BREAKAWAY PART OF YOUR RIDE
KING OF THE MOUNTAIN THE MOST EXTREME ENDURANCE CYCLIST IN THE WORLD
MORZINE FINDING THE GOODS IN SNOW COVERED MOUNTAINS
PREPARING FOR THE CLASSICS THE WAYS OF WANTY-GOBERT CYCLING TEAM
2019 PART OF YOUR RIDE
2 PART OF YOUR RIDE NEW YEAR, NEW CYCLING PART GOALS!
New years give you lots of new opportunities. Chances to achieve new goals. When spring is in the air, it is time to show the world how hard you worked during the winter. Or to get back on the bike (and in shape) OF YOUR as soon as possible. Your winter kit kept you warm, you trained indoors or you had a good rest. Either way, the days to perform have arrived. You need to go out there. The roads and trails are calling!
We ‘re going to help you start your season with this inspiring magazine. It shows our passion for cycling, RIDE advices you and gives you this extra motivation to jump on your bike immediately. In this 2019 edition we introduce our brand new Backyard Crew. A selection of cyclist who will convince you to ride your bike as long and often as possible. Cycling enthusiasts who ride with BBB products literally every day and help us make our products even better.
And our product designers have been busy last year as well. They have a lot of new smart products to show. Improvements on products and totally new products that will help you throughout the whole year on the bike. All which will proof that we are Part of your Ride.
We love to hear your cycling stories as well. And like to hear how we can help you to improve your cycling experience.
Get in touch with us on social media: @bbbcycling
DESIGN PUBLISHER Koen Nieuwenburg BBB Cycling EDITORS Rooseveltstraat 46 Bas Tooms 2321 BM Leiden Koen Nieuwenburg, The Netherlands Frederik van Beukering +31 (0)71 579 15 80 EDITION [email protected] 2019 SOCIAL MEDIA @bbbcycling
BBB CYCLING / COPYRIGHT © BBB CYCLING All rights reserved and all prices subject to change. No part of this publication may be copied or used in any form without the publisher’s permission. All product specifications are subject to change without notice.
DISCLAIMER Products with third-party trademarks are only depicted to show the use of our BBB products as compatible accessories and components. BBB doesn’t sell these third-party products. There are no commercial ties or special relationships between BBB and the relevant brand owners.
BBB CYCLING 3 “Command the roads.”
Futuristic designed sports glasses with a wide lens for an optimal view. Fits on everyone’s head because of the unique three step temple adjustment system. Ideal to fit together with your helmet. It will end the fight for the /BSG-61 same position at the side of your head. - BBBCYCLING.COM/BSG-61-COMMANDER CONTENTS
6 NEW PRODUCTS
8 BACKYARD CREW 2019
10 THE COMMANDER
12 FINDING THE GOODS IN SNOW COVERED MOUNTAINS
16 BIKE FITTING
20 THE KING OF THE MOUNTAIN
24 HOW TO REPLACE DISC BRAKES?
26 ROAD CYCLING TOURS IN THE EIFEL
30 WANTY
34 THE MAESTRO
38 DISCOVERING THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS
42 MISSION NOT-SO-IMPOSSIBLE - NEW PRODUCTS 2019
MAESTRO RACE / BHE-09
When you go for optimal airflow and safety during every ride, you choose the Maestro!
BBBCYCLING.COM/BHE-09-MAESTRO
COMMANDER RACE + MTB / BSG-61
Futuristic designed sports glasses with a wide lens for an optimal view.
BBBCYCLING.COM/BSG-61-COMMANDER
OMNIUM RACE / BBW-249
Finish your cycling kit with this high-end jersey, available in four different colour options.
BBBCYCLING.COM/BBW-249-OMNIUM
MULTIMATCH WORKSHOP / BTL-145
Have you ever wondered if a multitool could fit in the size of a matchbox?
COMING SOON
6 NEW PRODUCTS ATTACHI RACE / BBW-401
Brand new premium cycling jersey with a clean and sleek design.
BBBCYCLING.COM/BBW-401-ATTACHI
CONVOY RACE / BSD-154 /BSD-155
Race saddle made of durable synthetic leather, for cyclists who ride in a competitive cycling posture.
BBBCYCLING.COM/BSD-154-CONVOY
DUALHEAD 3.0 WORKSHOP / BFP-96
FIXBOX Here is a solution for an age-old challenge! A Pumphead WORKSHOP / BTL-144 with a thumblock lever that gives you the possibility to secure it to the valve with only one hand. How slim and elegant can a multitool be? The answer is our FixBox tool. BBBCYCLING.COM/BFP-96-DUALHEAD-3-0
COMING SOON
NEW PRODUCTS 7 -
BACKYARD CREW 2019
The BBB Cycling Backyard Crew consists of pro’s, adventurers, discoverers, survivors, fanatics and lovers on a bike. People who like to sit in the saddle as long and often as possible. Who enjoy a social ride but are also capable to drive themselves to the limit. Enthusiastic people who know how to inspire others to cycle more often.
WANTY-GOBERT CYCLING TEAM PRO CONTINENTAL CYCLING TEAM / BELGIUM
From this 2019 season we have renewed our partnership with this ambitious cycling team. The helmets and sports glasses support their riders in competing for the maximum result. While our tools keep the riders cycling.
BBBCYCLING.COM/BACKYARD-CREW/WANTY INSTAGRAM / @TEAMWANTYGOBERT FACEBOOK / @WANTYGOBERT
JACK THOMPSON PROFESSIONAL ULTRA ENDURANCE ADVENTURE CYCLIST / AUSTRALIA
If it is a fast, far and long lasting cycling adventure, you know Jack is getting involved. He has only one target. To become the most extreme ultra endurance cyclist in the world. And we are supporting him with our helmets, sports glasses and accessories. Besides this extremeness, he also spends his time giving everybody the opportunity to go on an adventure with him. Wanna join?
BBBCYCLING.COM/BACKYARD-CREW/JACK-THOMPSON INSTAGRAM / @JACKCYCLESFAR FACEBOOK / @JACKCYCLESFAR
8 BACKYARD CREW JAMES SHIRLEY PRIVATEER / SCOTLAND
James is a so-called privateer. A self supporting Enduro World Series MTB cyclist from the Scottish highlands. Using all kinds of BBB products to show the fun in mountain biking. And especially in his beloved Fort William.
BBBCYCLING.COM/BACKYARD-CREW/JAMES-SHIRLEY INSTAGRAM / @JAMESY_BOY_SHIRLEY
JAMIE NICOLL ADVENTURER AND MTB ATHLETE / NEW ZEALAND
Ever dreamed of a life full of mountain bike adventures? Jamie is the one to be jealous of. Riding everywhere on his Santa Cruz mountain bike equipped with products from BBB Cycling.
BBBCYCLING.COM/BACKYARD-CREW/JAMIE-NICOLL INSTAGRAM / @JAMIENICOLLADVENTURES
LISE VISSER ROAD CYCLIST / THE NETHERLANDS
It started off with cycling as training for ice skating races. Nowadays Lise has her full focus on road cycling. Her ultimate dream? Becoming a professional cyclist.
BBBCYCLING.COM/BACKYARD-CREW/LISE-VISSER INSTAGRAM / @LISE_VISSER YOUTUBE / OP SOUPLESSE
MAARTJE MARIA ROAD CYCLING BLOGGER / THE NETHERLANDS
Maartje is a vegan triathlete who loves cycling as a part of it. She sets a goal and goes for it. This year she is aiming on a triathlon in Australia. Want to be updated?
BBBCYCLING.COM/BACKYARD-CREW/MAARTJE-MARIA INSTAGRAM / @MAARTJEMARIACOM YOUTUBE / MAARTJE MARIA COM
BACKYARD CREW 9 TEXT BAS TOOMS // PHOTOS BBB CYCLING THE COMMANDER FROM ON-PAPER IDEA TO YOUR NOSE
Visiting BBB’s Product Development department for the first time is like entering a labyrinth of rooms containing desks strewn with all kinds of stuff. From samples of cycling apparel to helmet and sport glasses components. There’s no doubt that designers work here! Somewhere between the many drafts and 3D prints, sunlight creeps through the window blinds and falls onto a lens of BBB’s most ambitious sports glasses: the Commander.
