UAE Team Emirates' Isaac del Toro has secured himself overall victory at the 2024 Vuelta a Asturias as Finn Fisher-Black managed to take the stage win on the final stage in Oviedo.After a group of six riders had rode clear early on to form the day's breakaway, including Movistar Team's sprint star,...

Looking for body protection to wear when mountain biking? We've tried and tested the best protective vests, back protectors and more to help keep you covered. Best protection vests/body armourFuelled by ever-improving, safer and more stable bikes, weve all got faster downhill on trails that now pack in more Continue reading

The Campagnolo HPPM is the brands first power meter, with 16 sensors and a claimed accuracy of /- 1 per cent.HPPM stands for High Precision Power Measurement and the power meter is said to pursue the goal of providing the most precise data possible.The Camapgnolo HPPM costs $2,449 / 2,240, with UK pricing to be confirmed.Not what we expectedThe HPPM has been revealed after a period of speculation about a Campagnolo power meter. - CampagnoloWe first thought a Campagnolo power meter was in the works with the launch of Campagnolo Super Record WRL in 2023, where a cut-out was visible on the inside of the new groupsets crank arm.We then spotted a Campagnolo power meter in February when it was leaked on the Canyon website.At launch, the Campagnolo Record WRL crank arm had a cut-out we expected to house a power meter. - Oscar Huckle / Our MediaHowever, the Campagnolo HPPM power meter is not what we expected. Rather than being a crank-based power meter, the HPPM is a spider-based power meter, with its 16 sensors positioned in the spokes of the crankset.This also means the Campagnolo HPPM power meter has a different look. Gone is the smooth body of the Campagnolo SPW crankset and a more conventional two-part design is in its place.How does the Campagnolo HPPM power meter work?The power meter has 16 strain gauges and a gyroscope. - CampagnoloMany of the best power meters claim accuracy within /- 1 per cent and Campagnolo is keen to stress how its first power meter is this accurate too.The Campagnolo HPPM has 16 strain gauges with four in each quarter of the crankset.Campagnolo says the gauges produce multiple readings, which are combined using an algorithm to achieve the power meters readings.The company says the power meter employs a Wheatstone bridge design, an electrical circuit used to measure unknown electrical resistance and said to be more accurate than other circuits.The HPPMs accuracy is also due to a gyroscope providing live measurements and high-frequency data sampling.Angular velocity and torque signals are measured every five milliseconds. The frequency is 200 hertz for the clearest possible reading of the data, according to Campagnolo.4,000 wattsCampagnolo says the HPPM will provide power readings up to 4,000 watts. - CampagnoloThe Campagnolo HPPMs functionality extends beyond riding ability or even conditions.Campagnolo says the HPPM will measure power meter readings up to 4,000 watts.The operating temperature of the power meter also has a range of 80C, from -20C (-4F) to 60C (140F).Campagnolo says its first power meter has high data stability with internal temperature compensation.The brand also promises super fast charging, with the serviceable battery taking 3h 45min to reach full power.The battery charge lasts five weeks, assuming 500km per week at 20C, according to Campagnolo. The power meter uses the same magnetic charging port as Campagnolo Super Record WRL.New My Campy 3.0 companion appThe My Campy 3.0 app enables you to calibrate the HPPM and see live data readings. - CampagnoloCampagnolo has launched the new My Campy 3.0 app to support the HPPM power meter.The cycling app enables you to calibrate the system in a few steps and see live data from the power meter.The app shows the battery charge of all components in theCampagnolo ecosystem, such as the derailleurs and shifters, and the shift count of the cranks and cassette.The system uses Bluetooth and ANT to connect with a bicycle computer.Campagnolo HPPM range optionsThere are three crank-length options available. - CampagnoloThe Campagnolo HPPM range caters to a variety of riders.It is available with three chainring options: 29/45, 32/48 and 34/50.There are three crank-length options available, too, ranging from 170mm to 175mm.The crankset is hollow carbon with a titanium axle and Campagnolos Ultra-Smooth Bearings.Campagnolo says the HPPM power meter weighs 656g, with a 172.5mm crankset and the 29/45 chainrings.

Institute for Public Policy Research says latest data also highlight widening health inequalities and failure of levelling up

For the first time since Gent Wevelgem, over a month ago, Lotto Dstny's Arnaud De Lie is back racing this Sunday afternoon at the Famenne Ardennes Classic.It's always difficult when you can't race, but I've now put that behind me," the talented Belgian reflects of his month-long break from the pelo...

