bikebiz july 2011

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Issue 66 | July 2011

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Trade magazine for the bicycle business

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Page 1: BikeBiz July 2011

Issue 66 | July 2011

Page 2: BikeBiz July 2011
Page 3: BikeBiz July 2011

WHO’D BE a banker? These days theyare numbered among the leastfavourite professionals, next to estateagents and, ahem, journalists. The taxpayer bail-out of several banks at theheight of the recent economic crisishas much to do with that, as do thosehard-to-imagine big bonuses.

But most recently banks have beenunder the spotlight over their promise

to lend more to small businesses. Four banks signed up tothe agreement – the quizzically named Project Merlin –committing them to lend more money in 2011.

Last month they were judged on their pledge and it wasrevealed that they missed out on hitting their target oflending at least £19 billion to small and medium enterprises(instead lending £16.8 billion).

The bad news was compounded with reports that thecost of credit is rising, furthering the financial woes of thoserequiring loans, overdrafts and the like.

In a trade full of small and medium businesses, the bikeindustry will certainly be feeling the effects of this. While itis hard to judge to what degree that is the case, it’s worthremembering that modest loans to small businesses canoften be crucial and can even sometimes be the proverbialacorn from which mighty oaks are grown.

One such ‘oak’ is Chain Reaction Cycles. Celebrating its25th year in business, the firm is one of the biggest cycleretailers in the cycle industry globally.

But back in 1984, when it was setting up shop inBallynure, Northern Ireland, it was with a £1,500 bank loanthat the firm established itself. And from that ‘acorn’ thefirm went from strength-to-strength to become the hugecompany it is today, with over 300 members in the CRC‘family’.

With credit for small businesses often a crucial factor insuccess, news of rising lending costs and missed load targetshave an impact, probably largely unseen and unreported,but an impact nonetheless.

Is the next Chain Reaction being given chance to getstarted by the banks? Do you know of any burgeoning bikebusinesses struggling to get affordable credit? I’m extremelykeen to know, so let us know in the usual places. I’mcontactable on [email protected]

EDITORIALIssue 66 | July 2011

NEWS 4-6

REGULARS

DEALER PROFILE 46Red Planet Bikes of Swindon discusses its faithin UK brands, bike fitting and more...

PEOPLE 42Katrin Engel returns to the bike business thanksto her appointment by Endura

NEW PRODUCTS 54Find out what’s new, which firms import theproduct and when it’s available over on page 54

Jonathon Harker, Editor

CHARGE LAUNCH 2012

Big changes at Storck Raddar as the firm eyes growth,while Pure Distribution starts up with the Answer brand...

FOCUS ON…

ICEBIKE IN FOCUS

24 29

“Modest loans to small businesses canoften be crucial and can be theproverbial acorn from which themighty oaks are grown...”

LETTERS 64New shop hopeful writes to BikeBiz withquestions on turnover – can you help?

SPONSORED BY

SPOKESMAN 78Carlton Reid suggests kids will become adultsbefore UK infrastructure is perfect for cycling...

Jonathon Harker reports on the changesat the top of the Bicycle Associationand its projected future course...19

14 MYSTERY SHOPPER

22 BIKE HUB

Our man of mystery tours Ashford in Kentand discovers that nobody’s home...

16 ZYRO SPOTLIGHTBikeBiz Award winning distributor Zyro isprofiled on page 16

BikeBiz recounts the past, present anddocuments a little of the levy’s future plans

CHAIN REACTION 12 RED OR DEAD LAUNCH 26 EVENTS 66

BICYCLE ASSOCIATION AGM

2 PURE COMPETITIONGet your hands on all the latest Crank Brothers awesomeness

in this competition, including the new season Cobalt wheels...

Page 4: BikeBiz July 2011

Storck Raddar UKon the move

4 BIKEBIZ JULY BIKEBIZ.COM

NEWS

STORCK RADDAR UK has movedinto a new, larger office space inGateshead, Tyne and wear.

The new 1,500 square footoffice is a modern contemporarysuite overlooking the river Tynewith latest Storck Raddar pedelec

bikes and Storck Hybrid bikesdisplayed on the first floor openplan showroom with openpitched roof. On the ground flooris an accommodating receptionarea with sofa, coffee tables and‘hang out area’, plus high techworkshop for dealer staff trainingand custom bike building.

SCIENCE IN SPORT has launcheda number of initiatives to boostthe brand’s retail sales, includingnew packaging, POS, and give-away DVDs featuring cycle stars.

SiS’ educational DVDs –including ‘Full gas with FabianCancellara’ have been given awaywith 50,000 magazines, designedto cement the brand’s credibilityand emphasise it’s endorsementby riders in the pro tour races.

GO Electrolyte Green Tea andLemon, Smart 1 Drink andBlueberry and Redberry GO Barshave recently joined the SiS2011 range of GO electrolyte,GO Gels and REGO recoveryproducts.

The brand, designed andmanufactured in Lancashire, saidit was committed to keeping

cycling at its heart, with SiS’ ownsales representatives on hand forpull through and sales supportactivities.

Condor Cycles is one of thefirms currently working closelywith SiS. Condor Productiondirector Neil Manning said:“Condor Cycles have alwayslooked for the best available

products on the market for itscustomers. When Science inSport introduced the originalPSP22 powders, we were proudto be the first SiS retailer. Sincethat day SiS has remained ournumber one energy brand,despite so many havingcompetition from other playersin the market-including manybody building brands.

“Science in Sport worksclosely with independentretailers, like Condor, and offersgood training support on newproducts so our sales team cansell the products withconfidence.”

SiS product is available to thetrade through Madison, BobElliot and Moore Large. Bob Elliot: 01772 459887Madison: 0870 034 7226Moore Large: 01332 274252

“Science in Sporthas worked

closely with ourteam, ensuring we

can sell withconfidence...”

Neil Manning, Condor

“Even Markusand Helena

Storck got in ourour photoshootto populate the

new site...”Ian Hughes, Storck

Raddar UK

by Mark Sutton

by Jonathon Harker

New website launch with secure online trading functionsgoes live � 1,500 square foot facility overlooking the RiverTyne is the firm’s new home

Bike shop for sale A North London-based busybike shop is for sale. On thedoorstop of a CycleSuperhighway, the shop hasbeen established for over 20years and has an excellentloyal customer base. The shopfront has recently beenrefitted with over 12k ofwork including a new shutter,sign and more. [email protected] more details.

Marwi contactsMarwi’s product range,including the disc brake padfeatured in last month’sBikeBiz, is available via threedistributors: The CycleDivision Ltd (0845 0508500),Reece Cycles (0121 6220180) and Coyote Sports (0161 7278508). You can find out moreabout Marwi’s wide productrange at www.marwi-eu.com.

Halfords makesteady financialprogressPreliminary results for theyear to April 1st show thatHalfords has raised its grouprevenue by 4.6 per cent,while adding value to shares.Little mention of cycling wasmade in the report, whichfocused largely on theexpanding autocentresbusiness.

Hertz begins rentingout E-bikesRentals firm Hertz has begunloaning out a fleet of UltraMotor electric bikes from itsMarble Arch branch. At £20for a full day’s hire, thisundercuts the Barclays CycleHire by a whopping £30.

Specialized followsTrek’s lead in carbonrecyclingSpecialized has joined thefew bike brands offering torecycle carbon, encouragingother brands to commit todoing the same. BryantBainbridge, formerly involvedwith Nike’s eco-efforts hasbeen hired to oversee theefforts.

CYCLESHORTS

For breaking news visit:www.bikebiz.com

New packaging revamp simplifies nutrition messages andexplains most efficient use of product lines

SiS reveals sales boosting POS

Page 5: BikeBiz July 2011

NEWS

AS REPORTED on BikeBiz.comduring June, a cunning group ofscammers has become prolificin the last month, attempting toorder large hauls of bikesassuming the details of retailers,including the likes of chain storeHargroves Cycles.

Since our report it hasemerged that Dales Cycles, SplitSecond Imports, Merida andothers have received similarfalse orders. Luckily due to thenature of the scam, BikeBiz hasyet to receive report ofanything other than “very closecalls.”

Allan Doyle of Dales Cylessaid BikeBiz retailers anddistributors alike should be onthe lookout for suspiciousdelivery and pick-up requests.He said: “We had an incidentthrough Merida where someone

claiming to be us tried to ordera significant number of bikesfrom them. This order got

perilously close to dispatchbefore it was picked up by allparties concerned.”

Doyle explained that thescam, also reported to haveaffected Saddleback, Dawes andFalcon Cycles, works by thefraudster assuming a shop

manager’s name, often found onwebsites and placing falseorders “to be picked up inperson, because of urgencyissues”.

Dan Haynes of Split SecondImports confirmed that thedistribution business had alsosmelled a rat using similartactics.

“Although it was a while ago,I can confirm that Split Secondwere targeted by a fraudster ina very similar way described inyour online story. Purporting tobe from one of our large onlineBMX retailers, the man waslooking to place a large bikeorder and collect in person as‘he had a van in the areatomorrow’. We knew it soundedsuspicious as it was from amobile.”

If you have a similar warningto share with others, [email protected]

To coincide with this move, thefirm has also launched its newwebsite, which has been designedby Ian and Trevor Hughes andbuilt by local web architectsBoxmodel. Working alongside prosnapper Paul Smith, the firm hasput together a fresh-lookingwebsite with stunning imageryfor its bike catalogue.

Ian Hughes, MD at StorckRaddar, told BikeBiz: “I’m reallyhappy with the images Paul has

created from

the initial brief.Even Markus and Helena Storckgot in on the photo shoot withgreat results. Trevor has broughtvaluable communication skillsfrom his previous job at Orangetelecom to help develop a StorckRaddar community."

Storck Raddar UK’s newaddress is Storck Raddar UK Ltd.10 Keel Row, The Watermark,Gateshead, Tyne and Wear. NE119SZ. The telephone line is 0191493 2654

by Mark Sutton

Scammers target bothretail and distribution

“Somebody calledMerida, claiming

to be our storewith a significant

order...”Allan Doyle, Dales Cycles

Bold, have-a-go thieves place order assuming retail details,before attempting delivery interception or pick-up

Science in Sportwants customers

to be left in nodoubt of the

purpose of eachnutrition product

Page 6: BikeBiz July 2011

NEWS

DUE TO the growing demand for its discbrakes at both OEM and aftermarket,Clarks Cycle Systems has opened a UKservice centre.

With products such as the Skeletalhydraulic brakes selling well and thedevelopment of the 'Elite' andcomponents ranges, themanufacturer is inviting dealersor consumers with any queriesto get in touch with the UKbased team.

Paul Toon, product designerat Clarks, told BikeBiz: "We seethis as a vital area for aftersales service and reflects ourcommitment to our customersand products we supply. Tothat end we will also offer aselection of spare parts fordirect purchase, if needed."

Clarks opens dedicated UK service centre

PROFESSIONAL BMX racer RichTownsend has set up a new distributionbusiness carrying both Answer racingproducts and own-branded Pure BicycleCo. framesets.

Townsend's UK designed, Italian-builtPure framesets span a number of sectors,from road, race BMX, four-cross, throughtime trial and more.

Making use of tried and testedDedacciai tubing throughout the line,Townsend told BikeBiz that Pure aspiresto "have a high quality product in eachrace sector, designed and tailored to theracer who will only run the very bestproducts on the market."

It's not just super high-end gearavailable via Pure though. The 7000 seriesaluminium road frame and fork package isa highlight, costing just £499 at retail.Availability for most of the Pure line isexpected to be mid July, though preorders are being accepted at present.Titanium frames are expected shortly too,though Pure asks that enquiries for thesebe made on an individual basis at present.

Answer, one of the larger brands on theBMX race scene, has a key product in thisseason's catalogue in the form of the'Dagger' fork, described by Townsend as"one of the big three in the market andthe most high-end of those choices." At£259, the Expert fork comprises high-

density 4k woven carbon legs and a 7075steerer tube.

Kid's pro-level race goods will also beimported via Pure, which has a variety ofhandlebar's within its catalogue, mostnotably the Mini and Expert Carbon at£80 and £110 retail price, respectively.

The distributor has made bold movesin pushing the brand name on the racecircuit, with 11 professional riders ridingPure's BMX product on the track, whileRia Goodwin, the 17 to 24 ladies worldchampion will be competing this seasonaboard Pure RS and TT builds.

Pure Bicycle Company is contactableon 01582 882919, or via email [email protected].

Pure Distribution opens for business

by Mark Sutton

by Mark Sutton

6 BIKEBIZ JULY BIKEBIZ.COM

“Pure should end uphaving a high-end offerfor each race sector...”

Own-brand framesets and Answer goods the first to find a home under Pure Distribution label �Owner Rich Townsend pushing brand on race circuit with sponsored riders in BMX and road

Pure’s race BMX frame withAnswer Dagger fork

“We see this as a vitalarea of after sales

service...”Paul Toon, Clarks

Page 7: BikeBiz July 2011

iceBike* July 2011iceBike* July is back! Following the popularity of last years July event, we are pleased to announce that registration is now open for this years show! iceBike* combines all the smaller previously held mid-year, next season launch events, into one bigger ‘must attend’ event, held at our Milton Keynes distribution centre.

Bikes: The new 2012 ranges from Saracen, Ridgeback, Genesis & the new ‘ready assembled’ Adventure rangeApparel: Spring/Summer 2012 ranges from Pearl Izumi & Madison. New ranges from Shimano, PRO, Giro & Bell.Parts & Accessories: The must have winter essentials from Blackburn, Electron, Light & Motion, Elite, CycraGuard, Respro & Hydrapak, as well as a wealth of new products from GoPro, Easton Moutain Products, Shimano, OGIO, Pacifi c Outdoor Equipment, Profi le Design and many more...

Tuesday 19th July: 9.00am - 5.00pmThursday 21st July: 9.00am - 5.00pm

Wednesday 20th July: 9.00am - 5.00pm (mass participation ride all invited)

Friday 22nd July: 9.00am - 5.00pm

PRE-REGISTER NOW

for more information and to register visit

www.icebike.co.uk

extra dates added due to demandMonday 25th July: 9.00am - 5.00pm Tuesday 26th July: 9.00am - 5.00pm

Page 8: BikeBiz July 2011

Are proud to announce the launch of their new P&A range!

IBD exclusive 70% margins on initial buy in deal Core range offering both quality and value

Buy from a supplier you already know and trust Supports and enhances brand awareness

only £14.99 rrp

only £17.99 rrp

only £22.99 rrp

only £9.99 rrp

shacklelock

only £24.99 rrp

Good stocksavailable and easy

to order on ourNew B2B site!

For more details callMelanie Bailey on

01652 656000 EXT 699 [email protected]

Page 9: BikeBiz July 2011

Falcon Cycles DivisionPO Box 3 Bridge Street, Brigg, North Lincolnshire, DN20 8PB

Page 10: BikeBiz July 2011

signed up to the latest offers, whichcan be sorted on the site via brand,most recent or type of promotion.

Our business-to-business site alsoincludes downloadable personalised

price lists, and other accountstationery/documents, as well as quick

order pad processing with CSVfunctionality.

Dealers can also use the ‘save and orderagain’ function, as well as take advantageof the ‘email when back in stock’ feature.The B2B site also has live stockavailability, order history, a new

backorder report, basket reminders andmuch more.

What’s next for Zyro? What are the biggestchallenges ahead? SE: More investment in technology, including e-commerce to further enhance our B2B serviceexperience, which will enhance our full serviceoffering, but not to take away from the personalcontact we pride ourselves in from our growinginternal and field sales teams.

We look forward to the buzz around theOlympics in 2012, but undoubtedly the biggestchallenges we face as a business as a whole willbe maintaining prices, which are constantlyincreasing at source as the world economy, rawmaterials continue to be affected.

However, we pride ourselves on stability andwill continue to keep costs low to limit impacton our customers and ultimately theconsumers, our public.Zyro: 01845 521700

BIKEBIZ AWARD WINNERS | ZYRO

With this year’s BikeBiz Awards now announced forSeptember, we continue to speak to last year’s winners.Jonathon Harker tracks down Zyro’s co-founder SimonEllison and marketing manager Jane Watson...

Winning ways

How does it feel to have another BikeBizAward in the trophy cabinet? SE: We are extremely proud of ourachievements and our team. It is truerecognition of everyone’s hard work. It’s also abig achievement for a private enterprise to berecognised like this.

You picked up a number of brands this year,including Tifosi and Bryton. Any moresignings on the horizon? SE: Tifosi and Bryton were immediate hits andTifosi is now reaching its potential. You expectsome brands to take time to bed in, but thesehave been real winners from the off andcomplement two key gaps in our priorportfolio – GPS and sunglasses. We take timeto find the right partners and are certainly notin the business of adding brands and growthpurely by brand acquisition.

We are always talking to brands, but theremust be a real strategic fit and we mustbelieve we can make a real difference to anynew brand we partner up with. We work hardfor long-term partnerships, but again we arecertainly not on a mission to add brands forthe sake of adding brands.

Tortec, for instance, is a home-grown brandand will be a key asset in our firm’s future. LikeAltura, which has grown from strength-to-strength, we will continually invest in thesewhilst the growth is there.

How have sales been this year? LastSeptember Zyro said it would grow sales inexcess of £50m in the next three to fouryears. Is that still the target? SE: Yes, we’re still on track.

Have you seen any trends over the firstquarter of 2011? Any unexpectedproducts/sectors growing? SE: GPS and sunglasses have beenfantastic, even more so as newcategories for us. PowerBarhas grown astronomicallyonce again after its bestever year in 2010. Weare set for a great TourSeason and the buyingstarted early inJanuary despite thepoor weather andeconomic conditionshere in the UK.

Altura has again beenamazing with a best everspring/summer sell in too, beatingexpectations in certain categories.

It sounds like it’s a bit of atransition year for Alturafollowing the rebranding. How isthat going? SE: This has undoubtedly given us an extraedge this year and the synergy on and offproduct of a more visible identity has made useven stronger and more recognisable to thepublic.

Was there a slowdown in cycle to work lastyear after the HMRC recommendation? Andhas that now recovered? SE: Yes. I think everyone will agree in theindustry, but at least we are now seeing signsof stability, though C2W is unlikely to return toprevious levels any time soon.

Have there been any recent developmentson the B2B site? JW: Week-on-week we introduce updates tothe Zyro B2B site and we are seeing ourbiggest uplifts with more regular orders beingmade via site.

We now email out fortnightly promotionnewsletters to introduce customers who have

10 BIKEBIZ JULY BIKEBIZ.COM

Jane Watson and Chris

Davis picked up the

P&A Distributor award

on the night

Zyro has a trolleyload of brands tooffer cycle retailers

Page 11: BikeBiz July 2011

Distribution By Zyro Ltd.Order via www.zyrob2b.co.ukor call 01845 521742

Page 12: BikeBiz July 2011

CHAIN REACTION | BB386 EVO

of fit to moredifferent frames. The BB386 EVO usesthe proven 30mm alloy spindle, whichalready is known to reduce weight andimprove stiffness. Mating this to the wider BBshell, and press fit cups, allows this crankset tofit not only the 386EVO BB shell, but also tobe adaptable to threaded and BB30 frames.

