Victoria Bowskill

We love this little gadget which is currently being funded on Kickstarter. Sure, as the designers themselves say, it’s not going to change the world – but it will help to keep it tidy, which is no bad thing. So, if you’re all too often scrabbling around the house for stray bits of cycling kit, or rummaging around the car boot for your other shoe, pop along to Neatcleats.cc to pledge a few pounds (anything from £1 towards the project to £1,600 to become a fully fledged reseller)  and keep your s**t together.

What is a NeatCleat?

NeatCleats are a simple and easy way of storing and tidying your cycling shoes after a hard day riding whether you’re at home or on the move.

They are a bracket engineered to fit onto the underside of your existing cycling shoe. They are both MTB and Road bike cleat compatible.

There are two models: a wall-fixed bracket ideal for home or the office, and a portable bracket with carabiner fixing for using just about anywhere.

The NeatCleats wall bracket fits simply, requiring only a 7mm drill and Torx screw driver. Wall fixings for both masonry and drywall/plasterboard fixings are included in your purchase.

Why Bother?

NeatCleats are designed to keep your shoes in one place. No more emptying your car boot trying to find that missing left shoe! It gets them up off the floor, drying and airing faster than before.

The aim is to make your cycling world a little easier by keeping your kit in good condition and in one place so that you are always ready for that next ride, wherever it may take you.

Design

The team have designed and re-designed the NeatCleats to get them just right. A good firm “click” lets you know that you have a good contact between shoe and bracket and that your footwear is secure.

The wall cleats were designed so that the shoe is suspended off the wall, keeping it clean and clear of any stubborn muck.

The carabiner version has the shoes facing each other for as compact a fitting as possible, which again keeps any residual muck away from everything else. The designers have added reflective webbing to the fabric joining the carabiner to the NeatCleats for a touch of extra visibility and have even thrown in a bottle opener on this version for those days when only a beer will do.

Who is behind NeatCleat?

The NeatCleat team is a small group of people who profess to love cycling in all its forms, whether on dirty little paths through forests and back country, or chewing up the roads. With a background in metal work and design they decided that their skills and love for cycling should meet.

Bradford is often overlooked when it comes to Northern cities in favour of Leeds and Manchester. As someone who grew up on the border of North and West Yorkshire I have a fondness for the city – not least for its world class National Science & Media Museum, Pictureville Cinema and healthy craft beer scene. But it turns out it’s also a great city for cyclists, too.

It is a fantastic time for cycling in the Bradford district. The hugely successful Stage Three of the Tour de Yorkshire started in the multi-award winning City Park in Bradford City Centre on Sunday. It took in around 60 kilometres of beautiful Bradford countryside and included three of the eight UCI classified climbs of the stage. These were the 25% gradient Cote de Silsden, the famous cobbled setts of Haworth Main Street on the Cote de Haworth, not to mention the energy sapping 2.1km climb of Cote de Leeming.

 Early estimates from race organisers Welcome to Yorkshire suggested that around one million people lined the streets of Stage Three, according to City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council.

It’s too early to say what the economic impact of the Tour de Yorkshire has been, although Welcome to Yorkshire will be compiling a countywide evaluation of the event which will make for some interesting reading.

Communities in the district pulled out all the stops to celebrate by holding events and decorating their towns, villages, streets and neighbourhoods, many with the help of Bradford Council by way of small community grants, logistical support and advice from council officers.

Many communities and organisations not directly on the TDY route still found a way to be involved by knitting and making mile upon mile of bunting, getting creative and producing artwork and flags, and lining the route on race day.

It’s estimated that more than 6km of bunting was used to decorate the route, 200 yellow plastic ducks floated in the Mogul Gardens in Lister Park and three giant ducks were painted along the road in Addingham in special permanent road-marking paint to be shown on TV across the globe to over 175 countries.

The Annual Women & Cycling Conference

City of Bradford MDC is keen to point out that the cycling fun in the city doesn’t stop at the Tour de Yorkshire: the momentum has continued this week with the role of women in cycling being championed at the third annual Women and Cycling Conference. The conference is being attended by women from across the district and beyond and seeks to encourage more women and girls to start cycling. The conference is being attended by Tour de Yorkshire winner, Olympic medallist, Commonwealth and World Champion local girl Lizzie Deignan. Also attending the event is ITV4 Bike Show presenter and cycling blogger, Jools Walker.

Cycle City Active City

Keeping up the cycling theme, Bradford will also be hosting the extremely popular Cycle City Active City conference on 11 and 12 May. The two-day conference will see delegates from across the country take part in discussions and workshops on all things cycling.

There will also be satellite events in City Park for members of the public to enjoy, including a Pedal-Powered Cinema showing Bradford-related films at 7pm on 11 May, a performance by Bicycle Ballet and an after party of musical performances featuring the Bradford Cycling Band 53-10.

Bradford City Cycle Event

A fun bicycle ride that is open to all will be held on May 14 at the Bradford City Cycle event which takes place on traffic-free roads in Bradford city centre.

The route winds its way through 2.5 mile loop of traffic free roads and people can start and finish at any point on the route. They can also do as many laps of the route as they like. The event has been designed so that anyone of any age, physical ability or cycling experience can have a go.

There will be a range of bikes and helmets for people to borrow if they don’t have their own, as well as adapted bikes for those with disabilities that mean conventional bikes are not accessible to them.

The city of Bradford is now also home to a cycling hub which aims to bring cycling to the fore with a programme of events and cycling themed activity that people can get involved in.

Bradford has more cycling clubs per population than anywhere else in the county and cycling continues to grow in popularity in the region.

