• Commuting relatively short distances and getting round town.
• Light touring e.g. for the non serious cycle tourer, but who wants to enjoy cycling for a small amount
• Cycling on canal paths

The main attraction of a hybrid bike is that they offer good comfort and all round performance for a low price. They tend to have thinner wheels than mountain bikes, meaning that they are quicker on roads – where hybrid bikes are mainly used. Hybrid bikes usually come with upto 27 gears offering a wide range of choice. In practise most people wouldn’t use such a wide range of gears, you would probably be fine with less. However, hybrid bikes try to offer the best compromise between fast road bikes and the greater comfort and stability of a MTB. The best hybrid bike depends on your specific purpose.

1. Some off Road use – consider GT Transeo with suspension and Mountain bike style tyres
2. Enjoyable Ride – Consider Dawes Diploma or Pashley Sovereign. Slow and heavy but great fun and stately to ride. Bit more expensive but more class and distinction.
3. Simplicity – consider a single speed such as Charge Plug / Charge Sink
4. Best value all Round – hard to beat the big brand names like Trek FX hybrids.

Best Hybrid Bikes

Viva Bellissimo 7

stylish hybrid

The Viva Bellissimo 7 is more geared towards the chic end of the hybrid market. It comes with a 7 speed hub gear. This is a little heavier than standard dereailleur and sprockets. However, it looks really classy and the classic steel frame is great fun to ride. If you prefer you can also get the Viva Bellissimo in single speed.

• Review of Viva Bellissimo | Viva Bikes at Evans Cycles

Viva Urban

The Viva Urban is a classy 7 speed hub geared bike. This will suit someone looking for a stylish bike which is aesthetically pleasing. It is also low maintenance and easy to ride. You pay more for the style factor. But, it is a good combination of style and practicality. If you’re willing to save up for your dream hybrid, this could be a good choice.

• Review: Viva Urban deluxe

GT Transeo

GT Transeo is geared more towards the MTB spectrum of hybrid bikes. It comes with chunky 700*40c tyres and tough reinforced aluminium frame. All models have 24 gears and ability to switch suspension mech on and off. There are many different varieties of GT Transeo. At the top of the range a GT Transeo 1.0 costs £800 and comes with disc brakes. For half the price, you can get a GT Transeo 4.0 for £400 which comes with V Brakes and Shimano Acera. This is a great hybrid if you are looking for greater flexibility in going off road.

• See review: GT Transeo 3.0 V Brake

Giant Roam 4

The Giant Roam 4 is a classic good value hybrid bike. Giant have a very good reputation and have produced a hybrid bike at £349. This feels like a ‘middle of the road’ hybrid bike. With 40mm tyres it is very stable and comfortable to ride. It’s not the quickest hybrid bike, but it gives a real feeling of solidity. £349 is a good price for a hybrid bike. With lower end Shimano gears, it’s fine for offering any gear choice you may need. Will last longer than some cheap hybrids.

• Frame: ALUXX aluminium. -Fork: Suntour SR NEX 4110
• Shimano EF51 21 speed
• Tyres: Kenda Kwick 700 x 40mm

Pashley Sovereign

This is not the cheapest hybrid, also it is not the fastest hybrid. However, it is a wonderful bike. I would recommend for those looking for the real bike experience. It is a little on the heavy side, and you won’t be racing away from the traffic lights. But, it will last for years and it looks like a work of art.

• See review: Pashley Sovereign

Specialised Sirius

Specialized Sirrus

£349. The specialised Sirius offers quite a lot for less than £350. The ride is good. I like the straight steel forks which give a more comfortable ride over bumpy/pothole roads. At 12Kg, it’s not the lightest machine on the road, but at this price you can’t expect everything. There are some good features such as the Specialised all condition tyres (excellent for commuting and puncture protection) The triple chainring on the front gives a wide range of 21 gears. This is a bike that will be able to do most things from simple commute to steady weekend ride. The straight handlebars give a comfortable ride. If you were wanting to race away, you might miss the drop handlebars but it is still reasonably fast for a commuting bike. It is not the most exciting looking bike. Basically black with upwardly sloping top tube. But, it’s also not so flash you have to worry about spending £100 on locks when you leave it in town.

• Specialized Sirius at Evans Cycles

Trek FX Hybrid Bike

Trek offer quite a wide range of hybrid bikes with a close range of models. The Trek 7.0 retails at just over £300. It includes the combination of FX Alpha white Aluminium frame and a straight steel fork.  This is an excellent all rounder offering good value for money and gives everything most commuters would be looking for in a relatively short commute or a bit of leisure riding. Comes with upright riding position and 700cc wheels, so is quite speedy for a hybrid bike. Comes in a stylish metallic black finish. However, it does end up looking like the Specialised Sirius and many other Hybrid bikes on the market.

There are several upgrades available, for example, the Trek 7.1  FX at an extra £60. The Trek 7.3 with Disc brake retails at just over £500

For every version, there is a also a women’s version of bikes. The economies of scale Trek have enable them to offer one of most comprehensive range of hybrid bikes, and this makes it attractive. Remember it is much cheaper to get the best components on a bike when buying rather than upgrading at a later stage.