The crankset is able to keep normal Q-factor, but be adaptable to three differentbottom bracket systems. That will allow thiscrankset to have the widest range ofadaptability of any crankset we produce. Thus,the 386 EVO crankset can eliminate the needto offer multiple different crank set models forthe different BB standards. FSA will be able tooffer one crankset that will fit all three, andstill be lighter and stiff than our currentMegaExo option.

What do you say to those who believeanother standard for BBs unnecessary?There have always been many standards of BBin the market. Those of us old enough willremember French threading, Swiss threading,as well as English and Italian. The bike marketfollows trends that continue innovation. Asopportunities arise to improve performance, oradaptability, we believe the industry will adoptthem, provided they make sense.

The BB shell is wider, what advantages doesthis bring?The wider BB386 EVO shell allows a muchgreater surface area, up to around 80-81mm ofdiameter, so the shape of the tubes can bemodified more to achieve the ride performancethey want.

Additionally, other frame components canalso benefit. The wider BB shell allows chainstays to be optimized, with either a greaterthickness, or a wider spacing to allow greaterstiffness, plus better tire clearance.

One important characteristic of theBB386 EVO design is that it allows a widerange of adaptability both for the crankset tofit other frame standards, and for the frame tofit other crank standards. The BB386 EVOframe design allows the use of crank sets withthe 24mm thick integrated spindle by anumber of bearing adapters, which reduce the30mm bearings to fit the 24mm spindle.

Conversely, the BB386 EVO crank set iswidely adaptable to both threaded

shells, and BB30 frames. FSA will also offer simple bottom

brackets, and adapters to allow onecrank set to fit all three types of

frames, thus simplifying both the salesand assembly process.

The BB386 EVO crankset will not only fit allof these bottom bracket types, but will alsooffer greatly improved performance comparedto 24mm integrated systems.

Which manufacturers have become earlyadopters of the BB386?BB386 EVO is already in use by Wilier and BH.ABG (Litespeed) is also now progressing withthe standard and we expect other brands totake advantage of this design going forwards.

Why press fit bearings?The use of the press fit bearing cups allows theframe designer to eliminate any alloy or steelcomponent inside the BB shell area, since thenylon composite cups have a greater range offit tolerance. Therefore, the BB shell area canbecome lighter, and simpler to make.

Could there be further tweaks to the designin future?It is possible that other bike brands willpropose enhancements to the system, and it isnot a surprise. We suppose that in the futurewe will see more new standards introduced tothe market.

Could the BB386 branch into territoriesbeyond road?It is possible that we will see this BB386 EVOalso on Cyclocross and MTB frames, since thebenefits: weight reduction, stiffness increaseand better clearance between the chain stays,make sense here also.

Wider width designs, like 386 EVO, will haveto work around interference issues with triplering MTB cranks.

Can you tell us how the BB386 EVO cameabout?The idea of BB386 EVO is based on the groundbreaking BB30 system, developed byCannondale. The revolution of the 30mmspindle opened the door for the mostsignificant improvement in crank design inmany years.

The BB386 EVO design simply modifies theBB30 design to a wider width, and incorporatesa press fit bearing cup, rather than the direct fitbearing of the BB30 system. This slightmodification allows the adaptability of thedesign to other BB shells, and gives the buildermore options when crafting frames.

The idea was born from a request from twoFSA customers, Wilier and BH. Both proposed awider version of BB30, but both requesteddifferent BB lengths (Wilier proposed 86mm

and BH 80mm). Both ideas were interesting,but the 86mm length allowed FSA to make onecrankset that could also be used on threadedBB shells, thanks to the threaded reducer cupsfor 30mm spindles. Wilier and BH agreed toFSA’s suggestions and developed new framesbased on this concept and at the same time,FSA created the crank set.

What were the ultimate goals of the newbottom bracket?From the perspective of a frame maker, BB386EVO allows the designer significantly morearea to modify the performance characteristicsof the frame. A standard 68mm BB shell widthallows a down tube or seat tube diameter ofaround 63mm as a maximum. The 386 EVOsystem allows a much more generous amountof area, up to around 83mm. This solution canreally increase frame stiffness, and using thepress fit cups allows the frame maker toeliminate any alloy insert into the BB shell,resulting in a big weight reduction.

From the component maker’s perspective,the BB386 EVO system allows more flexibility

12 BIKEBIZ JULY BIKEBIZ.COM

Claudio Marra

FSA believes it’s on to something big withthe creation of the BB386 EVO. Yet manyin the industry question the need foranother bottom bracket standard.FSA’s Claudio Marra explains why…

“As opportunities arise toimprove performance, oradaptability, we believethe industry will adoptthem, provided they makesense...”

EVOlution

Page 13: BikeBiz July 2011
Page 14: BikeBiz July 2011

MYSTERY SHOPPER | ASHFORD

Mystery Shopper’s UK tourground to a bit of a halt inAshford thanks to shopclosures and missing staff.Halfords came out top of thepile and that’s despite fourstaff barricading themselvesbehind a tiny counter…

Flat Out BMX

I'M TOLD Flat Out is a fairly new operation and myguess is it's yet to receive the majority of its stock. As aresult of virtually empty floor and barely occupied wallspace, Flat Out’s shop seemed larger than it actually was.

At the opposing end of the shop to the entrance wasan assistant who gave me a nod before returning to hislaptop. I browsed for a short while before asking a semi-technical query about a set of pedals requiring ananswer that only a niche store such as this would likelyknow. The answer, in all fairness, was well addressed,though was followed with the strong dismissal of allplastic pedals as 'rubbish'. Flat Out only had one pair ofmetal pedals in stock, the rest were plastic.

Though attentive enough when questions wereposed, it was difficult to draw the assistant's attentionaway from the laptop and toward customers. Perhaps Iarrived while he was mid order. Whatever it was on thescreen, he was fascinated.

As I left the store the assistant followed, lit acigarette on the doorstep and stood about making itvery hard for paparazzi to snap thestorefront, or for any customers toenter without getting a lungfull.

Halfords

NEARING FULL marks is perhaps generous for this branch,for which just one of four staff squeezed behind thecounter was brave enough to assist. As is often the casein Halfords, the younger staff did their best to avoidcoming from behind the till area, leaving the most seniorof the bunch to help. As expected and experiencedpreviously, this particular staffer was fantastic.

This assistant couldn't have done much more to sellme a bike, covering aftercare, warranty, accessory add-ons, multiple bikes, as well as discussing advanced cyclingand performance gear.

Though I found his technical knowledge a littleunbalanced in places, for the most part advice was solidand would certainly see the typical Halfords customerright in their purchase.

Clever point of display is always a bonus and thisbranch was innovative in the way it displayed lightingaccessories, offering a try-before-you buy testing station,among other things.

If I were to have relied on being seen on the shop, as Itypically would in anindependent store, this visitwould have gone ungraded.[ ]2/5 [ ]4/5

SCORE SCORE

14 BIKEBIZ JULY BIKEBIZ.COM

Is anybody home?

Page 15: BikeBiz July 2011

Velo Refined

DEAR MR VELO REFINED, if you're reading, I'm typingthis on board a ferry to nowhere in particular thanks tothe proceeds from selling your bikes.

Okay, perhaps that's a lie, but the thought had crossedthe mind of Mystery Shopper's evil alter-ego. It wouldhave been so easy to lift your entire high-end stock,which I'd estimate to be in the region of 20 to 30thousand pounds.

Let me set the scene. I enter a quiet industrial unit, noone's around aside from a lone mechanic from theneighbouring garage. He's busy playing with a rather niceFerrari as I enter your empty showroom.

I spend five minutes inside unaccompanied. Nothingappears to be locked to the wall fixtures. At the veryleast there's a pair of wheels worth a few grand to behad. Looks like a few unboxed deliveries laying around onthe table too.

In reality, these thoughts didn't even cross MysteryShopper's mind and that lone mechanic next doorhelpfully advised that you're normally available byappointment only.

Let us know what time youare (not) around and I'll book in...

MYSTERY SHOPPER | ASHFORD

Summary

ASHFORD PROVED to be very difficult to drawconclusions on with many mitigating factors to takeinto account on the majority of visits.

Should I mark down Flat Out for being focused onhis laptop? Perhaps I entered while the assistant wasdeep into some accounting. On the other hand, washe on YouTube and simply not fussed about customers?

How do you mark a store that has norepresentation? Operating on an appointment onlybasis Velo Refined is as 'high-end' a bicycle businessas they come. Presumably the owner is an expert in hisfield, though having found no details of the need tobook on the firm’s home page, are all the basics ofbusiness covered? The home page features a 'now open'icon. Click the 'about us' tab and it's a different story.

Halfords and Sports Direct demonstrated that oneexcellent employee is worth the whole bundle ofaverage workers.

Sports Direct

GOING IN search of Ashford's town centre 'cyclery'Mystery Shopper found nothing but a closed store and aworn sign above to indicate that Ashford no longer hasa central bicycle store.

Venturing into Sports Direct in the hope someonewithin may have an inkling of a where the local bikeshop had gone, or whether there was another in town,an assistant advised that she knew of none, thoughasked if she could help. Put on the spot, but intruiged bysomeone in Sports Direct uniform openly seeking tohelp, I queried whether the store had any jerseyssuitable for cycling.

Being led through to a section of vest tops andbasketball style jerseys I felt as though past dismissals ofthe chain as virtually useless at customer service were alittle rough. I was reminded that representation on theshop floor is very important, as demonstrated earlier inHalfords by one star employeesurrounded by three othersreluctant to do their job.

Hamstreet Cycles

NOTING PRIOR to my entry that Hamstreet Cycles wasa type of hardware and cycle shop hybrid, I had to altermy brief a little, opting out of mentioning the crosscountry bike sought elsewhere in favour of a bit of aquiz on a cheap reconditioned full suspension bike inthe window.

Soon after I'd uttered the words 'built to last' theassistant gave said window occupying bike a glancebefore suggesting that I pop back in a week's time whenhe'd taken stock of a few more better specced models.

Advising that any repair work could be carried out instore, the assistant seemed keen to hold off selling mejust any bike, honestly informing me that the bikes hehad in stock may not last too long on trail excursions.

In terms of representation of a business, the assistanthere was the day’s best, showing attention to detail,asking the right questions of me and ultimately being athoroughly nice chap.

The store did appear poorly presented, both on theoutside and inside. With a lick of paint and a tidy upinside, the shop would surely haveroom for a more focused line ofbikes.[ ]U [ ]3/5

SCORE SCORE

[ ]3/5SCORE

BIKEBIZ.COM BIKEBIZ JULY 15

Page 16: BikeBiz July 2011

RETAILERS, suppliers and brands from thebicycle industry are currently furiously lobbyingfor the companies that they believe are mostdeserving of recognition forthis year’s BikeBiz Awards.

And with lobbying for thetrade prizes now in fullswing the awards have beenbacked by integrated EPOSand Ecommerce solutionprovider Citrus-Lime.

The firm will be EventPartner for the 2011 BikeBizAwards, this year taking partat the Hilton Metropole,NEC on WednesdaySeptember 28th.

Citrus-Lime is a long-term supporter of thecycle industry awards,having now backed themfor three consecutiveyears. “Citrus-Lime isproud to again supportthe BikeBiz Awards in2011 and acknowledgethe successes within thecycle industry on thisspecial occasion.

“We shall see you onthe night and wish the bestof luck to all nominees.”

Citrus-Lime brings ecommerce, Epos andStock Control solutions to cycle retailersdesigned to help dealers run their businesses

more efficiently andwith increasedprofitability. Citrus-Lime’s Bike WorkshopModule includes SMSand email customernotifications, amongmany other bike sector-specific modules andfeatures.

A regular Core Bikeexhibitor, Citrus-Limehas worked with Giantand Madison amongothers, as well asdelivering Epos forChain Reaction Cycles’new state-of-the-artBelfast store.

The BikeBiz Awardswere first establishedin 2008 to honourand celebrate thebicycle trade. Initiallylaunched as anonline-only event,the Awards becamea stand-alone eventin 2010.

BIKEBIZ | AWARDS

16 BIKEBIZ JULY BIKEBIZ.COM

Carly Bailey

WHERE?

The BikeBiz Awards 2011 will take place atthe Hilton Metropole, NEC on WednesdaySeptember 28th, the evening before theCycle Show starts.

WHAT?

The categories have been tweaked for 2011.They include: � Independent Retailer� Online Retailer� High Street Chain� Retail Workshop Distributor: Bikes� Distributor: P&A� Distributor of the Year� Consumer Print Media

(Specialist and National Press) � Consumer Website� Bike Brand� P&A Brand� Rising Star� Retail Marketing Initiative

HOW TO LOBBY?

If you want to tell us why you, a customeror a supplier should be considered for anaward, simply [email protected]. All youneed to include is a brief sentence or twoexplaining why the company should win anaward.

For more details turn to the ‘How to wina BikeBiz Award’ article in June’s BikeBiz.

WHO?

For more information on sponsorshipopportunities, [email protected].

“Citrus-Lime is onceagain proud to supportthe BikeBiz Awards and

acknowledge thesuccesses within the

cycle industry.”

With lobbying now open, the build up to September’s 2011 BikeBizAwards night hots up, buoyed by Citrus-Lime becoming Event Partner

for this year’s event. Jonathon Harker gives you the facts...

Prize night

Road.cc were among last

year’s award winners

Event Partner

Page 17: BikeBiz July 2011

For more information on tradetickets and sponsorship opportunities,please email [email protected]

or call 01992 535647

EARLY BIRDTICKETS

Offer closesAugust 31st

£15

AWARDS 2011

Event Partner

Wednesday September 28th

Page 18: BikeBiz July 2011
Page 19: BikeBiz July 2011

MUCH HAS changed over the last 12 months.While the last annual general meeting of theBicycle Association focused on the successes ofthe Cycling Towns and Cities programme, andthe positives created by the industry Bike Hublevy, this year talk inevitably covered the effectof the end of Cycling England, which officiallyclosed its doors in March this year.

The end of the quango and its pot of moneydedicated for cycling presents the industry with

new challenges, in the words of outgoingBicycle Association president Philip Taylor:“Due to the draconian cutbacks of the presentUK administration, a new challenge standsbefore the industry and that is how to fosteran exchange of ideas and interests, betweenthe Government and the bicycle industry,which has to a large degree now beenattenuated.”

The retiringpresident also posedthe question: “Howand who can nowoffer advice to thetowns and cities –particularly to thebenefit of cycling –regarding access tothe £560 millionLocal SustainableTransport Fund.”

In short, how willthe industry fill thegap left by two wheel advocacy success storyCycling England?

BIG SOCIETY CHOOSES BIKESThe AGM heard the good news that thelessons learnt from Cycling England’s CyclingDemonstration Towns and Cities project –which found that investment in cycling has abenefit to cost ratio of three-to-one – are

being adopted locally. The vast majority of bidsfor the Local Sustainable Transport Fund have acycling element to them, with some directlyimplementing similar schemes.

“People have learnt from Cycling England,”said new executive director Phillip Darnton(see page 20). “Bids have been based on thingsthat have been proven by Cycling England

through theDemonstrationprogramme.”

But even if lessonshave been learnt locally,there are bigger testsahead. Taylor used his lastspeech as BA president todiscuss the challenge of agrowing population andthe pressure the shift toliving in urban areas hasput on the roads andtransport infrastructure.

“According to theWorld Bank, 3.3 billion people now live incities worldwide. By 2030, 60 per cent of theworld’s population will inhabit cities. Every dayalmost 180,000 people take up residence incities. In the developing world 60 millionpeople move into cities each year and, unlessthere is a dramatic and unforeseen populationcrash, this rate will continue for at least thenext 30 years.

REPORT | BA AGM

“A new challenge nowfaces the industry. That is

how to foster anexchange between the

Government and the biketrade...”

Philip Taylor, OutgoingPresident of the BA

BIKEBIZ.COM BIKEBIZ JULY 19

The Bicycle Association has a new president andhas beefed up its PR efforts to boost cycling.Jonathon Harker reports from this year’s AGM…

New challengesfor cycling

>>>

Philip Taylorand MarkBickerton

Investment in cyclingis said to bring a 3:1ratio of return to theeconomy

Page 20: BikeBiz July 2011

REPORT | BA AGM

20 BIKEBIZ JULY BIKEBIZ.COM

“The result is that citypopulations are growing faster than

infrastructure can adapt and not only does thiscause health risks and social problems, but alsoenvironmental concerns. Air quality worsenswith the result that worldwide one millionpeople die each year as a result of urban airpollution. Traffic increases, leading to morecongestion and more road crashes. According tothe World Health Organisation, a staggering 1.2million people die, and as many as 50 millionare injured, in urban traffic crashes indeveloping countries each year.”

“And this statistic is unlikely to change as aresult of us all driving electric cars - howeverheavily subsidised.

“80 per cent of the total UK populace – that’sover 50 million – is classified as urban dwellingand urbanisation here is forecast to grow at 0.7per cent – 350,000 people – per annum to 2015.

“Integrating urban and suburban public andpersonal transport has never been such animportant, global topic.”

The challenge is to ensure that cycling ispart of the solution.

Taylor concluded his tenure on a positivenote, stating that: “Although cycling in the UKmay still not be what is was in the early 20thCentury in either an industrial sense, or inownership and usage terms, it is, I amconvinced, on an unstoppable upward trendthat can only be positive for all involved in thebicycle business.”

>>>

Philip Taylor retired from his position of BApresident at the AGM. He said: “I am pleasedto be able to hand over my post to MarkBickerton following on from a period that hasseen sustained industry growth, increasedlevels of cycling in sport, leisure andcommuting, as well as political recognition ofcycling’s benefits upon health, transport andthe environment.

“I am therefore in no doubt that he will beable to guide a still strong Association, safe inthe knowledge that cycling will continue to

have increasingly greater prospects in future.”The AGM also saw the announcement that

ex-Cycling England chair Phillip Darntonwould be taking on a new role at the BA asexecutive director. In the new positionDarnton will promote cycling and also BikeHub, the cycle industry’s levy fund.

The new president said of Darnton’sappointment: “I am sure the appointment ofPhillip is going to be a fantasticstrengthening of the Bicycle Association,and will give him a continued platform fromwhich he can work his magic for benefit ofthe UK bicycle industry, trade and thecontinued promotion of cycling.

“His tireless work over the last few yearshave benefited everyone who has hadanything to do with bicycles in the UK, oris ever likely to have anything to do with

bicycles. Knowing that we have his skills andpersonality at the centre of the BicycleAssociation going forward is something that Iam absolutely thrilled about.”

