pedalnorth https://pedalnorth.com The best independent cycling website Mon, 30 Mar 2026 13:48:01 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://pedalnorth.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/cropped-Pedal-North-600-pixel-32x32.jpg pedalnorth https://pedalnorth.com 32 32 Cycling in Greece – History in every pedal stroke https://pedalnorth.com/cycling-in-greece-history-in-every-pedal-stroke/ Mon, 30 Mar 2026 13:38:56 +0000 https://pedalnorth.com/?p=48653

Cycling in Greece – History in every pedal stroke

Introducing the 2026 UCI ΔΕΗ Tour of Hellas

In terms of the sporting world, Greece needs no introduction – after all, they gave us the Olympics. Remember, that unrivalled gathering of athletes that brought us an epic road race in Paris in 2024, and which subsequently gave a new and more exciting format to the final stage of the Tour de France. However, Greece isn’t just historically influential in global sport; it also hosts an epic annual UCI stage race – the ΔΕΗ Tour of Hellas – which in May 2026 will be leading some of the world’s top cycling teams and riders around the unique landscapes and unparalleled history and culture of this foundational cradle of Western civilization.

Yes, Greece is a place where sports and culture have woven a tapestry of excellence for thousands of years, and which ought to be on the bucket list of every cycling fan and cycling tourist. The 2026 ΔΕΗ Tour of Hellas is your opportunity to take some of the world’s finest scenes of ancient history, as the riders sweep through timeless landscapes in pursuit of their own epic palmares.

Why Tour of the Hellas

If you haven’t heard of the ΔΕΗ Tour of Hellas, then you need a brief guide and focus on the history of Greece – for Hellas in simple terms is the native terms for Greece. It was originally used to refer to all lands inhabited by the Hellenes (Greeks) – those people descended from the mythological figure Hellenas. The ΔΕΗ Tour of Hellas is your opportunity to join us here and to explore a wealth of Greek history and culture, over 5 days of action and some of world’s best cycle racing, between 6th and 10th May 2026.

No other global cycling event takes in surroundings with such a wealth of historical sights, as the best cyclists in the pro peloton race between stages such as Karpenissi to Larissa, the capital and largest city of the Thessaly region in Greece and known as the coffee capital of Greece. We all know that coffee and cycling go together like Greece and history, and so we’d love to share our cafe culture with you, in Larissa at the end of stage 2!

Larissa is a place which gave us Achilles and Hippocrates – the father of medicine – and which on the 7th May, 2026 will give us the opening sprint finish to our epic cycle race, as the peloton climb the Pindus Mountains before dropping onto the lush green plains of mainland Greece, surrounded by historical sights and scenes at every twist and turn in the road.

This opening stage of the 2026 ΔΕΗ Tour of Hellas is a cycling tourism dream too, and route that many will want to return to and ride themselves. And yet, this is simply the opener of a world class UCI cycling stage race, filled with some of the most beautiful cycling landscapes in Europe, as the riders challenge themselves over 5 epic days of world-class racing, towards Athens.

Hellas Tour history

As well as having a greater wealth of history than any other western civilisation – being permanently fixed at the top of the history Premier League, to coin a sporting phrase – the history of this constantly developing UCI stage race is inspiring. It began life in 1968, inspired by leading world cycling events elsewhere, and was titled as being the ‘Tour of Ancient Monuments’, beginning in Athens and taking riders – as it does today – on a literal tour of the cultural heritage of the country.

It became a part of the UCI Europe Tour event in 2005, elevating its status, and a hiatus between 2012 and 2022, the Tour was started up once more, in 2022 under its current format, as a UCI 2:1 race, the ‘ΔΕΗ Tour of Hellas’, drawing on its unrivalled history and landscapes to attract the top teams in Europe and elsewhere.

Cycling sport in Greece and cycle tourism

For a mainland European nation, Greece is more accessible than many people think, and it’s cycling tourism potential is vast. It has the infrastructure, the roads, the world-leading experience of hosting tourists from across the globe, and some of the most iconic historic monuments in the world, such as the Parthenon, on Athens’ Acropolis, and temples elsewhere such as the first ancient theatre of Larissa, constructed at the beginning of the 3rd century BC, and which will be a feature at the end of stage 2 on the 2026 ΔΕΗ Tour of Hellas.

Yes, with its unrivalled cultural heritage and history, alongside being a top European destination for tourism, Greece is waiting to welcome cycle tourists, before, during and after the racing in early May. You can ride on the same roads as the world’s top teams and take in the sights and hospitality of Hellas and the Hellenes people.

Enjoy a festival of cycling and culture at the ΔΕΗ Tour of Hellas

Ιt’s always good to have something special to plan for and to look forward to. Travelling and exploring go hand in hand with cycling, and the ΔΕΗ Tour of Hellas aims to promote all that Greece has to offer as a destination for everyone.

During the ΔΕΗ Tour of Hellas in May 2026, they will be creating events in the cities that will be hosting the stages, introducing and promoting the sport of cycling among the communities and creating a cycling legacy. Furthermore, several key activities will take place before, after and during the race to promote the values of the International ΔΕΗ Tour of Hellas, the wider and inclusive culture of cycling, and the same spirit of fair play that the Greek forefathers gave to the world through the Olympic Games.

Accept an invitation to Hellas cycling in 2026

Ancient Greece and Athens gave the world the meaning of democracy, while also fostering strong communities (polis) through shared culture, language, and a shared purpose. And, in doing so, Hellas created a lasting and timeless legacy of collective action and fraternity that has shaped the spirit of belonging around the world.

The people at the Hellas Tour would like to welcome you to join us and the international cycling community in May 2026 for the UCI ΔΕΗ Tour of Hellas, and let them share the history, culture, hospitality and this world-class cycling event with you! And, who knows – you may want to come back afterwards for a ride through world history!

Click the link below to read more about this excting and special UCI stage race, and maybe take yourself on a ride through history at the same time!

Visit the Tour of Hellas website

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]]> GripGrab spring warmth cycling clothing for women https://pedalnorth.com/gripgrab-spring-warmth-cycling-clothing-for-women/ Fri, 27 Mar 2026 10:46:34 +0000 https://pedalnorth.com/?p=48612

GripGrab Winter Testing Review

Early Season Performance in Nordic Conditions

by Kristi Kuldkepp, Women’s Cycling Editor

Early season training in Northern Europe is always a challenge. Cold temperatures, wind, and constantly changing conditions demand cycling gear that is not only comfortable, but reliable over long hours on the bike.Too often brands forget this, working simply towards aero products, whilst not appreciating that comfort and movement equals performance.

Over the past weeks, I’ve been testing several pieces from the GripGrab PACR collection in real training conditions in Estonia – temperatures around +2 to +8°C, strong winds and typical early spring variability. Yes, cold for early spring, but ideal for testing women’s cycling clothing! The focus of this review is on functionality, performance and comfort during structured training (10–14 hours per week), rather than just first impressions. For me, as a semi-pro racer, clothing has first to perform, and that means that it has to be functional – style is an added benefit.
________________________________________

Tested Equipment

• Women’s PACR Long Sleeve Jersey
• Women’s PACR Thermal Long Sleeve Jersey
• Women’s PACR Insulated Midlayer Vest
• Women’s PACR Thermal Bib Shorts
• Waterproof Knitted Winter Gloves
• Ride Thermal Leg Warmers
________________________________________

Images by Diane Unt Photography

First Impression – Clean Design, Functional Fit

GripGrab follows a very clean and minimal design approach, but what stands out more is the fit. All pieces feel purpose-built for riding, with no unnecessary bulk or distractions. They use a body mapping process, meaning that the fit is performance-oriented but not overly aggressive, which makes it suitable for long endurance sessions without compromising comfort.

