UK steel bike builder Temple Cycles has introduced a new flat-bar commuter bike with a nine-speed Shimano CUES groupset to its range. The Bristol-based brand says the Classic Disc is a response to demand from its customers after receiving repeated requests for a city bike with disc brakes. But Temple says the new Classic Disc is also capable of some weekend gravel riding. Built from Reynolds 520 steel tubes, the new Classic Disc comes with 40mm WTB Vulpine gravel tyres, 1x9 Shimano CUES and Shimanos MT200 disc brakes. It joins the brands growing range of steel road, gravel, hybrid, city and ebikes. Temple says its premium bikes are built in the UK, with the rest of its range assembled in Portugal. Read more: Temple Cycles has launched its most affordable gravel bike yet for less than 1,500 Off the beaten path WTB's 40mm Vulpine tyres look a great choice for gravel. Temple Cycles Temple says the new commuter bike is just as happy going off the beaten path for the occasional gravel ride thanks to the sturdy steel frame and WTB tyres, which are also available on the brands Adventure Disc range of gravel bikes. Unlike those gravel bikes, the Classic Disc comes with Temples AL345 flat riser bar, designed to provide a comfortable upright riding position and inspire confidence for beginner cyclists and urban commuters. The new bike is supplied with Temples Bristol saddle, with a Brooks leather saddle available as a paid upgrade. The new Classic Disc is priced at 1,195 with a 1x9 Shimano CUES groupset. Temple Cycles The Classic Disc is available in four sizes, from Small to X-Large, with the Medium bike weighing in at 12.08kg. All sizes are priced at 1,195. Temple, which was formed in 2014 by University of Bristol graduate Matt Mears, also this month opened the doors on its new retail store, showroom and workshop on Whiteladies Road in Bristol, bucking a recent trend for high-street closures. Bristol is where we learned how to do this, says Mears. Its where our bikes are built, and where many of our earliest customers came from. Having a central space here feels important not just commercially, but socially.

The fourth monument of the season, Lige-Bastogne-Lige, delivered a lot of action. Tadej Pogacar took his third consecutive win but not without a battle as Paul Seixas had him go to his limit to go solo. The Frenchman has shown extraordinary climbing legs; perhaps better than a Remco Evenepoel who...

Velocio's cycling apparel comes highly recommended, and now it's your chance to find out why, with massive savings across the range, but there are plenty of big savings to choose from at Sigma, including cycling shoes, helmets and bikes

The race had already broken apart long before the finale, but when Lige-Bastogne-Lige reached its decisive sequence of climbs, the expected pattern began to form. Tadej Pogacar moved to the front on La Redoute and the selection followed. What stood out was who remained with him. Paul Seixas was st...

Warm, comfortable and versatile, though not all of its features are truly reversible

Tadej Pogaar will race a new prototype Colnago time trial bike at the prologue of the Tour de Romandie today, called the TT2. The Italian brand says the TT2 is an evolution of the TT1 time trial bike, which Pogaar has used in support of all four of his Tour de France wins to date, with development centred primarily on weight reduction. Colnago claims the TT2s frameset (frame, fork and dedicated seatpost) is 550g lighter than the TT1s in a size small, which it says mirrors a wider shift in aero bike design. Colnago says time trial courses have become increasingly punchy and technical in recent years, with weight a more important factor than it has been traditionally. The Y1Rs was the bike of choice when Pogaar won the stage 12 time trial to Peyragudes in 2025. Tim de Waele/Getty Images Indeed, while an extreme example, Pogaar rode a stripped-down Y1Rs aero bike for the Tour de Frances mountain time trial this contrasted with the approach of his rivals, Jonas Vingegaard and Remco Evenepoel, who rode their respective TT bikes. The latest developments to Colnagos time-trial platform suggest that, although Pogaar won that race, the TT1 was deemed too overweight to ride on the day. The TT2 features softer trailing lines, plus smoothing of the rearside of the head tube. Alongside this, Colnago says it has modified the aerodynamics, delivering a claimed two-watt improvement at 50km/h, based on a weighted average across the typical yaw angles cyclists tend to encounter. Colnago also claims the TT2 reduces the destabilising effect of crosswinds, improving handling by limiting the need for rider corrections factors it claims can translate to higher average speeds. The seatstays have been redesigned, and there's larger clearance for the tyres. Visually, the frameset sports softer trailing edges at the head tube, a wider-arcing fork crown and a modified seatpost, while more space is left between the rear tyre and seat tube. The new bike has also reverted to a more traditional seatstay arrangement, dropping the TT1s horizontal bar layout that intersected with the bottle cage. Colnago has confirmed to BikeRadar that the new bike can sport 30mm tyres with the requisite 4mm clearance, as required by ISO standard (up from the TT1s 28mm), and can sport up to a 70-tooth chainring in a 1x setup. The fork crown has also been modified. For reference, the largest chainring sizes weve spotted on the WorldTour to date include those used by Ineos-Grenadiers Josh Tarling and Filippo Ganna (among a few others), typically topping out at 68 teeth. Pogaar will ride a size small (S) at the Tour de Romandie, but Colnago says sizes XS, M and L will also be available. The smallest size is said to broaden the fit range, while the M and L frames feature taller stacks to ease position setup, according to the brand. Colnago has retained the same TT basebar arrangement as before, while Pogaar uses ENVE-branded extensions. Colnago Availability to customers is expected from September 2026, with pricing still to be confirmed.

