Least At: Saddle Sure Glide To Work

Magic roundabouts n Cycling myths busted n Electric bikes
Issue #14
1.95 where sold
Spring/Summer 2015
Save
at
least 25%
on a bike for work
Saddle sure
Aches & pains? Read this
Glide to work
How to ride slower & arrive faster
FEA TUR ING
47
TOP CYC LIN G
Inside this issue
n Hybrids n Road bikes
n Locks n Casual shorts
PR OD UC TS n Panniers n & more!
O N E P O I N T F I V E . W I N YO U R C O M M U T E .
The 1.5 is the best of both worlds:

a go-fast, race ready machine
combined with a reliable commute steed.
Designed to the same rigourous standards as
its carbon siblings, the 1.5 is strong,
light, and built to fly over tarmac.
750 trekbikes.com
ALL ABO
Welcome to
U T. ..
Contents
Cyclescheme 5 Issue #14 Spring/Summer 2015
How Cyclescheme works, whos
eligible to take part, and how
you go about getting the bike
How the Cycle to

Work scheme will
save you money 6
Why getting a bike through your
employer makes a whole lot of sense
F E AT U R E S
How to: get
32 BIKE ROUND-UPS
your Cyclescheme
package 14
In-store or online what's best for you?
How to: negotiate

roundabouts 17
Skills to make roundabouts
easier and safer
How to: ride slower

& arrive faster 21
48 56
How the cycling tortoise Flat-bar road bikes 32
can beat the hares These lightweight city hybrids combine speed and
efficiency with the reassuring control of a flat handlebar
Get comfortable 40 Electric bikes 48

Sore bum and tingling hands? Electric bikes often cost more than 1,000, but it's still
Solutions here possible to get one through Cyclescheme. Here's how
Road bikes 56
Cycling myths 52 A drop-bar race bike is ideal for fitness riding and summer
and the facts you need to answer them weekends, and can be used as a quick commuter
TOP PRODUCTS & ESSENTIAL KIT

The Cyclescheme 7:
Tony Mawson 60 Stuff 12
The best gear for your commute and beyond
Choosing an e-bike to help with hills
Mountain bike essentials 24
The kit to get with your second
My Cyclescheme 62 Cyclescheme voucher
Go online to get more from Cyclescheme
Locks 29
Shackle locks to secure your bike
Thanks to Bristol & Bath Science Park for location photography
Panniers 37
Bags for your bike, not your back
Cyclescheme is part of the Grass Roots Group

Casual shorts 45
Published for Cyclescheme by Farrelly Atkinson www.f-at.co.uk The summer alternative to Lycra
Prices correct at time of going to press. E&OE. All content Cyclescheme 2015
www.cyclescheme.co.uk 3
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Welcome
Whos it for?
Want to take part? Great! If youve received this mag from
your employer then theyre probably already running a
scheme, so things should be straightforward. There are
some limits as to who can take advantage of the tax breaks,
though.
The most important ones are:

You need to be a UK taxpayer via the PAYE system
You need to be 18 years of age or over to comply with
Consumer Credit Act legislation

16 to 18 year olds may be eligible for Cyclescheme
enrollment with the aid of a guarantor
If your earnings are equivalent to the national
minimum wage, you may be able to benefit from a
discount as part of a net arrangement with your employer
If your employer is not signed up, invite them here:
http://cycsch.me/invite
About
Cyclescheme...
Cyclescheme helps you save money on a new bike for work.
Get on board and save at least 25% on your next bike!
Cyclescheme offers big simple salary sacrifice arrangement you access to a massive amount
savings on the best bikes with your employer. The way it works of choice and expert advice on
is simple - you give up part of your equipment selection. To locate your
and kit. Dealing with
salary and receive an equivalent local store, or to browse the online
Cycleschemes network benefit that is exempt from Income options available to you, head to
of over 2,000 retailers Tax and National Insurance. cyclescheme.co.uk/retailers.
gives you the widest What does this mean in practice? Cyclescheme runs schemes with
choice of equipment. Well, technically its your employer the BBC, Google, Rolls-Royce, The
It's also the most who buys the bike. You then hire Department of Health, and HMRC
convenient, easy and the bike and accessories from your as well as scores of police forces,
enjoyable way of getting employer, and pay back the cost of councils, universities, blue-chip
the bike from your gross salary (before companies, and many government
a new bike or accessories
tax). You save on Tax and NI payments, departments too. So come on in,
for cycling to work.
T
lowering the amount you repay over put your feet up, and let us give
he Cycle to Work scheme the hire period and resulting in an you a guided tour of the bikes, the
allows you to save money overall saving of at least 25%. accessories, and the savings that are
on the cost of a new bike Cyclescheme works with over on offer when you join Cyclescheme.
and accessories through a 2,000 retailers across the UK, giving Happy cycling!
Spring/Summer 2015
Save money!
with Cyclescheme
Four steps to save at least
25% on a bike for work
T
ax is complicated; Cyclescheme is not. You choose a
bike, hire it for an agreed length of time, then snap it
up for a fraction of its original value. It's like a year-
round sale, with interest free credit available in 2,000
retailers nationwide. Weve worked hard to provide a transparent
and easy to understand process. There are just four steps to go
through to get a bike for work through Cyclescheme.
Choose your Cyclescheme package

1 What bike and equipment do you want? Consider your
commute. How far is it? What route will you take? Be
honest with yourself. What are your priorities? What accessories
might you need? Get stuck into the rest of the mag to find answers
to all these questions and more!
Remember, if youre visiting a retailer they can give you expert
one-to-one advice; if you shop online,
do your research, check reviews and
make sure you get your bike sizing
correct. Head to http://cycsch.me/retail
to choose your store or online retailer
and get planning.
Submit your application

2 This couldnt be easier. If your employer is signed up
with Cyclescheme, theyll have a unique employer
code to use when you apply via cyclescheme.co.uk. If your employer
isnt signed up, they can join for free in
just a few clicks. Point them here:
http://cycsch.me/emp.
On the application page, youll be
guided through a simple form that asks
for your work details, contact information,
and the value of the Cyclescheme
Certificate youre applying for. Hit submit,
and your employer will receive a copy of
6 www.cyclescheme.co.uk
Save money with Cyclescheme
your application to approve. Youll also get a copy of Quick-fire questions

your Hire Agreement.
How much will I save
Get your Cyclescheme
3
with Cyclescheme?
Package At least 25%. If youre a higher rate
With your application approved and taxpayer, you can save at least 35%.
paid for (by your employer), its time to exchange
your Cyclescheme Certificate for your Cyclescheme What can I buy through
Package. Contact your retailer and arrange a time to the scheme?
Almost any item you need to cycle to work.
pop in and pick up your equipment. If you shopped
Obviously the bike, but also accessories
online, your package can be delivered to an address
such as lights, locks, helmet and clothing.
that suits you, or you can opt for the click-and-collect If you already have a bike, you can even
service that some retailers offer. just apply for the accessories.
Your salary sacrifice and Hire Agreement now kicks
in. For the next 12 months, youll pay a set amount How is my salary
from your salary each month in exchange for the hire sacrifice calculated?
of your Cyclescheme package from your employer. By dividing the total Cyclescheme
The deduction is made from your package price by the length of your
gross salary, so you make Hire Agreement. Usually, this means 12
income tax and payments taken from your salary, over a
12-month period.
national insurance
savings (32%
Whats a Cyclescheme
standard rate, 42% eCertificate?
higher rate). A voucher. Its what you give to the bike
retailer in exchange for your chosen bike
Transfer of ownership
4 When the Hire Agreement and salary
sacrifice ends, you can keep your
and equipment. We send you this by email.
Ive paid for the bike,

Cyclescheme package by making a final payment. why dont I own it?
It's a small amount, however. For a Cyclescheme Simple answer: tax. In order to protect
package under 500, you'll pay 3% of the original your income tax and national insurance
value; for a package over 500, it's 7% so a savings, an additional transfer of
maximum of 70 on a 1,000 package. The bike ownership fee needs to be paid. The
remains hired for a further 36 months, but with no Government have set out guidelines for
more monthly payments. Ownership can then be how this works.
officially transferred to you at no extra cost.
How is the transfer of
The transfer of ownership payment is why you
ownership payment
save a minimum of 25% rather than a minimum
calculated?
of 32%. Many Cyclescheme There is a set percentage applied,
participants will save depending on the age of your bike
more. For a personalised package. At 4 years old, the value is set at
savings figure, visit 3% (original value less than 500) or
http://cycsch.me/calc 7% (more than 500).
and enter your details.
Whats a Hire Agreement?
This is an agreement between you and
Still have questions? Were here to help! your employer. It states you will be hiring
Contact us on info@cyclescheme.co.uk, the equipment from them during the
or visit the FAQs on our website period of your salary sacrifice.
http://cycsch.me/faq
Spring/Summer 2015
News
Cycle
to
Work
Day 2015 cyclists. That growth can start with
events like Cycle to Work Day, as it
R
emember, remember the on the type of calendar you use encourages people to give cycling
3rd of September: that's Microsoft Outlook, Apple iCal, or a go.
the date for this year's Google Calendar. Cycle to Work Day If you're keen to get involved
Cycle to Work Day. This will instantly be added to your diary. sooner rather than later, we'd love to
year we want to have an even bigger If you're old school, it's time to find a hear from you. Join the conversation on
run up to the day and make sure pen and the wall calendar or pocket Facebook (facebook.com/cycletoworkday)
we get the most from the fantastic diary of your choice. and Twitter (@cycletoworkday) or send us
success of the previous two years. At Cycle to Work Day HQ, we want an email: info@cycletoworkday.org.
Before we get ahead of ourselves and to see one
go into too much detail, we wanted to million
let everyone know when everything people
will be happening. regularly cycle
Do put the date in your diary now, commuting by
before you forget. It's a Thursday, so if 2021, which is
you're a regular cycle commuter you when the next
might not think you need a reminder, census will take
but you wouldn't want that to be the place. To achieve
one day you didn't cycle to work! this, we need to
To make things easy, we have set see an exponential
up some calendar invites online. Go growth in the number
to cycletoworkday.org/2015 and click of people becoming everyday
News
Cyclescheme's
10 th birthday
O
n Valentines Day this
year, Cyclescheme
turned 10 years old.
What a decade it's been!
We've now helped more than half a
million people cement their love of
cycling by getting a bike to ride to
work on.
A lot has changed in the world
of cycling over the last ten years,
particularly in terms of cycling to work.
The Cycle to Work scheme started out
as a small piece of the Green Transport
Plan, which itself formed part of the
much larger 1999 Finance Act. It
became hugely popular, reinvigorating
the UK cycle market and and turning
many casual cyclists into cycle
commuters.
Since its inception in 2005,
Cyclescheme has been at the forefront
of this salary sacrifice scheme.
Started by savvy bike shop owners, Cyclescheme operates schemes services like Computingscheme
Richard Grigsby and Gary Cooper for over 40,000 clients across the and Childcarescheme into its
(above right), Cyclescheme went country and just recently passed the portfolio, enabling employers of
from running a small operation for momentous milestone of having all shapes and sizes to offer a more
local employers in its home town of helped over 500,000 people get a comprehensive benefits package.
Bath, to running schemes for large bike for work. With more developments
multi-national organisations across Now in its 10th year, and added benefits on their way,
the UK. The growth in cycling to work Cyclescheme has big plans for Cyclescheme continues to forge
really began to bear fruit when, in the future. Never one to rest on its ahead with its innovative, high-
2009, Cyclescheme was awarded the laurels, Cyclescheme has continued tech approach to salary sacrifice
FastTrack 100 award as the fastest to embrace the world of employee benefits. Heres to another 10
growing company in the UK. benefits and, since becoming expert years. Heres to going from
Now part of the Grass Roots family, in salary sacrifice, has brought new good to great!
Spring/Summer 2015
The
Love to Ride www.lovetoride.net/uk
I
n 2015, Love to Ride, CTC and
Cyclescheme will invite 20,000
businesses to take part in the
first National Workplace Cycle
Challenge. The Love to Ride Challenge
Challenge
organisations and a range of individual Laurence Boon commented: We are
will be a competition between and team prizes. very excited to be supporting Love
organisations across the UK to see who Local Authorities can sign up to to Ride. Their focus on behaviour
can get the most staff to try riding a support and boost participation in change and encouraging a modal
bike. their area, whatever budget they have shift in commuting habits is very
The Challenge will run from 8-28 to promote cycling. closely aligned to what we are trying to
June and will be a major annual event Love to Ride, CTC and Cyclescheme achieve here at Cyclescheme.'
in the cycling calendar. The aim is to together have 157 years experience of Love to Ride recruit Challenge
get as many people as possible to ride promoting cycling. CTC, the national Champions regular cyclists who
a bike. People can ride anywhere, any cycling charity, has 67,000 members encourage their colleagues to try riding
time during the Challenge period. and was formed in 1878 when cycling to promote their Challenges. John
Organisations will compete on local was emerging as a mass mode of Cooper, Sony Mobiles Champion for
and national league tables to see who transport and leisure pursuit. Love the London Cycle Challenge 2014, said:
can get the highest proportion of their to Ride have run Workplace Cycle It was fantastic to find a competition
staff to ride for at least ten minutes. Challenges on three continents and which wasn't about riding marathon
They will be able to compete engaged 115,000 people. Over the distances, but about participation and
between offices in different last 12 years they have developed a team effort.
locations around the UK and against unique behaviour change model and To find out more about the
similarly-sized companies. Its free for accompanying website and mobile National Cycle Challenge and see
organisations and individuals to take app. Cyclescheme you already know! the great prizes you can win, go to
part. There are six size categories for Cyclescheme Marketing Manager lovetoride.net/uk.
www.merida.com
www.facebook.com/meridauk
Lifetime warranty on all frames.
* Applies to frames manufactured since 2011 croSSwaY range from 299.99 to 849.99 (model shown 549.99)
Spring/Summer 2015
STUFF
Bringing you the very best