• Full Review of Trek 7.1 FX  Hybrid Bike (£375 for 2013 model) – Good all rounder, especially if just for road use.
• Trek FX Hybrid Bikes at Evans Cycles

Dawes Diploma

Dawes Diploma

Similar price to the Dawes Harlem but more stylish evoking a classic appeal. In both men and female models. Dawes Diploma

The Dawes Diploma is a hybrid bike more towards the classic ‘retro’ style. This is a beautiful and stylish bike to ride around town. It is a built for a comfortable relaxed ride. The higher handlebars make it easy to handle.  It feels considerably heavier than a lighter hybrid bike. It weighs at over 17kg. However, it comes with more extras such as mudguard and chain guard.

Note: the Dawes Diploma comes in either men or female version. The women’s version (featured above) has step through top tube for ease of using skirt. The men’s version has flat top tube. Dawes Diploma at Evans Cycles

Bootleg Hoy Hoy Rats

- Over £500. Based on Columbus tubing and Shimano bar sifters groupset. This is a more sporty hybrid bike, built for a quick commute. Bootleg Hoy Hoy Rats

Best Value Hybrid Bikes under £400

Giant Escape N7

The Giant Escape N7 is around £330. The Giant is a solid Aluminium frame, with 7 gears mounted on the handlebars. It’s tyres are chosen for the road, but handlebars are straight like a mountain bike. Giant Escape N7 -

Focus Marakas

- Under £250. The Focus Marakas is built around a 6061 Aluminium frame with front suspension forks for more comfortable ride. Only £220 at Wiggle This is very good value for a decent aluminium frame bike. At this price, there is really no excuse for not getting a bike. A few weeks and you will have saved petrol and parking money. It is interesting how they can get the bike so cheap given the quality of a 6061 aluminium frame.

Best Hybrid Bikes Under £200

For under £200, you will struggle to get much choice. Your best bet may be to look at the second hand market. Also, if you visit a discount cycle shop like Cycle King, you will find a couple of Ammaco bikes for under £150. They are reasonable, but as you can imagine the components are cheap. You are more likely to puncture and spend more time on maintenance, especially the brakes. They are big sellers, and I see many around Oxford. But, you get what you pay for.

See Review of Ammaco Dresden (around £150 from Cycle King)

Hybrid Bikes

• Hybrid Bikes at Wiggle
• Hybrid Bike at Evans

Conclusion

Hybrid Bikes are the most popular form of bikes. They are adaptable and easy to ride. Their popularity also means they are relatively cheaper because firms can benefit from economies of scale. For example, if you went for a single speed bike, you would end up paying more for less. (though single speeds will suit some types of cyclists)

But, within Hybrid Bikes there are quite a few ranges. You will want to choose which is more important looks v comfort v speed. For example, the most utilitarian hybrid bike would be the Specialised Sirius or Trek FX series – these are closer to standard road bikes.

A Dawes Diploma, Viva Bellissimo and Pashley offer a more stylish and elegant bike that is slower to cycle.

Also your local bike shop will have its own selection of hybrid bikes, it is worth visiting and testing out the bikes in person. You will save a little buying on internet, and the bikes arrive very quickly from Evans. However, buying locally gives advantage of personal contact and a reference point to return bike for quick check-up.

Related Bicycles

• Best Commuting Bike
• Single Speed Bikes

• Wires can scrap away at the paint on the bike.
• Wires can make it awkward if you need to make adjustments to handlebars e.t.c
• They are more prone to breaking.
• Extra wires can add small aerodynamic drag to bike.

Earlier wireless models used to be really bulky and big, but in past few years, improved models have reduced size and improved performance. I use a Cateye Strada and new model is big improvement over earlier ones.

Models of Wireless Cycle Computer

Cateye Strada Wireless Cycle Computer

The 8 function cycle computer includes these functions
# Current speed
# Maximum speed
# Average speed
# Total distance (odometer)
# Trip distance
# Auto start/stop
# Trip time (elapsed time)
# 12/24 hour clock

Cateye Strada wireless at £44.99

The Wireless Cateye Strada has recently been increased in price quite a bit. However, the latest model is really quite a big improvement on previous model. Cateye have made a computer that is genuinely waterproof (they keep buttons underneath computer in a clever design). Also, the sleek and slender design of both computer and magnet detector make it more visually appealing and more aerodynamic. I have been very pleased with my Cateye Strada (especially as you can choose colours to fit your own road bike) It is very reliable and have not had any problems over past 18 months of using it. The new models are a big improvement on the older versions. The new 2012/13 models I’ve found to be more reliable than some Cateye computers I bought several years ago.

Polar CS100 Wireless Heart Rate and Cycle Computer

The Polar computer combines its heart rate monitor technology with traditional cycle computer. Enabling you to combine the heart rate monitor and computer in one, saves space on your handlebars and integrates the two functions.

