The Bike Place show, which takes place from Sunday, January 14^th to Tuesday, January 16^th at the Silverstone Race Track, is now just one week away.

The event is one of the first in the annual calendar, and presents an opportunity to meet with other industry professionals and check out the latest new items from major brands including Exposure, Frog Bikes, Kali Protectives and Maxxis.

With a massive volume of new products on display, here are just a few brands that will be exhibiting next week.

Bergamont
Bergamont is heading back to the show for the second year running, to showcase an expanded range of new and revised models for 2018. This will include the Contrail, Grandurance and Revox models.

Land Rover Bikes
A new addition to the 2018 show is Land Rover Bikes. The brand has been selling bikes to the UK market for over a decade, with both a selection of mountain bikes and city bikes making up the majority of the range. New models will be on display at the show, along with stockiest sign-up deals and experts on-hand to speak to attendees.

Roux
The Bick Slick model by Roux will see its first airing at the show in 2018; the bike marks the first in a line of electric models planned for release into 2019. The e-bike features an integrated battery design and a medal-assist motor.

Litelock
Welsh security firm Litelock has announced that it will promote its second product, the ‘Litelock Gold Wearable’ at the show in 2018. The new lock is the first product to emerge after the brand secured a seven-figure investment from The Development Bank of Wales and Business Angels in September.

Black Lion Bikes
Black Lion Bikes is an experience importer of quality European-made electric bicycles. The company will be exhibiting its 2018 range for the first time at the show. “Our aim is simple,” commented the company. “To bring UK independent bike dealers the finest made e-bikes in the world.”

Pre-registration for the event will close this Wednesday at 1pm, so make sure you’re signed up by this date. 

Online fitness platform Zwift and Prudential RideLondon today announced a partnership that sees Zwift become the official training partner for 2018, aiding thousands of riders with structured workout plans and guided training.

The London map was added to Zwift in 2016 based on the Prudential RideLondon route. Since then, Zwifters have logged 34 million miles on the map.

The new partnership will see Zwift’s leading coach Kevin Poulton deliver structured training plans for participants in all RideLondon mass participation events. Those plans can then be followed using Zwift’s Workout programme, or can be performed outdoors. The plans will be free to download from the Prudential RideLondon website soon and published in the event magazine.

Following the official ballot results announcement in February 2018, Zwift will be hosting a series of virtual Group Workout events open to all, which will allow riders to carry out structured training in groups. Riders can train at their own level, while the game takes care of keeping the group together.

“Training is an essential part of preparing for, and getting the most out of Prudential RideLondon,” commented CEO and co-founder Eric Min. “Knowing how to train properly for an event is not always easy. Kevin Poulton’s plan is designed to take the guessing out of the process and help get riders to that start line in the best possible shape. Training indoors using Zwift is a great way to efficiently fit training around a busy lifestyle.”

Coinciding with the announcement is an expansion to the virtual Prudential RideLondon route. Leith Hill will join Box Hill as two of Prudential RideLondon’s most well known climbs on Zwift. The three newly added Zwift courses are; Surrey Hills – 25.8 miles, 2,924ft, Greatest London Loop – 16.1 miles, 1,172ft and Triple Loops – 25.5 miles, 1,854ft.

In our latest series, we’re getting to grips with the brands that you deal with every day. The ‘Five minutes with’ series will present a company with five short, sharp and to-the-point questions about who they are and what they do. This week we’re joined by Campagnolo's Joshua Riddle.

Can you tell us the history of the company?
On November 11, 1927, when Tullio Campagnolo found himself alone ahead of his competitors, he prepared to climb the first steep slopes of the Croce d’Aune pass undauntedly and determined not to surrender. On that freezing morning of November, his hands were so numb from the cold that he couldn't loosen up the hub wing nuts to disengage the wheel and shift to an easier gear. Then and there, he had a stroke of genius; he would redesign the nut's lever to make the release more straightforward. Today, the brand is still pushing the boundaries, branching out from traditional areas of expertise. Campagnolo dedicated many resources towards developing its own version of disc brake technology. In similar fashion, a new state-of-the-art application was unveiled in an effort to improve the cycling experience by offering free, useful and game changing interaciton with componentry of all types.

What are you ultimately trying to achieve?
The philosophy of Campagnolo, dating back to the invention of the very first quick release, is to improve the cycling experience one product at a time. Campagnolo is dedicated to making functional and reliable performance products that are beautiful and preform beautifully. It is not enough to produce performance if it doesn’t last. And it isn’t enough to be merely functional and reliable…but also beautiful. Campagnolo, true to its Italian DNA, seeks to produce functionally beautiful components – improving the cyclists experience through one innovation after another.

What gives you an edge over other brands in the industry?
Obviously our history and authenticity, which is unique to us. Aside from the obvious however, many perhaps don’t know that we are still a 100 per cent family owned company. While perhaps in terms of financing or scale that is a limit but it is also an opportunity in terms of not being beholden to a board of directors or obligated to make decisions purely based on profit margins. For example, the quality standard within Campagnolo is 100 per cent as the ownership wont accept anything less – even if it means taking a loss or coming to market later than desired. Other companies perhaps can insert into budget a certain number of warranty claims or failure rate, however with Campagnolo this is not the case. See our disc brake project; some might say that we came to market late and in a certain sense that is correct as competitors had introduced road disc solutions well ahead of us. Campagnolo wasn’t guided by market timelines or budget constraints but rather by the quest for Campagnolo quality construction and performance. Until that was met the product would not be launched. The H11 groupsets were launched only when deemed perfect. For the consumer that should be a guarantee.