Kersten England, Chief Executive of Bradford Council, said: “There really is a passion for cycling in our district. This was shown on Sunday for the start of Stage 3 of the Tour de Yorkshire.

“I’d like to thank everyone who made the event such a success. Hosting events like this take a tremendous amount of hard work and effort not just from communities, residents and businesses, but also from council staff and it really shows what we can do when we pull together.

“There is so much going on in the world of cycling in the district, so if you’ve been inspired by the success of the Tour de Yorkshire come along and get involved in the events that are planned over the coming weeks and months.

“Cycling is of great benefit to the city not just in terms proven health and wellbeing benefits, but also the social aspects of getting together both in hosting and taking part in cycling through events.

“The economic benefits of cycling in the district can not be missed – not just the spending power of people attending events but also the growth in cycling tourism and the boost to the amazing bike building and retail businesses we have in the district.”

For more information about cycling in the Bradford district visit cyclebradford.org.uk.

The weather is grim and spring doesn’t even seem to be close for much of the UK. If you’re feeling blue, maybe it’s time to treat yourself to a new cycling jersey to brighten up rides on dull days. Sure, you might need to layer up with a base layer and arm warmers for a while – but in no time at all, you’ll be stripping those off and cycling in the sunshine, we’re certain of it! Here’s our pick of some of the season’s best new women’s cycling jerseys…

Maloja Women’s MitterseeM.AOP 1/2 Short Sleeve Jersey, £74.00, Wiggle.co.uk

Maloja make good quality cycling jerseys in unusual designs. We’re rather taken with this meadow flower print, which is sure to brighten a dull day…

VOID Ride Women’s Short Sleeve Jersey, £94.99, Sigma Sport

If you’re not so much about the flowers, maybe this edgier look from VOID is more up your street? We love the bright blue and the paint splatter effect (though maybe we’re just so accustomed to having paint splatters on our clothes while we decorate our house that this is the new normal?)

Morvelo Women’s Plume Standard Jersey, £65.00, Morvelo

Once upon a time we didn’t rate Morvelo’s women’s jerseys at all. The designs were cool, but the cut was heinous. The brand seems to have addressed that with a much sleeker cut, and they do some marvellous prints. These feathers are gorgeous. Unusual, a little bit quirky, but sophisticated. Perfect for birds on bikes.

This Is Cambridge À Bloc Long Sleeve Jersey, £105, This Is Cambridge

If you’re not into arm warmers and you’d just like some long sleeves while it’s cold, thank you very much, then we think you can’t go wrong with this sharp black and fluoro pink option from This Is Cambridge. It’s slick and sporty with a hint of Gallic charm thanks to those stripes. TIC – This Is Chic!

Black Sheep Cycling Rosa Season 8 Women’s Kit, £210, Sigma Sport

Admittedly, this is a bit of a splurge because it comes as a whole kit. But it’s awfully nice. The graphic floral print is both pretty AND edgy and we think this would look every bit as good with arm and leg warmers as it will with bare limbs on warm summer days.

Seen any awesome cycling jerseys? Do share! Tweet us at twitter.com/vampercc.

Spin Cycling Festival is returning to London this month at a new, bigger venue. Spin, a showcase for the latest urban and road products for the UK’s cycling community, will take place at Olympia from the 12th – 14th May and will feature bikes, kit, ideas, culture and inspiration for cyclists.

WHAT’S ON AT SPIN CYCLING FESTIVAL 2017

Shopping
Research and buy from a hand-picked selection of over 150 cycling brands from all corners of the globe.

Makers’ Lounge
Checkout the finest framework from London’s leading bike builders, joined by internationally-renowned custom-made pioneers from Denmark, Belgium, Scotland, Mexico and Germany, featuring the likes of King Bicycles, Alba Frameworks, Donhou Bicycles, Dear Susan, Mercredi, Hartley Cycles, Shand Cycles, Quirk Cycles and more.

Exclusive Artworks
Find something special for your walls with some of the best cycling prints and artworks on the market, from names including Eliza Southwood, Massif Central and The Fluffy Tractor.

The Summit
Be inspired by experts, comedians, makers, designers and pros from the cycling world and beyond, including Ned Boulting and Chris Boardman as they headline the main stage.

Red Light District
New for 2017, this is the place to see the finest fastest, lightest bikes around. Witness a spectacular reveal of the most exquisite bikes in the world.

Day-Night Test Track
Get a feel for latest tech, kit and your new wheels on our atmospheric street-lit indoor track – essential for safe and stylish winter commuting.

The Bike Project is an award-winning charity and social enterprise that refurbishes second-hand bikes for refugees in London. Visitors at Spin can donate any old or unused bikes providing a free, sustainable means for refugees to access essential resources and services such as education, healthcare and psychological support.

Plus, with craft beer, street food, DJ sets and live music throughout the weekend, whatever cycling experience you’re after, you’ll find it at Spin.

SPIN Cycling Festival Summit Speakers

With Ned Boulting and Chris Boardman headlining the main stage you can expect to hear talks from brands such as Leigh Day, NEOS Cycling, Cycling Industry News, Milltag, Conductor, Cyclehack, Urban Cycling, London Cycling Campaign and more.