How did I find it: overall comfortable, and yes, it did have that necessary movement, whilst being quite simply a nice product to wear. Ultimately, if it’s comfortable and functional, then I feel better and I’ll perform better. Do GripGrab achieve this – yes, I think that they do.

The quality is good, with excellent cut and fabrics, and the pockets are strong and easy to reach, with a good quality zip on the security pocket. Small points matter with cycling kit, far more than loud aesthetics.
________________________________________

Performance in Cold Conditions: Layering System – What Works

GripGrab produce technical fabrics and don’t over-complicate things. Their combination of:

• PACR Thermal Long Sleeve Jersey
• Insulated Midlayer Vest
• Thermal Bib Shorts + Leg Warmers

This proved to be a very effective setup in temperatures between +2 and +8°C. Ultimately, it kept me warm and I felt comfortable. Ultimately, that’s what we want to achieve. It’s unfussy and uncomplicated kit, that allows me the freedom to move on the bike and to relax in the cold temperatures of early spring. The leg warmers stayed firmly fitted and formed a “second-skin” feeling, which is necessary. They didn’t sag and they were comfortable at the upper hem, tucked neatly under the shorts. They were warm without being too warm, and had the right level of moisture beading for light rain. They have superb stretch, due to the quality of the material, which is always a bonus.

Layering and leg warmers are important in early season and races. Would I be happy to take these along to a race – absolutely.

The layering works especially well because:

• the vest adds core warmth without overheating
• the jersey regulates temperature effectively during changing intensity
• the system adapts easily as conditions change during the ride

This is particularly important during longer Zone 2 sessions where body temperature fluctuates over time. Maintaining layers when training in early season can be tricky. Clothes have to work and be comfortable – these are.
________________________________________

On the Bike – Comfort and Stability

During longer rides (2–4 hours), the key factors for me were:

• Stability of the fit – no shifting or adjustment needed
• Breathability – no excessive overheating even during harder efforts
• Freedom of movement – especially noticeable in the upper body

I guess that this is due to the work carried out GripGrab to develop and use the right fabrics. They work closely with world teams such as UNO X, and that feeds down into these jerseys and shorts.

The PACR Thermal Bib Shorts combined with leg warmers provided a surprisingly versatile setup. They offer enough warmth for cold starts, while still feeling lighter and more flexible than full winter tights. Best of all, the compression and cut means that they stay firm and stable when I ride – like a second skin, allowing me to simply focus on performance.
________________________________________

Gloves – Critical in Nordic Conditions

Gloves are often an overlooked but critical element of our cycling kit. GripGrab made their name with gloves, and they still stand out today. The Waterproof Knitted Winter Gloves stood out for me during these tests, as one of the most important pieces of kit in these conditions.

In temperatures close to freezing:

• hands stayed warm without overheating
• grip remained secure in both dry and damp conditions
• no loss of control or dexterity during braking and shifting

For Nordic riders, this is a key detail that can make or break a ride. The gloves fitted comfortably, had the necessary stretch and feel to them; and I was able to use my devices screens with them on – always a bonus. Gloves should never be a secondary thought, and these from GribGrab are a good option for early spring. They feel quality and are tough, and should last a long time.
________________________________________

Breathability vs Protection

One of the most important aspects of early season gear is balancing insulation with breathability.
GripGrab manages this well:

• the fabrics protect against wind and cold
• but still allow moisture to escape during effort

This reduces the “overheating → cooling down → getting cold again” cycle, which is common in spring riding. The kit is stylishly simple, functional and offers that protection from the elements without sacrificing breathability.
________________________________________

Who This Setup Is For

This kit is especially well suited for riders who:

• train consistently in cold or variable conditions
• prioritize functionality over aesthetics
• need reliable gear for long endurance rides

It’s priced in the right area to make it accessible for most riders, and will give you a comfortable ride – and ultimately, that is always a key focus. GripGrab design and produce cycling clothing and accessories that work. The kit is also stylish, in a cool and modern way, which I like. It’s not loud or garish – it simply works on the bike and fits my purpose, whilst adding that modern styling. Fundamentally though, it allows me to train in early spring, with those cold winds, and it functions on long rides in zone 2.
________________________________________

Conclusion

GripGrab may not position itself as the most visible premium brand, but it delivers where it matters most: performance, reliability and functionality in real training conditions.

And for a rider, that’s exactly what counts. I’ve enjoyed testing their latest kit, and it does actually work. They’re a brand that doesn’t go for unnecessary headlines. Instead they focus on function and fit, which is what all cyclists want.

It’s time to ride!

Kristi 🙂

It’s time to ride!

with GripGrab

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]]> TIME Scylon – the most comfortable high-performance road bike in the world https://pedalnorth.com/time-scylon-the-most-comfortable-high-performance-road-bike-in-the-world/ Tue, 17 Mar 2026 11:30:00 +0000 https://pedalnorth.com/?p=48550

Breaking the Myth

Why my race bike is also my most comfortable bike

by Nadezhda Pavlova, Editor in Chief

Former international and world-class triathlete, Nadezhda Pavlova knows about performance bikes. After all, she is also a UCI AG rainbow jersey winner in the Gran Fondo TT arena. Riding the TIME Scylon for nearly a year now, it’s been a revelation in how it blends performance with comfort. 

For a long time, I believed the same thing most riders do: race bikes are fast, aggressive… and uncomfortable. Yes, they’re perfect for short races, but not for long mountain days or gran Fondo days out in the mountains. Days on the bike that I love to ride and challenge myself on. That changed when I started riding my Scylon frame. I hadn’t expected it to be exactly as it was – I hadn’t ridden a TIME before, so it was all new experiences for me, on every ride and on every climb.

After more than 6,000 kilometers on the same bike — across numerous alpine passes in Switzerland France and Italy; on rough roads, and long endurance rides, I’m thankfully able to say this with all honesty and a sense of personal delight: performance and comfort don’t have to be opposites. Trust me, riding up the Tourmalet isn’t something that you want to experience on a uncomfortable bike! Speed may be your friend – but comfort is paramount to performance!

TIME know this, which is why they spend so much time – pardon the pun – researching and engineering their unrivalled carbon bike frames. Yes, deep in the heart of Europe, this iconic brand have been busy, innovating with and creating unique frames that remain strong and light and responsive. Bike frames that allow comfort and performance in equal measure – but with unrivaled quality.