cycling gear for your daily
commute and beyond
PDW
Full Metal
Fenders 75 | : 56.25
These 45mm-wide, full-length aluminium
guards suit tyres up to 32mm and are long
enough to keep feet and following riders dry.
There's a 30mm option to fit close-clearance
road bikes. paligap.cc
Osprey Flap Jack Courier

RRP: 50 | Cyclescheme price: 37.50
A removable waist strap stops this ballistic nylon
shoulder bag from swinging about on the bike. Inside,
there's a padded sleeve for laptops up to 15in, plus Bloc Cobra
pockets for all your odds and ends. ospreyeurope.com
X20 with Smoke Lens
24.99 | : 18.74
As well as stopping dazzle from sunlight,
cycling glasses keep wind, dust and insects
out of your eyes. They can cost huge sums
but, as these Bloc ones show, they don't have
to. fisheroutdoor.co.uk
Bontrager BackRack
Lightweight
49.99 | : 37.49
Put panniers or a rackpack on your road
bike: this rear rack can fit to frame eyelets
but doesnt require them, attaching
instead to the wheels quick release and
the rear brake bolt. bontrager.com
Stuff
Cyclescheme price
The Cyclescheme price is the most
Polaris RBS you will pay for a given item, including
Pack Me Jacket Transfer of Ownership fees. Price
assumes you are a standard rate
54.99 | : 41.24 taxpayer; higher rate taxpayers
Small enough to fit in a jersey will pay less.
pocket, this windproof jacket is part
of Polaris Bikewear's Really Bright Stuff
range: the body is yellow and there's abundant
reflective detailing. polaris-bikewear.co.uk
Lezyne KTV Pro Drive (pair)

34.99 | : 26.24
Back-up 'be seen' lights prevent a long walk home if your
main lamps fail. These are USB rechargeable, fit any bike,
weigh next to nothing, and, at up to 70 lumens, are bright.
upgradebikes.co.uk
FLAB All Black

Ey Up Bib Shorts
59.99 | : 44.99
You can't beat bib-shorts
for long-ride comfort. Not
all brands are available in
broader-in-the-beam sizes.
As you might expect, Fat
Lad At the Back bib shorts
Axiom Gran are: from 28in up to 48in
Fondo H20 Seat Bag waist. fatladattheback.com
30 | : 22.50
Need room in your seatpack for sandwiches
and a cycling jacket as well as a spare tube
and tools? This tall Axiom bag holds two Continental
litres of kit, plus a water bottle. You'll need Touring Plus Tyres
20cm of exposed seatpost. paligap.cc 29.95 each | : 22.46
A thick layer of elastic rubber
under the tread makes these
hard-wearing tyres virtually
impregnable to punctures.
Sizes: 28-47mm in 700C, plus
26x1.75in. conti-tyres.co.uk
Spring/Summer 2015
How to
Get your
Cyclescheme
package
There are two ways to get a bike and
accessories through Cyclescheme: on the high
street or online. Which is best for you? Read on
I
nternet shopping may be In store
changing the face of the Customer retention is important for any business; for the high street bike shop,
high street, but there's it's their bread and butter. They want to turn you into a cyclist and not simply
one area of retailing where sell you a bike, because that way: you'll be back to buy spares, consumables,
bricks-and-mortar shops will or second or third bikes; you'll bring your bike in to be serviced; and you'll give
continue to co-exist with their word-of-mouth recommendations in the local area. That and the fact that
online counterparts: cycling. most bike shop owners are nice people! is why they'll give you personal, one-
Each has its advantages. Buying to-one service.
a bike online can be quicker and You don't need to know exactly what to buy before you go through
more economical, but buying in the door; the staff can ask questions and guide you towards the
store gives you access to services most suitable bike at your price point. They can also suggest the
advice, bike set-up, and repair accessories you'll need. For commuting this is really important, as
that digital shops don't offer. most bikes don't come with the mudguards, luggage, lock, and
The good news is that you can lights you'll need for the journey to work. The shop can also fit
use your Cyclescheme voucher in these accessories for you, so tools and technical know-how are
store or online. Just look for the not required.
Cyclescheme logo. The scheme As well as advice on the type and model of bike, you can
works the same way whichever also get advice on sizing and fit. Some shops will offer a free or
way you buy your bike and discounted bike fit when you buy a bike, so that it can be set
accessories; you can find more up just right for you. Those that don't will at least let you sit on
details about that on pages 6 various bikes so that you and they can get a feel for what suits you,
and 7. and most will let you have a test ride too. If you want to change
something on the bike you're planning to get tyres, let's say, or the
saddle the shop will usually be happy to swap that for you at cost.
Once you've got your bike, you can go back to the shop if it ever
How to
needs repairing. Shops offer annual services for bikes too, so How to choose
problems can be nipped in the bud before they develop into If you're not sure what you need (or in what
something worse. size), or if you want the reassurance of a face-
to-face transaction, youre better off going to
Online your local Cyclescheme shop. The help and
Buying online enables you to get a bike that your local shop advice that they can give you is worth more
doesn't stock. If you already know what you want not just 'a than any difference in specification between a
road bike', let's say, but specifically a Giant Defy 3 then buying bike brand they stock and one they dont. On
it online might save you a trip into the next town. Similarly, if you the other hand, if you do know just want you
want a bike that no one else seems to stock, either because it's want, your local shop doesn't have it, and you
an in-house brand or because it's something of a rarity, buying can set it up yourself, you're better off using an
online might be the only practical option. online Cyclescheme shop. But those are the
Online shops often have wider ranges of accessories, and more extreme positions, and many purchasers will
stock of the accessories that they do carry. While bricks-and-mortar fall somewhere in between. Why not check out
shops will be happy to order in products from ranges that they both, then decide? http://cycsch.me/retail
carry, the online shop is more likely to have it right there, right then.
It can be quicker and, if you know what you want, easier to buy
online. Click, click, click, enter your details, and you're done.
You can choose your bike when it's convenient for
you. Eleven thirty on a Sunday night? No problem.
You don't even have to collect, squeezing it
awkwardly into a car boot. Instead, the bike
can be delivered to your door often
for free in a massive cardboard box.
Normally you'll only need to put
the pedals on, turn the handlebar
around, and pump up the tyres.
ARRIVE in style
DISCOVERY | 2015
Dawes Cycles
Discover Your World
Dawes Discovery bikes are true multi purpose machines, capable of
tackling light cinder trails or breezing past the evening traffic. Each
is kitted out with parts from the worlds finest component makers as
well as having mounting points to fit mudguards and carriers.
DISCOVERY > Dawes Dynamism triple butted

alloy hybrid frame
> Tektro Vela hydraulic disc brakes
> Fizik Ardea saddle
View 360 images of the complete
601 > Carbon blade fork > Sram Via Centro crank
2015 Dawes Discovery range at:
www.dawescycles.com
> Sram 20 speed Via Centro gears > Alex Black Dragon rims
> Sram Via Centro shifters > Schwalbe 700x28c Road Plus tyres
> 600mm Alloy flat handlebar
DISCOVERY 401 DISCOVERY 301 Ladies DISCOVERY 201EQ

How to
How to
Negotiate
roundabouts
Impatient drivers,
R
oundabouts are an apology: 'Sorry, mate, I didn't
designed to keep see you'
erratic signalling, traffic moving. Rule #1 for negotiating
and poor road

