Skip to content
  • road.cc
  • off.road.cc
  • ebiketips
  • Shop
  • About us
  • Subscribe to the road.cc newsletter here
Log In Register

Support road.cc

Like this site? Help us to make it better.
Subscribe
  • News
  • Reviews

    Bike

    Components

    Accessories

    Clothing

    Health, fitness and nutrition

    Tools and workshop

    Miscellaneous

    Road bikes

    Sportive and endurance bikes

    Gravel and adventure bikes

    Urban and hybrid bikes

    Touring bikes

    Cyclocross bikes

    Electric bikes

    Folding bikes

    Fixed & singlespeed bikes

    Children’s bikes

    Tandems

    Frames

    Accessories – misc

    Computer mounts

    Bags

    Bar ends

    Bike bags & cases

    Bottle cages

    Bottle

    Cameras

    Car racks

    Child seats

    Computers

    Glasses

    GPS units

    Helmets

    Lights – front

    Lights – rear

    Light – sets

    Locks

    Mirrors

    Mudguards

    Racks

    Pumps & CO2 inflators

    Puncture kits

    Reflectives

    Smart watches

    Stands and racks

    Trailers

    Arm & leg warmers

    Base layers

    Gilets

    Gloves – full finger

    Gloves – mitts

    Headwear

    Jackets

    Jerseys – casual

    Jerseys – long sleeve

    Jerseys – short sleeve

    Overshoes

    Shoes

    Shorts & 3/4s

    Skin suits

    Socks

    Tights & longs

    Underwear

    Trousers

    Bar tape & grips

    Bottom brackets

    Brake & gear cables

    Brake & STI levers

    Brake pads & spares

    Brakes

    Cassettes & freewheels

    Chains

    Chainsets & chainrings

    Derailleurs – front

    Derailleurs – rear

    Forks

    Gear levers & shifters

    Groupsets

    Handlebars & extensions

    Headsets

    Hubs

    Inner tubes

    Pedals

    Quick releases & skewers

    Saddles

    Seatposts

    Stems

    Wheels

    Tyres

    Energy & recovery bars

    Energy & recovery drinks

    Energy & recovery gels

    Heart rate monitors

    Hydration products

    Hydration systems

    Indoor trainers

    Power measurement

    Skincare & embrocation

    Sun care

    Training – misc

    Cleaning products

    Lubrication

    Tools – multitools

    Tools – Portable

    Tools – workshop

    Workstands

    Apps

    Books, Maps & DVDs

    Camping and outdoor equipment

    Family

    Gifts & misc

  • Buyers Guides
    Bike
    Components
    Accessories

    Clothing

    Health, fitness and nutrition

    Tools and workshop

    Miscellaneous

    Road bikes

    Sportive and endurance bikes

    Gravel and adventure bikes

    Urban and hybrid bikes

    Touring bikes

    Cyclocross bikes

    Electric bikes

    Folding bikes

    Fixed & singlespeed bikes

    Children’s bikes

    Tandems

    Frames

    Accessories – misc

    Bags

    Bike bags & cases

    Cameras

    Car racks

    Child seats

    Computers

    Glasses

    GPS units

    Helmets

    Lights – front

    Lights – rear

    Locks

    Mudguards

    Racks

    Pumps & CO2 inflators

    Puncture kits

    Reflectives

    Stands and racks

    Trailers

    Arm & leg warmers

    Base layers

    Gilets

    Gloves – full finger

    Gloves – mitts

    Headwear

    Jackets

    Jerseys – casual

    Jerseys – long sleeve

    Jerseys – short sleeve

    Overshoes

    Shoes

    Shorts & 3/4s

    Socks

    Tights & longs

    Trousers

    Bar tape & grips

    Brake & STI levers

    Brakes

    Chainsets & chainrings

    Derailleurs – front

    Derailleurs – rear

    Groupsets

    Handlebars & extensions

    Inner tubes

    Pedals

    Saddles

    Seatposts

    Wheels

    Tyres

    Heart rate monitors

    Indoor trainers

    Power measurement

    Skincare & embrocation

    Training – misc

    Lubrication

    Tools – multitools

    Tools – workshop

    Tools – Portable

    Books, Maps & DVDs

    Gifts & misc

  • Features

    All

    How To

    Tech

    Fitness

    Travel

  • Forum

    Bike Forum

    Tea Stop

  • Recommends
  • Podcast
  • Home
  • Subscribe
  • Log InRegister
  • News
  • Reviews

    Back

    Bikes

    Accessories

    Clothing

    Components

    Health, fitness and nutrition

    Tools and workshop

    Miscellaneous

    Back

    Road bikes

    Sportive and endurance bikes

    Gravel and adventure bikes

    Urban and hybrid bikes

    Touring bikes

    Cyclocross bikes

    Electric bikes

    Folding bikes

    Fixed & singlespeed bikes

    Children’s bikes

    Time trial bikes

    Tandems

    Frames

    Back

    Accessories – misc

    Computer mounts

    Bags

    Bar ends

    Bike bags & cases

    Bottle cages

    Bottles

    Cameras

    Car racks

    Child seats

    Computers

    Glasses

    GPS units

    Helmets

    Lights – front
    Lights – rear
    Light – sets
    Locks
    Mirrors
    Mudguards
    Racks
    Pumps & CO2 inflators

    Puncture kits

    Reflectives
    Smart watches
    Stands and racks
    Trailers

    Back

    Arm & leg warmers
    Base layers
    Gilets
    Gloves – full finger
    Gloves – mitts

    Headwear

    Jackets
    Jerseys – casual
    Jerseys – long sleeve
    Jerseys – long sleeve
    Overshoes
    Shoes
    Shorts & 3/4s
    Skin
    Socks
    Tights & longs
    Underwear
    Trousers

    Back

    Bar tape & grips
    Bottom brackets
    Brake & gear cables
    Brake & STI levers
    Brake pads & spares
    Brakes
    Cassettes & freewheels
    Chains
    Chainsets & chainrings
    Derailleurs – front

    Derailleurs – rear

    Forks
    Gear levers & shifters
    Groupsets
    Handlebars & extensions
    Headsets
    Hubs
    Inner tubes
    Pedals
    Quick releases & skewers
    Saddles
    Seatposts
    Stems
    Wheels
    Tyres

    Back

    Energy & recovery bars
    Energy & recovery drinks
    Energy & recovery gels
    Heart rate monitors
    Hydration products
    Hydration systems
    Indoor trainers
    Power measurement
    Skincare & embrocation
    Sun care
    Training – misc

    Back

    Cleaning products
    Lubrication
    Tools – multitools
    Tools – Portable
    Tools – workshop

    Workstands

    Back

    Apps
    Books, Maps & DVDs
    Camping and outdoor equipment
    Family
    Gifts & misc
  • Buyers Guides

    Back

    Bikes

    Accessories

    Clothing

    Components

    Health, fitness and nutrition

    Tools and workshop

    Miscellaneous

    Cross country mountain bikes

    Tubeless valves

    Back

    Road bikes

    Sportive and endurance bikes

    Gravel and adventure bikes

    Urban and hybrid bikes

    Touring bikes

    Cyclocross bikes

    Electric bikes

    Folding bikes

    Fixed & singlespeed bikes

    Children’s bikes

    Time trial bikes

    Tandems

    Frames

    Back

    Accessories – misc

    Computer mounts

    Bags

    Bar ends

    Bike bags & cases

    Bottle cages

    Bottles

    Cameras

    Car racks

    Child seats

    Computers

    Glasses

    GPS units

    Helmets

    Lights – front
    Lights – rear
    Light – sets
    Locks
    Mirrors
    Mudguards
    Racks
    Pumps & CO2 inflators

    Puncture kits

    Reflectives
    Smart watches
    Stands and racks
    Trailers

    Back

    Arm & leg warmers
    Base layers
    Gilets
    Gloves – full finger
    Gloves – mitts