Bickerton also paid tribute to the outgoingpresident: “I would like to thank Philip Tayloragain for all his very hard work as Presidentover the last four years. He has put anenormous amount of effort into ensuringthat the BA has continued to be anorganisation that the membership can beproud of and benefit from all its activities.”

Three amigos PhillipDarnton, the new

executive director ofthe BA Philip Taylor,

retiring president

PRESIDENTIAL CYCLE

Page 21: BikeBiz July 2011
Page 22: BikeBiz July 2011

RETROSPECTIVE | BIKE HUB

EIGHT YEARS old and counting, the voluntaryBike Hub levy has given hundreds of thousandsof pounds each year – over £2 million in total– to help secure the future of cycling acrossthe UK.

Around £400,000 is generated each year viacontributions from suppliers and IBDs throughthe levy, which was created by the BicycleAssociation and the Association of CycleTraders back in 2003.

But where has that cash been spent, I hearyou cry? Here are some of the highlights...

BIKE ITBike It is a scheme run by sustainable transportcharity Sustrans’ designed to encouragechildren to cycle.

Bike Hub helps pay the wages of 58 full-time Bike It officers who work with schools topromote biking, organising cycle activities andhelping make it easy for kids to cycle to andfrom school. The scheme currently reaches 600UK schools each year, and 94 per cent of

headteachers said that the tuition has helpedpupils become more physically active, as wellas encouraged active transport to and fromschool.

BIKEABILITY Training up wee nippers to be confident andsafe on their bike is a no brainer and Bike Hubhas pledged £30,000 over two years to CyclingScotland to help establish Bikeability trainingin Scotland.

THE BIG PEDAL Sticking with the theme that today’s childrenare tomorrow’s (er and indeed today’s) cyclists,the levy has given youngsters significant focus,not least in the Big Pedal. In another team upwith Sustrans, the Big Pedal was a cycle racepitting schools against each other across theland. Staff and pupils clocked up cycle miles forprizes and as a result the Big Pedal saw awhopping 990 bike journeys made in just threeweeks by schools taking part in the race.

The UK cycle industry’s own Bike Hub levyis a virtually unique phenomenon aroundthe globe, proving Britain’s bike trade iswilling to invest in its own, and cycling’s,future. Jonathon Harker charts theprogress of the levy...

22 BIKEBIZ JULY BIKEBIZ.COM

The envy of the

world

Page 23: BikeBiz July 2011

RETROSPECTIVE | BIKE HUB

NEW IDEAS FUND In 2009 Bike Hub established the New IdeasFund to try new schemes to encourage cycling.The three schemes to benefit targeted somediverse demographics.

Age Well on Wheels, run by the LondonCycle Campaign, aimed to help over-50s getback on their bikes, while Darlovelo waspitched at encouraging young women ontobikes. The final scheme – Get Cycling – was aSheffield and Hull-set initiative, encouragingpeople to rent a bike, gain confidence throughtraining and then go on to buy their own bikes.

BIKE WEEK Bike Week has been encouraging the nation tocycle since the 1920s and an impressive500,000 people took part in over 1,900 eventsin the week last year. The contribution to itsoperation from the Bike Hub levy has beenmore crucial than ever this year, with theGovernment pulling the plug on CyclingEngland and with it, its £75,000 contribution

to the nationwide event. The week is alsobacked by Transport for London and TeamGreen Britain, part of EDF Energy. This yeardealers have been polled, via the ACT, on howbest to grow business as a result of Bike Week.A retail partner will now operate for this year’sBike Week as a result of that.

JOURNEY PLANNING APPSThere are over 11 million smartphone ownersin the UK and Bike Hub has cunningly tappedinto that market to direct business to the doorof bike retailers, all via the Bike Hubsmartphone app. The free piece of software is anavigation tool for cyclists with a shop-findingfeature, directing users to the nearest bikeshops along routes, wherever they are in thecountry. First released on iPhone, the Bike Hubapp was made more widely available with anAndroid app release at the end of last year.

Those are just a few of the projects Bike Hubhas been a part of during its first eight years. Findout more about the levy at www.bikehub.co.uk.

BIKEBIZ.COM BIKEBIZ JULY 23

“Age Well on Wheelshelped the over 50s getback on their bikes, whileDarlovelo was pitched atgiving young women theconfidence to take upcycling...”

BikeHub has workedtirelessly to give

particularly womenand the elderly the

confidence to cycle

© Phil Dixon

The Victoria Pendleton ledParliamentary Cycle Group pre-ride

Page 24: BikeBiz July 2011

And if a measure of success was needed,several customers who entered with furnitureon the mind took away catalogues for bikes.

In further welcome news for retailers, for themost part the 2012 line has either got cheaperat retail, or held prices at last year's levels. Thisis in part down to the backing of goliathCycling Sports Group, though also down to thepopularity of last year's line bringing home thebacon for Larsen's brand.

"We've been able to buy in larger numbersthis year which has benefited the brand inmany ways," explains Larsen. "We've had greatsales results with some of our larger accountsand our increased buying power has done us abig favour on holding prices down. There'saround 30 bikes in the 2012 catalogue and ofthose that were around last year, very fewhave encountered price rises."

Charge will also this year join the 29erbandwagon, introducing the 'Cooker' speccedfor three different price points, handily all

within the cycle to work scheme bracket.Beginning at £699,99, the 'Cooker Rigid' laysthe foundations for anyone curious of thelarger wheel size, providing a sturdy steed onwhich to build, should the 29er bug bite. ATange Infinity tubed frame features on all, withthe highest priced Cooker costing £999.99 andcoming specced with a 29er specific version ofthe RockShox Dart fork and Sram x5components.

Joining the scores of names touting the29er's potential to open a new era ofmountain biking growth, Larsen himself is ahuge fan of his own Cooker, telling BikeBiz: "Ilove the way these bikes ride, I'd choose to ridemy 29er over most now."

The majority of Charge's 2012 catalogue,including new component goods, is projectedto be available by September this year, thoughmodels specced with hub gears are likely to bedelayed.Cycling Sports Group: 01202 732288

IT ISN'T A figment of your imagination. Neverone to do what everyone else is doing, Chargereally has held a bike launch in the middle of aLondon department store. Propping its entire2012 line on eye-wateringly priced furnitureand designer shagpile rugs, the Conran Store onFulham Road played host and will continue todo so with two models from the 2012 line.

Brand owner Nick Larsen told BikeBiz whythe department store made an interestinglaunch location: "We'd been in discussions withthe Conran Store about having two of ourmodels sold via the store's gift guide and also instore. We mentioned in passing productlaunches and various shows that our brandattends and that's when the store asked if we'dlike to use their Fulham Road location as abackdrop for one such launch."

With the Conran shop's main clientele beingmade up of affluent females, what betterlocation could there be to unveil an expandedline of bikes tailored to the feminine form.Some models may look vaguely familiar tothose in the trade who formerly stocked CyclingSports Group's Summer Bicycles line and that'sbecause Larsen's team has taken the reignshaving absorbed the line recently.

"There's four new women's bikes joining thecatalogue for 2012," explains Larsen. "We'veadded our own Charge touches throughout,most notably on the frames, such as a new twintop tube on the Hob. There's been somecarefully considered work on the colour palettetoo, with more contemporary shades in useacross the board."

LAUNCH REPORT | CHARGE 2012

“There’saround 30bikes in the2012 lineand few ofthose haveencounteredprice rises...”

Nick Larsen

29-inch wheeled buildsjoin this year’s

catalogue, as seenbelow

24 BIKEBIZ JULY BIKEBIZ.COM

Charged upand ready to goWith the buying power of Cycling Sports Groupbehind the brand and the absorbtion of the SummerBicycles brand, plenty has changed ahead of the2012 season at Charge. Mark Sutton discusses thechanges with Nick Larsen and his team…

Page 25: BikeBiz July 2011

BIKEBIZ.COM BIKEBIZ JULY 25

Page 26: BikeBiz July 2011

Those are brand values that have beenbrought to its first range of bikes, that havebeen designed to ‘knock your socks off’.

Featuring frames emblazoned with Red orDead prints, the initial range includes theSeaspray, Bikeland and Ruscia Rose – theformer retailing at £399.99 and the latter at£299.99. The bikes all come with Red or Dead-designed matching bike covers, comfort saddle,comfort grips and retro styled bicycle bells.

There’s also an accessory line in the works,with Red or Dead printed cycle helmets nowavailable.

HISTORY IN THE MAKING“It's been a long journey," Red or Dead brandpresident Julia Massey tells BikeBiz. "We'vetaken the best of what Raleigh does and havemade it more beautiful."

And who is Red or Dead hoping will respondto the range? Massey explains: “The targetconsumer is the recreational cyclist who wantsan affordable and beautiful bike with greatdesign. The consumer who buys into Red orDead wants great design at an affordable price.We saw a gap in the market for a ‘fashionablebicycle’.”

Fashion and bikes haven’t always been themost likely of bedfellows. Lycra has largelybeen frowned on by the High Street, and fears

of helmet hair have been cited as off putting.With that in mind, you could argue that Red orDead is forging a path into new territory, acharge BikeBiz puts to Massey. “I hadn’t reallythought about it this way, but I guess we aretrendsetters in the bicycle world.”

The strength of the Raleigh brand,particularly in the world outside cycling, was acrucial factor in the team up, as Masseyreveals: “Raleigh is an iconic British bicyclebrand. They also make bikes that are goodquality, yet affordable. We are very proud to beworking with such a known and trusted Britishbicycle manufacturer.”

Red or Dead wouldn’t be drawn on how longthe partnership with Raleigh has been designedto last, but if the level of interest converts intosales, there could be a wider range to follow.

“Initial reaction has been most positive,”says Massey. “We expect them to be a bigsuccess and we have more ideas and designs tofollow.”

Evans Cycles currently has exclusivity on thebike range, but at the launch evening, situatedjust off London’s famous Carnaby Street lastmonth, BikeBiz was told many other retailerswere in attendance, giving the range thethumbs up, with hints of a broader retaildistribution some time in the future. http://tinyurl.com/3dyhxwc

MUCH HAS been written and said on thesubject of how to get the nation’s womencycling. And to the cycle trade’s credit, it’s atopic that the industry is getting to grips with.And really, no wonder: it’s a whole customerbase that is potentially being missed out on.

From initiatives from British Cycling, Sustransand Bike Hub, to more profit driven methodslike brands increasing product ranges to includegear that appeals to and is designed for women,there is a concerted effort to engage a broaderbike market.

Last month two British brands came togetherto launch a new range of fashion-consciousbikes and accessories primarily for the youngwomen market.

TWO WORLDS COLLIDE British fashion brand Red or Dead was launchedin the ‘80s by cycle nut Wayne Hemingway andhis wife Geraldine. From modest roots as amarket stall in Camden, Red or Dead grew torelease its first collection in 1989, boost theDoc Martin name as a fashion brand, openstores around the world, establish production inLancashire and win numerous awards.Throughout its three decades Red or Dead hasmarked itself out from others in a number ofways – not least in being a ‘brand for everyone’with an emphasis on affordability and fun.

LAUNCH REPORT | RED OR DEAD

At present, Evans Cycleshas exclusivity on theRed or Dead bike line

26 BIKEBIZ JULY BIKEBIZ.COM

Bringingsexy backIt’s not just specs that can be sexy.The bike market is ripe for anemphasis on fashion, fun andbeauty, says Red or Dead.Jonathon Harker reports from Carnaby Street...

Page 27: BikeBiz July 2011
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28 BIKEBIZ JULY BIKEBIZ.COM

Page 29: BikeBiz July 2011

PREVIEW | ICEBIKE*

cycle retailers now seem able to come toterms with. As registrations to date show thisiceBike* is gonna be another corker!

Can you reveal some of the highlights?There is plenty of what to expect at the showon the site, including new bikes from Ridgeback– the Dual Track, a 12-inch kids bike, a roadcommuter with discs and the Velocity andComet with second colours. Genesis will launchthe Madison Track at the show, which will alsosee a full suspension prototype, a 29er and theDay 01 Alfine 11.

iceBike* will have a UK ‘first look’ forHydrapak’s new accessory range andpackaging. Consumers will be able to ‘upgrade’their tired old bladders for what are widelyregarded as the ‘best on the planet’, whiledealers will be eligible for a new freestandingPOS package. Electron’s new Pico Super 2 is asuper bright bright compact 1W rear light.

Pitched as a commuter’s dream, it’s thebrightest rear light ever in the Electron rangeand one of the brightest on the market at thisprice.

Adventure will reveal two new colours ofZooms; Noddy Nose red and Teenage MutantNinja turtle green (not actual names ofcolours). iceBike* pre-orders will be deliveredfrom September.

Dealers coming to iceBike* will see arevolutionary new product called Cycra. Wecan’t talk about it yet, as we are in the middleof all the patent applications, but this productwill revolutionise the world of mudguards asyou know it. It will dramatically reduce thetime it takes to fit a traditional mudguard,offer unparalleled protection against theelements and, of course, comes withCycraGuard’s lifetime warranty.

With British Triathlon announcingrecord membership growth of 15.7

STOP THE PRESS: Due to dealer demandMadison has added two extra days toiceBike*, so the show will now run from July19th to 21st, followed by two extra days onMonday July 25th and Tuesday 26th.

Can you explain why Madison has broughticeBike* July back again for a second year?Basically, following the immense popularity oflast year’s July event, iceBike* July combines allthe smaller previously held mid-year, nextseason launch events, into one bigger show. Itis clear in today’s busy business environment itis becoming less and less easy to expect ourcustomers to spend time visiting many events.iceBike* July brings all our launches togetherinto one big 'must attend' event, held justbefore the start of the busy summer holidays.

February's iceBike* saw record attendance –what are your expectations this iceBike*?We were actually shocked by the turnout atlast year’s July iceBike* and again at this year’sFebruary show. We are very grateful that ourdealers have come to value these events. Weput our heart and soul into them and makingthem a worthwhile visit for all concerned, soit’s great that more and more dealers areattending. Event-by-event the growth isbrilliant. An investment of one day to see allthe new bikes, clothing, accessories, parts andmore is definitely something most progressive

Madison’s summer-set house show is returning this month – and now with two additional dates due topopular demand! Will Fripp tells Jonathon Harker about some of the launches, offers and more...

BIKEBIZ.COM BIKEBIZ JULY 29

ice to see you again

If your store isinterested in Triathlon,

be sure to track downProfile Design’s stand

>>>

Page 30: BikeBiz July 2011

per cent in 2010/2011, triathlonproducts are in demand like never

before. Profile Design will present entry andmid-range level suits at iceBike* to address therequirements of new and accomplishedswimmers in the growing tri market. Dealerscan book a slot to learn more about effectivelyselling wetsuits, with workshops led byThorsten Frahm, Ironman athlete and ProfileDesign European manager.

Elite will present limited edition ArionTricoloré exclusive to July’s iceBike*,celebrating 150 years of Italian unity. Thislimited edition version of the best selling Ariontraining roller is made in Elite’s Veneto factorywith stylish red, white and green rollers. Itcouldn’t be more Italian if they were carvedfrom Parmesan and delivered by Ferrari. EveryArion Tricoloré will also include two Corsabottles with an exclusive celebratory design(£6.99 each) for the same price as a standardArion. These will only be available to customerswho place their orders at iceBike*.

Respro’s ‘must stock’ range of award winninghigh visibility accessories will again be on showin time for dealers to make their choices forthe coming autumn/winter season. And, in ashock surprise, Cervélo will attend summericeBike*.

We look to help retailers plan their nextseason range plans at iceBike* and we willhave a fantastic offer pack (as always) to helpboost margins and more than cover the cost ofa day from the business,attending iceBike*. Everybrand on show will haveone or more offers on thetable.

Will new brand GoProfeature? Why isMadison so excited bythis brand? Yes, of course. We willhave a significantshowing for GoPro andwill be able to display allwe have planned topromote the brand,including a fantastic in-store POS offer.

GoPro is exciting because of the size of it.It’s the world's number one. Check our YouTubeand see how many results and views haveGoPro tags – its mega. It’s a simple range,simple proposition and a high yield brand froma small footprint and relatively low investment– especially when compared to bikes.

How important is it to pre-register? If folk need hotels in particular, we obviouslyneed to know. The more we have a feel onnumbers, the better we can cater for folk. Webasically want to ensure we deliver visitors

needs. Above and beyond the more boringoperational side – it simply speeds the wholeprocess up for everyone; register online – printyour ticket, scan in and your done – no queues– that’s the goal!

Do you expect many dealers to take part inthe BBQ and Bike ride this year? What wasparticipation like for the ride last time? We definitely expect more people to do thecompany bike ride, in fact we know it as folk

are busy signing tocome now. It’s not ascary ride – more of ajaunt – in fact lastyear some staff evendid it on bikes theyhad built upthemselves – framesand all.

Everyone had agreat time and afterthe ride you simplycome back to theevent and we have aBBQ and free bar – sitout in the sun (hopeI'm not tempting fate

here) and relax. Check out Madison MD Dom’sVideo of last year at http://t.co/MIgSRFV

More generally speaking: how's business?Settled into the new facilities now?Growth has been staggering this year, with thebudget growth expectation for the yearexceeded in the first five months. Newpremises, new warehouse management system– a huge programme of investment plannedand were only half way through – new ERPsystem and automated picking are still tocome, among other innovations to furtherincrease our service and efficiency.

“Elite will present alimited Arion Tricolorecelebrating 150 years ofItalian unity. It couldn’tbe more Italian if theycarved it from parmesanand had it delivered viaFerrari...”

Will Fripp

PREVIEW | ICEBIKE*

And how has the B2B iPhone app beenreceived by dealers? Really well, no really. We have 528 active appusers and over 1,800 logins in the last monthalone. A new version is currently indevelopment with better iPad compatibilityand a load more features.

Beyond iceBike* what is next for Madison?Any new brand signings in the works? Madison has many new brands in theascendancy like Peal Izumi, Giro footwear,Saracen, Genesis, GoPro, Madison clothing andmore – things are flying. There is always newstuff in the pipeline of course, especially withnew exciting stuff happening in own brandranges, huge investments in this area, in newexperienced talent and in tooling which willtake us on to the next level. Things are neverdull, with several international shows in themonths ahead for outdoor, cycle and snow I'msure there will be more to come.

We’re also making a bigger investment inown team sponsorships, The Madison Saracenteam model has worked really well for us andwe'll be looking for more opportunities like this.Both Genesis (for the second) and Saracen (forthe first year) will be at Eurobike – makinginroads with our own brands into Europe andthe wider market.

We also have our first account managerbased in Europe, who started this year inFrance and is making good inroads.