What innovations in the industry are exciting you at the moment?
The industry is in constant evolution and that evolution is speeding up at an exponential rate. Our recent introduction of the disc brake for road cycling was an exciting project to follow. Launching not one but 6 disc brake groupsets and a line of wheels completely designed from the ground up for the specific requirements of this new and different technology is of note. Moving forwards we are seeing many specific segments inside the world of road cycling and it appears as if it is following the same path of the MTB world. Specific componentry, specific needs which call for specific solutions. This all means that the world of cycling is growing as a whole and represents positive opportunities for both cyclists and companies such as Campagnolo who are dedicated to improving those cyclists’ experience in the saddle.

What does the future hold for the company?
The future is always difficult to predict but exciting to create. Who could have imagined a rear derailleur in the age of the flip-flop rear hub? Who could have imagined 8 speed in the age of seven, or that we would one day have 22 gears at our service to tackle even the most varied course in efficient comfort? Electronic shifting, the first tensostructure wheel, the first fully assembled wheels are all technologies pioneered by Campagnolo’s quest to always try and create the future of cycling performance.

Windwave has become sole UK distributor for suspension brand DVO, with immediate effect.

DVO was formed in 2012 by a team of industry suspension veterans and its products are engineered, tested, and proven in California.

“I am really excited to be working with Windwave again and to grow DVO to another level in the UK,” said DVO Suspension owner Bryson Martin. “I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Silverfish for all their hard work over the past few years.”

Windwave marketing manager Dan Jones added: “We have known the DVO team for many years and have watched them create an amazing brand with an already enviable reputation for performance and quality. DVO are a consumer-focused company with a great website featuring set up guides, technical instruction and video tutorials.

“Care is taken to personally reply to comments made online, meaning the consumer is directly able to give feedback to the manufacturer, and this is what really sets DVO apart.”

All service and warranty work and tech related enquiries will be handled by the Windwave DVO Service Centre at Windwaves’ headquarters in Gosport.

Windwave will debut the new 2018 DVO Suspension range at Core Bike on January 21^st to the 23^rd. It will be located in the Bentleys Room and some of the DVO team will be on hand to meet dealers and answer questions.

Windwave is a co-founder of the Core Bike Show and will add DVO Suspension to its existing portfolio of A2Z, BBB, Colnago, Dainese, FSA, Hutchinson, Ice Toolz, Morgan Blue, Nokon, Transition Bikes and Vision.

Dockless firm ofo has today expanded into Sheffield with a fleet of 1,000 bikes; the brand has stated that this is its largest and fastest launch in the UK so far.

All bikes in Sheffield will be free to hire for the first two weeks, and ofo collects no deposit when registering new users. Sheffield is ofo’s first city in the north of the UK and follows launches in Cambridge, Oxford, London and Norwich. The scheme is already used by 200m users in 20 countries to make 32m trips every day.

From today, Sheffield’s citizens will be able to hire a three-speed bike via the ofo smartphone app, ride it anywhere in the city and lock it again at the cost of 50p for a 30 minute journey. The entire fleet will be fitted with dynamo front lights, solar-powered rear lights and a front basket. They also have a hydraulically-adjusted seatpost.

ofo’s operations manager for Sheffield Adam Rose said: “ofo is set to stir up the way Sheffield residents travel in their city. Dockless bikes give people options that can challenge the private car. Like countless cities across the UK, Sheffield is marred by air pollution problems, often caused by congestion. By bringing ofo to Sheffield we are offering a clean, affordable and practical alternative.

“ofo harnesses the fantastic potential of cutting-edge technology but combines it with the classic utility of the bicycle – something which I’m sure will appeal to the residents of a vibrant and thriving city like Sheffield.”

 Sheffield councillor and cabinet member for Transport and Sustainability Jack Scott added: "ofo coming to Sheffield is great news for this city. This type of bike sharing is set to change the way we get from A-to-B for the better. Not only will ofo provide an affordable and convenient transport option for many, but it will also promote the fantastic health benefits of cycling - reducing air pollution and boosting healthy lifestyles.

"Sheffield Council has been working closely with ofo to ensure that dockless bikes are used responsibly and considerately following their introduction. That's why we support ofo's approach of gradually increasing the bikes on Sheffield streets after gauging usage patterns. This will help ofo bikes serve the right areas and the right people – enriching and supplementing Sheffield's existing transport options."

From launch day, ofo will have a team of ‘marshals’ available seven days a week to answer any questions from users and that bikes are being parked responsibly.

BikeBiz prides itself on some key points.

Our monthly print magazine – if you don’t receive a print copy of BikeBiz, it’s free and can be sent straight to your door – is full to the brim with in-depth analysis, useful insight into some of the biggest, most prestigious names and some of the most promising emerging brands that the industry has to offer. In fact, in recent months we’ve had a full re-design and a content re-shuffle that we feel places us firmly at the heart of the industry. We also, of course, have our website – which not only features similar in-depth analysis and insight, but cutting edge news as soon as it develops; a key area that cannot go un-mentioned is our jobs board.