• Ned Boulting – As the face of ITV’S Tour De France coverage since 2003, the Tour of Britain, and the Vuelta a España, Ned has a unique position within the cycling world as respected reporter, presenter, and writer. He’ll be joining our illustrious Summit speaker programme, hosting the Q&A with Olympia medallist and cycling campaigner Chris Boardman.
• Award-nominated Conductor have created game-changing campaigns for cycling brands Canyon, Kask and Chapeau! They’ll present a trade-focused talk on branding in cycling, a must for those looking to work in the bike industry.
• Simon Warren, author of the ‘Greatest Cycling Climbs Books’ will take to the stage at Spin Cycling Festival on Sunday 14th May giving tips and advice on 10 ways to bagging a KOM
• ‘A new way to shop’ – Innovation in the cycling trade’ – this discussion takes place on Friday 12th May and is brought to you by speakers Richard Allmark, Founder and Managing Director of NEOS Cycling and Mark Sutton, Editor at Cycling Industry News
• Designing, prototyping and testing new ideas within the context they are designed for, Cyclehack work on solving the barriers to cycling, connecting citizens and allowing them to be part of a positive change where they live.

SPIN CYCLING FESTIVAL OPENING TIMES

Friday 12 May 2017 1pm – 8pm
Saturday 13 May 2017 10am – 5pm
Sunday 14 May 2017 10am – 5pm

Where?
Olympia London
West Hall
Blythe Road Entrance
W14 8UX

ADVANCE TICKET PRICES

Book in advance and save:

Adult: £10
Adult Group Rate (3+): 25% off £7.50
Teen (12 to 17 years): £5
Child (0 to 12 years): Free

ON DOOR TICKET PRICES:

Adult: £15
Adult Group Rate (3+): £10
Teen (12 to 17 years): £6
Child (0 to 12 years): Free

London-based cycle wear brand Huez* has launched its first women’s cycling collection, incorporating the same attention to detail, fit and garment construction as we’ve seen in their men’s offering.

Having only launched in 2014, Huez* is still one of the new kids on the block and offers a fresh take on cycling apparel and the lifestyle of the modern cyclist. The collections are designed intelligently to inspire riders whilst incorporating key technical attributes into their designs.

The newly-launched Huez* women’s capsule collection will form the basis of a wider range, in line with the menswear collection, that will be available next year. The capsule focuses on women’s road wear that encompasses performance and technicality of the highest standard.

Premium fabrications are sourced from all over the world to offer the most innovative materials, which incorporate technical elements seamlessly into the design. Although the current capsule collection is small, the brand has made clear that it it features the same high quality and attention to detail as the men’s range. The brand has worked closely with their customers to create products that either do not exist in the market or are unfit for purpose, offering the latest in technical apparel. They wanted to create pieces that were designed specifically for women and cut to their individual needs, allowing them to perform at their best on the bike.

Huez* Women’s Cycling Collection – SS17 Product Design Details

Huez* Bia Jersey

The Huez* Bia Jersey has been created to encompass the performance and technicality of the most high end race jerseys while retaining comfort and practicality. The Bia jersey, which retails at £125, is suitable for year-round racing, training and everything in between. 4-way stretch fabric provides performance-boosting compression and comfort, while the low-cut neck line provides classic, race-inspired styling.

A multitude of rear pockets – five of them, no less! – accommodate all the essentials for a day on the road along with a removable waterproof pouch that allows smartphone touch functionality from outside the casing. Small silicone pellets at the cuff and waist band keep everything in place, and mesh detailing on the back panel provide extra breathability.

The Huez* Bia jersey has a marble texture design on the front and rear panel, and it is available in two colour ways: a subtle purple, Jimi, and the vibrant Sky blue.

Huez* Bia Bib Shorts

The Huez* Bia bib shorts have been developed with technology borrowed straight from the pro-peloton. The Bia bib shorts are manufactured with an Italian Lycra designed to stretch with the body while providing compression to improve blood flow and performance whilst reducing the risk of muscle injury. Coupled with seamless straps, ultrasonic seam edges, mesh ventilation and reflective details makes the Bia bib short ideal for Sunday club rides and for taking on the longest audax.

The colourful radio pocket at the back coordinates with the jersey colour and allows extra room to store valuables (in case your five jersey pockets are not enough). The chamois has been specifically designed for the female form and features variable foam density where it’s needed most.

The leg gripper has fine silicone dots to keep the cuffs from riding up. The short also has a buckle fastening system to improve ease of removal which might just make loo stops that bit easier. The buckle has been positioned to sit away from the body for comfort and ease of use. The Bia Bib Shorts are priced at £165.

We’re looking forward to seeing what Huez* will add to its women’s cycling collection in the future.

If you’re frequently travelling with your beloved bike, you might just be interested in the new slim-line, lightweight, strong and secure Bonza Bike Box. It has been designed for use by any cyclist looking to transport their bike safely, from weekend warriors to professionals. Weighing in at only 12kg, the Bonza Bike Box is one of the lightest premium hard case bike boxes on the market.

The Bonza Bike Box features strong and lockable catches for optimum security, along with internal strapping and high quality foam padding. Slim in shape, and with a striking, colourful design, the boxes are easily identifiable on the airport conveyor belt.

We are working closely with a number of top professional cyclists and triathletes to continually evolve the design, in line with their training and racing needs

Buddy Bradbury, Founder of Bonza Bike Box says, “we are delighted to be in a position to launch our bike box range, and look forward to bringing an innovative and new product to the market. We are working closely with a number of top professional cyclists and triathletes to continually evolve the design, in line with their training and racing needs”.

The product’s route to market has been thorough – Buddy continues, “We’ve put the boxes through extensive testing and scrutiny, and aim to set the standard in bicycle transportation and protection. We are really happy with our final product and can’t wait to hear what everyone thinks of it!”

The Bonza Bike Box retails at £475 via www.bonzabikebox.com, but is available at the special introductory price of £350 plus free shipping until the end of April 2017. Simply enter GOBONZA at checkout, and the discount will be applied automatically.

If you are planning a trip with your bike this summer, be sure to check out this handy guide to airline charges for bikes.

