The Garmin Tacx Team Race Night went off in style on a rainy Thursday evening in Kendal! Garmin Tacx came together with Wheelbase Lake District and the popular New Union Pub in Kendal to host a fun-filled night of fast and frenetic racing on cutting-edge Tacx Neo Smart Bikes as each team of three riders took on the infamous Yorkshire climb of Fleet Moss in a team-relay format, all done virtually through Tacx’s brilliantly immersive racing platform.
With the focus firmly set on everyone having a good time the racing was kept fun and somewhat chaotic as each rider put out a full-on effort to ride one kilometre of the climb before the next rider would jump on the same bike to complete their leg of the race. Eight pre-registered teams of three made up a stacked field of twenty four riders ready to duke it out, with two teams racing head-to-head and the losing team of each race being eliminated until we were left with just two teams fighting it out for the big win.
There was a great mix of riders ready to give it their all, with plenty of mixed gender teams and a wide range of abilities all strategizing on how best to take on the climb, utilising their collective strength in an attempt to take overall victory. In between racing there was plenty of good beer consumed and a fantastic level of support from the crowd for each and every rider; noise levels were through the roof as each competitor gurned their way through the steepest sections of the climb.
Speaking of gurning, there was a fantastic price on offer for the best pain face of the night! Each racer had their pain face captured on camera before it was opened up to the crowd at the end to cheer for their favourite. The winner of the best pain face would go home with their own height in beer! Special thanks to Lakes Brew Co. for this excellent prize!
The grand final of the team race would see the Penrith Pedallers taking on Lactic Intolerance; both teams featured just the right mix of cycling talent with a combination of flyweight climbers for the steep portions and big powerful units ready to put out some huge watts on the flatter sections. Needless to say the racing was close, but in the end Penrith Pedallers’ magic mix of cycling talent took the victory with riders each receiving £100.00 in Wheelbase vouchers as well as some Wheelbase Castelli cycling kit.
Garmin Tacx also provided a separate price for the fastest climber of the night on a grueling course that featured cobbles and gradients of up to 21%. Our winner posted an impressive time and took a Garmin Varia RCT715 Radar Camera & Tail Light worth £349.99
Everyone who attended was also eligible for the free prize draw with one lucky winner taking home a fantastic Tacx Flux 2 Smart Trainer worth £499.00 while Garmin also provided a free goody bag to everyone at the Tacx Team Race Night.
A massive thank you to everyone who came to our event and made it such a fun night! We’re already looking forward to doing it all again soon! Scroll through below to see some of the best pain faces of the night and our price winners!…
Save up to 25% on selected bikes at Wheelbase! It’s the End of Season Sale!
Enjoy big discounts on Road, Gravel, Mountain and Kid’s bikes as well as E-Leisure and E-Mountain Bikes while stocks last. We’ve also got 25% off all our clothing from leading brands including Fox, Endura, Troy Lee Designs and Castelli.
As well as our heavily discounted range of bikes we’ve also got 25% off all our clothing from leading brands including Fox, Endura, Troy Lee Designs and Castelli; shop now while stocks last!
Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli are now taking rider applications for 2023!
The UK’s longest-running elite road racing team, Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli are now accepting applications for the 2023 season.
After another massively successful year of racing we have seen our team of young racers excel at the highest level while we continue to serve as a significant stepping stone to international road racing.
You can be part of this friendly and ambitious team in 2023.
Please send your racing palmares and a few words about yourself to team@wheelbase.co.uk
Yes, it’s bike launch time again! And you’d be excused for thinking this was simply another new top of the range carbon road bike from market leaders TREK. But look a little closer, notice the + symbol in the product name and you’ll quickly realise that this in fact a brand new e-road bike! The TREK Domane+ SLR is a somewhat revolutionary e-bike that only weighs around 11.8kg and features a drive system that’s so cleverly integrated into the bike it’s almost invisible. The technology that TREK have used to power the bike is compact, superlight and almost completely silent; so what tech have TREK used to produce such a natural looking and feeling e-road bike? Let’s learn a little more about the cutting-edge Domane+ SLR …
The TREK Domane+ SLR is a somewhat revolutionary e-bike that only weighs around 11.8kg
It’s easy to miss the fact that the Domane+ SLR is in fact an e-bike because it’s superlight and almost completely silent.
Let’s get one thing straight, the all-new TREK Domane+ SLR is crazy light for an e-bike, weighing in at an incredible 11.8kg. That’s thanks in no small part to Trek’s all-new 800-series OCLV frame that is over 700g lighter than the outgoing Domane+ combined with the cutting-edge TQ Harmonic Pin Ring motor which is currently re-writing the rule book when it comes to e-bike motors, thanks to its compact size, light weight and natural feel. Those of you who have been following TREK closely over the past few months will have seen the same motor featuring on their ‘e-mtb-lite’ option – the Fuel EXe launched in July which is Trek’s offering for a rapidly growing market of e-bikes designed to give a much more natural ride feel without unnecessary levels of power and unwanted extra weight.