In an industry filled with passion and genuine innovation, finding yourself in the right position can be the difference between just getting through the days and embarking on your life’s true purpose. The cycling industry is built on a foundation of impeccable workmanship and a simple five minute browse of the BikeBiz job board confirms that whether you’re based in central London, Birmingham, Cornwall or anywhere else in the UK, there’s an exiting new position waiting for you.

My advert for an event mechanic attracted more brilliant applications than I ever expected

In 2017 we had a scorching year on the board, with nearly 700 jobs posted and 270,000 visitors regularly checking the page. Opportunities for positions in Spain, France and even Austrailia made it onto the front page and were swiftly snapped up; we’re happy to say that many glowing reviews of the process made their way back to the team.

One such position was with events company Le Loop – Previously Tour de Force, who posted a unique position for two event mechanics. After finding the right person for the job via the board, the team told us: "Thank you BikeBiz! My advert for an event mechanic attracted more brilliant applications than I ever expected. Within a week I had an inbox full of great CVs and I’ve now filled the two roles with excellent mechanics. The whole process was quick and very good value. I’ll definitely use BikeBiz next time I’m looking for event staff and I’d recommend anyone else to use your service too. Thank you!”

We recommend checking back to the jobs board regularly, as new positions are posted on a daily basis. Don’t forget, we also do a weekly roundup of new opportunities every Friday.

For more info on the jobs page, or advice on how to post, contact Richard Setters at rsetters@nbmedia.com or on 02073546028. Keep updated on BikeBiz jobs on Twitter at @bikebizjobs

Visitors and exhibitors at The Bike Place Show on Sunday, January 14^th are invited to a beer tasting and brewery tour hosted by Yellow Jersey Business Insurance.

The event will take place at Blackpit Brewery, a recently established local craft brewer, located five minutes from the race track.

Drinks will be free of charge from 17:30 onwards, with the complimentary tour starting at 18:00. There will be the chance for informal networking afterwards. As the brewery is relatively small, arrive promptly to ensure you get in.

RSVP to tom@yellowjersey.co.uk if you plan on attending.

Yellow Jersey is exhibiting at the show should you have any insurance queries.

Trek is showcasing an AI-based bicycle-to-vehicle communication system on Ford’s stand at the Consumer Electronics Show which started today in Las Vegas.  

The "B2V" technology was developed in partnership with Tome Software – it is hoped it will become an industry standard for in-car tech, especially as other automotive exhibitors at CES are unveiling cars with huge – and distracting – dashboard screens.

B2V is a new addition to the Cellular Vehicle-to-Everything technology. C-V2X connects equiped vehicles to a larger communications system allowing them to communicate with other vehicles, pedestrian devices, bikes and roadside infrastructure, such as traffic signs and construction zones. C-V2X also provides opportunities for direct bicycle electronics integration, as well as mobile phone app integration for cyclists.

Originally announced in September 2017, Trek and Tome’s collaboration has now expanded the research and development phase of B2V to include automotive and smart-city integrations. Ford is supporting the work that Trek and Tome are doing to evaluate the technical opportunities and the best user experiences for cyclists on roadways.

“Ford has been supportive of our mission to make cycling safer since day one and we all understand how important it is that B2V technology is open and shared," said Tome founder and CEO Jake Sigal.

Trek electronics product manager Scott Kasin said.

“The future for us is moving from a more passive approach to cycling safety and focusing our development on active safety measures. We want to ensure that while cyclists have the tools and knowledge to do what they can to create a safer experience, they will now have the enhanced ability to communicate their presence directly to vehicles.”

B2V-enabled equipment gives alerts directly to approaching vehicles. The downside, of course, is that not all bicycles will be equipped with beacons or other B2V alert methods, so the tech is far from a panacea.

Other bike tech unveiled at CES today included Ford-branded bike share e-bikes and AI-based smart suspension systems for road bikes.

Dockless bike-share is booming – why and for how long? Listen to what the operators have to say in the Spokesmen Cycling Roundtable podcast. BikeBiz editor-at-large Carlton Reid spoke to Antonia Roberts of bike share industry org BikePlus; Tom McGovern of Urbo; Joseph Seal-Driver of  Ofo; and Steve Pyer of Mobike.

Here's what Reid asked of the company principals:

Which description do you prefer? Free-floating, stationless, dockless?

Tell us why dockless/free-floating/stationless will not stop people buying their own bikes …

Is the dockless bike share explosion a winner-takes-all thing, or will there always be room for many companies?

Loads of cars can be be parked in a neighbourhood and nobody bats an eyelid. One or two dockless bikes are left in the middle of footways and there are letters to local newspapers, what gives?

What can dockless companies do to combat this supposed “littering”?

Does your app track users just before and just after a successful hire?

Bluegogo went under in China leading to speculation the dockless bike share sector is a “bubble” – what’s your reaction to that?

How can bike-share schemes get more women on bikes?

How can bike-share schemes encourage use by low-income communities? 

