On the fringes of cycling and triathlon, already endurance-oriented sports, there are athletes pushing their bodies and equipment to the limit. Ultra-distance, but ultra-fast. Not bikepacking, but lightly loaded (and not afraid to sleep on a park bench outside Salzburg). Cervelo call these Big, Stupid Rides, and since the introduction of the Caledonia in 2020, athletes around the world have been exploring just how big and just how stupid those rides can be.

 

 

Whether these athletes are racing a traditional Brevet like Paris-Brest-Paris, or one of the new breed of ultras like the Transcontinental, they reach for the Caledonia-5. Caledonia-5 is built to handle long-distance, high-speed racing— with fit and handling geared toward comfort, but not at the expense of the Cervelo race bike feeling.

 

 

Similar to the revisions on Aspero, Cervelo have focused on improvements that would be meaningful for the people pushing Caledonia to its limits. The biggest thing you’ll notice is the addition of the in-frame storage first seen on P-Series. This isn’t designed to fit a burrito—there’s room for a small multi-tool, tube, and a CO2 canister. Out of sight, out of mind, until your tire makes the bad noise.

 

 

The focus for refinement was comfort. Caledonia is the bike to reach for when you know the odometer is heading for triple digits. And whether that’s training for Sverigetempot, or tagging along with your riding buddy who always seems to push the limits of Type 2 fun, Caledonia’s more compliant ride will be a welcome shift. The seat stays are dropped, similar to Aspero, which makes that rear triangle more acute, and more vertically flexible. At the same time, there’s a bit more downtube stiffness to maintain that pro-level responsiveness Caledonia is known for. You can still stuff some big tires (36mm) in there, and every bike comes with fender mounts.

 

 

AeroDynamics

All Cervélo bikes are aero bikes. And when you’re on three days of panini and candy, running on fumes into Checkpoint One, you’ll appreciate the free speed. The completely internal housing, and aero tube shapes team up to help you do battle against the wind.

 

 

In Frame Storage

New this year on the Caledonia-5, the in-frame storage is designed for a tube, small multi-tool, and a CO2 canister. The hatch is easily removable even with gloves on—just flip the lock and pull.

 

 

Refine and Enhance

Caledonia-5 is meant for all-day riding, high-pace group rides, and routes featuring less-than-ideal tarmac. We kept all the good stuff and improved the little things like the split bearing cap designed to allow fit changes without having to re-cable.

 

 

Hammerhead-Equipped

The Red AXS build comes with the all-new Hammerhead Karoo. The Karoo is the perfect companion for big stupid rides, and allows you to pick your preferred route surface (road, gravel) as you explore the limits of a “good idea.”

 

 

RESERVE 42|49

Developed and tested using Turbulent Aero technology, the 42|49 is designed for everything you do, providing all-day capability with aerodynamic sensibilities. Raced at events as varied as the Paris-Roubaix and the Giro D’Italia, the 42|49 wheels have a lifetime warranty supported by a no-fault crash replacement.

 

 

CERVELO CALEDONIA-5

Dura-Ace Di2

 

 

CERVELO CALEDONIA-5

Red AXS

 

 

CERVELO CALEDONIA-5

Ultegra Di2

 

CERVELO CALEDONIA-5

Force AXS

 

CERVELO CALEDONIA-5

Rival AXS

 

 

 

Adventure seekers and gear enthusiasts! Today, we dive into the world of Smith Helmets, a brand that’s been keeping us safe and stylish on our outdoor escapades for years. Whether you’re carving down a snowy slope, bombing down a mountain bike trail, or cruising your local skate park, Smith Helmets have you protected. So, let’s take a leisurely ride through what makes these helmets so awesome.

 

 

A Legacy of Innovation

Smith Optics, the parent company behind Smith Helmets, has been a trailblazer in the outdoor gear industry since 1965. Founded by Dr. Bob Smith, an orthodontist with a passion for skiing, the company initially made waves with their innovative ski goggles. Over the decades, they expanded their expertise to include helmets, bringing the same commitment to quality, innovation, and style.