These are the offices of product manager Vincent Jol When presented with the idea, manufacturers admit and product designers Yannick Lange and Sebastiaan that adjustable temples are quite ambitious – they’ve Bowier. Where drafts, drawings, and prototypes of the never heard of anything like it. So they join forces to newest addition to BBB’s range of sports glasses can further develop this new system. be found. The brand has a long heritage of successful and affordable sports glasses. These guys can tell me Needless to say, a top-of-the-line model requires exactly how an idea on paper ends up on your nose. lenses of suitably high quality. The Commander is thus fitted with lenses that are not only scratch- It’s August 2017 when the design team gathers to resistant, but also have anti-condensation and water- discuss a new model of glasses. It has no name yet, repellent properties. What’s more, the Commander but the team intends to make it their new top-of-the- comes with two spare lenses – one transparent and line model. These glasses will replace two previous one yellow. The frame itself is made of Grilamid, a models, yet the new product will in no way be their synthetic material deemed by the designers to be successor. This is a brand-new design built from “indestructible”. This material is used in most BBB scratch. glasses.
Apart from the conception of all functional “The glasses are equipped with components of the glasses, the team also works on a something fitting only a true top-of- new design for the product. Exacting as always, the the-line model: a system that allows designers intend to evoke BBB’s characteristic design you to adjust the length of the temples.” without compromising functionality or comfort.
Before the team starts designing, however, they examine current market trends. What is important to sports cyclists nowadays? What are their demands and how can these be met? The team finds that most sports glasses that are available today are “one size fits all”, to the detriment of the comfort they offer. There’s got to be a solution to this – precisely the challenge the team is seeking.
Many sports glasses are manufactured in one size only. They’re supposed to “fit” any head, any nose. True, the majority of cyclists will find these glasses to fit: manufacturers can target an “average size”, just like they do with caps and headphones. But there’s a difference between “it fits” and “it is comfortable”. So the team comes up with a solution. The glasses are equipped with something fitting only a true top-of- the-line model: a system that allows you to adjust the length of the temples. The system is combined with an adjustable bridge, which BBB uses on several models.
With every click, the temples are lengthened or shortened by 5 mm. And not unimportantly: the temples shouldn’t fall out during use, yet they should be replaceable.
10 THE COMMANDER Round shapes and metallic parts adorn the mood boards on which the design is born. Next, the team uses their Video / bit.ly/sport-glasses-video digital pens to turn their ideas into drafts. Every millimeter of the design is drawn tens, if not hundreds of times. It’s all about the details.
The glasses are distinctly styled. They have to both offer and radiate a sense of freedom. There isn’t a single straight line: every part has a curve in it, no matter how subtle. The visor, which consists of a single lens, offers a free and complete view of the surroundings. The lens seems to “float” in front of the frame, so it feels like you’re not wearing glasses at all.
COMMANDER MTB + RACE / BSG-61
Details on paper are nice, but you don’t know if something really works until you actually wear the glasses. When the drafts are rendered into a 3D design, the Commander truly comes to life.
A small room behind a white door next to the designers’ offices, is where months worth of research, drafts and hard work finally come together. The room houses the 3D printer that in only a few hours will produce the first real- life Commander. COMMANDER MTB + RACE / BSG-61PH Everyone gets to wear the test model. Colleagues, ambassadors and connoisseurs alike are super-excited about the wearing comfort and the unparalleled view.
Next in the designing process is a host of factory-made test models, followed by countless more rounds of finetuning the design. The team won’t rest before every imperfection is polished away and the Commander is worthy of the label “top-of-the-line”.
Futuristic designed sports glasses with a wide lens for an optimal view. Fits on everyone’s head because of the unique three step temple adjustment system. Ideal to fit together with your helmet. It will stop the fight for the same position at the side of your head.
CHECK FOR ALL OUR SPORT GLASSES: BBBCYCLING.COM/APPAREL/SPORT-GLASSES
11 TEXT JAMIE NICOLL // PHOTOS MAX SCHUMANN
FINDING THE GOODS IN SNOW COVERED MOUNTAINS MORZINE, FRANCE
Flying in from my home land New Zealand, for my seventh summer in France and Europe, arriving for the excitement of spring, getting back out into the mountains and a summer of trips and adventures ahead. It’s good to be back for another five month stint, this Euro land has grown on me more and more over the years.
MORZINE, France
12 MORZINE FRANCE “It’s good to be back for another 5 month stint, this Euro land has grown on me more and more over the years.”
JAMIE NICOLL 13 I’ve been in Europe a week now, it’s late May and the Luckily the trees gave us the feeling of some protection snow is still holding strong in the shaded corners of to the steep exposure as we hit long root sections the high mountains and surrounding peaks of Morzine, down this amazing piece of fast trail. Weaving through France. Morzine sits at roughly 1000 meters elevation trees, with that sweet feeling of the bikes suspension and is deep in the northern Haute Savioe region of the working hard. Now and then our trail passed by the French Alps, this town is something of a “Mecca” for switch back corners of the steep mountain road mountain bikers. Bikers from all over the globe gather before finally leaving this shared ridge and dropping here for summer, keen for big descents with long into forested faces with more sweeping turns through gondola and chairlift rides back to the top. dimly lit pines and dense scrubby trees that hinder vision and keep you on your toes. Stopping at the top For me these are fun and a great asset - but I tend, of the next section, we were laughing at the mishaps where possible, to use them more to get me up high. and surprises we’d faced. The moments where we’d So I can get out of the park and explore the seldom had to make quick decisions, but got away with it all used and hidden trails, the ones tucked into the the same. It’s a fast ride on fresh spring trails when you forested mountain faces, over the back of sharp ridges have Max chasing you down the hill. or towering peaks - there is just so much more for me still to discover here in this one area. As we got closer to the valley floor, the trail becomes more broken. Short sections of fun trail between rustic In May the lifts have not opened yet and so this little groups of houses, barns with weathered and weekend called for some of my good friends to cracked timber slab walls and grey slate roofs with drop by, coming together to do some exploring and moss growing between the tiles. These scenes are hanging out together. On this day we chose to ride the common but I always enjoy passing by these relics of 700 vertical meters by road up to col de Joux Plane at quality and old craftsmanship. 1700 meters altitude. From the col another 300 meters on walking trails gets you up to 2000 meters and the We had just had lunch in one of the café’s in the quaint epic viewpoint of Pointe de Chamoissière. Samoens village, scenes of church spires dwarfed by massive cliff faces directly behind town, with full So the day started with a top up of croissants and tummies we were quite happy for a lift back up. coffee in a local Morzine patisserie, this had us brimming, charged and ready to go. We started the From the top you have a range of options, either long road climb up out of the deep valley from town. dropping into the Les Gets bike park to your left or After about an hour we started hitting snow drifts that traversing out to the right and dropping any variations stretched across the road, we had a lot of laughs trying of the red trail that brings you back around to Morzine, to sprint and make it across these retreating icy snow either option will bring back near to the towns craft deposits. brewery, the Bec Jaune.
Passing the lake at the col de Joux Plane, we turned This is just one of the days and trails outside of the bike onto the snow covered walking trail and soon enough park that I love to ride, there are many more for the reached the viewpoint of Pointe de Chamoissière. keen map reader and the prepared adventurer. Standing by the standard French mountain top cross, we were treated to clear views out to Mont Blanc in Remember that this is the mountains, weather can one direction and Lake Geneva in the other. From here, change fast and trips can take a lot longer than the fun begins, following the old walking track ridge expected, so take the right gear and equipment, even if descent towards Samoens. Dropping in with whoops the sun is out and you are thinking it is just going to be of delight we followed the open grass ridge down to a quick mission. the tree line.
14 MORZINE FRANCE ORE Point of departure / Morzine MTB / BHE-58 Finish / Morzine Vertical rise / 1000 m
Where to go? / morzine-mtb.com Follow Jamie on Instagram / @jamienicolladventures
High-end mountain bike helmet that keeps you safe during every ride. This helmet has closed sides for head protection during any mountain bike and e-mtb adventure. And a in height adjustable visor to keep the sun out of your face.
