Welcome to BIKE Magazine October 2025Read this issue onlineOr subscribe for hard copyOctober is a special month to ride. The air turns crisp, the roads glow gold under autumn leaves, and every ride feels like a reminder of why we fell in love with cycling. This issue is full of stories that capture that feeling, heritage, adventure, and the kind of inspiration you only find on two wheels.We start with something truly special: Bianchis Founder Edition. Just 85 bikes worldwide, each hand-painted in Italy, each a nod to 140 years of cycling history. Theyre not just bikes, theyre heirlooms. Proof that while the sport keeps moving forward, its roots matter.Closer to home, Warwickshire lit up during the Tour of Britain. The stage at Burton Dassett wasnt just racing, it was community. Families roadside with cowbells, kids glued to ITV, clubs planning their own loops for the weekend. Jake Stewart couldnt ride on home roads this year, he was busy at the Vuelta, but his story shows exactly how watching heroes can spark dreams. Ive always believed thats cyclings greatest gift: you can see the best in the world on Friday and ride the same roads on Saturday.Endurance takes many forms, and weve got some incredible examples this month. Lyndsey Blair became the first Scot to conquer the Enduroman Arch 2 Arc, finishing with a 181-mile ride into Paris after days of running and swimming. And Victor Asenov, a blind Bulgarian athlete, tackled an Everesting on Mount Etna with courage that puts most of us to shame. Both remind us its not just about legs, its about resilience, stubbornness, and belief.And then theres LEroica. Tuscanys white roads, steel bikes, wool jerseys, pecorino at feed stations, its the romance of cycling distilled into one weekend. Riders aged 14 to 80 from 50 countries all rolling out together. No watts, no aero obsession, just the beauty of fatigue and the thrill of conquest.So as autumn settles in, whether youre pinning on a number, chasing one more KOM before winter, or spinning to the caf with mates, remember, youre part of a bigger story. The roads we ride today carry history, community, and the possibility of new beginnings.See you out there,Nick BranxtonEditor, Bike Magazine

Welcome to BIKE Magazine September 2025Read this issue onlineOr subscribe for hard copyAs the leaves begin to turn and the summer heat softens into the golden light of early autumn, September arrives with a sense of momentum and reflection. In the world of cycling, its a month that bridges the peak of the racing calendar with the promise of new adventures, and this issue of BIKE Magazine captures that energy in full stride.From the cobbled climbs of the Vuelta a Espaa to the red dust of Rwandas World Championships, September 2025 is nothing short of historic. For the first time, the UCI Road World Championships are being held on African soil, and Kigalis high-altitude circuit is set to challenge the worlds best while showcasing the continents growing influence in global cycling. Its a powerful reminder that our sport is not just evolving, its expanding, diversifying, and deepening its roots across the globe.Closer to home, we spotlight the UKs vibrant grassroots scene, from the iconic London to Brighton charity ride to the rugged Peaks Tour. These events remind us that cycling is not only about elite competition, its about community, purpose, and the joy of shared effort. Nowhere is that more evident than in the story of Drew Jonkmans and his extraordinary Project Endure, a 2,000-mile run-and-ride mission to raise awareness for mental health. His journey is a testament to the transformative power of movement and the resilience of the human spirit.Adventure also takes centre stage this month. Markus Stitzs new coast-to-coast gravel route across Scotland, featured in the short film Overland, invites riders to embrace the wild beauty of the Highlands. Its a cinematic love letter to bikepacking, and a call to explore the landscapes that shape us. Meanwhile, Ridleys E-Kanzo Adventure redefines whats possible on two wheels, blending electric innovation with rugged design for limitless exploration.And then theres LEroica, cyclings most soulful celebration. As we look ahead to the 28th edition of this Tuscan pilgrimage, were reminded that sometimes the most meaningful rides are the slowest. Steel frames, wool jerseys, tomato-sauce-stained smiles, LEroica is not about speed, but about connection: to history, to the land, and to each other.This issue also dives into the science (and art) of speed. Can you buy it? We explore the upgrades that matter, from tyres to wheels, and the ones that might just be marketing myths. Whether youre chasing KOMs or just looking to enhance your ride, our in-depth reviews offer clarity in a world of carbon and watts.As always, thank you for riding with us. Whether youre racing, touring, commuting, or dreaming of your next escape, we hope this issue inspires you to pedal further, feel deeper, and ride with purpose.See you on the road,Nick