In theory, they're roundabouts safely is this: stay
straightforward: you approach well clear of the edge of the
layout can make in the lane that goes where you
want to go; you give way to traffic
roundabout, particularly the
Give Way markings, so that
roundabouts approaching from the right; you
signal correctly; you leave the
drivers see you and react to
anything but roundabout. In the real world,
you. Take your lane: ride in the
centre of the relevant lane.
magic. Here's how roundabouts are complicated
by careless driving and You'll then be where drivers
to take control impetuousness. At best you'll get are looking for traffic, not at the
Spring/Summer 2015
edge of the roundabout where they're and speed. It's often better to indicate
not looking. And if a driver does initially as you enter the roundabout and
fail to spot you, both you and they have then again as you approach each
more time to react. exit, rather than sticking your arm
out continuously. With correct road
Discretion or valour? positioning, drivers will be in no doubt
Roundabouts are easier if you ride about where you're going.
assertively, owning your space and
avoiding hesitation. But never assume Types of roundabout
that any other road user will do the Single lane roundabouts are easiest,
right thing. Eyeball approaching as there's no room to pass when you
drivers. If they don't look at you, take the lane.
they've haven't seen you. Be ready. On mini-roundabouts, drivers
You might need to yield, even if it's can drive over the central circle;
your right of way. impatient ones might do so when
Roundabouts are more you're already on the roundabout. So
intimidating if you can't match signal clearly as you approach and join
the speed of other traffic on them, the roundabout. Mini-roundabouts
or if the traffic volume or junction sometimes see a 'standoff' when
complexity is overwhelming. If you're drivers arrive at the same time, unsure
not comfortable on a particular as to who has priority. If possible,
roundabout, don't use it. Design your adjust your speed on the approach so
route to avoid it, even if this means
adding distance. Or get off your bike
Roundabouts you don't have to come to a halt, as
this enables you to take the initiative.
and bypass it as pedestrian. are easier if On multilane roundabouts, take
The approach you ride the leftmost lane that goes where you
want to go. Play close attention to
Whichever direction you're going,
take your lane as you approach.
assertively, road markings! Normally you'll be in
the lefthand lane when going straight
Check over your shoulder, and
when you're still 20-30 metres away,
owning your on, and the righthand lane or a
central lane when going right. Don't
gradually move into the centre of the space and change lanes without looking back.
lane signalling to drivers behind
if necessary. Drivers can't now pull avoiding Slippery surfaces
alongside, and it dissuades them from
racing you to the roundabout and
hesitation Take special care joining and
navigating roundabouts if there has
cutting you up. If possible, adjust your the previous exit on the roundabout. If been rain after a recent dry spell,
speed so that you arrive when there's you're turning right, indicate right on which brings spilled oil to the surface,
a gap in the traffic. That way you won't the approach and as you go onto the or if it's icy. Braking while turning is
have to get back up to speed from a roundabout, then left as you pass the a bad idea on a two-wheeler, unless
dead stop. If that's not possible, shift exit before yours, peeling off gradually you're sure of having traction. When
into a gear you can accelerate away in and taking care that no one is trying to in doubt, reduce speed when you're
before you stop. pass on your left. Eyeball drivers! still going in a straight line, before you
Drivers signal continuously when reach the roundabout.
Signalling going left or right because they have
Signal boldly. If you're turning left, indicators (although many then For more on road positioning,
indicate left on the approach, then forget to indicate left when exiting see the Cyclescheme website:
again before you turn. If you're going the roundabout). On a bike, riding http://cycsch.me/road
straight on, indicate left as you pass one-handed compromises control
How to
RIDE
SLOWER
&arrive
faster
In urban areas, bikes
are faster than cars like
tortoises are faster than
hares. Going faster isn't
about sweating more
but stopping less
W
henever commuter challenges are staged
and a car driver and cyclist are timed over
an urban journey, the cyclist invariably wins.
Bikes are faster than cars around congested
cities. Cars have a higher maximum speed, but cyclists spend
much less time stopped dead so their average speed is
higher. Efficiency is all about average speed.
The secret is not to go fast but to avoid going too slow:
the difference between 30mph and 40mph is negligible in
town; the difference between 10mph and 0mph is massive.
This principle applies just as much to your own journeys if
you want to save time on the way to work. Forget your top
speed, just keep moving as best you can.
Route choice
The route choice with the fewest traffic lights and the fewest
give-way junctions is most likely quickest. Nothing dents
Spring/Summer 2015
If you normally cycle at 15mph, quicker around town. It's legal. You
do need to be alert, and you need to
a single minute spent waiting communicate your intentions clearly
at traffic lights is time that to drivers, since you'll be leaving and
rejoining the traffic stream.
you could have used to It's usually best to overtake on the
travel another quarter right. Drivers can see you more easily in
their mirrors, and it's where they expect
of a mile to be overtaken. Never, ever overtake a
and descend at twice your normal long-vehicle like a lorry or a bus on the
speed. At 15mph, 1 mile would take left. You'll be in the driver's blind spot if
your average speed like standing you 4 minutes. At 7.5mph, 1 mile the vehicle turns left.
still. If you normally cycle at 15mph, a takes 8 minutes; at 30mph, 2 minutes. You can overtake stationary lines
single minute spent waiting at traffic So going over the hill would take of cars on the left, perhaps to get into
lights is time that you could have used 10 minutes, 2 minutes longer than an advanced stop line 'cycle box' at
to travel another quarter of a mile. riding 2 miles on the flat. The flat route traffic lights, but use common sense
That's why backstreets can be quicker would take the same time as the hilly and caution. Don't dive into narrow
even when you're riding further. one even if it were 25% longer. gaps between kerb and cars. Leave
Some backstreets become rat-runs yourself room to manoeuvre. It may
for drivers, but you'll still encounter Anticipation be better to overtake on the right or
less traffic than on the main road Accelerating quickly and braking hard simply to wait.
alternative. Councils generally do wastes energy. Ride smooth. Instead
their best to restrict motor traffic on of trying to maintain a certain speed,
rat-runs too, installing speed humps, try to keep moving, period. When
lower speed limits, one-way travel, you're approaching a roundabout, for
and bollards to block off streets. Some example, watch the traffic and aim to
measures are expressly designed time your arrival so you don't have to
to restrict motor vehicles but still give way (see page 17). You'll need to
allow cycling access great! At other be ready to stop, but by accelerating
times, a broken link in an otherwise or slowing down a little, you may not
ideal backstreet cycling route can be need to. The same applies to other
rejoined by hopping off your bike and junctions. Look ahead, read the traffic,
pushing it for a few yards. and plan where you need to be. That
Number of junctions is why often means taking your lane, so that
cycle tracks running alongside other traffic can't box you in.
roads are generally slower than the A bike's relatively slow speed is a
road (although they have other huge advantage when it comes to
advantages). They cede priority at anticipating the road ahead. You have
every side road. Cycle tracks following more time to assess the situation and
old railway lines are often faster, your stopping distance is short. With
however, since they tend to go over practice, you'll soon be gliding along,
and under roads, avoiding junctions. for the most part using your brakes
Hills obviously slow you down on only lightly when you need to use
a bike. You might think you'd recoup them at all.
the time by going faster down the
other side. You don't. Let's say there's Filtering
Find out more about filtering
a hill on your way to work that's one The ability to ride carefully past
on the Cyclescheme website:
mile up and one mile down, and that queues of stationary or slow-moving
http://cycsch.me/filter
you climb at half your normal speed traffic is another reason why bikes are
/paligap.cc
Find your local Marin Dealer at: www.paligap.cc/dealer
Spring/Summer 2015
Cl ot hi ng
Endura Convert
Softshell jacket
84.99 | : 63.74
It's so named because you can zip off
the sleeves to convert the jacket into a
gilet when conditions are milder. The
softshell fabric feels more like a jersey
than a crinkly cagoule, and there's some
stretch in it so it fits comfortably and
Cyclescheme price flap-free. There's a windproof membrane
The Cyclescheme price is the most sandwiched between the inner and outer
you will pay for a given item, including
Transfer of Ownership fees. Price
layers, making it more weather resistant
assumes you are a standard rate than it looks. It's not fully waterproof but
taxpayer; higher rate taxpayers you'll stay cosy when riding in anything
will pay less. less than heavy rain. There's a zipped
chest pocket, a zipped rear pocket,
and three more rear ones. Sleeves and
shoulders have reflective trim. Great for
commuting, it also suits mountain biking.
Sizes: S-XXL (men's), SX-L (women's).
endura.co.uk
Altura Attack Waterproof shorts

59.99 | : 44.99
Waterproof shorts keep your thighs and backside dry without making
you hot and sweaty like full-length overtrousers can. On road, theyll
keep you dry in the rain; off-road,theyll deal with the muddy spray your
Crud guards miss. These Altura Attack shorts are breathable and durable
as well as waterproof; they're reinforced in the crotch to prevent wear
from pedalling. They have zipped hand pockets and reflective trim. Like
other waterproof shorts, they fit best over Lycra shorts or
cycling tights. Sizes: XS-XXL. altura.co.uk
Round-up
RIES
ACCESSO ES
PA C K A G
Mountain bike
essentials
Got a mountain bike? Take a second bite of the
Cyclescheme cherry and get the commuting Mu dg u ards
equipment and accessories that you missed
Crud Racepac
A
s well as bikes and equipment, you can get 19.99 | : 14.99
Accessories Packages through Cyclescheme. Standard frame-fitting mudguards will fit to many mountain bikes,
Maybe you got a bike last year and couldn't afford using P-clips if there are no frame eyelets, but they're awkward off-road,
to include all the accessories you wanted on your jamming up with mud and sticks. Crud's Racepac guards have no
original Certificate, because you were close to the 1,000 problems with clearance as they attach to the seatpost and down tube.
limit? Or maybe you're an existing cyclist who wants to start They're designed to stop mud flicking into your face or up your back
commuting once you've made your bike commuter- while mountain biking, and they'll keep the worst of the spray off you
ready? Either way, if you've got a mountain bike, you will while commuting. If you ride in cycling kit, that's enough. The front guard
normally attaches with stretch rubber O-rings, although if you'll leave
need to invest in additional equipment.
your bike parked anywhere, it's a better idea to use cable ties instead.
Mountain bikes come ready for bumpy off-road tracks The rear guard bolts to the seatpost, so is more secure than similar, strap-
fat knobbly tyres, suspension, low gears and good brakes fitting rear guards. There's a longer Racepac 29er for bigger-wheeled
but without the practical features you'll want for commuting, bikes; it's 2 dearer. raleigh.co.uk & crudproducts.com
such as mudguards and luggage capacity. With careful
equipment choice, however, you can have items useful for
both weekday streets and weekend singletrack. Tyres are Shoes
the hardest thing to get right. Try a lightly-treaded rear tyre
and adjust the pressure of both front and rear tyres when
Northwave Scorpius SRS shoes
99.99 | : 74.99
switching between road and off-road use.
If you're going to use clip-in pedals for
commuting, mountain bikes pedals and
shoes are the best option: they employ
recessed cleats, enabling you to walk
normally. They're obviously ideal
for mountain biking as well. These
Northwave shoes have stiff, carbon-
reinforced soles for pedalling effciency,
and reinforced uppers to protect your
feet from rock and branch strikes. They
fasten with two Velcro straps and a slim
ratchet strap, which is simple, secure, and durable. If you want
to be more visible on road, there are some bright colour options such as
flourescent yellow. Sizes: 36-50. i-ride.co.uk
Pump
Lezyne Micro Floor Pump HV with gauge
41.99 | : 31.49
Most portable pumps deliver a paltry amount of air per stroke, so it takes ages to inflate a big-volume mountain bike tyre. This Lezyne
pump is more efficient, and as it works like a little track pump, sitting on the floor instead of resting in your other hand, it takes half as
much effort to use. There's a gauge so you can get the pressure just right rather than guessing. Try inflating your mountain bike's tyres
to the maximum pressure for road riding and to the minimum for use off-road; you'll find both figures stamped on the tyre's
sidewall. This pump will inflate to 90psi. (There's a high-pressure version for narrow tyres.) upgradebikes.co.uk
Spring/Summer 2015
Luggag e
Ortlieb Velocity backpack
75 | : 56.25
A lightweight backpack is convenient on any bike, as the load goes
with you when you dismount. On a mountain bike it's particularly
useful. The bike will handle better on any off-road sections, as there's
less dead weight. And you don't have to fit a pannier rack, which
is complicated by rear suspension and/or missing frame eyelets.
Ortlieb's Velocity is comfortable and stable on your back, as it has
waist and sternum straps to keep the foam-backed bag snug against
your body. Best of all, it's completely dirtproof and waterproof thanks
to its welded-seam, roll-top design. However wet and dirty you get,
Lights
your work clothes (and laptop?) will stay dry and clean. The 20-litre
capacity is ample for commuting. It's durable, with reinforced
corners, and you can clip an LED light to it. ortlieb.de
Niterider Lumina 750
99.99 | : 74.99
The Lumina 750 will do double-duty as a lamp for off-road night-riding and also
for commuting. On full power it emits 750 lumens, which is enough to light up
nighttime singletrack. But you can click through the settings to medium (350
lumens) or low (200), either of which is enough to see where you're going on road
without dazzling drivers. It comes with both handlebar and helmet mounts, and
there's no cabling to worry about as the lithium-ion battery is integral. Despite this,
it weighs only 172g. It recharges via USB or mains adapter. Burn time is about 90
minutes on full power and five-and-a-half hours on low. 2pure.co.uk
Niterider Solas 2W rear light