CHECK FOR ALL OUR HELMETS: BBBCYCLING.COM/APPAREL/HELMETS
FULLVIEW PH MTB + RACE / BSG-53PH
These glasses give you literally a full view without boundaries. The frameless and open design make the FullView lightweight and only slightly noticeable. You will barely feel you wear glasses during your rides.
CHECK FOR ALL OUR SPORT GLASSES: BBBCYCLING.COM/APPAREL/SPORT-GLASSES
15 TEXT BAS TOOMS // PHOTOS CAPTUREDNL BIKE FITTING WITH LISE VISSER SADDLE SORE IS DEFINITELY NOT PART OF THE DEAL
Are you one of those cyclists who think that saddle sore and pain are the inevitable downsides of cycling? Get a bike fit and consider a different saddle, because there’s much to gain, says BBB ambassador Lise Visser.
16 BIKE FITTING LISE VISSER Most people do their bike fitting themselves, or their bike Over the course of the session, Florian keeps finding more mechanic gives it a well-intended try. This will do the seemingly small issues, like a snapping hip. Then he puts trick for some, but everyone stands to gain from a bike fit his thumbs into Lise’s back. Her face disappears into and in some cases: a lot to gain. the white examination table, she gasps and her fingers grasp the fabric cover of the table. “I felt that alright,” she Bike fits come in all shapes and sizes, but if you’re looking admits. to be comfortable on your bike and want only the best for your derrière, bike fitting advice and material are not to Lise should visit a physical therapist more often. And be skimped on. That’s why Robic in Amsterdam spends she should make sure her bicycle fits her body perfectly. two hours analysing Lise in and out before she returns That’s where bike fitter Wouter Ruchtie comes in. In the home with BBB’s flagship saddles: the Echelon and the next room he has already mounted her bike on a trainer. Convoy. Florian goes through his findings with Wouter, who then knows what to pay particular attention to. Before trying the saddles on her new bike, however, Lise steps into physical therapist Florian Smits’ room. At Wouter immediately notices there’s a standard issue Robic, every bike fit starts with a screening session with saddle on Lise’s bike. That’s far from ideal. He puts a their physio. Lise is measured, weighed, and thoroughly saddle cover with a pressure mat on Lise’s saddle, fits tested. Florian examines her physical constitution, injuries, insoles with pressure plates in her shoes, and rigs her with and ambitions. And most importantly: what does she all kinds of sensors. The sensors produce heat maps on feel when riding thousands of miles a year as part of her Wouter’s screen. He can see exactly where improvement team, de Jonge Renner? can be made and what he needs to adjust to better fit Lise on her bike. “Really no complaints, or no real complaints?” The question surprises Lise. “Well, I do occasionally have Wouter notices a large gap in power distribution between shoulder and back pain, but that’s really no big deal.” The left and right. Similarly, Lise leans more on the right side pain flares up especially on long rides, and lingers for days of the saddle. Wouter manages to partly remedy this afterwards. Florian shakes his head several times over the by adjusting her shoe cleats and saddle height, but Lise course of the consultation. “Of course it shouldn’t be like clearly needs a different, wider saddle. that.” First in line is the Convoy, a robust saddle that offers “Everyone thinks a little pain and great support on long rides. It also has a pressure- relieving channel that makes sure the bloodstream isn’t discomfort come standard with cycling, obstructed. but whoever came up with that?” Every time a change has been made in the setup, Lise has to pedal for a few minutes to generate new heat maps. Yet many riders are content with it. “Everyone thinks The red areas in the heat maps are a lot less pronounced, a little pain and discomfort come standard with yet Wouter isn’t entirely satisfied yet. cycling, but whoever came up with that?”, he says while instructing Lise through some stretching exercises that That’s why he fits the bike with a wider, 155 mm version of test her mobility. the Echelon. Designed with a pressure-relieving cut-out in the middle, the saddle should be a perfect match for Saddles play an important part. No two people are built Lise’s ambitions: the Echelon is perfect for cycling fanatics the same, let alone their bikes and their positions on who want to take long rides in an aggressive position. them. So why settle for a standard issue saddle? Wouter’s screen shows him that he’s got it right: the heat maps are much more symmetrical and the red areas have all but disappeared.
BIKE FITTING LISE VISSER 17 “Wow, what a difference!”, Lise cries out as soon as she starts pedalling. The saddle suits her build and offers CONVOY support in all the right places. RACE / BSD-154 /BSD-155 Amazing what a two-hour bike fit and a different saddle can do. It makes you think: why spend hundreds, if not thousands of dollars on a bike, and then try to economize on a proper fit? You and your bottom deserve better.
Video / bit.ly/bbb-saddles-video
Race saddle made of durable synthetic leather, for cyclists who ride in a competitive cycling posture. Equipped with a central relief channel to reduce pressure under your pubic arch. The saddle has a core consisting out of light foam with hard density for the best support during long rides.
Available in different width sizes.
Follow Lise on Instagram / @lise_visser Sponsored by Robic / www.robic.nl ECHELON RACE / BSD-141 /142 / 143
Are you that competitive road cyclist who is going for every bit of extra speed? Try out our high-end Echelon saddle with central relief cut-out to reduce pressure under your pubic arch. Suitable for race and mountain biking. And available in three different width sizes.
Available in different width sizes.
CHECK OUT ALL OUR SADDLES: BBBCYCLING.COM/PARTS/SADDLES-SEATPOSTS/SADDLES
18 BIKE FITTING LISE VISSER welovecycling.nl brought to you by ŠKODA 19
SKO1652-01 Advertentie Engels SKODA WeLoveCycling Magazine 200x270 c1 v1.indd 1 29-01-19 09:32 TEXT JACK THOMPSON // PHOTOS ZAC WILLIAMS
THE KING OF THE MOUNTAIN THE MOST EXTREME ENDURANCE CYCLIST IN THE WORLD
The mountain had fallen over. As far as I was concerned, it may as well have had. I was stalled some 1,000 meters into my first of four ascents of the world’s toughest climb, The Taiwan KOM.
WULING PASS, Taiwan
20 THE KING OF THE MOUNTAIN At 105 kilometers in length, starting at sea level, you rise One wrong turn or miscalculation in the wet could see to the peak at 3,275 meters having battled gradients me plummeting hundreds of meters to the gorges below. of up to 27 percent. Any sane cyclist would consider Naturally, we agreed to embark using our wet weather completing it once in their lifetime to be a great plan given the forecast. achievement. So naturally, I had flown into Taiwan early in order to complete the climb four times, nonstop… The I closed my eyes and took a deep breath of the fresh air. first three would be completed prior to the TAIWAN KOM I knew I was standing on a narrow road on the side of event itself with the fourth being completed as part of a mountain deep within the Taiwanese jungle, but the the race. The stats are frightening, roughly 700 kilometers moisture in the air and the leafy scent it carried belied my and 15,000 meters of elevation gain. Or, the vertical senses and a wave of tranquillity washed over me. I put height of Mt. Everest plus an additional 6,000 meters. my faith in the stability of the mountain and clambered I’d walked away from my traditional nine-to-five life into the van. “Well we’re stuck at the side of the new almost three years ago in order to pursue my passion to peak,” I joked. We all shared a nervous laugh while we become the world’s most extreme ultra endurance cyclist tried not to think about what this delay might mean. “It’s and this particular challenge had been a major bucket alright”, I reassured everyone. “We’ll just have to see.” list item for quite some time. My faith was soon rewarded, and I was off up the mountain again. The remainder of the first ascent went “Any sane cyclist would consider without fault, and by three-thirty I was at the mountain completing this once in their lifetime to peak, looking down at the clouds meandering below. The be a great achievement. So naturally, I air was different; cool, crisp, and refreshing. I sucked in a lungful of the oxygen depleted fuel and tore myself away had flown into Taiwan early in order to from the view. I’ll be back in no time, I told myself as I set complete the climb four times, nonstop…” off for the first of three steep descents.