Feeling ‘at one’ with your bike

Ultimately, for me personally, I wanted a bike that could handle everything I do: the long climbs, fast descents, extensive travel, content creation, and yes, some racing. From the first rides, what surprised me most about the new Scylon wasn’t the speed, but the ride feel. The bike felt stable and precise, yet smooth over imperfect asphalt. It moved with me and allowed me to ride it, rather than the bike dictating. After five or six hours in the saddle, I wasn’t fighting the bike — I still felt in control and confident. That’s when the “race bikes are uncomfortable” myth started to fall apart for me.

A big part of that feeling comes from how TIME build their frames. Instead of traditional carbon layups, they uses a Resin Transfer Molding (RTM) process. In simple terms, this means that their specially woven carbon fibre socks are formed into a frame, then placed into a mold, heated to phenomenal temperatures and resin is injected under pressure, creating very consistent layers with fewer air gaps. The result isn’t just a lighter frame — it’s a more predictable one, and a lighter and stronger frameset. You feel it on the road as a balanced mix of stiffness and vibration control. On long climbs, the bike responds immediately when you push. On rough descents, it stays calm and planted instead of nervous or harsh. And, in the alps, there are lots of rough descents!

Yes, after 6,000 km, this difference becomes even clearer. The frame still feels as stiff and precise as it did on day one. No strange noises, no loss of confidence, no “tired” feeling in the structure. I’ve taken it on mountain passes like Tourmalet and Furka, flown with it multiple times, packed it into bike box, and ridden it in very different climates. That durability gives a special kind of freedom: you stop worrying about the bike and start focusing on the ride.

The best carbon bike frame in the world… I think so!

And so, the key thing is this: what I’ve learned over this season is that comfort isn’t about soft geometry or relaxed performance. It’s about how the frame manages the multitude of forces and impact factors that we throw at it. How it transfers power without beating you up. A truly good race bike doesn’t punish you; instead, it supports you, and that’s exactly what I feel on my Scylon.

So yes, it’s fast. Yes, it’s built for performance. But it’s also the bike I trust for six-hour days, long training blocks, and technical descents. For me, that’s the real definition of a modern race bike: not just something that wins sprints, but something that makes you want to keep riding longer and further. A bike that encourages you to explore your limits, and which matches the criteria that they design engineers looked to achieve when they created the new Scylon model, using techniques more at home in areospace or the motor industry. TIME like to be different though, and their Scylon certainly is. It responds to you and it rides in comfort, allowing you to focus on the ride.

Breaking the myth wasn’t something I planned. It just happened, one mountain pass and one long ride at a time — on a bike that proved that speed and comfort can live in the same frame. A frame that now feels a part of me on those testing alpine climbs, and which  will remain as my riding companion – long into the future!

Read more by Nadezhda

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]]> Time Scylon – a bike built for truth https://pedalnorth.com/time-scylon-a-bike-built-for-truth/ Sat, 14 Mar 2026 17:41:25 +0000 https://pedalnorth.com/?p=48514

The TIME Scylon

A High-Performance Carbon Road Bike Built for Truth

Nadezhda Pavlova, Editor in Chief

At heart I’m still an athlete. Whilst I tend to travel and ride mainly for leisure and experiences these days, I still train and I still enter selected events. The right kit is important to me, and that starts with the right bike. I still accept that there’s no hiding place when training – especially on the bike. It’s a battle both physically and mentally, and you need the support that the right bike brings to the game.

Riding the TIME Scylon makes you aware of that truth. This is a precision-engineered carbon road bike. Direct. Honest. Responsive. It doesn’t hide fatigue. It doesn’t soften laziness. When you are strong, it feels alive — sharp, fast, almost impatient. When you are not, it reminds you. It reflects exactly what you bring to it. There is something philosophical in that. The bike doesn’t judge. It simply responds to and amplifies your effort. On powerful days, climbs unfold with rhythm and control. The road feels smooth. The gradient becomes a challenge instead of a threat.

On harder days, when doubt creeps in, every acceleration feels louder. Every change in gradient feels personal. The difference isn’t the bike – it’s the rider. It’s about pressing pause and refocusing, and working in unison with mind, body and bike. It’s about putting in the hidden efforts and keeping your head down and spirits up.

Consistency Over Peak Power

Cycling culture celebrates peak power numbers and race results

However, nobody celebrates the 47th steady endurance ride of the season. Nobody applauds the disciplined recovery spin. Nobody tracks how many times you chose sleep over scrolling, water over wine, long-term growth over short-term comfort. What is where progress lives. Showing up when no one is watching. For me, my Scylon becomes part of that process — not just a machine, but my companion in disciplined training. The hum of high-speed carbon wheels. The stability on technical descents. The precision handling when fatigue sets in. It doesn’t promise comfort. It rewards commitment. It becomes so much a part of me that we talk and we share each moment.

More Than Watts – What Performance Really Means

In racing, the numbers matter. Performance metrics matter. Results are recorded and rankings are published. But elite cycling performance is built long before race day; built on those early morning rides, on those solo climbs, in sessions that felt average but were necessary, and in the decision to try again after a disappointing day. More than watts, cycling builds an identity, and it shows who you are when training is hard. who you are when you ride alone, who you are when improvement feels slow.

Fitness rises and falls across seasons and progress is often haphazard, not linear. Ultimately, life is not linear – but resilience to it is cumulative. Consistency compounds, and riding — again and again — is what ultimately creates strength. Not just in your legs, but also in the mind and in the rider – in me.

Spring has finally arrived and I can now start to relax the mental aspects of winter training and enjoy the riding again, with the sun beating down on me and the views opening up, as I choose the European passes to ride: the Dolomites, the Alps, and maybe the Pyrenees too. All the performance that has been hard won over winter will begin to pay dividends, and I’ll ride in harmony with my Scylon – that friend that stayed with me over the hard early morning rides of winter.

Italy is planned, as is Switzerland and France, riding with friends and making new ones as we cycle into new adventures together. I have events and races in mid-March and into April – and then the obligatory trip and events in Italy in summer – I’ll be bsy and the training will hopefully pay off. It’s harder for women athletes, as we always have to prove ourselves as such –we are constantly judged, misjudged and taken for granted, based on nothing more than ignorance and aesthetic. And so yes, I want to train hard and I want to constantly prove who I am – an athlete… Nadezhda Pavlova , so try to keep up!

I’m looking forward to the travelling and to the races; and I’m enjoying the regular rides into the hills close to home here in Barcelona. Yes, now is the time to create cycling memories, not watts. Training is over, and now is the time to ride!

Nadezhda is a global brand ambassador for Jelenew Women’s Cycle Clothing, and also for TIME Bicycles and for Bryton Electronics. As an internationally qualified triathlon coach and former world-level triathlete, she can also be contacted online training plans, to help you on your own training journey. 

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]]> Is Ekoi the listening brand in world cycling https://pedalnorth.com/is-ekoi-the-listening-brand-in-world-cycling/ Sat, 14 Mar 2026 10:26:02 +0000 https://pedalnorth.com/?p=48360

Is Ekoi the listening brand in global cycling?

Jean-Christophe: Bucking the trend in the cycling industry since 2008

Before we start to talk about Ekoi, let’s focus on the cycling industry per se. It’s broken and a minor repair will no longer fix the issue. You can pour as much sealant into the punctures as you like – but, unless you start listening to the consumer… really listening, then you are not going to resolve the issues that are facing the industry. A simple tyre change also won’t help. Instead, pressing pause and engaging with the consumer will possibly begin in educating the industry on where the problems lie – and at heart, they’re fundamentally simple. Stop, look, listen, engage and then deliver.