Flying with your road or gravel bike usually means spannering stress, compromises on protection, and a quiet hope that nothing goes wrong in the cargo hold. With the ROAD BIKE BAG PRO, EVOC promise maximum protection with minimal wrenching required. We tested the 2026 update of this popular premium bike bag to find out whether it truly delivers on its high-flying price tag.EVOC ROAD BIKE BAG PRO | 11.9 kg 995.00 (Travel Triple incl. backpack and trolley 1,309.00) | Manufacturers websiteUntil recently, many road riders have known EVOC mainly from the mountain bike world. Over the years, the Munich-based brand have built a strong reputation for their well-designed backpacks, sturdy protectors and tough transport solutions. With the ROAD BIKE BAG PRO, they are now bringing that expertise to road and gravel travel.The bag is based on a carefully thought-out hybrid concept. Rigid hardcase elements at the top and bottom shield your bike from heavy impacts, while reinforced fabric side panels save weight, allowing the bag to fold down when not in use. Naturally, it does not offer the bombproof feel of a full hard-shell case. Instead, the ROAD BIKE BAG PRO positions itself as a smart compromise between protection, weight and everyday usability. Compared to pure hard cases, this approach saves both space and kilos something which matters when many airlines set a 32 kg limit for sports luggage.In our office, the EVOC ROAD BIKE BAG PRO tipped the scales at 11.9 kg including all the necessary inserts and small parts. Thats not exactly lightweight, but it still comes in below comparable competitors such as the Thule RoundTrip. That leaves you with around 20 kg in reserve for your bike and accessories. Even if you have a hefty gravel bike with a full bikepacking setup, or a time trial machine packed for a training camp, it should fit within the limit without any drama.In Review: What Can The EVOC ROAD BIKE BAG PRO Do?With the ROAD BIKE BAG PRO, the Munich-based brand are certainly not flying in economy this bag is aimed squarely at the business class end of the market. At just under 1,000, this hybrid bag with hardcase elements and reinforced fabric side panels does not come cheap. From the first touch, it is clear that the focus is not on shaving grams, but on maximum protection and stress-free travel. Despite its sizeable presence, the bag rolls quietly and smoothly through the airport thanks to its large, softly rubberised wheels. Even in busy terminals, you can manoeuvre it with confidence and control.The biggest advantage of this bag over many of the alternatives is its widened front section: It accommodates handlebars up to 50 cm wide, so there is no need to remove or twist your bars. Your bike is ready to ride from the moment you arrive. For modern road and gravel bikes with integrated cockpits, that is a genuine game changer.Simply unscrew your pedals, take out the wheels, slot the bike in, and you are done. No fiddling with the cockpit, no rechecking saddle height on the hotel balcony. A few minutes after landing, youre ready to start clocking up your first kilometres on Mallorcan tarmac, or carving through the forests around Girona.Sensitive components are very well protected inside the bag. On our test flight, the hardcase sections at the top and bottom absorbed every knock without issue, and the bike arrived without a single scratch. A long-term review across multiple flights is still to come, but first impressions are reassuring. The removable bike mount can be taken out of the bag for easier installation, and its compatible with almost all common thru-axle standards.Additional kit such as pedals or tools can be neatly stored in the internal compartment. The wheels slip into the supplied wheel bags and sit securely on either side of the frame. When not in use, the bag folds down to save space, so you can tuck it under a bed or store it in the cellar. Inside, numerous straps, pads and pockets keep everything protected and organised. For added peace of mind, an integrated TSA-approved combination lock should stop over-zealous security staff from cutting open the zips during inspections on international trips, particularly when travelling to the USA.On the downside, the initial setup is time-consuming and requires a fair bit of patience. The printed instructions are difficult to read and, in our case, the QR code linking to the video tutorial led nowhere. However, once youve figured out how the system works, repeated assembly and disassembly become quick and straightforward.The side stabiliser rods require a bit of muscle to install, as they have to be pushed into the lower mounting points. The first time you fit them, it feels slightly awkward and takes some persuasion. With a bit of practice, though, the process becomes noticeably easier. Once installed, the rods significantly improve lateral stability, without adding any meaningful weight. The colour coding helps you match the parts correctly, but the insertion itself is not entirely seamless.We have heard of isolated cases within our circle where the mounting points were damaged during installation. We were unable to replicate this in our review, but a long-term assessment is still pending. In the cases we are aware of, EVOC handled the situation in a customer-friendly manner and replaced the affected bags without complication.The side stabiliser rods require a gentle push to slot into the lower mountsadding some necessary stability to the bag.Thanks to the two large main wheels and an additional detachable clip-on wheel at the front, you can comfortably roll the EVOC bag over longer distances through car parts and terminals, without having to take all the weight. The extra wheel also boosts stability and helps manoeuvre the bag through the airport, but you should remove it before