A Deep Dive into Tom Martin’s Cannondale SuperX Gravel Race Bike

Just ahead of the Gravel National Championships Elite Race Tom Martin talked us through his race bike.

 

Watch our Cannondale SuperX bike check video.

 

With the road season barely over, Wheelbase CabTech Castelli rider Tom Martin headed straight to Scotland for the inaugural Gravel National Championships in Ae Forest, Scotland.

Fresh from finishing second overall in the National Road Series behind teammate Tom Armstrong, Martin arrived carrying excellent form into his short gravel season which would also see him racing at the European Championships in Belgium, the UCI Gravel World Series in Ruthin, Wales and sea Otter Europe in Girona, Spain.

Ahead of the Gravel National Championships, we took a closer look at his Cannondale SuperX and discussed the setup choices he believes will give him the best chance of success on one of the biggest gravel races of the year.

 

A Familiar Feel

For Martin, one of the keys to transitioning quickly from road racing to gravel is maintaining a familiar riding position and handling feel.

The Cannondale SuperX shares much of its DNA with the SuperSix he rides throughout the road season, allowing him to move between disciplines with minimal adaptation.

“The geometry is very similar to my road bike,” he explains. “The gravel bike is slightly shorter, which helps with handling and makes it a little more agile, but it’s also much more compliant and comfortable.”

The similarity goes beyond race preparation. Living and training in the Lake District, Martin regularly uses the SuperX for road rides as well, taking advantage of its ability to smooth out rough, unpredictable lanes.

 

SRAM XPLR 13-Speed One-By Drivetrain

For 2026, Martin has opted for a SRAM one-by setup paired with the latest 13-speed cassette.

While the simplicity of a single chainring has obvious advantages in racing, the main reason for the switch was tyre clearance.

“Last year I was running a two-by setup, which limited me to a 45mm rear tyre. Moving to the one-by gives me significantly more clearance and allows me to run tyres up to 50mm if I need to.”

The simplified drivetrain also removes one more decision during racing.

“In gravel, there’s already so much happening. Having one less thing to think about when selecting gears is definitely a benefit.”

To maximise reliability, Martin runs a chain guide after experiencing chain drops during particularly rough sections at The Gralloch earlier in the season.

“The issues only really happened in extremely rough conditions, but having a chain guide gives a bit of extra peace of mind.”

 

 

Road-Derived Cockpit Setup

Continuity is a recurring theme throughout Martin’s bike build, and his cockpit setup is no exception.

The handlebars are exactly the same as those used on his road bike, helping maintain consistency in position, comfort and control.

Keeping touch points identical allows Martin to move seamlessly between bikes throughout the year without making significant positional adjustments.

 

Manuka Cycleworks Wheels and Panaracer GravelKing Tyres

Wheel and tyre selection can often make or break a gravel race, particularly at an event such as the National Championships where every watt matters.

Martin’s choice is a set of 50mm carbon wheels from Manuka Cycleworks, featuring a wide internal rim width designed to better support modern gravel tyres.

“The wheels are actually the same depth as I use on the road. The wider internal width works really well with larger gravel tyres and provides excellent support.”

For Ae, he chose Panaracer’s GravelKing X1 R in a 45mm width, prioritising outright speed over additional puncture protection.

The tyre features an extremely fast-rolling centre section with more aggressive shoulder knobs to provide grip when cornering on loose surfaces.

“It’s their lightest and fastest casing. There’s almost no tread through the centre, which keeps rolling resistance low, while the side knobs still give plenty of confidence in the corners.”

With dry weather forecast and a relatively fast course expected, Martin was willing to accept a little additional puncture risk in exchange for reduced weight and faster rolling speeds.

“It’s definitely an all-in choice for this race, but the conditions should suit it perfectly.”

 

Race-Day Puncture Strategy

Even with a lightweight tyre setup, Martin had no intention of being caught out by a puncture.

His race-day toolkit is deliberately minimal but designed for speed.

A tubeless repair kit will be taped to the stem along with a CO₂ cartridge on the frame, allowing rapid repairs without searching through pockets.

“If I do puncture, everything is ready to go and easy to reach.”

As a backup solution, Martin also carries an SKS electric pump in a jersey pocket.

Importantly, he approaches any mechanical issue with a calm mindset.

“There’s no point panicking. If something happens, you just deal with it as quickly and calmly as possible. You’ll always recover better if you stay composed.”

 

Hydration and Fuel

Unlike some gravel racers, Martin won’t be using a hydration pack for the 90km National Championships course.

Instead, he plans to rely on conventional bottle cages and large-capacity OTE bottles.

With only two laps to complete, he believes carrying excessive hydration would simply be unnecessary weight.