 

 

Safety First, Always

When it comes to helmets, safety is non-negotiable. Smith Helmets are engineered with cutting-edge technology to ensure maximum protection. Let’s talk about a couple of their standout features:

MIPS Technology: Multi-directional Impact Protection System (MIPS) is a game-changer in helmet design. It reduces rotational forces during impact, which can significantly decrease the risk of brain injuries. Many Smith Helmets are equipped with MIPS, giving you that extra layer of protection.

Aerocore Construction: This unique construction uses Koroyd, a material that absorbs more impact compared to traditional helmet materials. It also enhances ventilation, keeping your head cool and comfortable even during intense activities.

 

 

Style Meets Function

Who says you can’t look good while being safe? Smith Helmets are known for their sleek designs and variety of colours and patterns. Whether you prefer a classic matte black or a bold, vibrant print, there’s a Smith Helmet that matches your style.

Customisable Fit: Comfort is key, and Smith Helmets are designed to fit like a glove. With adjustable features like the VaporFit system, you can easily tweak the helmet to get that perfect fit.

 

 

Eco-Friendly Initiatives

In today’s world, being environmentally conscious is more important than ever. Smith Optics is committed to sustainability, incorporating eco-friendly materials and practices in their production process. Their use of recycled materials and sustainable packaging is a step towards reducing their carbon footprint and protecting the beautiful landscapes we love to explore.

The Smith Experience

What really sets Smith Helmets apart is the community and experience they foster. When you wear a Smith Helmet, you’re joining a family of outdoor enthusiasts who value safety, performance, and adventure. From professional athletes to weekend warriors, Smith Helmets are trusted by those who push the limits and explore new frontiers.

 

 

Conclusion

Whether you’re planning your next big mountain adventure or just gearing up for a casual ride around town, consider a Smith Helmet. With their blend of innovative safety features, stylish designs, and commitment to sustainability, you’re not just buying a helmet—you’re investing in your safety and the future of our planet. Happy adventuring, and remember, the best views come after the hardest climbs. Smith can keep you safe out there.

 

Smith Mainline MIPS MTB Helmet

Made for going big, going fast, or both, the Smith Mainline is the pinnacle, downhill certified enduro bike helmet. Safety innovations like KOROYD™ and Mips® provide energy-absorbing impact protection so you have the confidence to get aggressive on the trail. It doesn’t matter if you’re slaying the EWS in Whistler or suffering through the last stage of your local enduro race, you need a breathable, lightweight helmet that pairs well with goggles and fits like a glove. The Mainline integrates with your bike goggles for efficient venting and fog-free vision. Multiple pad sets including liners and neck-rolls let you customize the fit.

 

Smith Session MIPS MTB Helmet

You earn your ride through the climb, but you’re really in it for the downhill. Our Smith Session helmet is made for the all-mountain rider that wants speed and style in one protective package. The ultralight feel and innovative protection of Koroyd® in strategic, zonal impact areas let you bomb and blaze with confidence. Generous air ports on the top work with internal air channels to provide ventilation that keeps you cool on the uphill and helps maintain your focus in descent mode. Plus, it accommodates easy goggle or eyewear storage so you can sit back and enjoy the view from the top without accidentally smashing your gear.

 

Smith Network MIPS Road Helmet

You’ve always been drawn to the challenge of a new route, a new trail, the thrill of the unexpected. Designed for whatever you get into on two wheels, the Smith Network is our versatile, shred-ready bike helmet. Safety techs like KOROYD® and Mips® offer protection and enhanced energy absorption should you need it. When the sun is blazing and you’re heating up, the ventilation system keeps air flowing and your eyewear fog-free. Later, when the light dips beneath the hills, store your shades in pass-through channels on the front.

 

Wheelbase has a large range of SMITH helmets available to purchase which you can find by clicking here.