I tested this over a period of a few weeks, and enjoyed using. It has an impressive range of stats from cadence, to heart rate, speed, distance. Just about anything you can need. It was a shame I had to give back at end of testing period. You can see a more detailed review of CS100 at Polar CS100 Review

Polar Heart Rate Monitor at £63.99

Ciclosport CM 8.2

offers 32 functions with just 3 buttons

Topeak 150 Wireless Computer wireless heart rate monitor at £31.99

Knog Nerd 9 or 12 Function Wireless computer

Knog Nerd 9
The Knog Nerd 9 is not the best value cycle computer – it costs £48. But, it is usually the easiest to set up. (However, I did have difficulty on a road bike with unusual shaped forks) It really is ‘wireless’ because it’s innovative design means that you don’t need any wires, ties or screwdrivers to fix. It is so easy to set up you can easily transfer between bikes. It also looks great and comes in range of three different bright colours. See full review of Knog Nerd 9 -  The Knog Nerd 12 includes a few extra functions – (automatic scanning of all displays, relative speed gauge) and is a little more expensive. If you are looking for something a bit different, the Knog is good. It would make a great Christmas gift for a keen cyclist.

• Knog 12 function at Wiggle

 Cateye Velo Wireless

The Cateye Velo comes with basic functions at a good value price of £26.99. It is one of the cheapest wireless computers. Like other wireless models it is a bit on the bulky side. Though there is also the Cateye Velo Micro, who are willing to pay an extra £9 for smaller model. It does everything you want from a computer, distance, time, average speed, auto stop start. Cateye Velo wireless £26.99

Garmin Edge 200 / 500

The Garmin Edge really takes things to the next level. Rather than £20-£30. You are paying £120 – £200 (depending on the model). However, I decided to purchase a Garmin 500, and never regretted it. The Garmin edge gives you every bit of statistics analysis you could want. Elevation, gradient of the climb, total amount of climbing. Then you can easily upload to Garmin or Strava  to check how you got on the ride. It is wonderfully designed and looks sleak on your bike (and only weighs 65 grams). It is also very easy to fix. Needing no tools at all!

It needs recharging more frequently after a couple of long rides. There have been times when unwittingly the power was left on leaving it empty at the start of the ride. But, on the plus side, you don’t have to buy batteries.

There are many different models of Garmin. If you want you can integrate with a heart rate monitor and cadence sensor. I was happy enough with speed, elevation and basic functions. It is also quite customisable. You can decide what functions you put on the different screens. If you really like cycle computers, something like the Garmin edge is definitely a good buy

• Full Review of Garmin Edge 500
• Garmin Edge 500 £159.00at Wiggle

Related

• Best value cycling computers
• Cycle Computers at Wiggle
• Computers at Chain Reaction Cycles

Titanium gives a very smooth ride. It has excellent properties for damping a bumpy ride. This is noticeable over an aluminium frame, which gives a ‘harsher’ feel. If you want to enjoy a wonderfully smooth day in the saddle, titanium is very good. The smoothness of the ride comes at little loss in performance. Titanium is much more rigid and stiff than a steel alternative. If you enjoy descending at speed, the Enigma frame is pretty solid and true at top speeds. There is no flex and will be attractive for the ‘well-built’ kind of riders. This is the attraction of Titanium – the smoothness of steel with the performance of aluminium. People often assume carbon fibre is always the best material. But, a good titanium frame gives carbon a good run for its money.

Enigma Echo

• Compact geometry 9 degree slope
• Double butted EST tubeset
• Integrated head tube
• English threaded BB
• 31.6mm seat post size
• Bright brushed finish as standard
• Frameset weight from 1250 grams – £1269.00

One of the most popular framesets, it is marketed for the audax, road racing and sportive market. If you want to do some light touring you can use some clip on mudguards and even the clip on panniers. It isn’t the lightest at 1.2Kg, but if you choose very lightweight components to go with frame, you could get close to 7Kg for overall bike. but gives a great overall ride.

The Enigma Etape

The Etape is similar to the Enigma Echo. It has a slightly slacker head angle 72 vs 73. This gives a slightly more comfortable ride, but is less powerful when sprinting or getting up to speed. It has longer chain stays which give more room for clearance for a rack and panniers.

• Compact geometry 9 degree slope
• Double butted EST tubeset
• Integrated head tube
• 27.2mm seat post size
• 32mm band on front changer
• Maxed out clearances for short reach brakes
• Fittings for guards and rack
• Bright brushed finish as standard
• Weight from 1330 grams

An older Omega Enigma Bike

Still going strong after several years. Titanium bikes last very well, and don’t rust like steel!

Related

• Titanium Bikes

For commuting this kind of bike is the best all rounder. It offers practicality, good value and reliability. Ridgeback’s Rapide range is a competitive option for a very competitive market. The Meteor is in the sub £400 range and comes equipped with panniers and mudguards for an all year round commuting bike.

At nearly 14Kg, the Ridgeback Meteor is not light. Despite a 6061 Aluminimum frame, the bike collects weight through having thick chunky tyres, panniers and alloy suspension.

This means it isn’t the raciest commuting bike, but what it loses in raw speed it gains in stability and reliability. The thick chunky Continental Sport tyres 37c  absorb potholes and rough road surfaces pretty well. In addition, there is front suspension to make a really quite comfortable ride. In fact many town commutes may not need so much suspension and you may end up turning it off. Good for the canal path, but a bit over the top for most of the commuting I do.

With a heavier weight, the meteor isn’t the most responsive bike, but there are plenty of gear choices. The lowest gear of 28*32 will get you up pretty much anything. There’s no need to fear running out of gears. But, you may find this number of gears much more than you need.