“There’ll be plenty of fuel available from two large bottles, and I can always pick one up through the feed if I need to.”

 

Confidence Heading into the Nationals

After an outstanding road season and several strong gravel results throughout the year, including a top ten finish at The Gralloch, Martin headed into the Gravel National Championships full of confidence.

“I believe I’ve got good legs,” he says. “I’ve been in the right moves all season and had some good results on the gravel as well. It would be nice to put together a really strong ride tomorrow.”

With proven form, a carefully considered bike setup and favourable conditions forecast, Martin was undoubtedly one of the riders to watch; he would go on to take an excellent 6^th place from a two-up sprint for the line with his Cannondale SuperX performing flawlessly without any mechanicals or punctures.

NEW: Scott Spark DC | First Ride in Lenzerheide

We were lucky enough to get our hands on the brand new Scott Spark DC out in Lenzerheide, Switzerland. Watch the video or get a deeper dive with the rest of this blog post! Downcountry gets another notch on its belt – the Spark DC is one hell of a bike.

Shop Scott Spark DC at Wheelbase.co.uk

 

Chris’s Ride Review

I am a huge fan of my trail bike (160mm/142mm) and couldn’t wait to ride this new super-lightweight platform and see how it compared to something a little bigger.

I thought this bike was going to feel and handle like an XC bike. Having spent a few days riding it across all terrain from bikepark to high alpine – it has that responsive XC bike feel on flat/climbing sections where maintaining speed is key. Pumping and aggressive cornering is highly rewarded, the bike responds giving you huge amounts of speed through sections where you want to go faster.

When you point it downhill and open the taps, it feels like a trail bike. What was most surprising about this bike was the amount of grip. Speaking to the engineers behind the bike, they learnt a lot from the Spark over the years, and it’s one of Scott’s best-selling bikes for a reason. The DC utilises a low pivot point, with all the moving parts, strength and carbon layup focused into one single area, they are able to make this bike insanely light, as the rest of the bike needs very little material to keep its strength. While this is the first thing you’ll notice about the Spark, the weight. In my opinion the weight is the secondary benefit, and grip is the main benefit. What exactly causes it, I’ve no idea. Whether it’s the flexstay moving in the final 50% of the bike’s travel or the low pivot point allowing the wheels to yaw, some kind of magic is at work with the rear end of this bike. The bike comes specced with Maxxis Aspen EXO on the rear and a Forekaster on the front. While suitable for the bike’s intended use case, I do not associate this tyre combo with unlimited grip. Fast rolling yes, but grip? I set off fairly steady feeling out the bike, but by the end of the first lap –  I was comfortable picking high lines and less grippy lines whenever I wanted. Credit to the engineers at Scott for this magic ride feel.

SRAM Motive’s are the perfect choice for this bike, keeping that weight low while providing plenty of stopping power. My first time riding them will not be my last!

If climbing all day, the bike’s weight will also be a huge advantage – coupled with Flight Attendant this is a FAST bike, and covered up a lack of aerobic capacity on my end. Grip, reward for pumping and aggression and a climb-all-day feel is a hell of a combination.

 

Scott Spark DC | Features

Shock Cover / Save The Day Toolkit

A magnetic cover protects the shock from dirt and grit, don’t worry it’s dead silent and isn’t going anywhere. Save The Day Toolkit is tucked away under the bike’s magnetic shock cover. While the bike is insanely light Scott have made sure its a bike that can be ridden all day and you’ll never be caught short without an allen key. included in the toolkit is:  xxxxx

 

Cable Routing

2 options available: run it as it comes with the cables routed through the headset for the cleanest silhouette or if that’s putting you off, the rectangular Scott badge comes off and is replaced by another cover which the cables can run through the frame. Nice.

 

Flexstays

A word that has always sounded like a weakness, proves itself in mountain biking yet again on the Spark DC. Grip, lots of grip! It negates the need for a pivot point on the chainstay which both keeps the weight down and the helps the back end delivers grip through the off camber and corners. The handling is 10/10.

