Igor Arrieta will open a new chapter in his professional career from 2027. The young climber from Navarra will leave UAE Team Emirates XRG on the transfer market and move to Lidl-Trek, the team with which he has signed a three-year contract running through the end of 2029. At 23, Arrieta has becom...

Why has the Magene C706 bike computer prompted me to lean over my bars for a closer look? Partly, because my social feeds are screaming with claims that its a Garmin Edge 1050 killer. So, I wanted to discover whether the hype around this bike computer is warranted. Is it good enough to break the grip the big three Garmin, Wahoo and Hammerhead have had on this market for years? Decades, in Garmins case.Of course, Bryton has been valiantly chipping away at the edges of the market since 2011, and more recently, Coros made a sterling effort to bring unheard of reserves of battery life courtesy of its Dura computer. However, were now seeing a slew of Chinese brands attempt to break into the best cycling computers market, most notably iGPSport and Magene. Both promise parity with the big three on build quality, software and UI, while their sponsorship of WorldTour teams Groupama-FDJ United and XDS-Astana this season demonstrates just how serious they are about carving out a slice of the market.Magene is aiming much higher with the C706, a sophisticated bike computer that rivals the big threes range-toppers. To wedge a foot in the door, some Chinese brands, such as Coospo and Geoid, offer sub-100/$100 units boasting predictably basic functionality. Magene is aiming much higher with the C706, a sophisticated bike computer that rivals the big threes range-toppers. Its price tag? Well, it isnt dirt cheap, but it is provocatively competitive.For example, bundle a Garmin Edge 1050 with a pair of Garmin Rally dual-sided power meter pedals arguably one of the most useful training accessories for a bike computer and youll be handing over a whopping 1,298/$1,899 for the privilege. Invest in a Magene C706 and a pair of Magene P715 dual-sided power meter pedals, and youll be spending about half that amount. Thats a huge saving.Magene isn't some fly-by-night operation, either. It has substantial OEM experience, producing electrical cycling products for brands such as Wahoo and Decathlon. So, its workforce knows how to screw tech together. Design detailsWhat's in the box? The C706 is bundled with some nifty extras, including a TPU bumper and a screen protector. No proper out front mount, though. (Image credit: Simon Fellows)In the hand, the C706 looks and feels just as premium as flagship bike computers from the mainstays. Somehow, its build manages to convey a sense of weighty ruggedness despite tipping the scales at a respectable 111 grams. The alloy mounting boss quietly suggests quality and longevity there are no cheap plastics to fail mid-ride here.The large 3.3in colour touchscreen is the main feature, a backlit TFT panel that compares favourably in size to the Edge 1050s 3.5in LCD display but is noticeably smaller than the Wahoo Elemnt Aces 3.8in transflective TFT behemoth. Unfortunately, Magene doesnt publish specs for brightness, colour or resolution, which is a bit tiresome.However, the C706 does impress with its thin bezel, allowing the generous 3.3in screen to be packed into a compact 55 x 97 x 14.8mm (2.2 x 3.9 x 0.6) case. By comparison, the Edge 1050 is noticeably larger at 60.2 x 118.5 x 16.3 mm (2.4 x 4.7 x 0.6). This makes the Magene a marginally more practical proposition on narrower bars and when space is tight on smaller third-party mounts.The unit is about the same thickness as Garmin's Edge 1050. Buttons - there are five in all - are a welcome inclusion. (Image credit: Simon Fellows)Its great to see that Magenes product design team has included five physical buttons, always a blessing when wearing winter gloves or when heavy rain makes every touchscreen Ive ever tried intermittently unresponsive. The buttons three on the left-hand side of the case and two on the lower edge, flanking the USB-C port are contextual, but they provide quick access to common riding functions such as power on and off, page changes, laps, recording controls and the electronic bell.Thats right, theres an electronic bell, which means that Magene has incorporated a proper speaker, rather than the shrill piezo buzzers commonly found on even flagship head units until a couple of years ago. Unconventionally, its housed in the alloy mounting boss more on that later. As well as the bell tone, spoken navigation prompts, climb notifications and a host of alerts can be voiced through the speaker.The Star Ring is fun, but it's difficult to see in bright daylight. Not least because it's pretty much hidden from the rider's view. (Image credit: Simon Fellows)Uniquely, the C706 features a slender 1mm Star Ring light band that wraps around its front lip. This will illuminate in one of twelve colours of your choice and can be set to pulsate (Breathe, in Magene-speak) or flash. Additionally, an alternative state Breathing, Flashing, Steady or Close (off) can be triggered when certain conditions are met. For example, you can program it to shine solid red if your heart rate exceeds a pre-set limit. This is achieved through Magenes Smart Assistant, which uses If-This-And-That-Then-Do-This style logic. Smart Assistant is currently quite limited in use, but it can also alter lighting network settings, warn