As debate around Paul Seixas potential Tour de France debut continues to build, former Giro dItalia stage winner David McKenzie and compatriot Grace Brown have offered one of the most hard-edged perspectives yet, suggesting Decathlon may need to act now rather than think long-term. The 51-year-old...

GRVL unveils ADVNTR Hydration Pack for gravel riders who want performance and lower-impact materialsGRVL has launched the new ADVNTR Hydration Pack, a gravel-focused pack built to balance on-bike stability, adaptable storage and more responsible material choices. The product was announced on 27 April 2026 and is aimed at riders looking for a practical solution for everything from fast racing efforts to longer off-road adventures.At the heart of the new pack is a modular concept. GRVL says the ADVNTR Hydration Pack can be switched between a stripped-back race setup and a larger capacity option for bigger days out, thanks to a removable cargo system. The idea is straightforward but appealing: let riders scale storage up or down without losing comfort or control on rough terrain.Hydration comes via a 2L bladder, while the fit is managed by a 4-point adjustable harness with elasticated sections. GRVL says this close-to-body design is intended to reduce the bounce often associated with more traditional cycling backpacks, something gravel riders will appreciate when the route turns loose, rutted or rocky.Material choice is a major part of the story here. The pack uses X-PAC waterproof nylon sailcloth, which GRVL says delivers high strength with tear resistance of more than 12lbs. That is paired with recycled polyester X-PLY ripstop and a recycled polyester lining, underlining the brands push to combine technical performance with a lower environmental impact.In practical terms, GRVL has included the features most riders will expect from a modern adventure pack. There is reflective detailing to help boost visibility, a large zipped compartment for carrying essentials, and a quick-release click-off cargo system designed to make loading and unloading simpler. Taken together, those details suggest a product aimed not only at event day use, but also at long training rides, bikepacking overnighters and mixed-terrain exploration.The launch also fits neatly with GRVLs wider brand message. The company says it was founded on the principle of creating high-performance cycling products with reduced environmental impact, drawing on decades of experience in technical sportswear development and working with leading mills and manufacturers to produce durable kit for demanding conditions. In that context, the ADVNTR Hydration Pack looks like a logical next step rather than a one-off addition.For gravel cyclists, the appeal will likely come down to versatility. Riders often face a trade-off between carrying enough kit for a full day out and keeping weight secure when the pace rises. GRVL is clearly pitching the ADVNTR Hydration Pack as a way to bridge that gap, offering the flexibility of extra cargo space when needed, without the bulk of a larger pack when it is not.The ADVNTR Hydration Pack is available through GRVL now, with the brand positioning it as a performance-led option for riders who do not want to compromise on sustainability.

Tre Cima Coppi 2027 Opens for Bookings with a Four-Day Alpine Cycling ExperienceBookings are now open for Tre Cima Coppi 2027, a brand-new premium cycling event set to take place from 22 to 26 July 2027 in the heart of the Italian Alps.Designed as an exclusive annual experience, the inaugural edition is strictly limited to just 100 riders, giving keen cyclists the rare chance to enjoy a beautifully organised multi-day event in an intimate, high-quality setting. For riders who dream of taking on legendary mountain roads while enjoying the comfort and support of a professional set-up, this promises to be one of the standout cycling experiences of the summer.Tre Cima Coppi 2027 is built around four unforgettable days, including three challenging road events that have been carefully crafted to showcase the very best of alpine riding. Each route offers its own distinct character, with a mix of iconic climbs, sweeping descents, quiet mountain roads and spectacular views across Italy and into neighbouring Switzerland.This is not simply a cycling holiday. It is an immersive experience for riders who want to test themselves on exceptional terrain, improve their endurance and handling, and enjoy the sense of achievement that only big mountain days can deliver. Whether you are targeting a personal challenge, chasing the feel of a pro-style event, or simply looking to ride some of Europes most breathtaking roads, Tre Cima Coppi 2027 aims to deliver all of it.A major part of the events appeal is its simplicity. All three rides begin and end at the same base hotel in Bormio, meaning there is no need for daily transfers, hotel changes or repeated packing and unpacking. Riders can settle in, focus on recovery, and enjoy a proper cycling hub atmosphere throughout the trip.That base is the Palace Hotel, a welcoming four-star, family-run hotel located just a two-minute walk from Bormios historic town centre. It is a venue with an excellent reputation among cyclists, having been used by European Cycle Events for more than a decade across over 25 cycling trips. That long-standing partnership speaks volumes about the quality of the service and the understanding of what riders need during a demanding mountain event.The hotel is particularly well set up for cyclists. There is a secure dedicated bike room in the basement, offering peace of mind for valuable equipment, while the hotels wellness centre and swimming pool provide the ideal space to relax and recover after long days in the saddle.Accommodation is offered on a half-board basis, and food is clearly a major part of the experience. Evening meals begin with an appetiser before a refined three-course dinner, served at the table rather than as a buffet. Guests can expect generous portions, high-quality ingredients and authentic Italian flavours, all tailored to the needs of endurance riders. Breakfast is equally well considered, with a strong continental spread alongside British-style options to help riders fuel properly before heading into the mountains.Taken together, it is a compelling package. Tre Cima Coppi 2027 combines world-class riding, stunning scenery, rider-friendly logistics and a comfortable, trusted hotel base in one of Europes great cycling destinations. With numbers capped at just 100 participants, the event is set to offer a premium and highly personal feel from the very first edition.For anyone tempted by the idea of riding legendary alpine roads in a relaxed but professional environment, early booking is strongly recommended. Places are limited, and early bird pricing is currently available for those who sign up soon.Book your placeBe part of the first chapter of Tre Cima Coppi 2027 and secure your place today.Book now: https://www.europeancycleevents.com/tour/2027-tre-cima-coppi/

