This post sums up what is new about the Garmin Edge 840 vs 830, so you can make up your own mind if the upgrade is useful for you. Since the debut of the Garmin Edge 840, a lot of people have been wondering what's new about the 840. Is this long awaited upgrade worth it? How does it compare to the much-loved unit it replaces, the 830? Spoiler: for a change, we do actually make a strong recommendation in our Bottom Line on this comparison - see the very end of the post. But don't miss the comparative chart first!The post Garmin Edge 840 vs 830: Whats the Difference? appeared first on Average Joe Cyclist.

Finally some good news for Team Visma | Lease a Bike. Almost a month after his fall at Dwars door Vlaanderen, Wout Van Aert was able to take his bike for a ride outside. On Friday he and his friend and training partner Jan Bakelants went on a 'coffee ride'.On Instagram, Van Aert shared some things a...

Standing at the edge of the West Gate in Clonmel, an entire Country came to a halt as World Number 1, Sean Kelly, strove for a second consecutive victory in the second ever Nissan Classic. Emotions were running high. Beside me was a local farmer, on the other side was a girl in a Dunnes []The post King Kelly roars into Clonmel first appeared on .

Looking for a cycling experience that combines the pleasure of traditional cycling with the advances of modern technology? Look no further.In a world where efficiency and convenience are increasingly sought after, pedal-assist electric bikes are emerging as the perfect companions for avid and casual riders alike.But before analyzing their main benefits, let us list some of their distinguishing features.What are the characteristics of a pedal assist bike?Pedal-assisted bikes represent an undeniable evolution in the world of cycling.But what exactly sets a pedal assist electric bike apart from its traditional counterparts?Let's dive into the defining characteristics that make these bikes not just a mode of transportation, but a gateway to a new cycling experiences.Seamless Integration of TechnologyAt the heart of every pedal assist electric bicycle is a sophisticated blend of technology and classic cycling mechanics.Unlike a standard electric bike, a pedal assist bicycle subtly incorporates an electric motor that activates only when you pedal, offering a boost of power that feels both natural and exhilarating.It's like riding with a gentle, steady tailwind that propels you forward with less effort.Customizable Riding ExperienceOne of the most appealing features of a pedal assist bike is its customizable riding experience. Thanks to multiple assist levels, riders can choose exactly how much help they want from their bike.Whether it's a gentle push on a flat road or a significant boost up a steep hill, pedal assist electric bikes cater to your personal riding style and physical needs.Enhanced AccessibilityPedal assist electric bicycles are revolutionizing how people of all ages and abilities experience cycling.The additional power from the pedal assist system makes cycling more accessible, especially for those who might find traditional biking challenging due to fitness levels, health issues, or hilly terrain.This inclusivity opens up the joys of cycling to a broader audience, making it a universally enjoyable activity.Efficiency and environmental protectionIn an era where environmental consciousness is paramount, pedal assist bicycles offer a more eco-friendly alternative to motor vehicles.These bikes are not only excellent for commuting and urban travel but also play a significant role in reducing carbon footprints.Their energy efficiency and low environmental impact make pedal assist bikes a responsible choice for both the planet and the rider.But... How do these issues affect our daily lives?Benefits of pedal assist bikesPedal assist bikes, often referred to as pedal assist electric bicycles, are rapidly gaining popularity for several compelling reasons:1 - Ease of RidingOne of the most significant benefits of a pedal assist electric bike is the ease of riding it brings to cycling.The integrated motor provides a boost to your pedaling efforts, allowing you to travel longer distances without excessive fatigue. This feature is particularly beneficial for commuting, as it enables riders to arrive at their destination without the sweat and strain