Welcome to BIKE Magazine August 2025Read online on your computer or phoneOrder hard copy delivered to your doorDear Readers,As the summer sun stretches across Europe, we bring you an issue packed with adventure, innovation, and inspiration, designed to fuel your passion for cycling wherever your wheels may take you.This month, we journey through the Southern Alps, where Club Med Serre Chevalier has reinvented itself as a year-round haven for cyclists. With guided rides, luxury amenities, and breathtaking scenery, its a destination that blends challenge with comfort. Whether youre climbing the legendary Galibier or relaxing in alpine spas, Serre Chevalier proves that mountain magic isnt just for winter.We also follow Peter Johnsons evocative ride from Quebec to Halifax in Nova Scotia, a tale of friendship, resilience, and rain-soaked roads. From historic villages to liquorice-fuelled rituals, its a story that reminds us why we ride, not just for the destination, but for the memories made along the way.For those seeking new horizons, our feature on Eastern Poland offers a fresh perspective on bike touring. Quiet roads, warm hospitality, and the stunning Green Velo route make this region a hidden gem for cyclists. From Bialystok to Krakow, the journey is rich with culture, cuisine, and unexpected beauty.We spotlight five top cycling destinations for 2025, from South Africas Garden Route to the Andean lakes of Chile and Argentina. Whether youre craving coastal breezes or mountain climbs, these curated adventures promise unforgettable experiences.Innovation takes centre stage with Pashleys Roadfinder SL, a British-built steel speed machine that marries tradition with cutting-edge design. Handmade in the UK and built for performance, its a celebration of craftsmanship and speed. Meanwhile, Restraps modular Switch System redefines bikepacking with gear thats as adaptable as your ride.In tech news, GET and WES unveil a pioneering performance monitoring system for e-MTB racing, setting a new standard for fairness and data-driven competition. And for those looking to boost their own performance, our review of the POWERbreathe shows how five minutes a day can transform your breathing, and your ride.We also sit down with Olympic champion Elinor Barker, who shares insights on training, nutrition, and staying grounded in the fast-paced world of pro cycling. Her advice is practical, heartfelt, and a reminder that cycling is as much about mindset as it is about muscle.From the cobbled climbs of Montmartre to the sun-drenched roads of Rhodes with Sean Kelly, this issue celebrates the diversity of cycling, its landscapes, its people, and its stories. Whether youre chasing KOMs or coasting through quiet countryside, August 2025 is your invitation to ride boldly, explore deeply, and connect meaningfully.So clip in, turn the page, and let the journey begin.Ride safe,Nick

Quella Varsity ImperialThe Quella Varsity Imperial bicycle is a striking example of how simplicity and elegance can come together to create a highly functional and visually appealing urban ride. Designed with city commuters and casual cyclists in mind, this single-speed bike offers a smooth, stylish, and efficient way to navigate urban environments. With its chrome finish, minimalist frame, and practical features, the Varsity Edinburgh is more than just a mode of transportits a statement.Design and AestheticsThe first thing that catches your eye about the Quella Varsity Edinburgh is its polished chrome finish. It reflects light beautifully and gives the bike a clean, modern look that stands out in any setting. Whether parked outside a caf or cruising through city streets, this bike turns heads. The black tires, saddle, and handlebar grips provide a sharp contrast to the chrome frame, enhancing its sleek, contemporary aesthetic.The frame design is minimalist, with clean lines and a classic diamond geometry that harks back to vintage road bikes. Despite its retro inspiration, the bike feels entirely modern. Its a perfect blend of old-school charm and new-school functionality.Build Quality and ComponentsThe Varsity Edinburgh is built around a high-tensile steel frame, which offers a good balance between durability and ride comfort. Steel frames are known for their ability to absorb road vibrations better than aluminum, making this bike a great choice for longer commutes or weekend rides. The welds are clean, and the overall construction feels solid and dependable.The bike features a single-speed drivetrain, which is ideal for flat urban terrain. It reduces maintenance needs and simplifies the riding experienceno gear shifting, no derailleur adjustments, just hop on and go. The gear ratio is well-chosen for city riding, offering enough resistance for a decent workout while still being manageable on slight inclines.The deep-section alloy wheels not only add to the bikes visual appeal but also contribute to a smoother ride. Paired with puncture-resistant tires, they provide confidence on a variety of surfaces, from smooth tarmac to slightly rougher paths.Comfort and Ride ExperienceComfort is often a concern with minimalist bikes, but the Quella Varsity Edinburgh does a commendable job. The saddle is firm yet supportive, and the riding position strikes a nice