Cycling Pulse

Pon.Bike, a significant player in the global bicycle industry, has recently initiated the construction of a new bike assembly factory in Lithuania, marking a pivotal moment for both the company and the region. This 40,000 square meter facility, located in the Kėdainiai Free Economic Zone, is set to produce an impressive 450,000 bicycles annually, with a primary focus on e-bikes, which are increasingly becoming the preferred choice for environmentally conscious consumers. The establishment of this factory is not just about expanding Pon.Bike’s production capacity; it represents a strategic move to enhance supply chain efficiency. By situating this facility closer to its European customer base, Pon.Bike aims to streamline the...

The grand opening of the 99 Bikes store in Hobart is an exciting development for the local cycling community, set to take place on October 25, 2024, at 125 Murray Street. This new store will be one of the largest bicycle retailers in Tasmania, boasting an extensive inventory of around 200 bikes on the floor, with even more available in stock. This significant presence reflects the increasing popularity of cycling as both a recreational activity and a mode of transportation. Adrian Brooks, the newly appointed store manager who has moved from Perth, Western Australia, is eager to bring his experience to Hobart. His arrival marks a commitment not only to the store's operations but also to the local community. The decision to secure a...

The 2026 Commonwealth Games, scheduled to take place in Glasgow, Scotland from July 23 to August 2, is set to spotlight track cycling and para track cycling as key events in its comprehensive sports program. This announcement, confirmed by the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) on October 22, 2024, marks an important commitment to inclusivity and the celebration of athletic prowess across diverse backgrounds. Track cycling has been a staple of the Commonwealth Games since 1934, showcasing the speed, strategy, and skill of cyclists from varying nations. The sport has evolved significantly over the decades, with advancements in technology and training regimens pushing the limits of what athletes can achieve on two wheels. The inclusion...

Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale is making waves in the cycling world with its recent announcements for the 2025 season, showcasing significant updates that promise to enhance both performance and aesthetic appeal. Central to this transformation is the introduction of the new Van Rysel FCR aerodynamic race bike, which was first glimpsed at the 2024 Tour de France. This bike embodies a meticulous balance of aerodynamics and low weight, with a claimed frame weight of just 790 grams. The FCR represents a leap forward in design, featuring a deeper, truncated head tube, rectangular down tube, and knife-like seatstays, all aimed at minimizing drag. The integration of a Deda cockpit with aero spacers further emphasizes the bike's aerodynamic...

Consumer Reports has recently released its top picks for safe bike helmets, providing a valuable resource for cyclists seeking protection without compromising on comfort or performance. The importance of wearing a helmet while cycling cannot be overstated; studies show that wearing a properly fitted helmet can reduce the risk of head injury by up to 85%. With this in mind, let's delve into the standout options highlighted in their latest evaluation. The Trek Starvos WaveCel helmet emerges as a leader in performance and safety, priced just over $100. It boasts innovative WaveCel technology, which is designed to absorb impact and mitigate rotational forces during a crash—issues often overlooked by traditional helmet designs. Beyond its...

Birmingham City Council is currently grappling with a contentious proposal that seeks to restrict or outright ban cycling in pedestrian zones, a move largely prompted by rising safety concerns. The focus of the council's attention is on delivery cyclists—particularly those on e-bikes—who have been reported to navigate these crowded areas at alarming speeds. While the intention behind this proposal is to enhance public safety, critics argue that it may be misguided and overly broad, failing to address the specific behaviors and practices that truly endanger pedestrians. The proposal aims to reduce incidents in high-footfall areas of Birmingham's city center, which have become hotbeds for near misses and collisions involving cyclists. By...

Minneapolis has recently completed a transformative project that exemplifies its commitment to safer and more sustainable transportation: the reconstruction of Bryant Avenue South into a bidirectional sidewalk-level protected bikeway. This initiative significantly enhances the safety and accessibility of cycling in one of the city’s key residential areas, particularly between West 50th Street and Lake Street. The project is a testament to Minneapolis's proactive approach to urban mobility and its efforts to create an inclusive environment for all users. At the heart of this project is the newly established protected bikeway, which separates cyclists from motor vehicle traffic, thereby reducing the risks associated with urban cycling...