39.99 | : 29.99
Niterider's Solas rear light can also be dialled up or down to suit the situation.
Put it on high when you're riding solo on road so that you're easily seen by cars
(and passing aircraft), and low off-road so your riding buddies can see where
you are without having a red blob burned on their retinas. It runs for 4.5 and 36
hours respectively, and its lithium-ion battery is USB rechargeable. There are a
couple of flashing modes too. It attaches to the bike's seatpost or a seatstay, or can
alternatively be clipped to luggage. 2pure.co.uk
This is an example of how savings are made for basic and higher rate tax payers on this bike package hired over a 12 month period.
RRP Cyclescheme Price
521.93 354.91 302.72

Basic rate taxpayer Higher rate taxpayer
12 monthly hire payments 29.58 25.23

1 End of Hire payment 15.66 15.66
Percentage saving 29% 39%
Total saving 167.02 219.21

Savings will be affected by your personal level of taxation. At the end of the hire period you may be given the option to continue to use the bike by paying a small one off deposit and signing an
Extended Use Agreement (EUA) with Cyclescheme. There are no further rental payments during the EUA period. This option will maximise your savings via the scheme (see page 6 for more details).
www.merida.com
www.facebook.com/meridauk
Lifetime warranty on all frames.
* Applies to frames manufactured since 2011 cyclo cross range from 799.99 to 999.99 (model shown 999.99)
Essentials
Cyclescheme price
AL
ESSENTI
taxpayer; higher rate taxpayers
KIT will pay less.
D-LOCKS
When your bike's out OnGuard Pitbull DT 8005
of sight, it needs to RRP 45.99 | : Cyclescheme price: 34.99
be locked. A D-lock is Cables don't offer enough protection for use on their own. Here, however,
the 10mm thick, 120cm cable is an extra, a way of securing a quick-release
portable and tough. front wheel or seat. The main lock, which anchors the cable, is solidly-built
T
hieves want an easy life. 14mm shackle. A thief would need different tools to breach the cable
and the shackle, so this approach adds security even if you don't use
To stop them stealing your
quick releases. The lock comes with a frame bracket, and an LED key-
bike, you need to make light that's useful for unlocking at night. Weight: 1.5kg. Sold Secure Gold.
it difficult for them. Any todayscyclist.co.uk
lock can be broken. If your bike lock
requires several minutes' work with
an angle grinder, it's immeasurably Knog Strongman
74.99 | : 56.24
safer than the lock that can be cut in
Silicone moulding encasing the
seconds with bolt croppers. Strongman will stop it clunking against
Sold Secure is a reasonable your bike's frame or your commuter
guideline to security. bag's contents, although it also comes
It's a bronze, silver or with a frame bracket. Underneath the rubbery
gold rating for locks that exterior there's a 13mm hardened steel shackle that
locks at both ends, to prevent it being twisted open.
are submitted for testing.
The silicone covering gets in the teeth of saws or angle-
Locks must resist increasingly grinders, making them awkward to use, while the compact size
time-consuming and tooled-up it's only 20cm long overall limits the space and leverage for brute
attacks to pass at the relevant level. force attacks. Weight: 1.1kg. Sold Secure Gold. todayscyclist.co.uk
Other security ratings are provided by
Thatcham, by other countries, and by Squire
the manufacturers themselves. Hammerhead Combi
Broadly speaking, the more 54.99 | : 41.24
expensive and heavier the lock, the Losing your keys for a D-lock is a
tougher it will be. Police recommend nightmare. That can't happen with
this version of Squire's Hammerhead, as
spending at least 10% of the value of
it's a combination lock. There are six number
your bike on security for it. D-locks, wheels, giving a million different combinations.
also known as U-locks or shackle You can choose your own numbers, so make them
locks, are easier to carry than equally- memorable! It's otherwise similar to key-operated D-locks,
tough chains. You may be able to with a 13mm hardened steel shackle and an armoured lock
body. This is the shorter version, with a 230mm shackle; there's also
leave a lock at work to reduce your
a 290mm version. Both include a frame bracket. Weight: 1.72kg.
commuting load. Sold Secure Silver. Gold. raleigh.co.uk
Spring/Summer 2015
Master Lock Street Fortum

39.99 | : 29.99
The Street Fortum is good value for a Sold Secure Gold
lock. Like other tough locks, it has a 13mm shackle that
locks at both ends to prevent twisting attacks, and a pick-
resistant disc lock. The 210mm shackle length limits room
for jacks. It comes with a frame bracket to fix to your bike,
and an integral dust cover to keep dirt out of the lock itself.
As well as black, it's available in blue, red, and silver. Weight:
1.42kg. fisheroutdoor.co.uk
Hiplok D
49.99 | : 37.49
Hiplok are better known for a chain lock that fastens belt-like
around the waist, making it easy to carry and quick to deploy.
The Hiplok D is even more accessible: it fits a belt, bag strap,
or back pocket, sliding securely in place with an integral clip.
The 13mm hardened steel shackle is just 135x70mm internally,
so pry-bars and jacks won't be a problem although parking
opportunities might be. It comes in cyan, red, and lime as well
as black. Weight: 1kg. Sold Secure Silver. hiplok.com
Zfal K-Traz U14

31.99 | : 23.99
Zfal's chunkiest D-lock has a 14mm hardened steel
shackle that, unlike cheap D-locks, locks at both ends. It's
easy to use because of the 292mm long shackle, although
you'll want to fill that space with bike or street furniture for
maximum security. Like any lock, it will need occasional
oiling. However, the lock mechanism is protected against
dust and corrosion. It comes with a frame bracket. This
lock hasn't been tested by Sold Secure; Zfal rate it 4.5 out
of 5 on their own scale. Weight: 1.6kg chickencycles.co.uk
Abus Granit X-Plus 54 Mini

79.99 | : 59.99
This is a smaller version of the highly-rated Granit X-Plus. At
15cm long, it's small enough for a back pocket or bag. The
shorter shackle means the bike has to be parked right up
against its anchor point, which is less convenient but
more secure; there won't be room for a thief's bottle
jack. It's a hefty 1.5kg despite its size because it's
so solid. It uses double locking mechanism and
a 13mm hardened steel shackle, with a square
section to prevent it being twisted open if
one side is cut. Sold Secure Gold. zyro.co.uk
*All Luminite hardshell products (jackets, overtrousers,
helmet covers and backpack covers) are:
Waterproof: 10,000mm
Breathable: 10,000g/m/24h
U LT I M AT E WAT E R P R O O F C O M M U T E R J AC K E T
FULLY SEAM-SEALED, COMPACT 2.5-LAYER WATERPROOF AND BREATHABLE* COMMUTER JACKET EMBLAZONED WITH HIGH-VISIBILITY 360 DEGREE
REFLECTIVE SAFETY CHEVRONS INTEGRATED LED LIGHT UNIT IN REAR POCKET WITH 3 FLASH PHASE OPTIONS COSY-TOUCH LINING IN HANDWARMER
POCKETS AND AROUND INNER COLLAR ADJUSTABLE NECK AND HEM CORDS CONCEALED IN FRONT POCKETS REAR ZIPPER POCKET WITH STORM FLAP AND
LED ACCESS BONDED, LASER-CUT DOUBLE STORM FLAP ON CENTRE ZIP ZIPPED CHEST AND HANDWARMER POCKETS REFLECTIVE VELCRO CUFF ADJUSTERS
Tel: 01506 497 749 Email: info@endura.co.uk www.endurasport.com facebook.com/enduraofficial twitter.com/endura

Spring/Summer 2015
Merida Speeder 300-D

RRP: 749.99 |
Cyclescheme
price: 562.49
The all-aluminium Speeder 300-D has a tapered
head tube, which gives a firmer feel to the steering
and should increase headset bearing life. Gear
cables are routed through the frame for a tidier look.
It's a 20-speed bike, with slick-shifting Shimano 105
and Tiagra derailleurs. The cassette is quite closely
spaced, which you'll appreciate if you like to ride at a
constant cadence. Tektro's Vela hydraulic disc brakes
provide reliable stopping in any conditions, and
they don't slowly destroy wheel rims like rim brakes
do. The wheels are lightweight and are fitted with
Continental's supple Sport Contact street tyres;
they accelerate easily but the 32mm tyre
width should shrug off potential pinch-
punctures. merida-bikes.com
Cyclescheme price
will pay less.
A 50/34 chainset is the same Hydraulic discs offer

In detail
as you'd find on a drop-bar predictable, powerful

road bike. With no super- braking, and require little
low gears available, it suits day-to-day attention.
brisker-paced riding They're ideal for commuting
Round-up
R AT ED R I D ES
UP
ROUND-
Flat-bar road bikes

These lightweight city hybrids combine road bike
speed with the reassuring control of a flat handlebar
Pinnacle Neon Three
F
lat-bar road bikes sit at the sporty end of the hybrid spectrum. As 550 | : 412.50
the name says, they have some road bike features the exception At under 10kg, the Neon Three is lightweight for an inexpensive
being that curly handlebar. They're lightweight; they have flat-bar road bike. That's partly due to its carbon fibre fork, which
you wouldn't expect at this price. Both fork and aluminium frame
relatively narrow tyres; and the gearing tends to come from road
have eyelets for mudguards, and it will take a rear rack. Shifters
bike derailleur groupsets. Some even have sidepull caliper brakes, although
and derailleurs are 9-speed Shimano Sora, with a cassette that
V-brakes dominate at lower price points and discs at higher ones. goes to 30-teeth. There's no budget left for disc brakes, which
The end result is a bike that feels fast and efficient on urban roads, while isn't surprising, but the Tektro mini-V brakes are lightweight and
retaining the head-up, easy-to-control convenience of a flat handlebar. powerful enough. The wheels have 32-spokes each, so breakages
It's not as good as a road bike for long rides as your hands are locked into should be rarer, and the 28mm Kenda Kwick Roller Sport tyres do
one position, which can become uncomfortable. (You can fit bar ends indeed roll 'kwickly' enough. evanscycles.com
and/or ergonomic grips to improve hand comfort, however.) You're not as
aerodynamic either. Yet you might well be first away from the traffic lights
in town; flat-bar controls enable you to brake and change down to an
easier gear simultaneously, so you won't be over-geared when the lights
turn green.
Flat-bar road bikes are usually sold without accessories. Unlike
many drop-bar road bikes, most have frame fittings and clearance for
conventional mudguards and a rear pannier rack. If you use the latter,
pack lightly; you're more aware of pannier mass on a sprightly-handling
lightweight. The frame will be longer than an equivalent-sized road bike's,
Whyte Pimlico Women's
so you're unlikely to clip the front wheel (or mudguard) with your toes on
850 | : 637.50
slow-speed turns. In terms of material, expect a lightweight aluminium
The Pimlico is Whyte's top-end flat-bar road bike for women:
frame and a rigid aluminium fork. Bikes costing nearer 1,000 will have compared to the equivalent men's model, it's got a women's-
a carbon fork, which saves weight and can help reduce vibration at the specific saddle and brake levers, plus a shorter reach to the
handlebar. handlebar. The aluminium frame and carbon fibre fork are both
Flat-bar road bikes aren't intended to tackle any terrain more technical mudguard ready, and there are fittings for a rear rack. The rear disc
than a towpath, and you can see this in the wheels. Wheels will be light, caliper is on the chainstay, out of the way of a pannier, and being
often with fewer spokes. Minimally-treaded tyres at 90psi-plus offer little hydraulic both brakes offer lots of power for little lever effort.
off-road traction but, equally, little rolling resistance on road. More than Gearing is Sram's 10-speed Via Centro groupset, whose smaller
anything, the tyres are what give flat-bar road bikes their pep. If you want (48-32) chainset and bigger (11-32) casssette will take
some of the strain from hills. whyte.bike
off-road grip, lots of cushioning, or puncture impregnability, check out
other kinds of hybrid.
Budget flat-bar road bikes may have triple-chainset trekking gears. Over
500 or so, you're likely to get a 34-50 road double chainset and a cassette
JARGON BUSTER
going to 28, 30 or even 32 teeth. Such gearing is better suited to faster Groupset Sometimes used to refer to the drivetrain - shifters,
tempo riding or to flat or rolling roads. If your commute has steep hills or derailleurs, chainset and cassette - the groupset also includes brakes,
you plan to cycle with a heavy load, you may struggle. Get a test ride. wheel hubs, bottom bracket, and sometimes pedals. Groupset
Brakes are generally more powerful than those of a comparable drop- manufacturers, such as Shimano and Sram, have price/performance
bar bike, hydraulic discs in particular. They're ideal for the cut-and-thrust of hierarchies but bike manufacturers often pick and mix.
a busy commute, and you won't find them on a sub-1,000 drop-bar bike.
Spring/Summer 2015
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749 Speed
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884.97 601.78 513.28