There is loads more on the site and allcustomers will get regular emails with eventnews as we can release stuff. There is lots moreto come between now and the show, so keepan eye out!www.icebike.co.uk

30 BIKEBIZ JULY BIKEBIZ.COM

>>>

Page 31: BikeBiz July 2011

AN ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO RETAILERS,SUPPLIERS AND SERVICES WITHIN THE CYCLE TRADE

in association with

FOR ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES CONTACT:

[email protected] or call 01992 535647

Choose your categorySERVICES AND TRAINING

Legal, insurance, Cycle To Work, sales and mechanic training, shop fitters, service centres,

printing and prototyping

E-COMMERCE AND EPOSePos, website builders

EVENT ORGANISERS, EVENTHOSTING, HOLIDAY AND HIRE

Trail and hire centres, conference, cycle tours,event organisers, venues

MEDIA AND PUBLISHINGWeb publishing, blogs, magazine,

broadcasting, freelance, books

ORGANISATIONS, CHARITYAND ASSOCIATIONS

Trade bodies, charities linked to cycling, associations

RETAILERS, WORKSHOP AND MAIL ORDERRetail of all shapes and sizes, maintenance

both in house and mobile, online sales

DISTRIBUTION AND WHOLESALEImporters, wholesalers, dealer/distributors

MANUFACTURER, STANDALONE BRANDS,FRAMEBUILDERS AND AGENTS

Any brands with own distribution,UK based manufacturers, agents

MARKETING, PR AND CONSULTANCYConsultants, freelance, PR, copywriting services

GET YOURFREE 2012 LISTING!

Company Name: …………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Address: ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Telephone number: ……………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Website: …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Category: ……………………………………………………………………...................................................................

Email (for office use only): ……………………………………………………………………………………..

COMPLETE AND RETURN THIS FORM TODAY FOR YOUR FREE LISTING IN THE 2012 BIKEBIZ BIBLE:(You only need to complete this form once)

Please return this form by email to [email protected] or by fax to 01992 535 648or by post to: BikeBiz Bible, Intent Media, Saxon House, 6a St Andrew Street, Hertford SG14 1JA

If you have any questions please contact [email protected]

Page 32: BikeBiz July 2011

Win over £1000 worthof kit

2PURE | COMPETITION

Crank Brothers product range hascome a long way since the days ofthe groundbreaking eggbeater

pedals. Their product range is now up toeleven categories: pedals, wheelsets,bars, stems, head sets, saddles,seatposts, pumps, tools, bags andaccessories.

New for 2011 are the Cobalt 2, 3 and 11wheelsets, with the Cobalt 2 weighing1690g and the 3 weighing 1500g. TheCobalt 11 is the first Carbon wheel fromCrank Brothers. Weighing in at just 1380g,this is the lightest wheel they have everproduced. Not only has the weight beenkept down, the price has been kept down

too - coming in at a very reasonable£1599.99 for a premium carbon wheelset.

Also new for 2011 are the Iodine saddles.Each and every saddle is handcrafted inItaly from Italian leathers and comes withreplaceable rails and new noseflextechnology.

Many Crank Brothers products now comewith a 5 year warranty. Eggbeater andCandy 2, 3 and 11 pedals fall under the 5year guarantee. This offers customerscomplete peace of mind and allows yourstaff to sell with confidence.

See the full range atwww.crankbrothers.com

Page 33: BikeBiz July 2011

1 How many years warranty will your customers have with Candy 3 pedals?

2 What is the difference in weight between a Cobalt 2 and Cobalt 3 wheel?

3 In which country are Iodine saddles handmade?

Simply email your answers plus your name, contact telephone number and company to

[email protected] will be picked at random and notified by August 31st 2011

2pure are UK distributors of Crank Brothers, Ibis, Clif Bar, De Marchi,Feedback Sports, Jimi, Lizard Skins, NiteRider, Paceline, Pedro's, Pinhead.

2pure Ltd. 46c Bavelaw Rd, Balerno, Edinburgh, EH14 7AE

0844 811 2001

2PURE | COMPETITION

We are giving away a full Cobalt 3 kit worth £1015 - Wheelset,Stem, Seatpost, Handlebars, Grips, Saddle (Iodine)

We have 30 pairs of Candy 3 pedals worth £94.99 for runners up.

TOP PRIZE

RUNNERS UP

Answer these simple questions

to be in with a chance of winning:

Page 34: BikeBiz July 2011
Page 35: BikeBiz July 2011

BRAND SPOTLIGHT | ISKUTE

their portfolio to weather the storm whileproducing quality scooters. Maker explains:“Kids started to use scooters in skate parks.There was a surge in using them for tricks andhigh performance.”

The shift to trick-orientated performance ledto manufacturers altering their product tostand up to the rigours of jumps and the like. Anumber of new brands emerged to takeadvantage of that changing use, initiallymaking robust P&A for the rigours of theemerging sport.Those new playershave since moved tooffer completescooters.

“There are acouple of brandsdoing a great jobnow. Grit, Madd Gearand Dogg Scootersare among some of the best,” Maker says. Manybrands serving the sector are anticipatinghealthy sales over the coming months. “Weexpect kick scooters to be very strong throughsummer and Christmas.”

THE NITTY GRITTY Globally the skate park kick scooter movementstarted in the USA and has since been pickedup in Australia and the UK. Firmly placed inthat market is Grit. Two year old Grit is ownedby Australian Brett Varga and is arguablyamong the leading brands there.

“Grit has developed its product as the sporthas developed. From what the kids have beendoing in the skate parks, Grit has matched itsproducts accordingly with great feedback fromthe team and listening to the users via

Facebook and the forums. Grit continues tolisten to the users and continues to push itsproduction team to the limits.”

One of Grit’s USPs is its readiness for theafter-market market for upgrades. While othersmaller brands offer certain OEM components,Grit offers the full gamut of parts. Maker says:“Almost all of the Grit parts can be used onany other scooter in the market for thatcomplete custom set up. For retailers theyoffer phenomenal value and great margin.

“The lower-endkick scooters mightbe selling well, but wedon’t see the marketlike that. We see it ashigh end, high quality.That’s what we’reaiming for. Instead ofthe price being drivendown, like in the old

days, it is the complete opposite. The betterquality and design is driving the price up.”

iSkute is the exclusive European distributorfor Grit Performance Scooters. iSkute hasappointed TKC as a sub-distributor workingonly in the skate market, leaving iSkute toconcentrate fully on bringing Grit to the bikebiz. “We have good stocks now, but our biggestchallenge is keeping up with demand. We havemore stock arriving, but it is often sold beforeit arrives. We are advising dealers to reserve thestock they need,” Maker tells BikeBiz. “Themarket is in its infancy, but you can’t denyhow popular it is. The learning curve is mucheasier than on a BMX or skateboard. That iswhy the sector is expanding so quickly,” Makerconcludes. [email protected]

THE KICK SCOOTER is enjoying a renaissance,to put it mildly. From the street to the skatepark, the phenomenon is becoming morewidely seen than ever before.

To the uninitiated the appeal of kickscooters may seem a bit of a mystery. So let’sstart with some history.

Scooters have been around for decades, butabout 11 or 12 years ago the kick scootermarket was booming. Dan Maker was asignificant player in the market back then,being sole distributor for the Micro Scooterbrand into the cycle market. He tells BikeBiz:

“Back then scooters were high value andgreat quality, used by adults and kids. Initiallythey were used as commuting tools becausethey were lightweight and folded easily so youcould carry them on the train or put them inthe car. As the market grew, more kids startedusing them, because of the ease of useenabling kids some independence ona product that was easier to ridethan a bike. We had about 16months where we could not hang on tothe demand. It was amazing”

But the burgeoning sector was soon totake a turn for the worse. Maker explains:“As the popularity of the sector grew, evergreater numbers of companies flooded themarket with scooters – particularly at thetoy end of the market – and many werecheap, poor quality and badly marketed.Some guys stuck around, but the marginhad been destroyed and manyindependent stores got out.”

The flood of product led Maker’s firm toexit the sector. Despite the market saturationback then, major players – like JD Bug, Razorand Micro Scooter – remained, diversifying

“We see the scooter marketas high end. Better quality

and design is driving theprice of kick scooters up.”

Dan Maker, iSkute

True GritLove them or loathe them,

it’s hard to deny that the kickscooter craze is getting

bigger and coming to a townnear you. Distributor iSkute’s

Dan Maker speaks toJonathon Harker about the

potential of the growingmarket and the Grit brand...

BIKEBIZ.COM BIKEBIZ JULY 35

Grit targets the skatepark and performancescooter market

Page 36: BikeBiz July 2011
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ACTSMART | INSURANCE

� Before any improvements to the security aremade, retailers should check that theirpremises are not within conservation areas.This could result in external security measuresbeing prohibited. Certain securityimprovements may require planning consentand it is important to ensure that anyadditional security does not contravene fireescape requirements. � Although protection of property and stock isthe key objective, making a high standard ofsecurity very evident is more likely to preventany attempt in the first place. Consider howyour security compares with other similarpremises in the area.� The threat of ram raids can be limited byinstalling either static or retractable bollardsacross the front of the property, subject to thenecessary permissions.� Fit good quality mortice deadlocks toBS3621 or equivalent to all external doors -excluding designated fire escape doors.� Ensure that the panic release facilities onfire exit doors are maintained in a goodcondition and that the securing bolts fullyengage when the doors are closed.� Check that the door frames are secured tothe fabric of the building and fit hinge bolts toall outward opening external doors� All external timber doors should be of asolid timber construction, if not strengthenthem externally with sheet steel or considerreplacing the doors with solid timber ones.� Fit key operated window locks to all groundfloor, basement and accessible upper flooropening windows i.e. those close to flat roofs,balconies, drain pipes, external staircases andthe like.� Consider the installation of solid rollershutters in very vulnerable areas, for displaywindows and doors with extensive glasspanelling,

� Where solid roller shutters aren’t fitted,consider leaving some lights on within thesales area out of business hours and installsecurity lighting in any particularly vulnerableareas, such as at the rear of the shop, or withina secluded side entrance way.� Where there are vulnerable smallerwindows, sky lights or roof lights considersecuring them with steel bars or grills.� Install chains through the frames of thebikes and secure to the fabric of the building,removing high value items from easilyaccessible areas, securing them separately outof business hours.� Do not leave large amounts of cash on thepremises overnight, take it to the bankfrequently. Any cash kept on the premisesshould be locked in a suitably rated safeanchored to the building structure.� Consider electronic protection. Install a goodquality (PD6662 - European Grade 3) intruderalarm system, linked to an approved AlarmReceiving Centre. Ensure that the system iscertificated and maintained by an NSI or SSAIBapproved alarm company and that it benefitsfrom Level 1 police response.� Consider the installation of a CCTV systemby an NSI or SSAIB installer and in particularlyhigh risk areas where there has been a historyof thefts, review the use of a security foggenerating system, activated by the intruderalarm system.

CALL IN THE SPECIALISTS?If you are uncertain about your insurancecover, or simply want to test the value of yourcover against specialist insurance at nextrenewal, contact Butterworth Spengler on0844 764 6464. Alternatively, simply [email protected] with your business nameand renewal date and we’ll arrange a contactcall.

Beat the thieves!The first half of 2011 has seen cycle retailers challenged by the economy on two fronts – reducedconsumer spend and a growing number of shop thefts. ActSmart asked specialist business insurancepartner Butterworth Spengler for their top 15 tips on shop security...

“With the help ofActSmart and Butterworth

Spengler, I had a brandnew policy within seven

hours and I saved £300 offthe renewal premium from

my previous insurer.”Allan Boult, Blazing Saddles,

West Yorkshire June 2011

For more information callActSmart on

The Cycle shops policy includes asstandard:

� A 50 per cent increase in stock levels for any three month period in a year

� Road testing/demonstration by customers

� Road testing by staff following repair/servicing

� Cycle hire� Public liability indemnity of

£2,000,000� Theft of cycles on display outside of the shop� Up to 30 per cent no claims

discount

ACT Members also benefit from:

� A membership discount on the policy.

� A loyalty bonus at each renewal� A reduced minimum premium

of £300� ‘Demonstration day’ cover

included free of charge

0845 618 7256www.actsmart.biz

BIKEBIZ.COM BIKEBIZ JULY 37

Butterworth Spenglerhas over 20 yearsexperience withinspecialist insurance

Page 38: BikeBiz July 2011

890 EXHIBITORS are signed up to the July 14thto 17th Outdoor Trade Fair held at the verysame Friedrichshafen location as Eurobike'sannual bicycle trade meet.

“It never ceases to amaze me how much anindustry can change in collective terms as theresult of one Outdoor show,” said Mark Held,secretary general of the European OutdoorGroup (EOG). "Nearly all the industryassociation’s members will be on hand inFriedrichshafen. Never before has there been a

higher proportion of international exhibitors atthe trade fair. The total number of exhibitorshas risen this year by another three per cent,taking the grand total to 890."

The exhibition will be split into hallscontaining sections such as the 'World of Tents',an 'outdoor fashion show' and a dedicated areafor the show's industry awards.

For more information on the Outdoor tradefair, log on to www.outdoor-show.com. LikeEurobike, it is advised booking well ahead.

Dipping a toe into sectorsbeyond cycling? BikeBizprovides the month’s newsfrom related markets...

OFF THE RECORDN

EW P

ROD

UC

TS The Sleeping Pod has been designed tooffer unrestricted body movement forthe user, upping comfort levelsconsiderably. With a unique shape, thePod allows for the sleeper to go intofoetal position, curl up and sleep in anaturally comfortable position.

The Sleeping Pod won a 2010Camping Magazine Award and comes ina variety of colours, Camo Flora, Illusion,Camo Sphere, cocoa/Spinach green,Mars Red and Bluejay. RRP is £44.99 andit is available only from Gelert (01766510 300).

The Mongoose 2 Tent is pitched (ho ho)as a professional backpacking tentoffering lightweight, compact andversatile features. Ideal for adventurouscampers or hikers, the tent is quick topitch and, crucially, has a small packsize.

With a front storage area andreinforced pegging points, theinner, made of 190Tbreathable polyester, canbe used on its own inhot climates. Theouterdimensions are

317(l) by 240 (w) and 100 (h) cm. The Mongoose 2 features fibreglass

poles and taped seams, Retail price is£64.99 and the tent is available fromGelert (01766 510 300).

MONGOOSE 2 TENT SLEEPING POD SLEEPING BAG

38 BIKEBIZ JULY BIKEBIZ.COM

Trade show set to fill thevery same Freidrichshafenexhibition halls asEurobike later thismonth...

“We’ve 890exhibitors atthe show thisyear...”

Mark Held

OutDoor Fair to host record numbers

Page 39: BikeBiz July 2011

NEWS IN BRIEF

SKI SLOPES IN Argentina were covered in ashfollowing eruptions in the Puyehye-Cordon-Caulle volcano range in Chile at the beginningof June.

First Tracks Online reported that the slopesof Bariloche and Villa la Angostura were worstaffected by the effects of the ash cloud, justweeks before the start of the ski andsnowboard season. The cost of the eruption onlocal businesses are yet to be estimated.

The ash cloud has been pushed from the siteof the explosion in Chile to Southern Argentinaand back again, according to the BBC, and isthe first serious volcano eruption in the areafor over fifty years.

4,000 residents had been evacuated fromthe area at time of press, with many morelikely to move with fears the ash willcontaminate areas and clog rivers, leadingthem to flood.

The cost of theongoingeruption tolocal businessis yet to beestimated

Take it outdoors:Outdoor pursuitsretail financeFollowing the Ride It Away cycle financescheme (worth over £20m per annum),ActSmart, in partnership with Moneyway,has launched a brand new retail financescheme for outdoors retailers: Take itoutdoors.

The scheme is now live, enabling retailersto sell customers all the outdoorsequipment, clothing and accessories theywant on finance. For more info callActSmart: 0845 618 7256. There’s morefrom the firm on page 37.

Go Outdoors strikes£30m with Lloydsbanking groupSheffiled-based Go Outdoors hasannounced it will create hundreds of jobshaving secured the financial backing of TheLloyds Banking Group.

The financial backing, worth £30 million,will see the opening of ten new stores,estimated to create around 500 new jobsin the next year.

The backing also gives the companysolid ground to progress its own brandaspirations in the form of clothing brandsNorth Ridge and Freedom Trail.

David Hunt, relationship director forLloyds Bank Corporate Markets in Sheffield,said: “GO Outdoors has outperformedgrowth forecasts year after year and weare delighted to be able to continuesupporting its expansion plans.”

Timberland bought in£1.2 billion dealShoe manufacturer Timberland has beenbought out by American retailer VF Corp,the owner of North Face and Wrangler.

The addition of Timberland andSmartwool brands, which has also beenbought by VF Group, is expected to boostVF's outdoor and action sports business to50 per cent of total revenues. Plans are

now in place to expand the brand.

HILLSOUND EQUIPMENT has joined theArdblair Sports Importers portfolio, withdistribution starting this year.

The Hillsound brand designed and developeda glacier crampon for the US in 2007, takingadvantage of a gap in the market for a lessaggressive and easy to use crampon for localmountain trails. The firm launched the TrailCrampon and Pro in 2008.

Key current product, the Hillsound TrailCrampon, is designed for diverse winter terrainsand weather conditions. Using an ergonomicplate system, the crampon serves up enhanced

traction and less muscular fatigue for winterwilderness pursuits.

The Trail Crampon Pro is made from heat-treated S50C carbon steel. The ten-point TrailCrampon Pro weighs a light 680 grams perpair, making it ideal for glacier travel, and icyor snowy approaches.

Hillsound Equipment has an urban friendlycrampon in the works, called FreeSteps. Aimedat the mass market the FreeSteps will launchat Summer Outdoor Retailer Show 2011, heldin Salt Lake City.www.hillsound.ca

Ardblair snaps up Hillsound

OFF THE RECORD

Garmin has revealed theMontana – a handheldtouchscreen GPS devicedesigned for use on foot, on thewater and in the car. Sporting a large dual-orientationscreen, the versatile GPS has abarometric altimeter forelevation profiling, routingfunctions using pre-loaded high-definition worldwide mappingand a clever built-in three-axiscompass for use when standingstill or held at an angle.

The generousfour-inchtouchscreen isglove-friendly andreadable even inbright sunshine. Retail price startsat £429.99 for theMontana 600 and£549.99 for thebasemap-packedMontana 650tedition.www.garmin.com

British company Montane has alreadywon an award for its new SabretoothGloves despite them not having gone onsale yet. Due to retail this autumn (aspart of Montane’s autumn/winter range),the gloves won a Polartec European APEXDesign Award at the 2011 ceremony.

Constructed with Polartec’s PowerShield soft shell breathable and waterrepellant fabric, the Sabretooth gloves areideal for high exertion in cold conditions.The close-fitting gloves feature roll tipfinger construction for improveddexterity, a seam-free inside lower wrist

for comfort, and a brushed tricot liningthroughout for increased wicking. www.montane.co.uk

SABRETOOTH GLOVES, MONTANE

BIKEBIZ.COM BIKEBIZ JULY 39

GARMIN MONTANA

Ash cloud halts thesnow season’s kick off

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PEOPLE | RECRUITMENT

Send your recruitment news [email protected]

i-Ride welcomes Guest to sales and customer service team � Engel is back in bikes, now with Endura

42 BIKEBIZ JULY BIKEBIZ.COM

Duo sale into new roles at Eurobike Hatchman’s role at Eurobike will be varied,covering administration, invoicing andaccounts, as well as focusing on Eurobike’sgrowing dealer base from the office. Hatchmancan be contacted on 01332 774796.

