Author: John Dodgin

 

Launched today! The all-new Trek Fuel EXe marks a significant moment in the evolution of the e-mountain bike; to the casual track-side observer casting their eyes over this capable trail bike as it blasts past them it really wouldn’t be immediately clear that the Fuel EXe was an e-MTB at all! With a super-compact motor, sleek internal battery housed in a downtube that isn’t much larger than an acoustic bike and an almost inaudible motor they’d be excused for not even recognising the Fuel EXe as an e-mountain bike.

In a veritable sea of big, powerful e-MTBs boasting ever-increasingly powerful motors and longer-range motors it’s not unusual to see each major bike manufacturer topping out their e-MTB range with bikes featuring large 250Wh motors and 750Wh batteries. It’s been a bit of an arms race for the most efficient but powerful e-MTB available and consumers have been encouraged to seek out these sorts of stats when they’re considering joining the e-MTB revolution. There is, however, a movement that is starting to gain momentum where a small number of bicycle manufacturers are starting to re-think their e-MTB range, exploring who is using their current offering and identifying an extra cohort of riders looking for something a little different, leading to the development of a whole new sub-genre of e-mountain bike.

The Fuel EXe’s natural feeling pedal assist is so compact and quiet you might forget it’s there.

 

Trek have designed the all-new Fuel EXe to perfectly suit that new type of rider coming over to e-mountain bikes; riders looking for an e-MTB that handles more like their own acoustic bike who want a more natural-feeling form of pedal-assistance that doesn’t dominate their riding experience but does give them just the right amount of help they need to climb and cover ground more efficiently.

One of the lightest eMTBs on the market the Fuel EXe handles more regular bike.

 

While most brands keep chasing more power, higher torque and bigger batteries, Trek have joined the small amount of forward-thinking manufacturers offering this new sort of e-MTB. Where they differ slightly to other brands, however, is the sheer amount of Fuel EXe options available; rather than offering one model with one spec Trek have launched the Fuel EXe as a small range of six bikes, reflecting their ability as the world’s most powerful bike brand to make this sort of important investment while also giving a strong indication of their belief in this new form of e-mountain bike.

At the heart of this new lightweight pedal-assist system is the compact motor from German robotics manufacturer TQ developed in partnership with Trek. The HPR 50 motor is considerably lighter, more compact and quieter than current e-MTB motors; using their patented pin ring transmission which eliminates the need for the sort of gears and belts seen in other e-MTB motors, the HPR 50 motor is super-stealthy both in terms of its looks and lack of audible noise when riding. That small motor has another advantage too; by being so compact it doesn’t interfere with the frame’s geometry or suspension configuration, meaning that Trek didn’t have to make any compromises to how they wanted to design the Fuel EXe. There’s a lot less overall weight at the bottom bracket too so the bike handles much more like your acoustic bike, particularly when you are throwing it around on downhill trails.

Blink and you’ll miss it. This compact motor, around the size of a coke can, doesn’t interfere with the suspension design or frame geometry.

 

The custom 360Wh internal battery is similarly sleek and compact, sitting within a downtube that boasts dimensions that wouldn’t be out of place on a conventional, non-motored mountain bike. The 360Wh battery provides around 4 hours of ride time and there’s the option to run an additional (sold separately) 160Wh Range Extender which fits in the Fuel EXe’s bottle cages and gives a 40% increase in range. Another key advantage to this new system is charge time; with the internal battery being fully rechargeable within just two hours. Charging typically takes place with the battery still inside the frame of the bike, however the battery can be removed fairly quickly and easily if you need to travel with your bike.

The internal 360Wh battery on the Fuel EXe charges while in the downtube, however the battery is removeable for charging off the bike.

 

The Fuel EXe’s TQ HPR 50 motor features 3 different assist modes which are selected through a simple toggle button fitted to the left side of the handlebars. Keeping things simple and stripped back Trek have avoided he temptation to fit a large display unit to the bars or stem and instead have integrated a small LED display into the top tube of the carbon frame. This display will help you keep track of battery range and track which mode you’re riding in. This sophisticated e-MTB can be fine-tuned to suit you, your riding style and/or the terrain you typically ride; with Trek’s Central App on your Smartphone you’ll be able to customise motor tuning, activity tracking and real-time range calculations amongst other useful functions.

A simple, stripped-back toggle switch lets you quickly select one of the three motor modes.

 

The complete range of Fuel EXe bikes feature the same lightweight but durable OCLV Mountain Carbon frame boasting 140mm of rear wheel travel paired with a 150mm fork. Rolling on fast 29” wheels the Fuel EXe’s geometry is fine-tuned to excel downhill AND uphill, providing a stable, confidence-inspiring ride on steep, high-speed descents as well as an efficient pedalling position when you’re headed back up your favourite trail.

A cleverly-engineered LED display is integrated into the Fuel EXe’s top tube and gives you all the info you’ll need.

 

Use the Trek Central App to customise your Fuel EXe motor to suit your riding.

 

Fuel EXe Fast Facts

TQ Motor System

• TQ HPR50 motor uses harmonic drive transmission, reducing noise and taking up less space
• AXS-equipped models include TQ SmartBox with output ports for front light, rear light, aux 12 and electronic shifting
• TQ App includes motor behaviour customisation, range estimations, general e-system information, tyre and suspension pressure set-up recommendations, service reminders, navigation and range features as well as activity tracking
• Pairs with most Bluetooth or ANT+cycling computers
• Three assist modes
• Tuneable assist behaviour via the TQ App – tune max power, assist factor and pedal response
• Includes walk assist

Battery

• Battery weight 1,835 grams
• Battery chargeable on or off the bike
• Two hour battery charge time

Range Extender

• Extender weight 900 grams
• 40% additional charge
• One hour extender charge time

Frame 

• Compatible with one water bottle
• EXe’s come stock with 29” wheels, however you can run a 27.5” rear for mullet setup with Mino Link set in the high position

Parts Compatibility

• Maximum tyre size 29×2.5”
• Maximum fork length 160mm
• Dropper insertion S – 190mm, M – 225mm, L – 250mm
• Maximum chain ring size 34T
• Minimum chain ring size 30T
• 55mm chain line
• Standard ISIS crank interface for e-bikes
• All Fuel Exe models come setup tubeless with rim strips, valves and sealant already fitted
• e*Thirteen chain guard included with all models
• Maximum disc rotor size 203mm
• Shimano e-Rotor compatible
• SRAM Extension Cord powers AXS rear derailleur directly from Fuel EXe battery

Trek Fuel EXe 9.9 XX1 AXS RRP £13,250.00

Full Specification:

• Frame: OCLV Mountain Carbon, removable battery, internal routing, alloy rocker link, 34.9 mm seat tube, upper chain guide mount, 55 mm chainline, Mino Link, ABP, Boost148, UDH, 140 mm travel
• Motor: TQ-HPR50, 300 watt, 50 Nm
• Battery: TQ 360 Wh
• Controller: TQ Handlebar-mounted
• Display: TQ LED display with Bluetooth & ANT+ connectivity
• Rear Shock: RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate AirWiz, RCT2 damper, 205 mm x 60 mm
• Fork: RockShox Lyrik Ultimate, AirWiz, DebonAir spring, Charger 3 RC2 damper, 44 mm offset, Boost110, Maxle Stealth, 150 mm travel
• Rear Derailleur: SRAM XX1 Eagle AXS
• Shifter: SRAM Eagle AXS, wireless, 12-speed
• Cassette: SRAM Eagle XG-1299, 10-52, 12-speed
• Cranks: E*thirteen E*spec Race carbon, 165 mm length
• Chainring: 34T
• Brakes: SRAM Code RSC hydraulic disc
• Rotors: SRAM 6-bolt, 200 mm
• Front Wheel: Bontrager Line Pro 30, OCLV Mountain Carbon, Tubeless-Ready, 6-bolt, Boost110, 15 mm thru axle
• Rear Wheel: Bontrager Line Pro 30, OCLV Mountain Carbon, Tubeless Ready, Rapid Drive 108, 6-bolt, SRAM XD driver, Boost 148, 12 mm thru axle
• Front Tyre: Bontrager SE5 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Core Strength sidewalls, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 29×2.50″
• Rear Tyre: Bontrager SE5 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Core Strength sidewalls, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 29×2.50″
• Integrated Handlebar / Stem: (S) Bontrager RSL Integrated handlebar/stem, OCLV Carbon, 27.5 mm handlebar rise, 820 mm width, 0-degree stem rise, 35mm stem length. (M, L, XL) Bontrager RSL Integrated handlebar/stem, OCLV Carbon, 27.5 mm handlebar rise, 820 mm width, 0-degree stem rise, 45mm stem length
• Grips: Bontrager XR Trail Elite, nylon lock-on
• Saddle: Bontrager Arvada, austenite rails, 138 mm width
• Seatpost: (S) RockShox Reverb AXS, 100 mm travel, wireless, 34.9mm, 340 mm length. (M) RockShox Reverb AXS, 150mm travel, wireless, 34.9mm, 440mm length. (L, XL) RockShox Reverb AXS, 170mm travel, wireless, 34.9mm, 480mm length

 

Trek Fuel EXe 9.9 XTR RRP £11,500.00

Full Specification:

• Frame: OCLV Mountain Carbon, removable battery, internal routing, alloy rocker link, 34.9 mm seat tube, upper chain guide mount, 55 mm chainline, Mino Link, ABP, Boost148, UDH, 140 mm travel
• Motor: TQ-HPR50, 300 watt, 50 Nm
• Battery: TQ 360 Wh
• Controller: TQ Handlebar-mounted
• Display: TQ LED display with Bluetooth & ANT+ connectivity
• Rear Shock: RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate AirWiz, RCT2 damper, 205 mm x 60 mm
• Fork: RockShox Lyrik Ultimate, AirWiz, DebonAir spring, Charger 3 RC2 damper, 44 mm offset, Boost110, Maxle Stealth, 150 mm travel
• Rear Derailleur: Shimano XTR M9100, Shadow Plus, long cage, 51-T max cog
• Shifter: Shimano XTR M9100, 12-speed
• Cassette: Shimano XTR M9101, 10-51, 12-speed
• Cranks: E*thirteen E*spec Race carbon, 34T, 165 mm length
• Chainring: E*thirteen E*spec, 32T steel ring, 55 mm chain line
• Brakes: Shimano XTR M9120 4-piston hydraulic disc
• Rotors: Shimano RT86, 6-bolt, 180 mm
• Front Wheel: Bontrager Line Pro 30, OCLV Mountain Carbon, Tubeless-Ready, 6-bolt, Boost110, 15 mm thru axle
• Rear Wheel: Bontrager Line Pro 30, OCLV Mountain Carbon, Tubeless Ready, Rapid Drive 108, 6-bolt, Shimano MicroSpline freehub, Boost 148, 12 mm thru axle
• Front Tyre: Bontrager SE5 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Core Strength sidewalls, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 29×2.50″
• Rear Tyre: Bontrager SE5 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Core Strength sidewalls, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 29×2.50″
• Integrated Handlebar / Stem: Bontrager RSL Integrated handlebar/stem, OCLV Carbon, 27.5 mm handlebar rise, 820 mm width, 0-degree stem rise, 45mm stem length
• Grips: Bontrager XR Trail Elite, nylon lock-on
• Saddle: Bontrager Arvada Pro, carbon rails, 138 mm width
• Seatpost: (S) Bontrager Line Elite Dropper, 100 mm travel, MaxFlow, internal routing, 34.9 mm, 345 mm length (M) Bontrager Line Elite Dropper, 150 mm travel, MaxFlow, internal routing, 34.9 mm, 440 mm length (L) Bontrager Line Elite Dropper, 170 mm travel, MaxFlow, internal routing, 34.9 mm, 485 mm length (XL) Bontrager Line Elite Dropper, 200 mm travel, MaxFlow, internal routing, 34.9 mm, 550 mm length

 

Trek Fuel EXe 9.8 GX AXS RRP £10,300.00

Full Specification:

• Frame: OCLV Mountain Carbon, removable battery, internal routing, alloy rocker link, 34.9 mm seat tube, upper chain guide mount, 55 mm chainline, Mino Link, ABP, Boost148, UDH, 140 mm travel
• Motor: TQ-HPR50, 300 watt, 50 Nm
• Battery: TQ 360 Wh
• Controller: TQ Handlebar-mounted
• Display: TQ LED display with Bluetooth & ANT+ connectivity
• Rear Shock: RockShox Super Deluxe Select+ RT, 205 mm x 60 mm
• Fork: RockShox Lyrik Select+, DebonAir spring, Charger 2.1 RC damper, tapered steerer, 44 mm offset, Boost110, 15 mm Maxle Stealth, 150 mm travel
• Rear Derailleur: SRAM GX Eagle AXS
• Shifter: SRAM GX Eagle AXS, 12-speed
• Cassette: SRAM Eagle XG-1275, 10-52, 12-speed
• Cranks: E*thirteen E*spec Race carbon, 34T, 165 mm length
• Chainring: E*thirteen E*spec Plus, 34T
• Brakes: SRAM Code R hydraulic disc
• Rotors: SRAM 6-bolt, 200mm
• Front Wheel: Bontrager Line Elite 30, OCLV Mountain Carbon, Tubeless Ready, 6-bolt, Boost110, 15 mm thru axle
• Rear Wheel: Bontrager Line Elite 30, OCLV Mountain Carbon, Tubeless Ready, Rapid Drive 108, 6-bolt, SRAM XD driver, Boost 148, 12 mm thru axle
• Front Tyre: Bontrager SE5 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Core Strength sidewalls, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 29×2.50″
• Rear Tyre: Bontrager SE5 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Core Strength sidewalls, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 29×2.50″
• Integrated Handlebar / Stem: (S) Bontrager RSL Integrated handlebar/stem, OCLV Carbon, 27.5 mm handlebar rise, 820 mm width, 0-degree stem rise, 35mm stem length. (M, L, XL) Bontrager RSL Integrated handlebar/stem, OCLV Carbon, 27.5 mm handlebar rise, 820 mm width, 0-degree stem rise, 45mm stem length
• Grips: Bontrager XR Trail Elite, nylon lock-on
• Saddle: Bontrager Arvada, austenite rails, 138 mm width
• Seatpost: (S) Bontrager Line Elite Dropper, 100 mm travel, MaxFlow, internal routing, 34.9 mm, 345 mm length. (M) Bontrager Line Elite Dropper, 150 mm travel, MaxFlow, internal routing, 34.9 mm, 440 mm length. (L) Bontrager Line Elite Dropper, 170 mm travel, MaxFlow, internal routing, 34.9 mm, 485 mm length. (XL) Bontrager Line Elite Dropper, 200 mm travel, MaxFlow, internal routing, 34.9 mm, 550 mm length.

 

Trek Fuel EXe 9.8 XT RRP £9,050.00

Full Specification:

• Frame: OCLV Mountain Carbon, removable battery, internal routing, alloy rocker link, 34.9 mm seat tube, upper chain guide mount, 55 mm chainline, Mino Link, ABP, Boost148, UDH, 140 mm travel
• Motor: TQ-HPR50, 300 watt, 50 Nm
• Battery: TQ 360 Wh
• Controller: TQ Handlebar-mounted
• Display: TQ LED display with Bluetooth & ANT+ connectivity
• Rear Shock: RockShox Super Deluxe Select+ RT, 205 mm x 60 mm
• Fork: RockShox Lyrik Select+, DebonAir spring, Charger 2.1 RC damper, tapered steerer, 44 mm offset, Boost110, 15 mm Maxle Stealth, 150 mm travel
• Rear Derailleur: Shimano XT M8100, long cage
• Shifter: Shimano XT M8100, 12-speed
• Cassette: Shimano XT M8100, 10-51, 12-speed
• Cranks: E*thirteen E*spec Race carbon, 165 mm length
• Chainring: E*thirteen E*spec, 32T steel ring, 55 mm chain line
• Brakes: Shimano XT M8120 4-piston hydraulic disc
• Rotors: Shimano RT76, 6-bolt, 203mm
• Front Wheel: Bontrager Line Elite 30, OCLV Mountain Carbon, Tubeless Ready, 6-bolt, Boost110, 15 mm thru axle
• Rear Wheel: Bontrager Line Elite 30, OCLV Mountain Carbon, Tubeless Ready, Rapid Drive 108, 6-bolt, Shimano MicroSpline freehub, Boost 148, 12 mm thru axle
• Front Tyre: Bontrager SE5 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Core Strength sidewalls, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 29×2.50″
• Rear Tyre: Bontrager SE5 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Core Strength sidewalls, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 29×2.50″
• Integrated Handlebar / Stem: (S) Bontrager RSL Integrated handlebar/stem, OCLV Carbon, 27.5 mm handlebar rise, 820 mm width, 0-degree stem rise, 35mm stem length (M, L, XL) Bontrager RSL Integrated handlebar/stem, OCLV Carbon, 27.5 mm handlebar rise, 820 mm width, 0-degree stem rise, 45mm stem length
• Grips: Bontrager XR Trail Elite, nylon lock-on
• Saddle: Bontrager Arvada, austenite rails, 138 mm width
• Seatpost: (S) Bontrager Line Elite Dropper, 100 mm travel, MaxFlow, internal routing, 34.9 mm, 345 mm length. (M) Bontrager Line Elite Dropper, 150 mm travel, MaxFlow, internal routing, 34.9 mm, 440 mm length. (L) Bontrager Line Elite Dropper, 170 mm travel, MaxFlow, internal routing, 34.9 mm, 485 mm length. (XL) Bontrager Line Elite Dropper, 200 mm travel, MaxFlow, internal routing, 34.9 mm, 550 mm length

Trek Fuel EXe 9.7 RRP £7,650.00

Full Specification:

• Frame: OCLV Mountain Carbon, removable battery, internal routing, alloy rocker link, 34.9 mm seat tube, upper chain guide mount, 55 mm chainline, Mino Link, ABP, Boost148, UDH, 140 mm travel
• Motor: TQ-HPR50, 300 watt, 50 Nm
• Battery: TQ 360 Wh
• Controller: TQ Handlebar-mounted
• Display: TQ LED display with Bluetooth & ANT+ connectivity
• Rear Shock: Fox Performance Float X, 2-position damper, 205mm x 60mm
• Fork: Fox Rhythm 36, Float EVOL air spring, GRIP damper, tapered steerer, 44 mm offset, Boost110, 15 mm Kabolt axle, 150 mm travel
• Rear Derailleur: Shimano XT M8100, long cage
• Shifter: Shimano SLX M7100, 12-speed
• Cassette: Shimano SLX M7100, 10-51, 12-speed
• Cranks: E*thirteen E*spec Race alloy, 34T, 170 mm length
• Chainring: E*thirteen E*spec, 32T steel ring, 55 mm chain line
• Brakes: Shimano 4-piston hydraulic disc, M6100 lever, M6120 calliper
• Rotors: SRAM CenterLine, 6-bolt, round edge, 200mm
• Front Wheel: Bontrager Line Comp 30, Tubeless Ready, 6-bolt, Boost110, 15 mm thru axle
• Rear Wheel: Bontrager Line Comp 30, Tubeless-Ready, Rapid Drive 108, 6-bolt, Boost148, 12 mm thru axle
• Front Tyre: Bontrager XR5 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 29×2.50″
• Rear Tyre: Bontrager XR5 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 29×2.50″
• Handlebar: Bontrager Line, alloy, 35 mm, 27.5 mm rise, 780 mm width
• Stem: Bontrager Elite, 35 mm, 0-degree, 45 mm length
• Grips: Bontrager XR Trail Elite, nylon lock-on
• Saddle: Bontrager Arvada, austenite rails, 138 mm width
• Seatpost: (S) TranzX JD-YSP39, 100 mm travel, internal routing, 34.9 mm. (M) TranzX JD-YSP39, 150 mm travel, internal routing, 34.9 mm. (L, XL) TranzX JD-YSP39, 170 mm travel, internal routing, 34.9 mm

 

Trek Fuel EXe 9.5 RRP £5,750.00

Full Specification:

• Frame: OCLV Mountain Carbon, removable battery, internal routing, alloy rocker link, 34.9 mm seat tube, upper chain guide mount, 55 mm chainline, Mino Link, ABP, Boost148, UDH, 140 mm travel
• Motor: TQ-HPR50, 300 watt, 50 Nm
• Battery: TQ 360 Wh
• Controller: TQ Handlebar-mounted
• Display: TQ LED display with Bluetooth & ANT+ connectivity
• Rear Shock: RockShox Deluxe Select+ RT, 205 mm x 60 mm
• Fork: RockShox 35 Gold RL, DebonAir spring, Motion Control damper, lockout, tapered steerer, 44 mm offset, Boost110, 15 mm Maxle Stealth, 150 mm travel
• Rear Derailleur: Shimano Deore M6100, long cage
• Shifter: Shimano Deore M6100, 12-speed
• Cassette: Shimano 10-51, 12-speed
• Cranks: E*thirteen E*spec Plus, 165 mm length
• Chainring: E*thirteen E*spec, 32T steel ring, 55 mm chain line
• Brakes: Tektro HD-M745 4-piston hydraulic disc
• Rotors: Tektro, 6-bolt, 203mm
• Wheels: Hubs (F) Bontrager sealed bearing, alloy axle, 6-bolt, Boost110, 15 mm thru axle, (R) Bontrager alloy, sealed bearing, alloy axle, 6-bolt, Shimano 8/9/10 freehub, Boost148, 12 mm thru axle. Rims Alex MD35, tubeless compatible, 32-hole, 35 mm width, Presta valve
• Front Tyre: Bontrager XR5 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 29×2.50″
• Rear Tyre: Bontrager XR5 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 29×2.50″
• Handlebar: Bontrager Rhythm Comp, alloy, 31.8 mm, 15 mm rise, 750 mm width
• Stem: Bontrager alloy, 31.8 mm, Blendr-compatible, 7-degree, 50 mm length
• Grips: Bontrager XR Trail Comp, nylon lock-on
• Saddle: Bontrager Arvada, steel rails, 138 mm width
• Seatpost: (S) TranzX JD-YSI-22PLQ, 100 mm travel, internal routing, 34.9 mm, 346 mm length. (M) TranzX JD-YSI-22PLQ, 150 mm travel, internal routing, 34.9 mm, 454 mm length. (L, XL) TranzX JD-YSI-22PLQ, 170 mm travel, internal routing, 34.9 mm, 497 mm length

 

The Fuel EXe e-mtb joins a small but significant industry move towards a whole new genre of e-mountain bike – ‘e-MTB Lite’ if you will, and we like it! To see the biggest bike brand in the world playing a role in taking mountain biking to the next level, with their unique technology from that quiet-and-compact TQ transmission, is really exciting and indicates that this type of e-mountain bike is only going to become more popular and widespread.

Trek’s Fuel EXe marks a significant moment in the evolution of e-mountain bikes.

 

Written By Johnny Dodgin

All photos by Trek

 

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The Tour De Staveley made a triumphant return on Saturday the 9th of July under blue skies and blazing July sun following a two year break due to the pandemic. With a packed field of riders keen to explore the quiet lanes of the South Lakes this friendly event took in some challenging climbs with stunning views and was an opportunity for cyclists far and wide to come together and celebrate summer cycling in the sort of riding conditions we spend all winter dreaming about.

The large field of Tour De Staveley entrant enjoyed fantastic mid-summer weather.

 

Riders head out onto the hilly, challenging South Lakes roads.

 

This year was the 14th running of the Tour De Staveley and it offered two classic Lakeland routes to choose from, the full Tour De Staveley at 48.5 miles and Le Petit Tour at 28 miles, providing the perfect distance to suit all abilities of rider. Wheelbase’s own homage to the world’s most famous cycle race, Le Tour De France, our Lake District Sportive gave riders a chance to explore some of the best riding on offer and to socialise while enjoying a well-earned Tour De France themed meal at the finish served up by Wilf’s Cafe before catching all the action from the day’s Tour de France stage, playing on the big screen at Hawkshead Brewery.

The Gummers How climb was equal parts grueling and scenic with its stunning vista.

 

Trees in full leaf provided some much-appreciated shade.

 

Although the Tour De Staveley is run as a non-competitive event, with the main focus on enjoying a friendly and relaxed ride, we did throw in a spot-prize in the form of a Strava Timed Hill Climb challenge, with times recorded up the grueling climb of Tow Top Hill. Congratulations to our King and Queen of the mountains who will both be receiving Wheelbase Gift Vouchers for their efforts…

King of the Mountains: Laurie Lambeth 4.38

Queen of the Mountains: Helen Jackson 6.52

Laurie Lambeth took the King of the Mountains title.

 

Helen Jackson took the Queen of the Mountains title.

 

The Courses

Short course map: http://www.mapmyride.com/gb/kendal-eng/le-petit-tour-of-staveley-2014-short-route-190001754

Long course map: http://www.mapmyride.com/gb/windermere-eng/le-tour-de-staveley-2014-long-course-route-30757232

 

 

Riders arrived back at Wheelbase HQ in Staveley to enjoy a post-race get together.

 

A Tour De France-themed meal at Wilf’s café and live race coverage at Hawkshead Brewery made a great way to end the ride.

 

Click here to see the Tour De Staveley Facebook album by James Vincent

Click here for photos from our on course photographer Dave Bradshaw of Sport Sunday 

Gallery one – out bound

Gallery two – return

Timings from T2 Events here.

 

A HUGE thank you to everyone who attended and helped make the Tour De Staveley such an enjoyable day of cycling and socialising; thank you to our logistical partners Kendal Cycling Club for assisting in the smooth running of the event. All proceeds from the event will be donated to the Wheels for All charity; the Wheels for All initiative is a nationally recognised program that embraces all children and adults with disabilities and differing needs, to engage in a quality cycling activity. By using specially adapted cycles, the activities are both physically and mentally stimulating and above all fun for everyone involved.

Big thanks to Kendal Cycle Club Wheels for All and all the marshals and helpers – see you again in 2023! 

 

Written by Johnny Dodgin

Feature Photos by James Vincent

 

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Say hello to the all-new Cannondale Topstone Alloy gravel bike! The previous version of the Topstone Alloy has been a massively popular gravel bike here at Wheelbase, with the small range of alloy gravel bikes proving to be well-loved by a wide range of our customers thanks in most-part to their versatility, durability and relative affordability. We’ve seen a real boom in the use of gravel bikes in the UK and indeed, all around the world, with almost every major bike brand boasting them within their range of bikes and Cannondale have been at the forefront of this movement from the earliest days of gravel riding.

The first-generation Topstone Alloy was incredibly popular and the all-new model is ready to pick up where the original left off.

 

As you’ll probably know Cannondale recently launched their second-generation Topstone Carbon which featured multiple changes over the previous model, making the bike even more versatile than the original model thanks to changes in its geometry as well as increased tyre-clearance and a wide array of bolt-on-bosses that allowed you to fine-tune your Bikepacking setup to suit any gravel adventure. With this in mind it’s a fair assumption that the all-new Topstone Alloy would inherit some of these improvements, albeit at a more affordable price point…

There’s a number of significant changes to the new Topstone Alloy, making it even more versatile than its predecessor. 

 

The new Cannondale Topstone Alloy features a lightweight but durable chassis consisting of a SmartForm C2 Alloy frame and a compliant carbon fork that helps isolate you from rough surfaces and includes plenty of bolt-on-bosses for mudguards and/or Bikepacking luggage. Both the frame and fork includes the now-industry-standard 12×142 and 12×100 thru-axles and flat mounts for disc calipers; the frame features internal cable routing, a BSA threaded bottom bracket and a multitude of fender, bottle and luggage mounts. There’s an increase to tyre clearance on the new model too allowing you to run front and rear tyres up to 45mm wide.

The next-generation Topstone Alloy features an all-new carbon fork complete with multiple bolt-on-bosses.

 

When Cannondale launched the Carbon version of this bike in April this year we remarked at how the American bike brand had ensured they’d moved with the times, keeping up with how the gravel bike scene was continuing to evolve and diversify into sub-genres. We’ve seen other brands launch models that are suited to one specific type of gravel riding; for example carbon race machines, utilitarian Bikepacking wagons designed to take on arduous multi-day adventures or fun and agile bikes with relaxed angles and long-reach geometry designed to excel on tight singletrack. Cannondale instead opted to create one gravel bike that excelled in all scenarios and the new alloy version follows exactly the same tack; so when it comes to the new Topstone Alloy think fast, fun and utilitarian in equal measure.

Bikepacking, gravel racing or simply looning around the trails, the Cannondale Topstone Alloy can do it all with ease.

 

The new Topstone Alloy boasts Cannondale’s OutFront steering geometry which helps to give a confident, stable ride while remaining agile on the tighter stuff. An extra-long fork offset paired with a slack head angle helps to keep the steering light and lively while delivering confidence when you’re riding at full chat through the rough stuff. It’s light and fast enough to line up at any gravel race, regardless of distance or course profile, while those multiple bolt-on-bosses mean you can load this bike up in any way you like and head out on long cycle tours or mid-week sleep outs. Oh and this new version accepts an internally-routed 27.2 dropper seatpost, further adding to the bike’s capacity when your gravel riding gets really rowdy.

Changes to the geometry mean that this latest iteration of the Topstone Alloy is even more agile and confidence-inspiring to ride.