The 2026 Tour de Romandie will take place from the 28th of April to the 3rd of May and will make for Tadej Pogacar's debut in a stage-race this year. The Swiss race provides the final big test ahead of the Giro d'Italia whilst also following the spring classics, a period where many are looking to sa...

Fantic launches Sierra and Ridge for 2026, with Bosch Gen5 power and two clear takes on e-MTB performanceFantic has unveiled two all-new e-MTB platforms for 2026, the carbon-framed Sierra and the aluminium Ridge, both built around Boschs latest Performance Line CX Gen5 motor and designed to cover everything from technical trail riding to full-gas all-mountain use.Fantic says the new Sierra and Ridge platforms mark a fresh chapter for its e-MTB range, with each bike aimed at a different kind of rider while sharing the same underlying goal of pushing off-road performance and ride feel forward. Sierra is the lighter, more progressive carbon option, while Ridge is pitched as the tougher, more accessible aluminium platform. Both are built around the Bosch Performance Line CX Gen5 drive unit, which Fantic says can be configured to deliver up to 120Nm of torque.On paper, Sierra looks to be the more trail-focused and premium of the two. It uses a full-carbon frame and comes with 160mm of front travel and 155mm at the rear, with geometry aimed at riders who want precision and control on demanding terrain. A key part of the design is Fantics so-called Cobra Design frame architecture, which the brand says boosts stiffness in critical areas for improved stability and accuracy when the trail gets rough.There is plenty of adjustment built into the Sierra too. Fantic has fitted a Flip Chip system that allows riders to swap from a 29in rear wheel to a 27.5in setup without upsetting the bikes balance, making a mullet configuration possible for riders chasing extra manoeuvrability and traction on technical sections. The rear end also uses a coaxial Horst link, a layout Fantic says helps separate braking forces from suspension movement so the shock can stay active under braking, with the aim of improving grip and composure.Power comes from Boschs latest Performance Line CX Gen5 motor, paired with an 800Wh battery across the range. Fantic also says Sierra can be fitted with a 250Wh range extender for longer days in the hills, which should make it particularly appealing for riders who want full-power assistance without constantly thinking about battery management.The Sierra line-up is split into Sport, Race and Factory builds, with prices starting at 5,790 for the Sport, rising to 7,490 for the Race and 8,990 for the Factory. According to Fantics sales guide, all three use the same full-carbon chassis and Bosch 800Wh setup, with claimed weights of 23.5kg for the Sport, 22.7kg for the Race and 22.3kg for the top-spec Factory. The Factory model is equipped with a RockShox Lyrik Ultimate fork, RockShox Deluxe Select+ shock, SRAM GX AXS transmission, Fantic Racing Carbon wheels and SRAM Maven Silver brakes. The Race gets RockShox Lyrik Select suspension, DT Swiss H1900 wheels and SRAM Maven brakes, while the Sport runs RockShox Psylo Silver RC and SRAM Eagle 70. Fantic says the Sport model launches with SRAM and will also be offered with Shimano from September.Colour options for Sierra are Arctic White and Volcanic Bronze, and while the numbers suggest this is still a full-power e-bike rather than some featherweight category challenger, the spec sheet points to a bike aimed squarely at riders who want modern geometry, serious suspension and enough range to make the most of it.If Sierra is the sharper, higher-end option, Ridge is the more versatile and price-conscious half of the new range. Built around an aluminium frame, Ridge also uses Fantics Cobra Design and a variable-thickness down tube with reinforcement around the head tube to increase torsional stiffness. Fantic says the seat tube has been redesigned too, with the goal of improving freedom of movement and comfort on descents.Ridge comes in two versions. The Trail model offers 150mm of travel front and rear, while the All Mountain version steps up to 170mm front and rear for riders spending more time on bigger, rougher tracks. Both use the same Bosch Performance Line CX Gen5 motor and 800Wh PowerTube battery, and both are available in Sport and Race trims.In Trail guise, the Ridge Sport costs 4,490 and the Ridge Trail Race comes in at 5,990. Claimed weights are 27.2kg for the Sport and 26.52kg for the Race. The Trail Race is fitted with a Suntour Auron 34 fork, RockShox Deluxe Select+ shock, SRAM Eagle 90 drivetrain, DT Swiss H1900 wheels and SRAM Guide T brakes. The Trail Sport gets RockShox Psylo Silver RC suspension, SRAM Eagle 70, Fantic Racing aluminium wheels and SRAM DB4 brakes. Both are available in Storm Grey and Desert Gold.At the bigger-hitting end of the Ridge family, the All Mountain Sport is priced at 5,490 and the All Mountain Race at 7,190. Claimed weights are 27.24kg and 27.23kg respectively. The Race build gets a RockShox ZEB Select 38 fork, RockShox Super Deluxe shock, SRAM GX AXS drivetrain, Mavic E-Deemax wheels and SRAM Code R brakes. The Sport uses a RockShox ZEB 38 fork, RockShox Deluxe Select+ shock, SRAM Eagle 70 transmission and SRAM DB6 brakes.Taken as a whole, Fantics 2026 e-MTB strategy looks straightforward and well defined. Sierra is the lighter, more technical carbon platform for riders who want adjustability and a more premium package. Ridge is the aluminium workhorse, offered in both Trail and All Mountain forms and with pricing that starts lower without abandoning full-power Bosch assistance or a big battery.There is also a clear emphasis on giving riders a spread of price points without muddying the range. Across both platforms, Fantic has concentrated on SRAM-equipped builds, from Eagle 70 on entry-level models through to GX AXS on the top-tier bikes, while keeping the Bosch 800Wh battery standard throughout. The brand also says both Sierra and Ridge will be available through a Click & Collect programme that lets customers browse online and complete the purchase through Fantics dealer network.From a cycling website point of view, the big takeaway is not just that Fantic has added new bikes, but that it has sharpened the identity of its e-MTB line-up. A carbon trail platform with mullet compatibility and a more affordable aluminium range covering both 150mm Trail and 170mm All Mountain use makes for a much easier story for riders to understand. Add Bosch Gen5 power, up to 120Nm of torque and an 800Wh battery across the board, and the MY26 range lands with plenty of substance behind the launch headlines.

