BikeBiz Issue 35, December 2008

Issue 35 | December 2008

HALFORDS IS trialling a newstandalone store concept – CycleRepublic – which strikes plenty ofsimilarities with its existingBikeHut chain. Can both brands besupported at once, or will Halfordshave to choose one or the other?

As put by financial directorNick Wharton: “It would beunlikely that we would progresswith both brands. BikeHut isperforming well, but is for themost part very south-eastcentric. Our first two Cycle

Republic stores have opened inYork and Norwich. With thesestores we shall roll with them fora while and learn from themodel, nurturing it forwardgradually until we are happy withthe result. From there we willlook at our options.”

Halfords has laid thefoundations of what couldpotentially be the beginning of anew chain carrying a similarrange to that of BikeHut. So isthis a simple rebranding?

Wharton continued: “WithCycle Republic we’ll be targetingthe more serious bike rider, whileoffering further support at theworkshop end – aiming toattract customers with anindependent, specialistenvironment. Initially, there willbe a small management team

overseeing the early running ofthe brand, keeping a close eye oncustomer needs and feedback.The trial is likely to conclude atsome point during 2009, atwhich time we will discuss thebest route forward.”

Confirmation was not givenabout a speculated websitelaunch. Wharton continued:“We’ll make decisions on asupporting web page when we’resure we’ve got the right nameabove the door and the rightformat. As for bricks and mortar,our latest financials highlightthat we believe there’s potentialto open 50 of these storesnationwide in the long run.”

CEO David Wild, said during hisfirst major delivery since joiningHalfords in August: “We recognisethat smaller standalone retail

stores will rely on a repair facilityfar more than our mainstreamHalfords stores, so we will plan tooptimise our labour and repairmodel going forward. Cycling is asignificant growth market drivenby the economy, sustainability andconsumer well-being.”

During the interim resultsannouncement it emerged thatcentral Europe – in particularPoland and the Czech Republic –is also seen by the company as akey expansion ground for 2009.

Wild revealed: “The marketcharacteristics of these countriesremain attractive going forward.Where existing stores lie,performance remains encouragingand consumers seem to beaccepting the brand. Cycle salesare hitting the mid-market ‘sweetspot’ in particular.”

FOR EVERYONE IN THE BICYCLE BUSINESS DECEMBER 2008

The Saltash-baseddistributor is celebratingten years in the business.Carlton Reid talks to MDDarren Mabbot

PAGE 22

SILVERFISH – DECADE OF TRADEFuture is topping thetables in the specialistpress sector at present.Group publisher KatherineRaderecht explains how

PAGE 16

FUTURE INTERVIEWCoreBike provides dealerswith a one-stop solutionto making key stockchoices. BikeBiz previews2009’s show

PAGE 27

CORE BIKE – PREVIEW

BikeBiz Halfords trials IBD-style stores‘It’s unlikely that Halfords would progress with both BikeHut and Cycle Republic’ says financial director �

Potential for 50 new stores nationwide � Retail giant to expand presence in central Europe during ‘09

IN JANUARY and February alonethere are four house-shows –CoreBike, IceBike, Fisher OutdoorExpo and Raleigh’s dealer day.Registration for all is now live.And the dates for each show areas follows: RALEIGH DEALER DAYS –January 18th to 23rd at Raleigh’sNottingham HQ;CORE BIKE – January 25th to27th at Whittlebury Hall,Northamptonshire;FISHER OUTDOOR EXPO –

February 15th to 17th atEdgbaston Cricket Ground;ICEBIKE – February 24th to 26that Madison’s Milton Keynes HQ.

Madison’s IceBike expert WillFripp told BikeBiz why houseshows are important: “It’simportant for us to maximisedealer attendance. At this stagewe’re up on last year and dealerscan confirm their attendance atany time between now and theshow’s kick-off. Of course,Madison has provided plenty of

excuses to attend – both forsocial and business reasons.Apart from the obvious reasons –such as meeting the mindsbehind the brands – we’ll providethe famous Madison hospitality,£50 in M&S vouchers for thosewho pre-register online and willbe hosting business seminars anddealer dinners with the inclusionof our Retailer Awards.”

Raleigh’s marketing assistantPam Simmons told BikeBiz:“Dates for the Raleigh Dealer

days are split among Cyclelifedealers, who are invited onJanuary 18th and 19th, RaleighMain Dealers who are allocatedthe 20th and all other dealers,both current and prospective,who may attend betweenJanuary 21st to 23rd. Cyclelifeand Raleigh Main Dealers will beoffered free sales courses, H&Sadvice and marketing courses, ontop of the evening dinner andchances to view new product.Accomodation is also available.”

Leanne Wellings, marketingmanager for Fisher Outdoor saidof its Expo: “We’ll have exclusiveoffers and promotions, as well asworkshops to improve productand brand knowledge, seminarson key industry topics, and Expo‘09 challenges. We aim to ensurethat attendees will leave feelinginformed about our brands, feelsupported and valued by everyarea of our business and thattheir partnership with Fisher isstronger than ever.”

Retail gears up for the house-show season

Halford’s CEODavid Wild and FD

Nick Wharton

SHOULD WE be dusting downRandy Kirk's Bicycle Retailers Guideto Getting Rich in the Recession?This slim and US-centriccompanion to Principles of BicycleRetailing was a diverting read whenit was published in 1989.

If you could get past thesacchrine, peppy sales talks, itboiled down to cutting excess fat,sharpening your act and benefittingfrom the bike trade's famous

resilience in times of economic uncertainty.Unlike the recession of Kirk's book, the one we're living

through is very different, especially for the bike trade. Thelux end of the market may be softening, but utility is takingup the slack. We have bike companies riding high in thestock markets and car companies in the doldrums.

Taiwan's Giant and Merida are churning out bikes, partsand profits like there's no tomorrow. Japan’s Shimano hasreported 12 per cent higher sales year-on-year in the firstnine months of 2008 and has increased operating profits by27 per cent. Whereas Japanese car companies havestruggled against the strong yen.

And, domestically, it seems like local authorities arefalling over themselves to promote cycling, with London atthe top of the heap. Good for bike sales.

Surprisingly, Boris Johnson's plan to ape the Parisian Velibpublic hire bicycle scheme is relatively low key. Transport forLondon is planning to place 6,000 hire bikes at 400locations throughout central London by 2010. TfL believesthe 6,000 bikes will generate around 40,000 extra cycle tripsa day. 6,000 bikes is not a lot. Paris has 20,000.

But it's good to see Boris nailing bicycle colours to hismast: "I have long held the view that a cyclised city is acivilised city; but if we are to get more Londoners on to twowheels rather than four we need to provide the facilities tohelp them do so. I believe that the work we are carrying outcan make the capital a city of cyclists, where to use twowheels is common not curious."

The velib-style bikes will add to the mix. London's bikeshops need not fear the rental bikes. As Lyon and Paris havefound, bike sales go up when rental schemes are put inplace. Newbies try the bikes, find they like the experience,but not the weight of the bike, so they buy 'proper' bikes.

Paris was once a cycling ghost town. Now it's humming.

LATEST NEWSSTRAIGHT TO YOUR MOBILE EDITORIAL

DECEMBER ISSUE 35

NEWS 6-12 Electric bike market survey, KTM’s ambitions for theUK, another BM-XMAS at retail? and more...

REGULARS

Following solid investment bythe publisher in new talent,BikeBiz interviews Future

INTERVIEW

16

LETTERS 53Road Peace campaigner Alan Ramsey airs hisviews and encourages trade involvement

SECTOR GUIDE 47BikeBiz analyses the latest wheels, tyres, tubesvarious styles of pump and more...

SPOKESMAN 62The pound is being bullied and costs are goingthrough the roof. Spokesman speaks...

COREBIKE

SILVERFISH SPEAK

CHAIN REACTION 14We invite ex-bike store owner and freelancejournalist Myles McCorry to vent his spleen...

INDUSTRY OPINIONS 19What worth has the cycle DVD with the likesof Youtube? And what worth has the bookwith the rise of the blog. BikeBiz asks around

PEOPLE 38Shimano Europe adds a president to its payroll

With sign-up now live to retailers, BikeBiz offers a run downof likely products on offer from distributors

Carlton Reid, Editor

SILVERFISH INTERVIEW

FOCUS ON…

22-23

PARTS AND ACCESSORIES

47-50

Carlton Reid talks business with the Cornwall-basedwholesaler. See page 22 and 23 for more...

BRAND SPOTLIGHTTSG talks about business, product and how dealers can get kidsinterested in protection. No, not that kind...

BOOKMARK US:MOBILE.BIKEBIZ.COM

27

22-23

20 Bike shops need not fear

rental schemes. As Lyon and

Paris have found, bike sales go

up when newbies try cycling...

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PUBLISHING group Future hasextended its portfolio of liveevents with the announcementof BikeRadar Live – a brand newbike festival. The new show willinclude road and mountain bikerides and races, bike demos, ashowcase for the latest gear andwill also act as an industry-wideexpo with products across alldisciplines.

BikeRadar Live is Future’s firstnew event announced for 2009and is an extension of thecompany’s events portfolio,which includes the popular BikeDemo Days.

On the weekend of May 29thto 31st, Donington Park,Derbyshire will play host to thefirst instalment of the show witha weekend of riding and racing,with a whole series of featuresand treats planned.

Key off-road features will runall weekend, including challengesand races for all skill levels. Roadcyclists will get the chance to

compete in various endurancepursuits on Britain’s new F1Grand Prix circuit, as well as theopportunity to challengepersonal bests, and also tracksessions for fun – hosted byCycling Plus and ProCyclingmagazines.

Grant Norris, show manager atFuture said: “Producing an allencompassing, interactive eventwill be a big hit with the public.There will be something for all,whether you are competitor, anenthusiast or just into cycling,we will have it covered. Bringyour bikes, get involved andenjoy.”

Other attractions will includea huge manufacturers exhibition,dual slalom competitions,endurance rides, a sportif and aweekend-long programme ofcycling movies and world recordattempts. There’ll be kids andfamily events too, including akids’ bikes demo, kids’ races anda family camping area.

NEWS

Attractions will include amanufacturers exhibition and

various competitions covering awide vaiety of disciplines

Future announces BikeRadarLive event for May 2009

AS PART of the company’sexpansion into the UK, KTM isencouraging independentretailers to trial the brand.

UK sales manager, MattBeighton told BikeBiz: “We arenow looking for goodindependent trade shops tocome forward and express aninterest. In year one we arelooking for the right shops totake some product and try it,without there being a pressureon that store to shift hundreds ofunits. It’s about nurturing arelationship and understandingwhat KTM is about.”

On the back of the initialtrade preview of the range atCycle ‘08, the brand receivedplentiful interest on the followingconsumer show days. Beightonadded: “Cycle ‘08 was deemed tobe a great success by all at KTM.The main problem we had wasthat with just one trade day andthree more open to the public.We found it hard to putmembers of the public in touch

with their local shop, as at thattime there were few confirmed.”

KTM bikes are designed, testedand built in the Mattighofenheadquarters. To further bolsterdealer confidence in the brand,three-year warranties come asstandard on all carbon frames,while five-year warranties are

extended on alloy frames(including full suspensionmodels).

“We are here to sell highquality product based on itsvirtues, and not just buy themarket with margin,” addedBeighton. “We have a simplefour-tiered price structure set up

with no gimmicks attached, wecan offer 90 days payment termsshould shops be interested, orthere is a 30 days earlysettlement reward for those thatprefer to pay up front.”

For more information on KTMdealership, contact 07967506416.

KTM seeking UK independents

Show to include rides and races for all disciplines � Event doubles up as anindustry expo backed by the publisher’s magazine and website portfolio

6 BIKEBIZ DECEMBER BIKEBIZ.COM

BS6102 standardgiven more timeStock of non-CEN standardproduct will have a ‘graceperiod’ during which it can besold after the implementationof the new CEN standards.The industry will negotiatehow long this period is withthe DfT.

Free trainingmonitor foriPhone ownersiMapMy has launched adownloadable iPhoneapplication capable ofrecording time, distance, pace,average speed, maps and atraining log, all of which isuploadable to twitter post-ride. It’s free to download atwww.imapmy.com. Just don’ttell your customers…

Who’s who?In the November issue ofBikeBiz we put Ed Ibbetson’sname to Illy Anastasi’s face inthe Hotlines interview. Weapologise for any confusionthis created…

Consumers fearrecession durationJust one in five consumers areconfident that the UK couldgrow out of recession withinone year, according to theBritish Retail Consortium. VAT cuts are expected as partof plans to ease the strain onsmaller businesses. VATcannot be lowered past 15per cent.

EICMA Bici to holdB2B event infuture?EICMA director, CostantinoRuggiero has been quotedsaying he believes a newbusiness-to-business eventduring summer 2009 “isneeded by the Italian cycleindustry” mainly for thebenefit of dealers.

Saddlebackreceives firstSRAM shipmentFollowing the first outing ofSRAM product at Cycle ‘08,Saddleback has now takenstock of the first majorshipment. Saddleback can becontacted on 01454 299965.

NEWS

CYCLESHORTSZyro and Zefal announce

new UK distribution dealZYRO HAS announced a newlong-term, exclusive agreementwith Zéfal of France to distributeits comprehensive range ofcycling accessories to UKretailers, effective from January1st, 2009.

Zéfal has previously beenrepresented by six differentdistributors in the UK. However,the whole range is nowexclusively available via Zyro.

Aurélien Brunet, sales andmarketing director of Zéfaloffered: “We are confident thatour new agreement with Zyro isa key move towards re-establishing the Zéfal brand in amarket leading position in theUK cycle market.”

Zéfal is widely recognised withinthe cycle trade, having a longstanding presence harking backto the neon green frame bagsand zebra bottles of the 1980s.The company also manufacturedaluminium pumps in the 1950s,

and became the world’s largestpump manufacturer by the1980s, selling over 100 millionpumps per year.

Chris Raven, Zyro’s brandmanager said: “I’m personallyvery pleased with thisarrangment. They have proved atop company to work withalready, loads of heritage andpedigree, and an awesome newproduct range to offer.”Zyro – 01845 521700

E-BIKE sales are predicted toskyrocket in 2009, according toresearch by A to B editor, DavidHenshaw. The survey, conductedalongside UK electric bike brands,forecasts that 23,000 units willsell in 2009, 53 per cent morethan the 15,000 set to have beensold by late December.

“E-bikes seem to be recessionproof,” said Henshaw. “Car salesare expected to plummet by tenper cent in 2009, but the bikemanufacturers are forecastinggrowth to almost 23,000 units.”

The total value of the UKelectric bike market was £13million in 2008, yet sales of £25million are predicted for 2009.

Further emphasising the

sector’s potential, the reporthighlights how popular the e-bikeis across mainland Europe. In theNetherlands, over 120,000 will besold this year and it’s thoughtannual sales could hit 300,000 ina few years. In Germany, e-bikesales are expected to doublebetween 2007 and 2009.

Powacycle has introduced atwo-year warranty on its newInfinium range to ease dealers’technical concerns that were seento be slowing the market’sadoption of electrics.

E-bikes are legally classified asbicycles provided they havemotors of 250 watts or less, and atop assisted speed not exceeding15mph.

A to B publishes first survey onthe UK electric bicycle market

Exclusive agreement for French brand’sentire range effective as of January 1st

BIKEBIZ.COM BIKEBIZ DECEMBER 7

The brand began producingaluminium pumps in the 1950s,

becoming the world’s largestmanufacturer by the 80s, sellingover 100 million units per year.

Chris Raven, Zyro’s new brand manager

Powacycle and Powabyke are two of the UK’sbigger brands fighting for market share

Sales in Britain to hit 15,000 units this year � Market reported to be worth £25 million

SRP £ 8 9 . 9 9

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Simple steering• Easy transition to freewheeling• Children learn fast to ride with confidence •

Buy 4 to get free freestanding ZOOM

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Available to all Madison customers•

NEWS

WTB PRODUCTS are to bedistributed throughout the UKby Fisher Outdoor Leisurestarting from January 2009. Thedistributorship will give WTBaccess to Fisher Outdoor’sexpertise and extensive marketcoverage, and takes WTB’s rangeof performance products intoretail stores throughout the UK.

“Customer service, timelydelivery, and excellent salesrepresentation are the corecompetencies of Fisher OutdoorLeisure, which make them agreat fit with WTB and ourcustomers. They are an excellentaddition to our growing networkof distribution partners,” saidKaterina Rejchrtova, chief

executive officer at WTB Europe.Richard Allmark, CEO of

Fisher Outdoor Leisure, added:“WTB’s innovative product linecomplements Fisher Outdoors’premium brand portfolio. Theaddition of WTB brand tyres,

saddles, grips and wheels to ourportfolio makes us truly thecomplete source for cyclists.”

For additional information onWTB’s complete 2009 productline, visit www.wtb.com, or flickto page 50 for a run down of thebrand's tyre solutions. WTBEurope can be contacted viaemail at [email protected].

For information on FisherOutdoor Leisure, visitwww.fisheroutdoor.co.uk.

WTB joins the Fisher portfolio

The addition of WTB brandtyres, saddles, grips and wheels

makes us (Fisher Outdoor) a trulycomplete source for cyclists...

PROPEL DISTRIBUTION hassigned up three brands to join itsrapidly growing portfolio.Princeton Tec, Vicious Cycles andChamois Butt'r will all feature inthe brand new 2009 catalogue,which is now live onwww.propelbike.com.