check-in and store it in the designated side pocket.The locking mechanism is not entirely intuitive. In our review, the wheel came loose in the boot of the car, despite appearing to be properly engaged, so in theory it could also detach on a baggage carousel. The hardcase lid will not stay pristine either. Scuff marks from air travel are almost inevitable. Functionally, that is not an issue, but over time the bag is likely to show signs of wear sooner than its premium first impression might suggest.The clip-on wheel locks into place on the underside of the bag and together with the rear main wheels creates a stable three-wheel system with excellent tracking.Before your flight, however, you should remove the wheel and store it in the designated side pocket.Paired with the 4-Wheel Trolley and the URBAN PACK, the system feels complete. In the so-called Travel Triple, EVOC bundle the ROAD BIKE BAG PRO with a 100 litre trolley for your main luggage, and a 25 litre URBAN PACK backpack for hand luggage or training sessions on location, all at a reduced package price. While the bike bag keeps your pride and joy safe, the generously sized trolley takes care of the rest of your travel kit. Just like the BIKE BAG PRO, it glides smoothly through the terminal and on to the hotel thanks to four easy-rolling wheels. The 25 litre URBAN PACK works as a versatile companion for cabin baggage, daily use, or the ride to the training session.Both bags impress with well-organised compartments and plenty of storage space. Even bulky items like helmets fit comfortably inside the trolley. Visually, the combination stays deliberately understated and clean, appealing to road riders who value style and functionality over an overtly outdoorsy look.Who is the EVOC ROAD BIKE BAG PRO For?Riders with integrated cockpits, a meticulously dialled-in bike fit or delicate carbon frames will benefit most from the fact that their bike can be transported almost unchanged and is ready to ride as soon as they arrive. The high price tag is clearly aimed at frequent travellers. That said, when you consider the value of modern carbon bikes, the investment quickly puts itself into perspective, especially when your bike rolls out of the bag at your destination without a scratch.If you only fly occasionally, or prioritise the smallest possible pack size, you will likely be happier with a simpler and more affordable solution. For example, if you travel with a classic mountain bike and can do without the specific road-focused features, the MOUNTAIN BIKE BAG PRO offers a more budget-friendly alternative within EVOCs range.Conclusion: Would We Buy The EVOC ROAD BIKE BAG PRO?Yes. The EVOC ROAD BIKE BAG PRO is one of the most thoughtfully designed transport solutions on the market. It impresses with a high level of protection, a well executed hybrid concept and, above all, the ability to pack your bike with minimal changes, while preserving your bike fit settings. It is neither lightweight nor affordable, and if you only fly occasionally, there are certainly cheaper alternatives. However, if you travel regularly with your bike and want a carefully engineered, confidence-inspiring solution, the EVOC ROAD BIKE BAG PRO is a long-term investment worth considering.10 Tips For Stress-Free Travel With Your Bike: Place an AirTag or tracker in the case. You can use it to check whether your bike is still in Milan, Madrid or already en route to your final destination. Take photos before check-in. A quick picture of the closed case including the baggage label makes documentation and discussions at the lost property desk much easier if something goes wrong. Inspect your bike immediately after landing. Check for visible damage while you are still at the airport. Claims are far easier to handle before you leave the arrivals area. Check airline rules in advance. Depending on your fare, status or credit card, transporting a bike case can be free or at least significantly cheaper. Reading the small print can save you a surprising amount of money. Allow extra time. Oversized luggage often requires a separate drop-off. If you are travelling with a bike, do not cut it fine at the airport. Reduce your tire pressures before the flight. Do not deflate them completely, but lower the pressure well below your usual riding setup especially if youre riding tubeless. Pressure differences in the cargo hold can otherwise cause unnecessary stress. Factor in customs and security checks. TSA-approved combination locks help prevent zips from being cut open during inspections. Secure loose parts separately. Pedals, thru-axles and tools should go in a dedicated compartment, not loose inside the case. Pack the right tools. A small kit with a torque wrench, spare derailleur hanger and charging cable for electronic shifting can be worth its weight in gold at a training camp. Use brake spacers or transport inserts. Disc brake pad spacers prevent you from accidentally pulling the brake lever with the wheels removed, which could cause the pistons to close. TopsThoughtful protection conceptBike fit settings remain unchanged during transportExcellent transport performanceFlopsAmbitious priceWheel locking mechanism could be improvedSide stabiliser rods require significant force to installFor more information, visit evoc.com.Der Beitrag Hot or Not? EVOC ROAD BIKE BAG PRO in Review erschien zuerst auf GRAN FONDO Cycling Magazine.

The last time Tadej Pogacar raced in the Romandie region, it left a mark that has never fully faded. More than a decade on, as he prepares to start the Tour de Romandie, the Slovenian arrives not only as the defining force in modern cycling, but with a memory from his youth that still carries physic...

Happy Prologue Day to all who celebrate! Callum is here managing your adrenaline levels until then...