The driving force behind India's successful 2032 UCI World Championships bid has an even bigger goal in mind as cycling is set for its first-ever rainbow jersey race in the country - bringing a new Grand Tour to the sport. Jitendra Dudi, the official behind Punes bid for the championships, wants In...

We dont agree with omitting some opinions because we might not necessarily agree, says company before issuing legal threat to this website. A high-profile Irish prize competition company which runs online competitions seen by some politicians as unregulated or loosely regulated gambling has been accused of posting a rage-bait video against people who cycle to drum up business via its social media channels. The company has denied this and said their video included a mix of views.Last month, the Irish Independent reported that the growing prevalence of these competition companies has prompted Fianna Fil TD Paul McAuliffe to call on the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland to open an investigation into the sector and assess how well it will be covered under new gambling legislation.This week, one of the most high-profile companies, Waterford-based PLEO Media, operating as Blaa Giveaways, posted a clickbait video in which it asks people their views on having cyclists pay a road tax. The responses shown in the video were mixed but included one person interviewed saying, I hate them, I hate them and another referring to Lycra worn by racing cyclists as like a gimp suit.Blaa Giveaways, in a statement to IrishCycle.com (see the full statement below), said: We dont agree with omitting some opinions because we might not necessarily agree with them or indeed because others dont, before issuing a thinly veiled legal threat. Responding to the video on the companys Instagram page, one commenter said: Sad to see Blaa giveaways promoting this kind of hate on our roads, I thought you could have done better!Blaa responded: We dont promote anything, we sometimes ask topical questions we hear on the radio to get peoples thoughts and post all responses as we hear them. Responding to Blaas comment, another member of the public was having none of that kind of response and said: Youve chosen to leave this video up even after several people have pointed out that road tax does not exist. Would you post a video of someone saying they hate any other group of people? You know exactly what you are doing and its dangerous. These negative opinions, not based on the law or on how taxation works, which you have actively chosen to share, translate into aggression on the roads.Another commenter said: Disgusting content promoting hatred against law-abiding road users. Fact-free, trope-ridden, car-centric nonsense. Just what we need, more reasons for hatred and anger on the road. And dont give me the were just asking questions, you could have asked why are drivers encouraged to feel superior and entitled, but you didnt!On Facebook, another said: Id happily pay 1 per kg of bike weight as long as all vehicles on the road pays the same. So the average car would be about 2000 and a lorry would be 40000 a year my bike 8.Callum Devereux, a journalist with RoadCC, a UK cycling website, said: Although the account has a bigger profile on Instagram, interestingly the Facebook post appears to have outperformed expectations a little more, though that maybe that says more about the type of person using each app, and their likelihood of holding strong opinions on cyclists and tax.Incidentally, I thought since this was Ireland it would be worth checking my facts on road tax, and it turns out thats not a thing there either! Motor tax, paid by drivers and set according to the CO2 emissions produced by their vehicle, does go to a Local Government Fund, but that is not, and has never been, a fund exclusively for roads, he said in an article on Road.cc.Devereux said: Thankfully, the top-rated comments on Facebook are on hand to both point this out and highlight the attention-economy cesspit the company have chosen to dive into. How tiring He said Road.cc, as an online publisher, also rely on a strategy of engagement, but A key difference however is that we have an engaged enough audience to not need to drastically pivot to rage-posting opinions about having opinions, or goading people into hatred towards an imaginary group of people avoiding a tax that doesnt exist. But you can bet your last coin well be right there to call it out!Blaa Giveaways was contacted for comment yesterday, and Jenna responded, but did not give her full name or job title. Jenna said: We conducted an on the street interview based on a discussion on radio the previous week which got a lot of interest. We find any topic people have contrasting opinions on interesting. We posted all interviews from that day in the content piece. As the video evidences, the opinions on the day were mixed and varied.Were interested to hear all opinions, even ones we might disagree with personally, because it creates dialogue and discussion, which is the foundation of speech. We dont agree with omitting some opinions because we might not necessarily agree with them or indeed because others dont, she said.Jenna from Blaa Giveaways added: Please be advised our legal team also reviews all relevant published articles. Any alleged statement, insinuations, inferences or inaccuracies that could potentially be considered defaming to our brand will be dealt with in the strongest possible terms. I have forwarded this email to them and they will be in touch in due course.IrishCycle.com yesterday asked Blaa a number of follow-up questions, including whether it is normal for them to reply to requests for comment from journalists with thinly veiled legal threats, and if the company thinks it is a bit hypocritical to claim We dont agree with omitting some opinions because we might not necessarily agree with them or indeed because others dont and in the next breath threaten legal action for coverage of your video in which a number of commenters have pointed to as fueling hate towards cyclists.Blaa did not respond to these questions before this article was published. The company was also in the news recently after it backed down from raffling off a house in Tramore, Co Waterford, after local backlash.Six months ago, Paul Leonard, the founder of Blaa Giveaways, told that Paul OConnor Podcast that he really really wanted to raffle a house in Tramore, but, whle there were raffling a house in Dublin at the time, they had not found one in Tramore, as Theyre so hard to find if you go on Daft, theres about 10 houses in Tramore, and two or three are apartments which are three times the value of what they should be.He also pointed out that the overheads of these raffles are far higher than people think, including spending over 430,000 on adverts for the Dublin house raffle. The Journal reported that Waterford Sinn Fin TD Conor McGuinness told them that he had been contacted by residents worried about the risk of locals being priced out of the market in popular tourist towns. Deputy McGuinness also said that he had contacted the ministers for housing and justice, seeking clarity on how these activities are regulated. The Journal reported that Blaa cancelled the raffle after Leonard met with locals.