    Headwear

    Jackets
    Jerseys – casual
    Jerseys – long sleeve
    Jerseys – long sleeve
    Overshoes
    Shoes
    Shorts & 3/4s
    Skin
    Socks
    Tights & longs
    Underwear
    Trousers

    Back

    Energy & recovery bars
    Energy & recovery drinks
    Energy & recovery gels
    Heart rate monitors
    Hydration products
    Hydration systems
    Indoor trainers
    Power measurement
    Skincare & embrocation
    Sun care
    Training – misc

    Back

    Cleaning products
    Lubrication
    Tools – multitools
    Tools – Portable
    Tools – workshop

    Workstands

    Back

    Apps
    Books, Maps & DVDs
    Camping and outdoor equipment
    Family
    Gifts & misc
  • Features

    Back

    All

    How To

    Tech

    Fitness

    Travel

  • Forum

    Back

    Bike Forum
    Tea Stop

    Fantasy Cycling

  • Recommends
  • Podcast
  • Off.road.cc
  • Ebiketips
  • Shop
  • About Us
  • Subscribe to the road.cc newsletter here
Subscribe
  • road.cc
  • off.road.cc
  • ebiketips
  • Shop
  • Subscribe to the ebiketips newsletter here
Log In Register
  • News
  • Reviews
  • Features
  • Buying
  • Blogs
  • road.cc
  • off.road.cc
  • News
  • Reviews
  • Features
  • Buying
  • Blogs
  • road.cc
  • off.road.cc
  • News
  • Reviews
  • Features
  • Buying
  • Blogs
  • road.cc
  • off.road.cc
  • road.cc
  • off.road.cc
  • ebiketips
  • Shop
  • About us
  • Subscribe to the off.road.cc weekly newsletter
Log In Register
  • Home
  • News
  • Reviews
    • Bikes
    • Accessories
    • Clothing
    • Components
    • Health and fitness
    • Tools and workshop
    • Hardtail Mountain bikes
    • XC Mountain bikes
    • Trail Mountain bikes
    • All-Mountain bikes
    • Enduro Mountain bikes
    • Electric Mountain bikes
    • Gravel and Adventure bikes
    • Pumps and CO2 inflators
    • Racks
    • Movie cameras
    • Mudguards
    • Bags
    • Lights - front
    • GPS units
    • Computers
    • Car racks
    • Bike bags and cases
    • Accessories - misc
    • Jerseys
    • Shoes
    • Shorts and 3/4s
    • Socks
    • Underwear
    • Jackets
    • Body armour
    • Arm and leg warmers
    • Base layers
    • Helmets
    • Gilets
    • Gloves
    • Glasses
    • Cassettes
    • Chainsets and chainrings
    • Derailleurs - rear
    • Forks
    • Gear levers and shifters
    • Groupsets
    • Handlebars
    • Headsets
    • Brakes
    • Inner tubes
    • Pedals
    • Rear shocks
    • Rotors
    • Saddles
    • Bar tape and grips
    • Bottom brackets
    • Seatposts
    • Brake pads and spares
    • Wheels
    • Tyres
    • Stems
    • Energy and recovery bars
    • Energy and recovery drinks
    • Energy and recovery gels
    • Skincare and embrocation
    • Hydration products
    • Power measurement
    • Cleaning products
    • Lubrication
    • Tools - multitools
    • Tools - portable
  • Buying
  • Features
  • Trail Guides
  • About us
  • Home
  • News
  • Reviews
    • Bikes
      • Hardtail Mountain bikes
      • XC Mountain bikes
      • Trail Mountain bikes
      • All-Mountain bikes
      • Enduro Mountain bikes
      • Electric Mountain bikes
      • Gravel and Adventure bikes
    • Accessories
      • Pumps and CO2 inflators
      • Racks
      • Movie cameras
      • Mudguards
      • Bags
      • Lights – front
      • GPS units
      • Computers
      • Car racks
      • Bike bags and cases
      • Accessories – misc
    • Clothing
      • Jerseys
      • Shoes
      • Shorts and 3/4s
      • Socks
      • Underwear
      • Jackets
      • Body armour
      • Arm and leg warmers
      • Base layers
      • Helmets
      • Gilets
      • Gloves
      • Glasses
    • Components
      • Cassettes
      • Chainsets and chainrings
      • Derailleurs – rear
      • Forks
      • Gear levers and shifters
      • Groupsets
      • Handlebars
      • Headsets
      • Brakes
      • Inner tubes
      • Pedals
      • Rear shocks
      • Rotors
      • Saddles
      • Bar tape and grips
      • Bottom brackets
      • Seatposts
      • Brake pads and spares
      • Wheels
      • Tyres
      • Stems
    • Health and fitness
      • Energy and recovery bars
      • Energy and recovery drinks
      • Energy and recovery gels
      • Skincare and embrocation
      • Hydration products
      • Power measurement
    • Tools and workshop
      • Cleaning products
      • Lubrication
      • Tools – multitools
      • Tools – portable
  • Buying
  • Features
  • Trail Guides
  • About Us
  • road.cc
  • Ebiketips
log in
register

Back to News

  • News
Cyclists in Lille’s Grand’Place (licensed CC BY SA 2.0 by Alain Rouiller on Flickr)
Cyclists in Lille's Grand'Place (licensed CC BY SA 2 (Image Credit: Farrelly Atkinson)

“We can’t distinguish between good and bad cyclists”: Cycling activists blast “absurd” city centre bike ban; Calls for “safe cycling town” for kids – but councillor says “unpopular schemes” make life “harder for working people” + more on the live blog

Happy Halloween, everyone! And to celebrate, Ryan Mallon is here for a special spooky edition of the road.cc live blog (though it’ll probably be the usual old nonsense, if I’m honest…)
  • by Ryan Mallon
Tue, Oct 31, 2023 10:03
21

SUMMARY

  • Cyclist gets hit by motorist – and then has his bike stolen as members of the public helped him
  • Government “utterly cowed by the cycling lobby”, says husband of pedestrian killed by cyclist
  • Wout van Aert set to target Giro d’Italia GC and skip Tour de France to focus on Olympics, according to reports in Italy
  • Near Miss of the Day Bonanza: Northamptonshire Police release compilation of poor driving around cyclists, urging motorists to “take extra care and show consideration for them”
  • The bad news keeps coming for Wiggle Chain Reaction, as parent company files for insolvency
  • Warning: Not for use during the cyclocross season
  • SRAM to recall aftermarket 12-speed shift-brake levers that could “move on the handlebar” due to excess threadlock
  • “Instead of victim blaming, why not send a message to drivers?” Road Safety Partnership criticised for “shameful” hi-vis ‘Be Bright Be Seen’ campaign
  • “Yup, it’s reflective strips for Halloween costumes”: Road Safety GB’s latest spooky “victim-blaming” advice raises eyebrows
  • Right, I now know what my next bike is going to be…
  • Great podcast news: Luke Rowe signs new two-year deal with Ineos
  • Continued weak cycling demand blamed as Mips sales fall by a third
  • “Would you feel comfortable with your kids cycling here?” ask campaigners calling for a “safe town to live in” – but councillor says local authority shouldn’t look for “unpopular schemes” that make life “harder for working people”
  • “We don’t have the means to distinguish between good and bad cyclists”: Cycling activists blast “absurd” city centre bike ban – where cycle hire stations are located
Cyclists in Lille’s Grand’Place (licensed CC BY SA 2.0 by Alain Rouiller on Flickr)
Cyclists in Lille's Grand'Place (licensed CC BY SA 2 (Image Credit: Farrelly Atkinson)
31 October 2023, 10:03

Cyclist gets hit by motorist – and then has his bike stolen as members of the public helped him

Another mention for Grimsby on this morning’s blog, as police in the town are appealing for witnesses after an especially unfortunate cyclist was struck by a motorist – only to have his bike stolen in an apparently unrelated incident as he was helped by members of the public.

The cyclist was riding on Eleanor Street in Grimsby last Friday at around 10.10am when he was struck by a passing driver, suffering minor injuries in the collision.