� I-RIDE i-Ride has welcomed aboard JAMESGUEST to the company’s sales and customerservice team.

Paul Butler, managing director of i-Ride, said:“James is joining the inside sales and customerservice team where his main focus is ensuringthat we are constantly striving to meet theneeds of our stockists with regular updates onstock, new products and working to findsolutions that keep our retailers businessesrunning smoothly.”

Andy Westlake, finance director, added: “Iwas impressed by James’ friendly manner and

enthusiasm to help. James joins the companyafter several years of cycle retail experienceand this understanding will aid him inproviding excellent service to our customers.”

� ENDURA KATRIN ENGEL is back in thebike trade following a brief stint within thepublic relations department of a Europeanrunning shoe manufacturer. Having previouslyworked with apparel brand Sugoi, Engel is afamiliar face within the bike business, part ofthe reason Endura has appointed her as itsmarketing coordinator.

Based at the company’s headquarters inLivingston, West Lothian, Engel will coordinateEndura’s marketing activities across the UK.

The native German will be in charge of PR,advertising and events organisation from apublic relations perspective.

� EUROBIKE Eurobike has strengthened itsin-house and on-the-road team with two freshappointments. The first is RODNEY ROUSE,the firm’s new sales manager for the South.

Russ Masters of Eurobike said of theappointment: “Rod is our new man in thesouth. He comes to us with a wealth ofknowledge in the cycle industry, spending thelast two years as a rep on the road for Pactimoclothing and sports eyewear. He’s achieved firstcategory status on the road and riding atnational points level off-road. His experiencehas helped him form good relationships withour growing dealer base.”

Retailers in the South can now contactRouse on 07584 102804, or [email protected]

Secondly, CAROLINE HATCHMAN,previously of Planet X, joins Eurobike.

Rodney Rouse

Katrin Engel

Page 43: BikeBiz July 2011

BIKEBIZ.COM BIKEBIZ JULY 43

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RETAILCOMMENT

[email protected]

IN THIS MONTH’S ISSUEDEALER PROFILE 46Mystery Shopper’s first top marks rated bicycle store RedPlanet Bikes talks about the key to successful business...

BICYCLE MOTOCROSS 49You’ve read the nostalgic soppyness above, now back tobusiness. Who sells what in this sector? See 49 for answers...

LUGGAGE SOLUTIONS 57Another sector guide geared toward the retailer sellingbundles of panniers, racks, backpacks and more...

FEW IN THIS business will be able to recount their early daysof riding without telling stories of busting skids through pilesof leaves, or seeing how far they could jump a bike from thekerb outside their home. Even today, many of us will still racetop speed toward a shallow ford just because a little bit ofthat inner child still lives on the inside.

I read with interest this month the Charge Bikes catalogueeditorial pieces on the brand’s roster of sponsored riders.Nearly every rider within stated their roots stem from jumpbikes, BMX, any bike on which they could get away withgrabbing a bit of air without bending the forks into a positionresembling a beach cruiser. And look where they are now –

cyclists of all kinds, embracing and creating styles of ridingboth fresh and established.

The content revived some fond memories, yetsimultaneously brought about the damning reality that therewill come a time when I’m simply too old to ‘grab some air’.It is then that I will have to concede that I’ve made thattransition from BMX rider to cross country geek, or roadcyclist. Whether I care to admit it or not, it’s happeningalready and I’m stuggling to know how to feel. On the onehand I’m sad that, because of creaky knees and weakenedankles, gravity seems to be pulling harder with each jump.On the flipside, cycling has a hell of a lot of alternatives tooffer and in one form or another i’ll always be excited to trya new bike, test a new bit of kit and ultimately build acollection of rigs to further clog my garage.

With BMX in focus in this issue it seems fitting topromote this sector with all the energy that gets me ‘stoked’to leave my desk bang on 6pm each day, just so I can getout there and stick my middle finger up at gravity just a fewmore times. Why? Because I’m biased towards it? Well, yesand no. This sector animates me for many reasons. Digbeneath the surface, past the “have you seen the triplebackflip?” and debates about 20-inch heroes from eras goneby and it all comes down to the notion that BMX is acatalyst for many things.

First off, it’s a guarantee of a bloomin’ good, trouble-freechildhood, tooth separating and tail bone breaking aside. Butmost of all, it’s a stepping stone into the vibrant world ofcycling. And that’s where this article finally reaches ‘thepoint’. Whether or not BMX is to hit dizzying heights only toall but dissapear again is up for debate, but for the time beingthese customers must be embraced. They are the future ofthis business. Future cyclists, in one form or another.

“BMX is a catalyst for many things. Abloomin’ good childhood and theconversion into future cyclists...”

RETAIL ONLYThe trade’s guide to sourcing stock, up-and-coming IBDs and the very latest products

Page 46: BikeBiz July 2011

Following an intriguing mystery shopper visit to Red Planet, BikeBiz couldn’t resist finding out moreabout this star performer, it’s famous coffee and fondness of UK bike brands. Mark Sutton discusses bizwith store co-owner Ivor Read…

Tell us a bit about your background in thebike trade:Well there came a time when we realised wewere pretty much in the bike business. Apartfrom our day jobs, you’d find us running pits forteams at the 24-hour races, guiding, manningstands at the London Bike show, all sorts. Plus,my partner and myself were both professionalmanagers with all the management andfinancial training behind us and that’s how RedPlanet began.

When BikeBiz visited it was clear that staffwere enthusiasts – why do you feel itimportant to have keen cyclists representingthe business?We are a shop that targets the enthusiast. Youcan only sell product to those guys and girls ifyou ride, understand and talk their language.We need to have used the product ourselves sowe can relate its use to a customer’s ridingstyles.

BikeBiz also got the impression that you’re abig fan of homegrown bike manufacturers –why is this?They are more fun. From a business perspectiverare and oddball stuff pulls people in just tolook.

For riding, and hence selling, they are moreinteresting. The smaller, rider driven companies,make bikes with character, once you havestarted a conversation with a customer you canexplain how and why that is. They are thenmore tied in to you and hopefully looking for a

more unique product that’s hard to find cheapin a chain store.

What trends if any have you seen emergeover the past years?Well we have seen the emergence and thendominance of carbon road bikes. Now we areseeing a move back to custom builds, especiallyTitanium. It’s like people are reacting againstthe ubiquitous carbon bike, but obviously wantthe performance still.

Mountain biking is full of trends and niches,but the biggest change is from the old stylexc/trailquest rider to the trail park rider. Loadsof people rarely seem to mountainbike outsideof the manmade stuff now.

Do you foresee the 29-inch wheel becominga strong seller in the UK?For the first time we’d say yes. We have soldmore real off road 29ers in the last eightmonths than in the four years preceding themadded together, plus half the staff purchases inthe last year have been 29-inch.

You can offer custom bike fitting – why isthis service important for your clientele?Proper bike fit is essential to getting a perfectroad bike. A set of bike fit diagrams is the singlebest way customers can make informeddecisions about what bikes are right for themand their desired use. With this informationthey don’t just have to blindly believe our salesrepresentative when we tell them which bikeswill work for them.

Telephone: 01793 522 211Email: [email protected]: www.redplanetbikes.co.uk

Address: 7 Wood Street, Old Town, Swindon, Wilts, SN1 4AN

How involved is the shop with the localcycling scene? Attend or run any events?All the time, we compete in a lot of localevents (alright not from the front of the field)unless we are marshalling them. You will see ourvan all over the south in event car parks.

How much do the following affect how wellthe business performs:Cycle to work business: This is a useful baseline income and it does get some people intobecoming regular cyclists.The Workshop: It’s where we build ourreputation, by the quality and depth ofknowledge, but not where we make our money.Finance support: This is more important to thechains and discount guys, I feel. A lot of ourcustomers already know how much to expectto spend and where the money is coming from.

Are there any things that are causing thebusiness concern at present? This year the changes to the Cycle To Work buyback have made things complicated. Of course,a long wet summer would be much worse.Perhaps the lack of 29-inch tyres at oursupplier’s warehouses needs flagging up too.

What sets Red Planet apart from the localcompetition?Our coffee, oh... and that and we spend timewith customers.

What are your aspirations for Red Planet?To have fun, ride nice bikes and not starve!

Red Planet has sold“more 29ers in the

last eight monthsthan the preceding

four years.”

Red Planet Bikes

Red hot wheelie poppers

IBD | PROFILE

46 BIKEBIZ JULY BIKEBIZ.COM

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BIKEBIZ.COM BIKEBIZ JULY 47

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48 BIKEBIZ JULY BIKEBIZ.COM

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Deluxe BMXAVAILABLE FOR pre-order now, Deluxehas two new signature frames comingdesigned in collaboration with trailsrippers Max Bimar and Mark Potoczny.

The former, Bimar's frame, will bemade in three sizes – 21.3, 21 and 20.7top tube – with a nice planted 74degree head angle and 8.6-inchstandover height making it perfect fortrails. The brake lugs are weldedon this model.

Secondly,Potoczny's

frame offers a slightly longer top tube,reaching 21.5-inches, 21 and 20.7. Theframe, dubbed the Sacre Bleu, hasremovable brake mounts, a mid bottombracket and angle-capped rear stays.

Deluxe BMX now deals directly withthe trade and can be contacted [email protected] or via 05602796039.

IsonISON HAS a strong range of BMXbrands, including complete bikes fromKHE. These generously specced bikesoffer good value at all price levels,including signature lines fromprofessional rider Daniel Dhers.

Prices start at £269.99 for a 23/9geared build dubbed theRoot 180. KHE alsohas just about everyBMX partneeded

for component upgrades, included itsground-breaking superlight folding tyresand freecoaster hubs.

Gusset is another brand that hasBMX-specific stems, forks, grips, pedals,saddles and much more in the range.The brand new Woodstock cranksfeature a bossless design and aremanufactured from Reynolds 853 tubingmaking them superlight, yet very strong.The bossless design means that they fitdirectly onto the axle splines, theWoodstock compatible chainrings andspiders are also available.

Protective gear brand TSG covers anyprotective gear needs, while Ison alsosupplies Dia Compe brakes, as well asODI, which has arguably the mostpopular grip on the market.01353 662662

Attention,Bicycle

Moto-shopsBMX is expanding at a rapid rate, with the

majority of specialists within the sectorupping their orders from factory sourceseach and every year. Mark Sutton callsaround the distributors to find out how

retailers can benefit from stocking 20-inchspecific goods…

SECTOR GUIDE | BMX

BIKEBIZ.COM BIKEBIZ JULY 49

SeventiesBICYCLE MOTOCROSS goliath

Seventies has perhaps the largest BMXexclusive catalogue of any distributor inthe UK, importing brands such as Kink,Cult, DUB, Macneil and Subrosa, amongmany others, as well as designing itsown Federal brand in house.

With lower-end BMX bikes constantlystriving to achieve better value formoney, Kink's line has been revamped toinclude lightweight Spanish stylebottom brackets on all but the verycheapest in its extensive catalogue. Witha shipment due later this month and afurther batch due before the Christmasrush, dealers are encouraged to getorders in early to avoid disappointmenton all Seventies’ sought after completebike brands.

As one of the best selling forks on themarket at present, dealers stockingBMX in depth should take alook at Federal's new Dropfork, retailing at£119.99. Basedaround the classicoffset and length ofthe 20/20 fork, it alsoretains the same

material andheat treatment spec, however theshape of the dropout and the bottomof the fork leg have both beenredesigned to create a stronger andcleaner looking junction with betterclearance.

Robbie Morales' Cult brand is foundunder the Seventies umbrella and sinceits first shipments into the UK over ayear ago, the brand has been a favouritewith skate park and street riders alike.For those really committing to BMXproduct, the Cult brand's soft goods lineis emerging as a favourite too. The newSnapback hat is a one size fits all,embroided flat peak, a style which istrending in the sector at present. Theseretail for £24.99.

Seventies will repeat its 30,000 pluscatalogue print run this year, plus take astand at the Cycle Show to be held at theNEC, pushing each of the complete bikebrands under itsbanner throughout.0845 3103670

>>>Celebrating its 10th year, the UK’s leadingCycle Show heads to NEC, Birminghamon 29 Sep - 2 October 2011.

Register for your FREE trade pass atwww.cycleshow.co.uk/register for more information’

Page 50: BikeBiz July 2011
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SECTOR GUIDE | BMX

BIKEBIZ.COM BIKEBIZ JULY 51

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>>>

ShinerDISTRIBUTORS FOR Duo, Redline, SEBikes, Swobo and Verde have plenty tooffer the retailer interested in stocking20-inch bikes.

Verde has made a big impact on theUK BMX business, despite being arelatively new company to the UK.Having just won Ride to Glory, thebrand's name is bigger than ever. Theline spans entry-level, through to moreprofessional suitedbuilds. Beginningwith the Cadet,dealers will find25/9 gearing at thelowest price point.

Combining anumber ofcomponents fromrespected brandssuch as Odyssey(cranks) and Cinema(rims), Verde's range

topping Luxe is designed trendy, withtanwall tyres standing out against an allblack backdrop. AT this price point theframe is built from 100 per centchromoly and carries an investmentcast, integrated head tube.

Made in the USA by grip specialistODI, Duo's Corey Martinez's signaturegrips are medium thickness throughoutwith a reduced size flange. Bar ends aresupplied with this model.0117 955 6035

MadisonBELL'S LINK up withCalifornian artistJimbo Phillipscontinues to giveBell a unique designedge overcompetition. Thecollaboration hasbrought the artist'siconic screaming handdrawings and more from the skatescene and plastered it, among otherdesigns, over a selection of helmets inthe Bell line.

The BMX-suited Faction lid is justone to receive Jimbo's artwork. The12-vent lid is ridden by a number of top-level riders. A high impact ABS shelloffers great protection in the event of aslam, though it's not a particularly

heavy unit at just 426 grams. The lidmeets CE EN178 and ASTM 1492 safetyregulations.

The package comes withcustomisable plush internal padding andadjustable straps meaning the rider canachieve a comfortable, yet secure fit. 0208 385 3385

Coyote SportsCOYOTE SPORTS exclusively distributesthe Skyway brand, famed for its BMXparts and accessories line.

The 80’s brand is still going strongand the range is expanding on aconstant basis. The wheel line consistsof the notorious Skyway Tuff II magwheels, coloured coded BMX Grips,locking grips and brake pads.

Coyote also stocks Skyway saddlesand again, keeping to the 80’s retro style,has brought about the re-introduction ofthe EZ and EZ Pro handlebars.

With new colours of Tuff II mags,matching grips and brake pads arrivingwith the distributor soon, the range willexpand to include lavender and, laterthis year, red. To view the productportfolio visit www.coyote-sports.com,or contact the sales team on0161 727 8508.

RaleighNEW THIS year from Diamondback,aside from the new bike line, is aninnovative range of products madeusing UV reactant dyes allowing theproducts to change colourunder sunlight.

“These parts are greatfor younger riders. Itallows a new level ofcustomisation. I’ve madesure the highest level ofquality has been achievedbefore I opted to use theUV technology. Riders cantrust that the productworks, regardless of thecolour changing,” saysDiamondback productmanager Andy Parker.

UV Reactant technology is availableon saddles, grips and pedals in fourcolour variations. All products, includingcomplete bikes, are in stock withRaleigh now.01773 532600

Split SecondImportsCARRYING four complete bike brandsfor BMX, two of which are designed inhouse, Split Second Imports has allbudgets and spec levels covered.

For the entry-level to intermediatecustomer, Split Second's own UKdesigned brands Ruption and Blankcover price points from £199.99through £399.99, while the

intermediate to high-end brands,Eastern and Stolen sell from £259.99right through the other side of £700.

Whilst Ruption and Blank do offer acouple of beginner models, such as theFrank and Force, with large sprocketsand one-piece cranks, it is really themicro-geared 25/9T models that arewhere the interest lies for all retailers ofBMX. As such, for the 2012 ranges, bothBlank and Ruption will be offering 25/9-geared models with a one-piece crankto help bring the price down.

Pro-Tec's helmet line can also befound under the Split Second banner.The firm has also recently taken deliveryof a one-off helmet collaborationbetween Pro-Tec and Odyssey, carryinga very retro 80s design. 01934 743888

Page 52: BikeBiz July 2011

Upgrade BikesDMR PEDALS are widely thought of assome of the best across all jumpsectors, including BMX. Available inmultiple colours, sealed and unsealedand with replaceable pins, there's apedal for everyone.

Though it’s the new Vault pedals thatare causing a storm in the mountain

bike world, theV8 and V12models remainfavourites inthe BMXmarket.Starting at£27.99, the V8sare bothaffordable anddurable.

Furthercrossoverbetween DMR's

jump product and BMX can be seenwith the brand's seat posts. Offeringboth a pivotal and a railed design, thebrand caters for all. At £2.99, the CNCmachines Tilt post is again, veryaffordable and comes in six brightcolours. What's more, buyers get aninternal fluted post, which is bothstrong and lightweight. 01403 711 611

Fisher OutdoorsSUPPORTER OF the Stay Strongfoundation, Fisher Outdoors isincreasingly involved with BMX andthis year has a strong line ofprotective gear on sale from Troy LeeDesigns.

Being the protection brand ofchoice for Olympic BMX rider ShanazeReade, Troy Lee has a loyal following ofconsumers. The range includes thepopular Lopes and T-Bone Knee Guards.The Lopes was designed with nine timesNORBA champion Brian Lopes with aunique two-piece inner neoprene sleeveand polycarbonate guard. Retail price forthis protective unit is £79.99.

If it's knee guards your customer isseeking, take a look at the T-Boneguards from Troy Lee. These aredesigned to be flexible and comfortable

with breathability and streamline fit. Aset will cost £54.99 at retail.

Full details can be found atwww.fisherb2b.co.uk, or alternatively bycontacting your territory accountmanager.01727 798345

2pureINEVITABLY WHAT goes up must comedown and within BMX, what comesdown often comes down hard. That'swhy Lizard Skins has an extensive line ofprotective gear ranging from £19.99guards for children, to £49.99 softcellknee and shin combination guards. Twosizes are available for all adult guards –small to medium and large to extralarge.

The brand's knee and shin guards aredesigned with clever anti-slip featuresto hold them firmly to the rider's legs.Ventilation features too, while multipleVelcro straps allow the user to adjustthe padding to the contours of theirshape.

Elbow guards featuring many of thesame design ideas, including a moisturewicking mesh lining, are also availablefrom 2pure and come priced at £36.99retail.0844 811 2001

SECTOR GUIDE | BMX

Moore LargeCARRYING PERHAPS the mostestablished BMX brand in the world,Moore Large imports Haro's catalogue,as well as it's sister brand PremiumProducts, which itself now sellscomplete bikes.