The sun had just set as I reached the bottom, some three I looked down at the grey road and then up at the hours later, and fittingly, I enjoyed a romantic dinner at a grey sky ahead. The road workers told me that the mountain-side 7/11. Spaghetti Bolognese, peanut butter road would remain closed due to a rock slide, and that sandwich, Snickers bar and coconut Water. Nutrition they’d be opening it for just ten minutes every hour to plays an enormous role in a ride such as this and as part let traffic through. I frantically ran numbers in my head: of my preparations. My nutritionist and I had lengthy A two-hour delay (at best) on each trip could seriously discussion around how I was going to remain well fueled jeopardize my expedition. I looked up at the heavy for the entirety of the vert without losing my appetite cloud cover and remember thinking to myself, that’s through palette fatigue (too much sugar!). The plan was assuming the weather cooperates and everything else to consume 90 grams of carbohydrate every hour. On goes to plan…The weather was forecast to be miserable the ascents, I would consume sweet foods high in sugar with rain scheduled non-stop for 48 hours. As part of my and on the descents I’d switch to savoury foods whilst preparations I had planned both a ‘Wet weather’ and ‘Dry still meeting the 90 grams of carbohydrate requirement Weather’ schedule. The wet weather schedule had me in order to keep my bodies fuel tank topped up. It was departing some six hours earlier than the dry schedule in important to arrive at the bottom of the mountain with order to account for the reduced speeds that would be enough fuel on board to immediately start climbing required on the descents. again.
JACK THOMPSON 21 I managed to complete the second ascent without any issues. The road blockage had long since been cleared and I was able to push on to the peak without the need for stoppages.
I reached the summit at two in the morning, I had covered 315 kilometres, but was not even half way. The wind had picked up considerably. Blowing at around thirty knots, the subzero temperatures had me shivering and eager to make my way down and below the exposed wind line. I threw on my winter layers and scurried back down the mountain through the cold gusts and arctic air.
Upon reaching the bottom I completed a 180’ turn and shot right back up again. Feeling invigorated by the rising sun as it threw long shadows across the Taroko Gorge, I was once again reminded of the balance between the landscapes beauty and harshness. It was upon commencing my third ascent that I realized the weather had in fact cooperated, that there hadn’t been and wouldn’t be any rain, we were ahead of schedule by 5 hours and that if I pushed just a bit, maybe I could even complete a fourth ascent ahead of the race… Perhaps I was getting ahead of myself and needed to concentrate on the original plan, although I had 420 kilometres under the belt and had still 340 to go.
Film crew in tow, we decided to concentrate on completing the third ascent— with bad weather now forecast to arrive later in the day there was no need to risk completing a fourth ascent prior to the race. I’m not sure where the energy came from, but I shot up and down the mountain in no time at all. Whether it was the mental boundary I’d just conquered having now crossed the halfway line or the deep desire to secretly want that fourth ascent pre-race, my ascents were getting faster and faster, even with the enormity of fatigue in my legs. Back at the bottom, eight hours before the race, legs feeling good, the rain begun to fall, and thunder clapped from afar. We made the tough decision to get some rest, eat a few big meals, and prepare for the main event.
The gun went off and 600 plus riders erupted into chaos. The first 18 kilometres of the KOM are a warm up and consist of relatively level riding along the coast until the first turn off the “Taroko Gorge bridge”. As is the nature of any ‘race’ the riders around me were jockeying for position, trying to get ahead of the pack instead of saving themselves for the steep grades up ahead. Inevitably, there were crashes and angry words exchanged between riders. I was content to ride conservatively — my priority was reaching the top, and any sort of crash or equipment failure would’ve been catastrophic in achieving my goals.
As the ascent geared up, I began to pass many of the riders who had gone hard out the gates. I was feeding off the energy of the race. I was anxious nearly the entire way up, worrying about a mechanical issue, or a myriad of other things that could go wrong, but I was also buzzing with excitement.
22 THE KING OF THE MOUNTAIN - JACK THOMPSON The adventure’s nearly over, I told myself and I’ll have completed something that’s never been done before, COMMANDER something that people told me just wasn’t possible. ROAD + MTB / BSG-61 Before I knew it, I was fighting the steep gradients of the final 10 kilometers. Gradients of 20+ percent are the norm and this section alone accounted for close to 20 percent of the entire ascent time. I passed ‘riders’ who were now walking their bikes to the peak. I took a deep breath of the mountain air, and remembered that rock slide on the first ascent. A wave of tranquillity washed over me again. I put my faith in the land one more time and pushed on.
The first person I saw at the summit was my father. Then the film crew. As I shook my old man’s hand and looked into his eyes, we shared a quiet moment together. Our mission was complete and I’d ticked off one of my biggest goals to date. I felt good, high on the energy and the accomplishment that we’d just achieved. We spent some time chatting about the race, the difficult parts, the crashes in the beginning, and the tricky passes. We then shot down about twelve kilometers to a less-crowded cafe and sank our teeth into the most delicious pork bun’s Futuristic designed sports glasses with a wide lens for an optimal we’ve ever had. Challenge now complete, I could now stop view. Fits on everyone’s head because of the unique three step worrying about endurance nutrition and concentrate solely temple adjustment system. Ideal to fit together with your helmet. on recovery and re-fueling. It will stop the fight for the same position at the side of your head.
Three hours later, back at the hotel, I had an irresistible craving for bubble tea. I was yet to shower and my taste buds were drawing me to the sugar goodness that is Taiwanese bubble tea. The four of us wandered across the CHECK FOR ALL OUR SPORT GLASSES: street, my father the photographer and the videographer BBBCYCLING.COM/APPAREL/SPORT-GLASSES and I into the nearest café. We had all been awake for 40 hours and were pretty exhausted, adrenalin was keeping us awake. The reality was now sinking in and the scale of what I had achieved. As I took that first sip, a wave of contentment washed over me. I had mentally prepared FALCON (ONLY SOLD IN AUSTRALIA) for the challenge to be hard and it was, but I knew I was RACE + MTB / BHE-01AS capable of even more, so immediately began thinking about the next challenge. It was at this moment, as my phone went crazy with messages from friends, family and fellow riders from around the world that I knew my life was on the right path. I want to inspire others to push themselves, to surprise themselves with what they’re capable of doing.
Early in 2019 I will compete my next extreme challenge. Again, people have told me that it’s an impossible feat and again, I’m looking forward to proving them wrong.
Video / bit.ly/jack-kom
An iconic and light road cycling helmet for cyclists that want to keep their head cool. No climb is too high with the Falcon on your head, since it’s proved to be a hero in ventilation at low speed. You stay cool and it looks great with your kit of choice.
CHECK FOR ALL OUR HELMETS: BBBCYCLING.COM/APPAREL/HELMETS Follow Jack on Instagram / @jackcyclesfar Link / www.jackultracyclist.com
23 TEXT FREDERIK VAN BEUKERING // PHOTOS BBB CYCLING
NECESSITIES HOW TO REPLACE - Torx-T BTL-46 - BracketGrip BTL-27L or DISC BRAKES? LockOut BTL-12C/S 6-BOLT OR CENTERLOCK DISC - CenterFit BBS-90 The pads in disc brakes are the parts of the brake that will wear out the fastest. But when a disc brake is used intensively you also have to replace the disc at a certain point. You know when to replace this part as the disc has become thinner than 1,7mm. Most of the discs have indicators to show this. You don’t need to go to the bicycle shop, as you can easily do it yourself.
STEP 1 STEP 2
6-BOLT DISC BRAKE CENTERLOCK SYSTEM
First you have to check if your bicycle is equipped with a 6-bolt disc brake To replace the disc of your disc brakes, you need to remove the wheel from or Centerlock system. When you have a bicycle with a 6-bolt disc brake it your bike. Open the quick-release system (when this is the way your wheel is attached with six bolts to the wheel. A disc with the Centerlock system is attached to the bike) and remove the wheel. is attached directly to the hub of the wheel. Both systems require a different approach in removing the disc.