But as he was being assisted after the crash, one opportunistic scoundrel took advantage of the well-meaning intentions of others by nicking the stricken cyclist’s bike, a light blue Specialized Turbo electric mountain bike.

According to Humberside Police, the two incidents are believed to be entirely unrelated to each other.

“Our enquiries are ongoing and we would appeal to anyone who was in the area around the time of the collision, or anyone who has CCTV or dashcam footage that may assist, to please contact us on our non-emergency number 101 quoting log number 142 of 27 October,” the police said in a statement.

31 October 2023, 10:03

Government “utterly cowed by the cycling lobby”, says husband of pedestrian killed by cyclist

Matthew Briggs, whose wife Kim was hit and killed by a cyclist in London in 2016, has once again made a renewed call for a ‘death by dangerous cycling’ law, suggesting that the only reason such legislation has not already been passed is due to the government being “utterly cowed by the cycling lobby”.

Last month, the government said that it is working on legislation, although the Department for Transport has admitted to campaigners there may not be enough parliamentary time to pass the law before the next general election.

Cyclists at traffic lights, London
Cyclists at traffic lights, London (Image Credit: Simon MacMichael)
Cyclists at traffic lights, London
Cyclists at traffic lights, London (Image Credit: Simon MacMichael)

Read more: > Husband of pedestrian killed by cyclist claims government “utterly cowed by the cycling lobby”, makes renewed call for death by dangerous cycling law

31 October 2023, 10:03

Wout van Aert set to target Giro d’Italia GC and skip Tour de France to focus on Olympics, according to reports in Italy

We’ve all heard of GC Kuss, but according to recent, rather hopeful reports in Italy, GC Wout is on the cards at the 2024 Giro d’Italia, as Jumbo-Visma are apparently contemplating backing a Van Aert pink jersey challenge next May.

La Gazzetta dello Sport have reported this morning that the 29-year-old is set to make his Giro debut next season, and will be assigned leadership duties. The Italian paper also claims that, thanks to the favourable route – which includes 68km of time trialling and a more moderate than usual supply of high mountains – the Dutch team reckon Van Aert can finish in the top five overall in Milan.

By focusing on the Giro – and possibly going head-to-head with Tadej Pogačar, who looks increasingly likely to attempt a Giro-Tour double in 2024 – Van Aert will then almost certainly skip the Tour de France, in order to rest up and properly prepare for a crack at gold at the Paris Olympics.

While an Italian route to the Olympics makes a lot of sense for Van Aert – who will be targeting time trial and road race gold in Paris – the whole ‘Wout for Pink’ reports may prove wishful thinking on La Gazzetta’s part.

2023 Wout Van Aert © Zac Williams-SWpix.com - 3
2023 Wout Van Aert © Zac Williams-SWpix (Image Credit: Farrelly Atkinson)
2023 Wout Van Aert © Zac Williams-SWpix.com - 3
2023 Wout Van Aert © Zac Williams-SWpix (Image Credit: Farrelly Atkinson)

 Zac Williams/SWpix.com

While the Belgian star has shown his prowess in the high mountains of the Tour (his work for Vingegaard and that breakaway win on the double Ventoux stage in 2021 prime examples), challenging for three weeks is a completely different matter, and with the Stelvio (albeit sightly neutered by its position on the stage) and two climbs up the Monte Grappa coming late in the Giro, a top five at the Corsa Rosa would stretch even Van Aert’s all-round capabilities.

Also, the Tour of Flanders and Paris-Roubaix – still missing from the Belgian’s sparkling palmares – remain the top priorities for the spring, and require a completely different, more powerful physiology to that of a lightweight GC contender, and the few weeks separating the classics and the Giro will provide little time for Van Aert to lose the necessary weight and shift gears.

Bashing over the cobbles one month and climbing with the best the next may prove beyond Van Aert, or anyone for that matter, even in this age of all-rounders. But it’ll be fun to see him try it, anyway.

31 October 2023, 10:03

Near Miss of the Day Bonanza: Northamptonshire Police release compilation of poor driving around cyclists, urging motorists to “take extra care and show consideration for them”

In a real Halloween treat for lovers of our Near Miss of the Day series, Northamptonshire Police have released a close pass compilation featuring examples of poor driving around cyclists submitted to its online Operation Snap portal this year.

The video features dodgy driving on the county’s roads captured between January and September, a period in which Northamptonshire Police received 284 Operation Snap submissions, leading to 207 prosecutions and – in the case of two particularly serious cases of dangerous driving – two appearances in court.

“Cyclists are one of our most vulnerable road users and it’s therefore vitally important that drivers take extra care and show consideration for them when sharing the county’s roads,” Northamptonshire Police’s Safer Roads team manager, Matthew O’Connell, said in a statement.

“Shooting past at speed, or passing too close, can pose a real risk to a cyclist and we hope this video serves as a reminder of the need to slow right down when travelling behind a cyclist and wait for the appropriate time to overtake.

“When overtaking leave plenty of room to ensure the manoeuvre is carried out safely and considerately, without causing unnecessary risk which could put with yourself or the cyclist in danger.”

31 October 2023, 10:03

The bad news keeps coming for Wiggle Chain Reaction, as parent company files for insolvency

The grim, unrelenting cycle of bad news for Wiggle Chain Reaction continues today as – in what must be said is a completely unsurprising development – its parent company, online retail giant Signa Sports United, has filed for insolvency at court in Germany.

SSU, which also owns Probikeshop, Bikestar, and Fahrrad.de, filed for insolvency in Bielefeld and has been appointed a provisional administrator.

Wiggle and Chain Reaction logos
Wiggle and Chain Reaction logos (Image Credit: Farrelly Atkinson)
Wiggle and Chain Reaction logos
Wiggle and Chain Reaction logos (Image Credit: Farrelly Atkinson)

Read more: > Wiggle Chain Reaction’s parent company files for insolvency

31 October 2023, 10:03

Warning: Not for use during the cyclocross season

SaddleSpur saddle
SaddleSpur saddle (Image Credit: SaddleSpur)
SaddleSpur saddle
SaddleSpur saddle (Image Credit: SaddleSpur)

Hmm… 

We have an in-depth look at one of these peculiar-looking (or “innovative”, as the marketers have claimed) saddles, from British company SaddleSpur, coming soon – but, though I’m no expert here, I’m not sure the ability to pull off quick ‘cross-style dismounts and remounts will feature too prominently in the review…

Saddlespur saddle side view
Saddlespur saddle side view (Image Credit: SaddleSpur)
Saddlespur saddle side view
Saddlespur saddle side view (Image Credit: SaddleSpur)

According to SaddleSpur, their intriguing design aims to “provide natural support for your lower back”, allowing you to “achieve more power and performance with less strain”, and has the “potential to reshape the cycling industry”.

Along with a few other things, if you’re not careful…

31 October 2023, 10:03

SRAM to recall aftermarket 12-speed shift-brake levers that could “move on the handlebar” due to excess threadlock

It’s been quite the year for recalls in the cycling industry, with Sram now joining the party by announcing a safety recall of its aftermarket eTap AXS Red, Force, Rival, and Apex shift-brake levers produced before July this year.

The American component manufacturer has made the decision due to excess threadlock on the clamp bolt potentially resulting in the clamp failing to be tightened sufficiently, despite reaching the recommended torque. The danger is that the shift-brake lever could move on the handlebar while riding, leading to a crash.

2021 SRAM Rival eTap AXS groupset - shifter.jpg
2021 SRAM Rival eTap AXS groupset - shifter (Image Credit: Farrelly Atkinson)
2021 SRAM Rival eTap AXS groupset - shifter.jpg
2021 SRAM Rival eTap AXS groupset – shifter (Image Credit: Farrelly Atkinson)

Read more: > SRAM to recall aftermarket 12-speed shift-brake levers that could “move on the handlebar” due to excess threadlock

31 October 2023, 10:03

“Instead of victim blaming, why not send a message to drivers?” Road Safety Partnership criticised for “shameful” hi-vis ‘Be Bright Be Seen’ campaign

Another week, another road safety group in the UK coming under fire for launching a “victim blaming” campaign aimed at vulnerable road users.