Changes have been made throughoutto the spec, colours and graphics, withfurther tweaks made to the cataloguewith the addition and removal of a fewmodels due to the market demand.

For 2012 there will be a new rangecalled "350 Series". This slots in betweenthe 300 and 400 series and coverspopular retail price pointsaround £369 to £399.

PremiumProductsthisyear hasthreenewmodels– the

Inception, Spire and lower-pricedbrakeless build, the Subway. Chromebars and fatter tyres feature in keepingwith current trends.

Moore Large also stock Savage - acomprehensive range of affordable,colourful BMX components. Newadditions to the growing range are BMXbars, nylon pegs, grips, end plugs, stems,pivotal saddles and seatposts,chainwheels and valve caps.01332 274200

IMGDistributionIMG IS THE UK representative of anumber of BMX brands, includingperhaps the most widely stocked, thecomprehensive Odyssey catalogue.Retailers have access to brands such asIlegal, Sunday, Season, G-sport, Fly Bikesand in-house designed Proper.

Having just released its debut DVD,the Proper team is more in focus thanever, trending both here in the UK andin many territories abroad. With mostcomponent areas covered by the brand,including accessories such as hub guardstailored to its own hubs, retailerswouldn't go wrong in carrying this linein its entirety. Expect multiple coloursand well thought out design throughout.

Odyssey's convertible post (pictured)is compatible with all Pivotal style seatsand includes hardware for mountingrailed seats. The removable post gutscan also be used to install railed seatson integrated Pivotal frames.0845 8725446

52 BIKEBIZ JULY BIKEBIZ.COM

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Page 53: BikeBiz July 2011
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NeilPryde Alize SL seat postDirect via NeilPryde020 7193 6438

TO SIT WITH the Alize frame, NeilPryde hasintroduced an ‘Alize’ seatpost with an adjustable 78-degree angle, meaning the brand’s customers cannow achieve a full triathlon or time trial specific bikefrom one brand.

Utilising Ritchey’s saddle clamp on monoraildesign, the post itself measures 350mm for a longerpost and 320mm for a short. The Alize tips thescales at 0.24kg for the longer version.

20 per cent discounts are offered on pre-ordersplaced before early July. Representative of the brand,Scott Purchas, is contactable on 020 7193 6438.

Charge X Bill Amberg saddlesCycling Sports Group UK01202 732288

CONTINUING ITS quest to be the most stylish brandaround, Charge Bikes has linked with luxury leathertailor Bill Amberg for a limited run of stylish saddles.

Charge Bikes owner Nick Larsen told BikeBiz at therecent 2012 bike launch: “We noticed Amberg haddone some stylish saddles for Half Pipe Bikes. Havingseen the stunning results we got onto Bill aboutdoing some leather Charge saddles. They’ll cost £40when they land mid-July. The saddle is designed as across-breed between our Spoon and Bucket saddles.There’s some of Bill’s signature touches on there,such as the lattice style backing.”

How I Won the Yellow Jersey Random House0207 840 8400

NED BOULTING recounts his experiences coveringthe world's premier two-wheeled race. Offering aninsider's view of reporting on the Tour, including whatit's like to confront Cavendish, Wiggins, Armstrong etal seconds after they cross the finish line.

Boulting was awarded the Royal TelevisionSociety's Sports Reporter of the Year award in 2006for his role in covering cycling. Since then he haspresented two Tour of Britain races, as well as havingreported from the Tour de France eight times. Thebook retails for £12.99 and is available to tradeaccounts via The Random House Group.

Answer racing productPure Bicycle Company01582882919

ANSWER’S BMX racing goods are now availableexclusively via upstart distributor Pure BicycleCompany. (More on that on page 6)

The Dagger fork is key to the new line, being “oneof the main forks” for serious racers, as well as one ofthe only race forks to have full carbon legs and analuminium steerer.

Sold in pairs, Answer’s wheels are also availablefrom Pure. Once again, these are top-end bits of kit,hosting a titanium driver and Japanese performancebearings. A pair of Answer’s wheels weigh in at amere 2.4 pounds.

Polaris footwearPolaris01246 240218

AFTER NEARLY a year of designing and planning,Polaris’ new range of shoes has arrived. The line-upincludes six models, five of which are available now.

The Bojo shoe is the brand’s take on an urbanshoe. Designed to be subtle yet functional, it can beworn all day, both on or off the bike. Sportive ridersand road racers are catered for with Flash andIgnition. The Equilibrium shoe is aimed at the trimarket, featuring large mesh vents and a simplesingle strap closure. The Splinter trail shoe is aimed atMTBers and incorporates a tough trail-ready Vibramsole. Vibram will also feature on the Shredder boot.

Kinetica EnergyDirect02031 708591

SPORTS NUTRITION brand Kinetica has added bothTri Carb Sticks and energy gels to its line-up.Designed to replenish essential carbohydrates andaid muscle recovery, sports nutritionist Matt Lovell,alongside Kinetica scientists, has created solutionstailored to the endurance athlete.

Kinetica Tri Carb Sticks come in powder form andcontain natural sea salts for hydration, as well as Bvitamins, Fenugreek fibre and bitter melon extract tohelp regulate blood sugar levels. For on-the-moveboosts, the energy gels replenish and, again, keephydration levels up thanks to clever ingredients.

Tales from the Tour, stylish luxury leather saddles andfresh new nutrition designed to put a kick in cyclists’performance make our round-upNew gear

54 BIKEBIZ JULY BIKEBIZ.COM

PRODUCTS | NEW RELEASES

Page 55: BikeBiz July 2011

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Page 56: BikeBiz July 2011

56 BIKEBIZ JULY BIKEBIZ.COM

Page 57: BikeBiz July 2011

Baggagehandling

ChickenCyclekitSWITZERLAND’S Pletscheroffers a particularly citybike-oriented range ofluggage and racks. The‘quickfit’ rack system allowsthe speedy fitment andremoval of bags, basketsand seats. Beautifullyengineered in anodisedalloy, the racks andaccessories offer adistinctive alternative forurban customers. Contactthe sales office 01525381347, orwww.chickenb2b.co.uk formore details on the range.

RaleighAVENIR’S lined rear panniers comeas a pair as standard, with a hostof features, including a waterproofinner lining designed to keepbelongings dry and safe.

Constructed with highly durablenylon fabric, the panniers use theRixen Kaul Klickfix fitting system(try saying that fast) which has agreat reputation in the world ofluggage. Reflective piping, internalorganiser and a shoulder strap allcome as standard and the integratedweather ski keeps the base of thebag off the ground when not in use,reducing wear and tear. Avenir’s widerange is available through Raleigh. Raleigh 0800 096 9060

ZyroABUS’ 20 litre office bag comeswith a LED light and a pre-definedshape (using foam stabiliser) tobring an end to squashedsandwiches. With reflective pipingand durable, waterproof fabrics, thisideal-for-commuter bag has apadded lock or laptop compartmentand retails at £109.99.

Altura has a wealth of load carryingsolutions. Built-for-the-UK Arran andDryline are bestsellers, says Zyro, theformer traditional sewn panniers andthe latter waterproof lined. The newFuse and Arc welded panniers have beenhugely popular too, bringing tough andlightweight waterproof weldedconstruction. Night Vision’s waterproofpanniers, rackpack and post pack are hi-vis for commuters, while the Metro andUrban briefcases provide a less cyclist

look.Speed

seatpacks cater for riders carrying thebare minimum in a range of sizes andcolours. All Altura luggage uses highstandard Rixen Kaul hardware for long life.

Zefal and Dahon luggage is alsofound under the Zyro banner.Zyro: 01845 521 700

Whether it’s transporting a tool kit, laptop,groceries or even a bike, there’s a cycle luggageoption available. Jonathon Harker packs hisown bags and profiles the market’s latest gear...

SECTOR GUIDE | LUGGAGE

BIKEBIZ.COM BIKEBIZ JULY 57

SKS COMING IN Three sizes, the RaceBagmounts tool-free and features a bayonetcatch, reflective piping, loop for the rearlight, neoprene compartment for multitool inside and is constructed withwater-resistant material.

Like the RaceBag, the TourBag is alsomounted tool-free. Available in twosizes, the TourBag has a quick-release

powerstrap fastening system and alsofeatures reflective piping, a loop for therear light, space for multitool and iswater-resistant constructed. TourBagretails at £23.99 for the 1.4 lt (large)and £25.99 for the 1.4+0.6 lt (XL). TheRaceBag range starts at £16.99 for theXS (0.5 ltr) up to the M at £19.99 (0.8 +0.2 ltr).

SKS products are available via ChickenCyclekit, Madison and Raleigh, whosedetails are all listed on this page.

MadisonPACIFIC Outdoor’s Super Pannier is asuper-sized rear touring pannier with ahandy floating lid for oversizedloads. Stored under the floatinglid is a innovative deployablemesh pocket so riders can drywet garments while they ride.The 3D zippered pocket is builtwith drains as is the rear blisterpocket that holds fuel bottlesor other items not wanted inwith the rest of the cyclists’ gear.

With an angled cut for healclearance, the Super Panniersports the same easy on/off Rixonand Kaul rack attachment hardware asPacific’s other panniers. Sold as a setthat includes a left and a right, theSuper Pannier holds 66 litres. Madison: 0870 034 7226

>>>Celebrating its 10th year, the UK’s leadingCycle Show heads to NEC, Birminghamon 29 Sep - 2 October 2011.

Register for your FREE trade pass atwww.cycleshow.co.uk/register for more information’

Page 58: BikeBiz July 2011

GreyvilleRIXEN KAUL is one of the go-to companies in the luggagebusiness, with many of theentries on this page using itstech. The firm’s own luggageline includes the Delux MeshBasket, a deep, fine-meshbasket with an integratedmount designed for fitting afront light. It also sports ahandle and rear adapter plate for easyuse with the KlickFit KF850 handlebar.

Weighing a mere 1,000g, the baskethas a maximum 7kg load, and a 22-litre

storage capacity. The Mesh Basketretails at £19.95. Greyville: 01543 251328([email protected])

C3 Products BIKND HELIUM is a piece of luggagedesigned to transport bikes in.Innovatively, and probably uniquely, ituses helium filled air bladders that siteither side of the bike for maximumprotection. Makingtransit and storageeasier, the bladdersdeflate easily so thebag can be folded upwhen not in use. Thebag can carry two wheelsets, perfect for competingcyclists, enabling them to take a race

set and training/spare set of wheels. Ifyou’re not convinced it’s worth notingBiknd is technical sponsor to the

Garmin/Cervelo and Radioshackpro tour teams. The bag retails for £425. www.c3products.com

PolarisPOLARIS’S new rangeof fully waterproofluggage – branded‘Aqua Nought’ – willbe available at retailfrom August. The line-up features roll topwaterproof closures,lazer-cut highfrequency weldedseams and reflectivedetailing. AquaNought products aremanufactured from

a durable nylon andaqua3 coated fabricsand the range coversthree styles of bags;a 20-litre courierbag, a 30-litre backpack with anadjustable backsupport and a 40-litre travel holdallwith an internaldry bag. All bagsare available influro yellow, blackand matt grey.

www.polaris-bikewear.co.uk

Wildoo FOR YEARS Pletscher has built itscarriers using a unique die-castaluminium top desk. The constructionmethod is far stronger than thecompetition, says Pletscher, and formsthe basis for the Easy-Fix luggageintegration system.

Pletscher Easy-Fix carriers are asstandard equipment for many brands,including Pashley, and are also availableas an aftermarket upgrade. With anEasy-Fix carrier on a bike there are awide range of accessories that canquickly be clicked on or off are available

to buy including baskets, rack bags,boxes and child seats. Pletscher isdistributed by Chicken and Wildoowww.wildoo.co.uk

SECTOR GUIDE | LUGGAGE

>>>

i-rideTHEYAMASKApannier rangeis a favouritewith tourers andrenowned fordurability. The450Kf rear pannierset has reflectorsand practicalcompartments. Plastic clips areincluded for storage of extra luggage ontop and pedaling is not affected by thepanniers due to the sloped shape of the

bags. Comingcomplete with a LEDlight unit and raincovers, the bag offersgood value for£134.99.

Cordo's ruggedReply Pannier set isdesigned to be simple

and effective. Spacious,very sturdy and made of

canvas with a trendy look,the strong waterproof

product has adjustable quickrelease fasteners and a 28lt capacity, allfor £59.99 inc VAT. www.i-ride.co.uk

UpgradeLEZYNE’S TRUNK Caddyis a clever product withzip-out side panniers forwhen the rider needsthat extra carryingcapacity. The paddedinterior comes withorganisational dividers –including for cycle tools– while the waterresistant bottom keeps thecontents dry.

The Lezyne Rack Caddy(£42.99) is a single pannier,again with handy organisation, this timewith bottom and top compartments

separate from the mainpocket.

Also up from thebrand is the MessengerCaddy (84.99). Featuringdurable constructionfrom polyester and PVCfabrics, the caddyincludes a high vis mainlogo, straps and lightingloop. A padded andbreathable shoulderstrap, custom alloy

buckle with integratedbottle opener and a

separated documentsleeve within are some of

the other features includes. 01403 711 611

Moore LargeFEW WILL have passed through MooreLarge’s last house show without notingthe new Expider luggage gear.

Integrated LEDs are a big part ofExpider’s unique selling points, weavingthe lights into backpacks, saddlebagsand other luggage.

Look out for the brand’s two-litrebladder backpack with integrated light.Moore Large predicts this will be a topseller thanks to its value for moneycredentials.

Moore Large also distributes theKnog and in-house designed Outeredge

catalogues, both of which have adiverse range of luggage goods.01332 274200

RaphaRAPHA has a new luggage collectionpromising to blend luxury withfunctionality. The revamped line-upincludes a reworked Race Bag, updatedRapha Backpack, new Should Bags, aTote and Wash Bag.

All are constructed from hardwearingand water resistant black Cordura, and asyou’d expect with the brand, have astrong visual identity with a contrastwhite, leather stripe on the outside. www.rapha.cc

HeslingProducts Hesling offers a wide range of product tothe trade, including luggage as well ascasual clothing and serious rainwear forwet weather. The luggage range catersfor a wide range of ages and uses,whether it’s for riding to school,commuting, leisure riding or serioustouring. Hesling is distributed via CoyoteSports 0161 7278508 and The CycleDivision 01484 456137.

58 BIKEBIZ JULY BIKEBIZ.COM

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ChickenCyclekitBoth the Columbus and Deda forkranges are distributed by ChickenCyclekit. Columbus is Italian-designed,offering a complete range of carbonforks, with a selection of more nicherequirements with one-inch models andCX models available.

Deda carbon forks are a recentaddition to the Chicken, proving popularalready. A full range also includes theoption for RAW unpainted models.

Chicken’s B2B site(www.chickenb2b.co.uk) already has the

full range of Campagnolo 2012components available for pre-order.Some stock will arrive before theCampagnolo August holidays, includinga new range of wheels, groupsets andTriathlon/TT product. Included in thevastly expanded Tri range are 10x and11x bar end shifters in carbon and alloy.To compliment these, a linear pull andcentre pull brake caliper will be offeredfor the first time and also an aero brakelever model.

Please contact the sales office on01525 381347 to ensure you receivestock from the first 2012 deliveries toChicken Cyclekit. 01525 381347

GreyvilleThe Axon is SR Suntours top of therange line of XC forks. Starting from£275.95 retail price there is a choice ofdifferent models to suit differing riderneeds. New models include the AxonWerx series and a new top-of-the-range Axon RC ELD, which uses acarbon and magnesium hybrid lowerleg resulting in a much lighter fork. Thisair-sprung fork also has a remoteelectronic lockout meaning the fork canbe made rigid or active in just 0.65seconds. Weighing in at an impressive1,500g the Axon RC ELD also usesSuntour’s own 15mm Q LOC axle forincreased stiffness. The Axon range offorks is available with standard 9mmdropouts, or with a 15mm axle and achoice of 1 1/8” or a tapered steerertube.

Team BH Suntour has been using theAxon fork on the front of its bikes sincethe start of the season, with JulieBresset taking the top spot at the lasttwo world cup races at Dalby Forestand Offenburg. Retail prices start from£275.95. Greyville can be contacted on01543 251328 [email protected].

In a mind-bending collection of components, welist a selection of forks, gears, chains and brakescurrently available to bike retailers, all in the onefeature. Jonathon Harker shifts up a gear...

SECTOR GUIDE | FORKS, GEARS, CHAINS AND BRAKES

60 BIKEBIZ JULY BIKEBIZ.COM

Celebrating its 10th year, the UK’s leadingCycle Show heads to NEC, Birminghamon 29 Sep - 2 October 2011.

Register for your FREE trade pass atwww.cycleshow.co.uk/register for more information’

FoxAvailable in the UK from July, the 2012Fox Racing Shox line-up offers acompelling comprehensive range ofmountain bike suspension. The brandhas set its sights high with theintroduction of the Float TI. With a one-piece titanium crown/steerer 90 gramshas been shaved off the weight, whilethe same stiffness as Fox’s existing twopiece aluminium crown and steerer hasbeen maintained.

The 2012 range also sees theintroduction of Kashima Coat to its rearshocks. Exclusive to Fox Racing Shox,Kashima’s distinctive gold colour isbacked by its performance attributes ofexceptionally smooth feel and extremedurability.

Fox Racing Shox is distributed byMojo Suspension. Fox: 01633 615815

Pedal to the metal

Page 61: BikeBiz July 2011

BIKEBIZ.COM BIKEBIZ JULY 61

RaleighQuad Technology’s new brake systemsaim to offer better spec for the money.What that means is that the new ‘Nano’system is available in black/red orwhite/gold colour options, offering highperformance hydraulic braking for£59.99 per unit. The price includes a fullybled calliper, lever, hose, rotor, bolts andadaptor.

The next step up of £20 per brake(taking it to £79.99) is the all-new NanoLite. This is a lightweight version of theNano with super light XC rotor, tool-free

reach and bite pointadjustment andplenty more.

The NanoLite has beentested inFrance andScotland ondownhill rigs withstandard rotors to ensure theycan put up with pretty much anythingyour customer can throw at it.

Quad Technology products areexclusively distributed by Raleigh in theUK. Raleigh: 0800 096 9060

IsonDistributionThe best-selling Society Forks range isstill going strong with great performingdirt jump forks at reasonable prices, Isontells BikeBiz.

The distributor also carries forks forroad, MTB and BMX from brands suchas Surly, Salsa, Genetic, KHE, Gusset, All-City and White Brothers.

Gear-wise Ison has the Rohloff

internal geared hub, as well as havingSturmey Archer, Driven and Sunracewithin its catalogue.