Princeton Tec is a lightingbrand brought in from the US.The brand has around 30 yearsexperience in providing lightingfor divers, while today, thecompany supplies many outdoorsports companies, transportcompanies and the US military.

For 2009 Princeton Tec bringssome innovative, yet inexpensiveperformance compacts and

commuter lights alongside itshigh performance 'switchback'series of rechargeable high powerLED lights, perfect for off-roadwinter riding.

Next up, US custom framemanufacturer Vicious Cycles willbe shipping its handmade steeland titanium frames to the UKcomplete with a range of paintand decal finishes. Propel willbegin taking Vicious orders rightaway and expects the delivery ofVicious only standard stockproduct, including the brand'shigh-class hand-made steel forkby early December. These forksare the perfect rigid partner toany high spec steel frame with

26, 29, 650B, 700c and touringversions available.

Vicious also offers 26-inchmountain bikes for geared orsingle-speed riders (men's orwomen's versions), 29-inchwheeled models, MTB, 650B forgeared or single-speed, road,cyclocross or touring frames in853 steel or Ti.

Last of all, Propel has taken onChamois Butt'r, another brand withretail success in America. ChamoisButt'r is a skin lubricant that helpsto prevent the discomfort ofsaddle soreness associated withextended periods in the saddle.Chamois Butt'r can also be usedto sooth sore skin post ride and asa conditioning cream.

Several formats are available,the Chamois Butt's 'classic' in an8oz tube (230ml) or newEurostyle 8oz tub (230ml) with alittle added menthol 'tingle'.Chamois Butt'r is also available isten packs of single servingsachets, making a great counter-top grab.

MD, Toby Smith said ofprogress this year: "Propel hashad a very eventful year, Formulabrakes won every group test theyentered and many of our dealershave done very good businesswith this brand. Morewood wasalso very strong for us in 2008.Meanwhile, for 2009 weintroduce new products andbrands. We introduce our B2Bsite soon and a new stocksystem that will change the waywe work with dealers and oursuppliers. We will be extendingcustomer discounts acrossbrands and products toencourage dealers to be a littlemore adventurous."


Three new brands Propelled into UK market

POWABYKE is stepping up itsassault on the UK e-bike marketwith the introduction of anelectric folder due in the spring.

Ben Carey of Eventy(Powabyke's PR firm) confirmedthat 2009 will see a wave ofbrand-new models: "The plan isto introduce more models basedon the same principles of a sleekand lightweight bike and battery.The first new product will launchin the spring '09 and will be ournew folding bike, full details ofwhich will emerge shortly. Thenew X-byke design has been verypopular this year, and we will belooking to build on this successwith the new folding bike," saidCarey.

"We've had exceptionally goodsales figures since theintroduction of the X-byke inSeptember, and have pre-sold

the next two shipments. Salesare continuing to go very well,especially in the run-up toChristmas, which has been quietin the past. We're hoping thistrend will continue throughout2009 trading.”

Confirmation was also giventhat dealers appeared to be farless wary of the market."Powabyke are finding that moretraditional dealers are nowbecoming more open to theprospect of stocking electriccycles following their seeminglyrecent increase in popularity.IBDs are embracing the world ofe-cycling, and in turn we'rehelping them to boost theirprofit margins."

On the back of the company'sgrowth, an optimistic forecasthas been set out for 2009. Careycontinued: "Powabyke arepredicting a massive boost in theelectric market during 2009, withseveral factors combining to thiseffect. Firstly, the economicdownturn is prompting people toconsider alternative transport,and, for many, electric bikes are agreat option that can help toboost fitness levels and savethem thousands of pounds ayear. Secondly, the latestgeneration of electric bikes ismaking e-cycling a more viableoption, with lightweight andincreasingly inexpensive designsretaining a high-quality."

Powabyke to launch e-folder

The winter-specific product isdesigned to handle the GreatBritish weather perfectly

PowabykeMD Nick Child


PLANS to provide a cycle hirescheme in London by May 2010are achievable, according to afeasibility study. Transport forLondon has now invitedcompanies interested in thecontract to get in touch.

From May 2010 peopleshould be able to pick up anddrop off hire bikes at 400locations across the nine Londonboroughs and Royal Parks thatmake up London’s zone onetravel area. An initial 6,000 hirebikes are expected to generatearound 40,000 extra daily cycletrips in central London.

The Mayor of London, Boris

Johnson, said: “When Londonerselected me they knew they weregetting a champion of cyclingand someone that would be apeddler of pedal power. I havelong held the view that acyclised city is a civilised city;but if we are to get moreLondoners onto two wheelsrather than four we need toprovide the facilities to helpthem do so.”

'Mog' of London retailerBrixton Cycles was optimisticabout the scheme's impact onretail. He told BikeBiz: “If it everhappens, I wonder who willrepair the fleet – well, that will

be us! Workshop repairs are agreat source of income for cycleretail, the only problem is we’reswamped as it is. Has a greatdeal of thought gone into howthe fleet will be theft-proofedtoo? There have been similarschemes trialled previouslywhere the entire fleet hasdisappeared within months.

“On the upside, the biggestsurge we ever saw in sales wasduring the tube strikes long ago.People came to us saying theyhad no idea that cycling to workcould be so simple andpleasurable. If the scheme takesoff I can see plenty coming

through our doors to buy bikesof their own.”

Kulveer Ranger, the Mayor’sdirector of transport policy, said:“The release of the feasibilitystudy and the call for companiesto tender to provide a cycle hirescheme are further stepstowards providing the mostsustainable, healthy andenvironmentally friendlytransport system ever seen inthe Capital. We are workingincredibly hard to ensure Londonwill be in a position to hit thetarget of a 400 per cent increasein cycle journeys in London by2025.”

NEWS

Hire scheme ‘achievable’

MOORELARGE (1)KMC has developeda tool specifically designed toaid chain dismantlementwithout allowing any damageto occur in the process.

The 'Missing Link Plier' is thefirst of its kind to hit themarket and provides a quickand safe way for all cyclists todismantle their chain.

The recommended retailprice for the KMC Missing LinkPlier is £11.99.

Knog also has a new rangeof lights out – dubbed ‘Beetles’.The lights feature two LEDspacked into one shell and abudget friendly retail price of£12.00. Like Knog’s otherproduct, it doesn’t followconventional design and assuch is a highly versatile lightcapable of clingingto most areas of abike. The Beetlesemit 20,000lumens per unit.Moore Large – 01332274 252

HOT WHEELS (2)EXPOSURE has launched a newseries of coloured half-linkchains for all those out therewho like to decorate their ridesto the finest detail. Coloursinclude pink, green, white, goldand standard silver. TheShortlink chains retail for£12.99 for standard silver and

£15.99 for coloured options.Hot Wheels – 01202732288

PURE COL (3)PURE COL has developed a‘magical pill’, which when

taken every day helps kill jointpain, increase your agility,stamina and performance whileworking out and ultimatelyboost fitness. The 100 per centpure collagen formula comes intablet form, providing the idealsolution for gym-goers,athletes and sports people alikeseeking physiologicalprotection, maintenance andrepair.

Collagen is the mostabundant structural proteinfound in cartilage, muscle,tendons, ligaments and bones.It has, however, beenscientifically shown thatcollagen diminishes at a rate ofapproximately 1.5 percent per annumfrom the age of

25 years onwards – which iswhy it is essential tosupplement this reduction toensure optimum maintenance.

With over 20 years ofresearch and development, thenow patented formula ensuresthat the objectives of optimum

bio-activity and as close to100 per cent absorption by thebody is achieved.www.collagen4u.co.uk

WICLER (4)INNOVATIVE device Wicler isan electronic handsetspecifically designed for thebike, featuring Blue-toothhands-free technology, whichcan be linked to mobilephones. Secondary functionsinclude an MP3 player, FMradio and as an additionalsafety bonus, a bright frontlight. As if that wasn’t enough

functions squeezed intothe handy mountablegadget, it also soundsa bell on command.

The gadget featuresan in-built powerful

speaker, microphone andhigh-contrast LCD screen forease of use.

Being mountable to a bike,

it’s resistant to the elements,dust and vibration. The systemalso doubles up as a road-legalhands-free kit for car journeys.

Javier Villar, MD of Wiclersaid: “It is a gadget that willcome especially well in pre-season, in that it is necessaryto do endless cycling journeysto obtain resistance. In myopinion, Wicler is going to bevery good for the world ofcycling.”www.wicler.com

NEOGUARD (5)NEOGUARD has just receivedits latest delivery of secondgeneration NeoGuardmudguards. From the initiallaunch, rider feedback has beentaken into consideration and asa result the thickness of theneoprene has been reduced by½ mm to aid the stretchiness.The length of the large modelhas also been reduced by10mm to better fit Boxxer andFox40 forks. The length of theextra small has also comedown by 5mm to help fitshorter travel forks.

Neoguard has just signed adistribution deal with TribeSport Group in France, whilethe brand is currently innegotiations with several UKdistributors and hopes to makean announcement soon. To find out more, [email protected]

KMX (6)ON THE back of scoopingthe best new product awardat Cycle ‘08, KMX Karts hasexpanded its plans for the

UK market. Now distributed byRaleigh subsidiary EurotrekRaleigh, dealers can get hold ofthe seven-model range, whichconsists of both kids and adultmodels.

Barry Smith, the inventor ofthe KMX Kart, said: “Once youhave ridden a KMX you arehooked and all our customerfeedback tells us that theypreferred our trikes over ourcompetitors’ so we know weare on the right track – we alsogive one-to-one, post-salescustomer support which isunrivalled.”

As a pre-Christmaspromotion, KMX is offering freedelivery (worth £15) on trikesordered before December 16th.

In the next year, there willbe an electric ‘assist kit’launched that can be fitted toany KMX. Also, a rental specificmodel aimed at holiday leisurecentres is planned, as well ascontinuing development of thecurrent models andaccessories. KMX is also hopingto use the karts to roll out aroad safety campaign withlocal schools.

Karts are priced from £234to £1,741 (retail).KMX – 02392 750000

NEW PRODUCTS

6

13

5

ON FIRST glance it appears to bean extensive warehouse packedfull of engineering equipmentand mechanics. Venture furtherinto ATG’s brand new state-of-the-art skills facility, dubbed TheFuture Centre and you’ll findstudents lined up around workbenches, sat at computers,huddled round demonstrationsand tinkering with various tools.

The move from the originalAylesbury-based venue wasconfirmed during the summerand a schedule set to have thecentre moved entirely by earlySeptember. The official opening,however, took place mid-November with ATG’s Board of

Trustees chairman, DavidGranshaw, declaring the 33,000square foot facility open with thesnip of a ribbon.

As a not-for-profit charitableorganisation, all profits made arere-routed directly back into thebusiness. And with theGovernment looking to stimulatethe declining numbers of thosein work, organisations like theATG are already benefiting fromincreased investment, which isset to grow further in future.

Matt Goodrich, the ATG’s headof cycle training, told BikeBiz:“There’s been massive change inthis past year in theGovernment’s attitude to skills

NEWS ANALYSIS

ATG opens opportunitiesDuring summer, skills training charity ATG made the decision to re-locate to a larger premises within theborders of Aylesbury. On November 14th the centre was declared open to the masses. Mark Suttontakes a tour of the brand new facility and asks what can it offer future generations of cycle mechanics…

David Granshaw,Chairman of ATG’sBoard of Trustees, andTony Edwards, themanaging director ofATG Training, declarethe facility open


training. Adult learning issomething that is being takenvery seriously as the economydips. If you have left schoolwithout five GCSEs, we can nowalmost guarantee that financialassistance can be provided. Thecriteria is set to be relaxed in theNew Year, too, which is greatnews because a singleapprenticeship is worth up to£6,000."

Industry InvestmentIt’s not just Government supportthe group receives either.Distributor Madison is a stronginvestor in the charity, offeringcut-price equipment from its topbrands – including bikes fromCervelo, Ridgeback and Genesis,equipment from Park Tool andcomponents from brands such asDT Swiss, which sponsors ATG’swheelbuilding programme.

Richard Peploe, productdirector at Madison told BikeBiz:“We’ve been working alongsideATG for a decade now. ForMadison, growing the industrywith qualified personnel is veryimportant. We have mechanics ofour own, so we know howimportant it is to invest in skillstraining. Once in a while we haveour technical brands visit us inMilton Keynes to train ourmechanics on how to set up newproduct. For example, we’ll beinviting ATG’s guys along to meetShimano’s tutors in December,who will then teach set-up of thenew Di2.”

When asked what theexpansion means for cycle skillstraining in the UK, Goodrich

explained: “We invite ten studentsper course, yet with this vastlyexpanded facility we can take onmore courses. From January, we’llhave a new trainer joining us inthe cycle department, meaningstudents will have greatersupport on courses. I think thevenue move was made possiblebecause both cycling andeducation are two industriestaken very seriously. As such,

we’ve never been so popular. Theold building down the road willbe sold shortly, proceeds of whichwill go right back into studenttraining and equipment.

“The expansion will also meanthat we can cope with thedemand better. Previously, wecould only run one course at atime. With the expanded spaceand staff base, we’ll now be ableto run two simultaneously.Typically, we have a turnaroundof 40 students per month. Onaverage the pass rate is justunder 90 per cent. At the end ofthese courses, people who may ormay not have had adequateenough qualifications to enter aprofession can walk away withNVQs worth five GCSE gradesand become a Cytech recognisedmechanic.”

In what will come as a reliefto cycle stores nationwide,before students can get theirmits on the latest Cervelo, basicsafety and hygiene is taught as amodule of courses. Students(many of whom are fresh out ofschool) are being taught by stafftrained both as teachers and asmechanics. The tutors are trainedto spot specific learner types,meaning each class of ten will

receive an experience tailored toits needs. Soon enough, thecentre will receive its firstOffsted inspection and particularattention will focus on thetraining of the cycle trade’sscores of young mechanics.

A question of classGoodrich said of the students:"We find that, for the most part,students genuinely are enthusedby the subject. The fact thatthey’re working on top-end kithas a big impact on the students’attitude to education. ATG’s staffare well-trained and used toworking with all age ranges. Thenew facility has a spacious,professional workingenvironment complete withindividual work stations,computer rooms and areas to

study theory – although coursesare largely hands-on.”

There’s plenty of inter-coursecross-over opportunity, too.Within the engineeringdepartment of the new facility,students can be shown the CNCmachining process, as well asvarious other engineeringtechniques, which could inspirethem to study bicycle designfurther.

The Government recentlychanged legislation to make

apprenticeships available tothose aged 64 and below.Funding is now potentiallyavailable to any over-25s whoare working two or more daysper week.

To enrol your spanner monkeyon one of ATG’s courses,available at Aylesbury,Manchester and at mobilefacility currently in south-Wales,call Elaine Powell on 01612306241 or visit the websitewww.atg-training.co.uk

Typically, we teach around 40students per month, of which

around 90 per cent pass. Students canwalk away with NVQs worth five GCSEgrades and Cytech accreditation.

NEWS ANALYSIS


Specialist courses, such as wheelbuilding andservicing forks, are available to students. DT Swiss

sponsors the wheelbuilding classes

Thanks to a partnership with Madison,students will not be working with rusty BSOs

THE MASTER: Matt Goodrich, ATG’s head of cycle training

IT FINALLY happened to me andit happened today. I feel lost,ashamed, sorry and stuffed withextraordinary amounts of self-loathing. After nearly ten years inthe retail trade, dealing with thepublic, the people of the world’sproblems, desires and demands, Isnapped. Flipped and fell into thepit of shame and despair called(say slowly with an aged voice)’self contempt’.

Winters day, ‘twas about 5.30,three quarters of the way into a12-hour day. A middle-agedwoman came into the shop.Dyed hair, tired coat and brownhat. I had several differentapproaches to the customerswhen they enter my domain –all based on initial contact.

They ranged from a simple“hello” with an open, ready-to-help face, to “Hiya, listen, I hopeyou don’t mind... There is nosmoking in here.” Informativeand not overtly threatening.

Sadly, my blackened soul’sburden has grown brittle overthe years and has wearily, finallyshattered. And you did it. You,and your sort. The general public.That woman and her silly,harmless question has turned meinto a crabbed shit and I take noblame for the horrible mutation.

I didn’t set out to be this way.But the years of the public haveembittered me. Then the ladywalked into my shop. The anti-bitch. When I caught sight of herin the camera, my brain smirked.Okay, let’s have daft question.

My, 'no greeting' to heralready made the air tense. Theremust come a point when it isbetter to say nothing than to beoffensive. I rolled my lips,frowned and glared, waiting.Knowing what was coming next.Her hesitation compounded thesituation further. Out of a plasticbag she fumbled to producesomething black and slightly toolarge for its packaging. She heldit up like a soiled-panted kid toits mother. The question: “Canyou fix my kettle, son?”

And then somewhere a starexploded and my chair in heavenwas tossed into the mirth oflower hell.

Outside my shop it says ‘bikestore’. No, ‘specialist bike store’.

Three times. There is an eight-foot high painting of a cyclist onthe wall, bikes in the window,bikes on the walls. Wheelshanging from the ceiling. There isan overwhelming smell of tyrerubber and there is a mountainbike video playing on a 28-inchTV screen behind my head. Ihave a t-shirt with a bicycleemblazoned across the chest.And she also negotiated twolarge cycle stands, eachdisplaying six bicycles to reachour current stance.