balance between sporty and relaxed. Its upright enough for visibility and comfort, yet aggressive enough to allow for efficient pedaling.The bikes geometry and lightweight frame make it highly maneuverable, perfect for weaving through traffic or navigating tight corners. The lack of gears might be a limitation in hilly areas, but for flat to moderately undulating cityscapes, its more than sufficient.Practical FeaturesOne of the standout features of this model is the rear rack, which adds a layer of practicality often missing in minimalist bikes. Whether youre carrying groceries, a backpack, or a laptop bag, the rack makes the bike suitable for daily errands and commuting. Its a thoughtful addition that enhances the bikes utility without compromising its clean look.The bike also comes with mounts for mudguards and bottle cages, allowing for further customization depending on your needs. While it doesnt include lights or a bell out of the box, these can be easily added to suit your preferences.Maintenance and UpkeepThanks to its single-speed setup and lack of complex components, the Quella Varsity Edinburgh is low-maintenance. There are fewer parts to wear out or go wrong, which is a big plus for busy urban riders. Regular checks on tire pressure, brake pads, and chain lubrication are usually all thats needed to keep it running smoothly.This bike is ideal for:Urban commuters looking for a stylish, reliable ride Students or professionals who want a low-maintenance transport option Casual cyclists who enjoy weekend rides around the city or park Design-conscious riders who appreciate aesthetics as much as performanceIts not the best choice for those living in very hilly areas or who need to carry heavy loads regularly, but for most city dwellers, it hits the sweet spot between form and function.The Quella Varsity Edinburgh is a fantastic urban bicycle that combines style, simplicity, and practicality. Its eye-catching design, solid build quality, and thoughtful features make it a joy to ride and a pleasure to own. While it may not be the most versatile bike on the market, it excels in its intended role as a city commuter and casual cruiser.If youre looking for a bike thats as much about making a statement as it is about getting from A to B, the Quella Varsity Edinburgh is well worth considering.Click here for more reviews

BREATHE EASY, RIDE HARDER: REVIEW OF POWERbreatheAs any serious cyclist knows, your legs may do the peddling, but its your lungs that often set your limits. You can have the lightest bike, the perfect gearing, and a nutrition plan dialled in to the gram, but if youre gasping on climbs or winded in the sprint, your performance hits a ceiling. Thats where the POWERbreathe comes in.Initially, I was skeptical. A small plastic device that promises to strengthen my breathing muscles? It sounded like something from a late-night infomercial. But after hearing from a few teammates who swore by it, I decided to give it a proper test.Out of the box, the POWERbreathe feels well-made, lightweight but solid, with adjustable resistance and a simple design. No batteries, no apps (unless you opt for the high-end models), just you and your breath. Its portable enough to take in a jersey pocket, but really, its best used at home as part of your daily routine.Using it is straightforward but surprisingly tough. You set the resistance, then breathe in through the mouthpiece, forcing your diaphragm and intercostal muscles to work harder than normal. A full set of 30 breaths takes less than five minutes, but dont mistake that for easy. At higher resistance levels, it feels like trying to inhale through a straw while climbing Alpe dHuez.After the first week, I noticed I was less winded during hard intervals. By week three, the difference was undeniable: better control on long climbs, quicker recovery after bursts, and the ability to stay relaxed, and focused, during intense efforts.POWERbreathe is essentially a gym for your lungs. By training the muscles responsible for inhalation, you increase respiratory strength and endurance. Multiple studies back this up, especially in endurance athletes. For cyclists, this means more oxygen with less effort, a clear advantage in both training and racing.The biggest benefit for me? I no longer dread long climbs or headwinds. I feel more composed under pressure, and my breathing has become more rhythmic, especially when deep in the red. Its also helped in unexpected ways, like recovery. Ive found I can get my breathing under control faster after intense efforts, which translates into quicker heart rate recovery.POWERbreathe isnt a magic bullet, but its a powerful supplement to structured training. At around 39.99 to 59.99 depending on the model, its cheaper than a new pair of tyres and arguably offers more return on investment, especially for those of us already squeezing every watt we can out of our gear.For cyclists looking to get an edge without adding more time in the saddle, the POWERbreathe is a quiet game-changer. Five minutes a day might just make your next ride feel a whole lot easier, or faster.Rating: 4.5/5Small device, big difference.