Tadej Pogacar delivered another commanding performance at the Tour de Romandie, claiming his third stage victory with a decisive solo move on the final ascent to Jaunpass. The Slovenian world champion once again underlined his dominance in the mountains, tightening his grip on the general classific...

With his iconic victory at Paris-Roubaix, Wout van Aert's season is already a resounding success. Following his triumph at the Vlodrome, the Team Visma | Lease a Bike leader has opted for a well-deserved break, spending recent days tackling a multi-day bikepacking trip with friends through the Neth...

After directional bicycle lights were allowed by law last year, one of the first installed in Ireland is now in place on OConnell Bridge in Dublin. The lights, as installed, replace the standard bicycle logo on cycle traffic lights and include a smaller version of the logo, with the direction of travel indicated by an arrow. As this website reported last year, the latest change comes as part of a raft of legal changes to back new cycling infrastructure, and, as reported in 2020, the changes had been in the works since 2016. Other counties use a variety of approaches, including the one now taken in Ireland, and the main alternative: mini-road-sign arrows above or below the bicycle traffic light signals. The above photos thanks to a reader who sent them in show the traffic lights that have been added to part of the end of the Liffey Cycle Route path from the Docklands to thesouth-east corner of OConnell Bridge. Its unclear whether others have been installed elsewhere, but the retrofitted logos on the traffic lights pictured are in one of the countrys most high-profile locations.IMAGE: An older setup with a directional lane facing a green light just for straight-ahead travel. The directional signals are important for clarity and safety, and without them, there have been some confusing and potentially dangerous situations, for example, where a green light only shows straight ahead movements when there is a left turn for people cycling.Not having directional signals has also meant that in some situations, traffic light poles for cycle paths have had to be placed in different locations depending on direction, adding to clutter, cost, and complexity.While it seems relatively straightforward, directional bicycle lights were not provided for in national legislation until now.All mandatory traffic signs, signals, and markings must be included in law. This is usually done through secondary legislation published by the Minister for Transport, without the full parliamentary approval that accompanies primary legislation.The legal changes are supported by amendments to the signals section of the current edition of the Traffic Signs Manual, which outlines how and where signals can be used.IMAGES: The new traffic light symbols at the southeast corner of OConnell Bridge (Photos: Thanks to a reader).

Dutch National Champion Danny van Poppel will not line up for the 2026 Giro d'Italia next week. Despite a winter agreement with Red Bull - BORA - hansgrohe that he would target his own sprint opportunities in Italy, a severely underwhelming spring campaign has prompted the German squad to leave him...

Belgian climber Mauri Vansevenant will continue his career with Lotto-Intermarch. After it became clear there was no longer room for him at Soudal - Quick-Step, the 26-year-old didn't have to wait long to secure a new contract with the rival Belgian WorldTeam for the upcoming winter. The move marks...