I wanted to be more surprised.I longed to be stunned, althoughit took a while for the words tocompletely sink in. I stood therestaring. I tried to work out wherea kettle would go on a bike; evena really well-equipped one. My

delay filled with loathing. Notfor this woman, for the collectiverequests that produced theanswer “Sorry, this is a bikestore.” Just bikes. No tennis orfootballs. No lamp fuses. Noclutch pads for a Honda, no clips,hooks or special nails. All out of a‘bit of wire that long’. I don’tknow where you would buy oneof those, or if they open on

Sundays, or the price.No, the bastards who have

whored my shop door over theyears, bringing their half-wittedrequests to my livingenvironment. It’s a feckin bikestore!! We don’t fix watches orhoovers or sell a wee round thingto fit in there. I am all out offootball boot studs, batteries andhover bags. No camera bits orwalking shoes. Kids dressed elsewhere and no; I don’t know whatit is either.

Even when it is cycle related Iget confronted with the miserlogic of: “do I owe youanything”? I have no idea howyou got the impression that abike repaired and parts replacedwould cost money. Well ofcourse you owe me something,you numpty, it’s called a freemarket economy. I missed the

United Nations ‘bike repair aid’sign outside, here’s the dream ofme in a sky blue beret eagerlywaiting to attend to woundedbi-pedal machinery.

People have made me shyaway from people. ”Do you thinkit is punctured?” ‘Well I don’tknow, sir. The fact that it is flatand there is half a Jameson’swhisky bottle sticking out of the

tyre could be a wee clue.'“Can I... have a, a wee ah... It’s

about this size... Ach, you know?“How in the name of all twelvemonkeys could I know!”

The woman stood there withthe element. Too long a time hadpassed since the question. Ilooked at her in dismay, I felt sadand looked lost. She broke eyecontact, replaced the kettle withthe polished spout tearing whatwas left of the bag and all shecould do was swaddle the plasticbag around the blackened metalbase, I heard a few languid vowelnoises as she excused herself outthe door. Don’t blame me forbeing a shite. It’s her fault. I amthe victim here.

In playback, I opened the door,apologised and directed her upthe street to the electrical store.The reality was cold. My internal

temporary menace has filled mefull of self-loathing and sparkeda chance in vocation.Them: “I am looking for a weesilver bit for my bike”Me: "Is it a single coil helix returnspring?"Them: “Is that what I need?”Me: "I don’t know, but you’re theone who started the stupidquestions, ye flump."

Perhaps a year or two prayingupon a cloud-bound temple inNepal, atop high stone steps,meditating, restoring my mind,manners and faith in our species.It’s not just me. Go into anyshop, a real shop, and even if youknow what you want, make eyecontact, then stare at the ceilingand say this sentence as slow asa person who was not familiarwith the English language would,while looking for a verb in aphrase book.

“Can I have... wait til I get thisright... I need one... no, two... No,one would do... Eh.” And seewhat happens! Shop staff hateyou, the public. We hate othershop staff. Worst of all, we hateourselves. So don’t go in ‘on anoff chance.’ Go in with directionand keep small talk to aminimum. If you need a nail,buy the nail. The guy does notneed to know what it’s for andwhy the thing broke or even whythat person who broke it hasn’tbeen the same since the caraccident, even if he said hewould pay.www.mylesrants.com.

Sorry, this is a bike store. Notennis balls, no lamp fuses, no

Honda clutch pads, nor do Ihave a ‘bit of wire that long’.

Freelance cycle journalist Myles McCorry previously ran a bicycle businessbased in Omeath, Ireland. Here, hereflects on the day a culmination ofdealing with mindless customers cameto a head...


CHAIN REACTION

Breakingpoint

SPOTLIGHTUPCOMING EVENTS

CORE BIKEJanuary 25th to 27thWhittlebury Hall,Northamptonshirewww.corebike.co.uk

FISHER OUTDOOR EXPOFebruary 15th -17thEdgbaston Cricket Groundwww.fisherexpo.co.uk

TWOOFebruary 19th -22ndBasel, Switzerlandwww.twoo.ch

ICEBIKEFebruary 24th -26thMilton Keynes, UKwww.icebike.co.uk

BIKE ASIAFebruary 27thSingapore, www.bikeasia.org

NORTH AMERICANHANDMADE BICYCLE SHOWFebruary 27th - March 1stSingapore, www.bikeasia.org

TAIPEI INTERNATIONALCYCLE SHOWMarch 17th to 20thTaipei, Taiwanwww.taipeicycle.com.tw

BICYCLE LEADERSHIPCONFERENCEApril 15th to 17thSeeside, Californiawww.bicycleconference.org

SPEZI ‘09April 25th to 26thGermersheim, Germanywww.spezialradmesse.de

CHINA INTERNATIONALBICYCLE AND MOTOR FAIRMay 4thShanghai, Chinawww.e-chinacycle.com

EUROPEAN HANDMADEBICYCLE EXHIBITIONMay 8th to 10thSchwaebisch Gmuend,Germanywww.e-h-b-e.eu

January 2009

February 2009


EVENTS

CORE BIKEJanuary 25th to 27thWhittlebury Hall, Northamptonwww.corebike.co.uk

March 2009

April 2009

May 2009

FUTURE PUBLISHING

Can you give us a backgroundto the launch of Bikeradar.com– what was the thinkingbehind bringing all your brandstogether under one umbrella?Our mission is to simply inspiremore people to ride more bikes,over more miles.

Over the last 20 years wehave invested across our cyclingportfolio to deliver compelling,passionate and engaging editorialfor our readers. In our portfolioof five titles, we now have theUK’s best-selling road cyclingmagazine Cycling Plus, the bestselling cycle title in MBUK andthe official licensed guide to theTour de France. We wanted tolaunch a bike website which usedthe passion and experience ofour global network of cyclejournalists and deliver this 24/7.BikeRadar.com was launched inJuly 2007, and provides acomprehensive resource for alltypes and levels of cyclist fromnovice to enthusiast. The Futurecycling portfolio continues togrow and is now the leading

provider of cycling contentacross the world.

Who are the team behindBikeradar.com? The team comprises fourmembers based in Bath, two inthe US, one in Australia and acast of hundreds in publishing,ads, development, marketing andso on. Editor Jeff Jones was partof the original launch team in2007, working as chief onlineeditor at Cyclingnews.com forseven years before coming toFuture to help launchBikeRadar.com. He also has adoctorate in physical andtheoretical chemistry.

What are the topline figuresfor the site, in terms ofvisitors, etc.?Nearly three million monthlyunique visitors across theBikeRadar network, includingnearly a million forBikeRadar.com. We had a hugelysuccessful summer, with thesecond Tour de France podcast,

Back to theFutureWith the BikeRadar network close totopping three-million unique visitorsmonthly, Lisa Foster talks to Future’sgroup publisher Katherine Raderechtabout where the company is taking theportal from here...


We had to to convince our magazine teams

that replacing dedicated websites with one

big site was a good thing. When they saw the quality,

scale and investment we were putting behind

BikeRadar those concerns soon evaporated.

which was the second mostdownloaded sports podcastthrough iTunes throughout theTour, increasing more than 45per cent on last year’sperformance.

What are the most popularareas of the site?The Bikes and Gear section is amassively popular area of thesite with thousands of bike,component, clothing reviews andmore. If riders are upgrading theirbike or riding equipment, theBikes and Gear section is theplace to visit. For guidance onfuture purchases, there isinvaluable advice in the Buyer’sGuides from the section too.

We’ve got a massive routessection powered by Bikely, whichhas over 80,000 road, mountainbike, commuting and leisure ridesplotted by our users from aroundthe globe. With an extensivesearch function, there’s bound tobe a route nearby, and you canupload your own route too.

Using our constantly updatednews carousels, BikeRadar bringsconsumers the latest news first.From hot new product releases,the latest race results to thebiggest bike shows, you’ll find itfirst on the new carousel.

Where does Bikeradar.com sitcompared to Future’s otherportals, such asGamesradar.com,Musicradar.com andTechradar.com?BikeRadar.com has been a keypart of Future’s digital strategyover the last 18-months. Gettingour web proposition right in all ofour key vertical sectors (games,technology, music, sports etc) is apriority for the business andcycling is an important part ofour portfolio. We’re very happywith the progress we’ve made.

What have been the biggestchallenges in terms ofestablishing Bikeradar.comsince its launch?Initially we had to convince ourmagazine teams that takingaway their dedicated websitesand replacing them with one bigsite – BikeRadar – was a goodthing. When they saw thequality, scale and investment wewere putting behind BR thoseconcerns soon evaporated.

Cyclingnews.com is still aseparate site. Why was thatnot incorporated under theBikeradar.com umbrella? Andare there any plans to do thatgoing forward?

Cyclingnews.com was and still isa very strong global brand withstrong user and advertiser loyaltyand therefore we have nointention of doing anything todamage that. We have begun toincrease the integration of thetwo brands – sharing content,linking and cross-marketing thetwo sites and this will continue

and increase over time. However, there are no plans to

merge the two sites; rather theywill run as a complementaryproperties under the ‘BikeRadarnetwork’ banner.

As we know ourselves, due toBikeBiz.com, the cycling worldis very web-savvy, fullyembracing online editorialresources and forums – oftenmore so than some technicalsectors. Having moved into thecycling business, were yousurprised by this? And why doyou think cyclists and thecycling industry haveembraced online so readily?In the UK more people arelooking to buy bikes and kit thanever before. People are becomingmore health conscious and withthe economy as it is, cycling is afantastic way to save money andbe green at the same time.

Manufacturers, importers andretailers alike are looking for newand creative ways to brand theirproducts and make a return oninvestment to both capture newcyclists coming into the market,as well as existing cyclingenthusiasts.

BikeRadar gives advertisersthis amazing opportunity, withalmost a million visitors clickingonto the site every month; itcreates a huge opportunity toattract new potential customersto the brand.

BikeRadar is by far the UK’sbiggest site. It’s also unique, withits news updated every minuteof the day and the only true sitededicated to product testing;with 1,000s of reviews, the sitecan influence consumer spendunlike any other UK site.

Are you concerned that therise in online will have a huge,negative impact on print sales?

Our focus is on reaching andengaging with cyclingenthusiasts, wherever or howeverthey want to. We’re ‘platformagnostic’ about how we reachthem and our experience is thatdifferent platforms – web, print,events – actually support each other.

In the year that BikeRadar.com

has built a following of onemillion unique users per month (and nearly three millionwith cyclingnews.com), Future’ssales of its key cycling magazineshave also grown. At the last full-year ABCs, for example, CyclingPlus posted a ten per centincrease and Mountain Biking UKa three per cent increase. We’ve also launched a series ofroad and cycling ‘Demo Day’events for enthusiasts in the last year.

Can you tell us about any newfeatures that you’re looking toadd to the portal over thecoming months?Fully integrating Bikely into

BikeRadar, and adding morevideo content.

How do you promoteBikeradar.com – particularly tothose consumers who aren’tnecessarily enthusiasts andtherefore aware of yourmagazine/online brands?We use a whole spectrum ofmarketing tools to engagevisitors with the brand, includingeverything from displayadvertising, to promotion atevents, social media and SEM.

With such a wide-rangingtarget audience, the mosteffective approach has been tospecifically aim marketingactivities by targeting theinterests which these user groupswill be visiting BikeRadar tosatisfy – whether that bebeginners seeking purchaseadvice or leisure cyclistssearching for bike routes.

By leveraging our cyclingportfolio we have been able tosuccessfully drive existingcustomers between channels,plus efficient cross-portfoliopromotion has enabled us to attract the more casual cyclist from across the Futurenetwork.

And finally, anything elsecoming up in terms ofextending the Bikeradar.combrand going forward?

We will be extending theBikeRadar brand with BikeRadarLive – a brand-new bike festival.The new show will include roadand mountain bike rides andraces, bike demos, the best gearand act as an industry-wide expowith products from all disciplines.

On the weekend of May 29thto 31st May 2009, DoningtonPark, Derbyshire will play host toa weekend of riding and racing,with a whole series of featuresand treats planned.

Key off-road features runningall weekend will includechallenges and races for all skilllevels. Supported by WhatMountain Bike and MountainBiking UK magazines you canexpect a competitive edge to the events.

Road cyclists will get thechance to compete in variousendurance pursuits on Britain’snew F1 Grand Prix circuit, as wellas plenty of time to challengepersonal bests, and also tracksessions for fun – hosted byCycling Plus and ProCyclingmagazines.

There will also be the chancefor enthusiasts to test out thevery best bikes on the market, inthe biggest ever Bike Demo Daysessions – taking in theDonington circuit and also apurpose-built mountain bikecourse.


FUTURE PUBLISHING

Our focus is on reaching and

engaging with cycling

enthusiasts, wherever or however

they choose - print or web.

“WE’RE doing really well withthe Odyssey Electronical title,but I do believe that DVD saleshave slowed down. I don’t wantto buy a DVD unless it offerssomething a lot more than thedozens of web edits that youcan watch for free on websites,such as TheComeUp, each day.

“I guess the days of low

budget scene DVDs (and tosome extent video magazines)being sold in bike shops aremore or less over. Some titlescan never be replaced by theinternet. If it’s something thatyou’re still going to want towatch in five or ten years timethen I don’t think there is aproblem with asking people topay £15 or £20 for a DVD.”Jamie Cameron, IMGDistribution

“Well in our experience YouTubehas not affected major DVD titlereleases. If anything it hashelped them with promotion.

“Basically smaller name titles,and average road trip DVDsdon’t sell like they used to.Before a company could put outa DVD and sell a thousand or so,and make a decent profit, butnow this is not the case for youraverage DVD.

For example, the Fitlife titlewas on YouTube and Google

video before it came out in theUK, yet to date has been ourbest-selling DVD. We still order itin and sell it now, two yearsafter it originally came out. TheProps Road Fools series DVDsstill sell through. Any solid DVD,from a good brand, with the rightriders will continue to do so.

So yeah, I think it is just theaverage DVDs that havesuffered, but a major release stillsells as good as it used to, plusis viewed by way more people,as it is on YouTube or Vimeo aswell.”Dean Hearne, ProductDesigner, 4Down Distribution

“On first thought I felt sure thatthere may have been a decline.However, looking at our salesfigures a bit more closely, I’mnot sure there has been a slowdown in sales.

Our stock has been reducedover the last three years as wehave better access to oursupplier’s stock. The sales figureson the big titles this year areconsistent with four or five yearsago. I would say the biggestdifference for us has been farmore saturation, in particular thebike magazines selling titlesdirectly to their readers.

As far as the video sharingsites go, most of the bike titleswith decent production wouldstill look much better on a TVscreen than small on a computerscreen.Ben Gaby, Marketing Manager,Paligap

“Although not a major stockistof cycle media, Madison reviewsapproaches from various titles asthey come. Titles such as NewWorld Disorder Never Enough(pictured top centre)– the latestedition in the series – obviouslyhave a huge following built upover the editions, so it’s highlyworth a place within our stock.”Richard Peploe, ProductDirector, Madison

The sales figures on

big titles are

similar to five years ago.

Ben Gaby, Paligap

INDUSTRY OPINIONS

With the increase in websites covering cycle media, Youtube’sarchive of titles both past and present, and the public’s relaxedattitude to file sharing, you may wonder whatever happened tothe cycling DVD. Mark Sutton investigates what, if anything,has decreased the value of stocking visual and written titles...

DVD dead?

GENERAL consensus returnsthe verdict that the cycle DVDhas fought off the advances ofYouTube, Vimeo and specialistwebsites such as TheComeUp.However, how are publisherscoping with the rise of theblog, social networking portalsand specialist websites?

Managing director ofVertebrate Publishing, JonBarton told BikeBiz: "We havehad month-on-month growthfor the last three or four years.All the titles sell very well, ourguide to the North and SouthDowns in particular is provinga winner. I think thecombination of really wellresearched routes and cleardescriptions keep peoplecoming back again and againfor our books. Several of thetitles, for example LakeDistrict, Dark Peak and WhitePeak, are on their secondeditions. We get good fourfigure monthly unit sales.Individual titles like LakeDistrict Mountain Biking sellseveral hundred per month."

So can these seeminglypositive figures put cash in thetills of cycle retailers?

Barton added: "We selldirect to the cycle trade, butalso sell well into the generalbook trade; titles such asMountain Biking Trail Centres is‘core’ stock at Waterstones.Some shops such as JeJamesorder from us at least twice amonth, the books tend to dovery well in ‘local bike shops’ –they are a quick solution tothat age-old question ‘can you

suggest anywhere to ride?’ “I have always thought that

bike stores in particular likeour books because theyencourage hardcore riding,which is a good user andabuser of kit, and this can onlybe good for retail sales of suchproduct. Sometimes it can bea little hard to merchandisebooks in some stores, butinvariably the staff who ridewill use the books and thensupport them well at thepoint of purchase. Having aseries of titles is also popularwith cycle shops, some storesdo better with say the LakeDistrict Guidebook than theydo with their local guidebook."

So, on the back ofconsistent and promisingperformance, internet blogswould seemingly do very littledamage to the volumes ofprinted cycling titlespurchased.