Always Up For Another Down

Slash+ brings a boost to the award winning Slash platform with TQ’s award-winning HPR50 drive system. With 170mm of high-pivot suspension, Slash+ is made for the steepest, roughest trails – down or up, thanks to 50nm of instantaneous torque. The magic-carpet feel of Slash+’s rearward axle path and the sublime feel of the TQ system will encourage more laps and longer rides, so it’s a good thing Slash+ comes with TQ’s new 580wh battery for extended ride time. Yes, the battery is still super easy to remove, and yes, it is compatible with the TQ Range Extender.

TQ HPR50 drive system

The same motor that helped Fuel EXe win a bunch of awards is back for more with a bigger 580wh battery on Slash+.

Mind-bending suspension performance

170mm of high-pivot suspension provides insane grip and control. It’s so good, it helped Slash win Bike of the Year, and now you can experience the magic with a helpful boost.

Here for the mullet party

Slash+ is made for the spiciest steeps, so it comes stock with a 27.5 rear wheel that gives you better butt-to-back-wheel clearance.

Ride it how you like it

Tweak your setup for how and where you ride with adjustable leverage rate and angle-adjust headset cups, plus space for big tires, coil shocks, and long droppers.

Extended play

580wh on this motor will get you pretty far, but if that’s not enough, Slash+ is compatible with the TQ Range Extender battery.

CUBE KATHMANDU C:62 SLT 400X

£4,499

When only the best will do, it‘s time to break out Shimano‘s XT components. Famed for their ease of use, precision and dependability, the wide-ranging 1×12 gears and powerful hydraulic disc brakes are the obvious choice for the Kathmandu Hybrid C:62 SLT 400X. Featuring a lightweight C:62 carbon frame which is noticeably lighter when moving the bike around. It’s equipped with Bosch’s new SX motor with a 400wh Battery which provides 55Nm of pedal assistance. Across continents or across town, it’s got your back.

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CUBE TOURING HYBRID PRO 625 TRAPEZE

Was £2899| NOW £2499

 

The Cube Touring Hybrid Pro 625 Easy Entry 2024 is an electric bike designed to offer a blend of comfort, practicality, and performance. Equipped with a Bosch Performance Line Motor which provides a smooth and powerful ride a 625Wh battery proving especially useful for tackling hills and long distances. Hydraulic Brakes and a Shimano Drivetrain round off a wonderful riding experience.

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CUBE TOURING HYBRID PRO 625 EASY ENTRY

was £2,899 | NOW £2,499

The Cube Touring Hybrid series offers Efficient Comfort Geometry and 63mm travel on the front suspension fork. Designed to ensure a comfortable and at the same time controlled ride, even on bumpy roads. All your belongings travel comfortably and safely from A to B on the elegantly designed integrated IC 3.0 luggage rack. A powerful Bosch performance motor assists you uphill and over long distances, the PowerTube battery is fitted into the frame of the bike for a discreet and elegant approach to electric cycling.

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CUBE TOURING HYBRID EXC 625 TRAPEZE

Was £3,399 | Now £2,899

The CUBE TOURING HYBRID EXC 625 Trapeze is an exceptional electric bike designed for those who seek adventure and convenience in their daily commute or weekend explorations. The trapeze frame, characterized by its lower top tube, offers easy mounting and dismounting, making it an ideal choice for riders of all heights and flexibility levels. At the heart of this e-bike is the Bosch Performance Line motor, which provides smooth and consistent power delivery, making it a joy to ride on any terrain. The bike features a suspension fork with 100mm of travel, which effectively absorbs shocks and bumps, providing a smooth and comfortable ride even on rough surfaces.