The bike looks smart – matte black with neat touches. There are no colour alternatives, so if you don’t like Matt Black you’ll have to look elsewhere.

Reliability over Time

I haven’t had chance to test over time. But, the components should last reasonably well. A tough aluminium frame with standard Shimano gears and chain. The enclosed bottom bracket and sealed headset will minimise maintenance. Though the triple chainring combination will be a source of maintenance needs.

Like many hybrid bikes of this spec, it comes with Tetkro 836L brakes. These do the job, but they are not overwhelming. I guess the assumption is that with a Ridgeback Meteor, you won’t be racing into corners.

The City Comfort saddle is more impressive. The padding is generous and the size good. It really emphasises the strength of this bike is comfort.

Strengths

• Good value at £400
• Easily Adjustable stem and seat gives range of options.
• Will last well
• Comfortable ride. Good at absorbing uneven surfaces
• Comes with essentials for commuting
• It can also double up as a cheap / introductory touring bike. – You could easily take it on cycle paths around the country to get a feel for cycle rides beyond the usual commute

Weaknesses

• Weight makes it a bit on the slow side.
• Width of tyres makes it quite slow

Who will Bike suit?

This bike is really aimed at the commuter who wishes to have a nice stable, comfortable ride. It would be geared at someone not overly concerned at speed.

Alternatives

• Ridgeback Velocity – Very similar to Meteor without panniers and mudguards, 3lbs lighters
• Trek FX hybrid series – very close to the Ridgeback series
• Best Hybrid Bikes
• Best commuting bikes

Manufacturers Specifications

Color – Matte Black

Sizes- 15, 17, 19, 21, 23 in

Frame – 6061 Heat treated Aluminium

Fork -Cro Moly

Headset- Sealed

Hubs -Shimano RM30 rear

Rims -Alex ACE-18 36h

Spokes – Stainless steel

Tyres – Continental Contact 700 x 37c

Brakes -Tektro 836AL

Brake Levers – Shimano

Handlebar – 6061 Aluminium Lo-rise

Stem – Alloy multi position

Grips -Triple Density Lock-on

Saddle – City Comfort 2

Seatpost -Alloy Suspension 27.2mm

Shifters -Shimano EZFire

Rear Derailleur – Shimano Acera

Chainset – Shimano Altus 48/38/28

Bottom Bracket – Cartridge

Chain – HG31

Freewheel – Shimano Cassette 11-32 8sp

Pedals – Nylon Street

Front Derailleur = Shimano TX51

Weight 30.1 lbs (13.6Kg)

Related

• Ridgeback Meteor 2012 at Evans Cycles – £399
• Ridgeback Hybrid Bikes at Evans Cycles
• Ridgeback Meteor at Ridgeback

The Air time trial frame includes the following features:

Wind tunnel tested to gain maximum benefit from aerodynamics. Boardman bikes say it has undergone Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)

In words of Chris Boardman:

“FEA, CFD, Pro Team testing and 20 years of experience have all been distilled in this totally performance-focused product. There isn’t a single square centimetre of the AiR/TT that doesn’t have a performance rationale behind it.”

Fairly big chainstays which help to maintain strenth and power transfer.

Wheels are own brand CBOardman Carbon tubulars. Tubs allow weight saving in the wheels of 200grams. Most people want to race on tubulars because of lower weight and better performance. The downside of tubulars is that when you puncture, generally it means buying a new tub – which can be expensive. Though for training rides, there’s no reason you can switch to clincher wheels.

Even seat tube clamp is aero.

Strong chainstay

Rear profile.

Full SRAM Red Groupset

Rear brakes taken out of the air flow. This is great for everyone except the bike mechanic. – Warning brakes are a lot more fiddly in this position.

Carbon Vision Bars with low profile

Front brakes hidden in fork

SRAM rear cassette. Internal routing cables.

Fizik saddle

Review of Chris Boardman Air TT 9.4

The time trial frameset is very good and excellent valu value. It is low weight, aerodynamic and has feeling of rigidity and strength – also important.

With brakes hidden from airflow, it joins a new generation of time trial bikes which have really sought to remove everything possible from wind. The straight lines may look unspectacular, though Boardman says they are straight because that is simply the fastest.

To ride it feels very good, it didn’t feel much difference to my Trek Equinox 9.9 SL.

You might arguably get greater ridigidy from some other framesets like Cervelo P5, but this is a really top level time trial frameset which offers a range of different options from entry level 9.0 to this version, 9.4 and beyond.

The 9.4 is very well equipped with SRAM Red. A discwheel will be quicker in most conditions. So it will be one upgrade to save up for later. But, this is a really high level entry bike level and excellent value. At  £3,999 it’s well kitted out given the SRAM red is top of the range.

At 8.2Kg it is fairly competitive for a time trial bike. It will be good in hilly time trials, though still above UCI legal limit of 6.8Kg.

Bike Specs

Frame: AiR/TT Aerodynamic ultralight UD carbon fibre monocoque, BB30, tapered steerer, internal cable routing

FORK: AiR/TT Aerodynamic ultralight UD full carbon, integrated brake

GEARING: -SRAM Red, R2C shifters

BRAKES: -SRAM Red

CHAINSET: -SRAM Red

WHEELS: – cboardman full Carbon aero tubular 100mm or 50mm front, 100mm rear

FINISHING KIT: – FSA Carbon / cboardman Carbon

Weight* 18.2lbs 8.2Kg.