Barton concludes: "Theinternet is a great tool but isvery much ‘open’ and so Ithink a published book has theauthority that a good brandsuch as Vertebrate Publishingcan command. That is not tosay that the internet isn’timportant in the ‘guidebook’business. Our latest titlecomes with its own site,www.ukmountainbiking.co.uk,which is a resource of updatesto the Trail Centres book. Ithink it’s getting easier for usto sell because of the internet.Web users are very quick torecommend to others titlesthat they enjoy."

Big name DVD seems tobe surviving, but whatabout the books?


BRAND SPOTLIGHT

To what standards do TSGpads adhere?Each year TSG has all of itsproduct tested at an authorisedlaboratory to meet variousstandards.

Each TSG product has a smallmanual included, which givesdetails of safety standards andsizing for every product. It alsolists the performances of eachproduct during testing.

TSG wants riders and skatersto be sure that if (or when) theycrash they are wearing the bestprotection available to avoidserious injury.

All bike and skate helmets aretested to meet CE EN1078 andCPSC safety standards. TSGskate knee and elbow pads meetCE EN14120 standards. TSG bikepads comply with CRITT 0501safety protocol in accordance toEN1621.

And how’s the padding tested?First of all, products are tested inthe lab of the production factoryand then sent to an official labin Europe, which specialises inprotective gear. All products aretested for a specific range of useand have to fulfill the requestedstandards regarding impactprotection, quality ofmanufacturing and materials.Machines simulate the impact ofa crash and give informationabout how strong the product is.

How’s business year-on-year?TSG sales have continued togrow year-on-year and areshowing no signs of slowingdown. The brand has some reallybig name riders and skaters onits team roster and calls uponthem for product development,which shows throughout therange. TSG has continuouslyimproved its range year-on-yearand have become marketleaders in helmet technology.

Tell us about the TSGmarketing programme? TSG has a strong marketingprogramme using its team andthis year has added videotutorials to Youtube. They havefilmed various team riders andskateboarders showcasingvarious pads and helmets, whichhave proved an invaluableresource for both dealers andconsumers.

TSG’s advertising focuses onits innovative products, such asthe Superlight Helmet, which isthe world’s lightest potty-stylehelmet weighing in at anincredible 300g.

In future, will cycle paddingaspire to meet motorcyclestandards?The motorcycle sport is facedwith faster speed, tougherground and dangerousneighbours, (cars, etc.) compared

to cycling. So the requirementsare much higher. In order toachieve those requirements,padding has to be much thickerand thus much heavier. Nobodywears protection if the pads barthe rider from performing. So Idon’t think cycling needs tomeet the motorcycle standard.

Tell us about 2009’s product:TSG has brought out some reallygreat new products for 2009,including two new helmetshapes – the Recon and All-Terrain – which both feature anintegral peak. The Recon is alightweight helmet with TSG’shead-hugging fit and featuresremovable, washable pads. TSGadvanced helmet design whenthey released the Evolution, byproducing a helmet that offeredunrivalled protection, but alsolooked great.

New pads in the rangeinclude new white and blackWhistler knee and elbow padsand a brand new ankle comboshinpad, which is superlight andeasily fits under jeans.

The new Staten full-facehelmets have been tested andapproved by Tomac USA Teamriders and, as well as thetraditional black or whitecolourways, come in a very niceZebra pattern.

As well as helmets and padsTSG produces some great bags

(everything from day ridehydration packs to full-on travelbags) and body armour.

Girls are also catered for witha ladies specific range ofEvolution helmets and padsetswhich have been designed to fitwomen's bodies.

Kids have their own range ofEvolution helmets as well and2009 sees the introduction ofJunior Bikeset pads.

What kind of price forecastcan you predict for ‘09? With the current economicsituation it is not easy to foreseewhat direction it is going. Theprice for raw materials varies.But you have other costs thatincrease continuously and thosewill augment product prices ingeneral. The salary of Chineseemployees rises and thefactories have to fulfill more andmore worker-friendly benefits(insurances, retirements etc).This is a good development andvery important. But of course, itwill rather increase the coststhan lower them and this appliesfor all products made in China.

How can dealers get kidspadded up?TSG’s kids helmets are identicalto the adult versions and evenkids pads can be wornunderneath jeans. This meansthat they can emulate their

riding heroes, while still beingprotected. Riders such as SamPilgrim have a big influence onwhich brands kids like to use andhaving Sam as the first UK DirtJumper to get a signaturehelmet is something that thedealers can use to advantage.

Do you think the fact helmetsare VAT exempt helps sales?I think that it allows for lowerRRPs, while still maintainingdecent margins for distributorsand dealers alike.

Ultimately, this ruling hasbenefited consumers as theyaren’t having to pay as much fortheir helmets – which is exactlywhat it was supposed to do.Sales did increase when thisexemption came about, butsome of this may have been todo with the publicitysurrounding the change as muchas the pricing.

Have helmet sales risen withthe number of new commuters? Yes, we believe that the numberof cycle commuters hasincreased due to various factorswhich has undoubtedly helpedsales. We have to remember thatnot every commuter will belooking for a road type helmet,as they will want to use theirbikes at the weekend. Thisconsumer will, more often thannot, buy a p*ss-pot helmet.


There are numerous reasons why sales of protective gear should rise – VATexemption on helmets, a rise in cycle commuters and a growing number of consumersseeking adrenaline. Mark Sutton talks to Matt Andrews at Ison about TSG’s plans for 2009...

Selling protection?

The media loves SamPilgrim and kids are quickto emulate their idols –something TSG believes isa real sales winner


SILVERFISH ANNIVERSARY

SILVERFISH HAS a brandportfolio to die for. Top-endmicro-brands in the main, almostexclusively North American inorigin.

Formed in January 1999 byhusband and wife Darren andSarah Mabbott, and originallybased from their spare bedroom,Silverfish picked up newlyemerging brands fromVancouver’s famous North Shore.

Mabbott won’t be drawn onwhether the company name isderived from pond bugs or froma late ‘80s indie band renownedfor the loudness of its music.

Mabbott wasn’t born and bredin the bike trade. His background– get this – is as a lecturer inmodern history. Not muchchance to wear beanies all daylong in that profession, or look

out of the window and call agroup surfing session…

Bikes came a-calling, though,and Mabbott was introduced tothe cycling industry by workingat a South West distributorbefore moving onto his ownventure. With a tiny warehouseand a single office, Silverfishstarted trading with only onebrand on its books, one whichwas largely unknown in the UKat the time: Race FacePerformance Components.

Based on the doorstep of some

of the world’s best trails, RaceFace was building a mightyreputation for its design,construction and quality,hardcore components designed,built and tested on North Shoretrails now seared into the brainsof MTBers. Images of WadeSimmons and Brett Tippie, theoriginal ‘godfathers of freeriding’,dropping off ladders high up inthe tree-line, demonstrated thatRace Face components couldtake any punishment meted outto them by UK riders. The original

Turbine LP crank and SystemStem became must-have cultcomponents. The first two pairsof Turbine LPs to land in the UKwere shipped to Nirvana Cyclesand Edinburgh Bike Co-op – bothstill Race Face dealers today.

In the early days of Silverfish,Darren Mabbott would man thephones and office while hispartner and wife Sarah worked inthe local university, riding homeat lunch times to help packorders and make sure shipmentsarrived on time with dealers.

The couple latched on to theriding trends coming out of theCanadian market and the strongbrands being manufactured inBritish Columbia.

Soon after Race Face,Silverfish added Arrow Racingand Rock ‘N’ Roll lubes to startbuilding a hardcore brandportfolio. Business picked up anda move to larger premises camesooner than expected. The needfor more space became criticalwhen the first shipment of RaceFace’s technical clothing landedin the UK: most of it ended upbeing stored in every availablebit of free space in the Mabbott’ssmall house.

In 2000, Silverfish found a uniton an industrial estate in theNorth of Plymouth, nestledbetween a dog dipping service

In the early days, Sarah worked in a local university

and would ride home during lunch to pack

orders, making sure packages arrived on time...

Happy Birthday Silverfish!January 2009 marks the ten-year anniversary of the Saltash-based Silverfish. And it’s come a long wayfrom its back-bedroom start, reports Carlton Reid...

and a sandwich shop. At thatpoint Silverfish employed its firststaff, two of whom still work atSilverfish – sales manager RichieRowland and online marketingmanager Simon Keitch.

By 2001 it was obvious thatto expand the business further,Silverfish needed a more wide-ranging portfolio of brands. Withlarger premises, dedicated officesand a warehouse to fill, DarrenMabbott attended the 2001Interbike trade show in Las Vegas.He returned with cult NorthShore frame brand Cove Bikes,previously distributed in the UKby London-based On Your Bike,but when the ‘trailmaster’ RusselBurton left OYB, Cove left withhim and Silverfish was a naturalsuccessor. Silverfish also pickedup the exclusive UK distributionof SDG USA saddles andVancouver-based clothing andarmour specialist Roach.Silverfish now boasted sixhardcore North Shore brands.

“Cove Bikes have become firmfavourites in the UK market withdealers, the media andconsumers alike, winning testsand fans every time they areridden. Their style, function andhandling, backed by some of the hardest testing on the planet,has won many riders over,” said Mabbott.

“Since we took on the brand,many others have tried to copyCove’s designs and ride qualities,but have never come close.”

Since the 2000 move into‘proper’ warehouse and offices,Silverfish has grown and had torelocate twice more.

In 2007, Silverfish moved intoits current 16,000-square footunit in Saltash, Cornwall, a shortpedal from its original offices inPlymouth. The new super-plushoffices and warehousing nowincludes a fully-fitted workshop,

with the capability to offer anext day service for both salesand warranty to the UK IBDnetwork. The increases in storageand office space meant thatstock levels have been increasedfurther, but has also allowed arapid expansion in staff members.

“You are only as good as thestaff that you employ, and thebrands that you distribute,” saidMabbott. “In the last ten yearswe have worked hard to acquireand build on both.”

Silverfish now has 15employees, including new roadreps Peter Clegg and SteveWilson. The brand portfoliocontains eleven key brands.

“Silverfish brands now covereverything bicycle from lubesright through to helmets andcomplete bikes,” said Mabbott.

Sales manager Richie Rowlandsaid: “We do not go out simplyto brand-grab and add them toour portfolio. Each of our brandswe work with because we see

sales potential, love their product,and love working with them.”

In 2008 Silverfish signed withTHE Industries and brought the‘One’ helmet to the UK.

“Dealers jumped at the chanceof a top-rated full-face helmetwhich offers great margins andstrong sell-through,” said Rowland.

Turner Bikes is going to be bigfor Silverfish, said Silverfish’smarketing manager Pete Drew:“Dealers love the heritage ofTurner Bikes. 2009 sees them

with new Dave Weagle’sdesigned DW-Link suspensionwhich set Interbike on-fire thisyear. Turner is very hot right nowand IBD sign-up has been strong.”

Brands like SDG and RockyMountain have further helped tostrengthen the Silverfish brandportfolio and have all seen salesgrowth year-on-year, claimsMabbott. At Core Bike, Silverfishwill be introducing two top-endroad brands, although thecompany would not divulgedetails this far out from the show.

“Rocky Mountain is also likelyto have a huge 2009, after havingexpanded into carbon with itsnew Altitude and re-designedVertex platforms – these arealready being well received by thetrade and are likely to be in shortsupply,” offered Drew.

E.thirteen Components hasgone from an small unknownbrand into the must-have chainguide system, used by the lastfive elite men’s WorldChampions. e.thirteen andSilverfish can be found at everyUK NPS DH race and NationalChampionship offering freetechnical support to users.

Not quite so technical, but akey seller nevertheless, SockGuyof California has proven to be akey brand for Silverfish. Thedistributor handles stock of 100different designs, and has over6,000 pairs in stock at a time.

“We are also enjoying successwith the Intense range of tyres,”said Drew. Previously renownedonly for their DH and FR treadpatterns, Silverfish has launchedXC designs into the UK market.

Silverfish was a foundingmember of the Core Bike tradeshow and will be showing off itsexpanded brand portfolio at thisyear’s event. No doubt there willbe a birthday cake, too. Happybirthday, Silverfish!


SILVERFISH ANNIVERSARY

FROM LEFT: MD Darren Mabbot, Northern sales rep Peter Clegg and Southern sales rep Steve Wilson

PRE-REGISTRATION for IceBike2009 is live and apparentlyMadison’s dealer base has beenincredibly responsive on theback of last year's impressiveshow. That success wasattributed to the business-friendly layout during thedaytime and the sociableatmosphere of the night.

The venue for the event isonce again the company’s75,000 square ft distributioncentre – found at postal codeMK13 9HA for those of you whorely on the sat nav. Open forthree days to all Madison tradecustomers, the space will holdover 500 square metres of bikes,including 2009 models fromRidgeback, Genesis, Commencaland Cervelo, as well as a sneakpeek at 2010 prototypes.

From the supplier’scomponent and accessoriesdivision, there will be over 1,500square metres dedicated toeverything new and excitingfrom a number of brands,including the likes of Shimano,

Giro, Bell, Park Tool, Finish Line,DT Swiss and more.

In 2009, the distributor'saction sports division will alsobe showing new product to thecycle trade. This will includebrands such as Thor, Animal,Factory Effex, No Toil and awhole wealth of other ranges.

As with last year, there will be

exclusive show offers,competitions and guestspeakers, including the return ofthe popular retail expert JayTownley, who will deliver twodaily business discussions.

And the IceBike dedicatedwebsite – www.icebike.co.uk –even hints at the addition of a‘Wheel of Fortune’ stylecompetition.

The dealer dinners will returnfor the two nights, bothincluding the presentation of theMadison Dealer Awards,invitations for which havealready been sent.

For those looking to keep aneye on business, while at theshow, there will again be freewireless internet access.

Opening times are as follows:Tuesday 24th FebruaryExpo Area: Open house to allMadison customers, 9am - 8pmWednesday 27th FebruaryExpo Area: Open house to allMadison customers, 9am - 5pmThursday 28th FebruaryExpo Area: Open house to allMadison customers,10am - 5pm


ICE BIKE PREVIEW

Madison’s Milton Keynes distribution centre will once again play host to IceBike between February 24thand 26th. Mark Sutton offers an early preview of the show’s highlights…

Madison’s customers have

already responded positively to

the news of iceBike’s return in

February 2009.

IceBike ‘09 set for warm reception

MONEY FOR NOTHING?By pre-registering for IceBike,upon check-in at the eventtrade customers will be gifted£50 worth of Marks &Spencers vouchers courtesyof Madison as a thanks forattending. A maximum of twovouchers will be issued pertrade account and guestsmust be pre-registered toattend via the form found onthe IceBike website.

AND YOUR LIFTS FOR FREE?A minibus collection servicewill be available to and fromLuton Airport, Milton Keynes

railway station, Milton Keynesbus station, the hotels usedfor show quests and MiltonKeynes coach station. Shouldyou need collection and to bereturned using this service,send an email [email protected] andsend the followinginformation:* The location you wish to becollected from* Arrival Time/Departure Time* Shop Name* Madison Account Number* Number of people & names* A mobile phone contactnumber

CORE BIKE

ISON HAS TWO rooms for Core Bike2009, and will be showing off itspremium brands.

Personnel from around the worldwill be on hand from Salsa Cycles(Steve Johnson), Surly Bikes (JohnFleck), Rohloff (Stuart Stabik),Schwalbe (Chris Hearn), Weldtite,Fibrax and KHE Bikes (John Becker) togive dealers all the latest informationon the 2009 product ranges.

As well as the above brands, Isonwill also be showing the brand new2009 products from Halo Wheels,Identiti Bikes, Gusset parts, Light BlueCycles, ODI grips, Dia Compe brakes,Genetic Road parts, Passport, TSGProtection, Trickstuff and Powergrips. Matt Andrews, marketing manager atIson said: “We may also be announcinga ‘secret project’ that we have been

working on for the past year – sufficeto say it will be quite a revelationwhen it’s finally revealed. We havebeen collaborating with a companywho are recognised as a market leaderin their sector to produce someamazing new products. We wouldreveal more – but we don’t oftentravel by train, so we can’t even leavethe details on a memory stick.”

Of the current product due to beseen at Core, Andrews added: “We arevery excited about the 2009 rangesthat we will have on show, whichinclude some real highlights. Theyinclude Salsa Cycles complete bikes,which created a lot of interest at therecent Cycle Show, Surly completes,MRP’s new Mini G2’s and XCG chaindevices, in addition to the ODI Gripsnew ‘eco-friendly’ packaging. That’s

before we mention our best-sellingHalo Wheels brand, which itself boastsnew SAS colourways and a separatetrack wheelset.”

Stu Stabik will be running Rohlofftechnical seminars for dealers in Ison’stool and service room, and Weldtitewill be demonstrating its superb newrange of Cyclo Pro workshop tools.Plus, Fibrax will be showing itscomprehensive brake pad range,including ‘workshop’ high-margin bulk-products.

Dealers will be able to spend plentyof time with each of the 15companies, figuring out the true nitty-gritty of what’s going to be selling for2009. Key Ison personnel will be onhand to answer all questions and therewill be the usual promotional materialfor dealers to take away.

Ison


Trade to the CoreAs the final countdown gets underway for Core Bike – one of the largest trade shows in the UK bikeindustry calendar – Mark Sutton takes a look at what some of the key companies on the 150-strongexhibitor list will be showing off in Whittlebury Hall next January...