Rivelo produces consistently high quality cycling clothing at competitive prices, and we’ve been fans since the brand launched. Our derrieres have ridden many miles in comfort thanks to Rivelo’s top notch bib tights and shorts, and the brand’s hard shell Larkstone and Langcliffe jackets have battled through downpours. So, it was with high expectations that I unwrapped some of the brand’s latest offerings: the women’s Frensham thermal long sleeve jersey, Hazelwood 3/4 bib knickers and Ashdown long sleeve merino base layer. They are all available to purchase here.

Rivelo Hazelwood 3/4 Bib Knickers

In an ideal cycling world, I daresay we would all like spring to arrive swiftly and warmly at the beginning of March so that we can cast aside our thermal tights, woollen socks and windproof gloves. Unfortunately we seemed to have a particularly long and cold winter this year, with frosty starts continuing far longer than any sane cyclist would like. Being a particularly soft sort, there was no way I could jettison full length thermal tights in favour of 3/4 bib knickers, so it wasn’t until late March that I finally ventured out in the Hazelwoods.

A good pair of 3/4 bib knickers is great for this time of year, when it’s too cold to get your knees out, but no longer cold enough to merit top-to-toe insulation. The Rivelo Hazelwood 3/4 bib knickers are excellent: they feature the brand’s signature high density chamois pad from Cytech with bacteriostatic, a quick drying and cooling fabric covering which means they’re great for any length of ride, from commuting to lengthy weekends adventures. The thermal fabric keeps the chill out and offers a high level of compression and support, and there’s no danger of flashing your bum at passing riders – the fabric isn’t remotely see through.

I’m wearing size medium and they’re a comfortable fit, snug and compressive without being restrictive.

The Hazelwood 3/4 bib knickers have plenty of useful features: reflective details and a zip pocket for valuables, a breathable mesh brace bib with a zipped front which is really comfortable and feels snug and supportive, and mesh panels on the backs of the knees for comfort and breathability.

I’ve found these bib knickers really comfortable: the bib is not too stretchy, so they don’t slide down at all while I’m riding. They stay in position really well so there is no need to fidget and tug things back to where they should be. I haven’t been on any lengthy rides recently – we’ve just been pottering about locally, riding up to 30 miles a session. Because of that I can’t vouch for comfort if you’re thinking of wearing them on a 100 mile ride. That said, we haven’t really been putting in the miles recently for various reasons, so I had expected to be rather saddle sore after a 30 mile breakfast ride – but no, the chamois pad did a great job of keeping me comfortable.

I like the look of these tights, too. The flash of red around the calf is a welcome injection of colour and looks fabulous, darling, with the Frensham jersey in navy and red…

The Rivelo Hazelwood 3/4 bib knickers retail at £130.

Rivelo Frensham Thermal Long Sleeve Jersey

I adore the look of this jersey, and it’s madly comfortable. Soft and snuggly, nicely proportioned, excellent pockets – it’s just lovely to wear. I really like this vibrant shade of French navy which is a chic alternative to black, and which looks great with red and white for a rather jaunty, nautical look. It’s a great jersey, and one that is so comfortable I find myself keeping it on around the house or popping it over a teeshirt to go down to the shop.

The Frensham long sleeve jersey has capacious pockets which are amply big enough for all of my ride essentials: an emergency Soreen banana loaf (or two), a compact pump, a Pocpac, tissues, keys and lip balm. I could have fitted more in, for sure. The pockets are also nicely snug and stretchy, so you needn’t worry about stuff bouncing out as you career over speed bumps and around potholes. (Surrey roads, I’m looking at you.)

The jersey is really nicely cut and doesn’t ride up when I’m pedalling. With its chic styling, practical pockets, reflective detailing, high quality zips and comfortable collar and cuffs, the Frensham is a great piece of kit. It’s also finished with DWR treatment in case you get caught in the rain.

My only criticism is that its usage is a bit limited. It’s not warm enough to replace a jacket in winter, but it is a warm jersey so once spring has sprung, it might be too much to wear on rides. I don’t tend to find that my long sleeved jerseys get a huge amount of wear – with a winter jacket on top I find I get too warm, but once the mercury begins to rise a long sleeved jersey can often be too much on its own for me.

If you put in plenty of miles in those in-between seasons, the Rivelo Frensham is a very comfy compromise between jersey and jacket.

The Rivelo Frensham long sleeve jersey is available for £100.

Rivelo Ashdown Long Sleeve Merino Base Layer

I’ve been wearing the Ashdown base layer a lot. I’ve worn it on the bike, I’ve worn it out walking, I’ve worn it around the house, and I’ve worn it with a jacket and jeans at the weekend. It kept me warm in Glasgow one bitterly cold weekend in November. I love it. The stripes are gorgeous – navy and black is just a great combination – and it’s really comfortable. I prefer it to my Rapha merino base layer which is itchier and less flattering.

The lightweight striped Merino/Poly Ashdown base layer is odour resistant and moisture wicking, so it’s a great commuter top. If you work in a casual office and can cycle in your street clothes, it wouldn’t look out of place at work with a pair of black or navy trousers. I will be packing it on our upcoming Canada trip – I expect the weather to be good in June, but this is a lightweight, cosy layer if the temperature drops in the evenings and it won’t take up much room in my suitcase.

Great base layer. No complaints, whatsoever.

You can order the Rivelo Ashdown Long Sleeve Merino Base Layer for £55.

Regular readers of Vamper will know that we’re big fans of super chic, super clever urban cycling brand MEAME. Now, the brand – founded by Islington-based husband and wife team Megan Aylott and Steven Azancot – is crowdfunding to take this stylish cycling brand to the next level.