ALLROAD ROAD MOUNTAIN
AI
R R E SCU E
NEED AIR?
RESCUE IS ON THE WAY!
DISCOVER THE NEW SKS MINI PUMPS
ON SKS-AIR5.COM
SKS-GERMANY.COM G E R M A N Y
Essentials
Cyclescheme price
AL
ESSENTI assumes you are a standard rate

KIT will pay less.
PANNIERS
For longer trips or Altura Arc 20 Roll Top Pannier
heavier loads, it's RRP 39.99 | : Cyclescheme price: 29.99
comfier to carry You can cycle to work in a downpour and any stuff you've packed in this Arc
pannier will still be dry. It's made from waterproof fabric, with seams that
bags on your bike are welded rather than stitched, and a top that rolls over and buckles down.
than your back The Rixen Kaul Pressure Fit hooks are simple but secure, the only noticeable
economy being that they're fixed in position. It's available in red or grey,
P
anniers are the answer if both with reflective details to increase nighttime visibility. This version
your backpack or courier holds 20 litres; the smaller Arc 15 (same price) is arguably a better size for
commuting. altura.co.uk
bag makes you ache or
sweat. You'll need a frame-
fixing rear rack. (Beam racks that attach
Outeredge Medium Waterproof Pannier
55.99 | : 41.99
to the seatpost are meant for smaller
Made from heavy duty polyester with a PVC coating,
rack-top bags.) Racks fit to most bikes this Outer Edge bag is a more traditional waterproof
with normal-sized wheels, apart from pannier. Seams are welded and the roll-top closure
some road and mountain bikes. is supplemented with a large buckle-down
Most racks are sturdy enough for flap. This has a pocket in it, with a waterproof
zip, giving easier access to items you need at
two big rear bags, with a combined
hand, such as clip-on lights or a compact lock.
volume of 40-50 litres and a weight It measures 25x30x13cm, so has about 10-litres
of 20kg. That's useful for touring capacity; a larger version is available. There's a
or shopping, but for commuting mount for an LED light and a large reflective strip.
10-20 litres is ample. You can get that Rixen Kaul Twist hooks fasten manually and solidly.
through one medium bag or two todayscyclist.co.uk
small ones, which is better for bike
XLC Single Waterproof Pannier 99.99 | : 74.99
handling. This is one of the smallest panniers you buy, with a capacity of just 9 litres.
All good panniers have hooks with That will still be big enough for many commuters, and the small size
security fittings, so they won't means it's more manageable if you prefer to ride with a
leap off the rack if you hit a single pannier. It's completely waterproof,
bump. Internal or external thanks to its roll-top, welded-seam,
polyester-and-PVC construction. The
pockets enable you to divide
small outer pocket is also waterproof.
the load, so your laptop Reflective triangles add visibility from
doesn't have to share space the rear and (when not obscured by
with your sandwiches. If the your leg) the front. It's a well made bag,
pannier isn't waterproof, get with hooks again by Rixen Kaul, but it's
relatively expensive. raleigh.co.uk
a rain-cover or plastic-bag
the contents.
Spring/Summer 2015
Ortlieb City Biker QL3 Pannier

109.99 | : 82.49
While it's only a 10-litre bag, Ortlieb's City Biker is the right shape for A4
files or a laptop (up to 13.3in). As the bag's material and construction are
waterproof, any contents should stay dry; it's plausible but unlikely that
sideways rain could get blown under the flap. It doubles as a shoulder bag.
(The strap is secured internally when it's on the bike.) There's no problem
with protruding hooks when you're carrying the bag, as Ortlieb's QL3 hooks
are recessed. There's some reflectivity and a choice of bright colours. ortlieb.de
Basil Mirte Shopping Bag

54.99 | : 41.24
It's a 16-litre pannier designed to look like, and
function as, a ladies' shopping bag. There are proper handles,
and the pannier hooks are in a zipped pocket on the side; they can be
concealed when you're on foot. It's not completely waterproof, as heavy
rain could get in that the top, but the coated polyester fabric will shrug
off showers and spray. There's a zipped purse pocket inside the bag, and
reflectives front and rear. An optional mount allows it to be fixed to the
handlebar instead. fisheroutdoor.co.uk
Carradice CarraDry
Universal/Front Panniers
55/pair | : 41.25
Great value at just 55 for two, these waterproof
panniers are a good size for commuting, either
individually or as pair. Each holds 10 litres. Small
panniers like these are especially useful for bikes
with shorter chainstays, such as road and cyclocross
bikes, as they offer good heel clearance. They're made
from welded-seam polyester and PVC. There are no
pockets, just one big compartment, although there are
reflectives front and rear. Carradice's Quick-clip hooks
attach to racks up to 13mm in diameter. carradice.co.uk
Cordo Zuidkaap Blue Laptopbag

49.99 | : 37.49
Like Ortlieb's City Biker, this is a pannier that doubles as a shoulder
bag. There are hooks but they can be covered when the bag isn't on
the bike. As the name says, this 12-litre bag is specifically designed to
carry a laptop, having a well-padded pocket that will accommodate
a machine up to 15in. There are other pockets inside, plus an external
pocket in the lid and a side pocket for tucking the shoulder strap into.
There's a loop for an LED light. Cordo Vario hooks will fit racks from
6-15mm in diameter. i-ride.co.uk
38
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Product Video
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Spring/Summer 2015
Get
Comforta Don't put up
with a sore
backside,
tingling hands,
or other aches
and pains. Fit
the bike parts
your body and
riding position
demands.
Here's how.
A
ches and pains are not a
normal part of cycling. If
you're getting back on
a bike after a long layoff,
it can take your body a few weeks to
adapt. Some stiffness in the muscles
particularly the buttocks is normal
to begin with. If it doesn't go away,
or if you ever suffer from sharp pains,
numbness, tingling, or acute soreness,
there's something wrong with your
bike. Cycling should be enjoyed not
endured.
The first thing to check is that your
bike fits (see 'A bike that fits' , p43).
Swapping bike parts will be of limited
help if the cause of your lower back and
hand pain is the fact that the handlebar
is simply too low for you. Once your
posture is right for the cycling you'll
Get comfortable
pressure you'll put on your soft bits.

(This is more of a problem for women The general
than men.) Sitting more upright on a rule is that
ble
wider saddle could solve your saddle
problems at a stroke. the faster
Anatomic saddles have grooves or
holes in the middle that are designed and further
to eliminate perineal pressure, and
are especially useful when you're not
you plan to
sitting so upright. They can be very ride, the
be doing and for the biomechanics of
effective, but not every anatomic
saddle will suit every cyclist; some narrower
your body, it's time to address the bike's
components. Mostly that means the
increase pressure around the edges of
their grooves/holes Leather saddles
and harder
contact points: the saddle, handlebar, are another option. They slowly mould you want
and pedals. Let's start with the one that
can literally be a pain in the backside for
themselves to your particular shape
like lived-in shoes. the saddle to
new cyclists There is a saddle out there that will
suit your bum. It's almost impossible to
be and
The saddle say which because we're all different. vice versa
The general rule is that the faster Some local bike shops can narrow
and further you plan to ride, the down your choices by measuring your
narrower and harder you want sit bones; you can even do it yourself
the saddle to be and vice versa. with corrugated cardboard and chalk
The saddles on racy road bikes are type 'measure sit bones' into a search
narrow and hard because: a) you're engine to find out how. Alternatively,
expected to wear padded Lycra the shop may have saddles you can
shorts while riding them; and b) try out. No luck? Ask colleagues or
more of your bodyweight will be cycling friends what saddles they like,
carried by your feet and hands and even if you can borrow their bike.
because of the riding position and
pedalling effort involved. An upright
roadster, meanwhile, benefits from
a wide saddle that's softer or sprung
because that's where your weight
goes. You can comfortably ride a
roadster in jeans.
Any saddle needs to support your
sit bones, the bony protruberances at
the bottom of your pelvis. These tend
to be wider in women than men. If the
saddle is too narrow, you weight will be
carried not by your sit bones but by the
soft flesh in between: the perineum.
A lot of nerves run through here, in
both men and women. Compressing
them can lead to pain or numbness.
It's not just a matter of saddle width;
the further forward you lean, the more
Spring/Summer 2015
ergonomic grips can make a huge

difference to hand comfort.
Alternative hand-holds improve
comfort too, especially on long rides.
A drop handlebar usually offers four
positions: tops, shoulders, hoods, and
drops. (A compact drop bar makes the
drops position more useable.) A flat (or
riser) handlebar offers just one position.
You can inexpensively add another
by attaching bar ends. Ergonomic bar
ends are excellent.
A riser bar doesn't offer more hand
positions but does put the grips
higher, which might ease lower back
pain without requiring a new stem.
Back-curved 'flat' bars also offer only
The last resort is simply to buy saddles one hand position, but as they put the
until you get one you like. Even if you handgrips closer to your body and
end up getting three or four before you parallel to the direction of travel, they
find one that suits, it's an investment tend to be more comfortable. For the
that will repay you every time you ride maximum number of hand positions
your bike. on a 'flat' handlebar, get a butterfly
handlebar also known as a trekking
The handlebar handlebar.
The more weight there is on your Fitting a new handlebar is
hands, the more the ergonomics of straightforwardso long as the brake
the handlebar matter. Hardly anyone and gear levers are compatible with
gets painful hands on an upright the new bar. They will be unless you
roadster; on a drop-bar racer, many want to go from a 'flat' bar to a drop
do. First address the bar position (see bar, or vice versa. That will require new
'A bike that fits', p43). Next, get more levers at least, and may create gear
comfortable bar tape or grips. compatibility issues. It will also radically
Cork bar tape helps isolate vibration change the riding position, making
The more to the hands. Alternatively, there's gel
bar tape and/or gel strips that stick to
weight there the handlebar before you wrap it with
tape. And you can simple double-
is on your wrap bar tape, so you've got twice the
hands, the thickness. Brake hoods are generally

more comfortable when the flat bit
more the that you rest your hands on is level with
the bar top.
ergonomics Some grips are unyielding. Try ones
of the made from dual-density rubber, foam,