The Sturmey Archer Kickback hub is agreat two-speed hub for commuters asit is internally geared so runs on asinglespeed set-up and gear change isby a quarter pedal backwards. Retailprice for the Kickback is £64.99.

For brakes Ison’s portfolio includesGusset, Genetic and Dia Compe for justabout every type of cycle, while chainsare available from Gusset, KHE and 4Jeri.Ison: 01353 662 662

ZyroAshima’s PCB is the world’s firstpistonless hydraulic brake. Bysimplifying the calliper and removingthe pistons the PCB is light, efficient,economic, low profile and almostmaintenance free, says Zyro.

The 2011 version has performanceupgrades and is available at £129.99(front and rear sold separately). Over toreplacement pads, Ashima’s RPMX/PRO-G (for Shimano) retails at £12.99 anduses a plastic fitting on a traditionalrubber pad for a superior fit betweenpad and holder. RPMX pads are light,stiff, safe and easy to fit too. The all-new Pro-G Advanced rubber compoundperforms up to 70 per cent better underheavy braking than standard rubbercompounds, says Ashima, The plasticmoulded Pro-Carbon version (£14.99,sold in pairs) offers top brakingperformance on carbon rims, wet or dry.

Izumi chains, made in Japan, arepitched at fixie and urban bikes. TheJapanese NJS approved Super-Tough isthe most formidable chain in the line-up, with a stunning gold and blackfinish. Izumi’s standard 1/2x1/8 chainsare available in black, silver and gold atan affordable price.Zyro: 01845 521700

MadisonShimano has launched the new DeoreXT. Lauded as the world’s firstMTB groupset back when thefirst Deore launched 30years ago, this nextversion has beencompletely revamped.

The Dyna-Sys drive-train comes in twovarieties: double andtriple, offering riders achoice for the option thatfits his or her style best.The more versatile tripleversion aims to providemaximum shift smoothness anddurability. The Show rear derailleur hasbeen enhanced and combined with thenewest shifter design to optimise theoverall system stability. It’s moremechanic friendly too, with angledadjustment screws and clamp bolt.

Deore also offers advanced light actionshifting via the Rapidfire Plus shifter,plus a host of other features.

Also up from Shimano is thenew Tiagra. Completely

re-engineered andremastered, the

enhancedTiagra has a

more refinedergonomic design

than its predecessor.Improved levers for easier shifting and arear derailleur that can accommodate a30T cog with a short cage for quicker,crisp shifting are among the newfeatures.Madison: 0870 034 7226

SECTOR GUIDE | FORKS, GEARS, CHAINS AND BRAKES

>>>

Kool-StopKool-Stop has expanded its popularseries of vintage brake pads. In additionto the Campagnolo Nuovo Record andthe Mafac replacement pads they nowhave the Rod Insert Rounded Philipsavailable. These come two pair in a bag(salmon or black).

The available colours in the wide rangeof Kool-Stop pads are ever-increasingtoo. Many are now available in pink,lime green, purple and white. All Kool-Stop compounds are thoroughly testedand meet or exceed CPSC, BA1 and ENbraking standards. Kool-Stop brakes areavailable via Spa Cycles, Amba, ScoopBMX and i-Ride.

Page 62: BikeBiz July 2011

SECTOR GUIDE | FORKS, GEARS, CHAINS AND BRAKES

62 BIKEBIZ JULY BIKEBIZ.COM

>>>

UpgradeYBN’s strong value chain range includesthe Hollow Pin ten-speed chain for£31.99. With 260 gram super-lightweightforged hollow pins it offers precise andquick shifting, and is compatible with allten-speed systems (Shimano). YBN’s HalfLink singlespeed and BMX chain (£19.99)weighs 360 grams and is available in1/8-inch or Narrow 3/32-inch. Thisextreme heavy-duty single speed chaincomes with a joining pin included.

YBN also offers a £169.99 Ultralightten-speed titanium chain aimed at the

more weight concious riders among us. Microshift is pitched as a credible

alternative to the main transmissioncompanies. Offering high quality andgreat value across the range of MTB androad components, Microshift’s catalogueincludes the new XONA ten-speed road-group, suitable for both double or triplechain sets. Fully compatible withShimano drivetrains, cyclists can mixand match components, whetherbuilding up a CX bike, race bike or longdistance tourer.

The MicroShift range also includesthe Xona shifters (£199.99) and Xonarear mech (£59.99).

Tektro is a significant player in the OEand aftermarket brake market, with ahuge range of product, including thepopular R539 caliper brake (£49.99/pr).The long reach brake set will notinterfere with frames fitted withmudguards and has a new quickrelease mechanism for larger tyresand adjustable angle cartridgepads. Tektro racingproducts line-up alsoincludes the Dashdisk brake£134.99/wheel(alloy).

Upgradeis the exclusive

supplier of theKinesis range of forks,

including the KinesisDC07 fork at £129.99.

Decade forks are alsodistributed by Upgrade, such as

the UK-designed Truth steel 700cfork costing £74.99. X-Fusion’s MTB suspension forks

promise sensibly priced high qualityproduct. For more details call 01403711 611.

HotlinesThe Manitou Minute Pro fork retails at£379.99 and provides riders with thefeel of the trail, but without the dentalwork-jarring vibration. While there isoften a weight penalty in order to attainsolid steering, the Minute aims tochange all that with ultra stiff 32 mmstanchions, MARS Air springs and anavailable Hex Lock thru-axle. TheAbsolute Damper offers externallyadjustable low-speed damping andinternally tuneable high-speed damping.The Deep Bore Hollow Crown are lightweight, offering no loss in strength.

Hotlines also brings the Hayes Primehydraulic disc brake (£149.99) to thetrade.

Using what it describes as industry-first technologies, it offers more power,new components and a better ride.Prime’s tool-free reach and contact

adjustment, improved braking torqueand feel are among the attributes of thePrime. In fact, the Prime is packed withplenty more new technology, contactHotlines for more details on those. Hotlines: 0131 319 1444

Fisher OutdoorLeisureFollowing the recent maiden win for a29er in WC competition by a RockShox-equipped bike, Fisher now has the rangeof 29er specific RockShox forks availableto order on general release. This modelis lighter than the ’09 26-inchequivalent and availablefrom £649.99

The SRAM roadgroupsets need nointroduction as pro levelproven components, but inthe 2011 Giro d’Italia, AlbertoContador actually rode the entrylevel SRAM Apex gearing to helphim compete in the steep, highmountains. All group sets are nowavailable to your customersdirectly from Fisher, from SRAM

Apex to the award winning SRAM Red.New colours have been announced

making colour coding a bike easier thanever, including the SRAM Red Black(available July) and Apex White(Available August). MTB gearing is takencare of too with a developing 2x10offering. SRAM X0 is available fromSeptember in a new mirror finish X0Silver derivative and the X9 and X7brakes have been redesigned for 2012

to offer even greater stoppingpower from a lightweight brakeset.

SRAM also offers a well-knownrange of chains for all types of

bike, as well as a high qualitybulk chain for workshop use.SRAM’s chains promise easy

maintenance and fluid shifting.Contact your territory manager forfurther details.www.fisherb2b.co.uk01727 798345

i-rideToken’s Accura brake

calipers with titaniumhardware (TK-BR730)

weighs a mere 211 gramsa pair with pads included. Featuring CNC machined

aluminium arms,cartridge type brake pads

and available in white,black or red anodized, the

Accura comes for theretail price of £255.31,

including VAT. Visit www.i-

ride.co.uk for moreof Token’sextensive

componentscatalogue.

01444 243000

Moore Large THE MICROSHIFT brand is alsoavailable from Moore Large, givingbike retailers a viable, cheaperalternative to speccing Shimanoand SRAM parts forreplacement, or upgrade jobs inthe workshop.

New to Microshift are theBona and Centos ten-speedroad groups:

The Bona group features hi-polish and anodised/Ti coated roadlevers complete with Teflon cabling,front braze on derailleur weighing 98grams and rear derailleur weighing 199grams.

The Centos group features classicpolished road levers complete withTeflon cables, front braze on derailleurweighing 98 grams and rear derailleurweighing 201 grams.

With both groupsets offering lowweights and performance on par withthe main brands, retailers have a realgroupset alternative in Microshift.01332 274200

Page 63: BikeBiz July 2011
Page 64: BikeBiz July 2011

BikeBiz is keen to publish your opinions, whether they’re fromletters, emails or via BikeBiz.com...

Mail to:Saxon House, 6A St. Andrews Street, Hertford, Hertfordshire SG14 1JA

Email:[email protected]

Star LetterWhether it’s a hand-written, sent-through-the-post letter, email or acomment made on the BikeBiz forum, thebest letter of the month wins a prize fromOxford Products.

This month the lucky winner will receivethe F15 Fluo helmet.

LETTERS | YOUR SAY

64 BIKEBIZ JULY BIKEBIZ.COM

STA

R L

ETTE

R

How do you setup a bike shop?

SPONSORED BY

I AM WORKING on a business plan to start abike shop in Gloucestershire. I've got a site inmind and now it's very much down tocrunching the figures. I'm lacking a few crucialbits of information though and this is where Iwas hoping BikeBiz’s readership might be ableto assist with its wisdom.

The first one is going to sound ridiculous. Ihave no feeling at all for the rate of sales onbikes. I understand that's a bit like asking howlong is a piece if string, but I just needsomething to go on. I'm looking at an 800 sqfoot site next door to a huge supermarket, anNHS trust employing 800 on the doorstepand several thousand new build homes up theroad. I'm thinking of stocking Trek from £300to £2,000 in road, MTB, commuter and kids.Are we talking one a week, one a day, ten onthe weekend and nothing else until next? Ijust don't have anything to base a cleverestimate on.

Next up, suppliers and margins. I've readthat there's some benefit in putting most ofyour eggs in one basket to show commitmentand get a decent deal in the early days, hencethe idea of a wide range of Trek and its bikes.I'm basing my figures on a 35 per centmargin, does that sound reasonable?

Finally, sale or return, is that an option anysuppliers even consider? I'm in wholesale atthe moment, albeit in a different sector, and Iknow we pretty much won't touch itanymore. That being the case, what's theknack for avoiding a lot of unsold stock, butstill ensuring enough options in store? Dosuppliers let shops order in for a test ride andsend back if it's no-go? Seems unlikely.

Any help your readership could offer wouldbe much appreciated.

Luke Pickering

“How many bikes do you selland when? Is it one a day, tenon the weekend and nothing

else until the next?”

IF YOU can point Pickering in the right direction,offer some wisdom or advice, please email

[email protected]. The content will then be passed on him.

Are you willing to help a fledgling cycle retailer getoff the starting blocks with a few words of sageadvice...?

Page 65: BikeBiz July 2011

To order copies of BikeBiz Bible or ensure inclusion in the 2011 edition please [email protected]

2pure0844 811 2001www.2pure.co.uk DISTRIBUTOR

Abacus Online Ltd0151 334 8303www.abacusonline.netEPOS

Ascend RetailManagement System01908 280667www.ascendrms.com EPOS

Bohle UK Ltd01952 602680www.schwalbe.co.uk DISTRIBUTOR/IMPORTER

Cube Bikes Uk Ltdwww.cube.eu0031 180441350 DISTRIBUTOR

Custom SportsClothing Ltd07580 495881www.customsportsclothing.com MANUFACTURER/DISTRIBUTOR

Cybertill Ltd0800 0304432www.cybertill.co.uk EPOS

Cycle Division Ltd0845 0508500www.thecycledivision.com WHOLESALER/DISTRIBUTOR

The Cycle Show0207 2886733www.cycleshow.co.ukEVENT/EXHIBITION ORGANISER

Digital RetailSolutions Inc001 8003229471www.digitalretailer.comEPOS

Eurobike Ltd01332 774796www.eurobike.uk.comDISTRIBUTOR

Fat Spanner07966401165www.fatspannerworld.com DISTRIBUTOR/MANUFACTURER

Fisher OutdoorLeisure01727 798345www.fisheroutdoor.co.ukDISTRIBUTOR

Hotlines Europe Ltd0131 3191444www.hotlines-uk.comDISTRIBUTOR

Hykeham WholesaleLimited01522 801550www.hykehamwholesale.co.uk DISTRIBUTOR/WHOLESALER

Jungle Products Ltd01423 780088www.jungleproducts.co.uk www.santacruzbikes.co.ukDISTRIBUTOR

Lyon Equipment01539 625493www.lyon.co.ukDISTRIBUTOR

Monterey Industries Ltd0117 9509499www.masibikes.comwww.brevm.com DISTRIBUTOR/MANUFACTURER

Mojo suspensionHoodoo ltd01633 615815www.mojo.co.uk DISTRIBUTOR

Moore Large and Co Ltd01332 274252www.moorelarge.co.uk DISTRIBUTOR

Otagocyclesport07939 543016www.otagocyclesport.co.uk DISTRIBUTOR

Pacific Cycles Inc+886 34861231www.pacific-cycles.comMANUFACTURER/DISTRIBUTOR

Paligap Ltd01454 313116www.paligapltd.co.ukDISTRIBUTOR

Parklife (Havant) Ltd02392 475895IMPORTER/DISTRIBUTOR

Pashley Cycles01789 292263www.pashley.co.ukMANUFACTURER/DISTRIBUTOR

Peter DobbsDesign andPrint Services01482 224007MANUFACTURER/DESIGN & PRINTSERVICES

Qoroz01453 889204www.qoroz.co.uk MANUFACTURER

Raleigh UK Ltd01773 532600www.raleigh.co.uk www.cyclelife.comDISTRIBUTOR

Red Cloud MC01767 692831www.redcloudmc.comMARKETING, PR & EVENTS

Reece Cycles PLC0121 6220180www.reececycles.co.ukDISTRIBUTOR

Saddleback Ltd01454 285285www.saddleback.co.ukDISTRIBUTOR

Seventies0845 3103670www.seventies.co.ukDISTRIBUTOR

Silverfish UK Ltd01752 843882www.silverfish-uk.comDISTRIBUTOR

SKS+49 2333831246www.sks-germany.comMANUFACTURER

Sonic Cycles0207 2432848www.soniccycles.co.uk/b2b IMPORTER/DISTRIBUTOR

Sport Direct Ltd0845 2693060www.sport-direct.co.uk DISTRIBUTOR/MANUFACTURER

StormfrontTechnology Ltd0800 6121044www.stormfront.co.uk EPOS

Trek Bicycle Corporation01908 282626MANUFACTURER

USE Ltd01798 344477www.exposurelights.com www.use1.com MANUFACTURER/DISTRIBUTOR

Vigour Corporation0092 524269920www.vigourcorporation.comMANUFACTURER/EXPORTER

Walkers CycleComponents Ltd0116 2833885www.walkerscycles.co.ukWHOLESALER/DISTRIBUTOR

Zyro Ltd01845 521700www.zyro.co.uk DISTRIBUTOR

Page 66: BikeBiz July 2011

Editorial Planner | August 2011

To advertise call Carly Bailey on +44 (0) 1992 535647, or email her at [email protected]

For editorial contact Jonathon Harker on +44 (0) 1992 535646,or email him at [email protected]

SEPTEMBER 2011� Children: Bikes, P&A � Clothing and AccessoriesEditorial Deadline: Aug 5th Advertising Deadline: Aug 10th

OCTOBER 2011� Road Cycling: Bikes, Gear and Accessories � Cycle ShowGuide � Guide to the High Street BuyersEditorial Deadline: Sept 2nd Advertising Deadline: Sept 7th

NOVEMBER 2011� Stocking Fillers: Gifts under £20 � Trailers and Trailer Bikes� Cycle Show Review Editorial Deadline: Oct 7th Advertising Deadline: Oct 12th

DECEMBER 2011� P&A: Wheels, Tyres, Tubes, Pumps � Retail SurveyEditorial Deadline: Nov 4th Advertising Deadline: Nov 9th

JANUARY 2012� Workshop: Cleaning and Tools� Workshop: Training� Core Bike Editorial Deadline: TBC Advertising Deadline: TBC

FEBRUARY 2012� Commuting: Folding Bikes, Helmets, Reflectives� IceBike Guide� Fisher Outdoors ExpoEditorial Deadline: TBC Advertising Deadline: TBC

Editorial Deadline: July 8th

Advertising Deadline: July 13th

UPCOMING EVENTS

EDITORIAL PLANNER | EVENTS

66 BIKEBIZ JULY BIKEBIZ.COM

For more cycle trade dates: www.bikebiz.com/events

For additional copies please contact:[email protected]

THE BIBLEIS BACK!

RELENTLESS NASSTuesday July 8th to 10thShepton Mallet, Somersetwww.relentlessnass.com

BIKE EXPO 2011 Tuesday July 21st to 24thMunich, Germany www.bike-expo.com

ICEBIKE* WINTERJuly 19th to 21st and 25th to26thMilton Keyneswww.icebike.co.uk

DEALER CAMP 2011 Monday July 26thDeer Valley, Utahwww.dealercamp.com

AUSBIKE 2011 Thursday August 20th to 22ndExhibition Pavillion, Melbourne Showgroundswww.ausbike.com.au

EUROBIKE DEMO DAYTuesday August 30thArgenbuhl, Germanywww.eurobike-show.de

EUROBIKE 2011Wednesday August 31st toSeptember 3rdFriedrichshafen, Germanywww.eurobike-show.de

INTERBIKE 2011Monday September 12th toFriday September 16thLas Vegas, USAwww.interbike.com

BIKEBIZ AWARDS 2011Wednesday September 28thHilton Metropole, NEC,Birminghamwww.bikebiz.com

CYCLE SHOW 2011Thursday September 29th toSunday October 2ndNEC Birmingham, UKwww.cycleshow.co.uk

TAICHUNG BIKE WEEKNovember 29th to December 2nd Taichung, Taiwanwww.taichung-bike-week.com

July 2011

August 2011

ICEBIKE* WINTERJuly19th to 21st and 25th to 26th

Madison distribution centre, Milton Keyneswww.icebike.co.uk

SPOTLIGHT� Bicycle lighting and reflective clothing� Mountain biking: bikes, protective clothing andaccessories

October 2011

November 2011

September 2011

Page 67: BikeBiz July 2011

BIKEBIZ.COM BIKEBIZ JULY 67

The BikeBiz Marketplace offers a completemarketing package of print, online andeditorial visibility, allowing companies theopportunity to maintain contact withreaders each month without theassociated cost of full display advertising.

Its associated online version, has beendesigned to offer readers a directory of allproducts and services in the bike trade.

Your presence in this section ensures thatyour company’s details are easily found,keeping you one step ahead of yourcompetitors.