 

Full Specification:

• Frame: Lightweight SmartForm C2 Alloy, 12×142 thru-axle, tapered headtube, BSA threaded BBm flat mount disc, StraightShot internal cable routing, multiple gear/bottle mounts
• Fork: Topstone Carbon, 1-1/8″ to 1.5″ steerer, 55mm OutFront offset, flat mount disc, internal routing, 12×100 thru-axle, fender/gear mounts
• Headset: Integrated, 1-1/8″ – 1-1/2″
• Bottom Bracket: Shimano BBRS500
• Cassette: Shimano 105, 11-34, 11-Speed
• Rear Derailleur: Shimano GRX 810, Shadow RD+
• Front Derailleur: Shimano GRX 800, braze on
• Shifters: Shimano GRX 800, 11-Speed
• Chainset: Shimano GRX 600, 46/30T
• Chain: KMC X11, 11-34T, 11-Speed
• Brakes: Shimano GRX 800, 160/160mm RT54 Rotors
• Wheels: WTB KOM Light i23 TCS, 28h, Tubeless Ready, (F) Formula cartridge bearing, 12x100mm centerlock (R) Formula cartridge bearing, 12x142mm centerlock
• Tyres: WTB Riddler TCS Light, 700 x 37c, tubeless ready
• Handlebar: Cannondale 3, butted 6061 Alloy, 16 degree flare drop
• Handlebar Tape: Cannondale 3.5mm
• Stem: Cannondale 3, 6061 Alloy, 31.8 7°
• Saddle: Fizik Aliante Delta, S-Alloy rails
• Seatpost: Cannondale 3 6061 Alloy, 27.2 x 350mm

 

Full Specification:

• Frame: Lightweight SmartForm C2 Alloy, 12×142 thru-axle, tapered headtube, BSA threaded BBm flat mount disc, StraightShot internal cable routing, multiple gear/bottle mounts
• Fork: Topstone Carbon, 1-1/8″ to 1.5″ steerer, 55mm OutFront offset, flat mount disc, internal routing, 12×100 thru-axle, fender/gear mounts
• Headset: Integrated, 1-1/8″ – 1-1/2″
• Bottom Bracket: Shimano BBRS500
• Cassette: Shimano 105, 11-34, 11-speed
• Rear Derailleur: Shimano GRX 810, Shadow RD+
• Front Derailleur: Shimano GRX 800, braze-on
• Shifters: Shimano GRX 600, 11-Speed
• Chainset: Shimano GRX 600, 46/30
• Chain: KMC X11, 11-speed
• Brakes: Shimano GRX 400 hydraulic disc, 160/160mm RT54 rotors
• Wheels: WTB ST i23 TCS, 28h, tubeless ready, (F) Formula cartridge bearing, 12x100mm centerlock / (R) Formula cartridge bearing, 12x142mm centerlock Stainless Steel
• Tyres: WTB Riddler TCS Light, 700 x 37c, tubeless ready
• Handlebar: Cannondale 3, butted 6061 Alloy, 16 deg flare drop
• Handlebar Tape: Cannondale 3.5mm
• Stem: Cannondale 3, 6061 Alloy, 31.8, 7°
• Saddle: Fizik Aliante Delta, S-alloy rails
• Seatpost: Cannondale 3, 6061 Alloy, 27.2 x 350mm

 

Cannondale Topstone 2 RRP £1,800.00

Full Specification:

• Frame: Lightweight SmartForm C2 Alloy, 12×142 thru-axle, tapered headtube, BSA threaded BBm flat mount disc, StraightShot internal cable routing, multiple gear/bottle mounts
• Fork: Topstone Carbon, 1-1/8″ to 1.5″ steerer, 55mm OutFront offset, flat mount disc, internal routing, 12×100 thru-axle, fender/gear mounts
• Headset: Integrated, 1-1/8″ – 1-1/2″
• Bottom Bracket: FSA Cartridge
• Cassette: Shimano HG500, 11-34, 10-speed
• Rear Derailleur: Shimano GRX 400, Shadow RD+
• Front Derailleur: Shimano GRX 400, braze-on
• Shifters: Shimano GRX 400, 10-speed
• Chainset: FSA Omega AGX+ Alloy, 46/30
• Chain: KMC X10, 10-speed
• Brakes: Shimano GRX 400 hydraulic disc, 160/160mm RT54 rotors
• Wheels: WTB ST i23 TCS, 28h, tubeless ready, (F) Formula cartridge bearing, 12x100mm centerlock / (R) Formula cartridge bearing, 12x142mm centerlock Stainless Steel
• Tyres: WTB Riddler TCS Light, 700 x 37c, tubeless ready
• Handlebar: Cannondale 3, butted 6061 Alloy, 16 deg flare drop
• Handlebar Tape: Cannondale 3.5mm
• Stem: Cannondale 3, 6061 Alloy, 31.8, 7°
• Saddle: Fizik Aliante Delta, S-alloy rails
• Seatpost: Cannondale 3, 6061 Alloy, 27.2 x 350mm

 

Full Specification:

• Frame: Lightweight SmartForm C2 Alloy, 12×142 thru-axle, tapered headtube, BSA threaded BBm flat mount disc, StraightShot internal cable routing, multiple gear/bottle mounts
• Fork: Topstone Carbon, 1-1/8″ to 1.5″ steerer, 55mm OutFront offset, flat mount disc, internal routing, 12×100 thru-axle, fender/gear mounts
• Headset: Integrated, 1-1/8″ – 1-1/2″
• Bottom Bracket: Cartridge, square taper
• Cassette: Sunrace 11-34, 9-Speed
• Rear Derailleur: Shimano Sora GS, 9-Speed
• Front Derailleur: Shimano Sora GS
• Shifters: Shimano Sora, 9-speed
• Chainset: FSA Tempo Adventure, 46/30
• Chain: KMC Z9, 9-Speed
• Brakes: Promax Decoder R mechanical disc, 160/160mm rotors
• Wheels: GXD 1.0, 28h (F) Formula alloy, 12x100mm / (R) Formula alloy, 12x142mm, Stainless Steel
• Tyres: WTB Riddler Comp, 700 x 37c
• Handlebar: Cannondale 3, butted 6061 Alloy, 16 deg flare drop
• Handlebar Tape: Cannondale 3.5mm
• Stem: Cannondale 3, 6061 Alloy, 31.8, 7°
• Saddle: Fizik Aliante Delta, S-alloy rails
• Seatpost: Cannondale 4, 6061 Alloy, 27.2 x 350mm

 

Cannondale Topstone 4 RRP £1,200.00

Full Specification:

• Frame: Lightweight SmartForm C2 Alloy, 12×142 thru-axle, tapered headtube, BSA threaded BBm flat mount disc, StraightShot internal cable routing, multiple gear/bottle mounts
• Fork: Topstone Carbon, 1-1/8″ to 1.5″ steerer, 55mm OutFront offset, flat mount disc, internal routing, 12×100 thru-axle, fender/gear mounts
• Headset: Integrated, 1-1/8″ – 1-1/2″
• Bottom Bracket: Cartridge, square taper
• Cassette: microSHIFT, 11-48, 10-speed
• Rear Derailleur: microSHIFT Advent X
• Shifters: microSHIFT Advent X, 10-speed
• Chainset: Prowheel, Charm 40T
• Chain: KMC X10, 10-speed
• Brakes: Promax Render R mechanical disc, 160/160mm rotors
• Wheels: GXD 1.0, 28h, (F) Formula alloy, 12x100mm / (R) Formula alloy, 12x142mm, Stainless Steel
• Tyres: WTB Riddler Comp, 700 x 37c
• Handlebar: Cannondale 3, butted 6061 Alloy, 16 deg flare drop
• Handlebar Tape: Cannondale 3.5mm
• Stem: Cannondale 3, 6061 Alloy, 31.8, 7°
• Saddle: Cannondale Stage CX
• Seatpost: Cannondale 4, 6061 Alloy, 27.2 x 350mm

 

Cannondale Topstone Alloy Geometry

 

One of the main reasons the previous-generation Topstone Alloy was so popular was down to its relatively affordable price point. The range meets the needs of riders coming into gravel riding from road cycling OR mountain biking, with an easy to justify price for an additional bike in their fleet, capable of opening up their riding even more. We see mountain bikers coming into gravel because they want to leave the car at home and head out straight from the front door, linking stretches of road and off-road tracks together. Likewise we see roadies getting into gravel as an alternative to riding exclusively on the road; getting away from busy traffic and exploring more unpredictable routes or simply for use as a durable and versatile winter bike option. Factor in that this sort of bike can be used as a daily commuter during the week and it’s really hard to argue against having a Cannondale Topstone Alloy at your disposal.

The all-new Cannondale Topstone Alloy is a durable, versatile and affordable gravel bike option.

 

Written by Johnny Dodgin

All photos by Cannondale

 

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Following hot on the heels of Friday night’s unpredictable, chaotic National Circuit Race in Ilkley, the home of our Wheelbase Yorkshire store, our young Wheelbase Cabetch Castelli team were back in action at Round 2 of the National Road Series. The Stockton Grand Prix has been a popular race in the demanding series for a number of years; as part of the weekend-long Stockton Cycling Festival the men’s race is the main headliner of a series of cycling events and races throughout the weekend, aimed at getting every age and gender out on their bikes in and around the cycling-friendly town of Stockton-on-Tees.

We recently opened a flagship Wheelbase store within Stockton-on-Tee’s Go Outdoors superstore and this race gave us an opportunity to invite the Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli team to meet the staff and check out our all-new shopping experience. With a late start of 1.00pm for the men’s race there was plenty of time for the team to relax and fuel up on some great coffee while our small Wheelbase media team took the opportunity to film the riders in the new store before doing some short pre-race interviews to glean each of their hopes and aspirations for the upcoming race.

Watch all the action from the Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli team at the Stockton GP

 

The Stockton Grand Prix cannot be underestimated, with some pretty terrifying stats for the casual non-elite cyclist observing from the roadside. The race takes place on country roads just north of Stockton town centre and includes a mix of wide, fast roads combined with tighter lanes that include punchy climbs and sweeping turns where tree lined verges throw a good amount of shade onto some of the rougher road sections. The total distance of the race was 111 miles or 178.6km with 80 miles of the race being played out on the 8.4 mile circuit outside of the town; at the 80 mile mark the racers return to the town centre of Stockton-on-Tees to take on a further 6 laps of a 4 mile circuit around town. That testing overall distance and the contrasting mix of the larger loop combined with the smaller town-centre loop with more of a circuit-race feel makes for a very difficult race to win, requiring riders to change tactics late in the race and endure a really difficult final hour of racing just when their bodies are beginning to really fatigue.

 

Just like the Ilkley circuit race on Friday, the first difficulty for Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli was fielding an effective team for this demanding national-level race; with illness and injury plaguing the team in the build up to the Stockton GP it was going to be a case of some of our younger, less experienced riders stepping up and taking responsibility to be at the sharp end of the race and influence the proceedings as much as they could. We took three riders into the race – Callum Thornley, Matt Fox and Fraser Martin, with a couple of other riders from our squad having to miss the Stockton GP at the last minute. It’s a credit to the young trio that they didn’t panic and stayed cool and focused in the build up to the race.

In the pre-race briefing Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli team manager Stu Reid encouraged Fraser to contribute early on to help Callum and Matt stay at the front of the race and ensure that they didn’t miss any significant moves. With Fraser’s form a little low, he was unsure he would be able to contribute late in the race and so the tactic to work hard at the start of the race on behalf of his teammates made sense to the reduced squad. Matt Fox, at the age of just 19 continues to prove himself as a punchy rider with a mean sprint and a mature head which guides him to exactly where he needs to be in any road racing scenario; the lengthy nature of the Stockton GP would prove to be a real test of his abilities and racing experience. Callum Thornley, on a fantastic run of results, continues to show that he has tapped into a rich vein of form and at the young age of 18 is still unsure of how long he can continue before he starts to fade. It was agreed that, for now, he should race as hard as he has been, as both he and the team staff continue to learn just what he’s capable of; as the race progressed we were not to be disappointed.