when its time to eat and let you know if youre exceeding a preset speed, which is useful for shared-use paths. The tech is in beta but shows promise.Magene says that a full charge, via the USB-C port at the units bottom edge, should be enough to power a 17 to 25-hour adventure, depending on temperature conditions and individual configuration. When not in use, the port is protected by a weather and dust-resistant cover in fact, the C706 is waterproof to IPX7, which is enough to withstand an unplanned dunking in up to a metre of water for 30 minutes.More buttons at the rear of the unit, together with the usual cover to plug the charge port. The C706 is waterproof to IPX7, which is very good indeed. (Image credit: Simon Fellows)GPS functionality is dual-band, supporting five global systems: Beidou, GPS(L1+L5), Glonass, Galileo, QZSS. There are 8 gigabytes of storage on tap for global mapping, with all regions freely available via Magenes OnelapFit app. Where Garmin and other competitors tend to ship their units with mapping largely pre-loaded, Magene requires you to download areas one at a time, which is slightly cumbersome but hardly a dealbreaker. Navigation is thoroughly implemented. Maps can be zoomed and quickly switched from north-up to heading-up views. Should you ride off course, the C706 should re-route you to your destination or, if you prefer, to the nearest intersection. Its also possible, via the OnelapFit app, to navigate back to start, save waypoints, generate custom routes and import GPX files. Unfortunately, it is not possible to input a destination directly into the C706, this can only be achieved via the app.The display is clear, bright and colourful, which makes navigation at a glance a joy. However, note the almost non-existent radar lane on the left of the screen. (Image credit: Simon Fellows)Magenes ClimbPro is similar to Wahoos Summit suite of climbing features and Garmins identically named ClimbPro. Just like the competition, Magenes version of ClimbPro automatically identifies climbs within an imported route and displays key metrics such as current gradient, average gradient, climb length, elevation profile, remaining distance and remaining ascent. It also works in Freeride mode, where the unit can detect nearby climbs without a preloaded route, show them on screen, and guide you to the start.The Magene C706 feels like a sophisticated, quality piece of hardware. Sadly, the bundled mount does not. (Image credit: Simon Fellows)Generously, Magene includes a TPU case/bumper and a screen protector with the C706, accessories that other brands typically charge about 20/$20 for. However, I wish it had provide a decent out-front mount instead. All thats supplied in the box is a cheap bar/stem mount held in place with rubber O-rings, together with a compatible insert that can be screwed into third-party out-front mounts. Finally, Magenes OnelapFit is the C706s companion app, used to configure many of its settings, manage maps and routes, create or import structured workouts, sync rides and analyse training data. It also provides the bridge to services such as Strava, Komoot and TrainingPeaks. Its available for both iOS and Android.PerformanceThe uncluttered Home Screen is to navigate. The computer ships with just two outdoor ride profiles Road is selected here but it is easy to add more. (Image credit: Simon Fellows)Setup via the OnelapFit app is as routine as that of any of Magenes competitors, with a couple of caveats. Essentially, its simply a case of registering a new account on a smartphone, then connecting the C706 via Bluetooth. Once youve entered your basic physiological attributes, connected the C706 to WiFi and downloaded any pressing firmware updates, youre pretty much set. The computer is managed via the OnelapFit app, shown here on an iPhone. It's straightforward to use and fairly comprehensive. However, it is nowhere near as mature as competitor platforms such as Garmin Connect. Note the option to dial in a navigation destination, something that's not possible directly on the C706. (Image credit: Simon Fellows)However, downloading mapping is an additional step. It doesnt take more than five minutes, but an extra step is an extra step when youre impatient to get riding. Fortunately, the process is slick. The app prompts you to trace a rectangle around your target area within a global map. I chose to focus on the north Cotswolds, which entailed a modest 34.3 megabytes of data, including offline navigation files and climbing data. Another mild frustration is that the C706 ships with just two outdoor ride profiles: Road and Commute. If youre a gravel rider, own an e-bike or dabble in mountain biking, then youll need to create appropriate profiles manually from scratch. Thankfully, this is also astonishingly easy to accomplish using OnelapFit. More than 110 data fields can quickly and easily be added to both new and existing profile pages. (Image credit: Simon Fellows)New pages can be configured, and existing pages appended, with grids covering an entire gamut, from an uncluttered single column displaying a single metric to a dozen data-dense cells. More than 110 available data fields cover almost every conceivable conventional metric, from time, temperature and speed to heart rate, power, climbing and cycling dynamics. This may sound a lot it is a lot but its outgunned by the huge depth of information available on Garmin devices. The