STEP 3 STEP 4
6-BOLT DISC BRAKE 6-BOLT DISC BRAKE Remove the old disc that is attached to the hub of the wheel with six bolts. Place the new disc on the hub of the wheel. Tighten the bolts one by one. Use a torx key to do this. Make sure you tighten them proportional. Start with one bolt and go on with the opposite one every time. Lubricate the bolts a bit before tightening. This CENTERLOCK SYSTEM to make sure dirt, water and sand don’t pollute the bolts. Pay attention to Use the BracketGrip to remove the old disc from the hub of the wheel. the angle of the disc, it has to be attached parallel to the wheel. Place the tool on the washer and turn. When it comes loose you can pick the disc of the wheel. CENTERLOCK SYSTEM Place the new disc on the hub of the wheel. You don’t have to pay attention to the angle of the disc. But, make sure the right side of the disc is turned to the outside. Now attach the washer and mount the disc. Tighten the disc on about 40Nm - with reasonable power.
24 HOW TO REPLACE DISC BRAKES? STEP 5
Video / bit.ly/workshop-tools-video
BRACKETGRIP Did you buy 6-bolt discs from BBB, but you have a bicycle with Centerlock WORKSHOP / BTL-27L system? Then you will need the CenterFit (BBS-90) adapter to mount the disc to the wheel. Place the disc in between the black and silver part of the adapter and attach it to the wheel.
CENTERFIT WORKSHOP / BBS-90
Bottom bracket grip that is suitable to remove bigger centerlock- rings from centerlock disc brake systems as well. With an ergonomic, dual-density grip for comfortable handling.
LOCKOUT STEP 6 WORKSHOP / BTL-12C /12S
If you are sure that the disc is mounted straight on the wheel, you can mount it on the bike again. Check if the disc and wheel are attached straight by turning the wheel with your hand. The wheel has to run smoothly. Compatible with either Campagnolo or Shimano cassettes. Or to remove smaller Centerlock-rings from Centerlock disc brake systems. With an ergonomic, dual-density grip for comfortable handling.
CHECK FOR ALL OUR WORKSHOP-TOOLS: BBBCYCLING.COM/TOOLS/WORKSHOP-TOOLS
25 TEXT LIESBETH KLERKEN // PHOTOS CAPTUREDNL BICYCLE TOURS IN THE EIFEL BEAUTIFUL CLIMBS AND FAST DESCENTS
Just beyond the German city of Aachen lies nature reserve the Eifel, the German Ardennes. Less than an hour’s drive from the Dutch border, we arrive at the pictorial half-timbered town of Monschau. A charming German village where time seems to have come to a standstill. Wedged between hills, it is characterized by typical German houses with wooden beams running across the walls. This will be our hideout for the rest of the weekend.
EIFEL, Germany
26 BICYCLE TOURS IN THE EIFEL Dams and the Rur valley We wake up early the following morning, adrenaline rushing through our veins. We’re excited to explore the Eifel and can hardly wait to get underway. Starting at Monschau, we will ride a clockwise tour around the Rur Reservoir. It’s still early when we get on our bicycles and we follow the meanders of the Rur in the direction of the dams of the National Park. Quiet, minor roads lead us through varied terrain. Beautiful climbs alternate with fast descents. A golden glow in the distance precedes the sunrise over the hills. A warm day lies ahead.
The first big climb of the day near Widdau forces us out of the saddle: 15 percent grades is something we don’t see every day. The vantage point at a height of 470 meters offers a free view of the large forests of the Eifel National Park. The awesome switchback descent into Woffelsbach requires focus and takes us back into the valley in no time. Cycling between the vineyards Again we get out of bed early, anxious to see what more The Eifel natural park stretches around the dams that the Eifel has to offer. Today starts with a transfer to the we will circle today. The hilly area consists of tracts of town of Bad Neuenahr. This spa town is particularly well unspoiled nature and vast forests. The large dams and known for its Apollinaris source. From the town, we will enormous “Maare”, the characteristic round lakes in the take a bicycle tour through a wine region, although Vulkan Eifel area, are some of the natural attractions there’s no indication of this in the town itself. of the Eifel National Park. They are a must-see, with or without a bicycle. We make our way along cosy half- This tour has no shortage of picturesque towns as well, timbered towns and castles that make this region an but the main attraction today is the vineyards along excellent holiday destination. About halfway, we make the Ahr River. Leaving Bad Neuenahr, our legs are a well-earned stop in the town of Heimbach. Time for a immediately put to the test. Only a few hundred yards snack and a cup of coffee. into today’s ride, the first climb awaits us, with an average grade of 9 percent. At this point we haven’t seen any vines After lunch, we are bursting with energy, we’re ready to yet, but we will very soon. tackle new climbs. Pretty soon the forests are replaced with vast hills. Steep climbs are interspersed with gradual When we reach the top, we enjoy the fabulous view of descents. A leisurely pace takes us along deserted roads the Ahr valley and the town of Dernau. All along the river, through fields, back to Monschau. Once we arrive at our vines seem to be crawling up the hill. What a splendid destination, we give our legs a rest in view of the next day. view! The south-facing slopes of the Ahr Hills between Altenahr and Bad Neuenahr are particularly well-suited to wine growing. The Ahr valley, with its production of red wine, is almost reminiscent of the Mediterranean.
We follow the twisting river that has painstakingly made Starting point / Monschau its way through the landscape. Riding through the rough, Destination / Monschau rocky terrain, it feels like we have entered a different Distance / 80 km world where vineyards and arid rock form a unique Vertical elevation / 1,300 m whole.
Where to go? / bit.ly/komoot-monschau Sponsored by NL-Connection / www.nl-connection.com
BICYCLE TOURS IN THE EIFEL 27 Video / bit.ly/bbb-clothing-video
OMNIUM RACE / BBW-249
Soon after we whizz down between the vineyards of the Schlosshof estate, we reach some sort of gorge leading from Laach to Mayschoß. It’s all about wine in this place. We can’t begin to imagine how grapes are This jersey is specially designed for women and made out of harvested on these steep hills. When we reach the end stretch materials that absorbs perspiration perfectly. The pre- of the 235 meters long bicycle tunnel, we decide to take shaped sleeves and anti-slip power band in the waist give this a short stop in Altenahr. What if the wine region ends shirt its perfect fit. just as unexpectedly as it started? We’d better enjoy it while it lasts. ATTACHI RACE / BBW-401 We take a stroll on one of the old bridges crossing the Ahr in the wine town before getting on our bikes again. A few miles on, Burg Kreuzberg is perched on a rock above the town. This is the last inhabited castle in the Ahr valley. We gradually leave the vineyards of the Ahr valley to rejoin a landscape of fields and forests.
We have the road almost entirely to ourselves and make good headway. After the final climb at Hilberath, we ride through the vineyards back to Bad Neuenahr. High time for a glass of Spätburgunder aka Pinot Noir.
Premium cycling jersey with a clean and sleek design. Due to the Starting point / Bad Neuenahr anatomic panels, stretch materials and flat seams the jersey feels Destination / Bad Neuenahr comfortable and will fit perfectly around the body. Made of fast- Distance / 82,6 km drying polyester and spandex to keep you dry during every ride. Vertical elevation / 1,180 m
Where to go? / bit.ly/komoot-bad-neuenahr CHECK FOR ALL OUR CLOTHING: Sponsored by NL-Connection / www.nl-connection.com BBBCYCLING.COM/APPAREL
28 BICYCLE TOURS IN THE EIFEL “Be the master of the road”
When you go for optimal air flow and safety during every ride, you choose the Maestro! Its unique HaloGuard© construction makes this helmet able to resist all kinds of shocks. And its seventeen air vents optimizes ventilation. Compact, strong and /BHE-09 designed to make you the master of the road. - BBBCYCLING.COM/BHE-09-MAESTRO
29 TEXT BAS TOOMS // PHOTOS CAPTUREDNL PREPARING FOR THE CLASSICS THE WAYS OF WANTY-GOBERT
People who race through the rolling countryside of East Flanders, making their way over the cobble stones and through picturesque villages, feel the cycling history that has been written here. Somewhere between these scenic views, one has to visit Geraardsbergen. There you will find The Muur of Geraardsbergen, and at the edge of the village the home of a monument to Flemish cycling: Wanty-Gobert team leader Hilaire Van der Schueren (71).