or cork. Grips that flare wider towards
handlebar the ends provide a broader platform
to rest your hands on. On a flat-bar
matter bike with only one hand position, such
Get comfortable
it 3-4cm shorter if you fit a flat bar in If it hurts or niggles, the cleats are set up
place of a drop (and vice versa). So you wrong for you. Seek advice from a bike
may want a new stem too. fitter; your local shop may offer such
If your bike's handlebar feels too a service. You can limit the likelihood
wide, it can be cut down to size with of problems developing by choosing
a hacksaw if it's a flat or riser. If it's too clip-in pedals with plenty of float,
narrow, or if you want to change
something else like the angle of the
particularly rotational float. See http://
cycsch.me/clip for more on clip-in pedals.
A bike
bend or the depth of a drop you'll
need a new handlebar. And finally
that fits
This article assumes that your bike is the
Comfort is not just about bike fit and right size for you and that the handlebar
The pedals contact points. Your bike's tyres and and saddle positions will enable you
Flat pedals seldom cause problems the pressures you run them at will to cycle in a posture that you find
with ankles or knees because you can make a massive difference to how comfortable. Common sources of aches
put your foot where you like on the well bumps and vibrations from the and pains include the saddle being too low
pedal. Cramps in your feet can be road are isolated from your body. or too high, and the handlebar being too
caused by cycling long distances in Tyres are pneumatic suspension; the low down and/or too far forward.
footwear that's too flexible. Use stiffer wider the tyre, the more suspension
Here are some useful rules of thumb.
shoes or fit pedals with a bigger you have. Wider tyres can safely be
platform, so there's more support. run at lower pressures without pinch- Saddle height. Try the heel-on-pedal
Clip-in pedals (confusingly known puncturing like narrow ones, so method. Sit on the saddle and set the
cranks inline with the seat tube. Put the
as clipless pedals) often cause aches they can absorb bumps rather than
heel of your shoe on the bottom pedal. If
and pains. You can only put one part bouncing off them.
that leg is straight but not stretching, the
of your foot the cleated part on For increased comfort, use the saddle is more or less the right height.
the pedal, and there will be limits on widest tyres that your bike will safely As you pedal with the ball of each foot,
how much you can turn your foot in accommodate. The difference there will be a slight bend in each leg at
or out (rotational float) and how much between a 28mm road bike tyre and the bottom of the stroke.
you can move it towards or away a 23mm tyre is palpable, especially if Handlebar height. Try it initially with
from the crank arm (lateral float). If, for there's 10-20psi less in the wider tyre. the top of the handlebar as high as the
example, your foot would normally At about 32mm and wider, tyres should top of the saddle. This may require a new
turn outward but can't because of the cope well even on poorly-maintained stem. You can move the bar down, or up,
pedal-cleat set-up, it's likely you'll get roads. But if you want the ultimate in from there.
some knee pain. pothole-proof urban comfort, try a bike Handlebar fore/aft position. Put
If there's no pain, there's no problem. with 50mm or wider slick tyres. the elbow of one arm against the nose
of the saddle and hold your forearm
out straight towards the centre of the
handlebar, fingers outstretched. If the
bike fits comfortably, the handlebar will
probably be from one to four fingers'
width beyond your nearest fingertip. Err
on the long side for flat-bar bikes and on
the short side for drop-bar bikes, where
you're usually gripping in front of the
handlebar centre, on the brake hoods
or drops.
Note that these are rough guidelines

only. For more, see the Bike Fit Basics
article in issue 11 of Cycle Commuter:
http://cycsch.me/mag11.
Be seen on the road
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Essentials
AL
ESSENTI
KIT
Cyclescheme price
CASUAL The Cyclescheme price is the most
SHORTS
will pay less.
Don't feel like striding Endura Zyme short

into the office in skin- RRP 34.99 | Cyclescheme price: 26.24
tight Lycra? There are Also available in camouflage, the black version blends in better around town.
The shorts are made from Nylon with a wicking finish. There's no pad but there
comfortable summer is a double seat panel, and the Zymes are compatible with Endura's Clickfast
shorts for cycling undershorts, which attach with small press-studs. There's a zipped security
that you can wear pocket in one of the hip pockets, as well as a zipped thigh pocket and two jeans-
style rear ones. You can fine tune the fit with the snap-lock buckled webbing
off the bike too belt, which also makes the shorts look less bikey. Sizes: S-XXL endura.co.uk
L
ycra shorts with a seat pad
are very comfortable for Giro Women's Mobility
cycling because they fit like Tailored Overshort
79.99 | : 59.99
a second skin. But that's just
Most bike shorts are almost knee length;
it: they're skin tight. They stand out in
these have only a 5-inch inseam. It makes
the office or urban environment like a them look more like normal summer shorts,
ballet dancer's tights. There is another and it limits the tan-line issue cyclists have
summer option: so-called baggy out of bike gear. The fabric is a mix of
cycling shorts. polyester, cotton and elastane (i.e. Lycra),
so there's a good amount of stretch in the
Styles vary depending on
fabric, without it clinging. There are four
intended usage: mountain biking,
pockets. There's no seat pad, but Giro's padded
touring or commuting. Some are Women's Boy Undershort has the right leg-length to be worn underneath.
comfortable enough over ordinary Sizes: XS (4) to XL (12), in jet black or 'dark shadow'. zyro.co.uk
underwear, others come with a
padded inner short, and any of them
Dare2B Modify 2-in-1 shorts
can be worn over Lycra shorts. 54.99 | : 41.24
Cycling shorts are designed so you They're called 2-in-1 because they come
don't sit on a raised seam. The seat with a detachable, lightweight inner short
is often reinforced. The cut is closer with a seat pad. You can wear them with or
in the leg and higher in the back, so without this. The polyamide outer short has
they don't flap or expose skin. Fabrics some stretch panels and is reinforced in
the seat and inner legs. Waist and hems are
are quick drying, sometimes with
adjustable to suit; there are also belt loops
a water-repellant coating, and may
if you want them. Some of the several
include a small percentage of Lycra pockets are zipped, so furious pedalling
to improve the fit. Other common or a comfy chair at a caf stop won't pitch
features include: velcro tabs on the your phone on the floor. The outer short
legs; cycling-suitable pockets; and has a water-repellent coating. Sizes: 30-38in
reflective details. waist. todayscyclist.co.uk
Spring/Summer 2015
Rapha Touring Shorts 80 | : 60

Rapha are best known for their boutique roadie gear. These shorts
are understated, with a slimmer, more tailored cut than most
mountain bike baggies. They're
a lightweight blend of Nylon
and Spandex, with a full-length
gusset to prevent seams
rubbing. They're unpadded
and can be worn on their own
or over Lycra shorts; a non-slip
waistband stops them riding
down if worn over bib-
shorts. Two zipped pockets,
a small front and larger rear,
keep valuables safe, and
there are some discreet
reflectives. Sizes: 28-38in,
in black or dark grey. rapha.cc

Bontrager Dual Sport shorts 44.99 | : 33.74

With their loose fit and drawcord waist, these Dual Sport shorts wouldn't look out of place at the gym or while
playing football in the park. Yet they have an integral mesh liner with a seat pad, so they're comfortable on the bike.
Being a loose fit, they suit a slower pace riding off-road or on cycle tracks, for example, rather than racing along the
road on drops. The Nylon outer shell is lightweight, and it includes three pockets: two hand pockets, and a zipped
pocket on one thigh. Sizes: S-XXXL. bontrager.com
Swrve Men's Lightweight

WWR Trouser Shorts
65 | : 48.75
WWR stands for wind- and water-resistant.
The fabric a blend of nylon, high-wicking
'Coolplus', and Spandex (i.e. Lycra) has a
water-repellent coating. In terms of style,
these are smart city shorts, albeit with cycling
features. The seamless, gusseted crotch allows
easy pedalling, and the waist is lower in front
and higher in the back to stop it digging in or
baring skin on the bike. The back pockets are
big enough for a mini U-lock, and one is zipped.
Some of the belt loops are reflective. Sizes: 28-
36in waist, in black, grey or pine. swrve.co.uk
Polaris Capri Pants 44.99 | : 33.74

Three-quarter length trousers are also known as pedal pushers. They suit cycling
because they don't flap into the chain or interfere with pedalling. These Capri Pants are
tailored for cycling at the knees and hips but, despite some stretch in the material, are
not figure hugging. There's no seat pad. There is a zipped pocket one one hip for keys
and the like, and a strip of reflective tape across the high-waisted back. The waist secures
with both a button and hook-and-eye. Black only, sizes: 8-16. polaris-bikewear.co.uk
Spring/Summer 2015
Kalkhoff Pro Connect Impulse 9

RRP: 1,795 | Cyclescheme
Cyclescheme price price: 1,545
you will pay for a given item, including This German pedelec has a bottom bracket motor, enabling better
Transfer of Ownership fees. Price use of the 9-speed Shimano Alivio/Deore gearing. Its 'Shift-Sensor
assumes you are a standard rate technology' backs off the motor power when you change gear,
taxpayer; higher rate taxpayers just like you would with your legs on any other derailleur bike,
will pay less.
so gear shifts are smoother and the drivetrain should last longer.
The battery lasts 60 miles or more per charge, and it's ideally
situated: low-down, to improve balance. Aside from the
electrics, it's a well-equipped trekking bike: Shimano
M396 hydraulic discs are ideal for stopping a
heavy bike; 40mm Schwalbe street tyres are
comfortable and efficient; and it has almost
all the accessories you need even hub-
dynamo lighting! It's also available
with a step-through frame.
50cycles.com
All rechargeable batteries have The handlebar display

In detail
a limited lifespan, but this one shows you the assistance

can be recharged 1100 times level chosen and battery
before it needs replacing. That's charge remaining as well
excellent longevity as speed and distance
Round-up
R AT ED R I D ES
UP
ROUND-
Electric bikes
Even if an electric bike costs over 1,000, you
can get one through Cyclescheme. Here's
Liv Prime E+2 W
how and why you might want to
R
1,899 | : 1,649
iding an electrically-assisted bicycle is like having your own Giant have had good quality pedelecs in their range for years, and
tailwind on tap. The onboard battery and motor add to your this one is no exception. A bottom bracket Yamaha SyncDrive C motor
pedalling efforts so you can ride further or in hillier terrain amplifies your pedalling effort through the 9-speed Shimano Acera/
without breaking sweat. This assistance makes it more Deore drivetrain. The battery, which has a range of about 30 miles,
slots into a solidly-built rack that's part of the bike's frame; you can use
practical for more people to commute by bike.
panniers as well. Hydraulic discs offer lots of stopping power for little
And these are bikes: unlike mopeds, you don't need a licence and the
lever effort, while lights and mudguards mean that it's commuter-
bike doesn't have to be taxed or insured. Anyone aged 14 or over can ride ready. If you have to deal with bad roads you might appreciate the
one, and it can legally be ridden wherever a bicycle can. 42mm-travel suspension fork, reminiscent of Cannondale's Headshok,
There are some restrictions. The maximum assisted speed is 15.5mph, and the suspension seatpost. giant-bicycles.com
at which point the motor must cut out. (You can go faster than this; you'll
just have to do it under your own steam.) The motor must be no greater
than 250 Watts. Furthermore, twist-and-go electric bikes, which provide
power via a throttle and don't demand that you pedal, require 'type
approval' from 2016. An electric bike that doesn't meet these criteria
would be considered a moped.
Most quality electric bikes don't have a throttle, however. They are
pedelecs. They sense when you are pedalling and amplify that effort with
the motor. There are different levels of assistance available, ranging from
'eco' (which might add 50% extra pedalling power) through to 'sport' or
'turbo' (which can add 2-3 times your pedalling effort). You can change Cube Town Hybrid
between them, selecting eco for long rides and turbo for the steepest hills. 1,999 | : 1,749
The more power you get from the motor, the quicker you'll drain the battery. 'Hybrid' is Cube's name for their pedelecs. While this one is a hybrid
Electric bikes have big lithium-ion batteries that generally last 25-40 Hybrid, they also do touring and mountain bike models. The Town
miles per charge, and sometimes further. The exact distance will depend Hybrid's motor is bottom bracket Bosch unit that's found on many
on the weight of you and your luggage, the terrain you ride over, and quality pedelecs; it powers 8-speed Shimano Altus gears. The battery
amount of assistance you select. If the battery does go flat, you can still slots into a rear rack, and it powers the lights as well as the drivetrain
a sensible idea, given how little energy the lights require. Brakes
pedal the bike, although the additional weight of battery and motor make
are hydraulic discs again, and there's a good selection of commuting
this harder. Recharging costs pennies in electricity and can be done at any
accessories included. A simple suspension fork and suspension
wall socket, so as long as you keep an eye on the battery's 'fuel gauge', seatpost will take the sting from unseen potholes, and the weight
you'll be fine. they add is largely irrelevant on a pedelec. cube.eu
An electric bike's motor can be in one of the wheels or at the bottom
bracket, where the cranks are. The latter is arguably the best configuration,
as it enables the motor to get the benefit of the bike's gearing, so it should JARGON BUSTER
go up hills better.
Type approval For twist-and-go electric bikes (i.e. not
Electric bikes are more expensive than unassisted bikes. Prices tend pedelecs), this means that the someone, usually the manufacturer
to start around 1,000, the limit for Cycle to Work savings for most or distributor, will have to pay to get that bike registered as an
employees. That only buys a rather basic pedelec. If you want a higher- approved Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle and thus not a moped.
quality one, however, you can simply pay the retailer the cash difference It won't apply to e-bikes used before 1 January 2016,
between 1,000 and the price of the pedelec, then make the usual tax although the 15.5mph and 250W limits remain.
savings on the remaining 1,000.
Spring/Summer 2015
95 ro lse 9
17lkhoff Pt Impu
Ka nnec
Co
1,795 1,545 1,445