HERO UCI Marathon World Cup 2025: As the dust settles on the HERO Sdtirol Dolomites, the 2025 HERO UCI Marathon World Cup reaches its halfway point with three electrifying rounds behind us and two decisive races ahead. With the leaderboard tighter than ever, the stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to this years mountain biking spectacle.HERO UCI Marathon World Cup 2025Elite Men: Seewald Takes the Lead, But the Chase Is OnGermanys Andreas Seewald (Singer KTM Racing Team) now leads the Elite Mens standings with 580 points, following a strong showing in the Dolomites. Hot on his heels are Belgiums Wout Alleman (Buff-Megamo) and Colombian veteran Leo Paez, both tied at 540 points.It feels great to be leading, said Seewald. But the next races will be tougher. Im especially looking forward to racing in Kirchzartenits like coming home.Paez, 43, bounced back from a shaky start in Capoliveri with a win in Andorra and remains a serious contender.I dreamed of winning the HERO for the ninth time, but Im still in the fight. Its going to be a close one, he said.Alleman, who impressed in the opening rounds, is gearing up for a strong finish.The next two races suit my style better. The ranking is still wide openIm ready to give it everything. Elite Women: Van Doorn Holds On, Mairhofer and Njemcevic in PursuitDutch rider Rosa Van Doorn continues to wear the leaders jersey with 610 points, but Italys Sandra Mairhofer is closing in fast after her victory in the Dolomites, now sitting at 590 points. Bosnias Lejla Njemcevic rounds out the top three with 450 points.It wasnt my best race, but Im proud to still be leading, said Van Doorn. The next two rounds are in regions I love. Im enjoying every moment in the jersey.Mairhofer is brimming with confidence:I feel strong, both physically and mentally. Anything can happen in MTB, but Im ready for the challenge.Njemcevic, battling seasonal allergies, is optimistic about a comeback:May and June are always tough for me, but Im feeling better now. Im aiming to climb higher in the rankings.Master Category: Llado Diaz and Gurynska Lead the ChargeIn the Master Mens category, Spains Alexandre Llado Diaz dominates with 650 points, ahead of Italians Andrea Borgogno (520) and Vinicius Malaguti (410). On the womens side, Polands Kamila Gurynska leads with 450 points, while Britains Sophie Johnson (250) eyes the top spot in the final rounds.Whats Next?All eyes now turn to the Black Forest ULTRA Bike Marathon in Germany118 km and 3,550 meters of climbing that could reshape the standings. With the final showdown at La Tramun Sea Otter Europe looming, the race to glory is far from over.Stay tuned for more updates and behind-the-scenes insights as the 2025 HERO UCI Marathon World Cup continues its epic journey.