Shimano Essa is a new 1x drivetrain, 8-speed groupset for affordable mountain bikes and urban bikes.The new range complements Shimanos 8-speed flat-bar Acera, Altus and Tourney TX component families.In a move similar to Cues, which replaced several 9 to 11-speed component lines in favour of a unified system, Shimano says Essa harmonises an often complex set of component groups.However, unlike Cues, Shimano says Essas 1x drivetrain and 8-speed components will be backwards-compatible with Acera, Altus and Tourney TX, aiding the brands ambition to simplify its product line-up for the next generation of cyclists.Shimano has also revealed new additions to Cues and it's non-series hubs.Essence of ActiveEssa is designed for budget mountain bikes, fitness bikes and hybrid bikes. - ShimanoShimano says Essa uses the Essence of Active concept, which will help elevate the brands 8-speed componentry.Essa suits a range of casual sport bikes, including budget mountain bikes, fitness bikes and hybrid bikes, according to Shimano.Shimano says Essa-branded products will only include the rear derailleur and crankset.The derailleur includes a simplified clutch-like system to aid chain retention.Shimano says the Essa range integrates with 8-speed Hyperglide systems, including existing cassettes and shifters.The Essa groupset uses a non-series 11-45-tooth cassette.Shimano Essa componentsThe Shimano Essa range comprises two new Essa products and Shimanos existing CS0-HG400-8 cassette.Shimano Essa RD-U2000 rear derailleurThe rear derailleur tucks under the chainstay to keep out of harm's way. - ShimanoThe Shimano RD-U2000 rear derailleur offers stable performance on trails.Shimano says it has optimised the derailleurs geometry and spring tension to reduce chain drop.The derailleur uses Shimanos Shadow RD design, which tucks the derailleur out of harm's way beneath the chainstay.The new Essa derailleur has a total capacity of 34 teeth or, in other words, the maximum difference between the smallest and largest cog and a maximum low sprocket of 45 teeth.Shimano Essa FC-UD2000-1 cranksetThe crankset is available with 32 or 40 teeth. - ShimanoThe Shimano Essa FC-U2000-1 crankset has two chain ring options: 32 teeth or 40 teeth.Its narrow-wide tooth profile improves chain retention, according to Shimano.The 32-tooth chainring comes with Dynamic Chain Engagement tooth profiling, used on Shimanos XC, trail and enduro riding products.Shimano CS-HG400-8 cassetteThe cassette uses Shimano's HyperGlide technology. - ShimanoThe Shimano CS-HG400-8 cassette predates Essa, but this new version increases its range from 11-40t to 11-45t.The wide-ranging cassette has the following sprockets: 11, 13, 15, 18, 22, 27, 35 and 45.The 8-speed cassette uses Shimano's HyperGlide technology.Shorter reach for Shimano CuesThe upper lever is 10mm closer to the rider. - ShimanoAlongside the announcement of Essa, Shimano has revealed an update to Cues, which replaced the brands 9/10/11-speed lower-tier components.Cues has a new range of shifters and brake levers designed for riders with smaller hands.The reach of the brake lever has also been reduced. - ShimanoCues was already designed to provide drivetrain solutions across cycling categories, including touring and mountain biking, but Shimano says the update helps provide specific solutions for every type of bicycle.The two Shimano Cues shifter levers are said to be 12mm (lower lever) and 10mm (upper lever) closer to the rider than before, reducing thumb travel.The Shimano Cues brake lever is 20 per cent closer to the handlebar.Hub refreshShimano has simplified its non-series hub line-up, too. - ShimanoShimano has completely renewed its non-series front and rear hubs across its range.Shimano says its non-series hubs will be concentrated around a simple and easily understood line-up.The TC600 and TC/QC500 hub series will include labyrinth and contact seal bearings to endure the high torque levels of aggressive trail riding.The QCC400 series will have contact seal bearings only. The QC300 will retain cup and cone bearings.The FH600 and FH500 freehubs with Microspline, designed for electric bikes, will be compatible with 11-speed LinkGlide cassettes and HyperGlide+ 12-speed cassettes.

Team DSM-Firmenich PostNL had a sensational 2024 Tour of Turkey, winning five stages and securing the general classification. The man who took the overall victory... 23-year-old Dutchman, Frank van den Broek.This week has been a dream," admits the stage 6 winner in conversation with his team's offi...

