What’s in the Bag
Hannah gives useful advice to racers on putting together the ideal kit bag for race days
Posts
Lemon Chia Oatmeal Pancakes
Healthy and easy to bake nutrition option for cyclists from Hannah Shell, using her own race experience
Comfort and Happiness
We too often mistake comfort for happiness
I read this phrase in a travel blog somewhere about six years ago, before I ventured out of my Midwestern comfort zone to study abroad in Argentina
Rider Interview: Maeve Plouffe
Beyond talent, Maeve’s passion and positivity for cycling are contagious. Read our interview with Maeve and give her a follow @maeveplouffe on instagram to see her fantastic photos
Pages
Blogs
Our team write blogs and informative articles about all manner of subjects. Here’s the full collection for you to browse through and read. If you have any suggestions for subjects, then simply click here and let us know.
Larisa Chinces – The Last Throes of Autumn
We are in the final stages of the fall season, in November, the weather is kind now and we can still enjoy some sun now and then. The nature starts to change its coat. Warm colours begin to appear, with tones of red, yellow, orange etc. I am grateful for each season and what they each have to offer.
The Best Bike Shops – Paceline
Opened in 2016 by cycling enthusiast Mark Hanson, in a short timeframe Paceline cycles has become one of the ‘go to’ locations for Yorkshire based riders, looking for exceptional service and some of the very best custom bike builds available in the U.K. retail scene.
My Elite Red Chilli Bike
The greens of summer turn to reds and browns and a million shades, that literally light up the autumn countryside, as everything gets ready for winter and long periods of darkness.
My Red Chilli WR1 is also a object of transition and fits perfectly with the context of autumnal change, with its chameleon colours.
My Red Chilli WR1 is also a object of transition and fits perfectly with the context of autumnal change, with its chameleon colours.
Forever In Electric Dreams
Why have I so far avoided an E-Bike - I can’t answer that, because there’s no good reason, save for the simple fact that as I head into my late 50s, I want to keep as physically fit as possible. I kind of just thought that, maybe if I had an EBike I’d pedal less! How wrong I was...
Developing Cycling Efficiency and Power
You might think that riding more often will make you a better rider. Yes, it's partially true, but if a rider spends many hours in the saddle riding inefficiently, then he spends a lot of time teaching his body to ride the wrong way.
Retail Therapy for Cycle Shops
There’s a wide spectrum of styles within cycling retailers. From the legendary old school shop that we’ve known since childhood, where they put the coffee on and we simply chat, to the ultra modern and unfortunately sometimes pretentious retailer, where they keep their main showroom locked and only open it for invited customers - no, believe me, these people exist.
9 Ways of Effective Post-Race Recovery
Your main goal for any event could either be reaching the finish line, breaking your previous distance record, or qualifying for a major event. While achieving those goals is admirable and shows the fruits of months’ worth of labor, as soon as the race stops, you also need to consider how you can help your body come back stronger. For peaking at your next competition it needs to be more done just simply crashing on the sofa.
Red Chilli and Hot Pirelli Tyres
It’s autumn and soon it will be winter. We have some sunny days, during which we can still enjoy riding in shorts, but soon it will get really cold - chilli 😉
When the temperatures do drop lower and the wet and rainy weather will be most likely, it won’t be possible to cycle outside for a while. The snow will come and for safety and for the cold, we’ll have time retreat and to cycle indoors or ski 🙂 - not so bad I guess 😉 .
When the temperatures do drop lower and the wet and rainy weather will be most likely, it won’t be possible to cycle outside for a while. The snow will come and for safety and for the cold, we’ll have time retreat and to cycle indoors or ski 🙂 - not so bad I guess 😉 .
Goal Setting in Triathlon Training
Athletes who set goals are more likely to achieve their desired results than triathletes who do not set goals. To become a successful triathlete, you need to create your training plan or follow a plan from a coach.
By setting manageable goals, you will have something to strive for and are more likely to stay motivated throughout your training. Additionally, goal setting can help you track your progress and identify areas that need improvement.
By setting manageable goals, you will have something to strive for and are more likely to stay motivated throughout your training. Additionally, goal setting can help you track your progress and identify areas that need improvement.
Camelbak Lobo Pack
I’ve always loved mtb rides in the mountains of Transylvania, but I also like to explore other parts of my country too. For example, Baiu Mountains with altitudes of 1700-1900 m, located in Prahova county. Transbai is an off-road trail and it is 38 kilometers long and will connect the cities of Azuga and Busteni to Valea Doftanei. In these kind of adventures, it is important to have an adequate physical condition and proper nutrition.
Larisa at Black Sea with Red Chilli Bikes
The Romanian Black Sea resorts stretch for about 275 kilometers of coastline, along the Black Sea coast, from the Danube Delta at the northern end, down to the Bulgarian Black Sea Coast in the south. I have missed the sea so much!! I love the feeling when I walk barefoot on the sand and swim in the wavy, salty water. It’s so very relaxing and refreshing for me - body and soul.
Triathlon Mindfulness and Self Discipline
Since childhood, I had a passion for running. During my school and university days, I participated in a lot of such events. Ten years ago, however, my life changed dramatically after I was diagnosed with an explosive fracture of two vertebrae.
Foot Love
Watching SIDAS and Lake setting up at the Boardman Centre, it was clear that this was going to be an interesting day. True to this, a skeletal foot came out ... interesting.
Positive Effects of Cycling and Triathlon on the Brain
We all know that cycling does wonders for your body-improves muscle tone, helps you to lose weight, create a stronger cardiovascular system - but that’s not all the benefits of cycling. It can also improve your brain performance and make you smarter - cycling can do all of these things!!