TREK have utilised the sublime qualities of the TQ motor already seen on their Fuel EXe e-mountain bike.
The beautifully integrated TQ drive system is not much larger in diameter than a typical fizzy drink can and takes up very little room in the Domane+ SLR frame; likewise the compact internal battery, located in the downtube, is slim and light so the proportions of the carbon frame look right and there’s sensible weight distribution for a low centre of gravity that doesn’t negatively affect how the bike handles. So how have TQ managed to shrink their motor so significantly? Well most other e-bike motors use gears and belts to transmit power, taking up more space and creating more noise; the TQ Harmonic Pin Ring motor uses a harmonic drive transmission instead which is significantly smaller AND quieter.
The TQ motor is so compact it’s easy to miss it entirely.
Here’s some more quick facts on the TQ System…
Motor: TQ-HPR50 with 50 Nm of torque, up to 300 watts of peak power
Downtube Internal Battery: TQ360 360Wh
Battery Range: Approx 80 miles (130 miles with optional Range Extender), 2hr charge time
Range Extender (sold separately): 160Wh (40% additional range) 900grams, 1hr charge time
Assist Modes: 3
Mode-Change Buttons: Mounted to shifters
Trek Central App: Motor tuning customisation – adjust max power, assist power and pedal response according to assist level. Range estimations, general e-system information
TQ are leading the way when it comes to the move towards lighter, more natural feeling e-bike drive systems.
The svelte display is set neatly into the Domane+ SLR’s top tube.
Trek’s Central App lets you fine-tune how your Domane+ SLR’s TQ motor assists your pedalling.
The TQ motor has been tuned specifically to give a natural-feeling level of pedal assistance which really suits how road bikes are typically ridden; you don’t feel an obvious kick like you do from some other e-bike motors, it’s more of a subtle but equally powerful level of assistance. The TQ motor’s compact size means the Domane+ SLR features a close to standard Q factor (the width of the bottom bracket and chainset combined) while the motor’s control buttons are located on the hoods which all contributes to an authentic real road feel. The Domane+ SLR features all of the same endurance-focused features as the traditional Domane including Trek’s unique IsoSpeed decoupler to smooth out rough roads as well as rider-friendly geometry for all-day comfort. Tyre clearance has been increased too with 40mm now being the maximum compatible tyre width, meaning you’re all set to venture from smooth tarmac to gravel. In summary you benefit from all of the features of the much-loved original Domane with an added natural-feeling boost on the hills or during long rides into rather testing headwinds.
Enjoy a natural-feeling road bike with the added boost required to sail up the hills.
Trek Domane+ SLR 9 eTap RRP £12,900.00
Full Specification:
Frame: 800 Series OCLV Carbon, TQ drive system, tapered head tube, rear IsoSpeed, internal routing, flat mount disc, mudguard mounts, 142×12 mm thru axle
Fork: Domane+ carbon, tapered carbon steerer, internal brake routing, mudguard mounts, flat mount disc, 12×100 mm thru axle
Motor: TQ-HPR50, 50 Nm, 250 watt max cont rated power, 300 watt peak power
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Autumn is here, we’re into October and that can mean only one thing – it’s Cyclocross season! The Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli team headed to Round 1 of the National Trophy Cyclocross series taking place at the iconic Moorways, Derby venue. With a healthy sized team spread over a wide range of race categories Wheelbase was well-represented over a weekend packed full of elbow-to-elbow racing on a fast track, which despite a week of rain, stayed dry and hard-packed throughout the weekend.
The Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli team were back in action at Round 1 of the National Trophy Cyclocross series.
Scottish lad Rory McGuire was returning to national-level racing for Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli, hoping to continue where he left of last season; Rory won a round of the Trophy series in 2021 and consistently placed in the top ten, finishing 3rd overall in both the Senior and Under 23 categories. Giles Drake was back between the tapes 2 weeks after his strong showing at the infamous 3 Peaks Cyclocross race where he placed 4th, a result he was frustrated by as a series of untimely punctures had impacted his race while leading on Whernside and looking good for the win. Meanwhile Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli’s very own Vet 40 World Champion would do his customary ‘double-header’ looking resplendent in his Rainbow jersey on Saturday in the Vet 40 race before donning his standard Wheelbase team jersey for the elite race on Sunday.
Lewis Craven would race twice over the weekend.
With the popularity of cyclocross racing in the UK growing each year we once again saw huge fields of racers in every age and gender category throughout an incredibly busy weekend of racing. Nowadays it’s not unusual to see whole families racing cross, with Mum, Dad and the kids all lining up in their respective races; their collective love for the sport shared within a super-social and safe environment. A great example of this shared passion comes in the form of our very own Wheelbase team racers Dave and Elsie Haygarth; Dave has been racing cross for decades and his family have always been in close attendance, now his Daughter Elsie can rival his own obsession with ‘cross and is gradually working her way through each age category as she continues to grow.