However, whilst all of this has been going on – and indeed, long before it all started – there has been a company based in the south of France, quietly changing the way in which they (and indeed cycling) operates in that important space between consumer, pro cycling and brand. Yes, Ekoi, started by the passionate French cyclist and businessman, Jean Christophe in 2001, has been a burning beacon of hope for the cycling industry, and for kit-hungry cyclists around the world looking for comfort, performance, quality, style and price-point all operating in perfect harmony. Unfortunately, the coordination of those 5 simple elements have been as rare as a rocking horse winning the Prix de d’Arc de Triomphe. Unless of course, you look deeply at Ekoi and begin to break down how Jean Christophe has been thinking and operating his brand for nearly 20 years – which is when he introduced their revolutionary B2C model, in 2008, and began to change the cycle clothing and accessories industry forever, in a visionary and positive way.

Feeding the cycling child within us all

At heart, we are all that small child still inside of us – and Jean Christophe understands this as a cyclist himself. Do you remember, walking to school and stopping by the bike shop window to look at that blue Peugeot, road bike in the window and dreaming of it for Christmas. We still do this today, if we can admit to it – we frequently buy with our eyes. We watch the pro peloton and dream of our own cycling glory as choose our kit: the same helmets, the same sunglasses, jerseys and cycling shoes – and, if possible, the same bikes. We want to ride in groups with our friends, and to form our own team and pelotons.

What stops us in our tracks however is the price point; and why – well, because so many elements are now involved in the process of getting that simple cycling jersey to you. And they are all adding their own slice of the cake – meaning that the price of that jersey is usually beyond reach. Yes, the average cyclist still dreams and wants to wear a great jersey, of the type worn by the leading riders; but they also have to feed their families, and the dog and the cat – and the kids need those new training shoes for school…. and the list of impact factors goes on, whilst the main protagonists within the cycling industry continue to try to sell their over-priced offerings to 5% of the top egos on 2-wheels! Then, when their limiting strategy fails to deliver results, they wonder where it all went wrong. Conversely, Ekoi have always thought differently – which is why they resonate with me and with team here at Pedalnorth.

Delivering with passion creates proactivity

It was in 2008 that Jean Christophe developed and moved the young Ekoi brand forward, with his visionary direct to consumer, web business model and product strategy. It was still the infant days of online and in particular, online sales. However, in its first year of operation it achieved a 50K Euro turnover, with cycling sunglasses being the predominant product at that time. By cutting out the largely unnecessary and oft irrelevant links of distributors, outside marketing, and retail margins, Ekoi were able to design, make, market and sell the products themselves; and through their direct engagement strategy, they could also understand exactly what the cyclist was looking for – rapidly converting this into new product development which met the needs of the kit hungry cycling consumer.

Let’s not forget two critical aspects of those 5 key elements we mentioned earlier: style and price point. As a French company, Ekoi has style within its DNA. It’s as French as red wine and cheese. Personally, wherever I’m travelling to, a Bordeaux is always first choice of wine for me with dinner – nobody does style like the French. Then, price point; as mentioned, Jean Christophe had by 2008 been operating for 7 years and had learnt a lot about the heavy baggage that frequently attaches itself to the cycling industry. And so, he cut it away and developed Ekoi.com as the portal where his infant brand could grow alongside the cycling consumer, producing the products that they actually wanted, at the right price and at the right time. As cycling grew globally, so did Ekoi; by engaging closely with clubs and cyclists and designing and delivering the right products – products that consumers were directly asking them for.

Helmets came on board, then jerseys, bibs and socks, and the cycling clubs of France and elsewhere ate it all up, knowing the performance and quality of the product as they rode against the weather, seeing the ‘Côte blanc des feuilles’ and knowing that their reasonably priced Ekoi cycling jersey would weather the coming storm – and it has, quite literally!

With many in the world tour pro peloton now clothed in Ekoi products – sunglasses, helmets, clothing, cycling shoes – this visionary French brand continues to innovate and excel as they seek new areas and new ways to create the products being asked for by the growing global cycling community. And at their heart, working under the same principles that Jean Christophe laid down, are engineers, artisans, designers, former and current world-leading riders, all working together to create cycling dreams for everyone who feels inspired to ride a bike! Ekoi translated should mean ‘passion’, as it is this that flows outwardly from their base on the Cote D’Azur, and into the cycling clubs and cafes across Europe and beyond – and which has done since those early online days of September 2008, when their story began to emerge within the e-commerce space, way ahead of its time.

Re-inventing the B2C model

Having been active within the grassroots cycling community from their beginnings, Ekoi still operates closely on engagement. It’s that seemingly simple, but often difficult to get right, principle of observation and analysis. If done correctly, it should determine your strategy; and for Ekoi and Jean Christophe, it led in 2010 to a more defined and wholly web-focused approach, where Ekoi would be the B in the B2C model; designing, creating and delivering products based on the continual feedback from consumers, and by that all-important engagement with cyclists, clubs and a growing VIP client list. Aggressive pricing was based around them cutting away unnecessary retail margins, and it supported realistic club discounts and led to product expansion that was based solely on customer demand – a demand that was arrived at through two-way communication, and not meaningless marketing forums.

Add to this, the advent of Ekoi on the World Tour scene, where sunglasses were the first product taken on board on tested by the world’s best cyclists. Those dreaming club riders could now share the same products – as I did myself – as Ekoi catered for every cyclist in the pyramid of hierarchy, not simply the top 5% at the elite end. However, and it is a very big however, so take a breath please…

Ekoi products are engineered and designed in France, and that process involves input and testing by many of the best riders in the world; so that you can be sure when you pull on a Marion Rousse jersey by Ekoi, that Marion would wear it herself – because she does, and she helped to design the full range. No, Ekoi isn’t a lower level of expectation and quality; it’s quite the opposite – it’s the very best in terms of those key elements: comfort, performance, quality, style, all at the right price point.

Innovation & excellence for a brighter future

Talking with Jean Christophe – and Céline Vandenbroucke, their lead on PR, press, pro cycling and partnerships – they tell me about recent developments, alongside plans for the future. In 2025, Ekoi released their own cycling shoe and pedal development – the pW8 – which increases the shoe platform and power transfer opportunities, by re-inventing the contact area between shoe and pedal. Tested by members of the pro peloton, it delivers the performance gains and allows the foot to remain stable in rotation.

They’ve also been hard at work investing in engineering within French manufacturing, talking with cyclists about carbon wheels that were previously out of reach of the average cyclist. These locally assembled high-performance carbon wheels are a result of countless hours of research and testing, drawing on the expertise that already lay within French cycle wheel manufacturing – and included close liaison with their current and former pro peloton riders. In-house testing is important to Jean Christophe, as is having the position as the leading French brand within cycling – which they now are and which has been hard earned.

In-house testing listens and learns and adapts as the product develops, and it ensures that changes match needs; that the end-product is world-class, whilst remaining an affordable purchase for the majority, and not simply the minority.