Earlier this year, we had Warwickshire Road Safety Partnership’s “Cyclists, be considerate of motorists who are trying to pass” advice, and last month it was the turn of Bedfordshire Road Safety Partnership and its weird “Don’t be like Ted, wear a helmet on your head” advert.

Now, with the nights getting darker and the clocks changed, the Hertfordshire Road Safety Partnership has stepped up to the mark, advising pedestrians that a “little bit of bright and reflective material will make you GLOW, allowing drivers to see you and help to keep you safe when crossing roads”.

With winter approaching a little bit of bright and reflective material will make you GLOW, allowing drivers to see you and help to keep you safe when crossing roads. Please #BeBrightBeSeen this winter.https://t.co/JHNsmKozek@Herts_Highways @Herts_Highways @RoadSafetyYNY pic.twitter.com/L9wVefk3pw

— Herts Road Safety (@roadsafetyherts) October 30, 2023

Needless to say, the comments underneath Herts Road Safety’s ‘Be Bright Be Seen’ post are fun…

“Instead of victim blaming, why not send a message to drivers?” asked cyclist Andrew. “Remind them it’s their responsibility to drive to the conditions, and be aware of others.”

Highway Code Rule 126, “Drive at a speed that will allow you to stop well within the distance you can see to be clear”.
*That* is the key to folk not being run over, not victim-blaming those without loud coats. Focus on the cause of danger, not the victims.

— Peter Clinch (@pjclinch@mastodon.scot) (@pj_clinch) October 31, 2023

“Why blame the vulnerable pedestrians?” added Hayles. “I drive at night and can see people dressed in black and unless they just step out in front of me with no warning, I have no problem seeing them.”

“Nice bit of victim blaming here. Maybe send the message to drivers to put their phones away when behind the wheel, to slow down etc,” said Robin.

It’s a little-known fact that if you are tired, drunk, or high on drugs when you see a hyper-reflexive vest, that cures you—immediately. Vests like that also disable local phone screens within a 100-yard radius. Car computers slow the car to the legal limit if they detect one too

— Bertil Hatt (@bertil_hatt) October 31, 2023

I sense a pattern developing with these road safety partnerships…

31 October 2023, 10:03

“Yup, it’s reflective strips for Halloween costumes”: Road Safety GB’s latest spooky “victim-blaming” advice raises eyebrows

Ah, we have more terrible Halloween-themed safety campaigns to dissect on the live blog now, as Road Safety GB – you know, the mandatory helmet poll group – have this afternoon published some advice on how to keep children safe as they go trick or treating on a night when the risk of a “car accident” is heightened (and spoiler alert – the advice has very little to do with the responsibilities of motorists, and a lot to do with reflective stickers on Halloween costumes. Yep).

In the post, Road Safety GB quotes a survey from Road Angel – a company that makes speed camera detectors for motorists, no less – which found that “just” 18 percent of parent use reflective tape on their children’s costumes (who are these people?), “leaving kids susceptible to not being seen by other road users on dimly lit roads”.

> Road safety group runs mandatory cycling helmets poll… 85% reject proposal

“Despite Halloween being a fun time for kids going trick-or-treating, the dark night increases the risk for children on the roads,” Road Angel’s founder Gary Digva said.

“The combination of decreased visibility due to darker evenings and nighttime festivities, the excitement of trick-or-treating, and increased pedestrian activity can heighten car accident risks.”

Yes, Gary, nothing to do with the drivers, eh?

He continued: “With kids being four times more vulnerable to being involved in a road accident on Halloween night, we’re urging parents and drivers to do what they can to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.”

Surprisingly, none of Gary’s subsequent advice touches on what drivers can do to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Instead, he says: “Children should be accompanied by an adult when trick-or-treating, as navigating the streets at night can pose significant risks.

“Before allowing older children to go trick-or-treating on their own, parents should consider if their kids are sufficiently educated about road safety rules…

“It’s also important to consider costumes with reflective elements or add reflective tape to enhance visibility, especially as evenings grow darker following the end-of-October clock change.”

Oh do pile in on @Road_Safety_GB for their uncritical reporting of this victim blaming.

Yup, it’s reflective strips for Halloween costumes. https://t.co/AlQaICWWC3

— CHAIRRDRF (@CHAIRRDRF) October 31, 2023

The Chair of the Road Danger Reduction Forum, Dr Robert Davis, was quick to criticise what he calls Road Safety GB’s decision to “uncritically” report “non-evidence-based victim blaming, here by a dashcam company (which alerts drivers to speed cameras) and adds sloppiness by using American lingo (‘crosswalks’). Sheesh.”

Sheesh indeed, Robert.

31 October 2023, 10:03

Right, I now know what my next bike is going to be…

2023 J.Laverack Aston Martin .1R road bike
2023 J.Laverack Aston Martin (Image Credit: Farrelly Atkinson)
2023 J.Laverack Aston Martin .1R road bike
2023 J.Laverack Aston Martin (Image Credit: Farrelly Atkinson)

> Aston Martin teams up with J.Laverack for “the world’s first ‘boltless’ bicycle” – the Aston Martin .1R

What a beauty. Like, I’m sure I’ll be able to afford it. How expensive could it be?

31 October 2023, 10:03

Great podcast news: Luke Rowe signs new two-year deal with Ineos

In a welcome boost for his and Geraint Thomas’ plans for the 2024 season of the Watts Occurring podcast, the Ineos Grenadiers announced today that Luke Rowe has signed a new two-year deal with the British team.

https://t.co/uAxMBytdq6 pic.twitter.com/BivhblOw8I

— Luke Rowe (@LukeRowe1990) October 31, 2023

“This team has been by home for my entire career and to ride on with them is a real honour. I’ve been fortunate to play my part in some of the brilliant results we’ve achieved in the past and will do the same for the very exciting future to come,” the 33-year-old, who turned pro with the then-Team Sky in 2012, developing into a reliable road captain and contributing to five Tour de France wins, said.

“My time as a Grenadier has included some incredible memories and I can’t wait to create many more. As one of the older, wiser heads, along with the likes of G and Swifty, we have a real opportunity to help the incredible array of young talent in the team as we look to achieve our goals.”

31 October 2023, 10:03

Continued weak cycling demand blamed as Mips sales fall by a third

Helmet technology company Mips, the Swedish brand behind the helmet safety system seen in many big-name brands’ lids, recorded a slump in the third quarter, blaming weak demand in cycling for a 32 percent fall in sales compared with the same period last year.

Nevertheless, CEO Max Strandwitz insisted the company can “remain confident about our long-term growth opportunities in the bike sub-category once the market starts to normalise”.

2023 Poc Ventral Air Mips - Mips logo.jpg
2023 Poc Ventral Air Mips - Mips logo (Image Credit: Farrelly Atkinson)
2023 Poc Ventral Air Mips - Mips logo.jpg
2023 Poc Ventral Air Mips – Mips logo (Image Credit: Farrelly Atkinson)

Read more: > Continued weak cycling demand blamed as Mips sales fall by a third

31 October 2023, 10:03

“Would you feel comfortable with your kids cycling here?” ask campaigners calling for a “safe town to live in” – but councillor says local authority shouldn’t look for “unpopular schemes” that make life “harder for working people”

A cycling group in Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole staged a special Halloween bike ride at the weekend – complete with fancy dress, of course – to call for safer infrastructure for “the huge amount of families who want to cycle”, while urging the council to make “radical changes” to ensure that the area is “liveable”.

 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Cycling Rebellion (@cyclingrebellion)

The well-attended bike ride, held on Sunday in miserable conditions through Boscombe, Southbourne, and Littledown, was organised by Poole-based group Cycling Rebellion (a two-wheeled off-shoot of the more widely known Extinction Rebellion), whose founder Adam Osman told the Daily Echo: “We have to think about making cycling for everyone”.

