David Gaudu is supposed to be one of the leading figures at Groupama - FDJ United. But, baring few glimpses, the 29-year-old Frenchman has been largely underwhelming in his races and hasn't scored a single UCI point for three months now. As the team has lost its patience, thorough medical examinatio...

The recent stories about new BMX-focused bikes and Olympic-level BMX frames are a sign that BMX is doing well. Then its no surprise that Portland, Oregons Chris King Precision Components would drop some new redesigned, lightweight, race-focused BMX Disc hubs today.These new hubs will be on display at the 2016 MADE Show, so expect us to get up close to em while were there. (Photos / Chris King)We last made BMX hubs in 2018, said King president and General Manager Kirby Bedsaul, and not a day has passed since then without riders asking us to make them again, so were happy, finally, to be able to get those riders going on something new, an improvement on the old design, and a hubset we think will win a lot of races for those riders who have been patiently waiting for this day. Chris King BMX Race HubsThe new hubs are built for the racer. The front hub is designed for 20mm axles with no rotor mount, while the rear features a 6-bolt rotor mount and comes in both 15mm thru-axle and M10 bolt-on options. The rear hub ships standard with Kings 72T RingDrive for fast engagement. But its also compatible with the 36T RingDrive, if youd rather trade some engagement speed for lower drag. Both versions of the hubs use the RingDrive with an internal needle bearing. This is what Chris Kings BMX hubs were always known for.Wait, what do they weigh, you ask? Chris King states that the rear hub weighs in at 297g, about 50g lighter than its predecessor. And the front is weighing in at only 170g. Bolt on axles include steel bolts, but custom Ti bolts are available for an optional upgrade. A one-piece hardened stainless steel axle maintains thehubs stiffness. The flange diameter and angles are updated to suit 20 rims. Both hubs are available in 36-hole and in all of Chris Kings color options.BMX Race Hubs RetailPricing lands at $310 for the front hub and $580 for the rear. Riders who want to shave additional grams can opt for titanium axle bolts at $35 per pair, finished to match the Robert Axle Project aesthetic.Check the link below for more details.ChrisKing.com

We come off a week featuring stage races like the Arctic Race, the Tour of the Czech Republic, and the downbeat Volta a Portugal, plus the WorldTour classic Bemer Cyclassics Hamburg, none of which altered the top 10 of the UCI WorldTour ranking on the eve of the Vuelta a Espaa and other key races s...

Continental has added a 32mm width to its Aero 111 aerodynamic front tyre range.The Aero 111 was previously available in only two widths: 26mm and 29mm. It was developed with Swiss Side and DT Swiss, and can be bought ready-fitted to some DT Swiss and Swiss Side performance wheelsets.It's specced in a 26mm width on some Canyon Aeroad bikes.Its a front-wheel specific tyre, with its vortex generator slotted tread pattern claimed to delay flow separation around the tyre and wheel, thus reducing aerodynamic drag and enhancing the sailing effect. Its typically paired with the Continental Grand Prix 5000 S TR rear tyre, which itself is now available in widths up to 35mm. The Aero 111's 48 vortex generators are claimed to delay flow separation at the front wheel. George Scott / Our Media When it launched the Aero 111 in July 2024, Continental claimed it was up to 18 watts faster than the Grand Prix 5000 S TR. It has seen action with a number of Tour de France squads who ride Continental tyres, although the GP 5000 TT TR has taken over as the preferred tyre both front and rear for many riders, including Tadej Pogaar, for its lower weight and rolling resistance.According to Hannah Ferle, road product manager at Continental Tyres: The Aero 111 has already proven the benefits of advanced airflow management but this additional width allows us to bring those same aerodynamic gains and crosswind-taming technologies to the modern road cyclist who refuses to compromise on comfort. Tadej Pogaar prefers the GP 5000 TT TR even on his road bike. Simon von Bromley / Our Media When it developed the Aero 111, Conti claimed the aerodynamics were significantly better than competitors at higher yaw angles and that the tyre improved handling due to reduced, more consistent force on the front wheel and tyre.With the ever-broadening tyre widths preferred by many non-pro riders and compatibility with many modern frames, it makes sense for Conti to offer a wider Aero 111, enabling riders to gain aerodynamically as well as in ride comfort.The 32mm tyre has the same 48 vortex generator slots as the narrower tyres and Continental says its as durable and fast, notwithstanding the greater frontal surface area. Continental claimed a significant sailing effect for the Aero 111 at higher yaw angles when it launched the tyre. Continental / DT Swiss / Swiss Side Continental isnt the only brand with an aero tyre option, with Pirelli claiming its P Zero Race TLR SL-R was the most aero available when it launched its new tyre earlier in 2026. Its currently only sold in 28mm and 30mm widths a 32mm is on its way later this year.Cadex, too, launched an aero tyre this February , the cunningly named Cadex Aero. It is also available in 28mm and 30mm widths, while Schwalbe has the front/rear-wheel specific Pro One Aero pairing, sold in 28mm width only. Continental launched a limited-edition tan sidewall Aero 111 for the Tour de France, but the 32mm tyre will be sold in black only. Continental While Conti recently launched a Tour de France limited-edition tan sidewall version of the 29mm Aero 111, its sticking to black only with the new 32mm width. The tyre uses the same BlackChili compound and Vectran breaker layer as the brands Grand Prix 5000 performance tyres and, as with other widths, its tubeless-ready and compatible with hookless rims within the ETRTO guidelines.Conti quotes a 310g per tyre weight for the 32mm-width Aero 111 tyre, versus 280g for the 29mm and 250g for the 26mm tyre. The recommended retail price is 113.95 / $140.94 / 128.95. .

