Thoughtfully designed, comfortable and with ample protection against the elements

Superb UK-made light combines high output, light weight and a long warranty

Taking place on the 20th of March, the Bredene Koksijde Classic is the third of three consercutive semi-classics that are highly prestigious, even if they are not part of the World Tour division. The sprinter's classic has had great quality in its short history, however it delivers exciting action e...

Vietnam is a country uniquely suited to adventurers, especially cyclists. We could fill a book with all the unforgettable aspects of riding here. Since 8 is a lucky number in Vietnam, why dont we start with our top 8?Coastal Climbs Vietnam is known mindblowing rollercoaster-like routes that reward physical challenges with spectacular views. On our tour Vietnam Gravel North: Hanoi to Hoi An, the most famous might be the Hai Van Pass (previously featured on Top Gear as one of the worlds top coast roads), a promontory that juts into the South China Sea between Hue and Da Nang, soaring above the crashing surf of the azure waters below. Meanwhile, on Vietnam Gravel South: Hoi An to Saigon, we experience the Ninh Thuan Coast Road, an arid coastal landscape with successive climbs above deserted coastlines and secluded bays.Culinary Cornucopias Refuel during and after the rides with the local specialties, which vary along the entire length of this long, S-shaped country. Think of your bike tour as one long culinary extravaganza, from the ph (hearty noodle soup) in the north, to the m Qung (rice vermicelli with shrimp and pork) of Hi An, to the banh xeo of central and south Vientam. Abundant seafood and Dont forget Vietnams amazing selection of craft beers, either! Tap rooms and breweries beckon throughout, as does boutique kombucha, infused with local herbs and fruit.A Tapestry of Cultures Vietnams deep valleys and river deltas are home to 54 ethnic groups. This stunning diversity of languages, agricultural techniques, clothing styles, foods, and spiritual beliefs makes for a rich and engaging journey. In the North, well encounter the Hmong, Thi, and Mng ethnic groups in their mountain villages, where they live in stilt houses and still tend to the land as their ancestors did. Further south, well see the elaborate Hindu temples of the Cham people, whose empire controlled much of this territory until several centuries ago. Their descendants still live in the region and worship in the same sacred spaces.A Twist Around Every Turn Vietnam is easily one of the worlds most stimulating countries in the which to cycle. One moment, youre navigating a prosperous village market; the next, you are are taking in idyllic views across sparkling rice fields. Cows, chickens, schoolchildren on bicycles everyone shares the road, making your ride at times a communal experience. After these moments of bustle, remote mountain roads bring us solitude and peace. The terrain itself is constantly changing, from broken asphalt to smooth tarmac to chunky gravel. Its the perfect place for a versatile gravel bike!Stunning Accommodations Weve chosen the best of Vietnamese hospitality, with resorts, hotels and guest houses that bring out the authentic flavour of the region while ensuring we get a good dinner and nights rest. Location-wise, the hotels flow seamlessly with the cycling routes weve plotted. Youll also be able to book spa appointments and unwind with some time poolside to keep those muscles fresh for each days ride!From the Urban to the Natural Our tours incorporate Vietnams capital, Hanoi; its southern metropolis, Saigon; and its booming, fastest-growing city, Da Nang, along with other renowned cities and towns along the way. However, the space between is filled with lush, thriving natural beauty. Along winding mountain roads, cycle through nature preserves that are home to rare species. In the south, journey inland to crashing waterfalls and hushed valley roads. The fauna and flora of this country will always steal the spotlight!A Cycling Culture You may have heard of the crazy traffic in Vietnam, but this perception is skewed towards the admittedly chaotic areas in the urban centres. The rural roads that we have chosen for our tours are as safe as any you might think of. Vietnamese drivers are keenly aware that they may come across bicycles, Vespas, and all manner of livestock, so they tend to drive slowly and carefully. Besides being used for recreation among younger Vietnamese, the bicycle is still an important means of transport for citizens of all ages to reach the local market, school, or workplace. In this shared road environment, we can cycle with peace of mind and enjoy the experience!Layered history and a dynamic present Vietnams history spans millenia, and in traveling from north to south, we trace the nations expansion from the early kingdoms around Hanoi. Along the way, well stop in Hue, which was the capital under the last imperial dynasty, the Nguyen; well see the palace and stately old town from which the emperors ruled. Of course, well also explore the history of the Vietnamese resistance against the French and the Americans, which was such a key part of the 20th century. The country rermains staunchly traditional, with Confucian values and family at the fore.However, Vietnam is also embracing the present and modernizing in a dazzling variety of ways. The economy is booming; fashion, the arts, architecture, and technology are evolving quickly along with this newfound prosperity. When you are here, you feel part of a vibrant and exciting country that is finding a new place in the world. This intricate balance between the ancient and the modern makes a cycling tour through Vietnam a revealing and endlessly fascinating adventure.What better way to capture all these contrasting and subtle sensations than by bicycle? Join us on Hanoi to Hoi An by Gravel Bike, Hoi An to Saigon by Gravel Bike, or combine them into a grand Vietnamese journey!The post Top 8 Reasons to Cycle in Vietnam appeared first on Eat Sleep Cycle.