> Active Travel Group sympathises with drivers “who feel ‘rather claustrophobic’ in their one tonne sofa-carrying steel boxes”

“You need to look at the current infrastructure and ask yourself, would you feel comfortable with your kids cycling there?” Osman asked.

“Because that is a safe town to live in, one that accommodates every form of transport.

“That’s why we’re riding today, to show the huge amount of families in BCP who want to cycle, and that we need to make big changes to make it liveable. We’re calling on the implementation of a 20mph speed limit in BCP to make BCP safe for families.”

The council says it is currently in the “early stages” of proposing more 20mph speed limits in residential areas, while environment portfolio holder Andy Hadley noted that a “full” public consultation will take place before any decision is made.

> “Why on earth would I want to cycle on a waterlogged path?” Cyclist blasts new harbourside bike path

But, judging by the Echo’s own, admittedly skewed, polling on the subject, that consultation may prove to be a rocky affair. According to the paper’s survey, 82 percent of residents don’t want a 20mph limit in their area, compared to the 17 percent who do, and the one percent who still aren’t sure.

And, while Cycling Rebellion has called on the council to make the area “liveable” for families and children, Conservative opposition councillor Phil Broadhead says the local authority should not be spending its time looking for “unpopular schemes” that only make life “harder for working people”.

Maybe Mr Broadhead should join one of the group’s bike rides sometime…

31 October 2023, 10:03

“We don’t have the means to distinguish between good and bad cyclists”: Cycling activists blast “absurd” city centre bike ban – where cycle hire stations are located

In the UK we’re well used to controversies surrounding Public Spaces Protection Orders (better known as PSPOs), prohibiting people from riding their bikes in pedestrianised zones in city or town centres.

Over the past few months, North East Lincolnshire Council has been accused of “targeting” the old and slow with its cycling ban – and substantial fines and unclear signage – in Grimsby, while earlier this month police in Nuneaton asked the local authority to introduce a no cycle zone to cut out “really dangerous” cycling and “anti-social behaviour” in the shopping area, claiming that “we get a lot of kids wheelie-ing through and it sets the wrong tone”.

> “We get a lot of kids wheelie-ing through”: Police claim danger of “anti-social behaviour” should be tackled with town centre cycling ban

And it seems the debate has crossed the Channel recently.

Last week we reported that the city council in Lille has banned bikes, as well as scooters and skateboards, from the northern French town’s historic centre, after claims that residents were becoming “scared” of the “influx” of rampaging cyclists.

And now, bans have also been implemented in Nice (the site of next year’s Tour de France finale), Agen, and Niort, with other councils under increasing pressure to follow suit.

“A lot of old people don’t dare walk in these streets anymore,” the pro-walking campaign group 60 Millions de Piétons (60 Million Pedestrians) has said, while calling for more bans to be implemented across France.

Meanwhile, Lille’s deputy mayor – who says cyclists could be fined between €35 and €135 for breaching the new ban, with the higher fines reserved for those riding particularly fast or even, God forbid, “wearing headphones” – added that blanket bans are necessary because local authorities don’t “have the means to distinguish between good and bad cyclists”.

> “Stick it up your a*se”, 82-year-old tells council officer after being fined £100 for cycling in town centre

However, the spokesperson for France’s National Federation of Bicycle Users, Thibault Quéré, joined his English colleagues by describing the bans as “worrying” and often “absurd” – especially in Lille, where, as we noted last week, several of the city’s V’Lille cycle hire docking stations are located within the prohibited zones.

Well, at least it’s good to know that confusing and counterproductive town centre cycling bans aren’t just a British phenomenon, right? Right?

Help us to bring you the best cycling content

If you’ve enjoyed this article, then please consider subscribing to road.cc from as little as £1.99. Our mission is to bring you all the news that’s relevant to you as a cyclist, independent reviews, impartial buying advice and more. Your subscription will help us to do more.

Subscribe
  • cycling live blog, live blog, road.cc live blog
Ryan Mallon
twitter
After obtaining a PhD, lecturing, and hosting a history podcast at Queen’s University Belfast, Ryan joined road.cc in December 2021 and since then has kept the site’s readers and listeners informed and enthralled (well at least occasionally) on news, the live blog, and the road.cc Podcast. After boarding a wrong bus at the world championships and ruining a good pair of jeans at the cyclocross, he now serves as road.cc’s news editor. Before his foray into cycling journalism, he wallowed in the equally pitiless world of academia, where he wrote a book about Victorian politics and droned on about cycling and bikes to classes of bored students (while taking every chance he could get to talk about cycling in print or on the radio). He can be found riding his bike very slowly around the narrow, scenic country lanes of Co. Down.  

21 Comments

21 thoughts on ““We can’t distinguish between good and bad cyclists”: Cycling activists blast “absurd” city centre bike ban; Calls for “safe cycling town” for kids – but councillor says “unpopular schemes” make life “harder for working people” + more on the live blog”

  1. Backladder
    October 31, 2023 at 10:25 am
    0

    If they can’t distinguish

    If they can’t distinguish between good and bad cyclists how do they even know that bad cyclists exist?

    Log In or Register to post comments
    • chrisonabike
      October 31, 2023 at 10:44 am
      0

      It was a joke of course. 

      It was a joke of course.  “Good cyclists” is clearly an oxymoron…

      Log In or Register to post comments
    • hawkinspeter
      October 31, 2023 at 10:47 am
      0

      Backladder wrote:

      If they can’t distinguish between good and bad cyclists how do they even know that bad cyclists exist?

      — Backladder

      They don’t have to know. Anyone cycling in a PSPO area must be a bad cyclist by definition as the PSPO doesn’t distinguish.

      Log In or Register to post comments
    • Cugel
      October 31, 2023 at 11:12 am
      0

      Backladder wrote:

      If they can’t distinguish between good and bad cyclists how do they even know that bad cyclists exist?

      — Backladder

      Indeed.

      Perhaps they haven’t noticed but it can be a problerm distinguishing between good and bad people in general; and in discerning all sorts of other human proclivities that remain hidden until they …. aren’t.

      The general solution used to be: make laws prohibiting certain kinds of actually harmful behaviours along with processes to deal with those who ignore such laws. The informing principle used to be apprehension of the guilty with not that much about prevention of crime before the fact, other than the exhortations to lock up your bike shed, house and – in some quarters – your daughters.

      These days “the authorities” seem keen on prevention, with a number of laws making it a crime to look like you might be planning a naughty act. Being tooled-up for burglary has been one-such law for a long time. Being in possesion of a bike might be heading that way.

      It’s long been “a dream” of certain authoritarian types to have a technology and process for identifying “criminal-types” before the fact of them committing crimes. These authoritarians, though, soon slip into one or both of these modes:

      * Set up agent provcateurs to stimulate the “criminal types” into committing a crime.

      * Assume certain large categories of pariah status are all criminals then persecute, restrict or otherwise curtail their freedoms.

      Those with “the wrong” colour skin or nose shape will recognise the second category all too easily, as will various folk of a certain religious bent or idealogical inclination. For some time now, it’s been evident that cyclists are being groomed, in the media and in certain political circles, as another handy pariah-class who are inherently “criminal”.

      Meanwhile, large classes of actual criminals are free to go about committing one crime after another, often several a day – motorists: rapists; Toryspiv politicians, for exampe ….. not to mention the polis themselves.

      Rule of law? It’s been well twisted and curled into summick rather different. We even have wee brownshirts persecuting old folk on bicycles about the town squares, now. How long before we have the full Iranian polis model, bashing not just protestors and cyclists but anyone not fully and obviously supportive of the latest gang of political hooligans in power and their nasty doings?

      They’ll find us all with social media trawls, face recognition cameras and the mobile spy in your pocket. See China for details.