 

 

Spark DC 10

Specifications

• HMF carbon frame
• 140 mm front travel
• 135 mm rear travel
• Low centre-of-mass chassis
• RockShox Pike and SIDLuxe XL with Flight Attendant
• SRAM X0 Eagle AXS Transmission
• Syncros Silverton CF2 wheels
• Integrated frame storage
• Internally routed cockpit

Shop Now | £8199

 

Spark DC 20

Specifications

• HMF carbon frame
• 140 mm front travel
• 135 mm rear travel
• Low centre-of-mass chassis
• Fox 36SL fork
• Fox Float Factory shock
• Shimano XT Di2 wireless drivetrain
• Syncros Silverton AL2 wheels
• Integrated frame storage
• Bikepacking-ready mounts

Shop Now | £5499

 

Spark DC 30

Specifications

• HMF carbon frame
• 140 mm front travel
• 135 mm rear travel
• Low centre-of-mass chassis
• RockShox Pike Select fork
• RockShox Deluxe Traction shock
• SRAM S1000 Eagle AXS Transmission
• Syncros Silverton AL2 wheels
• Integrated frame storage
• Bikepacking-ready mounts

Shop Now | £4499

Spark DC 40

Specifications

• HMF carbon frame
• 140 mm front travel
• 135 mm rear travel
• Low centre-of-mass chassis
• RockShox Pike fork
• RockShox Deluxe Traction shock
• Shimano Deore 12 speed drivetrain
• Integrated frame storage
• Bikepacking-ready mounts

Shop Now | £3499

Yeti MT | Riding the Perfect UK Trail Bike

We headed out for a test ride on the brand new Yeti MT. Conditions were very slick, wet and loads of fun. If you’re looking for a one bike does-it-all, you’re in the right place.

 

Watch the video here.

 

Riding the Yeti MT

The T-Series carbon has a lovely ride feel to it, and backs up the premium price point instantly. It’s takes out a lot of vibrations and noise from the bike when you’re riding the jank. The carbon frame is reinforced with Vectran® liquid crystal polymer fibres. Vectran is used in the Mars Rover, no joke! Combine this with Yeti’s undeniable build quality and you have yourself a frame fit for kings. More importantly, it’s absolutely stunning! The seat tube angle is nice and steep, keeping you in a all-day riding position and it climbs really well. While the Switch Infinity link used on Yeti’s of the past was innovative and provided an amazing platform, it was never the best for the UK and all the grit and grime that comes with winter riding. The Sixfininty design gets rid of the need for the extra Kashima, and gives the frame designers a little more wiggle room. The Fox Float shock is custom tuned so just keep an eye on your pressures, it may run slightly different to what you’re used to. It’s a lively ride-feel. You are rewarding for pushing power through the pedals or pumping/jumping into transitions, which is what you want from a trail bike!

 

Features

160/140mm

29″ Wheels

New T-Series carbon lay-up featuring Vectran® liquid crystal fibres: increased impact resistance & quieter ride

Integrated Frame Storage

Integrated Airtag Mount

Choose between the 3 suspension settings: 10%, 15% or 20% leverage curves.

Updated Geometry

Updated Chainstay Protection

 

Leverage Curve

10%, 15% or 20% choose poppy and playful or stable and predictable, one bike fits all whether you are racing Ard Rock or boosting jumps.

Builds

Yeti MT XO AXS

£9099

Yeti MT XO/90

£7499

 

When Can I Get a Yeti MT?

Stock is expected to arrive in October, we don’t have an exact date on the day of writing this blog. If you would like to pre-order or be notified please visit the Yeti MT product page. Thanks!

 

First Ride: The All-New Scott Addict Gravel | Lenzerheide, Switzerland

We recently spent some time with SCOTT in Lenzerheide, Switzerland as they showcased their full range of 2027 bikes, giving us the lowdown on their newest models and giving us the chance to demo some of their most exciting bikes in a beautiful Alpine location. After spending a couple of days test-riding their all-new Spark mountain bikes we swapped flowing singletrack for some of the best local gravel riding trails and put the all-new Addict Gravel through its paces.

SCOTT Addict Gravel test ride in Lenzerheide.

 

At first glance, the new Addict Gravel looks every bit the performance-focused gravel race bike. With its lightweight carbon frame, carbon wheelset and purposeful geometry, it’s undeniably fast and responsive. Look a little closer, however, and you’ll find a bike that’s designed to do far more than pin on a race number.

 

A major focus for Scott’s engineers was improving comfort. The new frame incorporates additional compliance through the rear triangle, while a distinctive bow-legged fork helps absorb vibrations and impacts at the front of the bike. The result is a ride that feels noticeably smoother without sacrificing the sharp handling and efficiency riders expect from the Addict name.

 

Another standout feature is the bike’s versatility. There are mounting points on the frame and fork for bike packing luggage, making the Addict Gravel equally at home on multi-day adventures as it is on fast gravel loops. Whether you’re planning a lightweight ‘credit card’ bike-packing trip or simply want extra storage for longer rides, the capability is built in.