Regulation by local authorities is a hot potato – what sort of regulations would you want to see brought in? 

+++

This episode of the BikeBiz-connected podcast is the third show so far in 2018. The Spokesmen Roundtable Industry Podcast is an American show, and is now on its 177th episode. It first aired in August 2006. Reid has been with the podcast since the first episode, and along with founder David Bernstein he is now co-owner and main host of the show..

On Sunday, January 7, 2018, BUFF founder Joan Rojas passed away after a battle with cancer, at the age of 71.

For over 25 years Rojas was a source of inspiration, innovation, and passion behind the brand.

In 1946, in Barcelona, Spain, Rojas was born into the Rojas family textile business with an inherent knowledge and understanding of textile manufacturing. he founded BUFF in 1992; an idea that hatched while touring the country roads of Catalonia around Igualada on his motorcycle.

At his family’s knitting factory - the same factory in which BUFF continues to expand its business today, Rojas produced the first samples of the tubular accessory. Within three years of bringing his idea to life, BUFF Products were being distributed and sold in Germany, France, Switzerland, and other parts of Europe.

“We are proud and humbled to carry on the spirit and the legacy of Joan Rojas. He has been a part of the BUFF family, and a close friend to many more,” commented the Buff team.

More than 21,000 people are now doing more exercise, and more than 6,000 have become regular cyclists after the success of Cycling UK’s Big Bike Revival in 2017.

New figures released by the national cycling charity reveal that 52,431 people attended almost 1,500 free events across the country over six weeks in May and June.

The award-winning project, funded by the Department for Transport, has been running since 2015 and supports cycling groups at a local level holding public events to break down the barriers to cycling many people face.

The Big Bike Revival aims to help the vast numbers of people in the UK who have access to a bike, but due to a lack of money or mechanical knowledge, have put it away for the foreseeable future. Big Bike Revival events also boost people’s confidence on two wheels, showing them a viable, healthy, and more cost-effective form of transport.

“We have had another brilliant year with the Big Bike Revival in 2017,” said Cycling UK’s head of development England Laura Hales. “From congestion and pollution to physical and mental well-being, cycling can be a remedy for all kinds of challenges. By giving that initial support to mend a puncture or get back in the saddle at free events, people have seen for themselves how easy, fun and useful it can be to get cycling again and make a routine change.”

Cycling minister Jesse Norman added: “We are delighted that Government funding for the Big Bike Revival has helped break down barriers and encouraged people to get on their bikes again.

“Cycling improves people’s health, cuts congestion and is good for the environment – these projects show that riding a bike is something everyone can enjoy and benefit from.”

More bikes have also been returned to use. With the help of volunteers from cycling projects and community groups across the country, Big Bike Revival has seen 13,684 pre-loved bikes restored to safe working order. Unwanted bikes have found a variety of new homes, from being purchased by members of the public, often raising money for great causes, to being given away to community programmes.

Users will soon be able to ride and earn cryptocurrency thanks to a new partnership announced by oBike and TRON – a blockchain-based decentralised protocol.

As part of this partnership, which will officially launch in first quarter of 2018, oBike will introduce its very own cryptocurrency called oCoins, based on the TRON protocol.

With the introduction of oCoins, oBike users will be able to pay for their rides as well as top up their oBike wallets using oCoins. oCoins can also be used for online content consumption, or on any applications that are on TRON’s platform. Users will generate oCoins whenever they ride on oBike. The longer they ride, the more oCoins they earn.

TRON is a protocol which enables each content creator to freely publish, store and own data, thus forming a decentralised online content entertainment ecosystem. Its cryptocurrency called TRONIX, or TRX for short, is ranked number 18 worldwide in the list of cryptocurrencies. TRON’s founder, Justin Sun, is the former chief representative of Ripple in Greater China and the CEO of Peiwo.

“We are thrilled to announce our partnership with TRON, a leading decentralised online content entertainment system,” said Mr Edward Chen, co-founder and chief marketing officer of oBike. “The collaboration with TRON will enable oBike users to generate and earn oCoins, which can then be used on apps and online content purchases.

“As a tech company, we are dedicated to bringing better value and benefits to our users through constant innovation and mutually beneficial partnerships. We are confident that the introduction of oCoins, will be an attractive proposition for users to continue riding oBike in more ways than one,” Mr Chen added.

TRX has a market capacity of USD$2.6 billion and is currently trading at USD$0.04. 

Bike Connection Agency will host its first event, Bike Connection Winter, from February 5^th to the 8^th, 2018 in the Massa Marittima, Italy. 

The event, focused on MTB and E-MTB, is the debut of the agency’s endeavour into creating a new platform for brands/media relations in the bicycle industry.

Fifteen international media outlets have confirmed attendance, and a selection of brands across all product categories will also feature.

“We’re very proud to launch our platform with such a strong attendance,” said co-founders Giulio Neri and Simon Cittati. “We’re happy about the enthusiastic response and appreciation we’ve received. Brands are capitalising on the opportunity to engage journalists in a focused, quality environment but without the huge burden and commitment of a dedicated product launch.” 

A final list of attending companies and media will be published on Bike Connection Agency’s website in early 2018, while the firm is already working on further iterations of its platform including a Bike Connection Summer event in June 2018.