Top up your fluids on the go with these top rated water bottles.Birzman BottleCleatStaying hydrated is an essential element of mountain biking given the level of exertion involved, and this only gets more Continue reading

The Cycle to Work Scheme is a great way for cyclists working in the UK to save at least 32 per cent on the cost of a bike and cycling equipment.Its been used by more than 1.6 million commuters working for 40,000 different employers since it was introduced by the government in 1999 to promote healthier journeys to work and reduce environmental pollution.In this guide, well look at how the scheme works and whether youre eligible to buy a bike tax-free to cycle to work.What is the Cycle to Work scheme?The Cycle to Work Scheme is worth considering before buying a new bike. - Steve Sayers / Our MediaThe Cycle to Work Scheme is an employee benefit scheme set up by the government in 1999 that enables employers to hire bikes and safety equipment to employees through salary sacrifice.The aim of the scheme is to get more people to commute to work by bike, promoting exercise while reducing pollution.How does the Cycle to Work scheme work?The Cycle to Work scheme essentially lets you get your hands on any bike you like. - Russell Burton / Immediate MediaIn theory, your employer buys a bike for you to ride to work on while you effectively hire it through salary sacrifice, allowing you to save money by not paying tax and National Insurance contributions on the monthly fee much like a company car.At the end of the hire period, you will usually be able to buy the bike from your employer for a nominal fee.In other words, the salary sacrifice is made from your gross salary, not your net salary.At the beginning of the scheme, you will be given a voucher or a Letter of Collection number that you can redeem at your local bike shop or enter online.Employers can gain from their staff enrolling in the Cycle to Work scheme. - Dave Caudery / Our MediaBecause the scheme was set up with the intention of getting more people cycling to work, rather than leisure riding, your employer remains the owner of the bike once you finish the hire period.While its common knowledge that in practice the employee is buying the bike, that isnt legally the case until the salary sacrifice ends and the employer sells the now heavily depreciated equipment to the employee.There is also a benefit to the employer, because they will make savings on National Insurance contributions for each employee who enters into the scheme.Is there a price limit for the Cycle to Work Scheme?Most schemes are not limited, enabling you to buy virtually any bike. - Russell Burton / Our MediaWhen the Cycle to Work Scheme first started, there was a price limit of 1,000 because many of the providers were not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).These days, most providers are FCA-regulated, meaning the limit is at your employer's discretion, with many opting to have no limit in place.Some employers may still have a set limit of 1,000, 2,000 or 5,000, including safety equipment because this reduces administrative costs.Do I own the bike at the end of the Cycle to Work scheme?There are a few options on what's next after finishing your agreement. - Steve Sayers / Our MediaBecause you have technically hired the bike from the scheme for the length of your agreement, you are left with a few options at the end of it:Enter into a new agreement, paying a small deposit to rehire the bikeBuy the bike from the schemeGive the bike backUnder HMRC rules, when buying the bike back at the end of the term you need to make a one-off payment to the scheme provider.This will depend on the initial value of the bike and how long youve been using it.Heres a table of the minimum value HMRC places on a used bike of different ages: Age of bikeIf original price is less than 500If original price is over 500 1 year18%25% 4 years3%7% 6 years or more0%0% Providers wont usually extend the agreement beyond a specified term. Even if you keep the bike until its worth zero, youll probably have to make a nominal payment to the provider to assume ownership.How does the Cycle to Work scheme work if you leave your job?Rebecca Leach / Our MediaIf you leave your employer while the initial Cycle to Work salary sacrifice agreement is still in force, youll need to pay off the balance and usually the depreciated value of the bike too, if you want to keep it. You have the option to give it back to your ex-employer too.Depending on your scheme provider, you may be able to transfer your agreement to your new place of work.What are the rules of the Cycle to Work scheme?Dave Smith / SpecializedWhile its unlikely youll have HMRC stalking your Strava in search of your daily commute, the government states that 50 per cent of a bike's use must be made up of qualifying journeys, such as commuting to work.How this is enforced remains unclear, but there is no scrutiny over the type of bike you buy. This means you could, for example, choose one of the best enduro bikes to ride to work and use it every weekend. The Cycle to Work scheme does restrict which accessories you can buy. Bike computers and power meters are not covered, for example. But commuting essentials, including lights and mudguards, are. Cycle to Work scheme for the self-employedBeing self-employed makes accessing