Its Tuesday, drops of water are finally falling from the sky (at least where I am), and Ryan Mallons back with a suitably cooler, damper iteration of your favourite cycling live blog

The transfer market continues to move and another signing has been made official this Tuesday morning. UAE Team Emirates - XRG are one of the key teams in the peloton and every rider that goes in or out is worked to the minor detail. The new has revealed its new rider: Marco Frigo. The move had pre...

Ten years after launching the original Expedition Series, British bikepacking specialist Apidura is promising far more than a simple facelift. Everything has been reworked, from the mounting system to the materials. The question is whether the new range is genuinely better than its predecessor, or simply different. We put it to the test to find out.Apidura Expedition Series | 1.296 g | 605 (tested set as pictured) | Manufacturers websiteWaterproof bikepacking bags with welded seams were far from the norm when Apidura launched the original Expedition Series in 2016. Since then, the construction method has become the industry standard, competitors have closed the gap, and the market has grown considerably more crowded. Now Apidura are hitting back with a completely redesigned Expedition Series, built around an overhauled mounting system and new materials.Apidura were founded in 2013 by Tori Fahey. Having raced long-distance events such as the Tour Divide herself, she struggled to find technical bikepacking bags that met her demands, so she started making her own. What began as a gap in the market has grown into a family-run company that still prioritises durable, long-lasting designs over seasonal product cycles.The Expedition Series has never been particularly light or affordable. Its reputation rests instead on keeping your kit dry, even after weeks of riding in the rain. If fast and light is your priority, Apiduras Aero System, which weve reviewed separately, is the better choice. For long, demanding adventures, though, the Expedition Series has been the benchmark for years, and thats the standard this latest generation has to live up to.Apidura have set out to address three key shortcomings of the previous generation: the Handlebar Packs less than secure mounting, the Saddle Packs tendency to sway when fully loaded, and the Frame Packs bulging under load. Whether these updates really make a difference in the real world can only be answered on the trail. So lets find out.In detail: what does the new Apidura Expedition Series promise?At first glance, the new Expedition Series looks cleaner than its predecessor: fewer visible buckles and straps, a more streamlined silhouette, and a unified design language across the entire range. Apidura are now promoting a completely rethought mounting concept without conventional straps, built around a three-layer material construction and fully welded seams for absolute waterproofing. The most obvious step forward is the integration of GPS and lighting mounts. Instead of clamping accessories to the handlebars as before, theyre now built directly into the system. Even the Saddle Pack now features a dedicated rear light mount.Apidura also claim to have tackled the two other long-standing weak points. To prevent saddle pack sway, a guiding channel works in combination with silicone grip strips to keep the bag securely aligned with the seatpost. A more rigid base shell is designed to lower the centre of gravity and improve stability. On the Frame Pack, internal guide rails running along the zip are meant to prevent bulging under load, which helps the bag retain its shape even when fully packed. Whether all of this translates into real-world performance is something only a proper field test can reveal.Apidura Expedition Series on reviewWe tested each bag individually over several rides in a wide range of conditions, both on and off road, including a multi-day bikepacking trip. The following models were included in our test:Bolt-On Top Tube Pack: 1 L, 100 g, 66Handlebar Pack: 9 L, 446 g, 184Front Cargo Mesh: 90 g, 38Frame Pack: 3,8 L, 245 g, 142Saddle Pack: 9 L, 415 g, 175Weighing just 100 g, the Bolt-On Top Tube Pack is available in a single 1 L size and bolts directly to the frames mounting points. If your bike doesnt have top tube bosses, theres also a strap-mounted version. Thanks to the bolt-on attachment, it stays absolutely rock solid with no movement at all, even on rough terrain. After several wet rides, it stayed completely waterproof, and the zip continued to operate smoothly. The 1 L capacity is enough for energy bars, gels, a multitool, and a smartphone.Cleanly mounted to the top tube: if your frame doesnt have mounting bosses, go for