30 WANTY Today we follow this Pro Continental cycling team during Against the background of a chopped down tree, the reconnaissance of the Omloop Het Nieuwsblad surrounded by those little crutches in the shape of spring classic. The young riders gather on this sun- mushrooms, Van der Schueren goes around the corner. drenched day at the house of Van der Schueren and are A few moments later the door opens. “Eleven! Let’s go!” welcomed by the team leader and his wife, Betty. She runs the kitchen and prepares treats and coffee for Van der Schueren leaves his black sofa for a seat he feels everybody. just as comfortable in: the driving seat of the team car. As a septuagenarian, he wasn’t allowed to drive the team car during Belgian races, but thanks to a change of the rules, ”We are a family team.” he can start his fortieth season with the professionals. “It’s easy: you can drive a car or you can’t.”
When Van der Schueren settles down in a The wheels of the big blue team bus get in motion, black leather sofa in the living room, riders, three cars are packed with supplies, team members his “grandchildren,” stand by his chair. As and the press follow them. They make their way through the “head of the family”, he shows the riders narrow streets quickly and with ease. One wonders how some things on his phone. The 71-year-old this is possible at this speed in this cosy part of Van der has evolved with time. Strava, Twitter, you name Schueren’s hometown. it, he knows it. “I might be old-fashioned, but I don’t stand still. The answer follows soon in the form of a man on a Wanty- I feel 40.” blue scooter who stops traffic with his arms spread wide until the caravan has passed. His scooter has stickers of Wanty-Gobert is a special team. ”We are a family the team, he is wearing a Wanty shirt. A matching helmet team.” And you feel that atmosphere in his compliments his outfit. He has, tied to his handlebar with house. an elastic band, a folded flag between his legs.
The spring classic has returned to the Muur His name is Luc, ‘Banner Luc’. He is the mascot. In the of Geraardsbergen. The organization decided meantime, Luc races by again on his blue race monster. De Omloop needed change. The focus in Up to the next crossing. the final now lies on the iconic duo Muur of Geraardsbergen-Bosberg. At the beginning of the reconnaissance, the team exits the bus in all their glory. Everyone is wearing the newest The team leader thinks that’s wonderful. But BBB glasses, the Commander, which they received today. these changes mean a lot for the team. That’s why he is so busy today. “We will focus on the The team has put on their Icarus helmets, ‘Banner Luc’ chances to get to the front of the race and the takes his off. Under all the Wanty embellishments, a effect of the wind on certain sections.” middle-aged man appears: Luc van Steenberge. “A quick catch-up with the team members.” He has been The goal for this season is easy, says Van der following the team for years, and ever since his fellow Schueren: to win the Europe Tour again. “The first two villager Van der Schueren has led the team, he has been spots are, as of 2020, rewarded with a place in all races promoted to mascot. of the World Tour. That gives us the chance to compete in another major stage race, like the Vuelta. We want to On days like this, he joins the team. In fact, he does that keep growing, but not yet to World Tour level. for all classics in Belgium. He rides ahead of the team, This would be asking too much of a small team like ours.” tries to clear roads and unrolls his banner every once in a while to cheer on the team. On race days, he races “One, two, three...” Van der Schueren counts his riders as between spots to do this several times. “I save up all my he paces up and down. Van der Schueren disappears holidays for it.” What does he get in return? “Good contact outside. with the riders and a shirt.”
WANTY 31 The bikes are taken off the team cars and Van der Everybody races up at a quick pace. It’s like the guys Schueren counts his men again. “Eleven! Let’s go!” can smell Betty’s spaghetti already. This is standard practice at the preparation for the first classic. The The yellow signs of the organization lead us through lady of the house, who used to run a restaurant, serves Belgian villages where it seems like time has stood a three-course meal in the Van der Schueren youth still. The same goes for the roads. Each village means centre, soup, followed by spaghetti bolognese and a new cobbled section. Somewhere between the freshly baked rice flan. Nobody is short of anything. meadows south of Gent, the caravan stops.
“Where are those waffles?!” Rider Frederik Backaert “Cycling and the farm life, lets air out of his tires, while team members walk by those worlds are so amazing... with waffles and new drinking bottles. At the first rest I am a happy man.” room break and team meeting, the 6 bar in the tires of most riders seems still too much. Van der Schueren is nowhere in sight. When he eventually sits down to a plate of pasta, he tells us “They really are a lot better about his other passion. “When I’m not busy with than what I’m used to. It’s nice cycling, I work on the farm. I have twenty beef cattle to have a big visor and they’re and a piece of land.” Blue and white are the colours of incredibly light.” Wanty, the Belgian Blue is the breed of cow he has on his farm, a couple of kilometers down the road.
After receiving their snacks, Backaert takes off his “Cycling and the farm life, those worlds are so Commander glasses. It’s the first time he’s worn these amazing... I am a happy man.” glasses. “They really are a lot better than what I’m used to. It’s nice to have a big visor and they’re incredibly light.”
With half a waffle in his mouth, he gets back on his bike. The familiar “Let’s go!” of the team leader has sounded.
This continues for the full 120 kilometers of the reconnaissance. Until the final. There, riders attack and everybody tries to give it a go, just before the hardest part of this reconnaissance: the Muur of Geraardsbergen.
The climb of this cobbled road on the Oudenberg consist of short stretches with a rise of nearly 20 percent. Nice, but in the first place, it’s the cobbles, the aesthetics, and the wonderful chapel at the top that make this climb a monument for the Flemish. The cobbles are placed kind of like shark teeth, and Follow Wanty-Gobert Cycling Team on Instagram / @teamwantygobert that makes them an unpredictable trap that can only More stories / www.bbbcycling.com/stories be survived at high speed.
32 WANTY Icarus RACE / BHE-05
Specially designed for road cyclists who want to keep their head cool. And used on the highest level by the road cyclists of Wanty-Gobert Cycling Team. This helmet is state-of-the-art when it comes to ventilating helmets. With its proper airflow, lightweight and an excellent fit in a compact design.
CHECK OUT FOR ALL OUR HELMETS: BBBCYCLING.COM/APPAREL/HELMETS
COMMANDER MTB + RACE / BSG-61
Futuristic designed sports glasses with a wide lens for an optimal view. Fits on everyone’s head because of the unique three step temple adjustment system. Ideal to fit together with your helmet. It will stop the fight for the same position at the side of your head.
CHECK FOR ALL OUR SPORT GLASSES: BBBCYCLING.COM/APPAREL/SPORT-GLASSES
33 TEXT JACK THOMPSON // PHOTOS BBB CYCLING THE MAESTRO HOW A NEW HELMET EVOLVES FROM THE DRAWING BOARD TO FINAL PRODUCTION
There are aero helmets and there are lightweight helmets. Each claiming to ‘do this’ and ‘do that.’ … Obviously, the primary purpose for wearing a helmet, is to protect the head in case of an accident. Helmet manufacturers would have you believe that ‘their latest’ helmet is the greatest, be it because of the aero advantage it delivers to the rider, or the weight saving it offers (weight weenies rejoice!).
34 THE MAESTRO When looking at ‘top of the range’ helmets from the Moving forward and with the concept drawings complete well-known brands, cost is often a prohibitive factor (this can take months and months of hard work), various for consumers with prices upwards of $250 being the 3D models are printed in house so that the actual size norm. ... But here’s where things get interesting. What if and shape can be assessed and reviewed. As is the case I told you that Dutch cycling industry leaders, BBB, had with many helmets, when perched on the head of the designed and manufactured a helmet that possessed all rider, they look ‘mushroom-esque.’ This is a feature that the latest tech currently on offer and bundled it up into a BBB are adamant that their helmets DO NOT possess and package for 50 percent of the cost? Most would probably in the case of the Maestro, the sleep lines and low profile laugh and say, ‘you’re dreaming.’ are quite the opposite.
The reality is, that I’m not… When I visited the BBB Following on from the 3D models comes the first actual Cycling headquarters in the Netherlands last year, I was prototypes (often in outlandish patterns and colours.) let in on a little secret. Over the past couple of years, Again, during this phase, there is a huge amount of while their competitors have been releasing new helmet consultation both internally and with the professional year after year, BBB have quietly been working away on riders to ensure that the shape and fit are perfect. one of their most exciting projects yet. Low and behold, Refinements take place slowly over months of field ‘The Maestro’ helmet. testing in various conditions.