 

Perhaps the biggest surprise was the tyre clearance. Our test bikes were fitted with 50mm tyres, which completely transformed what the bike was capable of. Running lower tubeless pressures brings extra comfort, grip and confidence, allowing you to tackle rougher terrain without losing the lively feel of a drop-bar bike. Better still, the new Addict Gravel accepts tyres up to 57mm wide, opening the door to terrain that would previously have been reserved for a mountain bike.

 

Combined with wide-range gearing and a simple single-chainring setup, the Addict Gravel is ready for everything from steep alpine climbs to loaded bike-packing adventures.

 

After spending time on the trails around Lenzerheide, one thing is clear: the all-new Scott Addict Gravel successfully blends the speed and efficiency of a gravel race bike with the comfort and capability of a mountain bike. It’s fast when you want it to be, comfortable when the ride gets rough, and versatile enough to take you far beyond the end of the tarmac.

The SCOTT Addict Gravel is available in-store and online at wheelbase.co.uk

 

SCOTT Addict Gravel 10 £5799

 

SCOTT Addict Gravel 20 £4999

 

SCOTT Addict Gravel 30 £3499

 

SCOTT Addict Gravel 40 £2499

Whyte Secta‑E: Amplify Every Ride

A new generation of electric hardtails

The Whyte Secta‑E is an all‑new electric hardtail built to amplify your riding. It’s designed for riders who want more from every mile. More speed, more trails, more range, more quality time and more enjoyment. Powered by the Avinox full‑torque drive system and built around a tough aluminium frame, the Secta‑E brings cutting‑edge e‑MTB performance into a simple, versatile and high value package.

Whether you ride trails, gravel paths, woodland loops, canal routes or daily miles, the Secta‑E makes every ride feel easier and more rewarding. It’s a bike that turns effort into momentum and curiosity into adventure.

 

 

Shop Whyte Secta-E

Shop Whyte Secta-E SUV

 

The Power of Avinox

Full torque. Full power. Full control.

At the heart of the Secta‑E is the Avinox M2 drive unit. It delivers 120Nm of torque and 1000W peak power with five ride modes including Auto and Boost. The system responds instantly and smoothly, giving you confident acceleration on climbs, loose ground and long-distance terrain.

The Avinox DPC100 OLED display sits cleanly in the top tube, paired with a wireless bar controller for a tidy cockpit. The system also connects to the Avinox Ride app for deeper insight and control.

Battery capacity is generous. Sizes S to XL use an 800Wh internal battery. Size XS uses a 600Wh internal battery. Both options offer long-range capability for all-day exploring.

Built Around a Strong Aluminium Frame

Modern geometry for mixed terrain

The Secta‑E uses a fully featured 6061 T6 aluminium frame with multi-shaped tubing, a tapered head tube and full dropper post insertion. It’s designed for strength, stability and comfort on varied terrain. The frame also uses a UDH dropout for easy drivetrain compatibility and future-proofing.

Geometry is balanced for confident handling. Smooth on gravel, composed on woodland trails and predictable on everyday routes.

Suspension and Control

130mm air fork for smooth riding

A Suntour XCR36X air fork provides 130mm of travel with adjustable compression and rebound. It keeps the ride controlled on rough ground and comfortable on longer days out. The fork is paired with smooth-rolling 29er wheels on sizes S to XL and 27.5in wheels on size XS.

Tyres vary by model. The Secta‑E uses Maxxis Rekon 2.6in tyres for grip and comfort on loose surfaces.

Four-piston Tektro brakes with large rotors deliver strong, consistent stopping power.

Drivetrain and Components

Reliable performance for everyday use

Shimano CUES 1×10 shifting offers a wide gear range for mixed terrain. A Whyte dropper post with size-specific drop keeps the bike adaptable for climbs and descents. The cockpit uses Whyte’s own bar, stem and grips for a comfortable and stable fit.

Every detail is chosen for durability, simplicity and real-world performance.

 

Who the Secta‑E Range is For

A versatile e-hardtail for real-world riding

The Secta‑E suits riders who want a powerful, long-range electric hardtail for mixed terrain. It works for trail riding, commuting, leisure riding and all-day adventures. The SUV model adds everyday practicality for riders who want a fully equipped e-SUV style package.

Both bikes share the same idea. Amplify your enjoyment. Amplify your everyday.

Shop Avinox M2 Mountain Bikes | Shop Avinox M2S Mountain Bikes | Shop Electric Hybrid Bikes | Shop Electric Mountain Bikes

The New Nukeproof Tracker Hardtail Range

A simple, versatile hardtail built for everyday riders

The Nukeproof Tracker brings the soul of mountain biking back to the hardtail. It’s a range designed around simplicity, durability and real world riding. Every model shares the same tough aluminium frame, modern geometry and practical features, giving riders a bike that feels stable for beginners and responsive for experienced riders.