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With increasing awareness of environmental issues,  Cube Touring Hybrid range offers an eco-friendly alternative to traditional modes of transportation. By choosing to ride an electric bike, you reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a cleaner, greener planet. The e-bike’s efficient motor and long-lasting battery make it a sustainable choice for daily commuting and leisure rides. All of Cubes Hybrid touring bikes come equipped with a sturdy rear rack, making it easy to carry shopping, bags, or even camping gear. Full-length mudguards protect you from splashes and dirt, keeping you clean and dry during your rides. The bike also includes a kickstand, making parking hassle-free. The range has proven to be a massive success with customer of wheelbase and it isn’t difficult to see why.

BRAGE X BURGTEC | Penthouse MK5 B-Rage Edition

 

Flat Pedals were the first product Burgtec ever made and 20 years later they are still loved by many all over the world. The B-rage pedal was born from the way Brage rides. Burgtec were pushed to think about how the classic Mk5 pedal could be fine tuned to give him everything he wanted.

 

 

Burgtec and Brage say that size and weight was unimportant, they weren’t looking at how those numbers stacked up. Strength, grip and longevity were the only points on the agenda and the result is the Burgtec Penthouse Mk5 B-Rage Edition.

Bigger & Burlier.

 

 

Width and Q Factor has stayed the same but the B-Rage Edition adds an extra 12mm of length front to back, allowing for a stomping 112mm x 102mm platform. The larger platform allows for more support on the biggest of hits.

 

 

Centre pins are also present on the B-Rage Edition Penthouse MK5, something Burgtec hasn’t done since the MK1 was released 20 years ago. They’ve added a pad with 3 extra pins for even more grip. The more force you put through the pedal the more grip you’re rewarded with.

 

 

Internally the pedal is configured in the exact same way as the MK5. So mud and water ingress are kept at bay while grease is kept in. Longevity is the cornerstone of all the products Burgtec make and the MK5 B-Rage Edition keeps that tradition alive so that service intervals don’t interrupt the send.

 

Weight: 513g (pair)

Platform Material: 7075 Alloy

Profile: 18mm

Platform: 112mm x 102mm

Dish: 3mm (concave)

Pin Material: Stainless Steel (11 per side)

Pin Width: 4mm

Pin Height: 5mm

Axle Material: EN24T Steel

Internals: 2 x Igus W300 bushes, single sealed bearing and inboard rubber oil seal

Colours: Burgtec Black, Race Red, Deep Blue, Purple Rain, Kash Bronze, Iron Bro Orange, Rhodium Silver, Burgtec Bullion, Toxic Barbie Pink

Available to buy in store or online from Wheelbase.co.uk

 

 

For as long as we can remember, hardtails have been the backbone of Merida. The hardtail is for many, the first step into the exciting world of off-road riding. The last generation hit the trails on 29er wheels, with 140 mm of fork travel and progressive hardtail geometry. Loved by the international cycling press and hardtail riders alike, the Big Trail has made a name for itself and enjoyed great popularity.  However, similar to the short-travel full-suspension bikes, riders are looking to tackle even more challenging trails on their trail hardtails. Here’s what Merida had to say about the All New Merida Big Trail;

THE ORIGINAL CONCEPT

Originally developed on the back of a napkin by our R&D team, Merida UK and some of the UK’s most knowledgeable dealers, the Big Trail had a rather unconventional start to life.
The aim was to create a super capable trail hardtail with progressive geometry, featuring 29er wheels, long travel forks, dropper posts and trail-ready components. The result is more affordable, easier to set up and requires less maintenance than a full suspension bike. Entering the world of trail riding, the Big Trail featured a slack 65.5° head angle and a steep seat angle, both of which made it a solid descender even when the trail was littered with roots and rocks while maintaining impressive climbing ability due to the central seating position over the bottom bracket. It featured internal cable routing, bottle bosses for two bottles, trail-ready tyre clearance, and long insertion depth for dropper posts, paving the way for upsizing or downsizing, allowing riders to find the perfect size for the riding characteristics they were looking for.