Payment to retailer: 795
Cyclescheme amount: 1,000

1 End of Hire payment 70 70
Percentage saving (on 1795) 13.9% 19.5%
Total saving 250 350

For more information on adding additional funds, please head over to our FAQ section http://cycsch.me/faq
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Spring/Summer 2015
Cycling
myths
We don't pay for the roads we
T
he driver doesn't understand
why you were riding
use, we risk our lives, and we're further out from the kerb,
preventing him from
all sweaty Myths about cycling overtaking at a pinch-point. 'You bl***y
abound among non-cyclists. cyclists don't even pay road tax!' he
shouts, agog at your impertinence.
Here are some rebuttals Your friend or co-worker says she'd like
to cycle to work but won't due to the
danger/difficulty/sweat. When you're
a cyclist, you hear a lot of myths about
cycling from people who don't. Here
are rebuttals to ten of them.
1 Cyclists don't
pay road tax
Well, that's true, but then no one does
either, because it doesn't exist. Road
tax was abolished in 1937. What drivers
pay is Vehicle Excise Duty (VED). The
amount depends on the vehicle's
carbon dioxide emissions, with owners
of low-emission vehicles (Band A)
paying nothing. Since bicycles are zero-
emission, cyclists would pay nothing
even if bicycles were subject to VED.
Note that VED is not ring-fenced for
roads, just as the tax on alcohol doesn't
directly pay for alcohol-related illnesses.
Roads are paid for out of: general
taxation, which includes everything
from income tax to duty on booze; and
local taxation, which is to say, Council
Tax. If you pay tax, you pay for roads. For
more information, visit the ironically
named website ipayroadtax.com.
Cycling Myths
2 Roads were
built for cars
Only motorways were built for cars and
not bicycles. The vast majority of the
UK's road network is for all road users,
including cyclists. Most of our roads
pre-date the car in any case. Some of
them are Roman!
Roads have been surfaced better
over the last hundred years, but the
impetus for that came largely from
cyclists in the late 19th and very early
20th centuries, when cars were in their
infancy and hardly anyone owned one.
The motoring lobby merely took up
the baton of the cycling lobby. To read
more, visit roadswerenotbuiltforcars.com.
yourself more visible to drivers and but rather a minority. The statistics
Cyclists should
3 use cycle lanes/
cycle tracks
force them to react to your presence.
They'll need to overtake properly rather
than squeezing past when there isn't
suggest that car drivers are equally
likely to transgress. According to the
Department for Transport (see bit.
Cycle lanes are painted areas on the enough room, and if you've taken ly/1xqkOOn), disobeying automatic
road, while cycle tracks are separate the lane at a pinch point or junction, traffic signals was a contributory
from the road. Cyclists are not obliged because it's not safe for drivers to pass, factor in 1% of cycle accidents and
to use either; even the Highway Code they'll need to wait behind. Cycling 1% of car accidents in 2013. That's 187
says to use them 'when practicable' organisations such as British Cycling and 1,664 accidents respectively, so
(that is, useful). Some cycle lanes are and CTC endorse this advice, as do while the proportions may be equal,
not useful: they're too narrow and motoring organisations such as the there are many more drivers than
place you too close to the kerb. Cycle AA and the Institute of Advanced cyclists causing accidents by running
tracks vary too. Some are convenient, Motorists. For a detailed guide, see red lights.
while others are badly lit, badly cyclecraft.co.uk.
maintained, or force you to give way at
every side road. One day we may get
wonderful cycle facilities like they have 5 Cyclists ignore
red lights
6 You can get points
on your licence for
cycling offences
in the Netherlands some of which are Some do, and shame on them. It's not You can't. You can, however, be
compulsory. In the meantime, if a cycle 'all cyclists', however, or even most, fined. Amounts range from a Fixed
lane or cycle track helps you, use it; if it Penalty Notice of up to 50 for minor
doesn't, don't. It might feel safer offences, such as failing to stop at a
to be 'out of the red light, up to a maximum of 2,500
4 Cyclists
keep left
should
It might feel safer to be 'out of the

way of the traffic'
by hugging the kerb,
for Dangerous Cycling. Note that
some offences don't apply to cyclists,
only to drivers of motor vehicles. For
way of the traffic' by hugging the but it's not. You example, cyclists can't be prosecuted
kerb, but it's not. You never want never want to be for breaking the speed limit on public
to be closer than 50cm to the kerb roads or for talking on a mobile phone,
and should often be a metre out or
closer than 50cm to although the cyclist might be guilty of
more. Sometimes you'll 'take the the kerb and should Carelesss Cycling (or even Dangerous
lane'. That's riding in the centre of the often be a metre Cycling) in either case. While cyclists
lane. By riding further out, you make out or more are exempt from breathalyser tests, it is
Spring/Summer 2015
make you sweat. If you dress too

still an offence to cycle while under the
influence of alcohol or other drugs; you
Give yourself warmly and/or ride too hard, then yes,
can be fined up to 1,000. plenty of time for cycling will make you sweat. Solution:
your journey and remove that sweater and slow down.
7 Cycling is dangerous
Like any activity, cycling has carry your
Treat cycling not like running or
jogging but like walking. Pedal easily
risks. Around 100 cyclists die in UK luggage on the and 'stroll' along. It's more comfortable
road incidents each year, and many riding like this on traditional town bike
more are injured. Cyclists are about
bike instead of or sit-up-and-beg style hybrid than
11 times more likely to be killed than your back. You'll it is on a racer. Give yourself plenty of
car drivers, per mile travelled (see
bit.ly/RSm3ZW). That sounds even
arrive sweat-free time for your journey and carry your
luggage on the bike instead of your
worse than it is because 'per mile' you don't have to start off fit. Cycling back. You'll arrive sweat-free.
is a poor comparator; drivers travel is the most efficient form of muscle-
much further. A driver who travels 11
times as far as a cyclist in a year is just
as likely to have a fatal incident. The
powered locomotion on the planet. It
takes a third of the energy that it would
take to walk the same distance. The
10 Bikes are expensive
They've never been cheaper
in real terms. A hundred years ago,
risks involved in walking, cycling, and perception that cycling is tough comes a decent bike cost about a month's
driving are broadly comparable, when from cheap and nasty bikes, bad bike wages. In 2015, the average weekly
considered in terms of time spent set-up (saddle too low, tyres too soft, wage is a little under 500, easily
doing that activity. And to put the risk brakes rubbing), and from trying to enough for a good quality bike; you
of cycling into perspective: coronary pedal in too high a gear. Good bikes, could get an adequate one for half
heart disease kills 75,000 people properly set up, are a breeze. If work that. Yet you're unlikely to regret
per year in the UK. The British Heart nevertheless seems too far away, or the getting the better bike, especially if
Foundation reckons that one-in-ten hills too steep, how about a pedelec? you get it via Cyclescheme, which
of these deaths (7,500) is attributable That's an electrically-assisted bike that saves at least 25% on the price and
to physical inactivity. That makes it amplifies your pedalling effort. enables you to spread the cost. Bikes
75 times as dangerous to be a couch are inexpensive to run, because the
potato as a cyclist!
9 Cycling makes
you sweaty
engine is fuelled by cornflakes. See
how much you or your colleagues
8 You must be fit!

Cycling does make you fitter, but
Linked to the idea that cycling is hard
work is the notion that it must therefore
could save by cycle commuting at
cyclescheme.co.uk/calculator.
Division CB2.0 Tiagra 2015
With its versatile frame geometry, carbon forks
to smooth out the roughest roads, reliable
Shimano Tiagra gears, powerful hydraulic disc
brakes, the Division is a fast commuter thats
ready for your weekend adventures.
Top Features
Verenti lightweight alloy frame
Carbon/alloy forks
Shimano Tiagra drivetrain
Hayes Dyno Sport Hydraulic disc brakes
Hutchinson Nitro 28C Tyres verentibikes.com
Spring/Summer 2015
Marin Argenta Elite

RRP: 1,000 |
Cyclescheme
price: 750
Marin are best known for their mountain bikes, but
this is a decent endurance road bike. The aluminium
frame has a tall head tube so the handlebar isn't
back-achingly low. The fork is carbon fibre to reduce
road buzz. There are eyelets for a rear rack and
mudguards, although clearance is tight under the
brakes so road-bike-specific guards would fit best.
The gearing is 10-speed Shimano Tiagra, with a
compact double chainset and an 11-28 cassette.
There's a Kevlar layer in the Schwalbe Lugano
tyres to limit punctures. While the wheels have
sturdy, semi-aero-profile rims, total bike weight is
respectable at under 10kg. marin.com
Cyclescheme price
will pay less.
Sidepull calipers lack the Shimano Tiagra shifters