Specialist distributor Paligap, which has been distributing Marin bikes in the UK since 2014, will team up with Cycle Republic to help elevate the profile of the brand and help to grow consumer awareness in the UK – targeting key inner-city locations.

‘’Paligap and Marin are excited to be working with Cycle Republic,” commented Paligap MD David Lane. “With the growth of the Marin brand, it is important we secure key city locations that follow trends such as city living and bicycle commuting.  Cycle Republic offer a highly professional retail and service experience, coupled with key locations; many of which Marin have not been present in until now.’’  

Cycle Republic is a cycling specialist that opened its first shop in Euston Tower, London in December 2014. It currently has 19 shops located across the UK and significant growth plans for 2018.

Cycle Republic managing director Peter Kimberley added: “We are delighted to be stocking Marin, a brand that holds so much heritage and has built a worldwide following through their innovation.  The range introduced in 2018 is really exciting and is a perfect fit for our customers whether they are a specialist MTB rider, cyclists riding for fitness or seeking to enjoy their daily commute.”

Marin has introduced three new platforms into the market for 2018 with more to come next summer. Oli Brown, who was recently appointed as brand manager, is rolling out a Marin IBD training programme that is available to all Marin dealers. This includes technical seminars, staff demo rides, and exceptional staff purchase programme.

Markus Storck, principal and chief designer at Storck Bicycle of Germany, claims that British start-up brand Vielo is infringing on his designs and is also using the same Chinese factory to make its bikes.

Vielo is the new, UK-specific brand created by father and son Ian and Trevor Hughes. Vielo Sport used to be the UK distributor for Storck but their distribution contract was terminated in February last year. Prior to setting up Vielo Sports the industry veterans had operated through Storck Raddar UK, winner of the 2015 Bike Biz Award for best specialist distributor.

Storck was critical of claims made on “How to Launch a High-End Road Bike Brand,” a 45-minute podcast interview with the Vielo principals in which they discussed the termination of the distribution contract and the creation of their new brand.

Storck claims Vielo is a copycat brand using Storck technologies developed by Jens Buder. Buder was the
head of research and development of Storck Bicycle between November 2011 and October 2015.

“Buder left the company, but now Ian is working with this guy,” Storck told BikeBiz. “That is OK, but what is not OK is that [Buder] is offering technologies he developed when he was a full-time employee with Storck.

“Ian’s frame has exactly the same technologies that Buder developed for us. It’s a copycat.”

Storck added: “[Ian] is also using our vendor in China. I am going to try and stop this. Our vendor has produced something identical to our product, and I am applying pressure on the vendor to stop selling to Ian. It is against the agreements I have with the vendor. We have worked with this vendor for 20 years.”

Taiwan company American Classic announced the closure of their factory and warehouse last week, citing difficult market conditions and limited OE support.

However, speaking on behalf of their long-term UK distribution partner, Moore Large, director of IBD sales Dale Vanderplank said: “We received some news of their intentions very late last week but have since spoken with them to actively discuss ways the brand can maintain a presence in the market. You don’t reach a 35-year milestone without doing a lot of things right.

"Bill and Ellen have an unquestionable passion for the industry and their products have been at the forefront of rim and hub development for years. That remains the mainstay of their business and we feel fortunate to have enjoyed the benefits of that in the 10 years we’ve been working with them.

"Our immediate priority is to reassure our customers that until these discussions are concluded, its business as usual. We have good stocks of wheels across the range, with more arriving later this month and a complete offering of serviceable items available from our UK stock, ensuring we cover the full and complete term of any existing warranties. We will communicate further information directly with our customers, as and when the outcome of our conversations with them, becomes clearer."

Cedric Chicken has agreed a management buy-out at the business taken over by his late father, Bob.

Gary Turner and Michael Catlin form the MBO, with Chicken staying with the business as chairman.

"The company has seen tremendous growth over the last 10 years with significant investment in the company-owned premises, IT infrastructure and most importantly building a team of committed and passionate staff to support the prestigious portfolio of brands stocked by the company," said a company statement.

Turner and Catlin will continue to be supported by financial director David Nixon.

Catlin said: “Following the successful conclusion of negotiations with Cedric, Gary and myself are delighted with this outcome and to have the full support of our brands, staff and bank. In some ways, for our customers it is very much business as usual as Gary and myself have been the point of contact for several years. Most importantly, continued customer focus is paired with ongoing ambitious plans for the company’s future.”

Turner added: “Chickens is one of the most respected names in the UK cycling industry and it has always been a privilege to be part of its success. Mike and myself have long term ambitions to continue the Chickens legacy and we look forward to working with all staff, customers and suppliers for many years to come."

Chicken will retain the role of company chairman. He said: “I have seen many a company go to the wall as a result of the owner staying in charge too long. Happily the youthful Mike and Gary have proven their ability given a free hand in the introduction of the latest IT and computer services.

"They have attracted more qualified staff as a result, enabling the company to function optimally; also younger staff of ability and they have the respect of our suppliers by knowing product ranges inside out. By most recently dividing their individual skills of commercial management on the one hand and selling/marketing on the other, Mike and Gary have honed their individual talents.