 

PROGRESSIVE GEOMETRY

As well as bringing the frame size into line with the existing MTB range, the Big Trail’s already progressive geometry has been refined to further improve handling on steep and challenging terrain. Comparing size to size (e.g. the outgoing Medium to the new Mid), the reach has increased, as tests have shown how much impact this has on the stability of a trail bike. In line with the extended reach, we have increased the stack, allowing the front wheel to be easily popped without making the bike feel too stretched. The seat tube remains short for a super low stand over height and is now straight for maximum insertion depth, allowing long travel dropper posts to be fitted, even on smaller frame sizes. This gives the rider more room to manoeuvre over the bike; a huge advantage when the terrain becomes more challenging.

AFFORDABLE PRICING

A key factor in the development of the outgoing Big Trail was that it should offer impressive performance, handling and capability at a great price. With the introduction of new frame features and updated geometry, the Big Trail will continue to offer amazing trail performance at an affordable price.

WHO IS IT FOR?

The original Big Trail design brief had several key elements; impeccable trail performance at an aggressive price point with everyday versatility thrown in. The bike was aimed at customers who enjoy challenging trails and tracks but don’t want to stretch their budget or prefer the simplicity and easy maintenance of a hardtail. The Big Trail undoubtedly catered well for this customer group, as demonstrated by the long list of top test results, magazine and website recommendations and awards. The new Big Trail continues to deliver on the trail with updates that make it even more capable, versatile and fun to ride.

NOTABLE FEATURES

DURABILITY
+ Extra-long chainstay and seat stay protection
+ Possibility to add a long fender
+ Tested to exceed Zedler Advanced for ASTM category 4 (Trail and enduro use, including racing)

AGILOMETER – THE RIGHT SIZE FOR ALL RIDING STYLES
+ Frame grows mainly in reach and the seat tube remains relatively constant
+ Long head tube for a more upright position despite the long reach. The higher front end allows the rider to sit more upright on the bike, making it easier to see further ahead
+ Short seat tube keeps stand over height low, allowing shorter riders to go for a longer, more stable frame size
+ Riders can choose between frame reaches – depending on their riding preference.

STORAGE AND MOUNTING SOLUTIONS
+ Trail Mount fixing point underneath the top tube allows additional tools and spares to be attached to the bike
+ Two fixing points for water bottles on the downtube
+ Hidden fixing points for a rear rack, rear fender (Merida long rear fender) and a kickstand
+ Merida V-Mount Multitool under the saddle
+ 4/6 mm Allen key

EASY MAINTENANCE
+ Improved internal cable routing through the Wire Port
+ Reliable ACROS headset (also allows easy bearing exchange through specific 2-piece top cap configuration)
+ Focus on service and interchangeability for the specs (e.g., SRAM UDH, BSA BB)

SILENT
+ New two-component chainstay protector and additional inner seat stay protector
+ Noise-reducing cable routing through foam sleeves
+ ISCG05 guide mounts offer extra chain security if needed

 

Wire Port
Most cables, including gear, rear brake and dropper post cables, enter the frame through a specifically designed 2-piece headset cover, creating a clutter-free cockpit and reducing cable rattle. The ACROS parts of the Wire Port system offer impressive longevity due to their sophisticated seals allowing quick and easy bearing replacement and cable maintenance when the time comes.
Trail MountThe addition of a Trail Mount provides an extra mounting point under the top tube.
Sram UDH
Now a standard on modern mountain bikes, the SRAM UDH hanger is readily available, aids shifting and is ready to work with the latest SRAM drivetrains.

