Author: Sean Leckey

The UK National Cyclocross Championships took place last Sunday at Hetton Lyons Country Park, Sunderland with our team rider Lewis Craven well and truly in the mix at the sharp end of the race. Here Lewis reviews his efforts and reflects on what has been a very successful cyclocross season.

‘This year there was more pressure than usual in the run up to the National ‘Cross Champs in Hetton. Various sources in the cycling media had put me in a short list as a podium favourite. My third place in Bradford behind two pros had upped my expectations as well. The Hetton course being generally muddy and technical suited my skills, and the lack of U23 riders would mean the start would be less frantic.

The start itself could not have gone better, a front row grid and clean pedal entry had me taking the hole shot. Usually, after 100 metres I’m around 30th. So to be in the top 5 as we started the long climb up to the circuits high point was surprising. My plan was to ride within myself up the climb which resulted in 10 lost places by the top but it was still early in the race and I knew I’d be one of the quicker ones descending. A smooth descent had me back up to 8th by the pits. The Focus Mares was running great and my Challenge tubs gripping well so I skipped entering to change bikes.

The lower section of the circuit comprised of sections of off camber grass which I cruised round to join up with Paul Oldham and Giles Drake. Onto the second lap again I paced myself up the climb and was dropped (must try harder next lap). Some sweet lines had me into 5th at the bottom of the descent now with Steve James up ahead in 4th. By this stage you start looking around to see where you are in relation to the leaders. It looked like we were lapping at a similar speed to the top 3 and the legs felt great. Pressing on and passing Steve it was all coming together, on the lower section looking back I’d gapped my group again. But guess what, fooled by my high placing again I took on the climb at a comfortable pace and was joined by the 3 behind me.

The next 3 laps our positions chopped and changed as we each made small mistakes or gained a little ground. With three to go I dug in on the climb and crested it in the group fighting for 4th. This is when my legs started to feel tired. Across the traverse I lost 20 metres and that was it, I just couldn’t close it. Soon they were out of sight and knowing I had 7th in the bag I concentrated on not blowing up. The final 2 laps I pushed on knowing I’d not catch them, or be caught and rolled in for 7th. Not bad, but a little disappointing.

However, I can’t be too disappointed. My last year before I become a VET (heck, I’m nearly 40) and I’ve had a good season and to have been fighting for the win with a Belgian pro 15 years my junior in Bradford has given me the confidence to race elite next year. My pit crew (Billy, Stu, Tyla , Tim etc ) have been awesome yet again. My Focus Mares has honestly been the best cross bike I’ve ridden and the organisation and support from Wheelbase as good as ever.

Now I’m going to have a few weeks off, get a bit fatter, get my mountain bike out and hit my local trails. I fancy getting back to my roots and racing some MTB events.

See you at the 3Peaks CX.’
Lewis (neo vet/elite bike racer)

 

Words from Lewis Craven and photos courtesy of Nigel Bradley.

The new R5 isn’t billed as a lighter version of its predecessor, which is generally the case when a new bike is launched. Cervelo instead have chosen to focus on improving stiffness, handling, fit and usability, and based on pro-rider feedback, make the new R5 a more all-round racing machine. The newest iteration of the R5 first came into view at the 2017 Spring Classics where Team Dimension Data riders were riding a never-before-seen bike decked out in a camouflage wrapping. Then at the Giro d’Italia in May there was no disguising the new model as Omar Fraille displayed its climbing prowess with victory on the queen stage.

Over the past two weekends, in unseasonably decent Cumbrian weather, I have been test riding the new R5 around the rolling roads of the Lake District.

The first thing to note is that the new R5 is a classically good-looking race bike – a stunning matte black frame with striking white and fluoro green touches.

Riding out from our Lake District store front door it wasn’t long before I started heading uphill. As the gradient crept upwards towards 10% and I got out of the saddle I immediately felt the bike respond and leap forward. With an increased bottom bracket stiffness of 13% and a meticulously tuned stiffness-to-weight ratio this is where the new R5 excels. As the road goes uphill the lightweight frame and increased stiffness make for an outstanding climbing experience.

Equipped with Shimano’s new mechanical Dura-Ace groupset, the shifting is precise and satisfying. The gearing of a semi-compact chainset and 11-28 cassette is the perfect setup for the less severe inclines of the Lakes and the Mavic Ksyrium Elite Tubeless wheels inspire confidence and comfort.