Come and See us at the 2009 Core Bike Show. Jan 25th, 26th and 27th

www.jimwalker.co.uk

EVERY YEAR, at the onset of designing a new line,Fox sets out one simple goal: to create theultimate collection of riding gear which seriousmountain bike enthusiasts will embrace.

The 2009 range features many innovative newideas, twists on some old favourites, and top-performing legacy products. The highlights includethe all-new High Voltage Short. This reincarnationof the High-Frequency plays off the strengths ofits predecessors with a Microfiber polyester outershell, but features a detachable inner liner. Add inthe functional thigh vent zips and a stylish choppinstripe pattern, and the High Voltage is sure toset a new standard for performance, style, andalso value.

Next is the Campus Short. A huge hit for ridersin 2008, this product gets some great technicalupgrades for 2009. Fox also plans to introduce astretch yarn dye material to the clothing in orderto improve riding performance.

Additionally, the Flux Helmet is set to build onits overwhelming success with theaddition of a third size.With the introductionof a smaller size,youth and adult ridersalike will enjoy thegreat fit andperformance of Fox’sbest selling helmet,available in a rangeof colours too.

FOX

BUFF MULTI-FUNCTIONAL headwear is probably themost comprehensive and versatile range of headwearavailable. Offering a wide range of styles acrosshundreds of designs, Buff headwear is frequently one ofthe highest turnover products the company’scustomers stock. Including windproof and sun-protection products, the patented knitting processmeans that Buff won’t fade or lose its elasticity, ismachine washable and fast-drying.

Buff’s high-quality fabrics and yarns offer excellentperformance with durability. With innovative andeffective point of sale systems to support dealers instore, Buff is the must-have accessory to stock.

Of the other products on show, Hides is aninteresting invention from the US. If you’ve ever hadyour expensive spectacles or sunglasses fall off yourface at an inappropriate moment then Hides are foryou. Using its patented double-roll technology, thesecunning eyewear retainers can be used as case, cleanerand retainer, all in one. The product is designed to beincredibly useful, highly functional and a great counter-top impulse purchase.

And finally, the latest addition to the Buffera stableis SueMe, a new and gradually growing line ofenvironmentally responsible and sensitively sourcedsportswear, which uses fibres and fabrics that feel good,look great and are as kind as they can possibly be toMother Earth.

Buffera

PALIGAP will be launching the 2009 range of QuintanaRoo Triathlon bikes and wetsuits, including the Cd0.1top flight Tri Machine. The latest range of Fast ForwardCarbon wheels will also be on show in the Paligaproom, with the 2009 CycleOps PowerTap ANT+ hubsystems. The Litespeed and Merlin Titanium bikerange, launched at this year’s show, will round offthe road side of things and suppliers of each brandwill be on hand to answer tech questions.

The show will also be the launching platform forthe 2009 Kona and Sombrio clothing ranges.Paligap will be taking opening orders and a fullsample of each garment will be on show. KonaBicycles will be demonstrated and a sample of theRitchey range, along with new Torq Energy productsincluding Torq Singles. Canterbury base layers andclothing has some exciting new items that will beunveiled for the first time, too.

Paligap

CORE BIKE


IT’S A SPECIAL Core Bike show for Hope next yearas it’s the company’s 20th anniversary. The UK-based manufacturer started making hubs and brakesback in 1989 and is still doing it today – so look outfor some special products to celebrate 20 years ofBritish manufacturing.

Dealers are invited to see the new range of Techbrakes and the expanded ‘Hoops’ wheelset range.Other new products include the DH stem and theFox 40 crown/stem combo, more hubs and even thelong-awaited new seatpost. Hope will also have theall new website online, including the B2B site. Stafffrom the factory will be available to answer yourtechnical queries and to talk retailers through therange. Hope will be found in the Sazuka room.

Hope Technology

CORE BIKE


Chicken Cycle-kit

SI WATTS started in the bike tradeaged 16 in 1985 and has beeninvolved in one way or another sincethat time.

Having worked in the retailenvironment and later as a rep for amajor player at the time, whatstarted as a hobby building websitesfor a few select customers hasrapidly turned into a thrivingbusiness catering almost solely forthe internet requirements of bike-

related companies.Company owner Watts, said: “The

Siwis service offers bespoke webwork, building dedicated systems to

suit the needs of retailers. Come andhave a chat in room S8, even if youmerely want to put a face to thename. Or visit www.siwis.co.uk.”

Siwis

THE 2009 Extra line-up includesimportant developments from manyleading brands.

Innovations from Fizik include thenew Antares road saddle and theTundra mountain bike saddle. Thereare many changes to colour and railcombinations on the existing range,including a carbon railed Gobi.

There are also new saddles andbags from Brooks and the finestcomfort saddles from Selle Royalunder the Ergogel, Lookin andRespiro brands.

Topeak has been as busy as everwith updates to the pump, tool, bag,light and computer ranges. AndEaston will be showing variousupdates to the wheel range, thelatest versions of the carbon cranksand changes to the componentrange. There are new headsets fromCane Creek and a load of newcomponents from the trend-settingguys at Deity.

Ergon has additions to the griprange as well as a new commuter-specific backpack and the full range

of Montane will be on show with are-designed H2O.

Hutchinson has a new fast-rollingCobra tyre and will be looking topromote tubeless road tyres, whichafter steady growth in 2008 areready for major expansion in 2009,as shown in the US market.

Extra will be launching the newIntense Tracer and the BMC range,which includes mountain bikes.

Finally, Extra will announce thatMulebar will be joining its line-upfrom January.

Extra

FOR CORE Bike2009 Windwavecan be found inthe Lounge, with

displays fromColnago, FSA,

Corsair, Marzocchi,Mace, Ice Toolz and

A2Z. Each brand isfocused on

simple, easilyachievablestocking inpackages thatwill keepretailers onthe highestmargin forthe modelyear.

Dealerterritories are

still available forColnago and

Corsair bikes. As wellas media tests,

sponsorship and

advertising, Windwave’s mainobjective for 2009 is to targetthe end-user directly with itsdemo bike programme. It will beoffering in-store demo machinessupported with nationaladvertising. Secondly, thedistributor is involved in variousdemo days with its own fleetthroughout the year. Some ofthese demo events have beenrun already.

Two guests from the high-endItalian road bike manufacturerColnago have been confirmedtoo. Alessandro Colnago,grandson of Ernesto Colnago andDiego Colosio, the internationalsales manager, will both beavailable on the Sunday 25thand Monday 26th. In addition,Windwave will also have theEuropean sales manager fromNokon cables, Mr Gianni Silverii,who will be able to offertechnical advice for the durationof the show.

Windwave

A LOT has happened at Chicken Cycle-kit since thefire that nearly wiped the distributor off the maplate last year. Although some may be a little curiousto see if things have changed at all.

Since then, the distributor has taken on ayounger team conversant with all aspects of somevery technical product. Mike Catlin and GaryAnderson have been doing show appearances for along time now and have earned a lot of respect. AndChicken Cycle-kit’s young sales office team havelearnt a lot from them. They are talking to dealersall the time, who will have a chance to put a face toa name come January. There are many dealers whowill be pleased the wholesaler has a broader mix ofproduct than a year ago. This year dealers can taketheir time and weigh up the benefits of stockingdifferent products.

Some brands have been substituted this year.Mavic has been replaced by Rigida rims and RigidaRyde wheels. This is the first big dealer-only showingin the UK. It is hoped the Adidas clothing range willbe further strengthened in 2009 and another brandwill be introduced in the spring. Vredestein has beenreplaced by Vittoria, albeit OE supplies will still beavailable. LAS helmets are a new exclusive brandand Chicken Cycle-kit can pick up with formerdealers familiar with this understated brand ofconsiderable potential with great dealer margins.Another first is the Squire lock range.

Company director, Cedric Chicken, said: “It’s agood time to introduce our suppliers to the trade.They appreciate this and we think dealers do too.There is an exchange of information, particularlyduring a seminar. Our continental visitors comefrom Italy (Campagnolo, Cinelli, Las Helmets),Belgium (Sapim spokes), Germany (SKS) andHolland (Rigida and KMC). There’s enough space toexhibit full product ranges so that the depth of ourstockholdings can really be appreciated. It’s a timeto renew personal acquaintances with ourcustomers. Core combines a relaxed, business-likeatmosphere in which we can further developrelationships to the benefit of suppliers andcustomers alike.

“A wider choice of brands will appeal to dealerswho had perhaps not thought it worthwhile to havean account with us. Everything we do today isanother reason why it is worth having an accountwith us, whether it be for our B2B services, ourwebsite listings, our discount structures or simplythe quality of our merchandise,” added Chicken.“We are working more closely with Campagnolo.They are a very strong brand these days and wehave expanded our spare parts service considerablyand plan to again double our Display Dealer outlets.We now distribute the Troy Lee saddle range invastly improved Selle Italia 100 per cent bio-degradeable packaging.”

Ultragel BarTape

FR 270 Post - 27.2mmx350m,m / 31.6mm x350mm

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OFFER VALID UNTIL END OF DECEMBER OFFER VALID UNTIL END OF DECEMBER

White CHRISTMAS10%OFF trade 2009 prices

GRAB A BARGAIN FOR CHRISTMAS TODAY

Please contact [email protected] or call 02392 505320 and reference “White Christmas”See you at the Core Bike Show 25th - 27th January (www.corebike.co.uk)

£44.95 SSP

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K-wing - 40,42,44mm c.c £214.95 SSP

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WINDWAVE WHITE XMAS RETAIL.ai 19/11/2008 14:12:07

CORE BIKE


UPGRADE BIKES will be situated in theHungararing room (in between Paligapand Ison). On display will be the cream ofthe crop from DMR, Kinesis UK, Lezyne,Reynolds, Oval, Kriega, Motor Tabs, TRP,Geax, Tektro, Effetto Mariposa, Dirtyhabitand Atomlab, which is making a welcomereturn to the UK after a couple of yearsaway from the market.

Visiting Upgrade at Core Bike is theideal opportunity to get your paws on thelatest products, meet representatives fromsome of the world's leading bikecomponent companies and takeadvantage of some cracking premier

stockist and stock-in deals from DMR,Kinesis UK, Lezyne, Reynolds and OvalConcepts.

In attendance in the Upgrade roomwill be the usual suspects from UpgradeBikes (Matt, Damian, Tom, Paddy, Rich,Ian) and head honchos from Lezyne(Micki Kozuschek or Dillon Clapp), OvalConcepts (Morgan Nicol), Atomlab (MikeFlaherty), Motor Tabs (Greg Sellers) andReynolds Cycling (Ty Daugherty). Theseguys will be travelling the globe in orderto meet UK IBDs. This, of course, is a greatopportunity to find out more about thesebrands from the people in the know.

Upgrade

CITRUS-LIME PROVIDES Epos, E-commerce, stock control and workshopmanagement solutions for CycleRetailers.

Marketing manager GrahamHoughton said: “We understand theneeds of cycle retailers, and offersolutions tailor-made to meet specificrequirements. The company’sEcommerce, Epos and stock controlsolutions are helping cycle retailers run

their businesses more efficiently andwith increased profitability. Come andsee us at Core Bike and find out what wecan do for you.”

The Citrus-Lime Epos and StockControl system is based on MicrosoftRMS and has all the essential featuresyou need to runa bike business. Itcan handleassemblies so

you can build custom bike quotes foryour customers, matrix items – essentialfor dealing with clothing size and colourvariations and has the full range ofpricing and promotion features, such asvouchers and club discount schemes.

The ‘workshop module’ integrateswith RMS andincludes calendarfunctionality withemail and SMS

integration so customers are keptinformed of progress fixing and servicingtheir bikes. The company also offersintegrated ecommerce websites,drastically reducing the administrativeoverheads involved in running a ‘clicksand mortar’ business with shared stockfiles. This means no ordering of out-of-stock items, and orders downloaded canbe directed back into the main Epossystem.

Citrus Lime

2PURE IS back again with fantastic newproducts and some old favourites.

New to 2Pure for 2009 is Nemaclothing.Nema is designed specificallyfor trail and all mountain riding, so noneed to have heavy downhill clothing togo trail riding; get the right product forthe job.

Come and see the Jimi brand too,which is eco-friendly plastic storage,again new to the UK.

Niterider will have the all new

Slickrock lights with its next generationHID technology, that claims to be 45 percent brighter than current HIDs. Also, seethe new Cherry Bomb rear LED light thatcan apparently be seen from over onemile away.

Crank Brothers will show its newIodine all-mountain wheels, as well as itsworld-wide acclaimed Joplin seat posts,and not forgetting the market-leadingpedal range.

2pure will also boast the founder of

SQ labs on the stand;Tobias will beexplaining his simpleand easy SQ Lab’sfitting systems forsaddles, grips andinsoles.

Clif will preview itsall-new Luna bar,specifically designed forwomen, as well as theexisting popular Shot Bloks.

2Pure

CORE BIKE


SILVERFISH WILL once again be bringingits complete and extensive range ofbrands to the show. 2009 marks thetenth year of trading for Silverfish UK,and the celebrations will kick off at theCore Bike show. To mark this occasion,Silverfish will be joined on stand by anumber of representatives from its brandsto provide all stores and dealers who visitwith the chance to get the most up-to-date information available, directly fromthe people behind the brands themselves.

Representatives will be on hand fromRaceFace, Rocky Mountain Bikes, THE, ITSTyres, SDG, e.thirteen and Turner Bikes,providing retailers with all of theinformation about their brands beingdisplayed on the stand.

Silverfish UK will also have a couple ofvery special guests appearing on its standover the duration of the show, who willbe available to meet and greet all visitorsand answer all of your questions – aswell as hand out birthday cake.

The show will also be the first officialUK launch of the 2009 DW-Linkequipped Tuner Bikes range. On display

will be the full range of frames from DaveTurner and Dave Weagles firstcollaboration, which stole the show atthe 2008 Interbike Trade Show in Vegas.Silverfish staff will be on hand to talkstores through the range of frames anddealership options.

CoreBike is also your chance to viewthe new platforms and bikes from RockyMountain Bikes. The new 5.5” travel

Altitude is available ineither a carbon oraluminium frame and isdesigned for all marathon andAM needs. Meanwhile the VertexRSL has already taken World Cup glory in2008 and, with its Carbon frame andlightweight package, it is going to beevery racers model of choice. These bikeswill be on display alongside the full 2009

range of products from theCanadian brand.

On display will also be the completerange of RaceFace performancecomponents including the new Nextcarbon ¾-inch riser bars and Deus AlloyXC ¾-inch bars. RaceFace offers acomplete component range to suit everyprice point and discipline, and is a muststock brand for any serious cycle store.

RaceFace is not limited to just hardgoods though, as 2009 will see acompletely re-worked line-up ofprotection and armour landing, including anew line-up of ladies and youth products,as well as an expanded men’s range.

With new brands being launched inthe UK, new product offerings and acomplete range of market-leadingcomponents, bikes, soft goods andprotection on offer, the Silverfish stand isa must view room at this year’s Core Bikeshow.

Silverfish

JIM WALKER and company is attendingthe Core Bike show for the first time thisyear. The distributor plans to display itsfull portfolio of top-end products,including the 2009 DeRosa range, alongwith King 3 and the new Neo Pro. Thecompany willalso showcasethe World Cupwinning Sundaybike from IronHorse, alongsideupdated greatssuch as the Six-Point and MKIII,and the brand newBootleg cross-country bikes.

There will be soft goods too. The newNorthwave Shoes and apparel ranges aresure to receive great interest, along withCampagnolo’s new Sportswear. There

will also be a chance to view the newestaddition to the portfolio – Campagnolocomponents – with the new 11-speedgroupsets. These will be accompanied byItalian counterparts Fulcrum Wheels,which too has some exciting new

additions, includingthe Ceramic XLRcarbon wheels andon the MTB side,the eagerly awaitedRed Fire wheels.

Jim Walker andCo will also beutilising the show

to seek prospectivenew accounts, and will be offering theopportunity to take orders from newand existing dealers. Various stocking inpackages will be available with fantasticdealer margins as incentives.

Jim Walker

MERIDA WAS founded in Taiwan in 1972and has grown to be one of the biggest,most respected OEM manufacturers inthe world, with a production volume ofover two-million bikes per year.

The Merida brand was launched in1986 and is now present in 70 countriesacross the world, with sales of over400,000 bikes per year.

Within its own range, innovativeproduct development has now becomethe absolute number one priority forMerida’s team.

The Merida product developmentteam has some of the most state-of-the-art testing equipment in the worldat its disposal, and the Multivan MeridaBiking Team as a thorough test squad togo with it.

This clearly shows in the new Ninety-Six model range, which represents thelatest carbon fibre technology available,producing the stiffest and lightest full-suspension bike in the world – the 9kgNinety Six Team D.

Also expected from across the rangeare rides such as the 12-inch wheel toTriathlon, BMX to All-Mountain models.

Merida Taiwan has set its sights onbecoming a top-three brand worldwidealong with Specialized and Giant, inmany countries around the world thattarget has been achieved. In the UK, thebrand still has some ground to gain.

If you need a strong premium brand,to compete with one of the ‘big’agencies, then visit the Merida stand atCoreBike.

Merida

“We see it as a greatshow that is becomingincreasingly importantfor both distributorsand dealers alike.”