Video of Chris Boardman Air TT

Related

• Chris Boardman Bikes
• Time trial Bikes

Buying Chris Boardman Air TT Bikes

• Bike Science Boardman bikes
• Boardman bikes at Echelon Cycles
• See C.Boardman Bikes at Halfords (time trial bikes not available in stock)
• Review of AIr TT at Bike Radar

Specialized S Works Time trial bike

Specialized Shiv  Time trial bike. Used by Tony Martin in winning World Time Trial Championship 2011.

The 2012 model has been redesigned to fully comply with UCI regulations. This involves

• Saddle must be 5cm behind the bottom bracket
• Aero seat tube complies to 3:1 aspect
• Wings on downtube have been removed compared to earlier models.

Features of Shiv Module

• FRAME    Specialized FACT 11r carbon, UCI-legal aero tube shapes.
• FORK    S-Works FACT carbon, full-monocoque, UCI-legal
• HEADSET    1″ upper and 1-1/8″ lower Cr-Mo cartridge bearings
• STEM    S-Works Shiv TT Aero
• HANDLEBARS    S-Works Shiv TT carbon Aerobar
• FRONT BRAKE    S-Works aero integrated
• REAR BRAKE    S-Works aero integrated
• BRAKE LEVERS    Tektro Shiv brake levers, alloy w/ adjuster
• CRANKSET    S-Works FACT carbon
• CHAINRINGS    53/39 TT
• BOTTOM BRACKET    OS integrated, ceramic bearings
• Colour – black (no options)

Shiv Module comes with handlebars, pads and aero extensions, brakes, carbon crankset (53×39), an integrated bottom bracket with ceramic bearings, and an aero seatpost.

You will need to fit a chain, cassette, shifters and derailleurs, a saddle and wheels.

Weight

With disc wheel and high end SRAM groupset, the bike will come in at just under 8KG, which is quite competitive for a top end time trial bike.

Integrated stem and header tube

Tribars and arm rests

Front brake

Rear brakes are hidden in chainstay

Video of Specialized Shiv 3

Specialized Shiv TT video by Specialized.

Review of Specialized Shiv 3 at Tour of California

Overall

The Specialized Shiv has a great pedigree and some of the most impressive palmeres of time trial bikes on the market. It claims to have the stiffness and rideability of a road bike, and testing suggests road handling is very good. Also, it is built to maximise power transfer, which is as important as weight and aerodynamic shape.

Triathletes may be dissappointed that the UCI regulations have limited geometry shape and 3:1 aspect ruling. Also, like many modern time trial bikes, bike fit is increasingly fiddly and complicated. Hopefully, you won’t have to refit cables and brakes too often.

But, if you are looking for a light and superfast time trial bike, you would find it difficult to do better than the Specialized Shiv 3. It has made significant gains on earlier Specialized models. Even if you’re not doing UCI races, its adherence to UCI rules won’t compromise speed significantly. There is still room for adjustability of saddle to non-UCI positions.

As long as you like black, you will enjoy the admiring glances that the Shiv will encourage. It looks as aerodynamic and has a very good smooth finish.
Sizes

Comes in 5 different sizes enabling fit for everyone from 5′ 3″ to 6’3″
Small 5′ 3″ – 5′ 6″ 160cm – 168
Medium 5′ 6″ – 5′ 9″ 168 – 175
Large 5′ 9″ – 6′ 0″ 175 – 183
X-Large 6′ 0″ – 6′ 3″ 183 – 191cm

Related
Specialized Shiv tech features at Specialized

Time trial bikes

Specialized Shiv TT and Triathlon bikes at Evans Cycles

Firstly, it is the only product Orbana has. The energy powder is based upon

• Maltodextrin 61%
• Fructose 24%
• Dextrose 6%
• Amino acids Leucine, Isoleucine, and Valine
• 137mg of sodium and 135mg of potassium – key electrolytes
• Ratio of 10:1 of carbs to protein.
• 2:1 of maltodextrin to fructose

Apart from that it has some amino acids, electrolytes and natural flavourings. It is free from stimulants and is approved by the Informed-Choice programme that tests for banned substances to protect athletes.

This ratio of Maltodextrin and fructose is increasingly favoured by other energy drink providers. It aims to provide a longer lasting energy release and avoid sugar spikes. In theory, maltodextrin is a complex carbohydrate, but it also has a high GI index – which means quick release of sugar. Fructose is a lower GI index.

Also some research indicates that taking 2 energy sources helps maximise carbohydrate intake.

I’ve always found that maltodextrin does raise blood sugar levels, so I start taking when I begin my warm up 20-40 minutes before exercise.

Review of Orbana

The taste is different to many other energy drinks, it is much less sweet and has a sharper citric flavour, though it is relatively muted. You definitely don’t feel like you’re drinking a typical energy drink.

Taste is a very personal thing, and it is OK. I can’t say I would drink it off the bike, but then I could say the same for any energy drink.

I took a bottle of Orbana during 90 mile ride in the chilterns and my energy levels seemed fine. I also did quite well in the 25 mile TT (finished 2nd). However, I couldn’t notice any discernible difference between this energy drink and others that I’ve chosen. It’s good that there are some protein with carbohydrates, for endurance athletes, this small amount of protein helps to maximise energy uptake.