associated with traditional biking.2 - Fitness BenefitsDespite the electric assist, these bikes still provide a great workout. For the beauty of a pedal assist bike lies in its ability to let riders control the level of assistance.This means you can still pedal and exercise your muscles, but with less strain. So its an excellent way for people to stay fit, especially for those who do not have much time to train or are not in their best physical shape.3 - Exploring Further and FasterWith a pedal assist electric bike, adventures are no longer limited by physical stamina. The additional power allows riders to explore new terrains and cover greater distances.Whether its tackling hills more easily or cruising through more challenging trails, these bikes open up a world of exploration possibilities that might be daunting with a standard bike.4 - Increased Practicality for Everyday LifePedal assist bikes bring an added layer of practicality to daily life. They are ideal for urban commuters who need to navigate through busy streets or for those looking to run errands without worrying about parking or traffic jams.The added speed and efficiency make pedal assist electric bicycles a smart choice for modern, fast-paced lifestyles.5 - Facilitating Group RidesAn often-overlooked advantage of pedal assist bikes is their ability to help riders keep up with faster cyclists in group settings. This feature is particularly valuable during group rides, where varying experience levels and cycling speeds can create gaps between riders.This inclusivity enhances the social aspect of cycling, making group outings more enjoyable and accessible for everyone involved.So, pedal assist bikes represent not just a step forward in cycling technology but a leap towards a more sustainable, inclusive, and enjoyable future in personal transportation.Types of pedal assist bikesThe world of pedal assist bikes is as diverse as it is innovative, offering a range of options to suit different cycling preferences and needs. From sleek road models to rugged off-road designs, each type of pedal assist electric bicycle comes with unique characteristics.Let's explore some of them in more detail:Urban Pedal Assist BikesDesigned for city dwellers, urban pedal assist electric bikes are the epitome of convenience and style. These bikes often feature a comfortable riding position, practical accessories like racks and fenders, and a motor system thats optimized for stop-and-go traffic. Ideal for commuting and running errands, they make navigating through busy streets a breeze.Mountain Pedal Assist BikesFor the off-road enthusiast, mountain pedal assist bicycles offer an exhilarating way to tackle challenging terrains. Equipped with robust motors, sturdy frames, and suspension systems, these bikes provide the necessary power to tackle the steepest climbs and the most rugged trails.Gravel Pedal Assist BikesGravel riding, a hybrid of road and mountain biking, has gained significant popularity in the last years, and pedal assist bikes are a perfect match for this adventure. Gravel pedal assist bicycles are designed to handle a mix of surfaces, from smooth pavements to rough gravel paths. Their versatility makes them ideal for riders looking to venture beyond the beaten path, while the pedal assist feature adds an extra level of comfort and endurance.Road Pedal Assist BikesFor those who crave speed and efficiency, road pedal assist electric bikes are a dream come true. These sleek machines are built for performance, with a focus on aerodynamics and lightweight construction. The pedal assist system is finely tuned to enhance the road cycling experience, providing a boost on long stretches and steep ascents without compromising the bike's agility.However, regardless of the type of electric bike you choose, it is important to consider two basic aspects: weight and motor.Crow Bicycles' entire range of electric bikes features the integration of a Fazua motor, known for its light weight and for providing a smooth and natural riding experience.In fact, its compact design and high efficiency make it the best choice for riders looking for the perfect balance between power and subtlety in their riding.Would you like to enjoy the freedom and versatility that pedal-assist bikes offer? Visit our website and find your new adventure companion.DISCOVER ALL OUR MODELS