the strap version instead of the bolt-on model.No bag in this range has been redesigned as extensively as the Handlebar Pack. Its available in 9 L and 14 L versions, with our 9 L test sample weighing 446 g. The traditional strap attachment has been replaced by a new lace-up mounting system. It sounds like an elegant solution, but in practice it can be baffling at first. Without the video instructions, the setup is far from intuitive. A retaining strap holds the bag in place initially, but threading the cord through the eyelets is fiddly, and locking it into the toothed fastening mechanism takes some practice. Removing the bag is much the same. The cord has to be released again, which can test your patience after a long ride or with cold, tired fingers.The biggest update is here: instead of traditional straps, a lace-up system now secures the bag to your handlebars. The yellow cord holds it firmly in place, but threading it through the eyelets proved fiddly in our test.One particularly clever feature did stand out. A marker on the roll-top closure lets you see before fitting the bag how wide it is when packed, so you can check whether it will still clear your drop handlebars. The magnetic buckle closure works reliably, and even after hours of riding in heavy rain, everything inside stayed completely dry.A clever touch: the printed marker shows how wide the packed bag will be before you fit it, so you can see whether it will clear your drops.Theres one compromise, however. The lace-up mounting system sits close to the stem, forcing your cycling computer out of its usual position. Apiduras optional GPS Mount and Accessory Arm solve the problem by allowing both your computer and head light to be mounted directly to the bag. The Front Cargo Mesh costs 38 and is a practical accessory for the Handlebar Pack. Weighing just 90 g, it attaches directly to the front of the bag to provide extra storage for items you want to keep within easy reach, such as snacks or a waterproof jacket. Once detached from the Handlebar Pack, it can also be used as a musette, making it easy to carry your essentials when youre off the bike.Unlike the rest of the Expedition Series, however, the mesh pocket is not waterproof. Its also incompatible with the previous generation of the Expedition Series and works exclusively with the new Handlebar Pack.Whether you use it as a quick way to stash extra kit such as a rain jacket in the mesh pocket within easy reachor remove it and use it as a musette on the go, the mesh bag is a practical addition.Apidura have tackled one of the previous Frame Packs biggest weaknesses head-on. Guide rails running alongside the zip help the bag retain its shape even when fully loaded, preventing it from bulging outwards and rubbing against your legs. It attaches to the frame using silicone-backed straps that hold it securely in place without slipping. Like the rest of the Expedition Series, the Frame Pack is fully waterproof and, inside, is divided into two compartments: a slim pocket for items such as a wallet or ID card, and a larger main compartment with an integrated mesh pocket to keep smaller essentials organised.Our 3.8 L test bag weighs 245 g. If you need more storage, Apidura also offer the Full Frame Pack, which fills the entire front triangle and is available in sizes ranging from 4.6 L to 10 L.The 9 L Saddle Pack weighs 415 g. Mounting is straightforward and can be done without any instructions. The guiding channel, which pulls the bag closer to the seatpost, and the silicone grip strips do exactly what Apidura claim: in testing, the bag sways noticeably less than on the previous generation. Compression is also impressive, with the contents packing down very effectively.Mesh side pockets provide extra space for bottles and can be secured with an additional strap if needed. The roll-top closure also allows external attachment points, for example for a wet swimsuit after a swim stop. Compared to the previous model, the extra elastic cords for additional gear have been removed, which feels like a missed opportunity as there would still have been room for them. A particularly useful detail is the integrated rear light mount, which lets you attach a light directly to the bag without needing a separate bracket. However, the critical issue shows up in the waterproofing test. Through the internal openings that allow air to escape during compression, water can also find its way inside. As a result, the contents do not stay dry, which is a significant drawback for a series that otherwise places full waterproofing at the heart of its promise.We addressed this problem to Apidura directly, and they are currently investigating the issue with this specific bag. This