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Speedplay Pedals Long Term Review

I started using Speedplay pedals back in 2006. I wrote a review in 2008 of the pedals; this is an updated review after owning three pairs for several years. Summary Speedplay pedals are very good to ride on. They took a little bit of getting used to (like floating on ice is common feeling), but […]

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Eastpak Kruizer Velow Messenger Bag Review

A review of  the Eastpak Kruiser Messenger Bag. Usually, when commuting I use panniers. I don’t like cycling for long distances with a messenger bag. But, despite preferring panniers, I do often end up using a bag like this. So I was happy to test for the past few weeks. It fits around the body […]

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Best Mini Pumps

A mini pump is an essential thing to carry on any ride. I have a sign by my front door – ‘Don’t forget pump’. So often I have started a cycle ride only to realise I forgot pump and rather than risk being stranded in the middle of Oxfordshire have returned to pick up a […]

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Best Ways to Save Weight on A Bike

Best Ways to Save Weight on A Bike

When I was developing my hill climbing bike, I used to spend hours working out the best way to save weight on a bike. I developed a system for calculating the cost per gram saved. Among the best things to change was buying a lightweight saddle and seat post. This offered the best way to […]

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Split Tyre

10 Tips for Avoiding Punctures

This Continental 4000- split and punctured on a ride- I had to put new inner tube and ride home like this! If I had been clever, I would have founded strong leaf to improvise some protection between tyre and inner tube. But, I only thought of that after I luckily got home. If I listed […]

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time trial

How to Improve Aerodynamics Cycling

These are a few simple ways to increase the aerodynamics of your riding position. They are primarily intended for time trials, although, some may also be appropriate for road racing as well. Improving aerodynamics can make huge improvements to your times, as I found out after visiting wind tunnel. Oversocks – Oversocks are a lycra […]

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Profile Sonic CSX Carbon Aero Bars

Profile Sonic CSX Carbon Aero Bars

Review of Profile Sonic CSX Carbon Aero Bars. Very lightweight, highly adjustable, sleak and looks great.

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How To Fit a Bike Helmet

The great debate about cycling helmets is not likely to disappear. But, when cycling around Oxford, I am often surprised to see a lot of people who wear a helmet, fail to wear it properly. If you do make the effort to wear a helmet you might as well wear it properly. Incorrect Fitting of […]

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GPS Cycle Computers

A GPS can give a cyclist much more information about his ride and also suggest routes. For those long distance touring it can be much easier than carrying innumerable maps around. If you’ve ever tried reading a map, whilst cycling at same time, you will know benefit of a GPS. As well as providing directions, […]

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worn chain

How Often to Change the Chain on a bike?

Different methods for knowing when you need to change the chain on your bike.   1. Finger Test A simple test  is to use your finger and try to lift the chain away from the chainring. If the chain can be pushed quite a bit away from the chainring (like above), this is a sign […]

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Best Mudguards for Road Bike

Best Mudguards for Road Bike

I got my first mudguards when I joined a cycling club (Otley CC). I soon learnt that on winter training rides, mudguards were an absolute essential for club riding. 1 or 2 times riding at the back of the pack and you soon get the idea. The first mudguards I got were the traditional mudguard […]

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