Cervelo specs this model with its own stem and handlebar combination which offers a comfortable and solid base. The shape of the bar feels especially nice with hands rested on the tops as I tap out a steady rhythm while climbing. Once I reach the high point of the ride and begin to descend I’m inspired with confidence as I shift my weight into corners. The slightly lowered front end gives a more aggressive riding position which feels great and when descending in the drops I feel under complete control.

Overall the new R5 is a superb bike and gives the feeling of a ‘pro’ ride. It climbs supremely, feels comfortable on less than great Cumbrian roads and descends like a dream. Combined with mountains and blue skies I couldn’t think of a better day out.

View our entire range of Cervelo R-Series bikes online.

This year we’ve teamed up with Epic Events for our annual Wheelbase Spring Classic cycle sportive – the perfect ride to kick off the sportive season. Taking place in late March, the ride starts and ends at our Lake District store in Staveley. There’s a choice of two route options – the long course which is 56 miles and the short course which is 34 miles. Both routes take in an early timed hill climb on the A6 with prizes being awarded to the fastest male and female up the climb as well as the illustrious King/ Queen of the Mountain title.

The Spring Classic heads out from our Staveley store and follows some of the finest undulating roads in South Lakeland before skirting the edge of the stunning Howgill fells, both routes offer a scenic and challenging day out. The long route is supported with a feed station in Sedbergh but be sure not to take on board too much as shortly after the route gets a bit lumpy with the climb up to Barbondale. More rolling roads follow as the route traces back up through the Lune Valley and onto the second timed climb of the day up Shacklabank before heading for Grayrigg where the long route rejoins the short route and heads for the finish.

Date and Time:
Starting at 9am on Sunday 25th March 2018

What do I need to enter the event?

A roadworthy bike (mountain bikes and hybrids are acceptable) and recognised cycle helmet.
You must be medically sound and if you have any history of illness or injury, consult your GP beforehand.
You must be 16 years of age or over for the long route on the day of the event. We accept riders aged 12-15 in the ‘short route but they must be accompanied by an adult.

How much to enter?

Entries cost £20/£25 (short/long route) and will close either at 12 noon on the Thursday prior to the event or when the event fills, whichever occurs first.

Included within your entry fee is:
Free Parking at Start/Finish Area
Well stocked feed station on the long route
Mechanical and medical support
Electronic Timing
Free event photos

For further information and to enter the event click here.

 

This weekend we’ll be at the HSBC UK | National Cyclocross Championships which takes place at Hetton Lyon’s Park in Sunderland. We’ll be represented in the men’s elite race with team rider Lewis Craven who will be looking for another strong performance on the back of his third place at the National Trophy in Bradford. In the under-23 men’s race Tom Martin will be carrying the Wheelbase colours as he mixes it with a strong field on Sunday morning. Our team will also be running a stand at the event on Sunday morning so be sure to pop over and say hello. The races will be broadcast live on Facebook and the British Cycling website from 9:15am on Sunday 14th January.

For further information and an in-depth race guide for each of the races head over to the British Cycling website.

2018 is going to be a big year for us here at Wheelbase and we’ve got a load of great events planned to get your cycling fix. Whether you’re into road cycling, mountain biking or fancy learning some skills to keep your bike in shape, we’ve likely got an event for you.

Our year starts with an evening of insight into sports nutrition with the guys from OTE at our Darlington Store on January 31st. Then in February our Workshop tutorials return with three sessions geared towards beginner and intermediate cyclists looking to build confidence with roadside repairs and home maintenance.

Early March sees our first ever North East Big Demo Day at Hamsterley Forest, introduced on the back of our hugely popular Lake District Big Demo Weekend. Bringing together the best MTB manufacturers in the world, we have rides and bikes for everyone, from beginners to experts. Our Big Demo Weekend is back again and takes place over the weekend of 17th and 18th March at our Lake District store.

The Wheelbase Spring Classic cycle sportive takes place in late March and offers two great routes starting and finishing at our Lake District store. On Saturday 7th April we will be hosting our first ever eBike Demo Day at our Lake District store with a selection of electric Mountain, Road and Leisure bikes to try out.

