A saucepan, a garden spade or a backpack. Three utilitarian items that, when well designed, perform their job without even so much as a modicum of fuss. So well in fact that you may never notice their intricacies or foibles....
Commuting by bike is made more comfortable by riding with the optimal tire pressure. Beginners will need to know where on the tire to find the manufacturer’s recommended amount of inflation. From there, they can work towards finding a sweet...
Bike pedals help to convert the power of our legs into the effort needed to turn the wheels forward. They need to be comfortable for commuting and ideally, non-slip, so we can reliably step on and off as we go...
Bike tires (or tyres) lose air more rapidly than vehicle versions due to size, shape, material, and a constant pressure forcing air out of them. The day-to-day hazards of punctures are easier to identify, so it can be frustrating to...
A smooth-running bike chain is the heart of your well-oiled machine. Your energy is propelled by it. Its metallic silence provides you with a backdrop of pure joy when you are out in the countryside. The chain is your link...
Keeping your bike chain in good working order should be a priority. The average chain will give you between 3,000 and 8,000 kilometres, depending on use. It does a straightforward job, but there’s a lot happening to ensure it synchronises...
Bicycle wheels must be robust and tolerant. Their cost fluctuates from the cheap, to the equivalent of a second hand car. They’re responsible for acceleration, stability, ride comfort and braking. These rotating rims are mass-produced or luxuriously created by artisans...
If you own a bicycle then chances are that you’ve had your bike serviced at some point, whether that be by a bike shop or by a solo mechanic. But, did you know that a lot of servicing is easy...
Rain, sweat, mud and more. Our helmets bear the brunt of the elements and our body when we cycle. We usually wash our clothes (and ourselves!) after we’ve been out for a ride but have you ever wondered if you...
Bicycle tyres (or tires) are one of the most important parts of your ride. They are the only bit that touches the surface you travel along. They provide grip, comfort, puncture-resistance, and a certainty that you should be able to...
The bike’s seat is one of its most important components and having one to suit you and your riding style is vital. Also known as the saddle (depending on your vintage), once you have found a seat which works well,...
Bicycle frames are hollow thanks to the genius of design, the intelligence of science and the power of engineering. The iconic ‘double diamond’ frame shape hasn’t really changed in over 125 years. However, the components and materials used to manufacture...
Shimano are a Japanese company, and world-leaders in supplying engineered moving components that are bolted or fixed onto a bicycle. Celebrating their 100th anniversary in 2021, with forecasted sales in 2022 of ¥580billion (£3.5billion/$4.3billion), this company has developed a market-leading...
Within most bike shops, whether a chain or privately owned, you will have most likely seen a bike servicing list. But what is a bike service? For many, this may be a bit of a daunting list which might not...
I’m sure I’m not alone in my firm resolve to keep my bike clean, lubed and degreased regularly. I’m also fairly certain I’m not alone in that this unwavering commitment seems to somehow ebb away over time. Needless to say,...
Much like there are more than one type of bicycle, there is more than one type of chain. Given the importance of its function of transferring power from the pedals to the drive-wheel at the rear of the bicycle, you...
There are many ways in which you can decipher someone’s age without asking them. Any trip down memory lane that comes with a musical reference. Or how it was to watch a football match. Perhaps one of the most telling...
Drying your bicycle before you dry yourself or your clothes might not be seen as a high priority. Unless you’re wearing a sou’wester, or you can slink between the raindrops, you will want to dry yourself first before thinking about...
Whether your bicycle is no longer needed or you’re replacing a part, the good news is that various bicycle parts need not go to landfill. Of course, if you’ve got an old bike that you no longer use but still...
Tubeless tyres have been around for over a decade for mountain bikes. For road bikes, however, they’re a relatively new option. But are they the best option for your commute? Some people will swear that tubeless technology is the best...
There is a lot on the market with regards to bike pedals and cranks, therefore hopefully with this guide you can narrow down the size of pedal that will fit your bicycle. Are All Bike Pedals the Same Size? Bike...
You might get away with leaving your bike out in the rain for a few days, but it’s best if you avoid it. We know the feeling — skidding through puddles of water and riding in the rain might make...
At any time, but particularly during a pandemic, a bicycle work stand should be an essential for any keen cyclist. Bike shops may still be open during the COVID-19 crisis, but bicycle stands for home use will save you time...
I’m a bad boy. Dirty, filthy and far from smooth. Because when it comes to bike maintenance, I, well… I just don’t do it until it’s too late. My “bicycle maintenance” is essentially me riding my bike into the ground...
1. 🪖Fend ONE Folding Helmet
A folding helmet that actually looks good.
2. 🧥Helly Hansen Hooded Rain Jacket
Stay dry in style.
3. 🧴Muc-Off Ultimate Bicycle Cleaning Kit
Keep your bike feeling brand new.
4. 👖DUER-All Weather Jeans
Waterproof cycling jeans. Seriously.
5. 🎒Rapha Reflective Backpack
A beautiful backpack that you can't miss.