What do you mean theres no bike racing on TV today? Anyway, Ryan Mallons here to help you deal with the withdrawal symptoms on the Monday live blog. Lets just hope he can keep a firmer grip on the cycling news than Englands approach to a rugby ball

The queen of all classics: Milano-Sanremo. The Italian race is the first of the five monuments of the cycling season and is the longest race on the professional road calendar. Every year it delivers a lot of action and is often termed the closest out of all monuments in the calendar. We take a look...

SIDI has been a major player in the cycling shoe market for decades. The Italian brand built its reputation on making top-quality, high-performance, and impressively durable shoes for both mountain and road cyclists. In the 80s and 90s, few, if any, cycling shoe brands came anywhere close to SIDI. Over the past decade or so, however, numerous other brands have not only caught up to but surpassed the once-dominant brand.But as weve seen recently, SIDI isnt taking it lying down and is making a comeback. Last year, SIDI introduced the new Physis off-road shoes, along with several other new models, including the Ergo 6 and Genius 10 Knit road shoes. These new models were a departure from SIDIs traditional norm, featuring a new Millennium fit, along with new materials and constructions not typically seen from the brand.Now, with the launch of several new models for spring/summer 2026, it seems that SIDI is carrying that momentum and continuing to evolve not only its products but also its brand identity. Along with four all-new models, the Shot 3, Genius x Wyve, Aeron, and Dominator X, SIDI is also introducing a new logo that modernizes the brands visual identity while staying true to the heritage and iconic strength on which it was built. Additionally, the brand is demonstrating a renewed commitment to the US market with the official launch of the US website at cycling.sidisport.us.The New SIDI Aeron off-road shoe, with the updated SIDI logo. SIDI Shoes: New for 2026For Spring/Summer 2026, SIDI recently launched four all-new models. This includes the road-oriented Shot 3 and Genius x Wyve, and the off-road-focused Aeron and Dominator X. All of the new shoes feature SIDIs Millenium Fit, a revised last with a slightly shorter, wider toe box that creates a slightly roomier fit intended to fit more riders and enhance comfort without sacrificing performance. Lets check them out.SIDI Shot 3: Power Designed to DisappearThe new Shot 3 road cycling shoes have the Millenium Fit last, which is visually obvious when viewed from above, seen here in Ivory. From SIDI: Designed for riders who demand uncompromising excellence, the Shot 3 ushers in a new era of innovation and performance, with a refreshed, modern aesthetic. The monocoque microfiber upper with internal net provides race-level stability and structure, while minimizing discomfort that could impact performance. At its core, the R1FC carbon sole and Nexus Bridge deliver low stack height, reduced weight, and efficient power transfer. The DUO-FIT Carbon Chassis integrates the sole and heel into one carbon platform, engineered for stiffness, stability, and precise power transfer. The compact aero aluminum NUUN dial closure, combined with the tool- free adjustable heel system, and Memory Fit insole, work in unison to create a highly customized, aerodynamic fit that adapts dynamically to the foot. SIDIs tool-free adjustable heel system.The new SIDI Shot 3 is available only in a mens/unisex version, in whole and half sizes 40 to 47, and 48 EU, in Black, Ivory, and White.SIDI Shot 3 Features and SpecsUpper: Monocoque microfiber with internal mesh breathable and supportiveClosure: Dual NUUN 001C aluminum dials precise and aerodynamicTongue: UNUM Ergo anatomical tongue reduces pressure on the instepHeel: Tool-free adjustable counter customizable and removableFootbed: Memory Fit with silicone grip secure comfort and power transferChassis: DUO-FIT carbon maximum stiffness and controlOutsole: R1FC carbon with Nexus Bridge stiffness index 12/12Cleat Setup: Independent adjustment for personalized positioningReplaceable Parts: Heel pads and dialsMSRP: $600SIDI Genius X Wyve: Engineered Support. Featherlight FeelThe Genius X Wyve features a Wyve upper with technical mesh and TPU reinforcements. Seen here in Frost Gray/Ice WhiteFrom SIDI: Built on the proven Genius X platform, the Genius X Wyve elevates performance through an all-new Wyve upper that blends technical mesh with targeted TPU reinforcements, delivering exceptional breathability, secure containment, and reduced weight all while achieving a clean, comfortable fit that stays fresh and responsive even on the longest, most intense rides. Dual NUUN dials and a High-Density Instep ensure a precise, personalized fit, while the R3CC carbon composite sole provides smooth, balanced power transfer across all ride types.Compared to the Shot 3 described above, the Genius x Wyve has a more approachable, easy-going 6 out of 12 stiffness with the R3CC carbon-composite sole. For men, the Genius X Wyve is available in whole and half sizes 40 to 47, and 48 EU, and Black, White, Frost Gray/Ice White, and White Fluo colorways. The womens version comes in Anthracite Gray in whole and half sizes from 38 to 43 EU.SIDI Genius X Wyve Features and SpecsUpper: Wyve-engineered mesh with TPU lightweight, breathable, and supportiveClosure: Dual NUUN 001C aluminum dials precise, fast, and aerodynamic tension controlInstep: Anatomical TPU High-Density Instep secure fit with reduced pressure pointsFit System: Integrated upper structure stable and supportive without added bulkOutsole: R3CC carbon composite stiffness index 6 for smooth power transfer and all-day comfortCleat Setup: Independent cleat adjustment for personalized alignmentReplaceable Parts: Heel pads and dialsMSRP: $380SIDI Aeron: Engineered for the Hardest LinesFrom SIDI: Engineered for gravel and cross-country riding, the Aeron delivers a precise, performance-driven fit that balances support, protection, and power in a single streamlined package. Designed with the demands of XC riders in mind, the lightweight upper is constructed from high-resistance Ripstop fabric with TPU bumpers and strategically placed rubber reinforcements in high-exposure zones, delivering exceptional abrasion and tear resistance without added weight. Dual NUUN 001C dials work in tandem with a fast-adapting instep insert and a UNUM tongue to dynamically conform to the foot, creating a secure, pressure-free, and highly personalized fit.The Aeron comes in a mens/unisex version only in Black, Ice White, and Jojoba colors, and sizes 40 to 48 EU.From left to right, the SIDI Aeron comes in Ice White, Black, and Jojoba.SIDI Aeron Features and SpecsMade for XC riders seeking lateral stability in a lightweight, ventilated structure that ensures consistent climate control.Ripstop upper with rubber bumper offers high tear resistance and protection in a lightweight, durable structure.Adjustable instep connects to NUUN dials, shaping to the foot with an internal system for easy, secure fit.Heel adjuster and Firmor X combine to stabilize the foot, providing a secure, unified fit through every pedal stroke.NUUN 001C is a compact, aero aluminum dial with SIDIs handle system for fast, precise tension and maximum hold.X2FC full carbon sole with stiffness level 11 out of 12, integrated toe lugs, and added rubber for impact support on landings.MSRP: $570SIDI Dominator X: Made for Miles Beyond the TrailThe Dominator X uses the Wyve fabric upper, and dual NUUN dials to adjust the tension around the foot.From SIDI: Rugged yet precise, the Dominator X is an off-road shoe engineered to deliver trail-ready comfort and race-level power across any terrain. The Wyve fabric upper balances breathability and structure, reinforced with protective bumpers for long-lasting resilience, while dual NUUN dials and SIDIs proven instep system ensure a secure, personalized fit from the first pedal stroke to the last. Beneath it all, the X3CC carbon composite sole with extreme bumpering delivers reliable grip, impact protection, and efficient power transfer.Compared to the uncompromising stiffness of the Aeron, the Dominator X is rated as an 8 out of 12 on SIDIs scale. The mens Dominator X is available in whole and half sizes from 40 to 48 EU, and in Black, Deep Forest, Ice White, and Sand color options. The womens version is available in whole and half sizes from 37 to 43 EU, and in Anthracite Ice White and Ice White/Sand colorways.The Dominator X comes in four color options, Anthracite Ice White, Deep Forest, Black, and White/Sand.SIDI Dominator X Features and SpecsUpper: WYVE engineered fabric with protective bumpers breathable, supportive, and durableClosure: Dual NUUN 001C aluminum dials compact, aerodynamic, and precise fit adjustmentInstep: Adjustable anatomical instep adapts to foot shape for secure, pressure-free fitFit System: Structured upper with internal reinforcement stability without added bulkOutsole: X3CC carbon composite stiffness index 8, with rubber zones for traction and impact protectionCleat Setup: Independent cleat positioning for custom alignmentReplaceable Parts: Heel pads and dialsMSRP: $370SIDI Dominator X: First RideAt 410g, the Dominator X isnt very competitive in the weight department. Thankfully theyre really comfortable. (photo/Jeremy Benson)Ive got a pair of the new SIDI Dominator X in for testing, and Ive got exactly one mixed surface ride of around 38 miles in them so far. At 410 grams per shoe (size 43.5), theyre far from the lightest XC/gravel shoes around, but the out-of-the-box comfort is impressive. The uppers are supple and accomodating, the footbed is supportive, and the NUUN dials provided a secure, precise, and comfortable fit throughout my first ride. The soles feel stiffer than their 8 out of 12 rating suggests, yet they dont feel overly stiff or harsh, either.My initial impression is that theyre a significant improvement in fit, comfort, and aesthetics compared to the last few pairs of SIDI shoes that Ive worn, and a step in the right direction for the brand. Im going to keep testing these shoes through the spring, and I hope to provide a more detailed review in a month or two.The Dominator X looks, feels, and fits quite a bit different than the Dominators I wore around 1999-2002-ish, and that seems like a good thing so far. (photos/Jeremy Benson)SIDI Shoes Spring/Summer 2026: AvailabilityAll of SIDIs latest cycling shoes are available now at your favorite SIDI dealer or through the SIDI website.And if youre in the US, the link below takes you to SIDIs new US website, which includes the full lineup of SIDI shoescycling.sidisport.usThe post SIDIs Comeback Continues With New Models for Spring/Summer 2026 appeared first on Bikerumor.