BIKES & ACCESSORIESMadison 01908 326 000 www.madisonb2b.co.ukPaligap 01454 313 116 www.paligapltd.co.ukSeventies 0845 310 3670 www.seventies.co.ukThe Cycle Division 0845 0508 500 www.thecycledivision.comKinesis Bikes 01403 711 611 www.kinesisbikes.co.ukUpgrade Bikes 01403 711 611 www.upgradebikes.co.uk

BIKE MAINTENANCEWeldtite 01652 660 000 www.weldtite.co.uk

COMPONENTSBob Elliot & Co Ltd 01772 459 887 www.bob-elliot.co.ukPace cycles Ltd 01723 867 919 www.pacecycles.comUSE Ltd 01798 344 477 www.use1.com

CUSTOM CLOTHINGWildoo Ltd 01908 374 555 www.wildoo.co.uk

EPOSCitrus Lime 0845 603 9254 www.citrus-retail.comEvopos 0845 644 9424 www.evopos.com

LIGHTINGExposure Lights 01798 344 477 www.exposurelights.com

NUTRITIONZipvit 01444 243 000 www.zipvitsport.com

RACKSPendle 01282 699 555 www.pendle-bike.co.ukMaxx Raxx 0845 230 3799 www.maxxraxx.co.uk

RESPRAYS & REPAIRSArgos 0117 972 4730 www.argoscycles.com

TRAINING SERVICESCycle Systems Academy 0207 6082577 www.cycle-systems-academy.co.uk

WATER BOTTLESBotlesport 0845 602 9267 www.bottlesport.comWildoo Ltd 01908 374 555 www.wildoo.co.uk

WEBSITE SERVICESSimpleEshop 0116 267 5145 www.simpleeshop.comSiWis Limited 01709 511766 www.siwis.co.uk

MARKETPLACE CONTACTS

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BIKEBIZ MARKETPLACETO ADVERTISE IN THESE PAGES PLEASE CALL CARLY BAILEY ON 01992 535647

Lezyne has established itself in a relativelyshort space of time – is that fair to say? 2012 will be Lezyne’s fifth year. There is ahuge amount of drive and passion in thebrand with a clear directive to be the best incategory. Lezyne’s success has been rapidbecause the products physically work so welland have a great sense of style. It has areputation as an affordable premium brand.

What are the latest releases? Key introductions in 2011 include the DirtDrive range, offering twice the volume offloor drive pumps for fast inflation of MTBtyres up to 70 psi. These pumps are perfectfor fitting tubeless tyres at fast, high volumesfor blowing the tyre to seal on the rim. Alsonew was the Travel Floor Drive, a compactunit with smaller base and shorter barrel, butno loss in performance.

The CFH pump range (CO2 Flex Hose) hasthe ‘Flex Hose’ as standard, a braided hosethat doubles as a piercing devise for the CO2canister supplied with the pump on a handybottle cage bracket. The rider can quicklyinflate a tyre with the CO2, but have thepeace of mind of a quality pump at the sametime. The pumps look stylish too. Lezyne’smulti-tool range was bolstered with theRap20, offering exceptional value for aquality 20 piece tool at £21.99.

Are any lines big sellers in particular? Big sellers in the mini pumps are the highpressure pumps ‘Pressure Drive’ and ‘RoadDrive’. The multi-tool range sell wells, but‘Rap13’ and ‘Stainless12’ do big numbers, forsure. For floor pumps it’s the ‘Steel FloorDrive’ that does best, a quality metal floorpump that comes at a price of plastic pumps.

In soft goods the‘Medium Caddy’ seat pack does very well asdoes the ‘Firebreak’ hydration backpack.

How’s business? Lezyne business is booming. More dealers arecoming on board each month. We offer greatmargins and low cost re-stockingprogrammes. There are POS support itemsavailable that really help set the brand out.Dealers that display the range of Lezyne in-store as a brand with all products grouped,are showing the strongest growth.

Each year there are more customers withhigh-end bikes looking for appropriatelydesigned and presented accessories. Lezynestands out from the crowd, attracting thoseafter quality and reliability.

What’s next for Lezyne? Can’t divulge too much yet, but I can saythat 2012 will see a new range of homeworkshop tools. Expect high quality withmetal and natural materials mixed in classicLezyne style. More surprising to you will bethe news that Lezyne will enter the lightsmarket with a range of LED lights. That’sreally all I’m at liberty to say right now.

T: 01403 711 611

W: www.upgradebikes.co.uk

COMPANY PROFILERORY HITCHINS Lezyne (distributed via Upgrade)

Page 68: BikeBiz July 2011

BIKES & ACCESSORIES BIKES & ACCESSORIES

BIKES & ACCESSORIES BIKES & ACCESSORIES

68 BIKEBIZ JULY BIKEBIZ.COM

BIKEBIZ | MARKETPLACE

Page 69: BikeBiz July 2011

BIKE MAINTENANCE

BIKEBIZ | MARKETPLACE

COMPONENTS

BIKES & ACCESSORIES

BIKEBIZ.COM BIKEBIZ JULY 69

BIKES & ACCESSORIES

Page 70: BikeBiz July 2011

COMPONENTS COMPONENTS

CUSTOM CLOTHING EPOS

70 BIKEBIZ JULY BIKEBIZ.COM

BIKEBIZ | MARKETPLACE

Page 71: BikeBiz July 2011

BIKEBIZ | MARKETPLACE

NUTRITION RACKS

LIGHTING

BIKEBIZ.COM BIKEBIZ JULY 71

EPOS

Page 72: BikeBiz July 2011

TRAINING SERVICES

RACKS RESPRAYS & REPAIRS

WATER BOTTLES

72 BIKEBIZ JULY BIKEBIZ.COM

BIKEBIZ | MARKETPLACE

Page 73: BikeBiz July 2011

WEBSITE SERVICES

WEBSITE SERVICES

WATER BOTTLES

BIKEBIZ | MARKETPLACE

BIKEBIZ.COM BIKEBIZ JULY 73

To get your companyfeatured here contact:

Carly Bailey on01992 535647

or [email protected]

Page 74: BikeBiz July 2011

OFF TRACK | NUMBER CRUNCHING

Mark Noble, Owner, Deluxe BMX

What bikes do you own?I do have some old school classics, a couple of properlandmark bikes, and some right old muck – but I justgenerally love bicycles, the simpler the better. My currentbike of choice is my 2011 Deluxe Tech2 – it's my near-perfect set-up and there's something extremely satisfyingabout riding a bike that you've designed.

Tell us a bit about your business background:I've been in the BMX business for over 23 years, throughlaunching, editing, and publishing BMX and other magazines.

Back in those days we were proud of what were market-leading magazines. BMX Print media has changed now, andI'm really impressed with modern, newcomer magazines suchas The Albion and Case.

Now, I have an established BMX brand in Deluxe, taking itback to a fresh ethos with tons of potential, great productsand a great team. Running a bike company is an interestinglearning curve for sure, but it's a good one. I'm also starting aUK distribution company dealing with bike shops direct.

You're quite involved with sponsorship of riders andevents - why is this important to your biz?Well, we obviously need team riders to help design and proveour products and get involved with the creative side ofDeluxe; photos, videos, design and marketing. Plus, I genuinelyenjoy helping the guys out with what they need. Events wise,I also have no hesitation helping out a jam with someproduct prizes – you've got to give back to the scene.

Product wise, what can Deluxe offer the bike dealer?Frames, bars, stems, hub-sets, pedals, seats, pedals, sprockets,and more, all built for bicycle motocross. From a businessstandpoint, the prices are right and a bike shop has a largemargin to play around with, and I believe we can back it upwith good service. I'm proud of what we make, it's taken awhile to get it where we want it, but it's coming good now.

What's coming from Deluxe in 2012?This year we are expanding into an all-new complete bikeline and it's a tight, limited edition line, two models strongand built right.

Project wise at Deluxe, now we're in our third year we'reon course to make a profit with the business, so we'll be ableto stand by our original commitment to the Stephen MurrayFund and contribute the ten per cent of Deluxe profits backto Stephen and the guys.

What are the best contact details for prospective retailpartners?Probably the best bet is to email [email protected], orphone 05602 796039.

IN THE SADDLE

74 BIKEBIZ JULY BIKEBIZ.COM

100Bike retailers Halfords and

Wiggle both recordedrises in the Experian HotOnline Shop 100. SadlyEvans fell, but only by a

couple of places.

British Cycling believe that its Breeze cyclecampaign could see scores of women trycycling for the first time. Meanwhile Trek’s newwarehouse vastly increases the manufacturer’scapacity to store bikes.

Let’s getstatistical

234There were 234 road

accidents involving

cyclists in London in

2010, says TfL.

Page 75: BikeBiz July 2011

BIKEBIZ.COM BIKEBIZ JULY 75

OFF TRACK | NUMBER CRUNCHING

80,000 British Cycling's conservativeestimate of the number of

women it will get onto bikesthrough it's new Breeze cycle

ride initiative. OUR BIGGEST 15 STORIES ONLINE IN MAY

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12. Mercedes Benz announces bike linehttp://www.bikebiz.com/news/read/mercedes-benz-announces-bike-line

13. Bike launch report: Red or Dead teams up withRaleighhttp://www.bikebiz.com/news/read/bike-launch-report-red-or-dead-teams-up-with-raleigh

14. Keronite: important technology for the bikebusiness?http://www.bikebiz.com/news/read/keronite-important-technology-for-the-bike-business

15. Tron-like LED wheel spinners get cyclists seen http://www.bikebiz.com/index.php/news/read/tron-like-led-wheel-spinners-get-cyclists-seen

35,000 Trek UK's new warehouse can fit over

35,000 bikes. You can bet the oneyou want will be at the bottom.

29What will be the key trend atEurobike this year? The 29er,

according to the show organiser.

Page 76: BikeBiz July 2011

TONY BOOTH of All Terrain Cycles, Saltaire,Bradford, won a Team Experience trip to Giro2011 thanks to a prize from Fisher Outdoor andSantini last month.

Booth jetted off to the Giro d’Italia to samplelife as part of a pro team after winning theinternational Santini competition. Booth alsotook a VIP trip to the Santini factory in Bergamobefore joining one of the Santini sponsoredteams, after which he’ll join the team riders andmanagers for dinner. He’ll also get to follow theriders in the team car during the stage.

Get the full story on BikeBiz.com

Send your pictures [email protected]

OFF THE RECORD

• all terrain man samples giro life

TOY MANUFACTURER Hornby has had a helpinghand from Olympic cycling hopeful Lizzie Armisteadin promoting its London 2012 products in toysuperstore Hamleys.

Lizzie drew shopper's attention to the display,pedalling her dynamo equip bike in order to powerthe Hornby Olympic Train set.

Members of the public were able to join in thefun too, by having a whirl on Lizzie's bike, giving theminiature train set a further boost.

Hornby has created a special London 2012 rangeto commemorate the Olympic and ParalympicGames - all available to purchase in the famousLondon store and also to be shortly available viahornby.com’s online shop.

To help celebrate, the Royal Mint also offered acoin swap on the fourth floor for one day only,where customers were able to swap a standard 50pfor a shiny new commemorative London 2012cycling 50p.

Hornby borrows Olympianfor Hamleys launch

76 BIKEBIZ JULY BIKEBIZ.COM

OFFTrack

Bishopbriggs is the firsttown in Scotland where allseven primary schools haveachieved Cycling Scotland’sCycle Friendly Award. Cyclingto primary schools in thearea has doubled in just oneyear, with the support of anumber of organisations –including East Dunbarton’sCycle Co-operative. TheAward is dedicated toencouraging cycling as awhole school culture,

benefiting kids’ health andenvironment.

While it’s not strictlynecessary, several of StMatthews’ primary school’steachers insist ondemonstrating their ongoingcommitment to cycling byholding lessons underneathalongside local BMX andmountain bike stuntmen.

Find out more atwww.edscyclecoop.org.uk andwww.cyclingscotland.org

Scottishschools arecycle friendly

Booth took a VIP trip roundSantini’s factory in BergamoBike dealer

scores Girovictory

Page 77: BikeBiz July 2011

YORKSHIRE’S FAMOUSLYcobbled Gold Hill has seen acyclist or two over the years,most famously a young deliveryboy for Hovis’ famous ‘70sadvert and numerous pasticheand homages – includingVictoria Pendleton’s for thebread brand.

Last month saw a group of120 cyclists took part in thefirst annual ‘Gold Hill Honk’.The winner of the 200-metreascent sprint won themselvesa year’s supply of bread, plusa number of other prizes,courtesy of Hovis and eventorganiser ShaftesburyCycleRevival.

Find out more atwww.shaftesburycyclerevival.co.uk

OFF THE RECORD

• cyclist brings home the bread in gold hill honk • ncn cycles to schools

ENGAGING CHILDREN with cyclingis the name of the game, and whynot fill in the blanks about theevolution of the bike in the process?That’s the philosophy of theNational Cycle Collection, which hasbeen visiting schools – includingCrossgates Primary School,Llandrindod Wells (pictured) – togrow interest in bikes.

Job share curator of the Museum

John Gill visiting the pupils of theschool (pictured with teach VerityPritchard) and is keen to involvedmore schools in visits to or from themuseum for children to learn aboutthe evolution of the bicycle.

www.cyclemuseum.org.uk or tel01597 825531, Monday to Fridaybetween 10am and 4pm. For moreabout the National Cycle Museumturn to May’s BikeBiz.

A day at themuseum

BIKEBIZ.COM BIKEBIZ JULY 77

Sponsored by the brands ofMoore Large 01332 274252

“After riding happily through Londononce a day with them since September2009, we got stopped this evening.More officers were summoned, and fourof them explained to me that I wasbreaking the law. “They were notspecific about what law I was breaking.They felt my bike was not meant fortransporting people, only cargo, andthey wanted me to have a motorcycle-style shaped seat on the back and,ideally, seatbelts.

I was not given a ticket, just informedthat if I continue to ride this way theywill stop me again.”

Mum ‘X’ after being stopped by

London police for carrying her twochildren on a legal purpose built trailer,

June 6th

“29ers are a major focus at retail storesspecialising in biking sports. Customersare now asking about them by name. Iestimate that in the future, 50 per centof the hardtails sold in the upper pricesegment in Germany will be 29ers.”

Oliver Hensche, head of the GiantGermany, May 31st

“CYCLING IS constantly evolving. It’snot simply something to do for exerciseanymore. It’s a viable form of

transportation, and as a result theindustry is growing.

“Our new facility will allow us tokeep pace with this growth by providingboth a better environment for ouremployees, and space to bring ourcustomers in for training.”

Trek UK’s general manager NigelRoberts, June 2nd

"The Albion, I like it. It's a little likeRolling stone back when they had Annie

Leibovitz touring with the Stones andsending candids back. Gritty. Real."

Bob Osborn, founder of the USA'sBMX Action Magazine

For more on these stories, head to www.bikebiz.com

Cyclists rise tobread winnerchallenge

quoteunquote

Page 78: BikeBiz July 2011

NORMAL FOR Norfolk is a cruel termdevised by doctors at a Norwich hospital tocategorise intellectually challenged patients.

I'd now like to amend and appropriatethe term for cycling, and replace thederogatory connotations.

Normal for the Netherlands - N.F.N -would stand for conditions conducive tomass cycling. Cycling for "nannas andnippers," as John the Monkey said on Twitter.

Those in favour of the creation of milesand miles ofsegregated bicycleroutes, of the typecommon on thecontinent, believethat grandmothersand children - themass of thepopulation - will beattracted to cyclingonly after theconstruction of saferoutes.

This is a laudable aim. But the presentadministration - like all the others beforethem - seem to have no appetite for reducingon-street parking, taking road-space awayfrom motorised vehicles and spending oncyclists. It's fine to spend billions on wideningmiles of motorways, but political suicide toeven countenance building stuff for cyclists.

So, if I waited until there was a perfectbicycle infrastructure before letting my kidsout on their bikes on British roads, theywould be adults before even a tenth of aperfect network was built.

Thing is, my kids are already Normal for

the Netherlands. They go on cycle holidays.They cycle to school. On roads, with cars.

Isn't this dangerous? Can be, but it'scocooned kids who face the greatest dangerlong-term. A sedentary life is a recipe for awhole host of killer diseases. As we all know,the health benefits of cycling far outweighthe risks.

I suspect that the UK government couldspend billions on bike paths, but this stillwouldn't get people on bikes in the numbers

that segregationists hope for.It's not just the lack of kerbson bike lanes, there's a widerimage problem. Brits havebeen brought up on the factthat cycling is wacky. 'Lookat the funny hats, shoes andtight clothing they wear',seems to underpin a greatdeal of the anti-cyclistinvective you see innewspapers. Sure, the bike

trade profits from hi-vis jackets, helmets andall the other clobber for enthusiast cyclists,but such cyclists are not Normal for theNetherlands. To expand the market, to getto Dutch levels of bicycle spend per capita,we need to normalise cycling. I'm notsuggesting bike shops should cease to stock,or hide under the counter, what tabloidwriters consider ‘pervy’ gear, but might itnot be a good idea to have more 'normal'cycling imagery and goods displayed inwindow fronts and in-store rather than justwall-to-wall out-group stuff?

Afterall, Nippers and nannas tend not togo into Ann Summers stores.

Executive Editor: Carlton Reid [email protected]

Editor: Jonathon [email protected]

Deputy Editor: Mark Sutton [email protected]

Advertising Manager: Carly Bailey [email protected]

Production Executive: Abby [email protected]

Design: Kelly [email protected]

Business Development:Dave Roberts [email protected]

Managing Editor: Lisa [email protected]

Publisher/MD: Stuart [email protected]

Marketing & Circulation: Lindsay [email protected]

Finance Director: Hilary Cole

EditorialSaxon House,6A, St. Andrew Street,Hertford,Hertfordshire. SG14 1JA

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BikeBiz is published 12 times a year by Intent Media – Saxon House, 6a St. Andrew Street, Hertford, Hertfordshire SG14 1JA

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78 BIKEBIZ JULY

SPOKES

EDITORIAL: 01992 535646 | ADVERTISING: 01992 535647 | FAX: 01992 535648

If we want to expand the market weneed to normalise cycling, says Carlton Reid

LATEST NEWS STRAIGHT TO YOUR MOBILE | BOOKMARK US: MOBILE.BIKEBIZ.COM

short and

The boss just daredOwen to eat a raw rotten

egg for a pair of RockShoxRevelation WC XX forks @ononebikes

Guys in my local cycle shopthink reaction by some

blinkered cyclists to AA helmetgiveaway was pathetic

AAPresident Edmund King@aapresident

Made it into BikeBiz' '30 under30' rising stars of the

bike biz article! BIG TIME!http://yfrog.com/h8o3ljtj

@SingletrackSimSim Mainey

Just gave talk at an elementaryschool. Pitched tent in the

library and am only one ever toride bike in school hallways.

@scottstoll

OFF TRACK | SPOKESMAN

Is there a kinder thing to do towoman's foot than give

it a Fizik R3 shoe?@stradacycles

Wondering what the Twitterati have been upto this month? Look no further...

TWEETNormal fornanas & nippers

“If I waiteduntil there

was a perfectinfrastructure

in placebefore letting

my kids on theroads, they’dbe adults ...”

Page 79: BikeBiz July 2011

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Page 80: BikeBiz July 2011

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