Products are looked at, researched and developed alongside their support for some of the world’s best cycling teams. Currently, Ekoi equip and work with: Lotto-Intermarche; Astana; and also, NSN at World Tour level, allowing the brand to continue to call upon the expertise of the best riders in the world, before sharing the results with everyday cyclists as world-leading products.
Getting ahead takes technology & passion in equal measure

Their latest aero road helmet is one of the lightest and most efficient on the market, tried and tested by some of the world’s best riders. The EKOÏ Racing R-AERO helmet is a gamechanger in the aero helmet world because it perfectly combines speed, ventilation, and comfort. Developed with CFD technology, its profile was optimized in a wind tunnel with the clear goal of minimizing aerodynamic drag. An in-depth study in a simulated thermal environment, showed a heat transfer coefficient (ability to shed heat) higher than many ultra-vented helmets designed for climbing. The result: maximum versatility and optimal efficiency, whether in fast races, triathlon, or on mid- and high-mountain rides, even in scorching heat. It’s the helmet that was worn by Ekoi sponsored teams at the 2025 Tour de France, and the R-AERO stands out as the helmet built to win at high speed and at altitude.

Yes, from humble beginnings, Ekoi is a world-leader in so many areas, and yet still focuses on listening, looking and engaging with ordinary cyclists alongside the pro peloton, so that the products they develop meet the actual needs of the cycling community – at every level.

The future’s bright – so wear some Ekoi sunglasses!

With a bright future ahead and even more products in development, Ekoi’s list of collaborations reads like a ‘who’s who’ of world cycling: Fabio Aru, Julian Absalon, Phillipe Gilbert, Marion Rousse, Rudy Von Berg, Nicholas Roche and others. Riders across all forms of cycle sport continue to add to the palmares for this now iconic French brand, sharing the same passion that Jean Christophe used to develop Ekoi into one of the top cycling brands in the world. Innovation and excellence are often talked about in cycling; however, when this is merged with drive, intelligence and freedom of thought, and it is fuelled by passion and a healthy dose of French flair, then it is simply unstoppable.

Ultimately, none of us know what the future holds, but we can help to direct it and to meet the needs of those riding in that direction. Ekoi have been doing this since 2001, and their continued success within the world of cycling is a testament to the people behind the brand and their adherence to being different; to being the best, and in helping and encouraging others to be their best versions, too.

Talking with Celine and Jean Christophe has been exciting and yes, inspiring for me, as we shared our joint passion for cycle sport and for doing things differently – for doing things right! Ekoi won’t add sealant to the puncture that the cycling industry is currently suffering from. No, they’ll literally re-invent the wheel – and I can’t wait to be there when they do!

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]]> Schattwald and the Tannheim Valley gravel ride – in the Austrian Tyrol https://pedalnorth.com/schattwald-and-the-tannheim-valley-gravel-ride-in-the-austrian-tyrol/ Thu, 05 Mar 2026 12:18:48 +0000 https://pedalnorth.com/?p=47789
  • Tobias Arweiler

Schattwald & the Tannheim Valley

Gravel adventure in the Austrian Tyrol

This tough but beautiful ride of 54 km takes you through magnificent scenery in the Austrian Tyrol, exloring the gravel tracks in the Tannheim Valley of the Austrian mountains. The route takes you up past the Haldensee (lake) and climbs the epic Krinnenspitze for amazing mountain views.

Forests and alpine meadows mix with 14% climbs and descents on this Tyrolean gravel route, requiring good fitness and bike skills. Yet, the rewards are well worth the effort, as yu explore the beauty of the Tannheim Valley and alpine scenery.

Above image by Tobias Arwieler on Unsplash 

Route Information

Stats:  54 km  1,675 metres

Refreshments & Where to Stay: The Tanheim Valley has numerous options for accommodation at all price points. Likewise, places to eat are easy to locate and the food choices are excellent.

Character: Tough and steep, with a technical descents. Some bike-hiking might be found on the steeper climbs, but take the climbs as a challenge. The trails are excellent gravel. Do not tackle if your actual fitness and skill level is not up to this. However, if you’re ready for the adventure, it is an epic ride!

Route

The route – albeit seeming reasonable in length, is a tough but rewarding day in the mountains of the Tyrol. Excellent fitness is required, as is the ability to carry out trailside repairs for yourself.

  1. Starting off from Schattwald, the route climbs initially, before dropping you down towards Tannheim.
  2. Haledensee is soon reached, as you skirt this picturesque lake in the mountains.
  3. Then, after 17.9km – at Nesselwangle – a steep series of switchbacks lead you upwards for 4.5 km, before more descending and riding through the trees on excellent tracks that rise and fall randomly.
  4. At 43km you reach the quaint village of Berg, and its wealth of tradiational chalets and farms. The climbing begins once more, as the road takes you into the hills and trees. Tracks wind there way around the valley, before dropping you back onto the valley road at Schattwald where refreshments can be taken if needed, whilst you enjoy the epic views across the valley.

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]]> Cycling Alicante: heat mountains and desert roads https://pedalnorth.com/cycling-alicante-heat-mountains-and-desert-roads/ Mon, 02 Mar 2026 17:54:32 +0000 https://pedalnorth.com/?p=45268

RIDING ALICANTE

Finding my cycling soul

Travelling is a part of the cycling culture – ultimately, it’s what our bike was designed for. That simple journey from A to B, to which we add our own personality. We’re all unique – like bikes.

Yes, we may look the same: two legs, two wheels, arms, handlebars, a saddle and… well, you get the picture. However, it’s what we don’t see that matters – on the inside, of us and on the bike.
I started my competitive sporting life as a snowboarder, not a cyclist. An horrific accident and serious injury put paid to that, though; which is I why I then took up triathlon, competing at age-group world-level successfully, before cycling took a hold of me and opened up that spirit of exploration that is a part of who I am. I love using my bike to challenge myself, yes; but, also to explore the world in which we live and to feel the warm breeze on my face and the excitement that pumps through my veins.

I guess that I’m like my TIME Scylon: I look one way, but when you turn the pedal, a whole new personality emerges, and it’s more fun-loving than you imagined, with a strength and toughness that defies the image – and yes, fast, because ultimately, I’m still an athlete who loves performance. If I’d had a bike made for me, it would have been the Scylon. It’s become a part of me now; part of my cycling soul, and we’re off to explore Alicante together.

Riding Alicante: Heat, Mountains, and Desert Roads

Alicante in Spain is renowned the world over, as a holiday hotspot. However, are you aware how great the road cycling is in this majestic Spanish resort? Probably not, as too often, the focus of cyclists when travelling to Spain is the Islands, or Girona. However, Alicante has everything to offer, including roads that are less filled with other riders, a quieter feeling and sublime views. It’s nestled amongst coastal mountains, with exceptional roads; which is why I took myself on a cycling trip there, recently.

Yes, Alicante is full of surprises. Everyone knows the beaches, of course. Few people, however, expect the wild, open mountains that lie just a short ride inland. Here, away from the coastal crowds, the land feels more like Texas or the rising hills of Africa than Spain — dry terraces, rocky peaks, and a sky that seems endless. As an easily excited cycling tourist, and with my Scylon accompanying me, I set out to test it and to explore the climbs of Tiger Pass, Puerto de Tudons, Puerto del Collao, and Puerto de Benifallim. It turned into one of the most beautiful and most unforgettable rides I’ve ever done. One of those rides that remain unexpected and treasured, at the forefront of our memories for a long time. That causes the blood to flow faster and our bodies to feel lighter, as our eyes open up to the landscape and our heart feeds on the emotions.