the scheme more difficult. - Steve Sayers / Our MediaTo take part in the Cycle to Work scheme you need to receive a salary through the Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) system.The scheme allows you to sign up as an employer and an employee, meaning directors of single-person limited businesses can join the scheme.Your PAYE salary needs to be above the National Minimum Wage after the salary sacrifice for the bike has been taken out to qualify for the Cycle to Work scheme.You cannot participate in the Cycle to Work scheme if you are a sole trader because you will be paying tax and National Insurance once a year through a Self Assessment tax return.You can however claim the tax back on any bike bought for work purposes.Can I buy an electric bike on the Cycle to Work scheme?As there is no scrutiny on what bike you choose, you could decide to hire an electric bike for the duration of your agreement to help you up the hill to the office or shuttle you to the top of the trail at the weekend.How much money does the Cycle to Work scheme save?You could save up to 47 per cent. - Russell Burton / Immediate MediaThe amount you save will depend on your tax bracket, and the value of the bike and kit you buy.Because your monthly payments for the bike will reduce your gross salary, youll save the tax and National Insurance contributions youd pay on that part of your pay packet over the term of the Cycle to Work agreement.If you are a basic rate tax-payer, that amount will be 32 per cent of the purchase price, broken down as 20 per cent from the tax savings and 12 per cent from National Insurance.For a higher-rate tax-payer that increases to 42 per cent, with 40 per cent from tax and 2 per cent from National Insurance.Youll see a saving of 47 per cent if you pay the additional tax rate that kicks in after 150,000.If youre a top-rate tax-payer in Scotland then you can see savings of 49 per cent.Cycle to Work scheme calculatorSavings depend on your salary, and the price of the bike and extras you choose. - Lucy Rowe / Our MediaHeres a table of typical savings for a bike purchase on a Cycle to Work scheme: Salary25,000 60,000 Cost price of bike plus accessories1,000 1,000 Rate of tax plus NICs32%42% Net cost of bike plus accessories680 580 Saving on cost of bike plus accessories320 420 Net salary deduction over 12 months56.67 48.33 If you have the price of the bike youre looking for and know your gross salary, then online calculators such as that on the Green Commute Initiatives website will work out the indicative numbers.Reducing your gross salary might impact other benefits, such as statutory sick pay and the size of your pension pot, so make sure to check these out before committing to the agreement.You cant take on payments that reduce your salary below the minimum wage, plus you should consider insuring your bike because if it is stolen you will still be liable for the payments.Is the Cycle to Work scheme worth it?The value of the Cycle to Work scheme is dependent on your personal situation. - Russell Burton / Immediate MediaIf youre in the market for a new bike, buying it through the Cycle to Work scheme can be a good way to save money through cycling and spread the cost of the purchase over the duration of the agreement.Depending on your personal circumstances, and how generous your employer is with the price limit, the Cycle to Work scheme can offer some serious savings on new bikes.What are the benefits of the Cycle to Work scheme?There are many benefits associated with the scheme. - James Maloney/SWPix.comApart from the obvious cost savings associated with the scheme, the ability to pay for the bike over a period of time shouldnt be overlooked because it enables you to effectively take out an interest-free loan on the purchase of the bike.While the scheme is aimed towards commuting, there is no control over what bike you can hire, meaning you have a full range of options including hybrid bikes, road bikes and mountain bikes.There is also the benefit of knowing youre effectively spending tax-payer money on recording faster segment times on your new road bike or shredding the good stuff on your new mountain bike.What Cycle to Work schemes are available?The Cycle to Work scheme is almost always accessed via a third-party provider. - Steve Sayers / Our Media CycleschemeGCICycle2Work Bike2WorkCycle Solutions Where can it be used?Accepted in over 2,600 partnered shops with exclusive rights to CanyonAccepted in over 1,300 partnered shopsAccepted in Halfords and Tredz, but can be redeemed on behalf of Halfords by some bike shopsAccepted in over 2,200 partnered shopsAccepted in 1,250 shops and the scheme's online store Hire periodUp to 36 monthsUp to 60 monthsUp to 18 months12 monthsUp to 18 months Purchase optionOwn it after 4 years by paying a 3 or 7 percent deposit at the start of agreement, or buy after 12 months at HMRC's 18 to 25 per cent Fair Market Value pricePay a nominal 1 fee at the end of extended hire, or buy after 12 months at HMRC's 18 to 25 per cent Fair Market Value priceExtend hire period and own the bike after 4 years, or buy after 12 months at HMRC's 18 to 25 per cent Fair Market Value priceOwn it after 4 years by paying a 3 or 7 percent deposit at the start of agreement, or buy after 12 months at HMRC's 18 to 25 per cent Fair Market Value priceExtend