       

      Log In or Register to post comments
    • grumpyoldcyclist
      October 31, 2023 at 7:24 pm
      0

      hmmm, according to Government

      hmmm, according to Government figures, up to 80% of drivers speed in 20 mph zones, with over 50% speeding in 30 mph zones. Perhaps we should ban drivers from 20 & 30 mph zones?

      Log In or Register to post comments
  2. Pub bike
    October 31, 2023 at 10:58 am
    0

    It is very disappointing

    It is very disappointing reading about the elderly being fined for tootling around town centres on bikes whilst also seeing motorist after motorist on London roads using their mobile fines whilst driving.

    Councils and the police need to make sure that their enforcement regimes tackle offences that have the most serious consequences rather than those that are the easiest to enforce, and that they are joined up.

    Log In or Register to post comments
    • SimoninSpalding
      October 31, 2023 at 11:09 am
      0

      The local TV news had a piece

      The local TV news had a piece on this in Grimsby the other day. I didn’t bother listening to the drivel that the reporter was spouting but from the images seen the pedestrian areas were wide open, not many people and all of the cyclists appeared to be of the slow, utilitarian variety on old mountain/ hybrid bike shaped objects with a couple of carrier bags. In other words they were doing no harm other than annoying the better off who had been forced to park their car and walk a few feet. 

      Log In or Register to post comments
    • bikes
      October 31, 2023 at 3:51 pm
      0

      As far as I can tell, illegal
      As far as I can tell, illegal phone use by drivers is not being tackled at all. At least not in a way that puts people off doing it. I see it every day despite my commute being only around 10 minutes long.

      Log In or Register to post comments
  3. hutchdaddy
    October 31, 2023 at 4:02 pm
    0

    Phil Broadhead, is of course

    Phil Broadhead, is of course absolutley right that anyone who cycles is having such a great time, that working is the last thing they would want to do. Only drivers work.

    Log In or Register to post comments
  4. andystow
    October 31, 2023 at 4:44 pm
    0

    I just want everyone to know

    I just want everyone to know that the SaddleSpur is not on my Christmas list.

    Log In or Register to post comments
    • hawkinspeter
      October 31, 2023 at 4:59 pm
      0

      andystow wrote:

      I just want everyone to know that the SaddleSpur is not on my Christmas list.

      — andystow

      You’ve already bought one, haven’t you?

      Log In or Register to post comments
      • andystow
        October 31, 2023 at 7:25 pm
        0

        hawkinspeter wrote:

        I just want everyone to know that the SaddleSpur is not on my Christmas list.

        — hawkinspeter

        You’ve already bought one, haven’t you?

        — andystow

        I suppose I arsked for that.

        Log In or Register to post comments
        • levestane
          November 1, 2023 at 7:38 am
          0

          Is the SaddleSpur on a

          Is the SaddleSpur on a seatpost with the spur in front?

          Log In or Register to post comments
        • belugabob
          November 1, 2023 at 7:58 am
          0

          andystow wrote:

          I just want everyone to know that the SaddleSpur is not on my Christmas list.

          — andystow

          You’ve already bought one, haven’t you?

          — hawkinspeter

          I suppose I arsked for that.

          — andystow

          Either that’s a deliberate (humourous) typo, or you’ve been reading too many EastEnders scripts

          Log In or Register to post comments
    • kinderje
      November 1, 2023 at 8:09 am
      0

      But why wouldn’t you want a

      But why wouldn’t you want a doughnut holder? 

      Log In or Register to post comments
  5. Bungle_52
    October 31, 2023 at 5:20 pm
    0

    Re Northamptonshire Police

    Re Northamptonshire Police video and stats.

    207 prosecutions from 284 submissions. That’s got to be some sort of record surely. It’s either a sign that things are improving for cyclists or cyclists are only submitting the very worst (although from this sample many don’t look anywhere near as bad as some NFAs I’ve had), or WTJS’s explanation which I’m sure will be forthcoming.

    2 cases of dangerous driving which even killing a cyclist doesn’t usually end up with.

    It’s a shame they don’t tell us what each of the incidents resulted in but a link to this video in our own future submissions, as with the recent WMP one, may be useful.

    Log In or Register to post comments
    • HoarseMann
      October 31, 2023 at 9:19 pm
      0

      Northants do publish results.

      Northants do publish results. The white van driver who failed to give way at the traffic calming on Birchfield Road East got sent on a ‘What’s driving us’ course.

      Log In or Register to post comments
    • HoarseMann
      October 31, 2023 at 9:54 pm
      0

      and here’s January’s outcome

      and here’s January’s outcome data, filtered for ‘DASHCAM’ camera type and the offence codes for careless driving. It’s mostly courses, which is I think appropriate in some cases. Northants really do seem to be doing much better in this regard than a lot of other forces.

      Log In or Register to post comments
      • Bungle_52
        November 1, 2023 at 8:29 am
        0

        Thanks for the link and the

        Thanks for the link and the analysis. I know many disagree but I agree that driving courses will have the desired effect provided repeat offenders are dealt with robustly.

        Do you know the difference between WDU and Retraining?

        Log In or Register to post comments
        • HoarseMann
          November 1, 2023 at 4:18 pm
          0

          https://www.ukroed.org.uk

          https://www.ukroed.org.uk/courses/

          There are a number of different courses. The retraining course could be the one that involves a practical element, but I’m not sure…

          Log In or Register to post comments
  6. wtjs
    October 31, 2023 at 8:41 pm
    0

    Shooting past at speed, or

    Shooting past at speed, or passing too close, can pose a real risk to a cyclist and we hope this video serves as a reminder of the need to slow right down when travelling behind a cyclist and wait for the appropriate time to overtake

    Northamptonshire Police needs to tell Lancashire Constabulary, because they haven’t yet accepted that it’s possible to pass cyclists too closely so they just ignore all such cases. As far as it’s possible to tell, LC has never prosecuted anybody for close passing a cyclist- how do you get any closer than this?

    https://upride.cc/incident/pe62eom_focus_closepass/

    As for the 207 prosecutions out of 284 OpSnap submissions! They’re fixing the figures obviously. It will be something like discounting all the submissions they didn’t consider ‘suitable’

    Log In or Register to post comments

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

 

 

Read more...

Barcelona to ban private bike share schemes from 2027, as mayor slams e-bike parking “mess”
Barcelona to ban private bike share schemes from 2027, as mayor slams e-bike parking “mess”
news
0
LIVE BLOG
Police launch road safety operation… by clamping down on cyclists using footbridge; Reaction to government’s Active Travel Strategy; Dauphiné sprint + more on the live blog
Police launch road safety operation… by clamping down on cyclists using footbridge; Reaction to government’s Active Travel Strategy; Dauphiné sprint + more on the live blog
news
13
Is Avinox’s super powerful motor too much for gravel? The Megamo Along e-gravel bike boasts the drive system everyone is talking about, plus clearance for 50mm tyres
Is Avinox’s super powerful motor too much for gravel? The Megamo Along e-gravel bike boasts the drive system everyone is talking about, plus clearance for 50mm tyres
Megamo has brought the very latest Avinox drive systems to gravel with its new Along e-gravel bike. But might this be too much for humbler gravel riding?
tech news
0
I tried to beat Wout Van Aert in a UCI gravel race
I tried to beat Wout Van Aert in a UCI gravel race
Surprisingly, the 2026 Paris–Roubaix and multiple Tour de France stage winner came out on top! Find out more about the Cube Nuroad C:62 EX gravel bike that Liam used to conquer the epic Marly Grav Race
blog
0
Coospo Realroad CS600 GPS Bike Computer
Coospo Realroad CS600 GPS Bike Computer
Good screen and great for general duties, but can be clunky and a little lacking in features
review
2
“Drivers kill five people every day. Cyclists hardly kill anybody”: Police chiefs accused of ignoring “massive imbalance” as new campaign brands road safety “a shared duty” and officers crack down on rule-breaking riders
“Drivers kill five people every day. Cyclists hardly kill anybody”: Police chiefs accused of ignoring “massive imbalance” as new campaign brands road safety “a shared duty” and officers crack down on rule-breaking riders
“People just seem to be so angry with cyclists all the time, any excuse to cut them up and they’ll take it,” one cyclist said, as campaigners criticised the police’s “well-intentioned but poorly thought through” safety message
news
0
“No war on motorists”: Dividing cyclists and drivers “a complete waste of time”, insists transport chief – as government pushes for 60% of children to cycle or walk to school with new £4.5bn active travel strategy
“No war on motorists”: Dividing cyclists and drivers “a complete waste of time”, insists transport chief – as government pushes for 60% of children to cycle or walk to school with new £4.5bn active travel strategy
Transport secretary Heidi Alexander says the new strategy, which aims to build 5,000 new safe routes by 2030, will focus on “everyday” travel needs and also includes a target for at least 55% of shorter trips to feature some form of active travel
news
3
Standard ‘exclusive’ with anti-active travel campaigners claims Transport for London “covering up” cycling crashes – weeks after government released figures
Standard ‘exclusive’ with anti-active travel campaigners claims Transport for London “covering up” cycling crashes – weeks after government released figures
The story was published the same day the parliamentary cycling group described the government's upcoming Cycling and Walking Investment Strategy as "imminent"
news
11