"Our suppliers are our mainstay and they appreciate the high degree of organisation that exists, for their benefit, within our company. We have helped them and they have helped us through thick and thin for more years than I care to remember.

"This MBO sends out a very clear message to the trade – Chicken stands for perpetuity.“

Chicken Cyclekit was the 2013 successor to R.J. Chicken and Sons which in itself was founded from Industrial Chain Supply Company, founded by Bob Chicken in 1951. Earlier than this there was a steel tubing business founded in 1919 by Bob Chicken's father, William Chicken.

Cedric Chicken will be leading the arrangements for the 100th anniversary celebration of the company. 

Vielo director Trevor Hughes has disputed this afternoon's claim from Markus Storck that the start-up brand's first bike is a rip-off from Storck Bicycle of Germany. Storck claims that Vielo is infringing on his designs and is also using the same Chinese factory to make its bikes.

Vielo is the new, UK-specific brand created by father and son Trevor and his father, Ian Hughes. Vielo Sport used to be the UK distributor for Storck but their distribution contract was terminated in February last year. Prior to setting up Vielo Sports the industry veterans had operated through Storck Raddar UK, winner of the 2015 Bike Biz Award for best specialist distributor.

"We were surprised to see the article on Bikebiz," said Trevor Hughes, "especially as we haven’t received any communication to us directly by Storck about their complaint. Such blanket statements are very difficult to follow up. We welcome Storck to outline specifically what technologies are 'exactly the same' so we can address their concerns directly, in a professional manner."

Storck had been critical of claims made on “How to Launch a High-End Road Bike Brand,” a 45-minute podcast interview with the Vielo principals in which they discussed the termination of the distribution contract as well as the creation of their new brand.

Storck had claimed that Vielo is a copycat brand using Storck technologies developed by Jens Buder. Buder was the head of research and development of Storck Bicycle between November 2011 and October 2015.

“Buder left the company, but now Ian is working with this guy,” Storck told BikeBiz. “That is OK, but what is not OK is that [Buder] is offering technologies he developed when he was a full-time employee with Storck.

“Ian’s frame has exactly the same technologies that Buder developed for us. It’s a copycat.”

Trevor Hughes said: "Storck claims that we are a copycat of Storck and that the V+1 frame has exactly the same technologies developed for Storck. The fact is, there is no copy. We would not even consider that. The V+1 frame was a completely new, ground-up development started in 2017 using new ideas and features."

He added: "The Vielo V+1 is the first chapter in a new journey. So far we’ve had an incredible response since launching, not only in the UK but with enquiries about distribution from other countries around the world. This is a very exciting time for us." 

As one of the first key events in the cycling calendar, the COREbike show, which takes place from January 21^st to the 23^rd at the Whittlebury Hall in Towcester, presents an ideal opportunity to view the latest products that the industry has to offer and discuss the year ahead with industry friends and contacts in a relaxed environment.

Speaking to BikeBiz recently, Core co-organiser Keith Jepson commented: “I think the event will always have a huge place in the UK event calendar, and now with Upper Street Events joining the Core team as principal event organiser, I am confident that the event will grow even further. A large event company partnering with Core gives the event more man power from an organisational perspective and more promotional clout! Core offers something different, it’s not just a trade show, it’s a conference with hospitality, amazing products and a friendly atmosphere, where the trade hang out, do business and have access to brand managers, sales guys and brand owners.”

This year, a host of top brands will take to the halls of the show to exhibit new ranges and emerging technology. Following a successful 2017 show, Assos of Switzerland was founded in 1976, and has spent its history working on the progression of high-end fabrics and cycling clothing. After a busy year in which the Assos moved into a new flagship London superstore, the brand will once again occupy a significant space in Whittlebury hall, at stand S2.

Hotlines has been a regular at the show for years; in 2018, the distributor will release new products from brands including Rondo, Lynskey, Leatt, NS Bikes and 661. Rondo will launch the HVRT road bike, Lynskey will debut a UK-ready hardtail, Leatt’s range of XC/Trail apparel will be on display including the DBX 3.5 neck brace, NS Bikes will introduce the new 29” 150 plus Snabb model to its lineup and 661 will launch the new Reset helmet, which will be on pre-order at the show.

CSG-distributed accessories brand Fabric will be available to discuss its growing range of cycling accessories. The brand has invested substantial research and development into engineering a range that not only provides convenience to cyclists on the go, but also takes advantage of quality materials in the process. The range includes saddles, pumps, lights, bottles, tools, tape and grips – to name but a few.

Zyrofisher has had a monumental year with the strengthening of many key brands. Core 2018 will represent a key chance for the distributor to show off some of the latest and greatest products from key brand including ABUS, Giro, Altura, Hiplok, RockShox and Bell. Experts from the ZyroFisher team will be on hand to discuss the range with dealers at Stand Astons S4/S3.

Silverfish is gearing up for another eventful show in 2018. The brand recently built on its relationship with 28-year-old brand Marzocchi, who is expected to announce release some significant updates this year. Mondraker will attract attention at this year’s event, as will Yeti, who revealed some eye-catching 2018 models recently.

For 2018 Core has enlisted the help of Cycle Show owners, Upper Street Events, to manage the organisational aspects of the show.