Elsie Haygarth has grown up racing cyclocross from an early age.
Dave Haygarth is one of the most passionate cyclocross advocates in the UK.
Elsie would ride strongly within the Youth Girls (U16) category in a fast and frenetic race made up of 48 girls all vying for position on a tight and technical course that saw fast laps thanks to the dry terrain; when the checkered flag was waved Elsie would cross the line in an excellent 27th position. The Vet 50 race category is stacked full of racing talent that can be traced back 30 years or more to the hey-day of cross country mountain biking in the UK. The results sheet typically reads like a who’s who of successful racers who have dominated the domestic calendar in MTB and Cyclocross races; the best example of this is good friend of Wheelbase, Nick Craig, riding for SCOTT Racing who took another fantastic win in a super-competitive field. Wheelbase’s Dave Haygarth raced well to take a very respectable 16th place, setting the scene for another successful season of national-level racing.
Elsie took an excellent 27th place in the Youth Girls (U16) category.
Dave had a strong showing in the V50 category, finishing in 16th place.
The Vet 40 race was another opportunity for our very own World Champion Lewis Craven to pull on his special Rainbow jersey and line up for a fast-paced battle with his fellow competitors. It’s well-known within the Wheelbase team that Lewis prefers his cyclocross races to take place in wetter, more muddy conditions; he tends to really find his racing sweet-spot later on in the season when conditions are much more grueling and his jedi-like bike-handling skills combined with his enviable power-output all but guarantee him the win. Despite the dry conditions Lewis would race strongly at the head of the race eventually taking an excellent 3rd place podium spot while still keeping half an eye on the elite race still to come on the Sunday.
In his first race of the weekend Lewis Craven got to wear his Vet 40 World Champion rainbow jersey.
Lewis prefers wetter, more muddy conditions but still took an excellent 3rd place in the V40 race.
Fast forward to the 2nd day of competition and Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli would field 5 riders in the biggest race of the weekend; the elite race saw last year’s revelation Rory McGuire line up alongside seasoned campaigners Giles Drake and Lewis Craven along with Flynn Gregory who showed real promise last year and Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli’s newest recruit Callum Laborde, a talented young racer who has competed overseas for Team GB.
Callum Laborde is Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli’s newest recruit and is a major cyclocross racing talent.
With dry weather and blue skies once again the technical course remained hard-packed, encouraging fast-paced racing from the start. Rory’s high overall placing at the end of last season meant he was gridded on the front row and was able to take his customary fast start before beginning to jostle with the very best racers in a field packed with racing talent. The front of the racing pack seems to be increasingly dominated by strong U23 riders with a similar look and feel to where we left of last year and Rory racing elbow to elbow with the likes of Toby Barnes and National Cyclocross Champion Thomas Mein. At the end of the race 21 year old Belgian Witse Meeuseen of the Pauwels Sauzen – Bingoal team would get the better of our top UK competitors with Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli’s Rory McGuire taking an excellent 5th place as well as finishing in 3rd place overall within the U23 category.
A front row gridding and Rory’s signature fast start saw him in the thick of the racing from the gun.
The dry racing conditions suited Rory’s powerful, dynamic style of racing.
Rory McGuire made short work of the barriers.
Rory was competing against some familiar faces at the head of the race, as the young U23 riders excelled in the dry conditions.
Rory would take to the podium as 3rd place overall in the Under 23 category.
A little further down the results we saw strong and consistent racing from Giles Drake and Lewis Craven who both finished in the top 20 taking 17th and 19th place respectively. After spending a good majority of the race riding together Giles joked at the finish that he had been part of a ‘Lewis Craven bike-handling skills workshop’ for the duration. Flynn Gregory wasn’t far behind the pair finishing a very creditable 21st while our new recruit Callum Laborde had a fantastic race, showing real strength to be consistently positioned in the top 10 before misfortune would strike on the last lap. A minor but ill-timed crash snapped his Shimano Di2 gear shifter leaving his bike unrideable, however a quick run to the pits ahead of him saw him jump on his spare bike to eventually take 29th  place. His frustration after the race was understandable and he’s now itching to show us what he can do when luck is on his side.
Giles Drake was back in action, racing strongly in the top 20 of the Elite race.
Lewis was back in his standard Wheelbase race kit for Sunday’s Elite race.
Flynn Gregory pretty much picked up from where he left off last season and was racing strongly throughout the race.
Giles found himself riding the majority of the Elite race with teammate Lewis Craven and enjoyed the impromptu skills masterclass.
Callum Laborde had an impressive debut race for Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli.