I’m unashamedly a spiritual and emotion athlete. Away from cycling, I’m a designer and also a painter, using color to carry forward the images I create. So yes, when I’m cycling, I totally immerse myself in the landscape. For now, though, it’s time to ride, as me and my bike head off into the Alicante mountains, exploring this beautiful corner of mainland Spain. Yes, it’s time to ride!

Route Information

Stats  66.59 km  1,488 metres

• Start/Finish: The ride started from Alcoy heading towards the Puerto de Tudons
• Difficulty: Challenging

Road Surface: Excellent tarmac

Refreshments & Where to Stay

Lots of places along the way

Character

A long but rewarding route, with climbs and mountain views views, and the sun high in the sky. Road surface conditions are superb.

The route combines inland climbs, fast descents, scenic towns, anddeserted roads, too. The sun beats down at time, so wear sun screen and take on board lots of fluids. Whether you’re chasing fitness, a photo-worthy adventure, or pure road cycling pleasure, this ride offers it all.

Route

Puerto de Tudons (1,025 m)

My day started from Alcoy heading towards the Puerto de Tudons. Around 8 km with a 4% average and at a 7-9% maximum steepness – steady, but brutal in the heat. My bottles turn warm within minutes, and every patch of shade feels like a gift. The bike is looking after things though – light and responsive, pushing me to hold a rhythm even when the heat tried to break me. Once I settled into the heat and the climb, it becomes a route to smile on; with the challenge being a positive one, as the Scylon eats up the distance, keeping me comfortable and focused. I have fluids and nutrition and views, and I have a purpose, as the sun beats down on me. I’m renewing my cycling soul, away from the crowds, and the freedom that rushes through my body as the gentle breeze touches my face, reminds me why we ride!

Tiger Pass – Safari Aitana

After this, I it was time to take on Tiger Pass, near Safari Aitana. The landscape here was raw, exposed and bare, with scrubland stretching out like a cycling safari. The roads are well-laid though, as they continually twist upwards under a blazing sun; the kind that makes the tarmac shimmer like a mirage. It felt wild, different, and slightly surreal — not Europe as most people imagine it. Yes, I had taken on enough fluids, and I was not hallucinating! It was a route that needed focus, and set myself – rider and Scylon as one, as the cranks turned and the views opened up. Before too long, it was done, and it was time for another Alicante cycling challenge.

Puerto del Collao (890 m)

This climb was shorter but nastier. The Collao throws itself upwards in ramps of 13–16%, hitting you straight in the face, like walls. The road looks at you and challenges you, as it rises in threatening, jagged steps, but thankfully with some downhill sections on which to relax.

Ultimately though, as I mentioned earlier – I’m an athlete at heart, and have competed across the world. The road and I challenge each other, as I turn the cranks and remain focused and positive – this is my choice and want to see the summit views.

From the summit, the landscape opens wide and I was rewarded, finally. Beneath me were terraced valleys with olive trees and jagged limestone ridges, stretching far into the haze. It all looked magical and timeless – like a movie with a Spanish guitar playing softly and lyrically in the background – and no, once again I am not hallucinating! I’m immersing myself in the cycling experience, as I explore Spain and explore myself and my cycling limits. Spanish. Views and feelings like this, need to be taken slowly and allowed to wash over you; and, after all, I have TIME on my side!

Puerto de Benifallim (1,020 m)

The final challenge for me was Puerto de Benifallim. It’s a short, steadier climb that winds through a pine forest before breaking into rocky open ground above 1,000 m. The altitude brought a whisper of cooler air, but the sun still pressed hard, testing me physically and mentally.

Surviving the Heat

At 40°C, the fountains in the village squares became my salvation. The brutality of the climb was done for a while, and I didn’t just fill my bottles — I soaked myself completely. Yes, jersey, shorts, head, everything.

It was the only way to keep going! Having competed in triathlon all over the world, I know how heat can affect athletes, and this was something that only a fully dipped and watered head can solve! Each time I left a fountain dripping, the cool water evaporating instantly in the dry air, and it felt like a reset button for the next climb – the next challenge.

Descents Like a Bullet

The reward for every ascent, however, were the epic descents to look forward to. The Scylon is designed to be responsive and light, and it came into its own on the descending. I was able to relax and aim the bike, as I moved by tired body around the bike, in harmony with the curving road. Long, sweeping, and fast, cutting turns through a barren landscape, with nothing but the wind in my ears and on my face. The wheels hummed steadily, and the bike felt like a bullet, holding the line and giving me that much-needed confidence in the corners, as the road twisted and turned like a ribbon, loosely strewn across the mountains.

Epic rides of exploration

What makes Alicante special is the contrast. In one ride, you pass through desert scrub, thick pine forests, rocky ridgelines, and timeless stone villages. It feels like riding through an old Western movie set — only, with your bike as the horse, carrying you across the landscape. No, it’s not the Alps nor the Pyrenees. It’s harsher, hotter, and maybe even more rewarding, emotionally.

Alicante is a place where survival, speed, and scenery collide, and it leaves you with memories that burn long after the ride is done. For me, it was special and it tested me and the bike. Yes, Alicante is a place for TIME travellers! It’s a place that should be on every cyclist’s bucket list, as you explore the variety and exceptional terrain that Spain has to offer for cycling. Too often, people head for the obvious Spanish locations, when you can pause time and find one the best places for cycling in Spain, away from the crowds.

I love my bike – it’s like me. TIME like to be different; to show their uniqueness. They look for excellence in everything – like me. Ultimately, we like to explore our limits – because the resultant feeling is unequalled, and it reminds us of one very important thing – that we’re alive!

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]]> Ladies Cycling Blog – and The Development of ladies Cycling https://pedalnorth.com/ladies-cycling-blog-and-the-development-of-ladies-cycling/ Sun, 22 Feb 2026 14:42:11 +0000 https://pedalnorth.com/?page_id=38323

The Growth & Development of Women’s Cycling

To the best of our knowledge, the population of most countries is a 50:50 split; and yet, when you go into most bike shops, you see one or two rails for women… if you are lucky, and endless rails of men’s clothing. In terms of the pro peloton, many women’s teams still struggle with financing and support; and worse still, talented women cyclists are abused, insulted and sexually attacked online, simply because they choose to look stylish, fit and good on a bike. Yes, how on earth can a woman who also happens to beaesthetically beautiful – as all people are in some way – ride up the Tourmalet 2 days running and still smile – that’s despite the fact that the female  athlete in this case was a world-class triathlete in her sporting career. Unfortunately though, she chose to look, well… feminine and stylish. By all accounts this attracts unnecessary and sexist comments from too many men online, who quite frankly need to check the mirror first of all… and possibly their search history. Male arrogance and sexism isn’t a cycling skill, I’m afraid; and nor will  wives and partners thank you for bullying women athletes online, simply for looking good.