The MEAME crowdfunding project is live on Crowdcube and the investment opportunity is open for another 13 days.

Central St Martins graduate Megan and designer Steven created MEAME after spotting a gap in the market for functional but beautiful cycle clothing for the city commuter.

We’re at an exciting stage of the business, and I’d love the community to join us on the journey. MEAME are at the seed stage and with backing we can grow into something beautiful developing innovations that complement our everyday life.

Megan’s background as a graduate from the renowned fashion school Central Saint Martins, coupled with Steven’s experience as a keen cyclist and designer, has enabled the couple to develop and establish a striking portfolio of beautiful and timeless pieces which draw on a heritage of British tailoring with high functionality and cutting edge textile technology.

MEAME’s quintessentially British styling with urban flare is disrupting the performance and active wear market. In taking a fresh direction in this burgeoning sector, the brand promises to continue innovating in the field, with exciting new developments ahead.

MEAME are offering the public and brand supporters an opportunity to be part of their success through crowdfunding. Co-founders Megan and Steven are sharing their #MEAMEfuture with their customers and community, inviting them to join what will be an exciting growth journey.

Money raised through crowdfunding will accelerate MEAME’s progress by expanding the range of apparel on offer and allowing Megan and Steven to continue developing new and innovative technologies.

If you would like to be a part of the #meamefuture – which we’re sure is a bright one – you can view the crowdfunding campaign here: Crowdcube

MEAME have also created a short film for their crowdfunding drive, which you can view here: Vimeo 

For more information about the brand, visit MEAME where you can view their current range of Performance Fashion clothing, or follow MEAME and #meamefuture on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

The latest initiative from Make it York and Visit Ryedale is a woefully misguided attempt to encourage more women to cycle. It’s more #thisgirlcan’t than #thisgirlcan.

My heart sank when I read the press release emailed to me this morning, entitled “The great British bike-off: York & Ryedale find the perfect recipe for girls on bikes”.

By the end of the second paragraph my hackles had risen with this outdated, patronising sentence from the President of British Cycling Bob Howden: “[York & Ryedale] is the kind of place where girls really can have fun, on two wheels!”

The third paragraph did nothing to soothe my irritation with this bit of generalising claptrap: “Women demand much more from their cycling,” adds Michelle Brown, Tourism Marketing Manager of Make It York. “It’s not about pounding the pedals or roughing it on holiday for bragging rights. According to research*, there are three magic ingredients to an enjoyable cycling experience for ladies – it needs to be fun and friendly, and it needs to feel safe.”

I’m sorry – it’s not about pounding the pedals? It’s not about bragging rights?

Ok – I must have got it wrong! Perhaps I’m the only female cyclist who uses Strava. My bad. I apologise to the rest of the fairer sex if I’m giving womankind a bad name, chasing after QOMs and turning the air blue when I don’t beat my rivals. I must be wrong, to be pushing myself hard when I cycle, breaking a sweat, working to become a stronger, faster cyclist.

Then comes this gem:

“York & Ryedale are surrounded by some of the best cycling country in the UK so, to get girls out exploring in a fun and friendly way, the region has created a series of tea-room trails. Designed for gentle escapism, not leg-busting, they feature award-winning, top-class tea-rooms famed for cakes, bakes and connoisseur-grade coffee and tea that, not make great places to meet up with friends and family, but are also ‘safe havens’ along the route, where cyclists know they’re going to get a great welcome – and a spot of well-deserved luxury.”

Well. Thank goodness I can look forward to some luxury and pampering when I’m out in my bib tights. Lord knows that what I long for when I’m on a weekend ride is to park my sweaty, possibly mud-splattered derriere on a floral armchair.

What is this nonsense? Who are these female cyclists seeking nothing more than gentle escapism?

But that’s not all. Oh, no. There are some added attractions for ‘girls on bikes’.

How about “exceptional sightseeing and selfie moments en route”? Thank goodness – after all, if it’s not on Instagram it didn’t happen! I only choose routes based on the selfie opportunities they present. Erm…

But better than that, there is a support team so that “there’s no need to break a nail” – and no, I am not joking. That is actually a sentence in this press release. Heaven forbid one of us should break a nail. Do they have a makeup artist on hand, too, to touch up our lipstick and dab away perspiration ready for those selfies? How about someone to fix your helmet hair?

I’m not saying supported rides aren’t a good thing – it was fantastic going on a supported ride with Yorkshire Velo Tours last year. It’s the condescending justification that gets to me.

“There might be a few hills, but don’t let this put you off – there’s no shame in getting off to appreciate the view on the way (and even more excuses to replace that energy with a tea-room treat at the end!)” – now, look. I’m not a great hill climber. And Lord knows I’ve struggled with some of the climbs in God’s Own Country. But this is just so condescending. And with a population which is growing increasingly fatter and ever more prone to Type 2 Diabetes, can we please stop with this obsession over cake? For crying out loud – we’re grown women pursuing an outdoor activity, of our own choosing. We don’t need sweet rewards. It’s one thing to enjoy tucking into a piece of cake and a cuppa on a tough ride, but we’re being told we don’t need to ride hard, we can get off for a rest on hills, and take shorter routes that won’t wear us out. How are those calories from multiple tearoom stops actually going to be burned?

I’d love to see an end to this twee dumbing down of cycling. Cycling isn’t about cake. Grown women don’t need incentivising with sweets. What we do need are more strong role models for girls to see as they’re growing up so that breaking a sweat – and a nail – is normalised and seen as healthy and enjoyable rather than something to avoid. Let’s not encourage women to hold themselves back. Let’s not encourage softness and the idea of the passive, gentle female stereotype. We’ve had little else for centuries.