With a solid result under his belt Giles Drake is ready for another consistent cyclocross season.
Callum Laborde suffered some misfortune towards the end of the race but is already ambitious for round 2.
Well done to all of our Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli team riders for a great showing at this first round of the National Trophy Cyclocross Series. A massive thanks to all of our team helpers behind the scenes who worked hard before, during and after the races to make sure each rider was able to focus solely on the racing. The team now head to Falkirk in Scotland for round 2 of the Trophy series; will Rory McGuire’s ‘home race’ spur him on to take the win? We’ll have to wait and see!..
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Check out this hot-looking gravel bike from TREK! The Checkpoint SL 6 eTap, made from lightweight 500 Series OCLV carbon fibre, boasts TREK’s popular IsoSpeed decoupler for enhanced comfort in the saddle and a super-aero frame featuring truncated tube-profiling and a cleverly integrated cockpit with internal cable routing. Yes, the front of the bike takes a lot of its inspiration from TREK’S lightweight and aerodynamic road-going model, the Emonda, for a gravel bike that’s built ready to race over long distances while being as aerodynamically efficient as possible.
TREK are not the first to go down the aero-gravel path as part of product development and their reasons are simple – as riders continue to push the boundaries of gravel racing and we see speeds increasing it’s fair to say that every little aero detail and their potential benefits are quickly multiplied over the type of longer distances we’re now seeing in the most challenging gravel events.
Constructed from 500 Series OCLV carbon and featuring their distinctive IsoSpeed decoupler the Checkpoint SL6 is fast AND comfortable.
Is a gravel bike like this solely reserved for race day? Well, no, while it’s clear that the Checkpoint SL 6 eTap promises free speed thanks to its aero-profile TREK have also ensured that this a fun and agile gravel bike that comes to life when the tracks and trails become more technical. Compared with the previous-generation Checkpoint this latest iteration features more progressive frame and fork geometry, with a longer front centre and a slacker head angle, helping to keep the bike stable at high speeds while a shorter stem helps keep steering nimble and responsive.
The versatile Checkpoint SL6 is a super-fast and efficient gravel bike built to race, but will also handle the rigours of bike-packing duties.
The Checkpoint SL 6 eTap is constructed from TREK’s own superlight 500 Series OCLV carbon fibre in a sophisticated construction process which, thanks to a clever carbon-layup, means that the frame is stiff and responsive where it needs to be while remaining more compliant in key areas to provide a more forgiving ride. So while the Checkpoint SL 6 looks slick and aero it’s not at the expense of the comfort and durability required over long off-road distances.
Trek’s own grade of 500 Series OCLV carbon has been used in a sophisticated construction process, producing a bike that can hold speed without beating you up.
You’re probably already familiar with TREK’s IsoSpeed decoupler, seen on their Domane endurance road bike, Boone cyclocross bike, Procaliber mountain bike and even the Madone, TREK’s super-aero road bike. There’s also been numerous iterations of IsoSpeed in recent years depending on the model of bike, but regardless, it features here on the Checkpoint in its original format. The TREK Checkpoint SL 6 IsoSpeed decoupler enhances the compliancy of the carbon fibre frame by amplifying the amount of flex at the junction between the seat tube and the rest of the frame. When IsoSpeed is paired with the clever carbon fibre layup in the construction of the frame this portion of the chassis flexes vertically to take the sting out of the trail when you’re in the saddle while remaining laterally stiff for a super-responsive frame when you put the power down to sprint out of the saddle.
Designed to isolate you from rough terrain, we’ve seen Trek’s IsoSpeed decoupler on a wide range of Trek bikes and including one on the Checkpoint gravel bike was a no-brainer.
It’s not just about Isospeed; with clever carbon layup in the construction process and some sophisticated tube profiling the whole of the Checkpoint’s chassis plays an important role in providing in-the-saddle comfort without compromising pedalling efficiency.
Aero is everything; even within gravel racing it’s a legit consideration. Trek have sculpted the front of the Checkpoint to cut through the air more efficiently.
Despite the bike clearly leaning towards the racier end of the gravel bike market, with its aero profiling and integrated cockpit, the Checkpoint SL 6 has also been configured to be as versatile and practical as possible when it comes to carrying loads on longer rides or multi-day bikepacking adventures. There’s mounts for mudguards, a top tube pack, frame bag and front and rear racks.
Internally routed cables and an almost seamless transition between headset, headtube and fork means a more aero cockpit and faster overall times.Â
There’s another brilliant new feature, borrowed from some of Trek’s mountain bike models including the Fuel EX and Slash, a clever in-tube storage system making it easy to carry a multitool, spare inner tubes or even a small pack-down waterproof to add a little more security and peace of mind to your rides without unnecessarily cluttering up the outside of your bike. This is a real plus if you’re racing high-speed gravel events on the Checkpoint SL 6 where every little aero advantage is a serious consideration.