It’s built for mixed terrain. Forest loops, gravel paths, woodland trails, city miles and weekend exploring. The Tracker keeps things fun, predictable and easy to live with. A hardtail for everyday riders. A tool for every terrain. A bike that reminds you why you started.

The Tracker range is available in both 27.5″ and 29″ wheels. You’ll find 275 in the product title of the 27.5″ bikes (XS & S) and 290 in the title of the bikes that have 29″ wheels (M,L,XL)

The range starts at £539, with four builds:

• Tracker Sport – £539
• Tracker Race – £629
• Tracker Comp – £849
• Tracker Pro – £999

Shop Nukeproof Tracker

Below is a full breakdown of what makes the Tracker platform special, followed by a model‑by‑model overview.

The Tracker Frame

Modern geometry. Real world durability.

At the heart of every Tracker is a 6061 T6 aluminium frame built for mixed terrain. The geometry balances stability and agility, keeping the bike predictable on uneven ground and comfortable on longer rides. Wide tyre clearance and a tapered head tube add steering confidence and control.

Practicality is built in. Mounting points for racks, stands and mudguards make the Tracker suitable for commuting, bikepacking and everyday use. It’s a frame designed to be ridden often and ridden anywhere.

Suspension

Smooth, simple and easy to set up

The Tracker range uses reliable suspension forks chosen for comfort and control on rough tracks and gravel paths. Travel ranges from 80 to 100 mm depending on the model, with coil or air options to suit different riders.

• Suntour XCE28 on Sport and Race
• RockShox Judy Silver TK on Comp
• RockShox Judy Silver Air on Pro

Each fork offers straightforward adjustments to fine tune the ride for climbs, mixed terrain and rider preference.

Drivetrain and Brakes

Dependable performance for everyday riding

All Tracker models use Shimano drivetrains for simple, reliable shifting. Gear ranges are chosen for mixed terrain, from easy climbs to steady miles on gravel and tarmac.

Braking is handled by Shimano MT200 hydraulic brakes across the range. They deliver consistent stopping power with low maintenance needs, ideal for daily use.

Wheels and Tyres

Confidence on loose ground and uneven terrain

Every Tracker rolls on 29 inch wheels for stability and smooth rolling. Tyres vary by model but all offer grip and comfort on loose surfaces.

• Kenda Booster 29 x 2.4 on Sport and Race
• Maxxis Rekon 29 x 2.4 on Comp and Pro

Both options are chosen for mixed terrain riding, with the Rekon offering tubeless ready performance on the higher models.

The Tracker Range Model Breakdown

Tracker Sport  £539

Simple, capable and ready for everyday adventures

The Sport is the entry point to the Tracker range. It keeps things straightforward with a coil fork, an 8 speed drivetrain and dependable hydraulic brakes. It’s built for riders who want a tough, versatile hardtail for forest trails, gravel paths and daily miles.

Key Features

• 6061 T6 aluminium frame
• Suntour XCE28 100 mm fork
• Shimano ESSA 1 x 8 drivetrain
• Shimano MT200 hydraulic brakes
• Kenda Booster 29 x 2.4 tyres
• Mounting points for racks, stands and mudguards

Shop Nukeproof Tracker 290 Sport | Shop Nukeproof Tracker 275 Sport

Tracker Race – £629

A confident hardtail for mixed terrain

The Race adds a wider gear range and upgraded components while keeping the same versatile frame. It’s a solid choice for riders who want a bit more capability on varied terrain.

Key Features

• 6061 T6 aluminium frame
• Suntour XCE28 100 mm fork
• Shimano CUES 1 x 9 drivetrain
• Shimano MT200 hydraulic brakes
• Kenda Booster 29 x 2.4 tyres
• 740 mm handlebar and 40 mm stem

Shop Nukeproof Tracker 290 Race | Shop Nukeproof Tracker 275 Race

Tracker Comp – £849

A more refined ride with upgraded suspension

The Comp steps up to a RockShox Judy Silver TK fork and a 10 speed Shimano CUES drivetrain. It’s designed for riders who want smoother suspension performance and a wider gear range for mixed terrain.

Key Features

• 6061 T6 aluminium frame
• RockShox Judy Silver TK 100 mm fork
• Shimano CUES 1 x 10 drivetrain
• Shimano MT200 hydraulic brakes
• Maxxis Rekon 29 x 2.4 tyres
• Practical frame mounts for racks and mudguards

Shop Nukeproof Tracker 290 Comp | Shop Nukeproof Tracker 275 Comp

Nukeproof Tracker Pro – £999

The top build with air suspension and 11 speed gearing

The Pro is the most capable model in the range. It uses an air‑sprung RockShox Judy Silver fork and an 11 speed Shimano CUES drivetrain for smoother control and a broader gear range. It’s built for riders who want the best balance of comfort, efficiency and versatility.