is what they said:The SoftVent Air Valve has been part of our range for many years, and based on extensive internal testing as well as real-world experience, we have full confidence in its waterproof performance. Under normal riding conditions, we wouldnt expect any water to enter via the valve.However, the bag isnt designed to be airtight and, like other bikepacking bags on the market, it doesnt offer a completely sealed environment. Products like these are typically tested against water ingress standards such as IPX6/IP6K6.While a small amount of water might penetrate in rare cases if a targeted, high-pressure jet is aimed directly at the valve, the amount of water observed in this review is higher than we would usually expect or have previously seen.We take product quality very seriously and are actively working on a solution. Whether this issue is down to a flaw in the initial production batch cant be confirmed just yet.The guide channel and silicone grip strips keep the saddle pack stable against the seatpost. In our test, it swayed noticeably less than its predecessor, although water did seep in through the compression openings.As a complete set, the bags stand out above all for how well they work together. Visually, they create a clean, unified look on the bike, with none of the bags appearing like an afterthought bolted on later. More importantly, Apidura have refined the areas where the previous generation fell short. The new handlebar mounting system has finally put an end to the old wobble, the Saddle Pack sits more calmly against the seatpost, and the Frame Pack holds its shape right through to the last litre of capacity. At just under 1,300 g for the full set, this is not a particularly lightweight setup, but every single piece clearly reflects its long-distance ambitions.Who are the Apidura Expedition Series bags the right choice for?The Apidura Expedition Series is aimed at anyone looking for a complete, well-matched system for multi-day bikepacking trips or full-on expeditions. It makes particular sense for long-distance riders: if you prioritise stability over minimum weight and want a robust, modular setup that can be expanded with accessories like the Cargo Mesh or additional packs, this is very much in its element.If, on the other hand, youre counting every gram or simply dont plan on tackling extended expeditions, you may be better served by more minimalist solutions such as the CYCLITE NANO series, which weve reviewed separately. Theres also no getting around the price, which puts the system firmly in the premium segment. Add to that the somewhat fiddly installation of the Handlebar Pack, which demands patience, especially in cold conditions. And if absolute waterproofing is your top priority, the Saddle Packs weak point is something youll want to keep in mind.Helmet Fizik Kyros | Glasses Oakley Encoder Strike Vented | Jersey Ryzon Venture Gravel Shirt Shorts Gobik Revolution Bib Short | Shoes Sidi Dominator XConclusionApidura have noticeably refined the Expedition Series. The new strapless handlebar mounting system holds the bag rock solid, finally putting an end to the old wobble, even if fitting and removing it can still feel fiddly in cold conditions or with tired hands. The Saddle Pack also sits far more securely than before, yet it commits one error thats hard to overlook: of all places, its the bag meant to keep your sleeping bag dry in the rain that still lets water in. At this price point, that flaw feels avoidable, and it dents an otherwise strong overall impression.TopsNew strapless handlebar mounting system, clean in design and rock solid in useSaddle Pack sits securely and stays stable on rough terrainFrame Pack retains its shape even when fully loadedFlopsSaddle Pack is not fully waterproofHandlebar Pack mounting and removal remains fiddly in practiceFor more information, visit apidura.comDer Beitrag Apidura Expedition Series on Review: Does the Latest Generation Deliver on Its Promises? erschien zuerst auf GRAN FONDO Cycling Magazine.

Primo legwear for the spring and summer - light and comfortable but warmer than standard lycra

Primoz Roglic has been confirmed to be racing the 2026 Vuelta a Espaa. The Slovenian suffered a training crash in the lead up to the final Grand Tour of the season, but Red Bull - BORA - hansgrohe has now confirmed that the Slovenian will be fit to compete for a record-breaking fifth overall win at...

Movistar Team has finalized its line-up for La Vuelta a Espaa 2026. The Spanish squad has confirmed the eight riders set to tackle the seasons final Grand Tour, a race where they aim to finish the year on a stronger note after a difficult Tour de France and a Giro dItalia in which Enric Mas fell...