In 2017, #ThisGirlCan do a lot more than eat cake and preserve a manicure.

Fundraising charity Club Peloton has announced that registration for the Legal & General Real Assets pedElle 2017 is now open. Designed to bring together women in the property industry to network, ride and fundraise, the fifth edition of the event will take place 17th-21st May 2017.

Over three days, the cyclists will ride 500km from Porto to Lisbon, stopping over at the inland cities of Viseu and Leiria along the way. With beautiful scenery and a lot of climbing to contend with, the event presents a considerable challenge. The riders will be spurred on by their fundraising for Coram, the UK’s oldest and first children’s charity, and Club Peloton’s principal beneficiary. The money raised will go towards Coram Adoption, which finds safe and loving homes for some of the UK’s most vulnerable children, including those who have suffered from abuse and neglect since birth.

PedElle is run as a group ride, with the peloton riding together at the pace of the slowest rider to ensure that everyone finishes the ride together. And in order to help the riders complete the challenge not only successfully but also enjoyably, Club Peloton provides support both pre- and on-event to ensure both bodies and bikes are as fully prepared as possible and to keep them rolling once out on the road.

Pre-event there are training rides and spin classes, as well as informative evenings to advise riders on training, nutrition, clothing and group riding skills – all essential for those riders who will not have undertaken a mass participation multi-day event before and who may only have taken up cycling relatively recently. For those new to cycling, Club Peloton has years of experience in helping riders get started, providing advice that is invaluable when you don’t know your derailleur from your dropout.

On-event support comes in the form of an energetic and enthusiastic support crew, a lead car, ride captains to look after the riders out on the road, sports injury therapists, mechanics, a paramedic (for emergencies only) and a luggage van. The cyclists are therefore left free to concentrate on the job in hand: cycling 500km for charity.

“The ride provides a fantastic way not only to fundraise, but also to network,” commented pedElle repeat rider Emily Knott from Legal & General Real Assets. “Not only do you ride further than you ever thought possible, but the format generates a sense of support and camaraderie that is unlike anything you’ll ever experience in an office, building long-lasting friendships and working relationships.”

“We’re delighted to be bringing the Legal & General Real Assets pedElle to the beautiful roads of Europe once more,” said Nick Hanmer, Chief Executive of Club Peloton. “As ever, we are keen to continue our mission to encourage more women into cycling. For those that have never cycled before, pedElle 2017 is a fantastic opportunity to get on a bike and challenge yourself in the company of many other incredible women, all the while raising money for a fantastic cause.”

Registration for the Legal & General Real Assets pedElle 2017 is now open here.

To find out more about the event please click here.

We are really kicking our 60 Second Interview series into the next gear with our latest edition as we feature the reigning Olympic and European Team Pursuit Champion and Commonwealth Games Individual Pursuit Champion, Joanna Rowsell Shand.

Having watched and read a great deal about Joanna over the the years, from her World Championship exploits to her most recent success at the Rio Olympics, we felt it was about time we and our readership learned a little more about what makes this Surrey girl tick.

See what Joanna had to say in our Interview with the Vamper: 60 Second chat.

Joanna, who or what inspired you to ride? How did you get into cycling?

I started cycling back in 2004 having been talent spotted by British Cycling. They came to my school and carried out some basic tests on the playing field which involved a sprint across the field and an endurance test which was 6 laps of a 200m circuit. Interestingly, I wasn’t actually the best at my school but I was good enough to be invited back for further testing. The next stage of testing was far more scientific – on turbo trainers using bikes equipped with SRM cranks – and it was here that I really excelled, producing good peak power and also a good 3 minute test.

Following this I was given a place on the South East region Talent Team. They gave me two bikes – a mountain bike and a cyclocross bike (which could double up as a road bike by changing the tyres) and some basic kit. We had a training camp over a weekend once a month and each month would try a different cycling discipline. That summer I enjoyed watching the Athens Olympics and was particularly inspired by both Chris Hoy and Bradley Wiggins and loved the look of racing on the track.

What is the best thing about being a professional cyclist – and what is the worst?

The best thing is that I get to keep fit and healthy for a living and I get to spend many of my days outside in the countryside. However, there are also many days in the middle of the summer when the weather is gorgeous and we are stuck inside the velodrome or the gym. And many days in the winter when it is cold and wet but there is a four-hour ride on the planner.

However, the worst thing I would say is trying to constantly avoid illness and how this takes over my life. You never want to miss a day of training and a cold, chest infection or the flu can really set you back. I seem to have a particularly weak immune system so especially in the build up to major competitions or during a very hard training block I will be using antibacterial hand gel and wipes and avoid things like shaking hands or even touching door handles. It takes over my life, but it is necessary as I am so susceptible – especially when I have been training so hard. When I retire I will definitely be the opposite – there won’t be a hand gel to be seen!

Does your heart lie on the road or on the track?

When it comes to training my heart lies on the road. I love exploring the countryside and I don’t enjoy training on the track at all. I feel like a hamster in a wheel! However when it comes to racing I far prefer the track. I love the noise of the crowd, the butterflies when I hear the countdown beeps, and the motivation to break records.

Tell us about your current favourite ‘off-track’ or road ride: where do you like to go? Which bits of the country/world?

I love training in Lanzarote as the roads are lovely and smooth and the weather is warm all year round. However, my heart will always lie in Surrey which is where I am from. I used to stomp up Box Hill on a daily basis back before cycling was popular and it was our little secret. When I first started cycling if I saw another cyclist out on the roads it would be worth telling people when I got home as it was so rare. Now Surrey is heaving with cyclists, which is brilliant to see, and my favourite roads will always be in the Surrey Hills.