Just as the race rolled out of Stockton-on-Tees dark clouds started to loom overhead and the afternoon’s action would see intermittent cloud bursts of torrential rain, eventually making the roads wet on the entire circuit. Fresh rain fall on previously dry roads, combined with stretches in tree-lined shade and tight turns, along with a large peloton made up of riders ready to influence the race, created dangerous conditions and we saw some inevitable spills as the race progressed. It’s testament to just how hard the Stockton GP is that riders began fading from the back of the bunch as speeds were increased and the larger pro teams continued to push the pace.

Riding conditions proved difficult with torrential rain affecting rider safety at key sections of the course.  Photo: Will Palmer / SWpix

 

Upfront a small group of 7 riders jumped away to establish a gap; at this point Callum who was riding attentively on the front of the peloton spotted that Finn Crockett (who raced for Wheelbase last year) had made that lead group and knowing that this meant the breakaway may well stick, Callum wisely jumped across the gap to establish himself in the break. As the race quickly progressed from we watched the gap stretch out to over a minute and our Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli team car was able to join the back of the break ready to feed Callum and provide mechanical assistance if it was required. This gave me (Johnny – your feature writer) and Dave Macfarlane our filmographer, a rider’s-eye view of the action from the car as excitement built and we all began to hope that Callum could hold on until the finishing circuit and influence the outcome of the race.

Callum Thornley (back rider) made a significant contribution to the break, but knew when to conserve energy too. Photo: Will Palmer / SWpix

 

The group of six riders worked well together to stay away from the chasing pack. Photo: Will Palmer / SWpix

Meanwhile, behind Callum’s breakaway group the race continued to splinter with Wheelbase’s Matt Fox racing strongly in a group of around 20 chasing riders, while the larger peloton languished further behind. It’s a credit to Matt again regarding how he rode; not contributing to the chase of the breakaway but positioning himself towards the front of his group ready to react if the breakaway ahead of him was caught. As the race headed back to Stockton-on-Tees the time gap hovered around 48 seconds and the team cars were instructed to move behind the chasing group to ensure we did not influence the race. A quick check in with Callum while offering up more food before we dropped back confirmed that he was still riding comfortably, making a real contribution to the success of the break while remaining calm and composed as he contemplated the prospect of racing for the win during the final town-centre laps.

Dan Gardner working hard on the front with Callum sitting in attentively. Photo: Will Palmer / SWpix

 

From the team car the final laps of the race were dizzying; with multiple round-abouts and dog-leg turns each lap presented the chance to track the race leaders and the chasing group as they blasted past on the opposite side of the carriageway. Callum was now in uncharted territory, racing further than he’d ever raced before and finding himself at the sharp end for the duration of the race. With 3 laps to go he unfortunately began to fade and started slipping back from the lead group as fatigue began to take a hold. Again, showing great maturity and fore-thought Callum sat up and joined the chasing group rather than stubbornly trying to hang in between groups and quickly recomposed himself to begin thinking about leading-out Matt who was still riding strongly in this second group on the road.

As we came into the final lap the lead group began to splinter, with a handful of riders asserting themselves as others began to fade. Likewise, behind then that chasing group saw some riders attacking off the front, but as the final dog-leg turn came up Callum positioned himself in front of Matt to lead him out for the sprint for the remaining places with Matt taking a fantastic 13 place and Callum rolling over the line in a brilliant 18^th place. Our two young riders showed enormous ability and great fortitude to race as hard and intelligently as they did at this most demanding level of UK road racing. We’re really proud with how they performed throughout the race and the whole team celebrated an excellent showing for Wheelbase at the Stockton GP; we now go onward to more National Circuit Races and another arduous National Road Series race which takes place just down the road from Wheelbase HQ in Lancaster on Sunday the 17^th of July.

Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli’s Callum Thornley riding strongly in the main breakaway of the day. Photo:Photo: Will Palmer / SWpix

 

Written by Johnny Dodgin

Film by Dave MacFarlane

Photos by Will Palmer / SW Pix

 

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July sees an action-packed month for our Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli team, with a demanding mix of attritional National-level road races at the weekend and mid-week fast, frenetic circuit races, dotted all over the UK within the very highest level of competition. Our lads lined up at Round 1 and 2 of the National Circuit Race Series; first in Otley on Wednesday and then in the beautiful Yorkshire town of Ilkley on the Friday before quickly regrouping for the Stockton GP on the Sunday, an 111 mile road race which is part of the National Road Race Series and is recognised as one of the toughest road races of the season with a packed field of the very best professional teams and riders.

 

National Circuit Race Series, Round 1, Otley, Wednesday 29th June

Arriving on Wednesday evening for the popular Otley Crit the Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli team were greeted by huge crowds lining this iconic venue featuring a high-speed circuit that includes a gradual climb to the highest point before a long straight at the rear of the course which stretches out the field, followed by a long, sweeping descent with a wide left hand bend at the bottom which is taken at breakneck speed in the final lap as riders jockey for position to take the sprint to the line.

Always a popular race venue, Otley saw large crowds for a packed evening of racing. Photo Credit: Warren Davies

 

Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli fielded a reduced team at Otley with Callum Thornley and Logan Maclean making the trip from Scotland following a successful weekend at the National Championships which saw Callum take a brilliant Silver medal in the U23 time trial and Logan bridge across to the main break of the day in the road race, spending time racing alongside eventual winner Mark Cavendish before being reabsorbed by the main bunch. Joining Callum and Logan was our punchy Aussie sprinter Matt Fox who is well-suited to the Crit style of circuit racing and was carrying good from into this block of racing.

Wheelbase’s Callum Thornley was always at the sharp end of the race. Photo Credit: Warren Davies

 

At just an hour long the racing action started immediately as riders jockeyed for position, with the larger teams dictating the pace as individual riders attempted to attack off the front to establish a breakaway. As the race progressed there were a few impromptu rain showers adding an element of jeopardy on the corners as the large bunch hit the turns at full speed; Callum, Logan and Matt raced intelligentially, keeping themselves well-positioned near the front of the bunch. The hour passed quickly with multiple moves made until two riders established a break at around one minute ahead of the peloton, but as the race came to the final lap the pair only had seconds to contest the sprint before being swamped by the chasing pack which was now opening up the bunch sprint. Callum proved that his great form was still there taking an excellent 6th place, with Matt Fox taking 11th place and Logan taking 21st place. It was a great way to start this demanding block of racing and the lads finished the race already looking forward to moving on to Ilkley to do it all again.

Logan Maclean chasing the moves at Otley. Photo Credit: Warren Davies

 

National Circuit Race Series, Round 2, Ilkley, Friday 1st July

The Ilkley Circuit Race is always a firm favourite with us, partly down to the fact we have our own Wheelbase Yorkshire store based in the town making this our ‘local race’ despite its national importance. The popular former spa town, just 16 miles from the City of Leeds and nestled in the picturesque Wharfe Valley, boasts elegant Victorian architecture and a multitude of wine bars, restaurants and pubs; the Ilkley circuit race always features a large crowd made up of a mix of genuine cycling fans and curious onlookers who happen to be on a night out meaning this race is popularly referred to as the ‘Posh Crit’.

The Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli team calmly preparing for action. Photo Credit: Warren Davies

 

The Ilkley circuit is made up of a relatively short loop on tightly-packed roads right through the centre of Ilkley. The long start and finishing straight lined with pubs and bars saw crowds of spectators five-people deep shouting encouragement on every lap before riders turned abruptly to the right to sprint out of the saddle up a steep, short & sharp climb before turning right again onto a more gradual but no-less demanding climb to the furthest point of the circuit. This section would see riders attacking off the front and trying to break the will of the peloton before swinging down a long tree-lined descent with a wide, but super-fast corner back onto the finishing straight.

Fraser Martin in action as the rain began to fall. Photo Credit: Warren Davies

 

Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli fielded four riders at Ilkley, with the reduced team being affected by ongoing illnesses including Covid which has spread throughout the peloton over recent weeks. Hot off his brilliant Silver medal position at the National Time Trial Championships Callum Thornley was looking to cash-in on his good run of form which had already seen him take a fantastic 6th place at Round 1 of the National Crit Series in Otley on Wednesday evening. Alongside him was our Aussie wonder-kid Matt Fox who is really beginning to show his talent for racing at the sharp end as the season continues; he’s got a smart head and knows how to position himself as well as having a great final kick for the sprint at his disposal. Tim Shoreman made the quick transition from his recent track-racing focus for British Cycling back to Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli team duties and we were hopeful that he could capitalise on his leg speed for the Crit. Rounding out our reduced team was Fraser Martin who brought a wealth of racing experience with him, having competed at Ilkley on numerous occasions.

The short, sharp climb influenced the race with riders attacking every lap. Matt Fox is in the chase. Photo Credit: Warren Davies

 

We expected action from the start and were not disappointed, with moves being made as soon as the gun went off. The nature of the tight, short circuit encourages riders to make sharp accelerations into that steep climb in an effort to break away, and very quickly this is what happened, with the field already splintered into smaller groups by the second lap. As the race settled down a little a group of 6 riders including the National Circuit Race Champion Matt Bostock began to work together to stretch out their lead from the main bunch. Only a few seconds behind we were happy to see Wheelbase’s Callum Thornley chasing hard with a small number of racers, but only time would tell to see if he could make it across to the leading riders.

Callum Thornley taking the long, sweeping turn at full chat. Photo Credit: Warren Davies

 

The following hour of racing proved to be chaotic and increasingly difficult to keep track of from the road side as racers began to lap the small groups that had lost significant time to this demanding circuit. By this point Callum was isolated with two riders from the same team and looked to be doing the majority of the work on the front of the chase to that small group of riders further up the road. A quick count-back from the leaders confirmed that even if he was beaten in the sprint by both riders Callum would take 9th place on the night with the peloton now too far back to pose any danger to his race position. The race leaders caught the main bunch in the final lap making for a chaotic and confusing sprint for the win which saw Sam Watson from the Groupama FDJ continental team take the win.