The main thing is taste and use of natural ingredients.

Overall, I would be happy to recommend Orbana. It’s a good product with thoughtful use of trace ingredients. However, at the end of the day all energy drinks are based on similar concept of giving energy in powder form.

• Orbana box of energy sachets at Wiggle
• Orbana energy powder at Wiggle
• Orbana.com
• Best energy drinks

Zipp 404 weight pair Tubular front 568g – rear 696g - 1266 grams

Why Do People Say Weight of Your Wheels Counts Double?

It is to do with acceleration and the fact the top of your wheel travels twice as fast as your bicycle. Thus to accelerate, the energy taken to push the wheel is greater than for the bike. Once you have maintained a constant speed, then the weight of your bike and wheels count for the same. But, if you slow down and then accelerate, the energy to move the mass of your wheels is greater than for the bike.

Therefore, a secret of climbing is to try and maintain constant speed and effort. Keep the action smooth (an advantage to maintaining a high cadence and smooth pedalling power). If you have a twisting climb of varying gradients then the effort to move your wheels will be proportionately greater.

Lightest Wheels:

AX-Lightness Premium Road

My front wheel is based on a Tune Mig 45 20 hole. Built onto AX-Lightness SRT 22 20 Hole rim superspokes.

This comes in at 365 grams (actual)

The light carbon rims are responsible for extremely low acceleration values so they will not waste even the tiniest bit of energy on uphill climbs; the stable rims have a high spoke tension of 1300 N also ensure high stiffness.

SRT (spoke reinforcement technology) and SBS (seamless brake surface).

Very light, and still quite stiff. Accelerate marvellously up inclines. Handle very well.

The braking surfaces is integrated into the rim of the wheel, there is no separate braking surface. Though braking is fine.

Zipp 202

Zipp 202

• Zipp 202 front 477 grams -(front – £728)
• Zipp 202 rear 604 grams total: (rear – £924)
• Total Zipp 202 1,081 grams
• Zipp 202 pair at Chain Reaction Cycles (764 + 944)
• Zipp 202 at Evans Cycles ( 679 + 839)

Zipp 202 were actually used in Paris Roubaix for 4th place finisher. Used also by Carlos Sastre in high mountains during his Tour win.

I bought a Zipp 202 rear for £750 in January. when on special offer at Wiggle. If you can be patient, keep an eye on price and wait for a sale to get wheels at discount. It is worth the wait!

Very fast and light weight. Good for hilly time trials.

Lightweight Clinchers

Clincher wheels tend to be slightly heavier with tyres and inner tubes and bigger rims. However, recent developments, have helped reduce weight of clincher wheels. Quite a few now come with carbon rims to help reduce weight.

The Mavic Kysriums are relatively good value.

See: Review: Mavic Kysriums SL and SLR

Lightweight Wheels

Lightweight Ventoux – 999grams (link) $3,000 – $5,000 a pair

Campag Bora

• Campag Bora – 1,310 grams (deep section)

Campagnolo

• Campag Hyperon 1,231 grams

Shimano Dura Ace

• Shimano Dura Ace 7850 C24 1386 grams

Lightweight Clinchers

• Fulcrum XL Lightweight wheels 1245g pair £2,257

For £500, you can get a pretty decent commuting bike. Personally, I wouldn’t be keen to spend much more than £500 for a commuting bike. If you lock the bike up in town, there is an increased chance of theft, so with just a £500 you get more peace of mind than you would if you had spent over a £1,000

There is a great choice of commuting bikes for under £500. I would separate the choices into:

1. Classic / Retro Style Bikes – Look cool, great joy to have. Slow. heavier. Bit more expensive. Not great quality at less than £500.
2. Hybrid Bikes – best value. Most practical, most widely bought.
3. Mountain Bikes – Good for rough terrain like canal paths. Wider tyres are slower.
4. Road Bikes – Faster, but less stable than hybrid bikes. Useful for longer commutes.
5. Single Speed Bikes – Easy to maintain. Look cool. More expensive (not many under £500). Not good if you have lots of hills!

1. Classic Commuting Bikes

Dawes Diploma

If you are looking for a classic, stylish bike, consider a Dawes Diploma It looks like an old fashioned classic bike. It may not be fastest bike from A to B, but, it does the business and looks pretty cool too. One limitation is the 3 speed Sturmey archer, but, unless you live on a hilly route 3 speed should be sufficient.

For real style, why not have a look at the classic Dutch Gazelle. It has a real continental flavour and stands out with distinctive design and colour. But, difficult to source in the UK, more likely to find on ebay second hand.

• Pros of Classic Bikes – look good, fits in with ‘cycle chic’ appearance. Steady to ride
• Cons of classic bikes – are slower to ride, heavier. not great for long distances or up steep hills. More attractive to thieves than your common MTB.

Hybrid Bike

If you are more practically minded, you might like to buy a hybrid bike. This is a cross between a road bike and mountain bike. It also includes the ‘classic / Dutch style.’. It comes with road size wheels, but a thicker tread than ordinary racing bike wheels. In a sense hybrid bikes are simpler, cheaper versions of mountain bikes. They are fine for commuting, offering good stability and practicality. They can be easily adapted for panniers and mudguards. There is a great choice of hybrid bikes under £500. If you are willing to spend £300 you can bikes such as the Dawes Discovery. Hybrid bikes from under £150 will be made of cheap steel and will typically be quite heavy with more unreliable components.