US brand goes much deeper, with many more permutations of the same underlying metric. Take power, for example. The C706 might give you 3-second power, average power, normalised power, balance and so forth but Garmin adds 10-second and 30-second variants, watts/kg versions, lap versions, last-lap versions, %FTP and numerous cycling-dynamics derivatives. On top of that, Garmin offers a host of proprietary interpretive metrics, such as training readiness, Grit, Flow, Stamina, Training Effect and Performance Condition. Magenes metrics are best summed up as comprehensive, whereas Garmins are exhaustive.A Road Profile page, showing clearly legible data fields. (Image credit: Simon Fellows)Surprisingly, one area in which the C706 is lacking is e-bike support. It had no issue identifying the integrated power meter on my Specialized Creo, yet it failed to report e-bike battery level, assist mode, remaining battery range or any motor-related data. I understand this omission is common across all e-bike systems, whether youre running a Bosch, TQ, Shimano STEPS, Yamaha, Mahle or whatever.Support for other sensors over ANT+ and Bluetooth 5.0 protocols is solid. Power meters, cadence sensors, radar, smart lights, Di2 and eTap are all catered for. You can even monitor and control a paired DJI or Insta360 action camera with the C706. Unsurprisingly, the C706 reports outputs from Magenes own range of power meters and communicates with third-party products including Garmin Rally and Favero Assioma pedals. If youre using these pedals (I wasnt) the C706, in common with many other bike computers, will display Power Phase (where in the pedal stroke each leg produces positive power), Standing vs Seated Time and Platform Center Offset. More data fields within another Road Profile page. Even on these pages, the radar lane is hard to see. (Image credit: Simon Fellows)The C706 can also act as a hub for compatible ANT+ bike lights, displaying their battery status and allowing lighting modes solid, flash and so on to be controlled from the head unit. My light network included a radar smart light, which introduced a major niggle for me. Many head units display the radar lane as a high-contrast solid bar at the edge of the screen. The C706s lane is a trail of light grey chevrons, which are barely perceptible on most data screens and next to invisible on the map screen. Regardless of whether I was riding in bright sunshine or late-evening summer twilight, I couldnt reliably make out the lane or the vehicle icons within it. Hopefully, Magene will re-think radar implementation in future firmware updates.Why place the speaker within the mounting boss? Alerts and voice prompts can be hard to hear in heavy traffic and windy conditions. (Image credit: Simon Fellows)Unfortunately, my radar experiences highlighted another issue with the C706. The speaker is beautifully integrated into the alloy mounting boss, which is aesthetically pleasing but acoustically dumb. The speakers output radar warnings, navigation prompts, bike bell and more is muffled by the handlebar mount, making it difficult to hear in traffic, even with the volume manually turned up to 11. Voice commands become mumbled, and shrill alerts take on the soft, somniferous quality of meditation chimes.At least the touchscreen is excellent. Well mostly. It cannot compete with the Edge 1050 for brightness, but I found it plenty legible enough under bright August skies. Colours are vibrant, contrast is good, and I didnt find its comparatively low resolution a concern. Text and map renderings remain crisp, if not pin sharp.The display is also fast and responsive, reacting quickly to prods and swipes from my forefinger. Sadly, Magene has shot itself in the foot with the TFT LCD screen, which on my test unit appeared completely black when viewed through polarised lenses. This is a massive issue for the many cyclists whove invested a large sum in polarised riding glasses. According to UK distributor Chicken Cycle, this doesnt affect all units uniformly, with some more visible than others depending on the angle of view (the nature of polarisation). Calling up existing routes is easy, and they load quickly. (Image credit: Simon Fellows)Provided you can see the C706s display, navigation is mostly painless and dependable, especially with imported routes. With 3.3in of screen real estate and the inevitable bulk that goes with it, this is a computer that holds more appeal for leisure and endurance riders than crit racers, so it should excel at nav. Mapping is clear and uncluttered, and directions unambiguous, making routes largely effortless to follow. Routes and direction prompts are clear and unambiguous. (Image credit: Simon Fellows)Creating those routes, however, does take a little effort. You cant search for a destination address on the C706, this has to be entered into the OnelapFit app and the ride initiated from there. The route will then be imported across to the C706, which can take a few minutes.You can, however, save locations home, favourite cafes and so on within OnelapFit and sync them over Bluetooth. The C706 populates a library of these Frequent Locations, which can be navigated to from anywhere within your current mapping region. In my experience, the C706 will only calculate one route option. If you deviate from it, the head unit will try to bring you back on course, but it doesnt give you the luxury of several route options