Here at Pedalnorth, we’ve also witness so-called respected members of the cycling industry make sexist remarks about women athletes, simply because they chose to wear pink cycling shorts on a climb in Spain. The woman concerned was depicted simply riding up an alpine pass and concentrating on the climb. It was summer and the temperatures in the valley were hot – hence the shorts. After all, women deserve to tan their legs whilst they cycle, don’t they?

Now please, with the greatest of respect – actually, with no respect to such comments – how can this sort of behaviour and failure to recognise and support women as athletes still be acceptable in 2026? It simply shouldn’t be acceptable, and men now need to wake up and smell the coffee, and then realise that if you want your partner to look good when you go to dinner, to the cinema, to the theatre or elsewhere, they reserve the right to also look good when cycling.

Leading the way to a feminine future

Let’s cut to the chase and accept that cycling has been unbalanced for far too long; and yes, that’s a polite way of saying that cycling has been sexist in too many areas, and that women in cycling deserve more acceptance for who they are – women. It’s only in recent years that women’s bikes had their own place within many many world-leading brands. Ladies, or women’s cycling clubs are one of the fastest developing areas within the global cycle industry. Failing to recognise the growth and potential of women’s cycling development is a failure to place your own cycling brand in the best position to maximise growth in the changing global cycling community. ‘Pink it and shrink it’ is no longer acceptable. Yes, women are finally a central part of the global cycling scene, and women’s cycling blogs are taking a hold, as online portals for the very best information for women in cycling.

As a website, we’ve  always operated on the premise that the best and hardest working writers will always get the most support and recognition. We’ve constantly championed and promoted women’s cycling blogs, and tried to lead the way in bringing women’s cycling products to the fore, too. Ultimately, cycling is a sport for everyone, and yet it’s only in recent years that any form of equality has been achieved – and there’s still a long way to go.

Here’s a few key stats for around cycling growth for women:

Key Growth Statistics & Participation
  • Cycling is the sixth most popular sport for women in England, growing at over 9% in the last five years.
  • Women’s cycling participation has increased by nearly 20% since 2019.
  • In the UK, female race license holders increased by 72%.
  • Female membership in Cycling UK grew from 22% to 25% between 2022 and 2025.
  • Women made up 23% of new Zwift subscribers in 2025, up from 18% in 2022.

TV has a role to play, as the more women’s races that are televised and publicised, the greater the increase of women cyclists will be:

  • 69% of women surveyed said watching the Tour de France Femmes inspired them to ride.
  • The average Women’s World Tour team budget has doubled since 2022 to approximately €4.67 million.
  • Tour de France Femmes social media followers reached 2.6 million in 2024, with a 61% rise in video content engagement.

Women can be stylish when cycling… it’s their right

The demand for women’s community focused cycle events is high, with events like Limitlass and La Femme both selling out rapidly. Women’s cycling requires a different approach in so many ways.

It’s not simply that our women’s cycling jerseys and bib shorts need to be designed and cut differently; or that our cycling shoes need to be designed for women’s feet, taking account for our different build and physiology. It’s not simply that we want and yes need bikes that are designed and built for us. What is is, is the simple fact that women have fought hard for recognition within society; at work, at leisure, within families, and within sport generally. Women in cycling simply want a feminine future that is on a a par with the attention given to men’s cycling.

Did you know that it wasn’t until the year 2000 that women had their first ever world cyclocross champion. Yes, only 26 years ago, despite the  history and longevity of the cyclocross discipline. It was Hanka Kupfernagel of Germany who was the first women’s elite cyclocross world champion, winning that inaugural UCI Cyclo-cross World Championship in 2000, held in Sint-Michielsgestel, Netherlands.

In terms of road cycling, it was 1958 and Reims, France, that marked the official introduction of the women’s road race to the UCI championship program – being won by Elsy Jacobs from Luxembourg. The context of this becomes apparent when you consider that the men had a world championship race in 1927 at the Nürburgring in Germany, where Alfredo Binda won.

Strictly female cycling information

Considering all of this, alongside the regular insults thrown at women wearing lycra cycling clothing, it’s time for a change. It’s time for men to accept that women can and do ride bikes. It’s time to accept that women have disposable incomes and want to purchase cycle clothing and bikes designed for them. It’s time for men to realise that the women being insulted , abused, attacked for looking feminine is somebodies daughter, mother, partner – a human being, and deserve respect, not insults. Women who choose to be mothers, deserve respect and decency from the cycling industry; not to be thrown aside as riders, writers, creators, simply because they no longer fit the mold.

Men need challenging by men when they insult or attack women cyclists, and those men with their own pregnant looking builds  should realise that it’s not that hard to beat them up a hill on a bike, and that simply fitting a lighter cassette won’t help their own performance. If only they took as much care about themselves, as they do attacking real women athletes, whose only crime is riding, exercising and taking care of themselves.

Ladies, or women’s cycling, whichever way you refer it, is still the fastest growth area within the global cycling community. It’s an area of cycling where  performance, style and quality always ride in perfect harmony; and yet is an area where true recognition is still in waiting. For us here at Pedalnorth, led by Nadezhda Pavlova and with talented athletes and writers such as Diane Vilarem, Fatima Berton, Kristi Kuldkepp and Teodora Sabina, this dynamic area of the Pedalnorth website continues to lead the way in showcasing the uniqueness and the lifestyle within women’s cycling, by bringing you the very best women’s cycling blogs in the world – on the world’s best cycling lifestyle and culture website!

Today is the time to join the women’s cycling revolution, and to continue to challenge this long  unequal status quo. Women cyclists are already here and we’re riding fast, we’re looking stylish and leading the way across the vast and hopefully growing inclusivity within the varied and interesting global cycling community!

Women’s Cycling Blogs

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]]> 2026 Spring-Summer Cycle Clothing Collection from ALÉ https://pedalnorth.com/2026-spring-summer-cycle-clothing-collection-from-ale/ Wed, 28 Jan 2026 14:18:27 +0000 https://pedalnorth.com/?p=48025

New ALÉ Spring-Summer 2026 Collection

A collection that blends technological innovation, cutting-edge materials and contemporary design, created to experience cycling with freedom, comfort and personal style.

As the cycling seasons begins once more, and we start to look ahead to warmer spring days and short sleeved jerseys, Italian brand Alé has unveiled its new Spring–Summer 2026 cycling apparel collection. This latest range from their world-leading design team, celebrates the warm season with a distinctive balance of technical performance, functionality and modern style. It’s a range for the complete cyclist, bringing the Alé experience to all riders, from professionals to passionate enthusiasts.

Alé’s DNA is rooted in the fusion of functionality, design and textile engineering. Each garment supports the cyclist on a journey that is both physical and emotional, where comfort, innovation and aesthetics coexist in perfect harmony. Clean lines and carefully engineered details, and meticulously selected fabrics define a collection designed for those who experience cycling as a personal and authentic expression.

SS26 Collection – inspirational themes

The Spring–Summer 2026 collection is built around several creative universes and themes:

• Pure Essentialism – Clean, no-frills garments designed for riders who want only what truly matters, with no compromises.

• Cosmic Horizons – Celestial colour palettes and space-inspired textures turn every ride into a visual experience, where each shade evokes a journey toward new sensations.