When two close friends of ours Cathy and Andrea first mentioned the #pedaltheperiphery idea in support ofNIPANC (Northern Ireland Pancreatic Cancer), it was a given that we would be right behind them in any way possible.Living with the grief of losing two loved ones, Andrea Harrower (48) from Dromara and her sister Cathy Booth (46) from Hillsborough, will on June 9th set out on an epic journey to pedal the periphery of the whole of NI taking in 480 miles in just 48 hours. Preparations are underway. Andrea, a personal trainer said: Cycling was so important to Paddy, his self-devised challenges, and other official events at home and abroad. During his illness, he set himself his own challenges as a reason to get out of bed until the day he died. As a family, we and our two sons, Fraser (19) and Alex (15), and my sister and brother did a final ride out from home with him only a couple of weeks before he passed away. His motto was: Im not living with cancer, cancer is living with me and Im taking it for a ride. Wanting something positive to come from the situation, the money raised will go to research in memory of Andrea's late husband Paddy and a school friend of Cathys, Natalie Wilson who died aged 40 from the disease, leaving behind three young children.As a bid to help 'warm the girls up' for their 480 nonstop miles in June, we arranged a ride out at Slieve Croob, a popular spot in Co. Down, Northern Ireland renowned for its sharp elevation. The ride was led by sisters Andrea and Cathy and the challenge was to complete 4800 ft of climbing... Easy eh!?Some folk toughed it out and went it alone, some tag teamed it, one guy completed the challenge on his single speed, we had supporters who came along to hike to the summit and cheered along the passing cyclists who really did have to dig deep at times.All in all it was a fantastic day surrounded by bikes and incredible people who came together to stand in support of Cancer.We feel extremely privileged to be in a positionto offer technical support as they prepare for this mammoth challenge. The funds and awareness that we have raised off the back of our Hilly #fustlefamily ride on Sunday will all add to the overall goal to help change the horrifying statistics of this horrible disease amongst our loved ones.As always there was plenty of camaraderie and encouragement amongst the crew.Together we have raised almost 1000 with some folk joking that they donated so they didn't have to endure 4800ft slogging their bike up a mountain!?We can't express how grateful we are for the support we have had in the run up to this fundraiser.Overall the girls have raised over 24k with a goal of 60k which is what it will cost to fund a PHD student to carry out a specific piece of research on early diagnosis and screening.We wish them well and look forward to following the progress and offering of our support where we can.If you would like to find out more about their Periphery of NI cycle you can click the link below:https://www.nipanc.org/post/two-sisters-two-bikes-two-daysFundraising page:https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/pedaltheperiphery

This post describes the health benefits of electric bikes, based on scientific research and on the experiences of ebike riders. These benefits include getting significant levels of exercise, improving cardiac health, improving blood sugar levels, strengthening muscles, bones and joints, building confidence, being able to keep cycling as we age, and preventing serious diseases.The post 5 Important Health Benefits of Electric Bikes appeared first on Average Joe Cyclist.

Paul ODonovan, the Olympic and World Champion rower once said that rowing is a very simple sport, A to B as fast as you can go, close the eyes and pull like a dog. Whilst this is a very simplified account of what it takes to succeed in rowing, the same sentiments ring true for []The post Free Speed first appeared on .