from the get-go. The route is not editable either. Go off route, and the C706 can struggle to re-route. (Image credit: Simon Fellows)I found routing and re-routing idiosyncratic. Often, the C706 would route me down major A-roads rather than more cycle-friendly B-roads, yet it would also plunder the bridlepath network legally rideable offroad tracks in the UK with carefree abandon. An unwelcome segment on a road bike ride. Re-routing, if I lost my way, was also somewhat haphazard, and prone to occasional failure. Within OnelapFit it is also possible to create routes by converting previous rides, selecting multiple points on the apps map exasperating on a smartphone screen and importing GPX files. Routes can also be automatically synced from both Strava and Komoot. Frankly, I rarely need routes developed on the fly, preferring to import pre-planned GPX files authored in software such as OS Maps. I also use Komoot which integrates with OnelapFit a lot, especially for overseas trips. Until the C706s routing matures, I recommend you do the same; Komoot gets the vote for best routing planning in CW's Cycling's Best Apps guide.Mapping does include street names, which are often quoted in turn-by-turn voice and screen prompts. In short, navigation is solid, provided you import GPX files or use a third-party service.Once successfully re-routed, the C706 works flawlessly. I recommend using GPX files or a platform such as Komoot, rather than trying to develop a route within OnelapFit. (Image credit: Simon Fellows)Magenes ClimbPro feature is clearly inspired by Garmins live climb profile tool of the same name. It works when following a route or in FreeRide mode, i.e. not following a route. Ride within 100 metres of a meaningful slope, and a ClimbPro popup displays a colour-coded elevation profile of the climb, showing your position on it alongside current gradient, distance remaining and remaining ascent. It also provides headline climb information such as total length, average gradient and elevation gain, helping you judge how hard the effort is and pace it accordingly.In FreeRide mode, the C706 will detect and serve up profiles shortly before an ascent starts to bite, or budding KOM and QOM hunters can seek them out from a list of Nearby Climbs. This list can be filtered by Cat 4, 3, 2 and so on. There are a couple of limitations. If youre following a route, the ClimbPro profile popup is restricted to climbs on that route. Secondly, ascents must be at least 400m long and have a gradient of 2.5% or more. Be aware that many hills in the UK tend to be punchy but short, so they fail to meet these criteria.I find climb profile tools genuinely useful, whether that be Garmins ClimbPro or Wahoos Summit. Magenes ClimbPro is similarly gratifying. Up until recently, users complained about inaccuracies and inconsistencies, but Magene ironed out these buggy behaviours with firmware release v1.970.Post-ride stats within OnelapFit are extensive just a tiny selection is shown here but the platform still lags behind services such as Garmin Connect. (Image credit: Simon Fellows)A large part of Garmins appeal and Wahoos, for that matter is its mature training and wellness ecosystem. Although some of Garmins more advanced training features sit behind its Connect+ subscription, there is still plenty available for free. Magenes offer is more basic, but it does cover the essentials. OnelapFit provides Free Training for indoor smart-trainer control, with the choice of Target Power, Resistance Level or Grade Level; structured Workouts can be created in the app or imported from TrainingPeaks; and Simulated Routes allow a compatible trainer to recreate the changing gradients of a chosen course. Whats missing is the deeper coaching layer offered by Garmin, such as adaptive training plans, suggested workouts and more sophisticated physiological analysis.Finally, battery life. This is always tricky to evaluate because so much depends on temperature and the number and variety of sensors connected. My C706 was only exhausted after a respectable 20 hours of riding. This was in high summer, with ambient temperatures in the region of 24 32C (75.289.6F). Radar and power meters were always connected. This is impressively close to Magenes claimed 17 25-hour range. Charging from 20-percent battery to full took about an hour and forty minutes.ValueThe Magene C706 is packaged as a premium product, yet its price significantly undercuts the competition. (Image credit: Simon Fellows)Well, is the Magene C706 a Garmin Edge 1050 killer, a slayer of Wahoo Elemnt bike computers? No, but I believe it is one of the most significant GPS head unit launches of recent years. In terms of hardware and build quality, Magene has very nearly achieved parity with the big three. Only the silly polarised lens issue and speaker placement let it down. When it comes to UI and software, it falls short. Way short when I consider just how deep Garmins training and wellbeing ecosystem is. Yet, for many cyclists those who have little interest in training routines, sleep patterns and a thousand and one metrics none of that matters.What does matter is price and value. Price is fixed; value depends on how much of a power user you are (or have pretensions of becoming). If your requirements sit at the upper end of modest decent nav, connectivity to radar, power, a bell etc then youll be delighted with the C706. My only real gripes are poor radar integration and somewhat unreliable onboard nav routing and re-routing. Hopefully, these will both be addressed in future firmware updates. Currently, the Garmin Edge 1050 retails for 599.99/$699.99, the Hammerhead Karoo for 449.99/$525 and the Wahoo Elemnt Roam 3 for 399.99/$449.99. The Magene C706 retails for 239/$229. Ill leave you to do the maths.SpecsPretty pointless but fun. The default Road Profile screen features a huge speedometer. Useful, perhaps, on shared paths. (Image credit: Simon Fellows)Price: 239/$229.Screen Size: 3.3 inchesWeight: 111g (verified)Waterproof: IPX7Charging Port: USB-CBattery Life: 17-25 hours claimed, which is plausibleStorage: 8gb