Callum would go on to chase the leaders as part of a trio along with the two Team Inspired riders (in green). Photo Credit: Warren Davies

 

Close behind Callum was lighting up the sprint against the two riders from Team Inspired; racing for 7th place and up against the duo who had seemed to sit on Callum’s wheel for the majority of the race it was always going to be a tall order to finish ahead of them both but Callum did manage to take a brilliant 8th place on the line, consolidating his high overall position in the National Circuit Series. Elsewhere our squad had mixed results in this chaotic evening of racing with Matt Fox taking 32nd, Tim Shoreman taking 44th and Fraser Martin taking 49th on the night. It was a great showing from the team and as we packed down all of the kit for the journey home our thoughts were already turning to the longer, more demanding National Road Series coming up quickly in Stockton-on-Tees on the Sunday.

Callum Thornley’s streak of good from served him well at the Ilkley Crit. Photo Credit: Warren Davies

 

Written by Johnny Dodgin

Photos by Warren Davies

 

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FREE CANNONDALE JUNCTION MIPS HELMET WHEN YOU PURCHASE A TOPSTONE ALLOY GRAVEL BIKE*

 

Claim your free Cannondale Junction Mips helmet (RRP £65.00) with the purchase of any new

Topstone Alloy 0, 1, 2, 3 & 4 until September 30th 2022

 

Redeem this offer by scanning the QR code below after you have received your new Topstone Alloy.

You’ll be taken to an online document to fill in your basic contact details and provide Cannondale with your bike’s serial number along with a proof of purchase.

The free helmet offer is provided to the customer independently by Cannondale UK and is not part of an offer from Wheelbase Lakeland Limited.

Please scan the QR Code to read terms and conditions.

 

It’s time for another exciting product launch from Trek! Say hello to the all-new Trek Madone SLR, designed to help you perform faster and more efficiently than ever before and in more comfort than previously thanks to their clever new IsoFlow technology. Eagle-eyed road racing fans may have already spotted the all-new Madone being raced by the Trek Segafredo pro cycling team at the Criterium Du Dauphine, a week-long race that is casually referred to as the ’Tour De France tune up’. With its distinctive profile and dramatic cut out between the top tube and seat tube it didn’t take long for cycling journalists and tech geeks alike to start sharing spy-shots of this beautifully sculpted aero road bike. So now it’s officially launched and out in the open let’s take a deeper look at the 2023 Trek Madone SLR…

With its distinctive ‘IsoFlow’ cut-out the all-new Madone SLR was easy to spot in the peloton.

 

Believe it or not this is the 7^th generation of Madone from Trek; what started out as a pretty conventional carbon road bike with caliper brakes all those years ago has gradually evolved to be Trek’s out-and-out aero race machine. Somewhere through the bike’s evolution it moved to being disc brake only and has also seen a couple of different iterations of Trek’s brilliant IsoSpeed decoupler which gave this super-stiff and responsive aero road bike a tangible level of comfort in the saddle.

Lighter, more aerodynamic and even more comfortable, the Trek Madone SLR features some significant improvements.

 

The all-new Trek Madone SLR is packed full of new features and never-seen-before technology including their new IsoFlow seat tube configuration. Compared to its predecessor the Gen 7 Madone boasts increased comfort and compliance which is now achieved by the frame’s clever carbon construction and that distinctive profile with its cut-out section sitting below an integrated carbon seat mast that extends directly from the top tube and is designed to flex, giving you noticeable comfort in the saddle. Another advantage of this new, sculpted carbon frame is an overall decrease in weight; not only that, it’s more aero too with some solid aerodynamic testing proving that air flows more efficiently through the frame than previously, hence the name ‘IsoFlow’.

Trek’s new IsoFlow technology dramitcally reduces overall weight, is even more comfortable AND is aerodynamically more efficient too.

 

Trek are boldly billing the new Madone as the fastest road race bike they’ve ever made, measuring it as 19 watts faster than the previous generation (measured at 45 km/h) – thanks to that new aero frame shaping, a redesigned bar stem and an overall more aerodynamic riding position. The Madone’s new race bar is 3 cm narrower in the hoods than the drops – taking inspiration from how a lot of the best pro road cyclists have been running their brake levers turned in for a more aero position. By configuring the bars this way in production there’s less need to do that and the overall hand position is more ergonomic while giving you great control. Trek recommend that riders use their typical bar size when buying the new Madone SLR – so if you normally use a 42 cm bar stem, opt for 42 cm in the drops and 39 cm in the hoods.

Following feedback from Trek’s own Trek Segafredo pro cycling team the American brand have developed a new, more aero and ergonomic integrated handlebar.

 

Trek Madone SLR 2023 – Quick Facts…

• All new Kamtail shaping – each aero tube profile has been refined
• IsoFlow – new seat tube technology provides a smooth, compliant ride, improves aerodynamics and reduces frame weight
• Enhanced integration of handlebar and stem
• Improved internal seat clamp – more user friendly adjustability
• New handlebar shape improves aerodynamics of rider position without compromising comfort and control
• Fits up to 28mm tyres
• Madone frame only compatible with electronic groupsets
• Threaded T47 bottom bracket
• Race-oriented H1.5 frame geometry

Trek Madone SLR 9 eTap Red RRP £13,800.00

 

Trek Madone SLR 9 Dura Ace Di2 RRP £12,700.00

 

Trek Madone SLR 7 eTap Force RRP £9,600.00

 

Trek Madone SLR 7 Ultegra Di2 RRP £9,150.00

 

Trek Madone SLR 6 eTap Rival RRP £7,450.00

 

Trek Madone SLR 6 105 RRP £6,850.00

 

A lot of time and attention has been spent improving the Madone’s cockpit for improved aerodynamics.

 

IsoFlow is an innovative design solution that improves aerodynamics, comfort and reduces overall weight.

 

We’ll see the all-new Trek Madone in action at this year’s Tour De France and Tour De France Féminin.

 

Seen from the side it’s clear how the integrated seat mast and top tube is designed to flex and increase compliance in the saddle.

 

Will Trek Segafredo’s Mad Pederson pilot his all-new Madone SLR to a home win in the Tour France? This year’s edition starts on the roads of Denmark.

 

Written by Johnny Dodgin

All photos by Trek

 

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Check out this absolute beauty which we recently asked our talented photographer James Vincent to shoot for our regular Fast Bike feature. He’s done a crackin’ job of capturing the stunning Mondraker Raze Carbon RR trail bike which boasts 150mm of travel upfront combined with 130mm of rear travel facilitated by Mondraker’s super-plush Zero floating suspension configuration. There’s a reason why the Raze Carbon RR is silver and yellow, it’s a visual cue from Mondraker that this thing goes like a hot knife through butter!

The Raze Carbon RR is a lightweight carbon trail bike that can also boast plush suspension and agile, playful geometry.

 

Spanish brand Mondraker is particularly popular with our more discerning mountain biking customers, thanks in no small part to the reputation they have for the super-agile ride quality of their bikes. The sheer amount of work and refinement that they’ve put into the development of their trail geometry over recent years is apparent every time you jump onboard a Mondraker; at the heart of their ‘Forward Geometry’ design principle is an extended reach frame combined with a super-short stem. Mondraker were the absolute pioneers when it came to establishing this geometry concept and it’s perfectly suited to the specific demands of riding more confidently and in control downhill; it’s the same design principle that we’ve seen every other bike brand arrive at subsequently, increasing stability at speed, providing better front wheel control and dramatically improving front tyre grip.

The Mondraker Raze Carbon RR is a carbon beauty that features plenty of innovative engineering.

 

For 2022 Forward Geometry is in its ninth season but the evolution doesn’t stand still. Most recently Mondraker have introduced shorter fork offsets to match their existing Forward Geometry. After extensive testing they have proved that shorter fork offsets give the biggest benefits in combination with the Forward Geometry concept, giving super-responsive and direct steering thanks to a short stem and long reach top tube. This design principle gives the Raze Carbon RR a more playful ride and a feeling that you can attack harder into the corners.

Mondraker were early pioneers of progressive geometry with their ‘Forward Geometry’ now being imitated by many big brands.

 

Mondraker’s Stealth Carbon provides a magic mix of structural rigidity, trail buzz absorption and excellent lightness to durability ratio. 

 

The lust-worthy Raze Carbon RR is constructed from Mondraker’s ‘Stealth Carbon’, the most refined, lightest frame material at their disposal. As you’ll have already noticed when casting your eyes over all of those beautiful angles, the Stealth Air Carbon manufacturing process creates an aero-style profile combined with maximum stiffness, an overall lighter weight and enhanced compliance for more comfort and control off-road. In fact this clever carbon manufacturing process has been specifically developed to eliminate trail chatter and all of this manufacturing technology gives the Raze Carbon RR its distinctive silhouette too, complete with that razor-thin top tube, beautifully sculpted headtube junction and stylish curves.

The Raze’s unique razor-thin top tube and clever junction into the frame’s headtube is super-light while being stiff and particularly strong too.

 

The Mondraker Raze Carbon RR boasts 130mm of plush rear travel thanks in no small part to their sophisticated ZERO dual link suspension configuration which sees the shock floating between two suspension links and compressed from both ends. This clever suspension system means that the Raze is both extremely sensitive on small bumps while being able to handle big hits too.

Mondraker’s ZERO dual link suspension configuration facilitates a floating shock between the two links and is compressed from both ends.

 

There’s another massive benefit to the ZERO suspension configuration, which is particularly useful on a superlight trail bike like the Raze Carbon RR which has been designed to skip UPHILL as easily as it dives DOWN them; ZERO technology eliminates any potential for power loss when you pedal, giving a stable ride with no unwanted bobbing or movement. ZERO also eliminates pedal kickback with minimum chain growth as the bike travels through its suspension. Finally the ZERO configuration prevents brake jack, isolating braking and suspension forces from each other meaning that Mondraker’s ZERO does away with a whole raft of issues that are often encountered on similar trail bikes from rival brands.

One of ZERO’s main advantages is that the configuration incurs ZERO power loss giving a completely stable ride when pedalling.

 

ZERO suspension can handle big hits while remaining super-sensitive to small bumps.