IT’S A TOUGH ONE. Microbrandwants to stay competitive in aneBay world, but can’t rely on justIBDs any more. There aren’tenough that can economicallydo justice to Mountain Cycle – ahigh-end, niche brand withexpensive, iconic product, whichis forever under pressure to selldirect to a loyal, hyper-knowledgeable customer base.

It was up to Krien Dawson tochange this state of affairs. He’sbeen the Grenoble-based CEO ofMountain Cycle for two years,and is a 12-year veteran of thebike trade – having previouslyworked for Vario, Madison anddealers Mud Dock and BeelineBikes of Oxford.

He said: “We believe hugely inindependent bicycle dealers. Ouraim is not to damage thisrelationship, but to realisticallylook at how we can work in thebest interests of our brand, theIBD and the consumer.”

After problems withproduction last year, he felt hecould reshape the way MountainCycle did business, and that thiscould be a way forward for othermicrobrands, too.

“I didn’t anticipate that wewould be hit so badly by anumber of problems during 2007at our Taiwanese production

facilities. The impact of this wasthat stock we were expecting toarrive in early summer 2007 onlystarted to come in to ourwarehouse in the middle of the2008 season.

“Obviously this has had somepretty major implications to ouroriginal budget. Thankfully we’resupported by one of the most

stable of Taiwanese companies –Ideation Industrial. As we startedto pick up the pieces, and set inplace strategies for bringing backthis brand, it gave us manyopportunities to talk to some ofthe most switched-on bikeretailers in the world. Webenefited from their greatinsights into the market and itschallenges.

“I knew that Mountain Cyclewould have to be as adventurousin its business policies as it is inits design philosophy, which we

use to engineer our range ofmonocoque bikes.”

Dawson started by ending allexisting distribution agreementsand set up Mountain Cycle’sEuropean distribution facility, ina similar way to how the USdivision operates. After this hadbeen completed, he had totackle the issue of pricing.

“One of the unwritten rules ofthe bicycle business has alwaysbeen ‘brands shall not sell direct’.I had to question why customersare now making their primarybuying decisions on the web, andwhile we know that price is noteverything, it’s undoubtedly oneof their primary deciding factors.Consumers now have a muchlower expectation of realisticretail prices.

“This industry has always usedthe following pricing calculation:Cost + brand margin + transport

+ duty + distributor margin +IBD margin + VAT = sales price.The problem was that I reallywasn’t happy with the MSRPprice that this calculation addedup to.

“We knew that we wouldnever be willing to compromiseour production quality, becauseof the legacy that Robert

Reissinger left us.“In the end we came up with

a brand new policy. We called it'Kick A$$ Value’, which meansthat the Mountain Cycle brandwill now retail directly to theconsumer, as well as beingdistributed through a selectnumber of IBDs.”

Inspiration for this potentiallyfatal change of strategy camefrom Dawson’s favouritecomputer brand: “AppleComputers sell through thefirm’s own website, via the Apple

Stores, via authorised retailers,and even in Wal-Mart.

“When it sells directly to theconsumer, Apple is pocketing asubstantial margin. Inverselywhen an iPod gets put into abasket of groceries, we knowthat Apple has had to offeralmost all its margin to Wal-Mart. In either scenario Applehas still made a sale, and theconsumer has bought from themost convenient retail channel.”

He agrees it’s a risky stategy:“It’s sure to upset a few dealersbut it’s the fairest way for ourbrand to operate. We will not becompeting with our dealers, ifanything we are expecting to bedriving sales to them. Nor are wemerely selling on price. But wedo know that, at the very end ofthe buying process, the customeralways thinks about the pricethey are investing. We remain aniche brand dedicated to ourideals, but we can now offerpricing that will make usincredibly competitive with the‘big boys’ of the cycle industry.

“The current world economiccrisis will play in our favour. Wedon’t expect customers to stopbuying new bikes, but we doanticipate that they will becomeeven more price conscious, evenat the top-end.”

A contradiction in terms? Not according Mountain Cycle. CEO Krien Dawson tells Carlton Reid he wantsto ape consumer electronics giant Apple, going direct yet also sticking with IBDs...

IBD brand goes consumer direct

MOUNTAIN CYCLE INTERVIEW


One of the unwritten rules of the bicycle businesshas always been ‘brands shall not sell direct’. I had to

question why customers are now making their primarybuying decisions on the web. While we know price isnot everything, it’s undoubtedly a factor.

MOORE LARGE � ADAMGARNER has received apromotion following five years’service and will now take on theposition of Haro field salesmanager. Garner has previouslyworked within the Moore Largesales team, the marketingdepartment and most recently asa cycle area sales manager forthe Midlands region.

Garner’s new role will focus onthe further development of theHaro MTB and BMX brand on anational basis. He can becontacted on 07971 991630 orby emailing him [email protected].

STACEY TIDMAS has returnedto the distributor following thebirth of her son Samuel and isnow back in office. Tidmas’

position is area sales manager forparts and accessories throughoutthe Midlands regions. She hasbeen with Moore Large for oversix years and has previouslyworked within the internal salesoffice prior to her promotion forher current role. Tidmas can becontacted on 07971 991639 oryou can email her [email protected].

JAMES ALLEN has also beenon board with Moore Large forover six years and, as a result,has been promoted to area salesmanager for the cycle divisionfollowing a successful periodcovering Stacey Tidmas’maternity leave. Allen can becontacted on 07971 991637 [email protected].

ADAM BIGGS, meanwhile, is a

new recruitment, taking on a rolewithin Moore Large’s internalsales team. Before joining MooreLarge, Biggs was a full-time road-racing cyclist for three years.

Biggs returned to Britain inJune, following a spate ofinternational competitions inFrance, Italy, Spain and even theCarribbean. Since then, Biggs hasbeen working in a cycle shop todevelop his knowledge of theindustry. Biggs can be contactedon 01332 274 280 or byemailing him [email protected].

POWACYCLE � STEVE SHAWhas joined PowaCycle as theregional account manager forMidlands and the North ofEngland, representing both

PowaCycle and the newly-launched Infineum brand.

Shaw has apparently workedwithin the cycle industry hiswhole life, having previously heldpositions at Giant, SRAM Europeand Moore Large and also havingspent time with distributorsHykeham Wholesale and Massi.

PowaCycle is a leading UKsupplier of Electric Bikes. Shawcan be contacted by emailinghim [email protected]

SUGOI � Sugoi PerformanceApparel, a division of DorelIndustries, has announced thatJAMES BOTTOMS has joined thecompany, taking up the positionof chief operating officer.

Sugoi president, Stan Mavis

There are two promotions, a new recruit and a returning exec at the distributor � Powacycle hires a newregional account manager � Tibbets quits Cycle Show team � Sugoi appoints new chief operating officer

Flurry of moves for Moore Large sales team


PEOPLE AND RECRUITMENT

Send your recruitment news [email protected]

People & Recruitment is Sponsored by Halfords

Adam Garner

said of the appointment: “This isa tremendous example of DorelIndustries providing us with theresources and vision to pushSugoi forward as an incrediblyvibrant and growing brand. Jamesis absolutely at the top of hisprofession, and his addition willhave enormous benefits to ouroperations and expansion.”

Bottoms arrives at Sugoi fromMountain Hardwear, where asdirector of operations, he servedon the five-strong executiveteam, overseeing all aspects ofthe company’s customer serviceand distribution, production,supply chain and logistics,planning and purchasing.

UPPER STREET EVENTS �JAMES TIBBETTS has left Upper

Street Events, the organisorbehind the hugely successfulCycle exhibition. Tibbetts said ofhis departure: “I’m moving on towork on some new projects, andto return to University!” UpperStreet Events has yet toannounce a replacement forTibbets on the Cycle ‘09 team.

FUTURE � SIMON WITHERSSimon Withers has rejoinedCycling Plus magazine. During hisfirst spell he spent six and a halfyears as the magazine’sproduction editor. In his absence,Withers continued to write forthe mag on a freelance basis.

Now, following four yearsworking on a non-cycling title,Withers has returned to themagazine as technical editor.

PEOPLE AND RECRUITMENT


James BottomsSimon Withers

RETAIL ONLY

IN THIS MONTH’S ISSUECUSTOMER SERVICE 44Carlton Reid talks to Tarty Bikes about leading a niche market.

PARTS AND ACCESSORIES 49This month we look at the wheel. That’s tyres, tubes, hubs,rims and the pumps used to put them on a roll.

OFF THE RECORD 61As of this month, BikeBiz will carry a page dedicated to theshenanigans of you guys and gals on the frontline.

RETAILCOMMENT

The trade’s guide to the best customer service, up-and-coming IBDs and the hottest products

WE’RE ON the home stretch of 2008 now. If you’re theoptimistic type (hang on... bike trade) then there’s plentyof potential to cash in this Christmas. In the spirit of thefestive season, now’s the time to greet customers with asmile, because this year there are no major games consolelaunches to compete with, nor has there been a time whencycling cured so many of society’s ills, apparently.

All year round the media has been plastering cyclingeverywhere. And, it seems cycling as a sport is finallyconsidered mainstream, perhaps down to the draw of theOlympics, perhaps down to individual successes (orreturns) through the year.

What’s more, us journos seem to have put the fear intonon-cyclists by effectively branding them chubby, world-destroyers, all doomed to bankruptcy. Personally, I like tobelieve people are turning to cycling for the sheer joy thatit brings to the soul, but I’m an optimist.

Optimistic or not, shouldn’t we be getting kids intocycling on the basis that it’s fun, as opposed to tellingthem they must cycle to be acceptable in this world?

As a store owner, what could you do to make sure thatthe sales you make this Christmas draw customers andtheir kids back in store a second time? Well... you could sellcrap bikes. But then they’d be returning for the wrongreasons, no doubt traumatised by their first experiences ofpedal power.

The future has to deliver quality bikes for kids. Thepotential is huge, yet the children’s sector appears to havebeen surrendered to the multiples. But why? ThisChristmas, try to convince parents to invest as much intheir kids’ bikes as they do their own. If successful, thatsecond visit will either be an opportunity to upsellaccessories on the back of a standard service, or it may bea year down the line when the child has seeminglydoubled in size and needs to make another investment.

There are some great introductory bikes, trikes andscooter-style bikes on the market this year. Manufacturershave done their research. Toddlers’ and kids’ bikes arecoming in a variety of exciting finishes, emulating moreadult bicycles. What better way to sell to a customer thanto point out what a great family ride the local trail is. Or,you could point out they’re getting fat. It’s your choice...

Mark Sutton

What better way to sellthan to suggest some

local family-friendly rides. Or,you could call them fat.It’s your choice...

IN THE first BikeBiz awards,Chain Reaction of Belfast walkedoff with the best online retailer,but one of the runners-up was asmaller, newer, less mainstreamoperator, TartyBikes.co.uk.

TartyBikes is a four-man outfitoperating out of premises inBamber Bridge, near Preston, lessthan a mile from junction 29 ofthe M6. It retails complete trialsbikes, bike frames, bike wheels,forks, brakes and handlebars,from brands such as Onza andMonty bike parts. It is also theofficial importer of Koxx, Try-All,Echo, ZOO, and Yaabaa trialsbike brands.

"We pride ourselves onunrivalled product knowledgeand outstanding customerservice," says business co-founder Adam Read.

He started the business inNovember 2004 with his friendDavid Cleaver. Both holdBachelors Degrees in SportsEngineering from LoughboroughUniversity. Cleaver left thebusiness in October 2007.

Read is a committed trailriders, as are the other threemembers of the current team atTartyBikes.

"Between us we have 30years’ experience with trials,"reveals Read, who admits to

"knowing crazy amounts ofuseful stuff about trials bikes."

"I currently ride a customisedKoxx Hoesel 20 inch speccedwith a pair of Hope Mono trialbrakes and full of titaniumgoodies. But despite all thispimpness, my riding hasn'timproved for years, but I still likenothing more than heading offto some rocks for a few hoursafter work."

The other members ofTartyBikes are:Alastair Clarkson (Ali C):Clarkson has previously worked

for Orange MTBs and BlazingSaddles bike shop, but his mainlove has always been trials. He iscurrently ranked in the top 20trials riders by the UCI. AtTartyBikes he deals withcustomer orders, phones andworkshop tasks. He rides anOzonys XS26 bike with customspec. His bike is a bit "different,"he says, "full of holes andmodifications, including tyreswith knobbles chopped off andalternate alloy-steel front discrotor bolts."

Jonathan Smith: Smith joined

TartyBikes in May and is anothercapture from LoughboroughUniversity (he has a Ph.D inSports Technology). He’s not anatural born trials rider,preferring BMX, 4X, XC and DH.He has ridden for Identiti, Simtraand Muddy Fox. He’s theTartyBikes PR man. When he ridestrials, he rides a Meta 360cc.

Gavin Evans: Evans joinedTartyBikes in August. He hasraced BMX from the age of four,then took up flatland BMX at 12,rode BMX, dirt, street and parkuntil he was 17, then took up

downhill and XC. Since 1998 hehas been hooked on trials. Heworks in the warehouse, packingorders, and is also handy in theworkshop. He rides an OzonysCannibal specced with parts fromHope, Onza, Try-All and Maxxis.

The TartyBikes team runs abusiness but, as bike nuts, theyalso identify strongly with theircustomers: "As riders ourselves,we understand how it feels to bewithout a bike. We always aim toput ourselves in our customer'sshoes – we feel this is the onlyway to offer a level of service allparties will be 100 per centsatisfied with," explains Read.

"We make our refund andreturns policy as fair as possible –nobody likes buying somethingto find it won't fit, or isn'tsuitable, and you can't send itback. We are also against over-the-top postage prices. It'ssuprisingly cheap to send itemsusing Royal Mail, and we passthese prices directly on to ourcustomers. All postage prices arecalculated by weight, not howdifficult or time-consuming it isto wrap an order."

Because it is not just part ofthe trials scene, but embedded init, wallowing in it, Read claimsTartyBikes is "the world's leadingonline trials bike shop."

About TartyBikesOwner: Adam ReadLocation: Preston, LancsEsablished: 2004Telephone: 01772 32 33 33Web: www.tartybikes.co.uk Email: [email protected]

Customer Service sponsored by


CUSTOMER SERVICE

Trials and tribulationsWith a stand-out name and a growing reputation, TartyBikes of Lancashire is an online retailerservicing a niche market. Niche, but not small. Trials bikes will sell, recession or no recession...

Alastair Clarkson Jonathan Smith Gavin Evans


M Steel Cycles had beentrading from a corner site onSalters Road, Gosforth, since1981. In October, a newlocation for the business wasofficially opened by Englandand Newcastle footballinglegend Alan Shearer.

The new shop is right nextdoor to the old one, but threetimes the size. It’s also one ofonly four shops in the UK toincorporate the SpecializedStore in store concept, and oneof 15 shops to provide theSpecialized Body Fit system.The upper floor is 1,000 squareft of clothing (Altura mostly,and Specialized shoes, the onlyshoe brand in store). The lowerfloor is 1,500 square ft of bikesand accessories. Again,Specialized dominates butthere are also Trek bikes ondisplay.

The business has been inGosforth since 1894 althoughit wasn't originally a bike shop.The association with cyclesstarted in the 1920s. Thebusiness was bought by Geoff

Dobson in 1954. In 1980 heand Dave Yates, a formerschoolteacher, founded M.Steel Lightweight Cycles tomanufacture custom frames ata factory unit in Wallsend, fivemiles from the Gosforth shop.

Joe Waugh, an accountant,joined the company in 1982.Waugh won a gold medal atthe Commonwealth GamesTeam Time Trial in Brisbane,Australia in 1982. He was alsoa noted hill climber, winningMilk Race jerseys, which nowhang in the shop.

The new location is a formerfishing tackle shop and took amonth to renovate.

“It’s been a long time in themaking but we’re all so happyto be moved in. I can’t believehow good the new shoplooks," enthused Waugh.

“We now haveenough space toreally show offwhat we’re about.We are here forthe people whocycle to work or

take the kids out for a ride onthe weekend, as much as weare here for the racers andmountain bike enthusiasts.”

Renovating the shop nextdoor wasn't a stress free taskfor Waugh. He said: "Need tolose weight? Forget diets andexercise, just move shop.”

At the official opening, over100 guests - including formerco-owners of the business,Geoff Dobson and Dave Yates -were treated to food, drink, andthe services of a caricatureartist and balloon sculptors.

To Alan Shearer, Waugh said:"Forget the caps, forget all thegoals, forget all the accolades,you're now my hero. You'vediscovered a real sport:cycling!"


IBD PROFILE

M Steel Cycles

Owner: Joe WaughLocations: 6 to 10 Bowsdon Terrace, South Gosforth, NewcastleUpon Tyne, NE3 1RXEstablished: 1894Telephone: 0191 285 1251Web: www.msteelcycles.co.ukEmail: [email protected] times: Monday 9:30-6:00; Tuesday-Friday 8:30-6:00;Saturday 9:00-5:00; Sunday 10:00-4:00

Scoring with Alan Shearer...

BRANDS BY

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SEE ONLINE DEMONSTRATIONS OF OUR NEW ADVANCED TOOL RANGE – VISIT WWW.WELDTITE.CO.UK/TOOLS-PODCASTS.ASPX


Moore LargeTHE KENDA John Tomac signatureKing of Traction tyre is well-suited forthe muddy conditions that the Britishwinter provides us with year afteryear.