The operator added they were open to further consultation discussing what led to the decision, but did not suggest they would be lifting their ban

Kraftwerk have always been into bikes, right since the groups Tour de France was released, back in 1983. Now another Kraftwerk bike has come up for auction.Theres no record of Kraftwerk co-founder Ralf Htter having actually ridden the bike in the current lot. But the Canyon Ultimate CF SLX Kraftwerk is one of a limited edition of just 21 with graphics designed by Htter as part of a collaboration ahead of the 2017 Tour de France Grand Dpart in Dsseldorf, Kraftwerks home city.At the time, Roman Arnold, Canyon's founder, said he had been moved to work with Htter by memories of partying in friends basements as a teenager [listening to] Kraftwerks groundbreaking sounds.One of 21 Canyon claimed the reflective tape graphics took over seven hours per frame to apply. Canyon Bicycles/Tino Pohlmann The Canyon Ultimate CF SLX Kraftwerk was originally sold by Canyon for 10,000, so it will be interesting to see if its value has increased in the intervening nine years. The bike at auction, numbered 5 of 21, has a pre-sale estimate of 10,000 to 20,000, so there's a good chance it has.It is decked out in SRAM and Zipps finest, with Htters intricate geometric pattern of reflective tape on the matt black frame claimed by Canyon to have taken over seven hours of work per frame.The bike is accompanied in the lot at auction by a Kraftwerk cycling jersey, tee shirt, water bottle and other bits and pieces, including its numbered certificate and original packaging. Florian Schneider's Speedwell titanium bike sold for 57,600 last year. A year ago, the titanium Speedwell bike ridden by the late Florian Schneider in the bands 1984 Tour de France video sold at auction for $57,600, plus 28% buyers premium, so there's clearly an active market for Kraftwerk-related cycling memorabilia.If you want a piece of the Kraftwerk action, Propstores auction takes place on 1 and 2 October, with a pre-sale exhibition at the Cumberland Hotel in London from 24 to 27 September.

Ivn Romeo finished 15th at the 2026 Montral Time Trial World Championships, in a race dominated by Remco Evenepoel. The Spanish rider could not get close to the front, but he was satisfied with his sensations after tackling, for the first time, a time trial of this nature and over an especially lo...

Off:Roader GironaThree stages | 320kmNights3Stages3.5DifficultyRated 3 out of 5PRICE FROM999VIEW DATES & BOOKNights3Stages3.5DifficultyRated 3.5 out of 5PRICE FROM999VIEW DATES & BOOKOVERVIEWHIGHLIGHTSACCOMMODATIONGETTING THEREPACKING LISTFAQsOVERVIEWJoin a group of like-minded gravel riders for a long weekend of gravel riding in the cycling heartland of Girona, Spain. Well be based at Rocacorba Cycling, a peaceful retreat tucked away near Banyoles surrounded by rolling hills, olive groves and endless gravel tracks waiting to be explored.This is your home away from home: a warm welcome, a pool to cool off in, a sauna to ease tired legs, and a private chef serving fresh, nutritious, and seriously tasty food every day.Well ride straight from the door no transfers, no hassle, just perfect gravel from the first pedal stroke. The weekend includes 4 rides, including a ride into Girona and a ride to the seaside. Well also have a yoga session by the pool and opportunities to improve your gravel riding and mechanical skills.Sign up now for our inaugural Girona gravel escape!Included in Ride PackageAccommodation3 nights at Rocacorba cycling boutique hotel. Choose private single, shared twin (2 beds) or shared double (1 bed) rooms.Airport TransfersFly to Girona (GRO) where our team will be on hand to greet you.4 Epic StagesA packed weekend with rides on arrival & departure day. Fully supported rides with guides leading small groups, van support & regular feed stops.MealsBring some money for drinks but our package includes 3 dinners, 2 lunches & 3 breakfasts.Regular StopsRegular feed stops with lunch stops in beautiful locations. WHATS NOT INCLUDED: Flights, Insurance (mandatory), Bike rental, Drinks with lunch & evening mealsREAL RIDER REVIEWSLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.John DoeCEOLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.John DoeCEOLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.John DoeCEOITINERARYDAY 1Arrival in Girona, transfer to Rocacorba hotel (transfer takes approx. 