Read more...

Is Avinox’s super powerful motor too much for gravel? The Megamo Along e-gravel bike boasts the drive system everyone is talking about, plus clearance for 50mm tyres
Is Avinox’s super powerful motor too much for gravel? The Megamo Along e-gravel bike boasts the drive system everyone is talking about, plus clearance for 50mm tyres
tech news
0
I tried to beat Wout Van Aert in a UCI gravel race
I tried to beat Wout Van Aert in a UCI gravel race
blog
0
From a homegrown bike park to three-time Red Bull Hardline winner: Gracey Hemstreet reveals all on her rapid rise to glory
From a homegrown bike park to three-time Red Bull Hardline winner: Gracey Hemstreet reveals all on her rapid rise to glory
Starting her career on family-run trails, Gracey Hemstreet is leaving quite the mark on elite downhill racing at a young age. We caught up with her to learn more about her rise to DH fame, and her goals moving forward
feature
0
Scott goes Bold with new Spark RC featuring reworked integrated shock design
Scott goes Bold with new Spark RC featuring reworked integrated shock design
New cross-country bike takes a leaf out of Scott-aquired Bold Cycles' book chasing a lower centre of gravity
tech news
0
Downhill tech comes to… gravel? Rimpact unveils gravel-specific Tuned Mass Damper
Downhill tech comes to… gravel? Rimpact unveils gravel-specific Tuned Mass Damper
The TMD Gravel claims to bring a smoother ride to all types of gravel bikes
tech news
5
Tailfin HydroMount
Tailfin HydroMount
Simple, secure and effective way to add extra storage
review
0
“Most cargo bikes are built to haul stuff. Levo 4 X is built to haul ass”: The Specialized Levo 4 X goes bikepacking
“Most cargo bikes are built to haul stuff. Levo 4 X is built to haul ass”: The Specialized Levo 4 X goes bikepacking
If there's not already enough versions of Specialized's Levo 4 around, the brand has unveiled another and it's primed for bikepacking adventures and yes, it's a Levo 4 but with racks
tech news
5
Everyone is talking about 32-inch wheels… but can you actually buy 32-inch bikes and kit right now? Here’s everything we know about that caters for cycling’s trendiest new wheel size
Everyone is talking about 32-inch wheels… but can you actually buy 32-inch bikes and kit right now? Here’s everything we know about that caters for cycling’s trendiest new wheel size
Fancy a dip into the 32-inch wheel waters? Here's most of the 32-inch gear we know of that's readily available, including bikes, tyres and wheels
feature
11

Read more...

Barcelona to ban private bike share schemes from 2027, as mayor slams e-bike parking “mess”
Barcelona to ban private bike share schemes from 2027, as mayor slams e-bike parking “mess”
news
0
Megamo launches dedicated e-road bike powered by super-powerful Avinox motor
Megamo launches dedicated e-road bike powered by super-powerful Avinox motor
tech news
5
“Most cargo bikes are built to haul stuff. Levo 4 X is built to haul ass”: The Specialized Levo 4 X goes bikepacking
“Most cargo bikes are built to haul stuff. Levo 4 X is built to haul ass”: The Specialized Levo 4 X goes bikepacking
If there's not already enough versions of Specialized's Levo 4 around, the brand has unveiled another and it's primed for bikepacking adventures and yes, it's a Levo 4 but with racks
tech news
5
E-bike operators including Lime and Forest slapped with £210,000 in fines for sloppy parking, plus Mercian is making an e-bike, Bosch launches certification system + more
E-bike operators including Lime and Forest slapped with £210,000 in fines for sloppy parking, plus Mercian is making an e-bike, Bosch launches certification system + more
We've heavy fines for Lime and Forest, but a lighter bike from Tenways for you in this week's round-up of all things e-bike
feature
0
“A serious risk of injuries”: recall for Specialized Turbo Como SL e-bikes announced in the UK due to failing fork steerer tubes – months after US recall notice
“A serious risk of injuries”: recall for Specialized Turbo Como SL e-bikes announced in the UK due to failing fork steerer tubes – months after US recall notice
The Office for Product Safety and Standards says affected Turbo Como SL bikes pose a serious injury risk after a fault was identified that could cause the fork to fail; Specialized first announced a problem in January
tech news
3
The next big thing in bike manufacturing? Flit claims adhesive bonding helped it to make a lighter and tighter folding e-bike
The next big thing in bike manufacturing? Flit claims adhesive bonding helped it to make a lighter and tighter folding e-bike
Flit has unveiled what it claims is the first folding e-bike to use adhesive bonding rather than traditional welds. So, is the future of bike building looking stickier? Flit's managing director certainly thinks so
tech news
22
After Porsche-owned Fazua’s demise, YT Industries confirms it will still provide parts and support for customers with Fazua-equipped e-MTBs
After Porsche-owned Fazua’s demise, YT Industries confirms it will still provide parts and support for customers with Fazua-equipped e-MTBs
In a fresh statement, YT Industries has confirmed that it'll continue its support for its Fazua-equipped Decoy SN e-MTBs
news
0
Lime U-turns after allowing delivery cyclists to exceed ‘go-slow’ speed limits in busy London parks and high streets
Lime U-turns after allowing delivery cyclists to exceed ‘go-slow’ speed limits in busy London parks and high streets
The electric hire bike provider lifted the restrictions as part of an effort to attract cyclists who would otherwise use illegally-modified electric motorbikes
news
1

Latest Comments

Gm_Crop 5 hours ago

I'll counter that by saying the Bryton 750se I have drives me nuts at times. Inconsistantly picks up on routes created on Komoot and the app re-syncs every few seconds when trying to set up the device and sends me back to the home screen. The most infuriating one is that I turned live track on. Once. It now won't turn off and repeatedly flags up the live track is starting, and then disconnecting every few seconds whilst riding. I haven't timed it but it wouldn't suprise me if 10-20% of the time the the screen is covered with an error message. That's been about 6 weeks now. Other than that it's great :/

in: Coospo Realroad CS600 GPS Bike Computer
IanGlasgow 5 hours ago

RE: Police launch road safety operation... by clamping down on cyclists using footbridge Meanwhile in Glasgow, Police Scotland are riding their motorbikes over the pedestrian and cyclists only bridge. https://x.com/FietserGlasgow/status/2065106152917012523?s=20

in: Police launch road safety operation… by clamping down on cyclists using footbridge; Reaction to government’s Active Travel Strategy; Dauphiné sprint + more on the live blog
Rendel Harris 6 hours ago

@Paul J Van Schip certainly seems a bit of a dick, but he's a European and multiple World Champion on the track, pretty sure you don't get there without having some talent in your legs.