hire period and own bike after 5 years, or buy at the end of scheme at HMRC's 18 to 25 per cent Fair Market Value price The Cycle to Work scheme is catered for by many different providers, with some employers signed up to specific schemes, limiting which ones are available to you.Small employers will usually allow you to pick the scheme you want to use, which can be helpful because some bike shops may have preferences on providers.CycleschemeCyclescheme is one of the largest providers, claiming to have more than 1 million customers and over 2,600 partnered bike shops across the UK.Cyclescheme also has exclusive access to big bike brands such as Canyon, Saracen and Planet X.Green Commute InitiativeThe Green Commute Initiative is a social enterprise that is focused on getting more people out of cars and onto bikes.The company is FCA-regulated and enables its users to take up to 10,000 worth of salary sacrifice, opening up a large range of bikes.It also offers varying periods for repayment and doesnt charge end-of-term fees to own the bike, only a nominal 1 marker that acts as proof of ownership.Cycle2WorkCycle2Work is Halfords' Cycle to Work scheme, and can be redeemed in its stores and online.The scheme is also partnered with Tredz, enabling you to redeem your Letter of Collection on its website.Cycle2Work isnt available in every bike shop, but many independents can redeem the voucher on Halfords' behalf. This does limit where you can buy your bike from, though.Bike2WorkBike2Work is another large provider that is partnered with more than 2,200 shops throughout the country. Many online stores, such as Tredz, also accept its vouchers. Cycle Solutions Cycle Solutions is a medium-sized Cycle to Work Scheme provider. It claims to offer a choice of 400 brands (including Giant, Specialized and Cannondale) from more than 1,250 independent and chain bike shops. Large employers, such as the Co-op and NHS England, are signed up to Cycle Solutions' scheme. It also has its own online bike shop dedicated to the bikes and accessories available through its scheme. Where can I buy a bike on Cycle to Work?Most local bike shops will be able to redeem Cycle to Work Scheme vouchers. - GettyYou can buy pretty much any bike you like via the Cycle to Work Scheme, as long as its not a children's bike.Where you buy your Cycle to Work bike is somewhat governed by your provider. However, many independent bike shops will be signed up to various providers, making it easier for you to find the exact model you're looking for.You can also redeem your Cycle to Work voucher online at major retailers including Sigma Sports. Cycle to Work scheme alternativesThe Cycle to Work scheme isn't the only way to save on commuting kit. - Steve Sayers / Our MediaThere are other alternatives to the Cycle to Work scheme that may be just as lucrative.Choosing to buy a bike on finance will enable you to spread the cost of the bike in a similar manner to the Cycle to Work scheme.It may even offer a more favourable contract because you can own the bike outright after 12 months rather than having to pay HMRCs Fair Market Value price to own the bike or wait four years for the bike to be fully depreciated.However, buying a bike on finance may mean you have to pay interest and any other fees.What are the problems of the Cycle to Work scheme?The Cycle to Work scheme can affect your pension pot and other finances. - Mike Kemp/In Pictures via Getty ImagesWhile the scheme provides good savings, you may be missing out on equal or better deals buying from bike shops and online retailers.Many shops will only sell bikes at the recommended retail price due to fees associated with Cycle to Work vouchers.If your employer sets a price limit for the voucher, you're somewhat limited in your bike choice and your savings.Under most Cycle to Work schemes, you have to spend the value of the voucher in one go. This stops you from adding commuting accessories to your bike after buying it. Most schemes prevent you from buying a bike and adding accessories at a later date. - Cycling Plus / Robert Smith PhotographyHowever, Gogeta, a new cycle scheme provider, is more flexible. Its voucher acts more like a gift card. You can make multiple purchases during the 12-month scheme until the balance runs out.Another difference from the main providers is you can use a Gogeta voucher at different retailers. When using the Cycle to Work scheme, it can be easy to overburden yourself. So make sure you only hire a bike you can afford because you will be liable for the payments for the duration of the arrangement.If you decide to leave your company, youll have to pay off the entire balance of the bike before leaving, and also the depreciated value of the bike if you want to keep it. And as previously mentioned, self-employed people and those on the minimum wage are not eligible for the scheme. These are things the Cycle to Work Alliance (a group of scheme providers) and the Association of Cycle Traders, which represents 4,000 UK cycling retailers, are campaigning to change.

Carlos Rodriguez has held on to secure overall victory at the 2024 Toru de Romandie after a chaotic final stage that saw Dorian Godon sprint to his second stage win of the race.Four riders got themselves into the day's breakaway and it was a strong group too. Remi Cavagna of Movistar Team, Darren R...