50 min). After a quick lunch we'll roll out for an afternoon ride into Girona and back. Stage One: 61km, 769m elevationDAY 2Stage Two: 128km, 1400m elevation, 60% off roadDAY 3Stage Three: 93km, 1340m elevation, 60% off roadDAY 4Departure day. Before heading to the airport, we'll have time for a quick spin. RIDE HIGHLIGHTSGlorious GravelGirona is a dream for gravel riders. With its mix of smooth fire roads, quiet forest paths, and stunning climbs, there is something for everyone. Youll ride terrain thats fast, fun, and perfectly balanced between challenge and flow. Whats more, Rocacorba Cycling is situated amongst some of the best gravel tracks so can roll from your door straight off road.Ride to the seaTheres nothing like rolling out from the hills and hitting the coast on gravel. Feel the terrain shift from forest tracks to sea air as you descend towards the Mediterranean. The lunch stop at the beach tops off the superb riding, before heading back onto the gravel for a fast run back to Rocacorba.Discover GironaOur day one routes take us right through Girona - a city that lives and breathes cycling. Youll roll past cobbled lanes, riverside paths, and caf-lined streets buzzing with riders from around the world. Its the perfect mid-ride moment to soak up the energy of Girona before heading back to our tranquil accommodation in Banyoles.5 UNMISSABLE HIGHLIGHTSNUMBER OneCancano Road Climb aka the mini Stelvio with sweeping switchbacks, rock tunnels and view across the valley.NUMBER TWOFraele Towers Built in the 1300's as observation and signally towers, all that remains of what was once a much larger fortification and a chance to admire the view from the top of the climb.number threeCancano Lakes Ride around the edge of the vibrant turquoise waters of the Cancano Lakes and marvel at the engineering feat of the massive hydroelectric dam.Number FourStelvioHigh mountain trails to the top of the Stelvio take you through forests, mountain meadows and rocky mountain side switchbacksStelvio road descent for what must be some of the most picturesque switchbacks of any alpine climb. Number fiveBormioA charming alpine town at the foot of the Stelvio Pass, Bormio is famed for its legendary climbs, natural hot springs, and hearty Valtellina cuisine the perfect mix of cycling heritage and mountain culture. KNOW BEFORE YOU GOAccommodationWell stay at Rocacorba Cycling, a boutique hotel, comprising a number of exquisite Catalan villas, from the 17th century. You can choose between a private single room (limited availablity), shared twin (2 beds) or shared double (1 bed) room. Bike & Tyre ChoiceWe recommend running tubeless tyres of 38-45mm with a gravel tread pattern for the faster rolling terrain in the area. Should rain be forecast for the trip, you may wish to consider a grippier tread. There will be some climbs on our routes, which are longer than UK gravel climbs, so a great ratio of at least 1:1 is advised.FoodCatalan tapas (or pinxos) celebrate the regions rich flavours - smoky cured meats, fresh seafood, artisan cheeses, and vibrant vegetables. Each bite tells a story of tradition and Mediterranean flair, inviting people to connect, share, and savour the experience together All best enjoyed with a glass of local Empord after a day on the bike.weatherApril is a great month to visit Girona, with comfortable midday temperatures ranging from 16 to 20C and very little rainfall. The weather is warm enough to ride in short sleeves, and the perfect opportunity to earn your first tan lines of the year.TerrainGravel cycling in Girona comprises smooth, champagne gravel on a big network of greenways, as well as dirt tracks and some chunkier gravel. Our routes will take us on a mix of the terrain in the area so be prepared for a bit of technical riding as well as the smooth stuff. Any technical sections will be short and our guides and a coach will be on hand with hints and tips to develop your skills throughout the weekend.STAGE DETAILSARRIVAL DAY: AFTERNOON RIDE TO GIRONARoute Summary:With a morning arrival and short transfer, there is plenty of time for lunch by the pool, bike building & getting ready for a lovely 60km spin down to Girona to see the town & enjoy the world famous cafes.Ride Distance: 60km Ride Elevation: 750m % Off Road: 75% Difficulty: 2.5/5TO THE COASTRoute Summary:The Queen Stage! A glorious ride to the beautiful Costa Brava. Its a long stage but the gravel is fast rolling with no technical sections.We have options to shorten the ride if anyone wants a slightly easier option today.Ride Distance: 128km Ride Elevation: 1400m % Off Road: 70% Difficulty: 4/5GRAVEL LA GARROTXARoute Summary:After yesterdays big ride, today is a slightly easier ride as we head west into the traditional county of Garrotxa.Todays ride is on champagne gravel with delightful scenery as we ride through rolling hills & sleepy villages. A delightful day to chat with your fellow riders and enjoy the best of gravel cycling.Ride Distance: 93km Ride Elevation: 1340m % Off Road: 70% Difficulty: 3/5ONE LAST SPINRoute Summary:For those that want it, we have one last ride on the final morning. This is the perfect sign off from Girona with a flowy route taking in a big loop of Banyoles on some of the best local gravel.Ride Distance: 40km Ride Elevation: 358m % Off Road: 70% Difficulty: 2/5Your Guides Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua.Rental Bikesgetting to GironaFly Into:Girona Airport (GRO)Flights From:There are regular direct flights operated by Ryanair.Transfer Times:On arrival day, we will have a transfer departing from Girona airport at 11.00.On departure day, we will have a transfer departing the hotel for flights after 16.00.Transfers will take approx. 