in: Police launch road safety operation… by clamping down on cyclists using footbridge; Reaction to government’s Active Travel Strategy; Dauphiné sprint + more on the live blog
Bill H 6 hours ago

Poor Vincent cannot get over the simple fact that given the choice people prefer dedicated cycling spaces, rather than pretending to be cars like vehicular cyclists.

in: Standard ‘exclusive’ with anti-active travel campaigners claims Transport for London “covering up” cycling crashes – weeks after government released figures
pbunyon 6 hours ago

What is the point of the fancy air sensor if it can't account for changing weather conditions?? If all you care about is a delayed approximation of aerodynamic watts in steady conditions, you don't need any special sensors for that. Just your speed on a decently flat course is enough to approximate rolling resistance and drivetrain losses. And the rest must be aero. If you assume a less aero body position at the same watts, your speed will drop while rolling resistance also drops, which means approximated aero watts goes up. And that's enough to demonstrate what you've shown in your testing protocol ("I sat upright and the number went up a little while later").

in: Could correcting your aero position in real time really unlock free speed? I put the new Wasted Watts Tracker to the test to find out
chrisonabike 7 hours ago

Your correction is accurate - it's almost always been "the (lack of) thought that (doesn't) count". "Massive" - less than a billion a year spent on active travel (trying to catch up / building a network across the entire country) Not massive - 6 billion every year (2026-2030) spent on road *maintenance* of existing "already built, goes everywhere, very convenient" road network for inactive travel Ultimately the reason "cycle infra" is *needed* is those unbelievably colossal amounts spent every year (and for more than a century now) on making mass motoring not just viable but apparently the "best choice" for most journeys. As the Dutch and others have shown, the majority of people *are* prepared to cycle and even mix with very light, slow local motor traffic *if* cycling is also made safe and convenient for the whole of their journey (including secure parking at both ends). (The history of the financial drivers of the current situation are a complex topic but note that while people complain about "crumbling roads" and underfunded motor infra - with some reason - by us continuing the fuel duty escalator freeze (for example) we're actually helping motorists pay *even less* for that activity / subsidising more of the cost of driving than ever.)

in: “No war on motorists”: Dividing cyclists and drivers “a complete waste of time”, insists transport chief – as government pushes for 60% of children to cycle or walk to school with new £4.5bn active travel strategy
belugabob 7 hours ago

yes, but people will still object - which was my point.

in: Police launch road safety operation… by clamping down on cyclists using footbridge; Reaction to government’s Active Travel Strategy; Dauphiné sprint + more on the live blog
Astralstroll 9 hours ago

So ' Priority of Road Users' and 1.5 metre clearance at 30mph has been been reduced to 'sharing'? NCN route 2 here in South Hams is an absolute scream with white vans, tractors and total idiots who refuse,or are totally incapable,to reverse on high Devon banked lanes ...means you have to get off and pedal back to a passing place....could be at that all day...so I don't bother...

in: “Drivers kill five people every day. Cyclists hardly kill anybody”: Police chiefs accused of ignoring “massive imbalance” as new campaign brands road safety “a shared duty” and officers crack down on rule-breaking riders
Mr Anderson 10 hours ago

@MaxiMinimalist Agreed. The big problem I see now is today's parents grew up being driven to their schools, and therefore, see private motor vehicles as the only viable form of transport. The vast majority of UK infant and primary schools have a catchment area that is within easy walking distance from home to school. Yet, the traffic caused by pupils being driven to/from school is astonishing. Banishing the "School Run" should be a priority for all schools.

in: “No war on motorists”: Dividing cyclists and drivers “a complete waste of time”, insists transport chief – as government pushes for 60% of children to cycle or walk to school with new £4.5bn active travel strategy
MaxiMinimalist 11 hours ago

When I was a kid (that was during the previous millenium when phones were connected to a plug in the wall), I rode my bicycle to school, music academy, sport grounds, parties even during the winter. The government didn't have to spend, correct that, didn't have to think of spending massive amounts of money to build cycling specific infrastructures. Over the past 3 or 4 decades, cars have grown bigger, taller, safer (for their drivers) and faster. Meanwhile, motorists have become abusive, aggressive, hypersensitive to people moving on two wheels, aka cyclists. Spending billions upon billions on new infrastructure won't address the crux of the matter. Sadly.

in: “No war on motorists”: Dividing cyclists and drivers “a complete waste of time”, insists transport chief – as government pushes for 60% of children to cycle or walk to school with new £4.5bn active travel strategy

Most Popular News

1. Barcelona to ban private bike share schemes from 2027, as mayor slams e-bike parking “mess”

2. “Drivers kill five people every day. Cyclists hardly kill anybody”: Police chiefs accused of ignoring “massive imbalance” as new campaign brands road safety “a shared duty” and officers crack down on rule-breaking riders

3. “No war on motorists”: Dividing cyclists and drivers “a complete waste of time”, insists transport chief – as government pushes for 60% of children to cycle or walk to school with new £4.5bn active travel strategy

4. Police launch road safety operation… by clamping down on cyclists using footbridge; Reaction to government’s Active Travel Strategy; Dauphiné sprint + more on the live blog

5. Standard ‘exclusive’ with anti-active travel campaigners claims Transport for London “covering up” cycling crashes – weeks after government released figures

6. Drivers told to “go a slightly different route” to stop rat-running on proposed family cycle loop

7. “It looks like it’d fail to meet the minimum handlebar width for the UCI”: bike lane narrower than its own cycle symbol branded “absurd”; Vauquelin suggests Netcompany Ineos sacrificed stage win to wait for Oscar Onley + more on the live blog

8. “This is not a luxury cycle route”: Councillor calls for “vital” improvements to “terrifying” cycle track

Award-winning cycling news, reviews and buying advice

QUICK LINKS

  • About us
  • News
  • Reviews
  • Buyers Guides
  • Features
  • Tech
  • Forum
  • Opinion
  • Podcast
  • Recommends
  • Shop
  • Bicycle Insurance

FOLLOW US ON

rcc-facebook
rcc-youtube
rcc-insta
rcc-threads
rcc-bluesky
rcc-whatsapp
rcc-rss

Our Websites

GET IN TOUCH

Editorial, general: info@road.cc
Tech, reviews: tech@road.cc
Advertising, commercial: sales@fat.digital
View our media pack

Privacy policy

Support us

Subscribe

All material © Farrelly Atkinson (F-At) Limited, Unit 7b Green Park Station BA11JB. Tel 01225 588855. © 2008–present unless otherwise stated. Terms and conditions of use

offroad_logo
Mountain bike and gravel cycling reviews, news and advice

QUICK LINKS

  • About us
  • News
  • Reviews
  • Buyers Guides
  • Features
  • Trail Guides
  • Blog

FOLLOW US ON

rcc-facebook
rcc-youtube
rcc-insta
rcc-threads
rcc-bluesky
rcc-rss

Our Websites

roadcc-logo

GET IN TOUCH

Editorial, tech and reviews: info@off.road.cc
Advertising, commercial: sales@fat.digital
View our media pack

Privacy policy

Support us

Subscribe

All material © Farrelly Atkinson (F-At) Limited, Unit 7b Green Park Station BA11JB. Tel 01225 588855. © 2008–present unless otherwise stated. Terms and conditions of use

Electric bike reviews, news and advice

QUICK LINKS

  • About us
  • News
  • Reviews
  • Buyers Guides
  • Features
  • Blog

FOLLOW US ON

rcc-facebook
rcc-youtube
rcc-insta
rcc-threads
rcc-bluesky
rcc-rss

Our Websites

roadcc-logo

GET IN TOUCH

Editorial, tech and reviews: info@ebiketips.road.cc
Advertising, commercial: sales@fat.digital
View our media pack

Privacy policy

Support us

Subscribe

All material © Farrelly Atkinson (F-At) Limited, Unit 7b Green Park Station BA11JB. Tel 01225 588855. © 2008–present unless otherwise stated. Terms and conditions of use