Which of your cycling achievements are you most proud of, and what do you most want to achieve in your career in the future?

This is a tough one! If forced to pick, I would choose my Commonwealth Games gold medal for the Individual Pursuit in Glasgow 2014. As this event was removed from the Olympic programme, to me the Commonwealth Games were like my Olympics for that event. Earlier that year I had won the individual World Title but to then back that up with Commonwealth gold was very special.

The one thing missing from my palmarès is an individual Olympic gold. The Individual Pursuit was the event I was originally talent spotted for so I would love for that to come back in to the Olympic programme for Tokyo as it is a classic and pure event in my eyes. If it doesn’t, it’s not the end of the world – I have had a pretty good run with team pursuiting!

When you’re not training, how do you enjoy spending your time?

I love going out for food and trying new independent restaurants. I enjoy watching films so I can often be found at the cinema, which is about as exciting as a night out gets as an athlete when training! I am a fan of the Harry Potter books and grew up reading them (the first was released when I was 8 and the last when I was 18) so I was very excited recently to see the new Fantastic Beasts film. I far prefer the Harry Potter books to the films so it’s a shame we couldn’t have read the story rather than just see it on the screen. Although I am not complaining – I am very glad JK Rowling is writing more stories for us.

I also love to travel so when I have time off the bike and no other commitments I like to plan a trip to somewhere I have never been before, even if it is somewhere in the UK. I enjoy travelling by train and if I have just a weekend off it is nice to have a change of scenery and see somewhere new.

Fitting in nicely with enjoying travelling, I also love to take photos. Wherever we go I will be searching for the perfect sunset shot or waiting for the right light to capture a new sight. My Instagram is an interesting mix of views, sights, my cat Charlie and a few selfies!

If you could go for a bike ride with anyone at all, dead or alive, who would it be and why?

JK Rowling – so I could question her in depth about the wizarding world!

What is your favourite piece of cycling kit, and why?

I love my Wattbike! I am now sponsored by them but even before that when I first started using one I was amazed at how much better it was than a normal turbo trainer as it felt so much more like riding an actual bike. As a track rider I do a lot of specific training sessions and the Wattbike makes this aspect of my training so much better.

What three tracks are guaranteed to get you fired up for a ride, no matter what?

Salt n Pepa – Push It

Rihanna – Work

Beyonce – Run the World (Girls)

Christmas gifts for cyclists shouldn’t be a struggle. After all, there’s usually something functional that we need, from spare inner tubes to a new light, and there is always something covetable that we hanker after, whether it’s an all-singing, all-dancing Garmin or a slick new kit.

So, read on for Vamper’s pick of the best Christmas gifts for cyclists. Or, if you’re a cyclist and you’re writing your letter to Father Christmas, feel free to print it out and post it up the chimney to wing its way to Lapland…

For her: ‘Live life on 2 wheels’ women’s fit hoodie from Bon Courage, £46.00

Who doesn’t want something cool and cosy to wear post-ride? I wear my Bon Courage hoodie a lot. It’s ludicrously soft and cosy. A tip – the sizing isn’t massive, so order a size up to have plenty of lazy, snuggly room to spare.

For him: Endura Pro SL Primaloft Gilet, available from Sigma Sport, £99.99

Matt pounced on this gilet when he spotted it in the autumn. It doesn’t scream cyclist, so you can wear it off bike for brisk walks without looking like a twit. It’s super lightweight, folds up small, and it’s cosy. A useful and cool present, we think. You can order it from Sigma Sport.

For her: Rapha Deep Winter Gloves in Hi-vis Pink, £110

Now, don’t curse me for listing wildly expensive items. I know these are madly pricey. But if the cyclist in your life suffers from poor circulation and very cold hands, a pair of serious gloves could be the difference between enjoying winter rides and feeling utterly miserable. What’s more, the bright pink shade is fab-u-lous, as Craig Revel-Horwood would say. Order them from Rapha.cc.

For him: MAAP Dot Merino Cycling Socks, available from Sigma Sport, £22

Ok, ok – so socks at Christmas are a bit of a cliche. But merino socks are so good for winter cycling, and the natty polka dots and stylish charcoal palette are very smart. We think most cyclists would be pleased to find a pair of these in their Christmas stocking. You can order them here.

Parcours Passista Wheelset, £750

Ok, so this is a big gift. Probably the pinnacle of Christmas gifts for cyclists. But if the two-wheeled dervish in your life has been very, very good this year, this is a fantastic bike upgrade. We rode out with the Parcours team to see how the wheels feel and the 56mm rim Passista both looks and feels fantastic. You can read more and order them here.

For her: As Bold As Drench Coat, €178

Commute by bike? Then this waterproof coat from As Bold As is a lovely solution to the on bike/off bike jacket dilemma. It has plenty of useful on-bike features, like dropdown hi-vis panels, reflective detailing and a dropped back for a mud-free bum – but it looks stylish and elegant off-bike, too. Every bit as good with your work outfit and over your bib tights. You can order it here.

For him: Gore Bike Wear ONE Gore-Tex Active Jacket, £220

This stealthy cycling jacket looks properly cool. If Batman were a cyclist, surely he’d wear this? And it’s pretty clever, too, featuring a ‘shake dry’ surface to keep you dry on rides of any length. With a wealth of five star reviews to its name, we think this is a present worthy of the most dedicated cyclist. You can order it from Wiggle.