Trek’s inclusion of a downtube storage chamber allows you to stash tools, innertubes or snacks in the frame, helping to keep things a little more aero.
Trek’s downtube storage chamber includes a small storage bag that fits neatly in the cavity and prevents unwanted rattling.
The TREK Checkpoint SL 6 comes spec’d with a brilliantly functional 1X drivetrain, consisting of a single chainring upfront combined with a wide-ratio rear cassette, providing a large spread of gears while remaining simple and less prone to mechanical issues by eliminating a second chainring and a front derailleur. This simple drivetrain suits the unpredictable nature of gravel riding, where grit, grime (and inevitably mud in the U.K.) are all factors that can impact the efficiency of your bike.
TREK have chosen SRAM’s third-tier electronic, wireless groupset ‘Rival’ to make up the Checkpoint’s 1X drivetrain. For those of you unfamiliar with SRAM’s groupset hierarchy this (previously mechanical, now electronic) groupset sits as their third-tier offering under SRAM Red eTap AXS at the top of the tree with SRAM Force eTap AXS sitting as second tier. If you’re more familiar with Shimano componentry then think of Rival’s equivalent as Shimano’s 105 Di2 electronic groupset offering.
It’s worth noting too that while SRAM Rival eTap AXS may be described as ‘third tier’ it consists of a straight transfer of technology from the SRAM Red and Force eTap AXS groupsets with absolutely NO functional compromises in terms of how this wireless electronic configuration operates and performs. That’s the beauty of a fully digital system; the high-quality performance can be directly replicated; the only difference is the materials that the components are made of and consequently the overall weight of the drivetrain, which is slightly higher.
Trek have spec’d the Checkpoint SL6 with SRAM’s cutting-edge Rival eTap AXS wireless groupset.
Needless to say each gear change is completely precise thanks to its digital format, with the wireless shifter consistently activating the Rival eTap AXS rear derailleur, powered by a tiny internal motor. The rear derailleur includes a clutch mechanism to help keep the chain tight and prevent it unshipping from the front chainring over rough ground and the whole system holds up really well to the sort of conditions encountered when riding hard off-road. TREK have spec’d a 12-speed SRAM XG rear cassette with a huge spread of gears from a tiny 10T cog right up to a huge 44T so you’ll always be able to find just the right gear to overcome any terrain.
The electronic 12-speed Rival eTap AXS rear derailleur’s gear selections are made with flawless digital precision.
Another key factor to the off-road reliability of the SRAM Rival eTap AXS drivetrain is the simple 40T single chainring with alternate narrow/wide chainring tooth profiling designed to help keep the chain securely located. You’ll have no-doubt noticed the unique flat-topped chain too; this configuration does two things – it adds some additional strength to this particularly narrow 12-speed chain and it also helps keep it stay securely located in its path through the rear derailleur and around the front chainring.
A simple one-by drivetrain with a 40T chainring upfront is brilliantly functional and performs well in all riding conditions.
The new Sram Rival eTap AXS gear and hydraulic brake levers look great, are ergonomic and are noticeably more compact than their more expensive SRAM Red and Force cousins, albeit slightly heavier. They feel great in your hands and you can even fine-tune the fit by adjusting the reach of the lever, enabling you to match them to your hand size for enhanced comfort and control.
Clean, compact and ergonomic SRAM Rival 12-speed shifters send a wireless signal to the rear derailleur, with gear changes being instant.
The SRAM Rival hydraulic brake calipers combined with those ergonomic hydraulic brake levers provide powerful, easy-to-modulate braking which stays consistent in all weathers and in all riding conditions. The 160mm SRAM Paceline rotors work brilliantly with the Rival calipers to scrub off speed quickly and effectively when you’re descending at speed on loose, unpredictable off-road terrain.
Despite their neat, compact looks the SRAM Rival eTap AXS HRD hydraulic disc brake calipers are particularly powerful.
Tyre clearance on a gravel bike can be a deal-maker or a deal-breaker. Thankfully TREK have you covered with a maximum tyre width of 45mm on a 700c wheel which will enhance your comfort and control when you’re really pushing the limits off-road, while that clever frame and fork configuration including a dropped chain stay on the drive side helps to prevent any potential mud build up on wet off-road rides. The Checkpoint SL 6 comes spec’d with a pair of Bontrager Paradigm Comp 25 tubeless-ready wheels fitted with slightly narrower 40mm Bontrager GR1 Team Issue tubeless-ready tyres, another hint towards how TREK see this aero gravel bike being raced.
40mm wide Bontrager GR1 Team Issue gravel tyres roll fast but provide ample grip.