Building on the success of their Icarus and Falcon helmets, worn by professionals from teams such as Vaconsoleil, Équipe cycliste Groupama–FDJ and Wanty- Gobert Cycling Team in the ranks of the pro-peloton over the last five years, BBB saw a unique opportunity to carefully design an industry leading helmet that combines impressive levels of ventilation (for hot days and climbing) along with world class aerodynamics (for flat days at high speed) at a fraction of the price of their competitors.
With input from Arnaud Demare, Ramon Sinkeldam and the rest of the Équipe cycliste Groupama–FDJ Team (to name a few), BBB are now very close to the release of this impressive feat of engineering, to the consumer market, at price points never seen in this category of head protection.
So, what exactly goes into the development of a new helmet such as the Maestro at BBB’s R&D headquarters in Leiden and how does this concept evolve from the drawing board to final production?
First things first. The talented R&D team looks at the demand for a new product. In the case of the ‘Maestro’ helmet, the main driver was to produce a highly ventilated helmet that also offered high levels of aerodynamics in a complete package that would retail for less than 100 euros.
From here, the team looks at how they can add value to ensure the products they are developing stand out from the competition. The next step involves the arduous testing phase where the helmet is put to the test from a safety perspective. Although passing the European standards is often not a problem, the difficulty comes in passing the overseas standards, like the American CPSC and its Australian counterparts as the methods of testing are quite different. This explains why a lot of helmets are not available for the Australian market.
With the testing complete, the final product goes into the production phase and is then sent to the various markets.
The above process ‘reads easy’ however in practise, the process can take years, especially in the case of the Maestro where there are three big drivers. In the case of an aero helmet for example, there is generally just the ‘aerodynamic driver,’ but as outlined above, the brief for the Maestro was ventilation, aerodynamics and cost combined. These are drivers that are often looked at by brands as three individual helmets, this explains the longer development phase that the Maestro has been through.
At the time of my visit I was unable to physically test the Maestro on the road. But, I was able to try the helmet on at the BBB HQ and can ‘hand on my heart,’ say that it is a seriously nice piece of kit. Nowadays I enjoy riding with this piece of art on my head, conquering all my challenges. The helmet will be available in a raft of different colours.
MAESTRO RACE / BHE-09
Video / bit.ly/bbb-helmets-video When you go for optimal air flow and safety during every ride, you choose the Maestro! Its unique HaloGuard© construction makes this helmet able to resist all kinds of shocks. And its 17 air vents optimizes ventilation. Compact, strong and designed to make you the master of the road.
CHECK OUT FOR ALL OUR HELMETS: BBBCYCLING.COM/APPAREL/HELMETS
36 37 TEXT JAMES SHIRLEY // PHOTOS ROSS BELL DISCOVERING THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS KINLOCHLEVEN, SCOTLAND
Kinlochleven – it’s not far from home but every time I go, it always feels like an adventure. It’s a wild and rugged place and usually saved for special occasions. In the summer I can cycle directly south from where I stay, up and over the mountains to get there.
FORT WILLIAM, Scotland
38 JAMES SHIRLEY “The winter conditions aren’t often favourable in the Highlands of Scotland but it was going to be a good day.”
FORT WILLIAM 39 In winter, however, the rivers are too deep to cross Soon enough it was our turn to get in amongst it. and the low sun casts a serious time limit on the day. We weren’t going far, but I knew we’d be exposed So much so that the village of Kinlochleven, which is to the elements on the open slopes higher up so I nestled on the shore at the head of Loch Leven (hence made sure that everyone had sufficient clothing. The the name – ‘Kin’, derived from the Gaelic language Deltashield trousers are always my go-to choice for meaning ‘head’, never actually sees direct sunlight in winter riding. Even on the most technical terrain they the darkest months of the year. have the right fit to avoid catching the back of the saddle and with their stretch fabric they don’t restrict Despite the village lying in the shadows, the beauty movement either. of the surrounding landscape never ceases to amaze. The view from above is so stunning that when I heard The climbs in Kinlochleven are steep so I didn’t our photographer Ross Bell hadn’t been before, I need anything more than a Triguard jersey to begin knew it was a trip that we had to make. With us with but I knew the Stormshield jacket would come we took our friend Miles Mallinson who is a local in handy on the way back down. I took it in my videographer, bike mechanic and all-round good guy. backpack along with some spare Raceshield gloves and an emergency base layer just in case. Before the sun had risen, I was already on the road to pick up the boys from town (Fort William). A call for We arrived at the West Highland Way footpath. The drive through coffee was made but, of course, the van full thing stretches 154 kilometers from Glasgow to was too tall to fit, so I left the engine running (never Fort William but we only used it for about 500 meters fully trusting if it’ll start back up again) and we dashed to gain altitude to the tarmac access. That section in and out. of footpath is steep and tricky with some small stream crossings and slippery stone steps that would It’s only a 40 minute drive from Fort William and challenge anyone’s climbing abilities. Miles with his along the way the day was already brightening up. trials inspired background made it look easy as I The winter conditions aren’t often favourable in the muscled my way up behind him. Highlands of Scotland, but it was going to be a good day. Once on the tarmac section our technical skills weren’t being questioned anymore but our fitness “Nowadays Kinlochleven is levels certainly were. It was super steep. As always. So, there we were grinding up side by side in first gear considered a gateway to the with the knowledge that it gets slightly better the mountains. There are paths and further up we go. Once we passed the old lodge the trails literally everywhere.” tarmac turned to gravel and the gradient levelled off a little. Pleased that we could resume normal conversation again we carried on climbing. However, Nowadays Kinlochleven is considered a gateway to the gravel consisted of quite large, loose stones so the mountains. There are paths and trails literally it was important to stay reasonably focussed and everywhere. Multiple land rover tracks allow modern maintain rear wheel traction. man and his vehicles to access the hills, yet the original mountain paths created by Highlanders over Once we were above the tree line the classic view of many centuries of living off the land are all there too. the Loch became apparent. We stopped on a number Hikers, trials motor bikers and fellow mountain bikers of occasions to take it in and with every rest-stop the will be found enjoying their freedom round and about view became better and better. As we got closer to this giant wilderness. the top, we had to push the bikes through a gate in the fence that runs horizontally across the face of the hillside.
40 CONTENT The Land rover track carries on ahead and to the right-hand side we could see the ‘Grey Mares Tail’ path which leads NANGA down to the valley below and is named after the waterfall MTB / BHE-54 that is found at the bottom. This would be our option for a second lap of the day if we felt like we had sufficient time and energy to do so.
Looking out in front again we could start to depict our primary objective – the Loch Eilde path. It crosses our land rover track and keeps on going towards the peak of Binnein Mor. At this point I’d normally drop down to the right, but I thought it would be cool to climb a little bit higher up to the left instead. We knew we wouldn’t get far because the snow and ice-covered rocks made for treacherous conditions. After fifteen or twenty minutes we got as far as we could. We had a quick snack, took in the view for a few more moments and then I led the way as we turned around to start the last leg back to the van. Once we were at the land rover track again we crossed straight over to carry along the footpath. After a few flowing turns there was a steep and punchy climb before the descent really began. We took our breath, composed ourselves and then let rip. Mountain biking should be safe and fun. A perfect combination which comes together in our Nanga helmet. Its ABS shell and When I mentioned there being a network of trails earlier on, low sides provides you with the protection you need when riding it’s important to remember that these paths were not built the trails. While the camera mount on top gives you the ability to with the idea of rolling wheels in mind. Foot erosion and the make the best shots of your rides. So, mount your camera and go! relentless battering of wind and rain is what has created the unique riding style in Kinlochleven.
I pedalled hard into the top section, through the water CHECK OUT ALL OUR HELMETS: splashes and over the top of the loose boulders as some BBBCYCLING.COM/APPAREL/HELMETS of them became dislodged and started to tumble down alongside me. I could hear poor Miles yelp as he had to negotiate some of the moving obstacles that I was creating for him. DELTASHIELD JACKET Once in the trees, everything became a lot more defined. MTB + URBAN / BBW-268 The trail began to weave its way through the woods and I could see Miles still hot on my heels as I turned out of every switchback. With a bit more flow to be had, I could start to relax and really enjoy the adventure. I love it when there is so much contrast to be had from riding just one trail. Kinlochleven has a huge mix of natural terrain and since it’s constantly evolving you always have to look ahead to see what’s coming next – even if you think you already know.