Key Features

• 6061 T6 aluminium frame
• RockShox Judy Silver Air 80 mm fork
• Shimano CUES 1 x 11 drivetrain
• Shimano MT200 hydraulic brakes
• Maxxis Rekon 29 x 2.4 tyres
• 720 mm handlebar and 40 mm stem

Why the Tracker Range Works

A hardtail for everyday riders

The Nukeproof Tracker range is built around real world riding. It’s simple, durable and versatile, with models that suit new riders, returning riders and anyone who wants a hardtail that can handle mixed terrain without fuss.

Every model shares the same core idea: a bike that’s fun, predictable and easy to live with. A hardtail that feels at home on forest trails, gravel paths, woodland loops and daily miles. A bike that reminds you why you started.

Shop the full Nukeproof Tracker range at Wheelbase.co.uk. 

 

Why Choose Wheelbase

Trusted service. Real expertise. Riders first.

Wheelbase is built around a simple idea: give riders the right bikes, the right support and a service they can rely on. Our team lives and breathes cycling, and every bike we stock is chosen with care. We focus on clear information, honest guidance and long term support, so you always know what you are getting.

Our workshop is run by experienced mechanics who treat every bike as if it were their own. From pre delivery checks to future servicing, your bike is looked after properly. We also keep parts and spares in stock to keep you riding without delay.

We invest in accurate product data, detailed specifications and transparent messaging. No gimmicks. No misleading claims. Just clear information that helps you make confident decisions.

Wheelbase has been part of the UK cycling community for decades. Riders trust us because we stay consistent, we stay knowledgeable and we stay focused on what matters: good bikes, good service and support you can count on.

Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli take to the Gravel at AE Forest

We recently headed north to Scotland for the inaugural Gravel National Championships, held on the stunning gravel roads of Ae in Dumfries and Galloway. Fresh from their most successful road racing season to date, a select group of Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli riders swapped their road bikes for gravel machines and lined up to contest the first official Gravel National Championship jersey in the history of this rapidly growing discipline.

Watch Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli in action at AE Forest

 

In the Elite race Tom Martin and Dexter Leeming-Sykes worked well together for the duration of the hilly 8okm two lap race with Martin finishing 6^th in a sprint for the line followed by Leeming-Sykes, just 8 seconds behind, in 7^th place.

Meanwhile in the Open 40-44yrs category former 3 Peaks Cyclocross Champion rode strongly throughout the race to take the win, showing great form ahead of the 2026 edition of the Peaks coming up in September. Scottish ‘local’ Davie Lines took a brilliant top 10 in the Open 45-49yrs category finishing in 8^th place.

Elite Race

Tom Martin 6^th

Dexter Leeming-Skyes 7^th

Open 40-44yrs

Giles Drake 1^st

Open 45-49yrs

Davie Lines 8^th

 

Same price, significant upgrade for 2027 – introducing the Reaction Hybrid Pro 800 2027

Five fast facts about the new Cube Reaction Hybrid Pro 800 2027

 

Cube Reaction Hybrid Pro 800 2027: What’s New?

At first glance, the Cube Reaction Hybrid Pro 800 2027 looks very similar to the outgoing 2026 model, and that’s no bad thing. The Reaction Hybrid has become one of Cube’s most popular hardtail e-MTBs thanks to its blend of comfort, capability and impressive Bosch-powered performance.

So what’s changed for 2027?

The biggest update is the move to a RockShox Recon Silver RL suspension fork, replacing the SR Suntour fork found on the previous model. It’s a significant upgrade that brings improved control, smoother performance and greater confidence when riding rougher trails and uneven terrain.

Everything else that made the Reaction Hybrid Pro such a great all-rounder remains firmly in place. You still get Bosch’s powerful Performance Line CX motor with up to 120Nm of torque, a huge 800Wh integrated battery, Shimano XT gearing, four-piston hydraulic disc brakes and a dropper post as standard.

Rather than reinventing an already successful bike, Cube has focused on improving the component that riders are most likely to notice on the trail.

In the video above, we break down five fast facts about the new Cube Reaction Hybrid Pro 800 2027 and explain exactly why this latest version could be the best Reaction Hybrid yet.

2026 North Yorkshire Grand Prix, Season Finale

 

One small step for Armstrong, One Giant Leap for Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli.

Tom Armstrong completed a historic season for Wheelbase CabTech Castelli at the final round of the National Road Series in Ampleforth, North Yorkshire, claiming the overall title after a campaign characterised by outstanding consistency, race craft and determination.