 

OK, have you noticed the small black attachment on underside of the fork crown? What about the small black coin-sized attachment sitting on the main pivot of the rear suspension? This is Mondraker’s MIND, an integrated telemetry system to help you fine-tune your own Raze Carbon RR’s suspension to specifically suit you and your riding style. You may have seen some Downhill and Enduro mountain bike pros test-riding their suspension setups with complicated and expensive telemetry systems, supplied by their suspension sponsors and retro-fitted to their bikes. Well, Mondraker have taken that technology and made it available to the masses in the form of these compact and discrete attachments.

Mondraker’s MIND technology gives you integrated telemetry to help you set up your Raze’s suspension properly. 

 

Mondraker’s MIND works in unison with the myMONDRAKER App; data is collected by the integrated sensors on the bike before combining GPS riding data with suspension activity data for simple and easy to understand analysis on the App. MIND will help you to better understand how your suspension is working on your chosen route giving you detailed information including ride times, total ride distance, average speed, elevation gain and more, as well as other important mountain-biking-specific parameters like suspension sag, maximum front and rear suspension travel and whether or not your suspension bottomed out at any time. All of this data will help you set your Raze Carbon RR trail bike to better suit your riding style.

MIND collects data from every ride you do and sends it, together with suspension activity data, to the ‘myMondraker’ App.

 

With such a sophisticated floating shock rear suspension configuration and that unique telemetry system the Mondraker Raze Carbon RR deserves to have the highest quality fork and rear shock available to help bring the very best out of this brilliantly engineered trail bike. Mondraker have gone with Fox’s top of the range Fox 36 29 Float GRIP2 suspension fork with their gold Factory Kashima finish on the stanchions helping to deliver a super-plush 150mm of travel upfront. That MIND telemetry is quickly going to let you know how best to run your suspension fork, encouraging you to be selective with the 3 position micro adjust compression, low-speed rebound and air preload. Mondraker have spec’d a Fox Float DPS Factory Kashima evol LV rear shock giving 130mm of travel and again it features plenty of adjustment for you to fine tune how it behaves once you’ve harvested all of that valuable data from the Mondraker MIND.

 The Fox 36 29 Float GRIP2 Factory suspension fork with Kashima coating gives the Raze its capacity for big hits on the trails.

 

Mondraker have spec’d the Raze Carbon RR trail bike with a nice mix of SRAM components to make up a versatile drivetrain which gives you all of the gears you’ll need to open up your riding regardless of whether you’ve got the Raze pointed downhill or uphill. A Sram X01 Eagle 12-speed rear derailleur with a Type 3 roller bearing clutch can handle the unpredictable nature of aggressive trail riding, keeping your chain securely located as you move through a huge selection of gears on the wide ratio 10-52T cassette. Every gear selection is positive and immediate thanks to the simple SRAM GX Eagle trigger shifter, meaning that you can be confident in every selection, even during the most chaotic of riding scenarios.

The Mondraker Raze Carbon RR is spec’d with a wide ratio 12-speed rear derailleur helping to ensure you’ve got plenty of climbing gears.

 

SRAM’s GX Eagle trigger shifter gives a positive gear shift every time, so you’ll never fluff your gears.

 

The SRAM 12-speed cassette gives you a huge spread of gears from 10T to 52T.

 

Continuing the bling factory spec and contributing to the overall light weight of the Raze Carbon RR, Mondraker have included a superlight, stiff SRAM X1 Carbon Eagle Boost chainset with DUB axle and a 32T direct mount chain ring. That narrow / wide chain ring will do a good job of keeping your 12-speed chain securely located on its own, however Mondraker are taking no chances and have included a small integrated chain catcher too, preventing any possibility of a chain derailment compromising your favourite downhill trail.

Keeping weight to a minimum Mondraker have included a super-light, super-stiff SRAM X1 Carbon Eagle chainset featuring a 32T chainring.

 

Pointed uphill it’s surprising just how spritely the Raze Carbon RR feels; it’s testament to how that clever floating rear shock and ZERO suspension platform is behaving with it not being negatively affected by pedalling input; the bike’s lightweight Stealth Air carbon fibre construction with a magic blend of stiffness and comfort helps too of course. Point the Raze downhill at the top of your favourite trail though and this 130mm travel trail bike really comes to life; with the 150mm travel fork up front you’ll very quickly find yourself charging into tight turns and technical terrain at speeds you’re unaccustomed to. It’s at this point that you’ll need effective anchors to scrub off speed quickly and efficiently; SRAM have you covered with their Sram G2 RS brake levers and powerful 4-piston hydraulic brake calipers. Matched up with large diameter 180mm disc rotors front and rear braking feels instantaneous at the lever, with just the right amount of pull and plenty of moderation, giving you a feeling of confident control regardless of how rowdy your riding gets.

There’s a positive, immediate feel to the SRAM G2 RS hydraulic brake levers.

 

A fast bike like the Raze Carbon RR is going to gain speed quickly; the SRAM G2 RS 4-piston calipers and 180mm rotors will keep you in control.

 

The Raze Carbon RR comes spec’d with a 29” wheelset from popular wheel brand DT Swiss. Finding a pair of wheels that strikes that delicate balance between being lightweight and efficient while also being able to stand up to the rigors of aggressive gravity-focused trail riding isn’t always easy and a poor set of wheels on an otherwise brilliant bike can be a real breaker. Thankfully Mondraker have scored another success here with the DT 350 wheelset which features wide DT Swiss XM1700 Spline 29 rims with a 30mm internal rim width helping to create a tyre sidewall profile that can handle the inevitable big hits and severe compressions that come with riding hard downhill. A pair of DT 350 hubs with Boost spacing and cartridge bearings are smooth rolling and durable while the rear hub features DT’s 36T SL Ratchet system freehub body which facilitates instant engagement when you stomp down on the pedals out of fast, swooping turns.

You can’t go wrong with a DT Swiss wheelset, they’re light, smooth-rolling and durable too.

 

When it came to tyre selection for the Raze Carbon RR, Spanish brand Mondraker made an intelligent choice, fitting a pair of capable 29” tyres designed to excel on demanding downhill trails where premium grip and control is required on unpredictable trails. Upfront we’ve got a 2.4” wide Maxxis Dissector with an extra level of sidewall protection from EXO+ and an aggressive tread pattern with large side knobs ready to bite when throwing the Raze into tight, loose turns. Complimenting the Dissector is a slightly narrower 2.3” Maxxis Aggressor on the rear designed to cope with the forces incurred while shredding high-speed mountain bike trails. With a slightly shallower central tread it’ll roll fast on smoother terrain while providing plenty of grip when conditions get softer and more unpredictable.

Tough, wide DT Swiss XM1700 Spline 29 rims shod with Maxxis tryes are ready for whatever is thrown at them.

 

A nice wide 2.4″ Maxxis Dissector tyre with EXO+ protection will help you barrel through any trail, regardless of how rocky they are.

 

The Maxxis Dissector features a versatile tread pattern that rolls fast but provides plenty of control when you’re railing the Raze into tight berms.

 

A Fox Transfer Factory dropper seatpost featuring a durable Kashima coating will get your saddle out of the way fast and effectively.

 

Rounding out the spec of the Mondraker Raze Carbon RR is a tidy selection of components including stem and handlebars from Spanish compatriots OnOff. A super-short 30mm OnOff Krypton FG stem has a significant affect on just how sharp the handling of the Raze feels and a carbon OnOff Kripton handlebar contributes the bike’s low overall weight while being specifically designed and constructed to handle the extra forces incurred while riding hard on the trails. Elsewhere those Fox Factory suspension forks and the rear shock are complimented by a matching Kashima coated Fox Factory Transfer dropper seatpost with lengths and the amount of drop sized appropriately to each frame size. The Transfer dropper is quickly and easily activated via a simple trigger lever set below the handlebar on the left of the bars, allowing you to get your saddle out of the way in an instant when you plumet down steep drops.

The Fox Transfer Factory dropper seatpost is quickly activated by a lever on the left of the handlebar.

 

The Mondraker Raze Carbon RR mid-travel trail bike represents all that’s good with the modern mountain bike and it’s fair to say that the Spanish brand has stolen a march on some of its rival brands when it comes to a trail bike that really excels in all riding scenarios. It’s typical to cast your eyes over certain bikes and quickly make a visual audit of what is and isn’t going to work for you. For example one choice may be featherlight and be ready for tough day-long rides but compromises on suspension travel and big hit capability, while another choice may fill you with confidence when it comes to being able to barrel down the toughest, most unpredictable rocky descents but rides like a dog when you point it back up hill. The Raze Carbon RR with its pedal-efficient ZERO suspension configuration along with the light and stiff STEALTH carbon construction gives you all of the climbing performance you’ll need to get you to the top of your favourite trails while the sorted FORWARD GEOMETRY helps you descend with confidence and gives a really agile ride with that ZERO suspension coming to life and giving you 130mm of plush travel in the rear. Throw in Mondraker’s unique MIND telemetry system and you’ve got all the tools you’ll need to set up your Raze to perfectly suit your riding style and the environment you’re riding in.

A lot of bike brands like to claim they’ve created a mountain bike that can do it all; Mondraker ain’t lying when it comes to the Raze Carbon RR.