Our Road Bike demo day takes place on May 19th with a superb range of the latest road bikes to take for a spin around the lanes of the Lake District national park, ideal for those looking for a new machine ahead of the summer. The Wheelbase Le Tour de Staveley returns in July and is always a great social event with two route options available and the added bonus of food and drinks on offer post ride.

 

During the summer we will also be running six weeks of the Lakeland Lanequest series and helping with the organisation of the fantastic Sam Houghton MTB challenge.

For a full list of our 2018 events head over to our events page.

Come and join us at Wheelbase North East in Darlington for an evening with the chaps from OTE Performance Nutrition and special guest, OTE supported and Multi World record holding Ultra Cyclist, Chris ‘Hoppo’ Hopkinson

We have recently started stocking OTE at Wheelbase North East because we love how they use only natural ingredients and have tasty subtle flavours with a great range of products aimed at the recreational cyclist right up to the highest performing athletes. We think OTE produce some of the best sports nutrition on the market… plus it’s a local brand based just down the road in Leeds!

So come down to the store for a relaxed and informative presentation along with some great deals and with a surprise treat for all visitors.

Sign up – it’s free! Call the store on 01325 352255 or email darlington@wheelbase.co.uk

Wednesday 31st January 2018

7-9pm

Wheelbase North East, Darlington DL3 7LB

After taking up cycling as a commuter at the age of 31, Chris Hopkinson has gone on to achieve a host of oustanding feats and records in the world of endurance cycling. His achievements include:

• UMCA 100km, 200km, 300km, 500km, 100mile, 200mile, 300mile, 6hr and 12hr Age Group World Records.
• UMCA Missouri Cross State Records West to East and East to West.
• RRA Pembroke to Great Yarmouth Record.
• This year won UMCA European 24hr Championships in Slovenia.
• Won UMCA European 6hr Championships this year at Brands Hatch by 3 x 2.4 mile laps
• 20 World Records in total.
• 4 x Solo RAAM Finishes inc in 2005 First Brit ever to finish RAAM – portrayed in film Bicycle Dreams. Also 2014 finished in 6th in 10 days 18hrs 55mins and won Jure Robic Award
• Finished PBP and LEL, Race Around Ireland 2200km , Furnace Creek 508, Lake Taupo Maxi Enduro – New Zealand.
• Won No Country For Old Men 1000 mile tt with 42,000 feet climbing in Course Record 71hrs 58mins (still stands). With only 20mins sleep throughout
• 9 UMCA World Titles.
• 4 x 24hr, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015.
• 4 x 12hr, 2005, 2014, 2015, 2016.
• 2014 – UltraCycling Cup
• Awarded UltraCyclist of Distinction in 2014
• Completed 36 x 24hrs – Won 12
• Completed 44 x 12hrs – Won 8
• 7 entries in Audax Hall of Fame
• 400,000 lifetime miles so far

Endless trails, demanding descents and unspoiled nature – JAM² from Focus is here to give mountain biking a real boost.

Geared for all-mountain riding – with F.O.L.D suspension, 140mm-150mm travel and a compact Shimano E8000 motor combined with a 756w battery, JAM² is ready for demanding tours across the most demanding terrain.

 

Key Features

• Focus Optimized Linkage Design (F.O.L.D)
• Internal cable routing
• Compact Shimano E8000 motor with 756w battery
• 140-150mm travel
• All-mountain ready with added power

The limited edition JAM² C SL tops the range and comes equipped with full Shimano XTR Di2 groupset, FOX 34 Factory fork, a lightweight carbon frame, 29″ Race Face Next-R carbon wheels and assistance of up to 756w battery power.

The JAM² C will be available from the beginning of 2018. Check out our full range of Focus E-Bikes here.

 

Despite freezing conditions in Bradford on Sunday our man Lewis Craven powered his way to a podium spot at the National Cyclocross Trophy round 5. Lewis rode away from the pack early on the second lap to form a leading pair with Belgian rider Braam Merlier, they took the race to the rest of the field and held the lead for much of the race.

The snowy conditions made for an exciting and technical race with several crashes affecting the field early on. Lewis displayed his bike handling prowess to avoid any disruptions and had the know-how to force an elite move that would ultimately prove decisive, riding clear with Merlier. He rode with the Belgian until two laps to go when Merlier kicked into another gear and got away in the race-winning move. Despite a late surge by pro-mountain biker Grant Ferguson to snatch second place, Lewis crossed the line in third to earn an incredible podium spot in an elite field.