50 min.Fly Into: Barcelona (BCN)Flights From: There are regular direct flights operated by most airlines.Transfer Times:On arrival day, we will have a transfer departing from Barcelona airport at 11.30.On departure day, we will have a transfer departing the hotel for flights after 17.00.Note: transfer times are subject to change should flight times change. Final times will be confirmed and sent to you a month before your tripAccommodation & MealsAccommodation: Well stay in a mixture of hotels. You can choose between a private single room (limited availablity), shared twin (2 beds) or shared double (1 bed) room. All of our accommodation is hand picked and we have selected some really special places.We stay at:Granada Boutique Hotel Cerro del SolGuadix YIT Abentofail (2 nights)Granada Boutique Hotel Cerro del SolMeals 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches on the road, 4 dinners are included in the package. Drinks with lunch & dinner are excluded.packing listCycling KitBibs/shorts | Jerseys/tops (consider LS t-shirts for cooler temperatures)Gilet | Waterproof jacket | Arm and leg warmersCycling shoes | Socks | Mitts Helmet | Sunglasses2 bottlesGPS device with handle bar mountBike Spares2 x inner tubes suitable for the size of your tyreSpare tyre | Tyre levers |Small pump | Multitool1 x puncture repair kit (if running a tubeless set up, have a tubeless repair kit including plugs and spare sealant)Chain link specific for your bike chain | Lube | Brake pads | Spare rear mech hanger for your bikeRear light | 2 Bottle cagesSpare batteries/charging cables for lightsPersonal Medical Kit1 x crepe roll bandage | Gauze or similar absorbent dressing | Assorted plasters | Rubber gloves | Steri-Strips | Antiseptic (spray, cream or wipes)Small set of scissors | Tweezers | Pain Killers (paracetamol) | Prescribed medicationMust Pack ItemsPower bank | Flip flops | Swimming kit | Shower gel | Hydration & Personal energy bars | Chamois cream | Sun creamHotel & MealsAccommodation: Well stay at Rocacorba Cycling Boutique Hotelthroughout the trip, a 17th century estate, surrounded by serene beauty of the hills.You can choose between a private single room (limited availablity), shared twin (2 beds) or shared double (1 bed) room.Meals 3 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners are included in the package. Drinks with lunch & dinner are excluded.DATES & PRICESTourSTARTFINISHSINGLE ROOMTWIN/DOUBLE ROOMDEPOSITWomen OnlyWed 21 April 2027Sat 24 April 20271199999pp399ppBOOK NOWMixedWed 16 September 2026Sat 19 September 20261199999pp399pp BOOK NOWMixed2027Wed 7 April 2027Sat 10 April 20271199999pp399ppBOOK NOWSaturday 13 July 2024Friday 26 July 2024775775775BOOK NOWDATES & PRICESTuesday 7 Oct 2025Saturday 11 Oct 2025Single1599Twin1399ppDeposit399pp REGISTER INTERESTWed 15 April 2026Sat 18 April 2026Single1199Twin999ppDeposit399pp Women only - Sold outWed 16 September 2026Sat 19 September 2026Single1199Twin999ppDeposit399pp Mixed - Book NowWed 22 April 2026Sat 25 April 2026Single1199Twin999ppDeposit399pp By the Coast - Book NowSaturday 13 July 2024Friday 26 July 2024775775775BOOK NOWSaturday 13 July 2024Friday 26 July 2024775775775BOOK NOWFAQsAM I SUITABLE FOR THIS RIDEGreat destination for all levels, for newbies as well as more experience riders wanting a varied terrain to develop skills, with coaching on hand to help.HOW DO I GET TO GIRONA?Fly in/out of Girona airport. There are regular direct flights operated by Ryanair.WHAT TIME ARE THE AIRPORT TRANSFERS?On arrival day, we will have a transfer departing from Girona airport at 11.00.On departure day, we will have a transfer departing the hotel for flights after 16.00.Transfers will take approx. 50 min.Note: transfer times are subject to change should flight times change. Final times will be confirmed and sent to you a month before your trip.IS BIKE RENTAL AVAILABLE?We collaborate with a local partner to provide bike rental. Contact us for more information.E-BIKE AVAILABLEWere pleased to welcome e-bikes on many of our European trips, making our rides accessible and enjoyable for a wider range of riders. Please note that most airlines currently do not allow e-bike batteries to be transported on flights, so we recommend checking directly with your airline before booking. For selected trips (Tuscany and Girona), it is possible to rent e-bikes locally if you book early. Please contact us for more details.WHAT'S THE WEATHER LIKE IN GIRONA IN APRIL?April is a great month to visit Girona, with comfortable midday temperatures ranging from 16 to 20C and very little rainfall. The weather is warm enough to ride in short sleeves, and the perfect opportunity to earn your first tan lines of the year.DO I NEED A VISA?British citizens do not require a visa to enter Spain.DO I NEED TRAVEL INSURANCE?Travel insurance is compulsory for our trips, and you are required to provide us with your policy information before departing. Its worth checking your policy, asnot all insurance covers cycling abroad, emergency medical treatment or your bike. We recommend it includes cancellation insurance, should you be unable to join the trip for specific reasons such as illness.Thats why weve partnered with Bikmo to offer a 10% discount* on their travel insurance, and offer a 5% discount* on their comprehensive cycle insurance. [Quick Quote]OTHER RIDES YOU MAY LIKEThe post Off:Roader Girona Mixed appeared first on Glorious Gravel Off Road Adventures in Cycling.