Tyre clearance
Up to 2.4″ wide trail and enduro tyres can be fitted, providing plenty of grip, traction and comfort. Brake mount and axle standard 148×12 mm Boost axle is standard and 180 mm Post Mount direct rear brakes are well protected inside the rear triangle.
Rider protection
For additional frame and rider protection, the optional long rear fender, as seen on the One-Sixty, can be fitted to the wishbone section of the rear triangle.
Moulded 2-component chain stay protector
Trail hardtails are particularly sensitive to chain slap on rough trails. As a result, riding on a demanding trail
can be a noisy affair. To make the Big Trail one of the quietest trail hardtails on the market we’ve gone the extra
mile, developing an elaborate, highly effective chainstay protector. This is made from two different plastics; a
hard one provides shape and rigidity enabling it to be fitted to the chainstay without glueing, and a softer material on the outside for more damping when the chain hits. In addition to the soft outer material, we’ve added air pockets to further increase the sound-deadening abilities. The rear of the chainstay protector minimises heel rub which can be an issue for riders with larger feet, particularly when using flat pedals.
Built in versatility
Whilst at home on tracks and trails, the Big Trail is also perfect for everyday use such as commuting to school or work. With this in mind, hidden fixing points for fenders (available separately), a rear rack and even an off the shelf kickstand.

Shop The All New Merida Big Trail II Range At Wheelbase.co.uk – Available To Pre-Order NOW

EVERY RIDE’S BETTER WITH AN EDGE^® 1050 BIKE COMPUTER

BATTERY THAT’S READY FOR THE RIDE

In demanding use cases, get up to 20 hours, or get up to 60 hours in battery saver mode

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ROAD HAZARD ALERTS

Get alerts for road hazards reported by fellow cyclists, and contribute your own edits.

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GROUPRIDE

Stay connected on group rides¹ with in-ride messaging, live locations and incident detection alerts²; plus, add fun and competition with in-ride leaderboards for climbs and post-ride awards.

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EVENT ADAPTIVE TRAINING

 

When it’s time to focus on training, Edge 1050 delivers. It works seamlessly with our free Garmin training plans for cyclists. Event adaptive training delivers personalised workouts that adapt to your performance and recovery

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BUILT IN SPEAKER

Hear workout and navigation verbal prompts, and alert riders and pedestrians ahead of you with a loud on-device bike bell.

 

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The new premium Garmin Edge® 1050 GPS cycling computer features a vivid colour touchscreen display, allowing you to see your maps and stats in stunning detail. To ensure uninterrupted cycling, it offers up to 20 hours of battery life in the most demanding use cases and up to 60 hours in battery saver mode. Receive alerts for road hazards reported by fellow cyclists and enjoy in-ride messaging, leaderboards, and more for group rides when paired with your compatible smartphone and the Garmin Connect™ app.

When it’s time to focus on individual training for a race or personal goal, the Edge 1050 excels. It works seamlessly with Garmin’s free training plans for cyclists. Event adaptive training delivers personalised workouts that adapt to your performance, recovery, and more when used with your compatible power meter and heart rate monitor. A built-in speaker provides clear workout and navigation prompts, plus a bike bell to alert riders and pedestrians.

Additionally, the Edge 1050 features Garmin Pay™ contactless payments (with a supported bank), making that post-ride latte a little sweeter.

GARMIN EDGE 1050 INCLUDES

• Edge 1050 GPS Cycling Computer
• Flush Out-Front Mount
• Standard Mount
• Tether
• Charging/data cable
• Documentation

The National Road Championships week begins on Wednesday 19th June with the National Time Trial Championship kicking of proceedings at 9am, starting and finishing in Catterick.Circuit racing will then follow on Friday 21st June in Darlington town centre, where the action from The Women’s and Open National Crit Championship will be a stone’s throw from our Darlington store. Come and watch our very own British Cycling Elite race team in action as Wheelbase CabTech Castelli compete for the National Champions Trophy aboard their Cannondale SuperSix Evos! 

 

 

 

The events will then conclude with the road races, which will once again start and finish in Saltburn on Sunday 23rd June. The sporting course that has been devised for this year’s event is a modified version of the 2023 route, with fewer climbs, and will pass through the picturesque seafront town each lap before heading out to take on the rolling terrain of the Tees Valley. Again, our Elite team Wheelbase CabTech Castelli will be racing for the Trophy. 

 

The atmosphere promises to be electric once again, so pop the dates in your diary and we’ll see you there!