For those heading into colder temperatures, 45NRTH has updated two of its most notable footwear lines, the Ragnarok and Wolvhammer. See what's changed here...The post 45NRTH Updates Leather Wolvhammer and Ragnarok Boots appeared first on BIKEPACKING.com.

The coming winter has a bit more uncertainty than usual thanks to a strong El Nino forecast. While some may get less snow than usual, some are preparing for an epic winter. There arent many cycling brands out there that can conquer the cold like Minnesotas 45NRTH. A few months ago, 45NRTH launched some new carbon fat bike rims supporting the winter fat tire cyclist. Today, they are in the news again with an update to their popular winter riding boots, the Leather Wolvhammer and the Ragnarok.Leather WolvhammerThats right, the leather Wolvhammer is back. First introduced as a limited edition collaboration with Red Wing Leather, the OG leather Wolvhammer is still one of Zachs favorite winter cycling boots of all time due to how well the leather has broken in over the years. To be clear, the new leather Wolvhammer has nothing to do with Red Wing, and the construction of the boot is substantially different. Now featuring a large BOA dial for the lower section of the boot and a large Velcro strap on the upper, the new boot is suggested for 0 25F (-18 -4C) temperatures, though 45NRTH isnt putting an official temperature rating on the boots due to how varied personal preference can be. Just know that the Ragnarok below sits one temperature rung above the Wolvhammer for slightly warmer conditions. Leather Wolvhammer is available in sizes 38-48 and 50. In Canada, these will only be available through IBD, but in the U.S. they will also be available direct to consumers. Retail: $325 ($460 CAD)We havent tried these yet, so we cant comment for sure, but the cleat pocket appears to be closer to the inboard side of the outsole, like the last gen Wolvhammer that we tested. Thats good to prevent heel rub, but potentially not so good if youre trying to maintain the narrowest Q-factor on your fat bike. Just something to keep in mind since as soon as you put cleats on the boots to test out the position, you will likely be unable to return them. New upper design with single-boot constructionSame 200g insulation for thermal protectionPremium leather upper material for good looks and protection on the outside, and a lining with a waterproof membrane on the inside for comfort and protection from the elementsTwo-bolt pedal system for ultimate connection to your rideAero Gel foam pioneered by NASA provides non-compressible, ultra-lightweight insulation underfootBOA dial system for optimized fit*Please note that one of the materials in the Leather Wolvhammer was exposed to PFAS, and as a result, these boots do not meet legal PFAS requirements in CA, NM, RI, and WA. While this product was not specified with DWR coating or any other restricted material, a supply chain issue resulted in small amounts being measured in the final product.RagnarokThe Ragnarok is still the boot for shoulder seasons with a suggested temperature range of 25F+ (-4C+). If deep winter cycling isnt your thing, but you want something to keep your feet warm and dry up until the snow flies, these could be the ticket. Ragnarok is available in sizes 36-48 and 50 and continues with a BOA fit system, but introduces a new lace path and a completely revised Velcro cuff. Retail: $245 ($350 CAD)Updated upper with high-quality Clarino microfiber for a supple, leather-like feelNew lace path for BOA to add strength to the closure and a more secure fitGray EVA midsole with black specklesNeoprene ankle cuff for more flexibilitySame trustworthy rubber outsole with anti-slip microglass rubber blocks45NRTH believes that winter riding can be magical. From quiet trails to crisp, cold winter air, they can equip you for all things winter. Hit the link below for all of the cold-weather gear.45NRTH.com