• Energy & Dynamism – Vibrant tones and bold designs that convey speed, adrenaline and freedom, expressing the most instinctive and passionate side of cycling.

• Urban Style – Metropolitan vibes that merge performance and contemporary aesthetics, created for cyclists who live the city with a sporty, distinctive attitude.

• Reinterpreted Heritage – A tribute to cycling’s history, reimagined through modern fabrics and contemporary cuts, preserving the elegance of tradition without sacrificing functionality.

The five macro clothing collection families for 2026

As always, the Alé SS 2026 collection is structured around five main product lines:

• R-EV1 – The capsule collection representing the pinnacle of Alé innovation: advanced technologies, cutting-edge materials and design developed in the brand’s research center.

• PR.E – Creativity and performance inspired by the professional peloton. Garments designed for riders who want to combine technical excellence, colour, style and originality on every ride.

• PRAGMA – Essential, comfortable and practical. A range of durable, refined pieces where quality and craftsmanship are guaranteed by Alé’s long-standing expertise.

• OFF-ROAD GRAVEL – Designed for gravel and mountain biking, a robust and functional collection engineered to tackle off-road terrain with comfort and protection.

• TRIATHLON – Built for triathlon challenges. Ultra-high-performance materials, advanced aerodynamics and maximum breathability for every leg: swim, bike and run.

Together, these lines form the Alé Spring–Summer 2026 catalogue, a comprehensive offering for every type of cyclist, from elite athletes to leisure riders.

Garment engineering and technical performance

At the heart of the collection lies Alé’s commitment to seamlessly integrating technology, materials and design to deliver high performance in all riding conditions. Highly breathable, lightweight and elastic fabrics are combined with advanced construction techniques aimed at reducing friction and improving aerodynamics, while seams and hems are optimized to follow the body’s natural movement without interfering with pedalling efficiency.

Bib straps are anatomically shaped and crossed to distribute pressure evenly, ergonomic cam-lock zippers ensure ease of use and safety while riding, and reflective details enhance visibility in low-light conditions. Selected fabrics feature textures and microstructures engineered to increase stability and grip on the saddle, while advanced body-mapping technology allows each garment to adapt to different areas of the body, improving fit and comfort on long rides.

Every element of the collection is designed to maximize performance without compromising style, making the garments suitable for professional cyclists, dedicated amateurs and everyday riders alike, on the road or off-road. The combination of innovative materials, technical construction and attention to detail defines a versatile, high-performance and comfortable collection, engineered to support every ride with confidence and freedom.

It’s all ready and waiting for eager, style-conscious cyclists, and will no doubt light up the tarmac and trails this cycling season. We’ll be testing out a few selected items from this extensive tapestry of cycling style, with detailed reviews coming to our website, soon.

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]]> Winter training on the Elite Avanti Smart Trainer https://pedalnorth.com/winter-training-on-the-elite-avanti-smart-trainer/ Wed, 28 Jan 2026 11:37:09 +0000 https://pedalnorth.com/?p=48010

Winter training on the Elite Avanti Smart Trainer

An all-around athlete perspective

by Teodora Sabina

Working in the mountain sports industry, and being a mountain runner and ski instructor, fitness is key. That means even on the worst of days, I have to find some form of training, to maintain my necessary fitness levels. Cycling is great – yes – but in snowy Transylvania it’s not always possible. Thankfully, Elite sent me a solution – their latest Avanti interactive cycle trainer!

The Elite Avanti smart trainer is an advanced interactive indoor cycling trainer designed to help athletes maintain and improve their physical condition during the winter season, when outdoor riding is often limited by cold temperatures, poor weather, and reduced daylight. By bringing the realism of outdoor cycling indoors, Avanti allows consistent, effective, and motivating training sessions regardless of external conditions. For me, physical activity in winter is totally different, since the days spent on the slopes are numerous, so it takes up a lot of my free time that I normally have to train, in summer days, for example. So, after a day spent in the cold, the trainer is the ideal partner to maintain my shape and continue my aerobic training for the following period.

Accuracy & reliability

One of the key strengths of the Elite Avanti is its high level of accuracy and reliability. It features an integrated Optical Torque Sensor (OTS) power meter with an accuracy of ±1%, enabling precise measurement of power output. This accuracy is essential for structured training, as it allows riders to monitor effort, follow training plans based on power zones, and track performance improvements over time. Such precision makes winter workouts purposeful and comparable to outdoor riding data, ensuring continuity in training progression.

The trainer’s direct-drive design contributes significantly to a realistic riding feel. Avanti is capable of simulating gradients of up to approximately 18%, which recreates the sensation of climbing and variable terrain. This realistic resistance helps maintain cycling-specific muscle strength and cardiovascular endurance throughout the winter months, preventing fitness loss and making the transition back to outdoor riding smoother when the season changes. I can hardly feel the difference between climbing on the trainer and real, outdoor steep climbing in Transylvania!
Another important advantage of the Elite Avanti is its quiet and smooth operation.

Thanks to its balanced flywheel and optimized resistance system, the trainer produces minimal noise, making it ideal for home use, even in apartments or shared living spaces. This allows riders to train early in the morning or late in the evening without disturbance, adding flexibility and convenience to winter training routines. So no more worries about disturbing while you are training.

Connectivity is key

Connectivity is a major highlight of the Avanti trainer. It supports ANT+, Bluetooth FTMS, and Wi-Fi connections, making it fully compatible with popular indoor cycling platforms such as Zwift, Trainer Road, Rouvy, and Elite’s My E-Training app. Through these platforms, riders can access structured workouts, virtual routes, group rides, and races, which significantly increase motivation and engagement during long winter periods. The interactive nature of these applications transforms indoor training from a repetitive task into an immersive and enjoyable experience.

Ease of use is another factor that makes the Elite Avanti particularly suitable for winter training. The trainer offers automatic calibration, reducing setup time and eliminating the need for frequent manual adjustments. Its sturdy construction ensures stability during intense efforts, while practical details such as foldable feet and an integrated carrying handle make storage and transport simple when space is limited. In terms of compatibility, the Elite Avanti works with a wide range of bicycles, including road, gravel, and mountain bikes, and supports various axle standards and cassette options. This flexibility allows riders to train on their own bike throughout the winter, maintaining proper riding position and muscle memory – small things, but essential for optimal preparation.

Indoor cycling with an outdoor feeling

Overall, the Elite Avanti smart trainer is an effective and reliable solution for maintaining physical condition during the winter months, for a person with an active lifestyle, as well as a high-performance athlete. By combining precise power measurement, realistic resistance, quiet operation, smart connectivity, and ease of use, it enables consistent, data-driven, and engaging training sessions indoors. As a result, cyclists and athletes in general can preserve their fitness, build strength and endurance, and remain motivated all winter long, ready to return to outdoor training at full potential when conditions improve.

Living in the mountains of Transylvania, it’s not easy to replicate the terrain accurately with an interactive trainer. However, thanks to the Avanti, it is now possible to train on routes from the Carpathian Mountains without leaving the warmth of my apartment. Now, that’s got to be good for winter training! Coffee and a well calibrated and reliably realistic cycling trainer!

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