Giant Escape

The Giant Escape is a popular commuting bike, coming in both men’s and ladies and different models. There are quite a few choices for less than £500. For £499, you can get the very good Giant Escape 1

Giant Escape 1

• Frame: ALUXX Aluminium
• Fork: Carbon composite, aluminium steerer
• Stem and seatpost: Giant Sport aluminium ahead
• Saddle: Giant Pure Sport
• groupset – Shimano acera and Alivio
• Brakes: Tektro linear pull
• Brake Levers: Tektro

• It’s amazing to get this quality aluminium frame, carbon fork and good quality Shimano equipment. A really good value hybrid bike

Pinnacle Neon Two

At £450, the Pinnacle Neon Two offers excellent features for a sub £500 bike. It is made by Evans cycles and so helps to offer low price. Not too flashy but gets you round town with a nice compromise of 24 gears, disc brakes and aluminium frame. See: Review of Pinnacle Neon Two

More hybrid bike recommendations

Cannondale Bad Boy

The Cannondale Bad Boy is a pretty sturdy hybrid bike – closer to the MTB spectrum than the road bike. It comes in a distinctive matt blank finish and has pretty sturdy Schwalbe Kojak Bad Boy Edition 559 x 50 tyres.
Hybrid bikes are mass produced and so give very good value. It depends how far you have to commute. The longer the commute, the more sporty you will want to buy. If you are commuting a couple of miles, a classic Dutch style bike will be great because speed isn’t so important.

Fold Up

In the foldup category, have a look at these foldup bikes. Foldup bikes are great for anyone who has to commute part of the way on the train. Look for bikes which are not too heavy and easy to dismantle and put up. Brompton are the best known type of foldups and they have options for under £500.Dahon are also a very good brand and the Dahon Vitesse is sold for £350 and is said to have a folding time of 15 seconds.

Hybrid Bikes at Evans

Mountain Bikes

Another option is a mountain bike. Under £500 the mountain bikes are more geared towards road use anyway. The Specialised hardrock Disc gives you disc brakes on an MTB for under £400. It is good value commuting bike; the wide wheels will slow you down, but great for snow or difficult conditions.

Single Speed

Increasingly popular is the single speed commuting bike. Single speed offer great simplicity and ease of maintenance. Even on hilly routes, some people just like riding single speed or fixed. The increased simplicity doesn’t mean cheaper. They are not mass produced so there are not the same economies of scale. The Charge Plug range offers cheapest introduction single speed. The Specialized Langster comes in at around £500. The Steel version comes in track frame and track handlebars which I didn’t particularly enjoy for commuting it was too aggressive riding position. However, the aluminium version is based on a more classic road bike.

• Single speed Bikes

Bikes Just Over £500

If you’re looking for a commuting bike with real style and elegance, check out this review of the Viva Urban de Luxe. It’s rrp was £699, but if you’re lucky you may catch it on offer for £499. 7 speed hub geared bike (easy to change, but a little heavier). This is a commuting bike for someone wanting a little style and good looks

Commuting Bikes Under £300 / 200

To get a commuting bike under £200 means you are getting some inferior components. The bike is likely to rust and break down more frequently. The tyres will be thin and more prone to punctures. If you can spend more than £200 do! But, if saving money is a real priority, I’ve reviewed these two cheap bikes.

Ammaco Dresden

£179. Plenty of gears on a cheap aluminium frame. But, tyres are weak and gears prone to becoming unresponsive. Will not last too long without needing to go back to shop. Review: of Ammaco Dresden

Raleigh Oxford

Another popular bike here in Oxford. You see quite a few with substantial amounts of rust. Pretty slow to cycle, not the best experience. Surprised Raleigh put its name to it. Review: Raleigh Oxford

Ridgeback Motion

Frame:6061 Heat treated Aluminium
Fork:Hi Ten SteelGears:
Shifters: Shimano EZFire, Front Mech: Shimano TX51, Rear Mech: Shimano TX55, Chainset: Shimano FC-M2171, Chainrings 48/38/28, Cassette: Shimano 14-28 tooth, 7-speed

At £269, this is a real step up from the Ammaco, the 6061 aluminium frame is always good value, and the lower end Shimano is adequate for light commuting. This is a good entry level commuting bike, without being too flimsy.

Rigdgeback Motion at Evans (both female and male versions)

My Commuting Bike

My commuting bike is a trek road bike. I bought second hand for £300. Brand new it would have cost £450. It is quite a practical commuting bike as it is relatively fast and has pannier rack, mudguards, lights. It’s only limitation is when we get a dusting of snow, the thin wheels are pretty thin for the the weather conditions.
Related Articles

• Tips for commuting by bike
• Hybrid Commuting bikes
• Best puncture proof bikes – one of the best upgrades for a commuting bike

Buying

• City and Commuting Bikes at Wiggle

When Choosing a time trial bike, the key criteria is the aerodynamics. It is wind resistance that makes the biggest difference in a time trial bike. Losing weight is good, but, especially for flat time trials, weight is much less important than aerodynamics. Therefore a beginner to time trials should not feel obliged to fork out several thousands of pounds. You will notice the biggest difference by getting a low pro frame and tribars which bring the arms closer in.