Plenty of riders get fitter and faster on their own. So the honest answer is: you don't need a cycling coach. The better question is whether a coach would help you get where you want to go, sooner and with fewer setbacks.Signs a coach would helpYou've stopped improving. Same rides, same times, same power numbers for months.You have a target. A first road race, a 25-mile time trial, a sportive, a track league or a multi-day trip.Your time is tight. Work, family and commuting leave you six or seven hours a week, and you want every one of them to count.You keep getting ill, injured or burnt out. Usually a sign of too much, too soon, or not enough recovery.You're coming back. After time away, a crash or a break, and you want a plan that rebuilds you safely.You want to understand your training. Zones, intervals, FTP, fuelling. A coach should explain why each session is there.What actually changes with a coachA good coach does three things you can't easily do for yourself.They plan. Your year gets built around the events that matter, in phases, with recovery planned in. Read more in how to structure your cycling season.They adjust. Life rarely goes to plan. A bad night's sleep, a work trip, a cold. The plan moves with you, so a missed week doesn't turn into a lost month.They give you an outside view. Most riders train their strengths and avoid their weaknesses. A coach spots the gaps: maybe it's strength work, maybe it's pacing, maybe it's cornering in a bunch.When you probably don't need one yetIf you ride for fun, enjoy the freedom of deciding each day, and have no goal in mind, keep doing that. You'll still get plenty from our free training articles and calculators. Come back when you find a target that excites you.What to look for in a coachQualifications. In the UK, British Cycling coaching awards are the benchmark. Level 3 covers planning and coaching individual riders over a season.Communication. How often will you talk? Is there a regular call, or just a plan sent once a month?Flexibility. Does the plan change week to week, or is it a fixed template?Strength work. A stronger rider is a faster, more durable one. It should be part of the plan.No lock-in. A minimum term or a setup fee is worth asking about before you start.How coaching works with usWe're a British Cycling Level 3 coaching team in London, coaching riders across the UK. Remote coaching is 140 a month and includes a personalised plan in TrainingPeaks, adjusted every week, a weekly 15-minute 1:1 call, feedback on every key session, strength work and WhatsApp support. There's no setup fee and no minimum term.Not sure yet? Book a free 30-minute call. We'll talk about your riding, your goals and your week, and tell you honestly whether coaching is worth it for you.Saddle up.

Wout van Aert won a World Cup round and finished second and fourth in two others before the 2025 Cyclocross World Championships. He still started on the fourth row in Lievin. With Van Aert eyeing a home Worlds in Ostend, Belgian national coach Angelo De Clercq told Het Laatste Nieuws he expects the...

This weeks Debrief features the Forbidden Heathen, a new Audax bag, fresh pumps and tools from Feedback Sports, the route to Ruta del Jefe, SCSW Dry Bags, Conan's Tout Terrain Catalina, two events to follow live, and much more. Find it all hereThe post Friday Debrief: SCSW Dry Bags, Bikepacking Scotland, New Feedback Tools, Forbidden Heathen, and More appeared first on BIKEPACKING.com.

Finding the right cargo system for your bikes front end can be overwhelming. Many interesting systems and bags are available, each with its own pros and cons. Neils latest piece dives into what's worked best for him and why. Explore his review belowThe post Testing the 7 Best Handlebar Cradles for Bikepacking appeared first on BIKEPACKING.com.