“As long term visitors to Core Bike we have always looked forward to making the trip to Whittlebury and like the many hundreds of IBDs and members of the press that attend it has always been a hugely worthwhile exercise for us. It’s not an easy task to meet so many top quality brands and distributors in one place, especially for busy bike shop owners,” said Chris Holman of Upper Street Events.

“Clearly the founders of Core all run successful bike companies as their main jobs, so their days are very full already and Core has got to the size now where it needs an events company to help it become the best show it can possibly be. So it’s a great honour for us to be part of such a well-established and prestigious bike trade event,” he concluded.

Stand sales at the show will continue to be overseen by the Core team, but enquiries for space can be made through Chris or Steve Morgan at Upper Street. The new Core Bike website with the latest exhibitor list and show news will be launched at the beginning of November.

“We’ve known Chris and the team there for several years, and we’re very pleased to be working with them on Core. It’s critical that the show retains its house feel with trade visitors enjoying a welcoming and relaxed environment. We envisage that with Upper Street Events joining the established Core organisers, we can mutually raise the bar yet again for the industry whilst ensuring the event is run as smoothly and professionally as possible. The synergy between Core Bike and the Cycle Show also means that both events can extend their reach into the trade more effectively and clearly there’s a lot to be gained by attracting even more bike shops to meet the Core exhibitors,” added Lloyd Townsend of Ison Distribution

IBDs can register now at www.corebike.co.uk. Please note the Core Bike registration system ensures that all registrations have to be approved first by the exhibitors and also by the organising team so the registration process does not generate immediate confirmations.

 Is it time for a change of career? Multiple lucrative openings have become available with AGU that you may be interested in.

Are you born for B2B sales? Brings closing deals a smile on your face? Are you eager to build brands and prove your added value to your customers? Do results drive you? Then this is the job for you.

Here’s what the brand had to say: “At AGU it’s all about cycling since 1966. No matter the conditions or type of riding you’re into, we’ve got you covered. Our collection of premium road cycling apparel, bags and rainwear enables you to ride in comfort every day.

We’re searching for result driven Sales Agents to further develop our business in Great Britain. As Sales Agent with AGU Holding you’re responsible for growing the brands AGU and Fastrider in the British market through close cooperation with the local dealer network and our Dutch office.”

The Job

You’ll be responsible for sales in the cycling, sports and outdoor channel. After thorough geographical analysis you put together acquisition plans per channel for your area and translate these into commercial initiatives.

You collect leads and develop these to AGU brand stores. You’re highly motivated when it comes to achieving targets and objectives. In close cooperation with your teammates you try to achieve the highest possible appreciation from our partners.

Available Areas

North

Mid

South east

South West

Your profile

Experienced in selling apparel in a B2B setting
EntrepreneurialGetting things done mentality
Self-employed and proactive
Strong verbal and written communication skills

For additional information, questions or remarks contact Paul van Holst through export@agu.nl

Does this profile tick all your boxes? Then you should get in touch with AGU. Contact: Mrs F. van der Meer, HR Manager AGU Holding – werkenbij@agu.nl

After recently announcing partnerships with cycling jersey producer Castelli and nutrition brand Optimum Nutrition, Human Race has now joined with bike mechanics VONCRANK and PedalSure insurance.

VONCRANK connects riders to a mobile bike mechanic via an app.  As part of the partnership with Human Race, VONCRANK will be providing mechanical support on all cycling and triathlon events, ensuring that cyclists make it through the technical parts of the course and across the finish line.

Comprehensive cyclist and bicycle insurance company PedalSure covers all types of bikes and riding, including amateur racing and commuting. The new partnership with Human Race will offer the potential for riders to be fully covered as they take on events including the Dragon Ride L’Etape Wales and Royal Windsor Triathlon.

“We have a busy season of events lined up across our cycling, running and triathlon portfolio, so it’s essential that we have quality partners on board who are experts in their field,” said Human Race CEO Nick Rusling. “After successfully signing agreements with Optimum, Soreen and Castelli at the end of 2017, we’re delighted to be kicking off the New Year in such a positive fashion by partnering with VONCRANK and PedalSure. They are instrumental in making sure everyone can have peace of mind around maintaining and insuring one of their most prized possessions – their bikes.”

“It’s great that Human Race have seen the synergies between our two businesses, and as a young tech start-up we are delighted to be partnering with such a fantastic and established company for 2018,” added VONCRANK’S Liam O’Brien. “We aim to use technology to save cyclists time by providing top notch repairs and servicing at the click of a button, so riders can spend more time in the saddle doing what they love.”

"PedalSure is proud to be the official cycling and triathlon insurance partner of Human Race in 2018," concluded Pedalsure CEO Philip Lochner. ""According to UK crime statistics 376,000 were stolen in the UK in 2016. PedalSure will cover your bike from theft, as well as any accidental damage caused in training, or at an event, and we also offer unrivalled levels of personal cover for riders as well."

oBike has hit a major milestone of 10 million trips globally.

To cope with the demand, oBike launched a franchise-like programme known as the Global Business Partnership Programme last month, inviting interested parties to manage its on-ground operations and maintenance works as business partners.