Tips for Getting Most Out of Time Trial Bikes

• Wind Tunnel Testing – finding best position on your time trial bike can save even more aerodrag and time
• How To Improve Aerodynamics – Some of best value ways to save aerodrag and get better aerodynamics
• Train on your time trial bike. Don’t just use your road bike for training and race on a time trial bike. You need to get used to the position of the time trial bike as you use different muscles.
• Weight isn’t everything. The biggest difference in time trials comes from reducing wind resistance. Don’t feel you have to save up a fortune to make a big difference. The time difference between a £6,000 TT bike and a £1,200 TT bike can be quite minimal. If you can reduce weight without compromising stiffness and power transfer – that is a definite help, especially for any hilly TT. But, get the low position first!

Specialized Shiv TT

The Specialized Shiv TT module has been redesigned by Specialized. It is exceptionally stiff and aerodynamic. It has one of most impressive palmeres of wins in procycling. It has been ridden to 4 world championships (including 2011, Tony Martin) Looks as fast as it is.

Full Review: Specialized Shiv 3 TT

Felt Time Trial Bikes

The Felt S22

Felt is a relatively new bike company, being founded in 1990. They were one of first companies to target the specific triathlon market and have a range of TT bikes from basic aluminium low pro to top of the range Carbon fibre costing over £6,000

Felt S22 – £1,200 Aluminium frame and carbon forks. SRAM apex.

With internal cable routing and aero seat post, this is a relatively low priced triathlon / time trial bike. The wheels offer scope for a later upgrade. It will appear to a novice time triallist who doesn’t want to break the bank.

The Felt B12 is almost double the price at £2,499, but offers a considerable upgrade. It includes Shimano Dura Ace gear shifters and FSA bottom bracket. It has the£Felt TT/Tri UHC Performance MMC which is the same as the Felt DA2 at £6,000. This is particularly a good bike.

Felt Time Trial Bikes at Wiggle

Trek Equinox 9.9 TT Bike

Trek Equinox in action

I’ve ridden this for a couple of seasons and am happy with the feeling. It is very fast and excellent on descents. There is no lateral movement. In some hilly TT’s I’m descending on this at 50mph, but it feels very steady.

Trek Equinox TT bike Review

Best Time Trial Bike Under £1,000

Focus Izalco

• New Focus Trial alloy frame
• groupset SRAM Rival/SRAM TT Carbon
• Wheelset Easton Vista 622-13

Fuji Aloha 2.0

• Fuji A2-SL Aluminium custom butted and aero shaped, Integrated Head Tube, Double water bottle mountsFork:FC-770 Fuji Bonded Aero Carbon
• Gears included a mixture from Shimano Dura Ace TT Bar End Type levers, Shimano Tiagra front and Shimano 105 rear derailleur, Fuji Custom chainset, 34/50 tooth chainrings, Shimano Tiagra 11/25 tooth cassette, 9-speed.
• The Fuji Aloha 1.0 is a real entry level TT bike. You will really struggle to find anything cheaper. But, it does the job of getting that super fast aero position. Probably a better investment than spending loads of money on trying to upgrade a road bike.

Alternative Time Trial Bikes under £1,000

Chris Boardman AiRTT / Time Trial Bikes

AiR/TT 9.4

After working with British Cycling on marginal gains, Chris Boardman has lent his name and experience to a range of bikes primarily sold through Halfords. The time trial series offer very high spec for good value. The Time trial bikes are based on

• Frame AiR/TT Aerodynamic ultralight UD carbon fibre monocoque, BB30, tapered steerer, internal cable routing
• FORK:£AiR/TT Aerodynamic ultralight UD full carbon, integrated brake
• Frame only 1,250grams – light by standards of time trial bikes

The 9.4 Comes with SRAM red, but still only costs £3,999.

More pictures and review of Chris Boardman TT 9.4

Air/TT 9.0

For an entry level time trial bike, the Air/TT 9.0 is based on same award winning frame for £1,999. The Mavic Aksium wheels are not deep section – so something you can upgrade on later. Gears are SRAM rival. At £2,000 it might seem quite an investment, but you are getting a top of the range frame which will be hard to improve upon, even years later.

Unlike the road series bikes which are sold at Halfords, the Time trial bikes are only available from a few select independent bike stores
Boardman bikes.com

Custom Build Time Trial Bikes

I had a time trial frame custom built by Steve Goff. It cost about £600 for a lightweight Columbus Sl Steel frame. The advantage of a custom built is that you get it built exactly to your specification and help to get the best overall position on a bike. It is this position which is more important than upgrading accessories

How Much To Spend on A Time Trial Bike?

For £2,500 you can get a really good bike. Beyond that, and the gains are perceptible but increasingly marginal. Even at just over £1,000 you can get a pretty good bike.

If you limit is £2,000 I think the Chris Boardman AirTT £9.0 will give a pretty good result.

• Time Trial Bikes at Wiggle
• Time Trial Bikes at Evans Cycles
• Time trial races in the UK
• Training for a 10 mile Time trial