Men’s Elite Result

1. Braam Merlier (Steylaerts-Betfirst)
2. Grant Ferguson (CST American Eagle)
3. Lewis Craven (Wheelbase Altura MGD)

Images courtesy of Cadence Images

Our success continued with a superb ride in the U23 race by new recruit Mark McGuire who took second place on the Bradford course. Mark travelled down from Scotland for the race and it proved worth the trip as he started strongly and remained among the lead bunch to take second behind Calum Fernie. Mark showed his power and some great skill on the tricky course, proving that he’s definitely got a promising future ahead.

Men’s U23 Result

1. Calum Fernie (Nottingham Clarion CC)
2. Mark McGuire (Wheelbase Altura MGD)
3. Billy Harding (PH-MAS Paul/Milnes)

A new brand for us here at Wheelbase, ION began life as a watersports brand making neoprene products for the international surf, wakeboard and windsurf scene. They then branched out into apparel and accessories before launching their bikewear collection in 2012 with functional clothing, accessories, gloves and protection.

The Autumn/Winter collection is now available in store and online. Here we have chosen some of the key pieces which we think are a must for trail riding over the coming months;

Ion Rain Jacket Shelter – £94.95

Riding in the Lake District this piece is an absolute must-have for us as more often than not we’re met with a shower or two. Super lightweight, waterproof rain jacket made of Water_Proof 2way_Stretch fabric. Small packing size & low weight to be a permanent companion in your backpack.

 

Ion Bikepants Scrub Select – £154.95

The water repellency of these pants make them ideal for winter riding conditions. Neoprene reinforcements add extra weather protection and the adjustable waistband and rip inserts above the knee mean a perfect fit in every size.

Ion Insulation Jacket Radiant – £154.95

As the temperature inevitably drops around this time of year we reach straight for this jacket, its Primaloft lining guarantees warmth on those frosty winter rides. It’s also designed with a durable water repellency treatment for when a rain shower begins to creep in. The two zip pockets are a great feature and useful for storing phone and keys.

Ion BD-Sock 2.0 – £29.95

The benefits of this sock are two-fold – they offer an added level of insulation to keep your feet and legs warm and they offer a basic level of protection for your shins. They can be worn on their own as an additional layer of protection under a more substantial knee guards if you’re expecting a tough day.

With a mix of hilarious anecdotes, questionable impressions and intriguing insights Ned Boulting entertained a packed-out audience at the Carus Green Golf Club in Kendal last night.

Opening with a story about his infamous introduction to Tour de France broadcasting – when he mistakenly referred to the Yellow Jersey as the ‘Yellow Jumper’ – Ned captivated the crowd with a selection of stories from his early years as a finish line reporter as he became acquainted with and fell in love with the world’s most famous bike race.

An early highlight came as Ned recalled a story told to him by Australian sprinter Robbie McEwen, involving McEwen winning a Tour stage and then being presented with a bull by French legend Bernard Hinault. Ned had the audience in fits of laughter with his comical impressions of the Aussie and the Frenchman.

Ned talked of many his experiences from that first Tour de France in 2003 through to the present day – spanning the Armstrong years, his relationship with David Millar and how the British revolution in the Tour was kickstarted by Mark Cavendish. After half an hour or so of anecdotes and understandings from Ned, the floor was thrown open to the audience.

There was a good variety of questions covering a range of subjects – from the straight-up hilarious as Ned recalls his strangest interview experiences (he describes South African Robbie Hunter as the angriest man he’s ever interviewed) and some of the most bizarre characters of the peloton (some hysterical Cadel Evans impressions) to the more serious matters of Team Sky’s TUE debacle and the controversy surrounding Shane Sutton and British Cycling’s medal factory.

Host for the evening Alister rounded off the evening with a charity raffle as generously donated prizes were presented by Ned to the lucky winners. All proceeds raised by the event go to Macmillan Cancer Support and The Children’s Ward at Furness General Hospital.

It was a fantastic evening of entertainment and all for good causes. We’d like to say a big thank you to Ned for entertaining us all and also to Alastair for hosting the event and to Saddleback Fred Whitton Challenge, Lakes Road Club and Human Race for their great support.