Armstrong’s season-long success will not come as a surprise to those who have followed his career closely. The talent and potential have always been evident; this year, everything finally came together. The result capped a remarkable day for the squad. Armstrong not only secured the National Road Series crown but also overturned a 13-point deficit to win the season-long Rapha Super League competition. Team-mate Tom Martin finished second overall in the National Road Series standings, while Wheelbase CabTech Castelli’s strength in depth was further underlined by victory in the Overall Team Classification, completing arguably the most successful season in the team’s long racing history.

 

How the Race Unfolded

Armstrong knew attack would be the best form of defence when protecting his series lead and the moment a powerful early move containing many of the day’s key contenders formed Armstrong and teammate Tom Martin both made sure they were in the decisive selection. As the race unfolded across the undulating roads around Ampleforth, the Wheelbase CabTech Castelli pair remained at the sharp end while the chasing groups behind struggled to organise an effective response.

 

The front group repeatedly fragmented and reformed as attack followed attack. Riders came and went, gaps opened and closed, and with every lap the pressure increased. Throughout the chaos Armstrong stayed exactly where he needed to be, attentive to every dangerous move and never far from the front of the action. By the closing stages only the strongest remained and the select group entered the final lap knowing both the race victory and several season-long competitions would be decided within the next few kilometres.

 

On the final rise to the finish line TREK Future Racing rider Sebastian Grindley powered clear from the remaining escapees for an impressive solo victory; attentive until the last pedal stroke Armstrong remained locked in a battle for every point. Crossing the line in fourth place, five seconds behind the podium finishers, securing the result that mattered most. The 18 points Tom gained would prove decisive as Armstrong not only took the National Road Series but also claimed the season-long Rapha Super League title by just five points over Ollie Wood who finished outside the points after a difficult afternoon.

 

‘Big Tom’ Martin and ‘Little Tom’ Armstrong have been perfect teammates over the 2026 season, with the friends working together brilliantly in multiple breakaways including the tactical masterpiece which led to Armstrong’s win at the Lancaster GP earlier in the season. It was great to see Tom Martin’s outstanding consistency throughout the year rewarded with second place overall in the National Road Series standings, giving the team the top two positions.

 

Wheelbase CabTech Castelli also secured the overall team classification, underlining the collective strength that has been evident throughout the season and rewarding decades of commitment from the riders, staff and sponsors. As the team’s title sponsor, Wheelbase has invested heavily in the UK road racing for many years, helping to sustain what is recognised as the longest continuously sponsored road racing team in the United Kingdom. In an era when teams often come and go, the continued presence of Wheelbase CabTech Castelli is a testament to loyalty, camaraderie and a genuine commitment to supporting the racing community.

 

We would like to extend a huge thanks to Team Manager Stu Reid, Race Mechanic Tyla Loftus and the network of volunteers, supporters, friends and family members whose contribution is rarely recognised. They’ve organised logistics, washed kit, fed riders, maintained equipment, travelled thousands of miles and dedicated countless hours for the love of the Wheelbase team. The 2026 road race season belongs to them every bit as much as it belongs to the riders standing on the podium.

 

For Tom Armstrong, his National Road Series win was another significant milestone in an already impressive career. For Wheelbase CabTech Castelli, it represented the culmination of years of commitment, investment and belief. One small step for Armstrong, One Giant Leap for Wheelbase Cabtech Castelli.

 

Photos by James York

Tom photographed with Stu Reid. Photo by SW Pix

For many cyclists, the Trek Domane is THE endurance road bike.

Since its debut over a decade ago it has built a reputation as one of the most comfortable, confidence-inspiring and versatile road bikes available. Originally conceived as a pro race bike capable of taming the brutal cobbles of Paris-Roubaix, the Domane quickly became the go-to choice for amateur cyclists looking for a bike that could comfortably cover huge distances without sacrificing speed.

Five Fast Facts about the all-new 2027 Trek Domane Carbon

 

Now, for 2027, Trek has unveiled an all-new Domane Carbon platform and we’re pleased to see they’ve gone back to basics. It’s lighter, simpler, faster and more versatile than ever. Yes, the new Domane represents a significant rethink of Trek’s endurance bike philosophy. Gone is the complexity of previous generations, replaced by a stripped-back approach that focuses on delivering comfort and performance through intelligent design rather than additional technology. Trek describes it as returning to the roots of endurance riding, creating what they call the ideal lightweight all-road road bike.

 

THE STORY BEHIND THE NEW DOMANE

Trek sat down with existing Domane customers at the start of the design and development process, to gather feedback from riders who had spent a lot of time on the previous versions; they quickly found a surprisingly consistent theme emerging. Customers wanted the bike to be lighter. They wanted a lower entry point into the range, and they wanted a slightly more upright position.