The dual layer rubber increaseswet-weather performance, while thedesign takes into account suitable gripin wet, muddy and soft or looseterrain conditions. The tyre featuresan aggressive knobbly tread,increasing traction, yet are spaced farenough apart for tread clearing.

Available in 26-inch only, the tyrealso has been developed in adownhill suited version. Retail priceis £26.99. To become a stockist orfor further information contactMoore Large on 01332 274 252 oremail [email protected].

IsonHALO has several exciting new

products for 2009 – including UKdirt jump superstar Sam Pilgrim'ssignature SAS Purple Hazewheelset. These wheels havebeen tested by Pilgrim formonths and helped him onthe way to win the QashqaiLondon event, as well as theAvoriaz Roof n' Slopestyleand Adidas SlopestyleSaalbach comps. Thewheelset is available withtwo front hub choices andtwo rear hub choices to caterfor all 26-inch jumping needs.

All 2009 Halo SAS andFreedom Disc wheels will come

with upgraded Halo Spin DoctorPro rear hubs, which use fully-

sealed, using four-cartridge bearings.Halo also has Track wheels in a new

Purple colourway adding to the range,which includes Fluro Yellow, Black andWhite colours.

To accompany these track wheels a newHalo Twin Rail Courier tyre (700c x 24mm)is being added to the range to keep all thefixies and urban cyclists happy.

Available in several bright colours, (aswell as black) including, pink, green, whiteand purple, these will make bikes stand outfrom the crowd.

Using Halo’s patented Twin Rail design,these tyres make it easy to take bikes alongtowpaths, as well as tarmac.

Halo has an extensive range of wheels,tyres, skewers and tubes to cover all typesof cycling, including road, XC, jumping, DH,cyclo-cross, commuter, track and BMX, allof which can be seen atwww.halorims.com.

Unicycles, bicycles and tricycles all utilise the wheel and its components in one way or another.BikeBiz analyses the market’s most current products from the tyres right down to the hubs, as wellas the pumps best suited to the customer’s needs...

On a roll...

PaligapPALIGAP'S latest edition to its portfolio,Fast Forward wheels, has gotten off to anincredibly speedy start, with sales out-performing the distributor’s estimates byover 70 per cent.

Perhaps one reason why dealers havefrantically snapped up the wheels is thecompetitive margin offered. Anadditional selling-point is that all FFWDwheels include a padded wheel bag,something traditionally sought as anextra by consumers.

According to Ben Gaby, marketingmanager of Paligap: "The big sellers seem

to be F4R wheelsets with own-brandFFWD hubs. There has also been greatinterest in the white version of theF2R wheels."

And, it's not just Fast Forward that’savailable via the distributor. Paligapalso handles Ritchey wheels andcomponents.

The Ritchey Silhouette wheelset,aimed at cyclo-cross enthusiasts,features a completely serviceablebearing and cone system. Designed tobe vertically compliant on roughroads, Ritchey wheels are built tough,yet are light enough to blend in on thevery highest quality custom builds.


HopeIN CONSUMER magazine reviews, theHope Pro3 wheels have been describedas a 'bombproof' set of wheels, suitedto racing or touring.

A continuation of the Pro 2 wheels,the new Pro3 SP (straight pull) wheelsare a combination of lightweight,reliability and value. Again teaming upwith world renowned DT Swiss, andusing their proven Super CompetitionTriple Butted spokes and new XR 4.2drims . Hope wheelsets are laced andhand-finished in the UK.

The XR 4.2d rim offers superbconstruction, low weight and an idealwheel build for general XC use throughto all day epics and racing. Seventies

SHADOW constructs its wheels usingsome of the best aftermarket partsavailable. This effectively creates ahigh-end wheelset out of parts thatwould normally have to be purchasedseparately and then built, thus cuttingdown on sourcing the parts separatelyand then having to lace and true them,both of which can end up being timeconsuming and costly.

The wheels are built using ShadowRota rims. The front is paired with aShadow Rant front hub - a lightweight,low flange, 10mm axle, sealed bearings,36-holed hub - whilst the rear is pairedwith the Shadow Rant V2 cassette hub,

which runs on a 14mm axle andcomes in nine and ten toothsizes. This hub takes a uniqueapproach in cassette hubdesigns by inverting thespring and pawl mechanism,mounting them in the hubinstead of the driver. Thisallows six double size pawlsand individual springs to beutilised, creating an ultrareliable hub in a compactlightweight package.

The wheelsets are availablewith black hubs and spokeswith a choice of black, white,lime, purple or red rims. (The rearis also available with a Chrome rim)

ExtraAVAILABLE from Extra, Hutchinson isone of the brands pushing the pacein the tyre market at present.Offering a diverse range oftyres and tubelessalternatives, as well as tubesand more, dealers will find agood choice of stock.

Final prices are yet to beconfirmed on the newHutchinson line, becauseof the ever fluctuatingexchange rate. Howeverdealers will be able to getthese details from Extra bythe time this edition lands.

An example tyre from the new lineis the Cobra, an all round tyre suitedprimarily to dry terrain. This model wasdesigned alongside Olympic championand Team Orbea rider, Julien Absalon

The tyre has a dense pattern ofknobs for traction, while the tread islowered in the centre to minimiserolling resistance. High lateralgrips surround these, meaning thetyre will hold its grip throughcorners. Also weaved into thedesign is a 'skaneskin' pattern onthe sidewalls, something likelyto make it stand out fromothers on the rack. The Cobra isavailable in two widths, 2.10and 2.25, both in 26-inch only.

Chicken CyclekitCELEBRATING 100 years of rimmanufacturing, Rigida has becomerenowned for its customer support, highlevels of service and accountability. Today,Rigida International is the world’s largestrim maker with subsidiaries in France,Holland, Hungary, China and Malaysia.Other new sites are in the process offinalisation or under consideration. Rigida has developed the Safety Line,Carbide Supersonic sidewalls, internaldimpled oversize spoke holes and its StarAssembly Technology. A retro-fit TubelessSeal is the latest patent the company has

obtained. These innovations show thatRigida is continuously searching forproducts with advantages for itscustomers and riders.

The safety line system also shows thewear out of the rim. Without this the rimsidewall would collapse immediately. Thesystem gives a warning to replace the rimby a concentric groove at the brake-side ofthe rim and prevents potential accidents.

The Carbide Supersonic sidewalls isRigida’s highest quality for optimalbraking, even in wet weathercircumstances. Special brake blocks areneeded, which can be obtained throughMagura, Koolstop and Swiss-stop.

Internal dimpled spokeholes improvecrossing of spokes for wheels and thestability of wheels with big hubs such asthose on E-bikes.

Rigida’s tubeless system is attractive inprice and comes with a Tubeless Seal andrim tape for tubeless rims that can befitted after the wheel has been made. Itoffers all the benefits of tubeless, but inaddition, the advantage that in case thetubeless tyre is too heavily damaged tomake on road repairs, a tube can be fittedwith ease.

The Rigida Group has pledged a 100per cent commitment to continuousimprovement in quality, delivery dates

and product innovation. For the first timea complete selection of rims is nowavailable in the UK from distributorsChicken Cycle-Kit.

Early next year the first deliveries ofRyde Rigida wheels will come on stream.This delivery will include aselection of road andMTB wheels.

Coyote SportsCOYOTE SPORTS carries acomprehensive range of tyres and tubesfrom DSI and under its own brandedKonnekt brand, too. Coyote also carries aselection of Rubena tyres and tubes,which will be increased over the comingmonths.

Coyote has a comprehensive range ofwheels, with branded models fromSkyways, Wilkinson Wheels, Cross wheelsand a house brand of Coyote wheels. TheWilkinson wheel range covers a variety of

24, 26-inch, 700c road and hybrid and 27x 11/4. The Cross wheels come as amatching pair, boxed in single pairs withv-section, special spoke patterns andcrosser rims.

Coyote also stocks a huge range ofBMX wheels, including the PremierWheels and Sat-lite mags. New arrivalsinto the range include the much sortretro Skyway mags, great for dealers withan old-school following.

For full details, visit www.coyote-sports.com or phone the sales line on01204 548903.

CannondaleCANNONDALE has focused a lot ofattention to make its product appeal tofemale cyclists, going as far as hiring staffwith plenty of experience in tailoringitems to hold greater appeal to women.

The women's specific track pump isevidence of the lengths the company isgoing to draw female cyclists. With asmaller diameter, soft touch ergonomichandle, the track pump is much bettersuited to female hands.

The pump has a much lower verticalheight, yet holds a double-chamberedbarrel for easier inflation. Like most thingsnowadays, it’s designed lightweight,upping its appeal further. Don’t be fooledthough, the alloy barrel is built tough.

Other features include a micro-adjust

bleeder valve, atough steel baseproviding maximumvertical support andrubber foot grips.

A top-mountedeasy to read gauge,segmented by PSIreadings, adds tothe spec-sheet. TheHeadMaster valvehead is compatiblewith both prestaand schraderwithoutmodification, whilethe locking headensures it won'tbackfire whenpressure is applied.

Alex RimsACLASS, the wheel brand of the leadingTaiwanese rim manufacturer Alex Rimshas developed eight new models for2009. These all focus on the aftermarketfor light and exclusive wheelsets. AClasshas developed complete new hubsfor MTB and road wheelstogether with theEuropean designcompany. All wheelsstill use ultra-reliable DT Spokes.

Alex Rims hasutilised several

technologies to make wheels asaerodynamically flush, light and strong aspossible. For example, the R600 model issaid to be the first and only 42mmaerodynamic alloy rim with a weight ofless than 600g.

Another highlight is the XCR ProScandium, the latest development of

Alexrims. The rim is made of SSL(Scandium Superlight)

material and has a weightof only 300g. The rim

has already been usedfor over 18-monthsby the MeridaMultivan Team.



Fisher OutdoorsAVAILABLE from February 2009, FisherOutdoors will take stock of SRAM wheels.The S-series caters for road enthusiasts,constructed from carbon shaped to beaero-efficient, yet competition ready.

With the same toroidal profile as thefastest wheels in the world (Zipp) SRAMwheels make an affordable package witha proven pedigree.

The S-series rims feature an aluminiumbraking surface, which provides fargreater, yet smoother stopping power.Sapim spokes are laced into alloy nipples– 18 on the front 20 on the rear. Eachwheel utilises an anti-vibrationdampening technology for top-endcomfort, while the anodized hubs withquick-release levers are compatible withSRAM and Shimano components. Thehand-built wheels roll on Japanesebearings, offering an ultra low-friction roll.

There are three wheels available, S40,S60 and S80. The S40 is a lighter weightclimbing aero wheel, which accelerates,and sprints with the best of them.The S60 is a versatile 'do it all'wheelset. It is fast,comfortable, andaerodynamic. Windtunneltests proved thiswheelset is one of themost aerodynamicwheels, allowing the

rider to cut through the wind with ease.Finally the S80 uses a very deep rimshape that was developed, tested andrefined in the wind tunnel for maximumefficiency for riding against the clock.

Brand new to the distributor, comesWTB’s range of tyres and components.The brand manufactures a variety of tyressuited to all-mountain and cross-countrypursuits.

The brand’s latest cross-country suitedrubber – named the Wolverine – is agreat climber that performs equally wellon descent. This fast-rolling tyre’smoderately-spaced tread patterncombines plentiful working edges thatclimb to hardpack and outside knobs thatlet you shred corners. Both a 1.95 and a2.2 width are available in both UST andrace versions.

For all-mountain and freeride, both theProwler MX and XT models are extremelycapable in wet, dry and loose terrain. TheMX utilises the same aggressivetransitions and outside knobs as theprowler XT, but features a shifted centre

tread. The MX is a highly predictabletyre at speed, boasting deep-

piercing lateral grip in looseconditions. The 2.3-inch

version excels ontreacherous descents and

high-speed chutes whilethe thinner 2.1 MXthrives on trail rides.

SKSTHE SKS REVO pump combinesinnovative technology with a pumpspecifically designed for mountain bikers.Revo-lock is the name given to the newvalve clamping system, which does awaywith the traditional locking lever. Byturning the sleeve through 90-degrees,the pump will engage and clamp thevalve securely.

The Puro has been designed as a high-pressure pump specific for road bikes.

Complete with a recessed valve head andintegrated pressure gauge this pump hasthe cool factor.

SKS also manufactures a variety ofmudguards, including the best-sellingShockblade. The front guard is highlyadaptable, fitting the majority ofsuspension forks with an easy quickrelease fastening. The Shockblade’s bodyis made from a virtually unbreakable,high-quality dual-compound plastic.

The brand is available in the UK viaRaleigh, Chicken Cyclekit and Madison.

BohleALTHOUGH nearly tenyears old, the FatAlbert is still one ofSchwalbe’s mostpopular mountain bike

tyres. It was the first ofthe big volume, yetlightweight tyres. Now

Schwalbe has created awhole new generation of this

‘all-rounder’.The Fat Albert excels in marathon

and 24-hour rides, as well as holdingits own in Freeride events. The FatAlbert grips and performs on anyterrain – either wet or dry. Makingthem front and rear specific hasallowed the Schwalbe technicians toconcentrate the tread design to fullymeet the requirements of both tyres,for example traction for the rear andimproved steering and braking controlfor the front.

The shoulder positioned U-Blocksof the front tyre grip positively incornering offering extreme confidenceat speed. The rear provides powerful

propulsion, but without any loss ofcornering grip.

New for 2009, these tyres aredesigned with the Evolution carcass,again taken from the Nobby Nic andRacing Ralph series. The tyres alsofeature the new Triple Nanocompound and the SnakeSkinsidewalls as standard with the optionsof Double Defence using the new HDCeramic Guard puncture protectionbelt under the tread. This is all inaddition to Schwalbe's USTtechnology. The air retention of theUST tyres is not maintained by theincorporation of butyl into the treadcompound, but by applying an internallayer of butyl to the inside of the tyre.This means that only deep penetrationcan reach this layer, which can easilybe repaired with a conventionalpuncture repair patch.

Sizes include 26 x 2.25 and 26 x2.40 folding only.

For further information about theSchwalbe 2009 range, contact ChrisHearn at Bohle UK on 01952 602680or alternatively visit the website atwww.schwalbe.com.

MadisonSHIMANO’S new 29er tubelessready disc wheelset will be awelcome addition to thosealternative riders who’vealready invested in the 29erscene. They’ll also appeal toriders of the new breed of discequipped 700c commuters andhybrids popping up everywhereat the moment. Stiff, strongand reasonably lightweight,these wheels utilise a straightpull, double butted 24-spokedesign, 23.3mm rim width,oversize 7075 T6 alloy axlesand angular contact bearings.

Madison also handlesContinental in the UK, meaning stockof the brand new Der Kaiser and RainKing DH Tyres, both £44.99 at retailcost, is available now.

Der Kaiser is a super sticky tyre,which uses Continental’s secret BlackChilli compound and a strong double-ply carcass to ward off the pinch flats.

The Rain King DH is the brand’s foulweather spike for when the mud isthick. Both tyres are available in afolding 2.5-inch version to begin with,weigh under 1,000g each and are dueinto stock in the New Year.

The distributor also handles bothBlackburn and Park, both of whichoffer pumps. The Blackburn Air Towercarries the standard lifetime warranty,can inflate to 140 PSI and comes inthree colours. Retail price is £29.99.

Park Tool's Half Pint mini pumpfeatures an aluminium barrel, softtouch grips and a flip-out handlemake it easy on the hands.

GelertOUTDOORS company Gelert has anextensive range of pumps on offer tocycle retail. Models range from thetop-of-the-range 'electronic' trackpump (trade price £16.95) right downto an 'eco' track pump costing just£2.20 at trade. An assortment of footpumps and hand pumps are alsoavailable from just £2.75 (trade price).

Of the hand pumps, the mini alloypump with gauge features achangeable valve lock for schrader,presta and woods valves. The integralpressure gauge measures PSI/BAR

readings. Other features include afolding T-handle and a fitting bracket –all for £2.75 trade price.

The top of the range 'electronic'pump is built from aluminium and hasa unique electronic pre-settablepressure alarm system that includes abacklight for night use.

The Gelert sales hotline can becontacted on 001766510300.

CyclesportNorthAS DISTRIBUTOR of both Campagnoloand Vittoria, Cyclesport North has plentyon offer to get customers rolling.

Vittoria puts a tremendous amount ofeffort into maintaining its position as theworld’s uncontested top name in tubularsand tyres, and is constantly developingcutting-edge technologies and innovativenew products. The invaluable sharedexperience of several cycling championshas lead to the creation of tyres andtubulars capable of satisfying even themost demanding and expert users.

Of the Campagnolo product, expectto see a blend of prime-qualitymaterials from the aerospaceindustry: carbon fibre, titanium andaluminium alloys. Products in carbonfibre are constantly being created, as aglance at the 2008 collection reveals. Itincludes cranksets, front and rearderailleurs, integrated controls, headsets,

seatposts, bottle cages and high and low-profile wheels, all made from carbon fibre.

Besides distinguishing themselves atthe top in terms of innovation, qualityand performance, Campagnolo productshave also become the benchmark fordesign. This is testified by the prestigiousCompasso d’Oro award from theAssociazione Design Italiano.




I WOULD LIKE to rallyBikeBiz readers to sign apetition shortly to appear onthe 10 Downing Streetwebsite regarding a drivingban for those who phone ortext and drive.