BIKE Magazine July 2025Welcome to the July 2025 issue of BIKE Magazine, a celebration of summer, cycling, and the stories that connect us to the road, the trail, and each other.BIKE Magazine July 2025Read online on your computer or phoneOrder hard copy delivered to your doorThis month, we ride into the heart of the season with a packed calendar of events that span continents and disciplines. From the legendary climbs of the Maratona dles Dolomites to the grassroots magic of the Dunwich Dynamo, July is the crown jewel of the cycling year. Whether youre chasing KOMs in the Alps or pedaling through the night to the Suffolk coast, theres a ride waiting for you , and were here to help you find it.Our cover feature takes you deep into the Dolomites for the awe-inspiring Supermaratona , a 285 km, 13-pass odyssey that redefines what it means to challenge yourself on two wheels. Its not just a test of endurance, but a journey through history, culture, and some of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth. Thomas Hunters vivid account of this three-day epic is a reminder that the best rides are the ones that change us.We also travel to Prince Edward Island, where Peter Johnsons lyrical storytelling captures the paradoxes of a place both timeless and evolving. His reflections on history, humility, and the unexpected lessons of the road are a poignant reminder that cycling is as much about inner journeys as it is about outer miles.Elsewhere in this issue, we explore the haunting beauty of Spains ghost villages with David Cachn, dive into the wilds of the Gorges du Tarn on a bikerafting adventure, and celebrate the return of the Yorkshire Coast Dirt Dash , a gravel ride thats as much about community as it is about terrain.On the gear front, weve tested everything from the sleek Quella Varsity Edinburgh to the cutting-edge Continental Archetype tire, built for speed and born from the Tour de France. Our product reviews this month are all about performance with purpose , whether its the GRVL hydration pack, Peak Performances trail-ready apparel, or the smart safety tech of the Unit 1 AURA helmet.We also shine a spotlight on people pushing boundaries. Meet George and Josh Kohler, the father-son duo cycling around the world to raise funds for UNICEF and awareness for mens mental health. Their journey is a testament to the power of bikes to inspire, connect, and make a difference.As always, this issue is a mosaic of voices, places, and passions. Its about the joy of movement, the thrill of discovery, and the stories that unfold when we follow the road less traveled. Whether youre a commuter, a racer, a bikepacker, or a dreamer planning your next escape, we hope you find something in these pages that speaks to your own cycling soul.So pump up your tires, check your chain, and get ready to roll. July is here , and the world is waiting.Ride safe, ride far,Nick Branxton

Apollo Tyres is set to make a strong impression at Eurobike 2025 with the debut of its latest Vredestein cycling innovations. The Dutch brand will showcase its new flagship road tyre, theSuperpasso Pro, alongside an expandedAventura gravel range, at booth 12.1 D26 during the event from 2529 June in Frankfurt.Superpasso Pro: A New Era for Road PerformanceTheSuperpasso Promarks the beginning of a new generation of high-performance road tyres from Vredestein. Designed in Europe and tested by the UCI Continental team BEAT Cycling Club, the tyre is engineered for both elite racers and serious amateurs. It features advancedTriCompandActive Controltechnologies, combining a harder centre compound for speed and durability with a softer shoulder for enhanced cornering grip.A unique bridged tread design replaces the traditional centre seam, reducing weight and improving responsiveness. The tyre is available in 700x25C, 700x28C, and 700x32C sizes, with both tubeless-ready and tube-type options. A four-season variant is expected later this year.Gravel Range Grows with New Sizes and ModelsResponding to the surging popularity of gravel cycling, Vredestein has expanded itsAventuraline with new 50mm options across all models. The range now includes:Aventura Balanced for speed and grip on light to rugged gravel.Aventura Seta The fastest in the line-up, ideal for mixed-surface endurance rides.Aventura Grezzo Built for tough terrain and all-weather conditions.All models are tubeless-ready and come in black or transparent sidewall designs. Sizes range from 700x38C to 700x50C and 650x50B, catering to a wide variety of gravel riders.A Vision for InnovationNic Knippers, Divisional Head of Two Wheel Tyres at Apollo Tyres, commented:The launch of the Superpasso Pro marks a major step forward in our commitment to innovation and high-performance cycling. Like our expanded gravel range, it reflects our focus on meeting the evolving needs of riders worldwide.Eurobike 2025 offers Apollo Tyres a platform to connect with the cycling community, gather feedback, and explore future product concepts with OEM partners.For more information, visit Vredestein.com