The TREK Checkpoint SL 6 gravel bike, constructed from superlight OCLV carbon fibre and boasting a super-slippery aerodynamic silhouette with an integrated cockpit screams out free speed. As gravel racing gets more and more competitive and the smallest differences in aerodynamic efficiency multiply over the longer distances of a typical gravel race a bike like the Checkpoint is ready to excel. Look beyond that speedy chassis though and you’ll find a versatile gravel bike featuring some clever engineering which greatly enhances your comfort during long hours spent in the saddle; TREK’s IsoSpeed decoupler plays an important roll in ironing out rough terrain without compromising stiffness and responsiveness when you put the power down. With clearance for up to 45mm gravel tyres and plenty of bolt-on-bosses peppered throughout the frame and fork the Checkpoint SL 6 can be ridden hard off-road on more playful single track terrain or loaded up with bike-packing luggage and ridden out into the wilderness for a multi-day adventure.
The Trek Checkpoint SL6 eTap is a super-aero carbon fibre gravel bike ready for racing and long-distance adventures.
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Join Wheelbase Lake District for an exciting evening of head-to-head racing on the latest Tacx smart indoor trainers and smart bikes at the New Union Pub in Kendal.
Teams of 3 will compete for great prizes from Garmin Tacx and Wheelbase with fast, frenetic indoor racing accompanied by fine beer and live music.
MASSIVE chapeau! To Andy Cunningham from Wheelbase for taking the WIN at the legendary The Romney’s Kendal Mint Cake Struggle Hill Climb.
Andy, who works at our Wheelbase Yorkshire store, slipped over the border into Cumbria to conquer the unrelenting gradients of the Struggle in a winning time of 13.16.7 This massively popular hill climb attracts a big field of riders looking to test themselves on this iconic climb along with an enthusiastic crowd of road side supporters.
Huge crowds cheered Andy on as he hit the steepest gradients of the Struggle.
Andy rode the infamous Struggle climb blind on Sunday, having never ridden the climb before, so his was all the more remarkable considering he didn’t know what was coming and had no idea how to pace the climb which constantly changes in gradient.
Amazingly Andy took the win despite riding the climb blind; he’s already confident that he can beat his time now he knows the course.
Next year’s National Hill Climb Championships is due to take place on this iconic climb and Wheelbase are excited to see what Andy and his Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli teammates can do in the UK’s biggest hill climb race of the season. Now that Andy has a clearer idea of how the climb rides he is confident he can knock a significant chunk of time of his winning time from this year.
The Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli team will be back in force next season for the National Hill climb Championships, taking place on the Struggle.
This special event is organised by NHS paramedic Jack Talbot and it does a great job of raising money for the Great North Air Ambulance with the 2022 edition already raising well over £2K
Congratulations to everyone who took part!
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Sunday the 25th of September saw the triumphant return of the unique racing spectacle that is the 3 Peaks Cyclocross race! The 58th edition of the race took place on a relatively calm day, with light winds and just a little light drizzle on the 3rd and final peak of Pen-Y-Ghent around midday. After a brief hiatus due to Covid it was fantastic to see lots of familiar faces returning to the race along with plenty of first time competitors all lining up at Helwith Bridge to take the start just after 9.30am. Waiting ahead of them was a testing 38 mile loop, with 20 miles off-road and 18 miles on-road as well as 5,000 feet of climbing some of which is completely unrideable, as racers summit the 3 peaks of Ingleborough, Whernside and finally Pen-Y-Ghent.
Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli were there in numbers to show themselves at the sharp end of the race and went into this year’s edition with high hopes for their racers, particularly Giles Drake who has continually shown himself to have the potential to take the win in recent years. Coming into the event with great form and with even more focus on the event in his training Giles couldn’t have been better prepared for the Peaks. With a well-organised support crew and some of the very best equipment at his disposal, including his Cannondale SuperSix EVO CX team bikes the only potential fly in the ointment was lady luck. A podium place in 2018 and an unfortunate navigational error early in the 2019 edition had left Giles hungry for success in 2022 and we all went into this race excited for what the outcome could be.
As the front of the race hit the infamous slopes of Simon Fell Rob Jebb and Giles Drake were already pulling away from the rest of the field.
Lining up alongside Giles as part of the Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli team was experienced racer and current V40 World Cyclocross Champion Lewis Craven. Lewis has also tasted success at the 3 Peaks in previous years, having already raced this unique event 13 times before as well as taking a podium place in the past. Seeing Lewis race in the distinctive World Champion’s Rainbow jersey would be particularly special and we were confident that barring any mishaps Lewis would be towards the front of the race.
Wheelbase’s Lewis Craven, the current V40 World Cyclocross Champion quickly established himself in the top 20 riders up Simon Fell.
Wheelbase’s Olli Dawson took an impressive 3rd place at the UK’s toughest Sportive, the Fred Whitton Challenge earlier in the year behind Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli teammates Giles Drake and Tom Merry so we knew he had the potential to deliver at the 3 Peaks; a super-strong rider on the road who also has jedi-like bike handling skills off-road Olli held a lot of promise going into this year’s Peaks which would be his second attempt at a high placing.