Garmin Edge 520 bike computer, £199.99 from Sigma Sport

If it’s not on Strava, it didn’t happen, right? We know we’re not the only ones obsessed with recording our rides. If you’re a data-obsessed cyclist and you’re all about nailing Strava segments, this is a great gadget. What’s more, it connects to a smartphone to provide alerts – helpful if you urgently need to contact your other half when they’re out on a ride. How I wish Matt’s Garmin had been able to alert him to the fact that I [thought that I…] was locked out of the house one freezing morning when he’d ridden over to Richmond Park for a spin…… (Admittedly, after an hour on the doorstep in the cold it finally dawned on me that I actually had the keys in my rear pocket. Had Matt been alerted to my messages, he could have reminded me of this fact………)

Order the Garmin Edge 520 here.

Cadence Collection Contrary Winter Cycling Cap, £39

Having cold ears when you’re cycling sucks. And when the wind is howling and your ears start to ache, it’s amazing how quickly you start to long for a ride to be over. This Belgian-style winter cycling cap from Cadence Collection is supremely cosy and will keep even the chilliest of ears warm. On a recent early morning ride, every part of me was cold except my ears thanks to this cap. Order it from Cadence Collection.

Rivelo Ashdown Merino Base layer, £55

We’re always impressed by Rivelo cycling gear, and the latest range features some great baselayers. I’ve been wearing the Ashdown merino base layer a lot and it’s really warm, does a good job of wicking, and the stripes are really smart. It looks good with jeans, too. There is a men’s version, too – the Hathersage – which comes in a very nice shade of teal. Find them at rivelo.cc.

For her: dhb Blok Intersection Women’s Cycling Kit, £95

Christmas isn’t all about gifts for winter. While we’re firmly esconced in merino baselayers and thermal bib tights at the moment, the way this year’s raced by it won’t be long until we’re celebrating the arrival of spring. What better way to celebrate than in a gloriously bold cycling kit? We love the new Blok range from dhb. It’s well priced and the designs are sharp. Order it from Wiggle.co.uk.

Urban Circus Reversible ‘The Juggler’ Jacket, €130

The final item on our list is this awesome reversible, reflective jacket from French urban cycling brand Urban Circus. The Juggler jacket is not for shrinking violets – the reflective side is a crazy, bold, zesty orange with a pattern that could be perceived as either bike wheels or oranges. Whichever way you see it, it’s a wildly effective reflective cycling jacket on one side, and a subtle black off-bike jacket in reverse.

Australian eco cycle wear brand OORR – Out of the Rat Race – has launched a new Kickstarter campaign to fund the production of cycling and fitness apparel enhanced with coffee and ‘Frog Skin’ nanotechnology.

I admit, we were quite baffled when we read that description. But after watching OORR founder Tim’s video explaining the technology and green credentials behind the clothing, we’re intrigued. I love coffee for the way it tastes, smells and gets me going in the morning – but did you have any idea that incorporating it into textiles could bring other benefits? According to OORR, the introduction of coffee grounds into the cloth construction both reduces odour and increases the refraction of harmful UV rays. That sounds pretty impressive. As one of the sweatiest cyclists in Britain with skin which is very prone to burning, I’d be up for sporting a jersey with those features.

We haven’t tested these products, but we do think they might be worth a punt: watch the video on Kickstarter and tell us what you think in the comments! The campaign runs until Tuesday 29th November and the funding goal is AUD $35,000.

Out of the Rat Race – the Background

OORR founder Tim decided to get into cycling jersey design after becoming fed up of being, in his words, target practice for Sydney drivers. His initial plan was to create some jerseys with a message – gimme some space! – but after some research realised that several other companies had already done it. But during his research, he discovered some alternative fabrics that were becoming available to the market that could be beneficial.

A self confessed greeny, Tim decided to search for eco fabrics suitable for use in cycling and learned that no one else was doing recycled fabric jerseys off the peg. What’s more, he felt that the fabric which was available was uncomfortable, and didn’t look great.
 He embarked on an ambitious mission: to develop a jersey of superior quality to anything available from big brands, and to do it using recycled materials.

After a lengthy period searching for someone who could produce small batch knits for testing his fabric, he finally found success. The OORR flagship jersey needed to be tough, high performance, wearable year-round and look the part.

While Tim had hoped to create the jersey entirely within Australia and New Zealand, it became apparent to him that the expertise in this industry lay in Asia. When he finally found the right jersey manufacturer it took a further 8 months to refine the look and fit for what would become the OORRiginal jersey.

The OORR team is now developing a wider range of jerseys, bibs and options for women.

The Mantra of the OORR cycling brand is ‘Performance wear for the planet’. Tim believes that demanding performance from your apparel shouldn’t cost the earth – and he doesn’t mean dollars. Looking at what he has achieved so far with OORR, it is clear that using recycled products does not mean there should be any need to sacrifice performance, comfort or style.

The OORR Mission

• To create beautiful apparel and accessories using recycled and/or sustainable resources.
• To challenge consumer perception of recycled materials, and change purchasing habits, effecting a shift in the broader market towards production that is good for the planet.
• To contribute part of our profit to aid social and environmental causes.

The OORR Name

Out Of the Rat Race. You might want to break free of the shackles of society and experience the freedom and breathtaking majesty of the road in solitude. You might want to get ahead of the peloton, and stay there. You might want to ride whenever and wherever you please, leaving your phone and watch behind.

OORR is all about breaking the mould and pursuing the dream. Back yourself. Commit. Get Out Of the Rat Race.

The CSR Credentials

OORR is a certified B Corporation. B Corporations are a new type of company that use the power of business to solve social and environmental problems. B Corp certification is to business what Fair Trade certification is to coffee or USDA Organic certification is to milk.