Cleaning a gravel bike seems like a simple task, but doing it right can make a big difference in its performance and longevity.And no, hosing it down after every ride isn't enough.In this guide, we'll share some tips on how to properly clean your electric gravel bike to maintain its components and always have it ready for the next ride.So, let's get down to business!How to clean an electric gravel bike?Owning an electric gravel bike opens up a world of adventure and exploration, but if you want it to perform at its best and last for years to come, you'll need to take good care of your trusty companion.Here's how to clean the different parts of your bike to keep them in perfect condition:1 - Frame and componentsStart by mixing a mild detergent or bike cleaner with water in a bucket.Dip a soft bristle brush or sponge into the soapy water and start scrubbing the frame, fork, handlebars, stem, and the rest of the components.Pay special attention to the dirtiest areas and use a toothbrush to clean the more difficult areas, such as the gears and brakes, more precisely.2 - Wheels and tiresNext, we will clean the wheels and tires.Start by thoroughly cleaning the rims to ensure more effective braking.Check that the tires are free of debris and sharp objects that can cause punctures.And finally, clean the sidewalls of the tires to remove accumulated debris.3 - TransmissionThe drivetrain, including the chain, cassette and derailleur wheels, is a very delicate area that requires special attention.Apply a degreaser to the chain and let it work for a few minutes.Then use a chain cleaning tool or an old toothbrush to clean the chain and derailleur components.Finally, rinse with clean water.4 - BrakesCarefully cleaning brake calipers and pads is crucial to the safety and performance of your brakes.Check for debris or contaminants on the braking surfaces and remove them with a soft cloth or brush.Check brake pads for wear and replace them if necessary.5 - Saddle and seat postTo clean the saddle and seat post, a damp cloth will suffice to remove any dirt or sweat.Make sure the seat post is well lubricated and adjusted to your height.6 - Cables and housingExamine the cables and housing for signs of wear or damage.Then lubricate the cables to maintain smooth shifting and braking.7 - Bearings and pivot pointsCheck the bearings of the headset, bottom bracket and hub for looseness and roughness.If necessary, relubricate these bearings.Also lubricate the pivot points of the derailleurs and brakes to make sure they move freely.Once you have spotless all components, rinse the bike with water to remove product residue and dry it with a towel or allow it to air dry.We recommend you perform this ritual at least once a week. Maintaining proper cleaning will help to enhance the reliability and durability of your gravel bike.How to maintain your gravel bike?Although cleaning is important, maintenance of an electric gravel bike also includes some additional considerations:Periodic inspectionsPeriodic inspection of your gravel bike can help you catch problems early to ensure a safer and more efficient riding experience. Plus, it can also save you money on potential repairs.A thorough inspection includes visual checks, component testing and recording maintenance activities.StorageTo prolong the life of your gravel bike, store it in a dry place, avoiding damp areas such as basements or outdoor spaces.If possible, hang the bike from a hook or use a kickstand to prevent the wheels from deflating while not in use.If you have no choice but to store it outdoors, use a cover to protect it from the weather and prevent rust.Remove the batteryThere are several reasons why it makes sense to remove the battery from a bicycle when it is not in use.Firstly, because it prevents the battery from gradually discharging.Secondly, because it reduces the risk of theft, since eBike batteries are very valuable components and an easy target for thieves.And finally, because it will help us to extend the eBike battery life, since protecting the battery from extreme temperatures can positively affect its performance.So, if your gravel bike has a removable battery, store it separately in a cool, dry place, trying to maintain a charge of about 50%.And if it doesn't, don't forget to check out our selection of super light gravel eBikes with removable motor.I want a gravel bike with removable motor