Once at the village the light had almost completely vanished. We threw the bikes in the back and took the van to catch the last few rays of the day. With a cup of tea in hand and some cheese and oatcakes to snack on we sat there reminiscing about the favourite parts of our ride.
When you wear the Deltashield jacket there are no longer excuses to stay inside on rainy days. This jacket protects you against cold, wind and rain. Ideal for mountain bikers and all year round Point of departure / Kinlochleven cyclists. And its ergonomic pre-shaped design makes this jacket a Finish / Kinlochleven perfect fit on the bike. Length / 20,4 km Vertical rise / 790 m
Where to go? / bit.ly/komoot-kinloch-loop CHECK OUT ALL OUR CLOTHING: Follow James on Instagram / @jamesy_boy_shirley BBBCYCLING.COM/APPAREL
41 TEXT WELOVECYCLING // PHOTOS WELOVECYCLING MISSION NOT-SO-IMPOSSIBLE MAKE ROADS SAFER FOR EVERYONE
With every facet and dimension of human Cyclists should increase their vigilance coexistence, one indisputable rule of thumb should Despite the fact that cyclists might seem helpless, be that willingness and tolerance takes you a long faced with a barrage of motorized vehicles, reckless way. And issues surrounding personal means of pedestrians, and poor cycling infrastructure, according transport are no different. In recent years, the way to ŠKODA AUTO’s (a Czech auto maker) research of thinking has started to shift towards seeing the into traffic safety, about 60 percent of riders get roads as public spaces for anyone rather than just a into trouble on their own account. How? Based on few specific types of vehicles. With the sprawling still statistics published by the Czech police, the main urban areas and increasing population, safety, mutual reasons are the following: understanding, respect, and cooperation of each road user group is in greater demand than ever. • No lights or reflective gear when riding in the dark • Cycling under the influence of alcohol No matter who makes the mistake or overlooks • Riding on highways even though it’s prohibited the danger, the cyclist (or the pedestrian) is always • Abruptly changing their direction and/or stopping, or the one to sustain major harm in a collision with a failing to give way motorized vehicle. Don’t be mistaken, though, no car • Failing to control the bike shaming is in order. Research and model situations • Lack of attention to road conditions and their have shown that some drivers did their training surroundings decades ago and/or were never made aware of a proper ‘etiquette’ when encountering a cyclist on the Lieutenant Colonel Jan Straka, a Czech police officer, road – such as the 1.5 meter of a safe pass distance or says that loss of control is one of the most common using the ‘Dutch Reach’ when exiting a vehicle, which and most tragic causes of cycling accidents, a feat is a method of opening car doors by turning your not exclusive to the Czech Republic but the whole of body and using the hand further from the handle, Europe. In more concrete terms, the above mentioned which forces drivers or passengers to look behind situations include failure to estimate the speed of them for passing cyclists. the bike, failure to brake in time to avoid an obstacle, and other mistakes one can make when riding a bike. The most common obstacles cyclists deal with while Failure to adjust speed to road conditions and failure commuting, such as ‘dooring’, close passes while to give way rank among the most tragic causes of overtaking, unnecessary speeding, the hostility of accidents. Let’s take a more detailed look at some of the traffic environment, and more might keep many, these to see the whole puzzle. including children, off bikes. Which is unfortunate because cycling has been shown to encourage Drinking and riding = not the best of buds healthy exercise and even to reduce obesity and Despite the never-ending discussion about the effects increase overall well-being. Let’s look at a few main of ‘having a few’ while in the saddle, the numbers culprits and issues cyclists face on the road each day speak clearly. The permitted alcohol limit for cyclists and which need to be addressed in order to turn in Germany is 0.16 percent. A level sufficient to make traffic into user-friendly and smoothly-operating you forget about winning the lottery the day before or business. about giving way to a bus on the main road. Looking overseas, some 21 percent of severe cycling accidents were caused by alcohol in the city of New York, USA, says a US Department of Health and Mental Hygiene’s study. 42 CONTENT Research carried out in a hospital in the Finnish city of Video / bit.ly/bbb-lights-video Kouvola gives similar figures: a full third of the 217 cyclists treated in the hospital within a period of two years were under the influence of alcohol. The percentage of cyclists who drink and ride is just a part of the issue, though, another important thing is the kind of injury they sustain as a result. While only a third of sober cyclists suffer a head injury, in case of drunk cyclists the number increases to 67 percent. This, of course, has much more devastating consequences while drunk-driving a motorised vehicle.
Full attention, please! Sponsored by Welovecycling / www.welovecycling.com/wide Mobile phones infiltrated every sphere of our everyday lives and cycling is no different – their effects on cyclists’ behaviour were researched by the Faculty of Behavioural STRIKE and Social Sciences in Groningen, the Netherlands. 24 URBAN + RACE + MTB / BLS-131 / BLS-132 people were cycling while having to handle a wide variety of tasks from sending messages to searching and finding their way on the display to making phone calls to listening to music on their phone. As a result, all participants started to lose speed and ride less predictably, as they moved closer to the centre of the cycle path, abruptly deviating from their course. Unsurprisingly, 83 percent of cyclists listening to music did not hear the instruction to stop.
On a similar topic, as vulnerable road users, cyclists need to be as predictable as possible for other traffic participants. Abrupt changes in direction or stopping suddenly are among the most common causes of accidents. At the same time, drivers should bear in mind that the minimum distance to be kept while overtaking a cyclist is 1.5 meters. A whole self-standing chapter is the issue of ‘dooring’ when cyclists get hit by a car door that suddenly swings open, either because a carefree cyclist rode too close to a parked car or the driver didn’t check their rear-view mirror. And we don’t even need to stress that helmets and hi-vis reflective clothing (or at least elements) are essential because attention and visibility go both ways – to see and to be seen. Streets of big cities can be a confusing tangle, especially at night, so it’s good to remember that life comes before fashion.
Despite all the risks, cycling is becoming safer still Even though the above-mentioned facts imply that cycling involves a lot of potential risks, research suggests that the benefits of this means of transport overrule its disadvantages. According to the results of one scientific study of the Danish university, the number of cyclists in Denmark has increased by 10 percent over the last twenty years. At the same time, the number of cycling injuries is 55 percent lower than in 1998. This trend is even more obvious in the capital city of Copenhagen where cycling traffic increased by 30 percent while the number of injuries decreased by 33 percent.
The research also shows that people who ride bikes on You will never be overtaken by the darkness with our Strike a regular basis have a 21 times higher chance that they’ll headlight. It provides you with the best possible light in all boost their health than that they’ll sustain an injury. So, circumstances. And is king in multi-functionality. You can mount the message is clear – saddle up! this light upside down due to its reversible head. This way you are always able to reach all buttons.
CHECK OUT ALL OUR LIGHTS: BBBCYCLING.COM/ACCESSORIES/LIGHTS
43 WIN!We hope you enjoyed reading the stories in this magazine. We would like to keep you updated with stories around BBB Cycling all year long. Our favorite channel to do so is Instagram. So, grab your chance and join. You can win a full BBB-outfit. In this way you will cycle into summer in style!
What do you need to do to win? Follow us on Instagram, @BBBCycling and join the quiz in our stories. Check our story saved with the name ‘BreakAway Quiz’. Go to www.instagram.com/bbbcycling/ and win!
RACE
The combination of helmet and sport glasses, which is used in the pro peloton by the pro-riders of Wanty- Gobert Cycling Team. This helmet provides perfect air flow and safety due to its HaloGuard construction. While the Commander glasses provide a perfect fit for everyone with its unique three step temple adjustment system.
MTB
The Ore helmet is a real high-end mountain bike helmet, which provide extra protection at the side of your head. Its visor protects you against low- hanging branches and sunlight during mountain biking. The combination with the Commander is ideal for all your cycling adventures. Glasses available with three different types of lenses or in a PH- version.
URBAN
The Indra is an award winning e-bike helmet with a stylish design. And we improved this brand new version with a faceshield, ideal to protect you against all things mother earth throws your way. It can absorb 40% more energy than a regular bike helmet. Perfect companion for city traffic.