Podcast Series to Feature Geraint Thomas, Chris Froome, Mark Cavendish, and MoreCycling fans are in for a treat this summer as Sir Bradley Wiggins, Britains first Tour de France champion and one of the most decorated Olympians in history, returns to the spotlight with the launch of his brand-new podcast, Sir Bradley Wiggins Caf Aficionado.The show, produced by Atomized Studios and hosted on the Sport Social Podcast Network, will offer a rich mix of storytelling, personal insight, and in-depth conversation with some of the sports biggest names. Wiggins is joined by long-time friend, broadcaster, and cycling journalist Graham Willgoss, as the pair dive into the history and mythology of cyclings greatest road races: the Tour de France, Giro dItalia, and Vuelta a Espaa.The first two episodes drop on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, just days before the Tour de France rolls out from Lille. They feature in-depth chats with 2018 Tour winner Geraint Thomas and veteran journalist Chris Sidwells, who pays tribute to his late uncle, Tom Simpson Britains first road world champion who tragically died on Mont Ventoux in 1967.This podcast is like stopping off at your favourite cycling caf, said Willgoss. You get stories, a few laughs, and youre sat with some of the most iconic names in the sport.Wiggins, now embracing life off the bike as a broadcaster and speaker, says the project has helped him reconnect with the sport that defined him:Im re-discovering my love for cycling and excited to unearth stories weve never heard before. This show gives us the chance to hear from the greats in a way that feels honest and fun.The lineup for future episodes includes legends such as Chris Froome, Mark Cavendish, and Pippa York, promising an entertaining and educational ride through the golden eras and pivotal moments of road racing. New episodes will be released weekly starting Tuesday, July 1.Described as a podcast you can return to again and again, Sir Bradley Wiggins Caf Aficionado is positioned as a destination for both seasoned fans and curious newcomers.Bradley Wiggins is a giant of British sport, said Stefan Doyle, Head of Sport Social Podcast Network. To have him bring his voice and vision to our platform is a huge moment.Listeners can catch the preview episode now on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, and follow the podcast on social media via @SirBradsCafe on Instagram and YouTube.

HERO Sdtirol Dolomites 2025: A Thrilling Four-Day Celebration of Mountain BikingThe 15th edition of the HERO Sdtirol Dolomites wrapped up in spectacular fashion, cementing its reputation as one of the most iconic events in the mountain biking world. Held in the breathtaking setting of the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the event drew thousands of fans and elite athletes from across the globe for four adrenaline-filled days.The festivities began on Thursday, 12 June, with the opening of the HERO/ZERO Village and the start of the HERO Bike Festival. Cyclists collected their race numbers at Stadio Pranives, while visitors explored the latest in biking technology and gear from top brand partners. The Sdtirol Sustainability Lounge also opened its doors, offering tastings of local delicacies like Speck, cheese, and fine wines, while promoting environmental awareness.Thursday evening featured the HERO Charity Night at the Medal Plaza in Selva Val Gardena. The event spotlighted Paralympic athletes from the Obiettivo 3 project and included a breathtaking performance by escape artist Andrew Basso, who wowed the crowd with his signature underwater escape act.On Friday, the excitement continued with a press conference introducing the top contenders for the third round of the 2025 HERO UCI Cross-country Marathon World Cup. Among the favourites were Rosa Van Doorn (Netherlands) and Wout Alleman (Belgium), both leading the overall rankings for team Buff-Megamo. They were joined by 2024 champion Vera Looser (Namibia), eight-time HERO winner Leo Paez (Colombia), local star Sandra Mairhofer, and European Marathon Champion Andreas Seewald.Saturday morning saw the main event kick off at 7:10 AM. The womens 60-km race concluded with the winner crossing the finish line in Piazza Nives by 10:45 AM, followed by the mens 86-km race winner an hour later. The day culminated in the grand award ceremony at the Medal Plaza, celebrating the champions of this grueling yet exhilarating competition.The weekend concluded on a high note with Sundays HEROE Gourmet tour. Participants rode e-mountain bikes across the scenic Seiser Alm, Europes largest alpine plateau, stopping at traditional huts to savour South Tyrolean cuisine.For more details and full race results, visitwww.heroucimarathonworldcup.com.