There is currently a one-year minimum ban for thosecaught drink driving, yetstatistics say that textingand driving is nearly three-

times as dangerous as drivingover the limit. I think it onlyfair that those who areirresponsible at the wheel bebanned from driving as theyare a danger to themselvesand, more importantly,cyclists and pedestrians.

To date, I have beenknocked off or forced off theroad in 12 separate incidentsby negligent, law-breakingdrivers. On a typical journey, Isee perhaps a dozen motoristsusing their mobiles at thewheel and that's not includingthe ones who hide handsets intheir lap while texting.

An interestingdevelopment is the use of

front or rear-mountedcameras by cyclists, which aremore likely to make abusivedrivers think twice whenconsidering a cyclist’s safety.

These cameras level theplaying field. Why should acyclist not have equalopportunity to reporthazardous drivers, when themotorist can escape the lawwith various on-board devicessuch as sat-navs, which alertthem to speed cameras?

A stunning 50 per cent ofdrivers admit to texting whiledriving, according a TransportResearch Laboratory study.Reactions slow by 35 per centwhile using mobile devices.Even those who had smokedcannabis would make saferdrivers, with delayed reactionsof 21 per cent.

I will soon be posting apetition on the 10 DowningStreet website with variousaims to ensure the cyclist istreated equally on our roads.Another aim would be tomake sure courts were willingto accept photographicevidence provided by acyclist, pedestrian or other vehicle.

The website can be foundat: http://petitions.number10.gov.uk. Road Peace can becontacted on 0845 4500 355.Best wishes, Alan Ramsay, Road Peace


LETTERS PAGE

Email: [email protected] mail to: Saxon House, 6A St. Andrews Street,

Hertford, Hertfordshire, SG14 1JA

I MUST SAY I find all themedia furore over the so-called credit crunch verydeceiving. If you seriouslylistened to Jeremy Paxmanand the like on newsprogrammes being broadcaston every channel going, you’dbe under the impression thatthe sky was going to fall inunder the weight ofeconomic pressure.

However, I run a smalldealership in Gloucestershireand I can honestly say thatbusiness is booming. Saturdaymornings in particular arebusier than they’ve ever been,and we are even gettingincreased footfall during the week.

I used to have to close theshop on Wednesdays andThursdays a little under ayear ago, but now I’m openall week (much to my wife’sapproval). We used to mainlydeal in mountain bikes andBMXs, but in the last year orso we’ve had much more

demand for mid-to-high-endbikes of all sorts, evendemand for electrics. Theseare being bought by bothmen and women for travel toand from work.

This brings me on to myconclusion – the economicclimate, which is so heavilyimpacting upon things suchas petrol, is actually workingout quite well for the averagebike retailer, even thoseslightly out of the way likemyself. As the price ofrunning a car continues torise, and public transportremains as extortionate andunreliable as ever, we arebound to see more and morepeople turning to bikes astheir primary mode oftransport. Which is great forus, and great for theenvironment, too.

I say bring on the creditcrunch, and all the bikes salesthat come with it!Yours sincerely,James Hart, via email

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BikeBiz is keen to publish your opinions, whether this is from letters, emails or via BikeBiz.com...

Get online and sign

“Price increases, crap weather,doom and gloom news. What’severyone selling?”Lukeee

“Nothing. This week is theworst week of the year so far.”mike113

“I’m surprised nobody'smentioned BMX yet.”Lukeee

“BMX.”RussellHW

“Cross bikes and the new DefyAdvanced and Anthem X fromGiant are going well for us. Apartfrom that, loads of kids’ bikesand BMX.”Ex-angler

“BMX.”Beeman

“Ain’t nothing going on but the rent.”604xt

“Lights, mudguards, kids’ bikes,Monster Energy drink andshock services.”Marr

“Very little! Don’t you just loveretail?”galabikeshop

From the Forum...Business is boomingSo, what is selling in the run-up to Christmas...?

Whether it’s a hand-written, sent-through-the-post letter, email or acomment made on the BikeBiz forum,the best letter of the month wins a boxof twelve bottles of one-litre Muc-Offcleaner, supplied by Fisher Outdoor.

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

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

The BikeBiz Marketplace, and its associatedonline version, has been designed to offerreaders a directory of all products andservices in the bike trade.

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

The standard package includes:� A quarter page advert in each issue� Regular editorial coverage in the

dedicated column� Company details listed in the online

directory with web link� Company details listed in the BikeBiz

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Marketplace Rates: Quarter Page£175 (minimum six months)

BIKEBIZ MARKETPLACE CONTACTS

BIKES & ACCESSORIES

Paligap 01179 823 673 www.paligapltd.co.uk

COMPONENTS

USE Ltd 01798 344 477 www.use1.com

Bob Elliot & Co Ltd 01772 459 887 www.bob-elliot.co.uk

Pace Cycles Limited 01723 867919 www.pacecycles.com

EPOS

Abacus 0870 442 8240 www.abacusonline.net

GHC 0845 873 8245 www.ghc.co.uk

GEARS

The Cycle Division 0845 0508 500 www.thecycledivision.com

LIGHTING

Exposure Lights 01798 344 477 www.exposurelights.com

RACKS

Pendle Engineering Ltd 01282 699 555 www.pendle-bike.co.uk

Maxx Raxx Trading Ltd 0845 230 3799 www.maxxraxx.co.uk

RESPRAYS & REPAIRS

Argos 0117 972 4730 www.argoscycles.com

STORAGE

BikeBox 01709 365 408 www.bikeboxalan.co.uk

WATER BOTTLES

Wildoo Ltd 08709 771 550 www.wildoo.co.uk

Bottlestore 0845 602 9267 www.bottlesport.com

WEBSITE SERVICES

I-Bikeshop.com 01709 511766 www.I-bikeshop.com

WHEELS AND TUBULARS

Sonic Cycles 0207 2432848 www.soniccycles.co.uk

COMPONENTS

BIKEBIZ MARKETPLACE

COMPONENTS

BIKES AND ACCESSORIES


COMPONENTS

EPOS EPOS

GEARS LIGHTING


BIKEBIZ MARKETPLACE

BIKEBIZ MARKETPLACE

RESPRAYS AND REPAIRS STORAGE

RACKS


RACKS

WATER BOTTLES WATER BOTTLES

WEBSITE SERVICES WHEELS AND TUBULARS


BIKEBIZ MARKETPLACE

How can dealers become Abacusequipped?It’s as easy as a phone call and anappointment for a visit where we canschedule a full EPOS and websitedemonstation.

Why should they choose Abacusover competitive software?Abacus is the only system currently inthe marketplace that offers a highlevel of reporting and flexibility withan integrated stock lookup that feedsa dedicated website. The dealer stockinformation is held locally, so there’sno danger of losing vital data over theinternet and we also integrate withthe major suppliers for stock detailand imaging, making it very easy tocreate the product database and sendorders electronically.

The software is backed by over 20years of development specific to thecycle industry and as a consequenceis an extremely stable and reliableplatform.

What level of customer support canyou offer post-sale?In a word, high. We have a 24-hour,seven day-a-week helpline and ifremedial work is necessary we canaccess our software remotely toidentify any problem.

Hardware problems that require asite visit, we would treat as a matterof urgency. Our webservers arelocated on the top UK server farm andwe guarantee a 99 per cent uptime onthe websites. As I mentioned before,this is an extremely stable and reliablesystem, so these issues are few andfar between.

To what extent is the Abacussystem able to be tailored to thecycling trade?The system is pretty flexible and aswe grow, then we can engineereven greater flexibility into thesoftware. There’s no doubt, though,that this is a cycle industry productfirst and foremost.

What's the most popular systemwith cycle trade customers?The standard Abacus system is themost popular, but currently we areretro linking websites for our currentclients. Dealers who want a refined tillsystem with good reporting potentialand an integrated website optionshould give Abacus a seriousconsideration.

How is business generally forAbacus year on year?Our business continues to grow yearon year. 2008 has been yet anothersuccessful year as we continue to takeon many new customers. Dealers’requirements are becoming moresophisticated and we are there to helpinstall the reporting systems neededto grow their businesses.

Will you be present at any cycleshows this year? We will be attending Icebike inFebruary and Cycle 2009, plus someother shows yet to be confirmed.Anyone interested in the Abacussystem can contact us on 0151 3429799 or by email [email protected] and we canarrange an on-site demonstration withall questions answered.

TEL: 0151 342 9799EMAIL: [email protected]: www.abacusonline.net

COMPANY PROFILE

BIKEBIZ MARKETPLACE


2Pure 35

ACT 40

Alexrims 51

ATG 51, 63

Boca Bearing 51

Buffera 5, 43

Chicken 3, 62

Continental Tyres 48

Core Bike 13

Cycle Sport North 45

Fisher 42, 53

Halfords 38

Hope 21

Hotlines 64

ISON 33

Jim Walker 28

Karbon Kinetics 18

KTM Cover & Page 2

Madison 4, 8

Mission 39

Paligap 36

PCM 24

Powabyke 43

Powacycle 15

SKS 52

The Cycle Division 39, 43

Upgrade 26

Velorbis 54

Weldtite 46

Wicler 44

Windwave 31

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ADVERTISER INDEX

Abacus Business Software

The standard Abacusinstallation is most popularwith cycle retailers


OFF THE RECORD

quoteunquote Sponsored by the brands of

Moore Large 01332 274252

“I have noticed that adisturbing number of peoplethese days are riding aroundon bicycles with brownchains that sound likepillowcases full of mice. Irealise that my dream of apie plate-free world may befar-fetched, but I think aworld in which every chainknows a lubricant’s viscouskiss is realistic. If you canbrush your own teeth youcan lubricate your ownchain. If your chain is rustyor squeaky, just putsomething unctuous on it.That’s it. If you’re the kind ofcyclist who rides around witha squeaky drivetrain, chancesare you also ride a prettycrappy bike, so don't worry

about fancy boutique lubes.Seriously, just use anything.Three-In-One oil, motor oil,grease, K-Y Jelly, chicken fat– whatever you’ve got inyour tool box, refrigerator, orbedside drawer is fine. Evenyour own mucus can work ata pinch.”BikeSnobNYC,http://bikesnobnyc.blogspot.com, October 31st

“The Russians are winningthis quite easily, but if theywere to crash before theend, even in the last lap,and the Netherlands were –oops – whoa! And whathave I said?! Straight away!My goodness me, I mustn’tsay things like this! Thatmeans the Netherlands willwin the bronze medal! Mygoodness me, that isspooky.”BBC TV commentary fromHugh Porter ‘causing’ thecrash of the Russiancycling pursuit team atthe UCI World Cup inManchester in October

“Beijing has sparked a surgein popularity across the

sport. Tills are ringing atbike shops and ‘have-a-go’sessions at the Manchestertrack are booked up untilFebruary.”The Independent,November 1st

“You know British cyclinghas come of age when you

see bona fide ticket toutsoutside, such is the demandfor this event.”Jill Douglas talking aboutthe UCI World Cup,Manchester, BBC.co.uk,November 2nd

“It’s driven by the right setof goals. We just don’t wantto see space set aside foruses that there's nodemand for.”Mike Slattery, senior vicepresident of the RealEstate Board of New York,thinks that there may notbe enough demand for anew initiative in the city,which would require allnew builds to set asidespace for bike parking.Hugh Porter

UCI World Cup

OFF THE RECORD

Charge Bikes has moved itsoffices to an idyllic spot onthe Somerset coastline.

Charge BikesUnit R1Commerce ParkFromeSomersetBA11 2FEENGLAND+44 (0) 1373 453000

So, about that housewarming party…

Send your pictures to [email protected]

TSG in the Design Exhibition MuseumTSG Protection has earned its place in theMuseum of Design in Plastics exhibition. Ison’sbrand appears alongside shinpads from Nike,eyewear from Electric Visual and knee and shinprotective supports from 661.

The exhibition project was given a signedSam Pilgrim model TSG Evolution helmet fordisplay. Louise Dennis, assistant curator at theMuseum, said: “The exhibition will be up untilthe end of January, with the hope that it maygo on to some other museums afterwards."

The exhibition is designed to reflect howplastics have contributed to sports.

Obamarama!Here’s a few snaps sent by ThunderVote in America –an organisation designed to encourage voters to thepolling stations. The bike shown is a custom-paintedDolan track bike designed by Thunderdog Studios. Thebike was used on the campaign trail to rouse supportfor president-elect Barack Obama.

Terry Dolan, owner of Dolan, said of the bike: “Thiswas the craze in the States; people were just gettingbikes and customising them to show their support forObama. These guys just bought one of ours and set towork on it, our US distributor sent us the snaps.”

Pre-election, Obama was spotted aboard a Trekmountain bike, presumably his ride of choice. Alsospotted on the internet, Obama spokey dokies!

RevolutionRollapaluzadraws 170ridersAny hopes the Rollapaluza crew had ofmingling with the stars and watchingthe track racing at Revolution last monthdisappeared at 5.30pm, when the venue opened and aqueue of 170 racers formed at their sign-in desk.

During the next five hours over 250 times were set bythe eager crowd. “We’re glad we brought two rigs,” saidPaul Churchill of Rollapaluza. “We’re used to being busy,but this is exceptional.”

Full results and photos are up on www.rollapaluza.com.

LATEST NEWS

BOOKMARK US:MOBILE.BIKEBIZ.COM

STRAIGHT TO YOUR MOBILE

IF THE banking systems of the world can fall to pieces,just because American banks loan money to people whocannot pay it back, what help is there for us smallbusinesses? Will the banks hold our hands through thiseconomic downturn? If the overdrafts climb through thefirst quarter of 2009, how many companies – not only inthe cycle industry – will fall by the wayside? Will thebanks help out as Mr Brown and Mr Darling are asking? Idoubt they will.

How many of us knew that the banking systems ofthe world were run closer to the nail head than our ownbusinesses? If we move forward 50 years and theeconomies of Asia and China catch up with the Westernworld, no longer will products be so cheap. Once thesenations’ peoples revolt and their standard of livingimproves, they will need to earn the same wage as us inthe West. They will also start purchasing the veryproducts they are making and packing to send offaround the world.

Gone will be the endless stream of container ships ofcheap product sailing around the world. Will we then getback to each and every country producing andmanufacturing again – importing only the raw materialthat is not home grown? Maybe then the world will be abetter place for all to live.

Gone will be the half price bikes we see advertised,you know, the folding bike from Sterling House. Buy oneget one free. Raleigh is advertising this month in thenational press. Half price bikes. Can they really be halfprice? Either they are overpriced in the first instance, orthey are really cutting the profit line because they haveover-bought. Will the consumer really fall for the factthat they are half the original price?

How long will it be before these Far-Eastern producingcountries have governments of the people, with non-corrupt rulers? I believe the days of cheaper and cheaperimports are nearing the end. The cost of shipping freightaround the world continues to increase. The docking andduty added to the freight cost is almost 30 per cent ofthe total retail price. With the pound continuing to dropthere have to be constant price reviews. That issomething we are not used to in the cycle industry.

Writing this in mid-November, there does seem to bea slow down, but not a total disaster. As a supplier, I hopeto live off stock through the first quarter of 2009, beingvery careful what I order for the coming summer. I donot want a warehouse full of stock that is not moving.

Let us hope all the media predictions are wrong, andwe do not see another ‘70s decline, when companiesdisappeared. Famous names, now only a name on a bike.No longer a brand. Falcon. Elswick. Puch. Peugeot. Viking.Trusty-Viscount. Coventry Eagle.

Merry Christmas, and I wish for readers to steer asteady ship in the New Year.

Scott SnaithChairman, 50 Cycles

IN THE SADDLE

How many of us knew

that the banking

systems of the world were run

closer to the nail head

than our own businesses?

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What bikes do you own?I currently own a Kalkhoff Proconnect Sport, a fantasticPedelec that is as close to being a conventional bike asit is an electric bike. Some people say I’m cheating.However, one could argue that having gears on a bike ischeating...

Where's your favourite place to ride?My favourite place to ride is the Peak District, becauseit is local and has some beautiful scenery.

Tell us about your business background?I worked overseas for the first six years of my career,firstly as a sales manager in Bali. Then in Tokyo, Japan,for three years, working in the financial services sector.It was in Japan and because of the love of technologyand bicycles that our company was formed. We werethe first company in the UK to sell the Honda Step-Compo and the Panasonic Pedelec system that wassuccessfully used on the Giant Lafree.

In 2004 I made the descision to quit my job and returnback to the UK, where both myself and my brother Timregistered 50 Cycles. This was one of the first electricbike distributorships in the UK. Pedelecs are now thebiggest growth sector in European bike sales this year.For us, sales are up 80 per cent year-on-year.

We decided to launch Univega in the UK becauseour experience with Derby Cycles and the Kalkhoffbrand has been very good. There was no distributor inthe UK for Univega, so we began using the bikes in ourcompany for a racing team we had formed. Our teamfound the bikes to be such good performers and offersuch great value, that we could not resist bringing themto the UK for the rest of the country to experience.

OFF THE RECORD

Has the pound hit rockbottom yet? Doubtful...Spokesman asks: Will countries which have previously surrenderedmanufacturing to the East rise from the dust once again...?

SPOKESMAN

62 BIKEBIZ DECEMBER

Documents

BikeBiz Issue 35, December 2008