In detail
bite of disc brakes but can be operated from the

they're cheaper, lighter and drops as well as the from the
still stop you okay. These brake hoods, unlike shifters
are short-reach calipers with thumb buttons
Round-up
R AT ED R I D ES
UP
ROUND-
Road bikes
A drop-bar race bike is ideal for fitness
training and summer weekend rides, and it
Trek 1.1
can be used as a quick commuter 575 | : 431.25
R
Trek's least expensive road bike nevertheless comes with a carbon
oad bikes are designed for riding fast on smooth tarmac. They fork. The aluminium frame has what Trek call an H2 fit, a taller head
provide a stretched out, aerodynamic riding position. They use tube taking the strain off your back and neck. There are fittings for
efficient high-pressure tyres. The gears are high, forcing you to a rear rack and mudguards. Trek don't specify the brake, but it looks
attack climbs standing up. And they're very lightweight. to be a long-reach caliper so guards should fit fine over these 25mm
For commuting, a road bike makes more sense the further you'll be Bontrager tyres. Gearing is 8-speed Shimano Claris: budget but
riding, because the time you'll save on the journey can then exceed the time practical. A compact double chainset and 11-28 cassette give the
it takes to get into and out of your cycling kit. It can also be used for fitness same gear range as the Marin, albeit with fewer steps. It's available
or fun at the weekends, for that 100-kilometre summer sportive you were in lots of sizes and a women's equivalent, the Lexa. trekbikes.com
thinking of, and even for racing.
The downside to road bikes is that they're not very practical; they're more
sports car than estate car. Most are not designed to carry luggage, so your
commuting gear may have to go in a backpack. Few have the clearance
required for conventional mudguards, even if they have the frame fittings.
Unless the bike has long-reach brake calipers check the tech spec expect
to use specialist mudguards like the Crud Roadracer or SKS RaceBlade Long.
They're not quite as effective as normal mudguards but they're pretty good.
Unless you really are planning to race, get an 'endurance road bike'
rather than an out-and-out racer. It will have a taller head tube tube,
a compact-drop handlebar, and a shorter reach, thus giving a riding Cannondale Synapse
position that's easier on your lower back, neck, and hands. You'll still be Alloy Tiagra Women's
plenty quick enough. 849.99 | : 637.49
Road bikes get lighter the more you spend. Most frames are aluminium, Another endurance road bike, this Cannondale has a mouthful of
which saves weight compared to steel, and forks are commonly carbon a name that is at least descriptive: the frame is aluminium, the
fibre. A few brands offer carbon-framed bikes for less than than 1,000. gearing is 10-speed Shimano Tiagra, and it is the women's version.
All road bikes use integrated brake and gear levers, usually by Shimano It has a carbon fork and it's mudguard-ready, with both eyelets
and clearance; the brakes are long-reach. Normally it comes with
but sometimes by SRAM or Campagnolo. (All three brands work fine but
a compact double chainset and a 12-30 cassette. However, it's also
have very limited compatibility with each other.) You change gear by
available with a 50-39-30 triple chainset, which is a good option if
swiping the brake lever, a secondary paddle behind the brake lever, or by you're still working on your fitness. Wheels have 32 spokes each, so
pressing a button on the brake hood. It varies from brand to brand and should endure long-term commuting better, and they're fitted
model to model. Spending more gets smoother gear shifts and more with the same Lugano tyres as the Marin. cannondale.com
sprockets on the cassette; 8-speed is entry-level, 11-speed top of the range.
Disc brakes are now appearing on performance road bikes and not
just fatter-tyred, cyclocross-style commuters. Discs add weight and cost, JARGON BUSTER
especially hydraulics, so it's likely that sidepull calipers will dominate sub-
1,000 road bikes for a while yet. Tech spec The list of a bike's components that you see on websites
and in magazine reviews. All bikes are built to a price, so manufacturers
Road bike wheels are designed for speed rather than durability. For
have to prioritise and make compromises. One bike might have a better
commuting it's worth fitting 25mm tyres, or 28mm if there's room. The extra
rear derailleur, another better brakes. The quality of the tyres
volume will protect against impact punctures, and you can run them slightly is often overlooked; changing them can transform your bike.
softer than 23mm tyres for improved grip and comfort.
Spring/Summer 2015
0 Elite
1 ,00 rgenta
nAri
Ma
1,000 680.00 580.00



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conditions of the competition at any time.
Spring/Summer 2015
Tony
Mawson
Cyclescheme 7
awake once I get to work - more alert, getting back into it. Start off slow, he
We catch up with more refreshed. I dont feel like Ive says. Dont think: right, this week Im
just fallen out of bed. You look around going to go to work on my bike every
the commuters and see people staring at their mug single day. Maybe do it one day or
featured on the of coffee and they dont seem to be a couple of days. Dont always look
all there. for the direct A-to-B route either. My
Cyclescheme Cycling to work has reignited A-to-B route is the worst option; its
website. Tonys interest in recreational cycling.
Ive joined a cycling club in Leeds,
busy main roads. By riding two-and-
a-half miles further, Im still on A-roads
This issue: Alba Rosa CC. I ride with them on a but Im going against the flow of traffic
electric bike rider Sunday. Theyre good because they

have various groups, so you can ride
so its much better. Plus, there are cycle
lanes painted on the road, which I
Tony Mawson with people of your ability. Hes taken think encourages drivers to give you
up running too, which he never did more room.
T
wo things deterred Tony before starting cycling again. Traffic, Tony acknowledges, is
Mawson from cycling to While his fitness has improved something that returnee cyclists
work like he used to 20 years greatly, Tony cautions against trying might find daunting. You need to
ago. One: hills. And two: no to do too much too soon when youre be aware of your road positioning,
shower facilities at work. I live on top he says. And dont take any risks.
of a hill overlooking the Aire Valley and
work at the top of a hill on the other
Fact file Sometimes I see other cyclists flying
down the inside of trucks. Id just sit
side. I had an old mountain bike and I behind.
tried riding to work on it, but I arrived In the summer, he plans to leave
covered in sweat. I thought: This is no the traffic behind entirely - at least
good. I cant start a day off like this. for some of the commute. Im going
Id read a feature on the internet to ride my cyclocross bike and use
about pedal-assist bikes. Quite a few the canal towpaths more, and theres
of the local shops had demonstrators, some woodland tracks I can use. In
so I had a go on a couple of them. winter, theyre not really suitable.With
When I went up the hills, I thought: no shower facilities at work, Tony
Wow! This is the way to go. doesnt want to get plastered with
That was two years ago: Tony mud. Yet hes not really bothered by
got a Kudos Tourer pedelec through rain when hes riding on the road. The
Cyclescheme. Now that hes fitter Name: Tony Mawson clothing has improved immensely, he
and cycling more often, hes using Lives: Leeds says. This morning it was raining here
the scheme again to get a road bike. Occupation: Sales manager for in Leeds, but I had the right sort of
He also owns a cyclocross bike and a decontamination & sterilisation clothing on and it wasnt too bad.
equipment
mountain bike. Apart from better clothing, the
Commute: Downhill into the Aire
Ive always had bikes, he says, but other big change in cycling that Tonys
Valley, then up the other side. The
as I drifted into my forties Id stopped direct route is about 5 miles each way, noticed is technology and not just
using them. I used to cycle to work but I usually take a quieter route thats in terms of his electric bike. On his
regularly in the 1990s, commuting 7.5 miles. other bikes, Tony uses a Garmin Edge
from Leeds to Bradford. Then I got a Frequency: Usually 3 times per week. 200 GPS to monitor his rides and his
car. You get lazy. Cyclescheme bikes: Kudos Tourer fitness. He uploads the GPS data to
He still has a car for work, e-bike. Cube Agree road bike. strava.com. Im hooked on it, he says.
although he spends far less on fuel Why I started cycle commuting: The thing with Strava is, you go up a
Health. As I approached 50 years old,
and on its lease payments these days hill, and youre like, Ive got a personal
I thought I neeeded to start doing
because he only drives when he has something. record there! Maybe tomorrow I could
to. He prefers to cycle. I feel more try a bit harder?
Spring/Summer 2014
My Cyclescheme
Get more online
cyclescheme.co.uk Further reading
Cycle Commuter magazine is just
the beginning. Visit the Cyclescheme Here's just a sample of Cyclescheme's reviews, guides, interviews,
website for regular news, bike and and offers. Go to cyclescheme.co.uk/community and browse,
equipment reviews, and 'how to' or use the links below go straight there.
features. There's loads of information
and support for employers and
What to do in an accident
employees, and you can log on to My
Cyclescheme to track your certificate.
http://cycsch.me/accident
You can even read digital copies of past Accidents are rare when cycling to work. If you're unlucky
issues of Cycle Commuter. enough to be involved in one, you'll be glad you read our
10-point checklist.
Get motivated to cycle more

http://cycsch.me/ten
Most of us want to ride our bikes more than we do. It's not
enough to wish it. Check out our suggestions to help make
it happen.
Compact folding bikes round-up

http://cycsch.me/folders
A bike that collapses to the size of a suitcase is ideal for taking
on the train or for storing in even the smallest studio flat.
Gilets round-up
Social Media http://cycsch.me/gilets
Follow Cyclescheme on Twitter for
French for vest or waistcoat, a gilet is a lightweight
the very latest updates, or share sleeveless jacket designed to keep wind-chill off your chest.
your 140-character thoughts with It's the idea spare layer for cool starts or evenings.
us. You can find us at twitter.com/
cycleschemeltd Commuter Tales: Ben
http://cycsch.me/ben
You can also catch up with us via
our Facebook page: visit facebook. Find out how London teacher Ben reduced the time it took
com/cyclescheme or just search him to get to work by getting a bike. Now he loves the
for 'Cyclescheme' when you're exhileration of city riding.
logged on to Facebook.
Effective traffic riding
with British Cycling
http://cycsch.me/traffic
On todays roads heavily-trafficked roads, cyclists need skills
and knowledge to become a more visible and safer rider.
Heres how.
UK designed for year - round performance
UPGRADE YOUR COMMUTE
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4VSFGPPUFEIBOEMJOHJTHVBSBOUFFEUIBOLTUP8IZUFTBDDMBJNFEGSBNFHFPNFUSZ%JTDCSBLFTPFSMPXNBJOUFOBODFBOEIJHIQFSGPSNBODF
QVODUVSFSFTJTUBOUUZSFTFOTVSFZPVHFUUPXPSLPOUJNF BOEJOUFSOBMDBCMFSPVUJOHNBYJNJTFTUIFTFCJLFTDMFBO VODMVUUFSFEBQQFBSBODF

'PSNPSFJOGPSNBUJPOBOEUPUSZPOFGPSZPVSTFMG OEZPVSOFBSFTUEFBMFSBUXIZUFCJLF
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CONTINUING TO LEAD IN A CATEGORY ALTURA CREATED
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Pit and rear vent
VIEW THE FULL SPRING/SUMMER 15 LINE AT ALTURA.EU

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Magic roundabouts n Cycling myths busted n Electric bikes

FEA TUR ING

The 1.5 is the best of both worlds:

How the Cycle to

How to: negotiate

How to: ride slower

Get comfortable 40 Electric bikes 48

TOP PRODUCTS & ESSENTIAL KIT

Cyclescheme is part of the Grass Roots Group

Choose your Cyclescheme package

Submit your application

your application to approve. Youll also get a copy of Quick-fire questions

Ive paid for the bike,

Bringing you the very best

Osprey Flap Jack Courier

Lezyne KTV Pro Drive (pair)

FLAB All Black

DISCOVERY > Dawes Dynamism triple butted

DISCOVERY 401 DISCOVERY 301 Ladies DISCOVERY 201EQ

and poor road

Altura Attack Waterproof shorts

Niterider Solas 2W rear light

RRP Cyclescheme Price

521.93 354.91 302.72

12 monthly hire payments 29.58 25.23

Total saving 167.02 219.21

KIT will pay less.

Master Lock Street Fortum

Zfal K-Traz U14

Abus Granit X-Plus 54 Mini

Tel: 01506 497 749 Email: info@endura.co.uk www.endurasport.com facebook.com/enduraofficial twitter.com/endura

Merida Speeder 300-D

A 50/34 chainset is the same Hydraulic discs offer

as you'd find on a drop-bar predictable, powerful

Flat-bar road bikes

RRP Cyclescheme Price

884.97 601.78 513.28

12 monthly hire payments 50.15 42.77

Total saving 283.19 371.69

ESSENTI assumes you are a standard rate

Ortlieb City Biker QL3 Pannier

Basil Mirte Shopping Bag

Cordo Zuidkaap Blue Laptopbag

ZECTO DRIVE AUTO

LUMEN OUTPUT: Up to 20 lumens available- 10 hours of light in daytime flash mode

POWER UP: Rechargeable via Micro USB for ultimate convenience

SRP: Rear Only 39.99

pressure you'll put on your soft bits.

ergonomic grips can make a huge

hands, the thickness. Brake hoods are generally

of the made from dual-density rubber, foam,

Note that these are rough guidelines

Combining advanced fabrics and 3M Scotchlite reective

Find out more at www.dhbsport.com

Don't feel like striding Endura Zyme short

Rapha Touring Shorts 80 | : 60

Bontrager Dual Sport shorts 44.99 | : 33.74

Swrve Men's Lightweight

Polaris Capri Pants 44.99 | : 33.74

Kalkhoff Pro Connect Impulse 9

All rechargeable batteries have The handlebar display

a limited lifespan, but this one shows you the assistance

RRP Cyclescheme Price