Based on a revenue-share model, GBPP was established with the objective of harnessing the networks and resources of local businesses to better optimise oBike operations through timely deployment as well as redeployment and maintenance of the bikes.

Interested parties can join oBike on one of the two GBPP tiers. These include being a city partneror a regional business partner.

oBike is currently operating in over 60 cities across 20 countries. Through GBPP, oBike has commented that it hopes to create a more sustainable and scalable business model, whilst boosting business and employment opportunities in the respective countries and communities it operates in: “We are ecstatic that in a matter of months, oBike has hit a major milestone of 10 million trips across the world. This would not have been possible without the support of our users who have been faithfully following us on this journey,” said oBike co-founder Edward Chen.

“oBike was founded with the mission of harnessing technology to create a greener way of commuting in urban cities, and GBPP is our way of giving back to the communities we operate in. This comes back full circle, creating a holistic and sustainable ecosystem. Ultimately, it is our hope to create a win-win-win situation for us, our users and our planet,” Mr Chen added.

After a period of growth, Cyclorise has expanded its operation by appointing Velvet Cycles as its sales representation throughout Scotland.

An already locally recognised cycle retailer and service-centre from Turriff Aberdeenshire, Velvet Cycles also operates as a Scotland-wide sales representative. Owner Johny Milton is well-known in the region and his “enthusiasm, personable nature and drive to succeed are valuable assets that attracted Cyclorise,” commented the company.

Cyclorise company owner Thomas Dibley added: “We need to expand our operation, but in doing so we must work with people who share our values and enthusiasm for our products. Johny delivers on every level. We coudn’t be happier with our choice.”

“I am delighted to be partnering up with Cyclorise, and representing them within Scotland,” continued Velvet Cycles owner Johny Milton. “Thomas and Siân offer great products and an outstanding service, something I value in my own business. Velvet Cycles will work hard to gain traction for Cyclorise within Scotland, aiming to show all IBS what quality products Cyclorise has to offer. As Velvet Cycles grows and gains new brands to represent, I also look forward to working with Thomas to help grow Cyclorise into a vital importer to the UK cycling industry.”

The newest cryptocurrency in the market oCoin, which was introduced by oBike in partnership with TRON, is now available for its inaugural token sale.

The token sale is only open to institutional investors for now, with a total of four billion oCoins for sale. This was announced today by ODYSSEY, the oCoin foundation.

ODYSSEY is a not-for-profit foundation that leverages on blockchain technology. It aims to establish oCoin, its official token and the basic unit of accounts in ODYSSEY’S blockchain, as an acceptable mode of payment globally without the need for central bodies or third parties. Foundation members include key founding and executive members from global leading transportation sharing companies.

oCoin, which is based on the Ethereum protocol, currently accepts only ETH, Ethereum’s cryptocurrency token. Hence, all participants’ wallets must be ETH ERC20 compatible to purchase oCoins. It has plans to support TRX, TRON’s cryptocurrency token in the near future.

oBike has become the first application of the sharing economy to be compatible with the ODYSSEY protocol. As part of its strategic partnership, ODYSSEY will work closely with TRON on cross-ecosystem collaborations which will benefit ODYSSEY’s sub-ecosystem like oBike.

In addition to the potential and exponential growth in value, investors of oCoins, can also use them to purchase online content, or on any applications that are on TRON’s platform. oBike users will be able to use oCoins to pay for their rides as well as top up their oBike wallets using oCoins. oBike users can also look forward to generating oCoins whenever they ride, with the ability to earn more oCoins the longer they ride.

Voting for the BikeBiz Awards 2018 will end on Friday, January 12^th – tomorrow.

Earlier in the month a shortlist was announced for each of the 18 award categories; thousands of votes have been cast, but your vote still counts.

This year marks the tenth anniversary of the awards, now in conjunction with the London Bike Show. It will honour key industry influencers from every corner of the trade, from mainstream retailers and bike brands, to consumer magazines and independent bike dealers.

CLICK HERE TO CAST YOUR VOTE

“The 2018 awards look set to encapsulate everything about the cycling industry that we love and cherish," commented BikeBiz editor Hayley Ferguson. “With an expanded list of awards, a diverse and comprehensive list of nominees voted for by the industry and a brand new venue, we’re confident that the tenth anniversary of the awards will be a night to remember.”

Tickets for the 2018 BikeBiz Awards are available to purchase now from the official event website here – purchase yours before January 12^th to qualify for the limited early-bird discount.

Key sponsors for this year will include Tannus Tyres, who will return as event sponsor on the night. Tannus’ Ricky Gawera told BikeBiz: "We’re very pleased to be partnering up with the BikeBiz Awards for the second year running. Last year presented a completely unique opportunity for the industry to celebrate its successes together and once again, we’ll be front and centre to recognise the best of the best in the cycling industry. Good luck to all the nominees."

Citrus Lime is also returning for the second year as an event partner. The company will be on hand to discuss its innovative EPOS and e-commerce solutions. Joining Tannus and Citrus Lime is NEOS Cycling, who will come on board as sponsor of the Independent Bike Dealer award. 

A limited number of sponsorship opportunities are available. Visit here to find out more, and contact Richard Setters to get involved at rsetters@nbmedia.com or 02073546028.