In only his 2nd attempt at the 3 Peaks Wheelbase’s Olli Dawson was right at the sharp end of the race from the very beginning.
Wheelbase’s Dave Haygarth was lining up in Helwith Bridge for the 22nd time! A true veteran of the race Dave probably has more enthusiasm for the 3 Peaks Cyclocross than any other rider. It’s common knowledge amongst the racing fraternity that the 3 Peaks has to be learnt over time and there’s been some hard lessons along the way including the odd broken collarbone for Dave. It could be called the school of hard knocks, but racers like Dave Haygarth, Lewis Craven, Rob Jebb, Paul Oldham and Nick Craig can all claim to have done their homework, carrying an encyclopaedic knowledge of nearly every single metre of the 38 mile course.
Despite feeling a little under the weather Dave Haygarth’s enthusiasm could not be dampened, as he took on his 22nd edition of the 3 Peaks.
To capture this amazing a race I firstly positioned myself on the precariously steep slopes of Simon Fell along with our talented photographer James Vincent and brilliant videographer Dave MacFarlane. After the fast-moving peloton of riders had completed the first 3 mile stretch of road they swung off onto the first stretch of grass and open moorland with the infamous, near-vertical gradient directly ahead of them. As the pack thinned out and riders came into clear view it was obvious that there were already two racers pulling away from the group; multiple 3 Peaks Cyclocross winner Rob Jebb had the lead but Giles was directly on his heels and holding pace as they passed us breathing hard but completely focused on the task ahead of them.
Only a couple of places behind was Wheelbase’s Olli Dawson who was clearly feeling strong and displaying an obvious determination to keep the leaders in view as he crested the steepest portion of Simon Fell before taking on the long, exposed plateau on the top of Ingleborough. Lewis Craven passed us shortly after looking comfortable and in good spirits within the top 20 and having enough energy to join in on some hill-side banter with UK mountain bike legend and former 3 Peaks winner Nick Craig who was happily updating us on racing conditions as he negotiated the steepest gradient of the entire route. Further down the fell Dave Haygarth came into view, his distinct silhouette instantly recognisable as his long legs levered him up the hill; it would come to light after the race that Dave had been a little unwell going into the 3 Peaks and this was affecting his ability to hold the sort of pace he typically carries uphill.
The steep gradient of Simon Fell is something to behold. Giles Drake successfully kept pace with fell running specialist Rob Jebb.
I’ve eluded to this already, but it can’t be understated, luck nearly always plays a roll in the outcome of the 3 Peaks. Despite all the meticulous pre-race training and preparation along with all of the equipment-tuning and strategizing of your support team things can and do go wrong very quickly. The 3 Peaks asks a lot from cyclocross bikes that were never designed to handle the sort of terrain encountered in this slightly ridiculous race. Gearing and braking options are keenly debated beforehand but there’s one aspect of bike equipment that’s discussed more than any other – tyre choice and setup. The unforgiving rocky tracks wreak havoc on thin, fragile 35mm cross tyres forcing riders to finesse their bikes downhill as effectively as they can, balancing the benefits of a speedy descent with the ever-present risk of flatting a trye.
Wheelbase’s Giles Drake incurred a slow puncture coming down the first descent down Ingleborough, but thanks to the modern tubeless tyre set-up with sealant inside this one sealed itself and helped Drake to chase down Rob Jebb on the long valley road before starting the arduous climb of Whernside. Waiting at the bottom of the long Whernside descent, stood next to the iconic Ribblehead Viaduct we listened to the race announcer for updates on who had scaled the 2nd peak first and were overjoyed to hear the Giles had in fact gained the lead along the exposed plateau at the top before the descent back down to civilisation.
Shortly after, it became clear that something had gone seriously wrong as Rob Jebb came into view alone, dropping down to the feed station alongside the viaduct looking focused on putting as much time into the chasers as possible along the next road section. An unfortunate puncture on the descent had seen Giles’ advantage reversed in the time it takes for a cross tyre to eject its air and now he was tasked with chasing alone of the fast road down to the base of Pen-Y-Ghent.
After leading the race on the top of Whernside Giles Drake succumbed to a puncture on the descent, leaving him to chase the leaders alone.Â
Not long after Olli Dawson arrived at the same spot with a rear wheel puncture and had to quickly seek assistance from his support crew to do a rapid wheel change to prevent him losing too many places. The young rider remained as composed as possible and was soon sprinting back up the remaining gravel track and onto the smooth tarmac for a brief respite before taking on the 3rd and final peak of Pen-Y-Ghent. Next up was our very own World Champ Lewis Craven who was just quietly getting on with the race, riding strongly where he could, conserving energy on the running sections and gaining significant chunks of time by throwing his bike down the descents with the sort of bike handling skills he’s developed over years of riding this unforgiving course.