Sep Vanmarcke, the accomplished Belgian professional cyclist, recently made headlines with his retirement announcement due to pressing cardiac health concerns. This decision, announced on July 7, 2023, stemmed from a cardiac scan that revealed scar tissue on his heart. Such findings prompted Vanmarcke to prioritize his health and make the tough call to step back from a sport he has dedicated over a decade to. As a professional cyclist for 14 years, Vanmarcke's career was marked by impressive achievements and an unwavering commitment to the sport. He celebrated significant victories, including his first WorldTour win at the 2019 Bretagne Classic and a memorable sprint victory at the 2012 Omloop het Nieuwsblad. His prowess in the...

Campagnolo, the storied Italian component manufacturer renowned for its rich history in professional cycling, has announced its return to the UCI WorldTour in 2025, a move that has generated excitement within the cycling community. The company has signed a four-year partnership with Team Cofidis, which allows it to showcase its state-of-the-art components at the highest level of sport. This deal re-establishes Campagnolo’s prominent presence in the peloton, where it can once again innovate and refine its products in competitive settings. As part of this partnership, Team Cofidis will be equipped with Campagnolo’s premium offerings, notably the Super Record Wireless groupset and Bora Ultra WTO wheels. The Super Record Wireless, launched...

Fernando Gaviria, the Colombian sprinting sensation, has officially renewed his contract with the Movistar Team, ensuring that he will remain a pivotal part of the squad through 2025. The announcement, made on November 7, 2024, comes on the heels of a remarkable season for Gaviria, who has established himself as a key asset for the team in a competitive cycling landscape. The recent renewal reflects not only Gaviria’s prowess as a sprinter but also the Movistar Team's strategic commitment to maintaining a strong core in their lineup. Throughout the 2024 season, Gaviria showcased his talent by racking up points in major races, including the Giro d'Italia and the Tour de France, where he secured multiple top 10 finishes and podium spots...

On November 6, 2024, Lotte Kopecky and Remco Evenepoel were awarded the esteemed Flandrien and Flandrienne of the Year titles during a gala hosted by Het Nieuwsblad in Middelkerke, Belgium. These prestigious awards are a testament to their remarkable performances in the cycling world over the past year, reflecting their commitment to excellence in the sport. Lotte Kopecky's 2024 season was nothing short of extraordinary. She captured back-to-back rainbow jerseys as the women’s road race world champion, firmly establishing her as a dominant force in women's cycling. Her accolades also include impressive silver medals in the Elimination and Points races at the Track World Championships and a bronze medal from the road race at the Paris...

Florian Sénéchal's journey through the 2024 cycling season has been profoundly challenging, highlighting the unseen mental struggles that often accompany athletic competition. Known for his ability and stamina, Sénéchal faced a series of personal and professional setbacks that pushed him to the brink. His candid admission of hitting rock bottom offers a rare glimpse into the mental health challenges faced by professional cyclists, an issue that has gained increasing attention in recent years as athletes begin to speak out about their experiences. The 2024 season proved to be a tumultuous one for Sénéchal, with multiple factors contributing to his mental struggles. A series of collarbone injuries early in the season severely impacted...

The 2024 UCI Road World Championships held in Zurich on September 28 presented a significant moment for the Dutch cycling team, long regarded as a powerhouse in women's cycling. However, the event also served to magnify a growing concern within the cycling community regarding the perception of Dutch cycling competitions. With a roster featuring elite cyclists such as Demi Vollering, Marianne Vos, and Riejanne Markus, expectations were high. Yet, their performance sparked a wave of critique and analysis that delves deeper than just race results. The Dutch team entered the championships with considerable optimism, bolstered by their strong track record in international competitions. Vollering, in particular, was seen as a leading...