Today is Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, so consider this a non-post in observation of and deference to this holy occasion.[The Shofar can be slippery, so consider giving it the Rivendell treatment by wrapping yours in Newbaums.]Unfortunately, being just an all-around exemplary person, I have little to nothing for which to atone. The bicycle industry and the cycling community (blech) at large is a whole other story. So heres an incomplete list of their sins, transgressions, and shortcomings, and I trust they will spend the day in solemn reflection and groveling for forgiveness for the following at the very least:Jerseys That Say PNS On ThemRampant Anti-Rim BrakeismCrippling Battery DependenceWhile Were At It, Canyon BicyclesWhile Were At It, GRVL**[Please note I mean GRVL, not gravel. Gravel is just Very Small Rocks and inherently neither good nor bad. GRVL is a never-ending consumerist fever dream and an unprovoked assault on vowels that has spread like a persistent diaper rash from cycling to all outdoor lifestyle activities.]Front Derailleur-phobiaIntegrated Cockpits, Talking About Integrated Cockpits, Nitpicking About The Many Drawbacks Of Integrated Cockpits When Its Too Late And Really All Your Fault Anyway Because Youve Been Enabling These Companies For Years, Etc.Endless Show Coverage Of Overcomplicated Custom Bicycles With 32-Inch Wheels And Ironic Brand Names And Photos Of Them Next To Their Hipster Builders[The AIs take on Endless Show Coverage Of Overcomplicated Custom Bicycles With 32-Inch Wheels And Ironic Brand Names And Photos Of Them Next To Their Hipster Builders. Not bad. This blog should be running completely on autopilot before Christmas.]Its a hellscape out there and you should all be deeply ashamed of yourself.I Love You,Tan TenovoXOXO

Brake maintenance should mean more than an annual bleed. Here's how to get the very best out of your hydraulic brakes

Chinese brand Whaleroad has launched a new wireless drivetrain called R7, which features a whopping 14-speed cassette.We spotted the new Whaleroad R7 drivetrain fitted to a Cykl Graave at the Sea Otter Europe trade show in Girona.Whaleroad isnt the only Chinese cycling brand to release a drivetrain thats compatible with 14 speeds. Wheeltops EDS derailleurs can also be configured for up to 14 gears, but this is the first time weve seen such a system paired with an actual 14-speed cassette.Antoine Delmur, the founding director of Cykl, said of the R7 drivetrain: We've been testing it for a little while now and, so far, it's really impressed us.418% gear range This is the first 14-speed cassette we've seen. Nick Clark / Our Media Whaleroad says its 1x14-speed cassette offers a 418 per cent gear range, spanning from an 11-tooth smallest sprocket to a 46-tooth largest sprocket.The cassette fits a conventional Shimano HG freehub body, meaning there's no change needed to proprietary standards.Squeezing the extra gears into that space has seen the cogs on the bottom of the block become significantly narrower.Wireless derailleur The drivetrain comes also comes with a crank. Nick Clark / Our Media Whaleroads R7 derailleur is wireless and uses a removable 725mAh battery. Whaleroad claims up to 1,500km of riding from a charge.The battery uses a USB-C port, and Whaleroad says that a 10-minute charge is enough for 200km of riding.An accompanying app enables riders to customise shifting and update the firmware.Similar to Wheeltops EDS, Whaleroad says the derailleur can be programmed to work with anything from a three-speed to a 14-speed cassette.The rear derailleur also features an adjustable clutch, IP67 weatherproofing and what Whaleroad calls an Impact Protection System, designed to enable the derailleur to realign itself following an impact.Is 14-speed the next frontier? Campagnolo Super Record 13 X features 13-speeds. Campagnolo The arrival of another 14-speed drivetrain comes as the established drivetrain manufacturers continue to add sprockets of their own.SRAMs flagship road groupset remains 12-speed, although its 1x Red XPLR AXS gravel groupset moved to 13 speeds in 2024, pairing a 10-46t cassette with a direct-mount rear derailleur.Campagnolo went one step further in 2025, launching Super Record 13 as the first 2x13-speed wireless electronic road groupset.The current Shimano Dura-Ace R9200 groupset has 12 speeds, but that looks set to change.What appears to be the unreleased Dura-Ace R9300 groupset has already been spotted in use at the Vuelta a Espaa with a 2x13-speed setup. There have been previous leaks, including a mysterious 13th sprocket appearing in Shimanos E-Tube app, which have further strengthened the case for Shimano moving to 13 speeds.If that happens, Whaleroads 14-speed setup will still have one more sprocket than the flagship offerings from cyclings drivetrain giants.Whether you actually need it is another question. You may like: Eurobikes biggest groupset news wasnt from SRAM or Shimano it was everyone else