the greatest danger
long-term. A sedentary life is a recipe for a
whole host of killer diseases. As we all know,
the health benefits of cycling far outweigh
the risks.
I suspect that the UK government could
spend billions on bike paths, but this still
wouldn't get people on bikes in the numbers
that segregationists hope for.
It's not just the lack of kerbs
on bike lanes, there's a wider
image problem. Brits have
been brought up on the fact
that cycling is wacky. 'Look
at the funny hats, shoes and
tight clothing they wear',
seems to underpin a great
deal of the anti-cyclist
invective you see in
newspapers. Sure, the bike
trade profits from hi-vis jackets, helmets and
all the other clobber for enthusiast cyclists,
but such cyclists are not Normal for the
Netherlands. To expand the market, to get
to Dutch levels of bicycle spend per capita,
we need to normalise cycling. I'm not
suggesting bike shops should cease to stock,
or hide under the counter, what tabloid
writers consider ‘pervy’ gear, but might it
not be a good idea to have more 'normal'
cycling imagery and goods displayed in
window fronts and in-store rather than just
wall-to-wall out-group stuff?
Afterall, Nippers and nannas tend not to
go into Ann Summers stores.
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78 BIKEBIZ JULY
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Guys in my local cycle shop
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giveaway was pathetic
AAPresident Edmund King
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Owen to eat a raw rotten
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Revelation WC XX forks @ononebikes
Just gave talk at an elementary
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@scottstoll
Is there a kinder thing to do to
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@stradacycles
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