REIs Holiday Sale is back again. For your annual reminder of why its worth jumping on: REI has been closing all of its now 190+ physical locations across the U.S. on Thanksgiving and Black Friday since 2015, encouraging customers and employees alike to Opt Outside. The physical-shopping break means an earlier opportunity for finding deals online, with a sweeping sale that begins Nov. 13 (running through Nov. 23) marked by steep markdowns across numerous tried-and-true outdoor brands.While most markdown items benefit from 20-30% off, savvy REI shoppers will look closely at the deals for REI Co-ops in-house brand gear. The sale also covers more than 3,000 styles sold at the store. There are plenty of big-ticket hard items like skis and snowboards, boots and bindings, tents, packs and racks. As always, REI Co-op members save more, with 20% on one full-price item and an extra 20% off one REI Outlet item (Use code HOLIDAY2026 at checkout; for exclusions and details, visit REI.com/coupon). REI Outlet shoppers can save up to 60% off select items from Nov. 1719.REI Co-op members get access to additional benefits and offers, though terms and conditions apply to all:Get free U.S. standard shipping (no regular customer $100 minimum required).Save an additional 50% on a Hot Wax or Premium Wax at REI Co-op locations offering Snow Shop services.Earn 5% in card rewards on all purchases, even sale items, with the REI Co-op Mastercard .Dont have the REI Co-op Mastercard? Apply today and receive $30 in REI Co-op Mastercard Rewards approximately 7-10 business days after opening the credit card (must apply 11/10-11/23, approval required).Get $150 off any REI Recommended and REI Exclusive trips over $1,500 USD. (must book 11/111/23 for trips 12/1-5/31/27).Dive in with the marked-down cycling goods that jumped out most to us. Given the wide selection of sale products, as well as depth of options (and colorways) from the inventories of proven brands, we started with ones weve tested and reviewed over the years. We selected some ideal gifts (at least more interesting than a standard set of new socks), plus identified a few big-ticket and high-performance products with steep discounts worth budgeting for yourself.PEARL iZUMi Attack Road Cycling Shoes (Womens): $131 (25% Off)This high-end dedicated road shoe is built on a 1:1 Composite Power Plate with a carbon insert (stiffness rating 8) that efficiently transfers power, while synthetic leather uppers stay durable and breathable. Zonal fit comes from a BOA Fit System with an L6E dial for quick midfoot microadjustments and a forefoot strap for set-and-forget tension. Dual cleat compatibility (2- or 3-bolt) adds versatility, and EVA and rubber heel bumpers with a 1 cm rise help with walking.Shop NowBrooks England Flyer Saddle: $139 (25% Off)Ideal for adventure cycling, commuting, and casual touring, this long-distance classic catches eyes with a vegetable-tanned leather top that molds to your shape over time, while treated nubuck leather shortens the break-in period. Suspension springs add cushioning on rough roads, and the steel rails and iconic Brooks backplate complete the look. At 30 ounces, it prioritizes comfort over weight savings as Brooks backs its leather saddles with a 10-year guarantee.Shop NowOrtlieb Gravel Pack QL2.2 Panniers (Pair): $161 (25% Off)Built for gravel and touring loads, Ortliebs rugged, waterproof panniers are a good match for multiday tours and self-supported races. They hold 14.5 liters apiece, with roll-top closures and a PVC-free, polyurethane-coated ripstop nylon that stands up to weather and abuse. QL2.2 mounting hooks adjust without tools and fit racks up to 16 mm in diameter.Shop NowREI Co-op Trailmade Snap Fleece Mid-Layer: $52 (25% Off)Gifting a simple, trail-ready fleece can round out your riders kit. The inner polyester grid adds the right warmth on cool days, and the UPF 50+ fabric wicks moisture and shields against the sun. Hidden front snaps let you vent when the climb heats up, while a zippered chest pocket, hand pockets, and a locker loop cover the basics.Shop WomensShop MensFive Ten Freerider Pro BOA Mountain Bike Shoes (Mens): $127 (25% Off)These high-grip, flat-pedal shoes pair Stealth rubber outsoles and the classic Dotty tread for strong pedal traction, with a lightweight EVA midsole for cushioning and flexibility. BOA Li2 dials allow on-the-fly microadjustments, and impact-resistant toe boxes add protection. The synthetic uppers on these all-day adventurers dry quickly and handle weather well.Shop NowLazer Cerro KinetiCore Bike Helmet: $75 (25% Off)Crossing seamlessly from paved to gravel, this versatile helmets KinetiCore technology enhances protection from rotational impact, and its TurnSys fit system delivers a stable, comfortable fit in seconds with a quick-snap buckle. The eyewear-friendly design lets you stash your shades without the temple arms pressing against your scalp. It has 18 vents and weighs 9.52 ounces (size medium). An optional Lazer LED light and Winter Kit (both sold separately) extend its range.Shop NowPEARL iZUMi Expedition Cycling Bib Shorts (Mens): $116 (25% Off)Storage is the standout on these well-featured bibs: two thigh cargo pockets with an interior mesh security pocket, plus rear pockets at the base of the straps. A dual-density ELITE Levitate 3D chamois helps dampen road chatter, while the soft nylon raw-edge bib upper and leg bands keep the fit seamless against skin.Shop NowVision Metron 60 RS Wheelset: $2,587 (25% Off)Go big with your savings on this race-minded carbon aero wheelset, built entirely by hand. Hooked carbon rims run tubeless and pair with PRS hubs (V-1000), aero-bladed DP carbon spokes (21 front, 24 rear), and six sealed cartridge bearings. Vision developed it through extensive CFD analysis and wind-tunnel testing. At 49 ounces, the wheelset is compatible with Shimano HG or SRAM XDR freehubs.Shop NowWahoo KICKR Smart Trainer: $680 (20% Off)Wahoos V6 smart trainer maximizes your indoor riding with resistance that goes past 2,200 watts (accurate within +/- 1%), with automatic calibration, while the high-inertia flywheel, quiet belt drive, and KICKR AXIS feet recreate the side-to-side movement of riding outside. ERG Easy Ramp eases you back to your power target over 10 seconds if an interval is interrupted. Wi-Fi connectivity enables automatic firmware updates, with a Wahoo X trial included.Shop NowThis article is sponsored by REI.

Jan Tratnik has asked Red Bull - BORA - hansgrohe for a place at the 2027 Giro dItalia after seeing the route for the races first stage entirely on Slovenian roads. The 36-year-old is a Giro stage winner and has twice raced through Slovenia at the Corsa Rosa. Last July, he was road captain for Rem...