Fustles Causeway is one of the best aggressivegravel bikesavailable and was born when leading MTB design consultant, Alastair Beckett, started exploring forgotten local trails from his door during lockdown. The MTB influence is clear in the tall, slack head tube, steeply sloping top tube and generous tire clearance. This Control version comes with a brake lever controlled dropper as standard for extra jiving room on techy trails, but you still get a full set of bike packing mounts too. Its not the smoothest or calmest ride up front though and pricing is expensive compared to some similar direct sell options.Tall head tube, long reach, slack head angle and flared bars all make for MTB style control(Image credit: GuyKesTV)DESIGNThe super steep slope of the top tube and tall (185mm on the S/M size I tested) head tube of the Fustle give it a distinctive MTB look right away. Reach is long at 400mm, the head angle is XC MTB territory at 69 degrees and the whole frame is tested to MTB strength standards. Both down tube and top tube taper and flatten dramatically towards the stout 31.6mm internal diameter seat tube and you get a press fit bottom bracket at the bottom corner. Flattened un-braced, oval seatstays curve down towards sculpted asymmetric dropouts with a flat mount for the rear brake. The curved and tapered stays are braced but still leave room for a 700C x 50mm tire or 2.1in (53mm) if you use 650C wheels.You get semi-internal cable routing for a dropper post (and gear and brake cable) in the down tube. The evolved 1.1 frame tested here has foam cable liners to keep the control lines quiet too. The bike packing fixture buffet includes three bottle cage mounts on the frame, a top tube bag mount and four point rack and mudguard mounts at the rear. The broad topped full carbon fork has three bolts down each leg for bottles or bags and a crown bolt for a mudguard but no corresponding mounts on the dropouts.Bikes and frame/fork sets (879.99) are available in four sizes and three different colour fade designs.You get upgraded Shimano brake rotors as standard too(Image credit: GuyKesTV)COMPONENTSFustle Causeway complete bikes come in Core, Lite and Control versions the latter I tested here. This uses a single chainring Shimano GRX 800 11-speed gravel groupset including RT70 alloy centre brake rotors and a Brand-X Descend dropper post connected to the left hand lever. Shimano house brand Pro also provide the short 70mm stem (same across all sizes and the widely flared (440mm top, 550mm tip) shallow drop handlebar. The Controlalso getsHunts 4 Season Gravel Wide wheelswith a 25mm internal width fattening up the 44mm wide WTB Raddler tan wall tires.Shimano's top spec GRX 800 gravel group provides the super reliable and slick operating stop and go kit(Image credit: GuyKesTV)RIDE, HANDLING AND PERFORMANCEUnsurprisingly, the geometry dominates first impressions of the Fustle, with the high head tube bringing the bars right up and back for a commanding but more compact feel than you might expect from the extended reach. While the base geometry is notably stable, the short stem creates a light rather than grounded feel which more traditional drop bar riders will need to adapt to.However, if youre coming from an MTB background or just want to take your gravel riding into that kind of territory then youre going to love the way the Fustle feels. The big pommels of the Shimano shifters give excellent hand support if you want to stay high on stutter bump or steep sections, but the Causeway really comes alive when you drop into the flare of the bars and drop the seat as well. The fact you can drop the saddle using the left hand lever rather than some sort of awkward add on is also a big bonus in terms of ergonomics and aesthetics.With seat slammed and grip splayed, the head angle and extra reach stability lets you attack descents far harder and faster than youd expect from a gravel bike without feeling like youre going to get trebucheted over the bars. When things get techy and twisty that short stem lets you chop and change lines with fast reacting fine control and makes it easy to grab the front tire back if it starts sliding. This happens easily particularly in the wet so Id be tempted to fit a more aggressive front tire such as WTBs Resolute to make the most of the geometry in slippery conditions. Or you could just do what the Fustle encourages and commit to getting the tires right over onto their side knobs by properly chucking the Causeway into corners and letting its enhanced control help you surf out the sideways moments with a dirty great grin on your face.The Control version of the Causeway Trail comes with a dropper post as standard(Image credit: GuyKesTV)The stiffness of the fork and MTB strength frame keeps feedback very clear and precise too, but even with a 44mm tire running low pressures on a 25mm internal rim the front end can get rough once bumps get bigger. That means wed be tempted to take Fustle up on their RockShox Rudy 30m travel suspension fork offer to really open up its off-piste potential. Especially as youll get it for 550 rather than the normal 779 RRP and there are no mudguard mounts on the standard fork to mourn anyway if you use it for commuting or rainy day road miles.The front end stiffness is more noticeable as the back end delivers a really good blend of forgiveness on rougher trails while still pushing on well through the pedals. That becomes increasingly obvious the further you ride and while it cant quite match the smoothness of steel, it definitely wont make you regret choosing alloy. Just over 10kg with a dropper post is a decent weight and the Raddler tires also roll reasonably well while still finding driving grip in more filth than youd expect. The tall ride position means youll need to hunker down into headwinds though and the default feel on the road is definitely cruise control until something more interesting happens than lets race the roadies.In terms of kit feedback Fustle arent big enough to offer SRAM equipped bikes yet, but Shimanos top level GRX is super reliable and functional kit. Alastair (aka Mr Fustle) also told me theyd only had one installation related issue with the press fit bottom bracket needed to give the generous tire space without excess back end length or tube shaping and that chimes with feedback from other brands.44mm WTB tires on 25mm internal width Hunt wheels provide comfort and control but we'd be tempted by the optional Rudy suspension fork upgrade to really rally the rough stuff(Image credit: GuyKesTV)VERDICTIf youre after a road bike to ride on the dirt the Fustle isnt for you. However, if youre a mountain biker or aggro gravelist who wants a drop bar option that still lets you play fast and loose on singletrack and intermediate grade trails, then the Causeway Control is up for a lot more mischief than most. Top quality Shimano and decent supporting kit adds durability to the bike packing fixture versatility too.

Did you know that you can use an electric bike to get fit? This post describes 3 different ways that you can use an ebike to get fit and healthy. Turns out, an ebike provides excellent ways for you to get fit.The post 3 Ways to Use an Electric Bike to Get Fit appeared first on Average Joe Cyclist.