Wheelbase’s Olli Dawson incurred a puncture on the way down off Whernside, but remained composed enough to save his race.
The effort is obvious for all to see as Olli begins the chase back towards the very front of the race.
With 13 editions already under his belt Lewis Craven has all of the experience required to put together a strong result at the 3 Peaks.
Resplendent in his V40 World Cyclocross Champion jersey Lewis Craven passed Ribblehead Viaduct ready to make short work of the road section to Pen-Y-Ghent.
At the front of the race Giles had put the hammer down and had amazingly clawed his way back to 2nd place behind a charging Rob Jebb. Pen-Y-Ghent is a little different to its two companion peaks in that riders climb and descend on the same track; this adds a little more chaos to an already frenetic race with the leading riders scaling the top and turning to descend back down as the majority of competitors are still at the foothills, just beginning their ascent. Throw in packs of enthusiastic spectators, family, friends and support crews all along the track and it all gets a bit unpredictable when it comes to line choice. It’s safe to say that with a large portion of the climb up being rideable, racers who have dosed their efforts to this point can make real gains here, however, switch off mentally on the way down and start thinking about the finishing line too soon and you’ll come unstuck.
Descending off the final peak of Pen-Y-Ghent Olli could begin to enjoy his high finishing position of 10th place. A fantastic result!
Unfortunately Giles suffered ANOTHER puncture of Pen-Y-Ghent pushing him back from his hard-earned 2nd position back to 4th place which he would then hold to the line. A little further back and Olli Dawson was showing his talent for descending more than matched his strength pedalling uphill; he would soon be drifting over the loose pebbled section of track at the bottom of Pen-Y-Ghent and back onto the tarmac for a strong ride back to Helwith Bridge to take a brilliant 10th place overall. Lewis always enjoys the descent off the third and final peak and cruised down the fast, tight track and back along the road to cross the line in 15th position – another strong showing from this 3 Peaks veteran. Dave Haygarth was still feeling under the weather and lacking power on the pedalling sections, but was happily picking off riders on the descents where his ’22 rides and counting’ home advantage really came into play.
Lewis remained calm and composed throughout this unpredictable race and came away with another great result of 15th place.
All credit to Giles Drake, despite the obvious frustration of having his 3 Peaks race outcome affected yet again by an unwelcome slice of bad luck he quickly composed himself after the race and was philosophical about what could have been; taking his strong performance on the bike (punctures aside) as a sign that the win will eventually come. Rob Jebb’s 2022 win proves that longevity is key in this unique race. That’s no coincidence; it’s down to the fact that racing the Peaks to win is a real art that needs to be refined offer the years. Giles has time on his side and will be back next rear to try again; that’s the beauty of this ridiculous race, you can’t help but keep coming back for more…
We’ll leave Giles to sign this one off…
The 3 Peaks Cycloross race will always be be an uphill battle and I fought with everything I had for the win but luck wasn’t on my side. I punctured, I led the race over Whernside, I punctured again, I clawed my way back to second, I punctured again, I finished 4th. Anyone who lives with me, trains with me, speaks to me about my racing and asks me what matters, they’ll always get ‘Peaks, it’s all about the Peaks’ as a response. So yes, it’s safe to say I’m gutted but I’m truly proud of how I rode/ran/crawled to 4th place. The battle isn’t just against the legend that is Rob Jebb or fellow podium finishers Will Weatherill and Dave Mirfield, it’s against the hills, the terrain & yourself. Thank you to everyone that supported or tolerated me these last few weeks, months, years… it’ll never change & I’m already counting the days till next year…
Despite the frustrations of multiple punctures, Giles was philosophical about his performance. Wheelbase are incredibly proud of his excellent 4th place finishing position!
Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli Team Results:
Giles Drake 4th
Olli Dawson 10th
Lewis Craven 15th
Dave Haygarth 84th
Ryan Middlemiss 201st
Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli’s Dave Haygarth is a true veteran of the 3 Peaks Cyclocross race; you can read his own account of his ride here:
Depending on how the race progresses and how much each racer’s luck holds it’s not unusual to see riders changing bikes at key parts of the course or as a speedy solution to an untimely puncture, rather than a more lengthy wheel change. Giles Drake started this year’s race on his favourite Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli team bike; the versatile Cannondale SuperSix EVO CX bike has been designed to handle traditional cyclocross racing AND fast-paced gravel racing with the bike’s geometry hitting a magic sweet spot that suits both styles of racing. This made choosing the SuperSix EVO CX as his ‘first bike’ a no-brainer for Giles.
It was great to see everyone back at the 3 Peaks Cyclocross race this year! James Vincent managed to capture the sheer grit, unpredictability and downright craziness of this unique race in a series of great photos; scroll through below….