 

Mondraker Raze Carbon RR RRP £6,799.00

Full Specification:

• Frame: Raze 29 Stealth Air full Carbon, Zero Suspension System, 130mm travel, Forward Geometry, Carbon Monoblock upper link, Boost 12x148mm rear axle, tapered head tube, 73mm BSA bottom bracket, dedicated 1x drivetrain design, HHG internal cable routing, Enduro MAX sealed bearings, shock mudguard, ISCG 05, custom frame protectors.
• Rear Shock: Fox Float DPS Factory Kashima evol LV, 205×57.5mm. Settings: Compression 3 positions lever, low-speed compression, low-speed rebound, air preload. Trunnion top mount, 30x8mm bottom bushings
• Shock Settings: Light compression, light rebound, air volume spacer 0.6
• Headset: Acros custom for 1-1/2″ head tube, angular contact bearings 40x52x7, Internal cable routing
• Derailleur Hanger: SRAM UDH
• Fork: Fox 36 29 Float GRIP2 Factory Kashima, 150mm, tapered steerer tube, Boost 15x110mm axle, 44mm offset. Settings: 3 positions with micro adjust compression, low-speed rebound, air preload
• Derailleur: Sram X01 Eagle, Type 3 roller bearing clutch, cage lock, 1x12s, X-Actuation 1:1
• Shifter: Sram Trigger GX Eagle, 12s, X-Actuation 1:1
• Cassette: Sram XG-1275, 10-52T, 12s
• Cranks: Sram X1 Carbon Eagle, Boost, DUB axle, Direct mount chain ring, S/M size: 170mm, L/XL size: 175mm
• Chainring: 32T, CNC-machined alloy, X-SYNC 2
• Bottom Bracket: Sram DUB BSA, sealed bearings, 73mm
• Brakes: Sram G2 RS, 4-piston caliper
• Brake Levers: Sram G2 RS, SwingLink, tool-free reach adjust
• Rotors: Centerline 180mm IS 6 bolts one-piece rotor, steel-backed organic pads
• Rims: DT Swiss XM1700 Spline 29, 30mm internal width, welded aluminum, tubeless ready, 28 spokes
• Spokes: DT Competition, straight pull
• Front Hub: DT 350, Boost 15x110mm, IS 6 bolts
• Rear Hub: DT 350, Boost 12x148mm, 36T SL Ratchet system, IS 6 bolts, XD freehub
• Front Tyre: Maxxis Dissector 29×2.4 WT, tubeless ready, 3C MAXX TERRA compound, EXO+ protection, 120TPI, folding bead
• Rear Tyre: Maxxis Aggressor 29×2.3, tubeless ready, dual compound, Exo protection, 60TPI, folding bead
• Stem: Onoff Krypton FG 30mm, CNC, 31.8mm barbore
• Handlebar: Onoff Kripton Carbon 1.0, rise: 25mm, width: 800mm, 9º backsweep, 5º upsweep, 31.8mm barbore
• Grips: Onoff Diamond, 1lock-on, 135mm
• Saddle: Fizik Antares R7
• Seatpost: Fox Transfer Factory Kashima internal, diameter 31.6mm, S size: 363.5x125mm, M size: 418.3x150mm, L/XL size: 475.1x175mm

 

Written by Johnny Dodgin

Photos by James Vincent

 

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The biggest, most important road races of the year took place on the unforgiving roads of Dumfries and Galloway in Scotland over the last weekend of June, as the very best male and female British road cyclists based in the UK and beyond came together to decide who would wear the prestigious red, white and blue National Champion jerseys in the specific disciplines of the Time Trial, the Circuit Race and the Road Race.

Our young Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli team, made up predominately of Scottish riders were keen to prove themselves on what could be described as their ‘home roads’. Already this season the lads have proven themselves to be hard working and tenacious when taking on the most challenging road races in the UK, racing against stacked fields of the best national racers. The next few days of racing would prove to be their biggest test yet as they not only took on the UK’s best domestic riders but also squared up to the ever-growing contingent of British racers based in Europe as part of the very best professional cycling teams including Ineos, Quick-Step and EF Education.

Exposed Scottish roads, high winds and intermittent rain made for difficult racing conditions. Photo by SW Pix

 

Thursday the 23^rd of June saw the first action of the extended National Championships weekend with riders competing in the Time Trial; a discipline which pits riders against the clock on specialist aerodynamic Time Trial bikes complete with disc wheels and aero handlebars. We had high hopes for the Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli team going into the event, with three of our riders competing in the challenging Under 23 category, made up of a mix of domestic riders and young pros who had returned from their international racing duties in Europe. Matti Dobbins, Logan Maclean and Callum Thornley donned their Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli skins suits and aero helmets to take on the 22 kilometer circuit.

Callum Thornley on his way to a brilliant 2nd place in the National Under 23 Time Trial Championships. Photo by SW Pix

 

We had particularly high hopes for Callum Thornley who, at only 18 years of age is already proving himself to be a formidable powerhouse on the road, especially against the clock where he recently set the second fastest Scottish 10 mile time of 18 minutes and 38 seconds coming close to the Scottish record of 18 minutes and 12 seconds set by John Archibald in 2021. His performance at the National TT Championships didn’t disappoint! Taking an excellent 2^nd place behind an in-form Leo Haytor (younger brother of Ethan Haytor from Team Ineos) who had just returned from winning the ‘Baby Giro’ – the Under 23 version of the Giro d’Italia stage race. Taking the Silver medal Callum finished just 16 seconds behind Haytor and came in ahead of a formidable list of national and international U23 riders bursting with talent; all of the hard work and time spent on his time trial machine, refining his position paid off, Chapeau Callum! Logan Maclean continues to impress; really stepping up his racing this year and showing his talent for racing hard after his long comeback trail, following some potentially life-changing injuries just two seasons ago. Logan would take an excellent 13^th place in the TT while Wheelbase teammate Matti Dobbins would take 33^rd place.

Callum took the silver medal behind Leo Hayter who had recently won the prestigious ‘Baby Giro’ in Italy. Photo by SW Pix

 

Callum Thornley’s impressive performance in the Time Trial has confirmed racing talent against the clock. Photo by SW Pix

 

There was no let-up at the National Championships with five of our Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli squad lining up for the Circuit Race the very next day after the Time Trial. Matti Dobbins, Tim Shoreman and David Duggan were joined by Callum Thornley, our Silver Medalist from the previous day to take on an hour of the most fast and frenetic racing seen all weekend. The circuit took in the scenic harbour town of Kirkcudbright, but there was no time for sight-seeing during the elbow-to-elbow racing which saw an early break of four riders getting away from the main bunch. Later in the race with the peloton continuing to chase Callum made multiple attacks in attempt to get across, showing yet again what great form he has at the moment. At the end of this chaotic race Matt Bostock from rival team WiV Sungod took the win with Thornley our highest placed finisher taking 16^th place, while David Duggan took 27^th. Matti and Tim unfortunately succumbed to untimely punctures, however with the main event still to come, our riders had time to recompose ready for the tough 202km National road Race on Sunday.

This was to be the biggest test of the weekend for our young squad; with Under 23 riders and Senior riders all racing together in a stacked field of national and international riders including such luminaries as Mark Cavendish and Ben Swift, both former winners of this race, as well as fellow pros Ethan Haytor and Owain Doull. Racing conditions couldn’t have been more difficult with 30mph winds, driving rain early in the race and an exposed course full of long, draggy climbs. A breakaway of talented racers got away only 20 kilometers into the race and included Mark Cavendish who was full of ambition to win the National Champion’s Jersey and secure a place on his team for the upcoming Tour De France.

The National Circuit Race Championships saw fast and frenetic bar to bar racing. Photo by SW Pix

 

With many of the more established pro teams and riders sitting tight in the bunch waiting to see how the race would play out Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli’s Logan Maclean went on the attack and rather amazingly made the junction to the breakaway group. It was fantastic to see Logan make this brave move and get some welcome exposure for the team on national and international television coverage, spending the next 15 miles in the break before the race got too attritional. 202km of racing with a stacked international field, racing at an average speed of 27mph took its toll on our young team, with none of our riders able to feature in the finishing results on this occasion. Regardless of the outcome of the final day of racing we are extremely proud of how the team performed over the previous few days with the highlight most certainly being that fantastic Silver medal for Callum.

 

Written by Johnny Dodgin

Photos by Simon Wilkinson

 

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Andrew Barlow and his Bikepacking crew, made up of Wheelbase staff and other local riding buddies got together for a Summer Solstice micro-adventure. The plan was simple – head out for a ride; watch the sunset, bivvy out for the night and cruise straight back into work the next morning..

We headed out straight after work from Wheelbase HQ in Staveley in the Lake District on a Summer Solstice micro adventure. With warm temperatures, dry & dusty trails and the shortest amount of darkness of any night of the year camping out with the crew was a no-brainer.

Straight out of the door of Wheelbase Lake District to a Bikepacking micro-adventure.

 

So, what is summer solstice’s significance I hear you ask. Well, In Northern and Central European Neolithic cultures, the summer solstice may have been related to timings of crop cycles. It was typically marked by Celtic, Slavic and Germanic people by lighting bonfires, intended to boost the sun’s strength for the remainder of the crop season and ensure a healthy harvest. Numerous Neolithic stone circles also appear to have been built around the movement of the sun at solstices, there’s a multitude of them here in the Lakes although, as there are no written accounts from the time period which is quite unfortunate however it did begin around 12,000 years ago!

Dry, warm conditions and the longest hours of daylight of the year made for a great riding and wild-camping opportunity.

 

 

Andrew’s crew are all regular Bikepackers and Wild Campers, with well organised kit lists.

 

We headed west, over Lake Windermere via the ferry and along Claife Heights, sitting pretty around 177 meters above sea level where we were treated to great views of the surrounding fells. A mixture of rolling countryside, plantation, quaint tarns and  ancient woodlands presented us with plenty of good options for a wild camp. Everyone in my riding group is already well-versed, however it’s worth reinforcing – that we all observe the ‘leave no trace’ principle when wild camping in the Lake District.

The Claife Heights trail alongside Lake Windermere made for a great gravel bike ride.

 

The Summer Solstice ride was an opportunity for friends to get together and celebrate the longest day of the year.

 

A perfectly still evening meant a dip in the tarn to cool off from one of the hottest rides of the year was in order, followed by a couple of cold beverages with the boys and girls to wind down and watch the Summer Solstice Sun set. The next morning we all awoke to a chorus of geese on the tarn. The cloud had descended which left us in a sea of mist and fog for a moody, really atmospheric start to the day.

The Solstice ride was a laidback affair, with gravel riding, tarn swimming and beer supping filling the group’s evening.

 

The Solstice Sleep Out coincided nicely with a dry spell of weather in the Lake District.

 

We packed the bikes back up, holstering our bivvy bags, sleeping bags and the luxury items we had decided to bring with us, not forgetting to leave no trace, collecting our rubbish and some more that was already there (good karma) then descended to the ferry to make our way back across Lake Windermere to arrive at work in a timely manner but mainly making sure that we had time to have breakfast at the fabulous More Bakery of course!

 

Bike light, ride fast; speed was going to be something we needed too as it turned out.

 

Disaster strikes! As we get to the ferry we find out it wasn’t running due to essential maintenance and were immediately forced into a 30km TT round the top of the lake to Ambleside before climbing all the way up to Windermere before and tackling some steep backroad climbs and descending down into the village of Staveley to get set for another day working at Wheelbase HQ. What I have learned from that unwelcome surprise is always expect the unexpected and make sure you’ve always got enough time if you’re potentially going to be racing against the clock!

Best laid plans. We were disappointed to find the Ferry closed and quickly had to launch ‘Plan B’. 

 

Written by Andrew Barlow

Photos by Andrew Barlow

 

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