 

There was valuable feedback too, on what they wanted to remain the same. Keep the comfortable geometry, the ability to fit larger tyres, and the confidence-inspiring ride quality. It was super-important to ensure the Domane remained as versatile as previous generations of the bike. That customer feedback became the blueprint for the all-new 2027 Trek Domane Carbon. The result is an endurance road platform that remains unmistakably Domane while feeling considerably more modern and performance-focused than the bike it replaces.

SHAVING SERIOUS WEIGHT

One of the headline changes for the new generation Domane is weight reduction, and for good reason. The designers and engineers have been able to decrease the weight by a significant amount, removing over 300 grams from the frameset compared to the outgoing model, while the lightest complete builds are claimed to be more than 900g lighter overall. This is the lightest production Domane Trek has ever created.

 

Weight has been saved throughout the platform thanks to a completely revised frame and fork design, helping create a bike that feels more responsive under power and more eager when the road starts pointing uphill. Looking at the frame itself, the clean silhouette is immediately noticeable. Unlike some endurance road bikes from other brands, the new Domane looks refreshingly simple.

COMFORT WITHOUT COMPLEXITY

Long-time fans of this endurance road bike will immediately notice one major omission; the IsoSpeed is gone. Over multiple generations of the bike it was a piece of key technology which was at the centre of the Domane story, but Trek believes advances in carbon engineering, frame design, rider fit and tyre technology now allow them to achieve the same goal through a more elegant solution.

 

The new frame has been specifically engineered to deliver controlled vertical compliance while remaining laterally stiff to preserve responsiveness. A redesigned round 27.2mm RSL seatpost also contributes to vibration absorption and rider comfort; in fact, Trek’s testing suggests the new bike maintains comfort levels within five percent of the previous generation despite losing the IsoSpeed system altogether.

BIGGER TYRES, BIGGER POSSIBILITIES

We all know the road riding landscape has changed dramatically over the last few years and many riders are no longer interested in sticking exclusively to perfect tarmac surfaces. Here in the Lake District our best rides often involve neglected back lanes, rough potholed roads, broken surfaces and even the occasional gravel connectors. The new Domane embraces this trend; every model is now built around larger volume all-road tyres, with clearance for rubber up to 40mm wide.

 

The all-new 2027 Domane isn’t a gravel bike, but it’s certainly not limited to smooth roads either, we like to think of it as an ‘all-road bike’. The additional tyre clearance gives riders more grip, increased comfort and the freedom to explore routes that might previously have felt out of bounds on a traditional endurance road bike and for many riders, this versatility could prove to be one of the most appealing aspects of the new platform.

COMFORT STARTS WITH FIT

So, we’ve talked about frame technology and enhanced trye clearance influencing comfort on the bike, but it doesn’t stop there. Trek’s engineers listened to customer feedback and retained the Domane’s endurance-focused geometry, placing the rider in a more relaxed and sustainable position for long days in the saddle. They’ve also introduced an all-new riser handlebar which increases hand position height by 20mm while improving ergonomics across multiple hand positions. Comfort isn’t just about absorbing bumps. It’s about rider position too.

 

A MODERN CLASSIC

Beyond weight, comfort and tyre clearance, the new Domane includes a host of practical features that experienced riders will appreciate. There are integrated mounts for bags, hidden mudguard mounts, a threaded T47 bottom bracket, UDH compatibility, shorter crank lengths and plenty of adaptability for future upgrades. Yet despite all this modern functionality, Trek has carefully avoided turning the Domane into something it isn’t. The bike still looks like a road bike and it still rides like a road bike.

 

FINAL THOUGHTS

The all-new 2027 Trek Domane road bike feels less like a radical reinvention and more like a thoughtful refinement of everything riders already loved about the platform. It’s lighter, more versatile, and it’s cleaner in its execution. If your idea of a perfect ride is heading out with no real plan and seeing where the road takes you, the new Domane makes the perfect companion.

The all-new Trek Domane Carbon is available in-store and online at Wheelbase now.

 

TREK Madone SLR 9 SRAM Red XPLR X1 £9,000

 

TREK Domane SLR 9 SRAM Red £9,000

 

 

TREK Domane SLR 7 SRAM Force  £6,700

 

TREK Domane SLR 7 Shimano Ultegra Di2 £6,300

 

TREK Domane SL 7 SRAM Force XPLR £4,750

 

TREK Domane SL 6 SRAM Rival AXS £3,750

 

TREK Domane SL 5 Shimano 105 £2,500