Paltinu Lake Ride Romania
This Turquoise colored lake is situated in Doftana Valley in which the river Doftana flows in until the Prahova river. It is a wonderful part of Romania, and very little known, almost secret and hidden to the Romanians.
Red Chilli WR1 – Sitting Comfortably
Ok, now that I got your attention, we can continue with some technical aspects about my bike:
There are two really important parts to my RedChilli WR1 bike; firstly, the carbon pedals by Shimano, as they fasten to my feet and prove superb power transfer and stability when riding. Then, it’s obviously my saddle...
There are two really important parts to my RedChilli WR1 bike; firstly, the carbon pedals by Shimano, as they fasten to my feet and prove superb power transfer and stability when riding. Then, it’s obviously my saddle...
Camelbak Hawg Pro Backpack & Womens Luxe
There are so many options for biking backpacks these days. However, Camelbak have revisited the classic Mule pack, and they've created something rather special. We took a close look at the new Camelbak Hawg Pro and Ladies Luxe pack over spring and early summer.
Elite Ice Fly and Nano Fly Water Bottles
It’s the height of summer and it’s getting hotter, so hydration on and off the bike is critical. If you do become dehydrated, then it’s at least 24 hours to recover, which is why drinking off the bike is also important. And, you really do need that fluid to be refreshing, which is why Italian brand, Elite, have taken their award winning Fly bottle to new levels of technology with their latest range of bottles.
My Personal Transfaragarasan Challenge
It’s over a week now since I arrived back from Sibiu in Romania. It’s a place that I love dearly, for its amazing history, the beautiful mountains nearby, and for its people – some of whom are like family. Riding up the Transfaragarasan Highway was one of my life moments – something that I’ll remember forever.
Presca Sportswear Custom Cycling Kit
Presca was a brand that caught our attention due to their strict adherence to ethical principles at all levels of their organisation and production. All of the clothing is made from recycled fabrics, and they’re constantly working with others to drive forward their commitment to the environment.
Bike Box Alan Premium
When you look at most bike boxes, the design, even of the newest models, often seems to follow the classic design from our own favourite brand - Bike Box Alan. Now, we’re based in Yorkshire too, so let’s get this out of the way immediately; yes, we see BBA as a partner, now and into the future. Why - well, simply because they cannot be beaten in terms of looking after your precious bike.
Transfargarasan Challenge and Sibiu Cycling Tour Stage
Described as probably the best road in the world, the Transfargarasan Highway is truly an epic climb. Thankfully you can now ride it as part of a unique closed road event once a year - so we went along 🙂
Sibiu Cycling Tour 2022 Prologue
A sweltering 31 degrees heat and the international arts festival at Sibiu, saw the Pedalnorth Voom Nutrition team enjoying ice cream and international cycling racing, as the UCI Sibiu Cycling Tour began with a short evening prologue.
Sibiu Cycling Tour & Transfargarasan Challenge
It's a special place, my beautiful city of Sibiu. It's where I grew up, went to university, and I know so many of the really good places, the best cycling routes, the best views in the city and the best views from the hills overlooking the city. Now, it has a world class cycling tour too, and you can ride the roads of the racers.
Elite Cycling Fly Bottles – Ride Routine
Before every ride I do the same things. Albeit that I'm 56 years of age, I seem to be no different from what I was racing track and field years ago, lining up my shoes, with the socks placed across them and a lucky jacket nearby.
SIGR Ladies Summer Cycling Kit 2022
SIGR are a relatively unknown brand outside of the Scandinavian countries. However, we first tested them last year and were extremely impressed, with both the design and the performance. When Sigr told us that they had some new designs for 2022, it was time for Larisa to take a look.
Rosti Alpina Ladies Jersey and Pro 1 Shorts
The latest ladies summer kit from Rosti is super stylish and unique. Larisa has been testing it out in Transylvania and yes, she really likes it 🙂
Geared Up For Summer with Red Chilli Bikes
It’s 3 months now since I started riding my RedChilli and it’s a huge difference. Having been riding a double chainring and 10 speed setup for years, I’m now on a compact 11 speed. Best of all, I have a 30 at the back too, meaning that I can spin on the hills - and yes, we have lots of hills here in Transylvania and Romania.
Pirelli Scorpion XC M 2.2 Mountain Bike Tyre
Yes, I know that many riders set things up with a 2.4 at the rear and 2.2 at the front – and we might try that next- but this test was all about the Scorpion XC M 2.2 and how lively and fun a ride it provides – and boy is this an exciting tyre.
SIGR RIKSVÄG 92 Bib Shorts
These bib shorts from Swedish brand SIGR are pro level, and yet come without the price tag. Super comfortable and with loads of compression, they're ideal for long days on the bike
Sigr Fjällbäck Jersey
SIGR is a brand that’s quickly establishing itself as a quality brand with unique designs. Their latest short sleeved jersey, the Fjällbäck is typical of the brands messages within their designs, of being close to and adherence to principles that support the natural world.
Elite Cycle Trainers for Performance in Spring
Yes, my best fitness days are behind me and things tend to break or creak more easily, requiring repair. And so, as a consequence of this, getting out for long winter rides isn’t always a great idea or possible, meaning that when spring comes along, on occasions I’m playing catch up on the hills, as I battle to get that early season fitness that we dream of.
Rosti Superblack Woman summer knickers
This is my first ever pair of three quarter length cycling knickers and I really like them; they are perfect for spring and autumn and colder days in summer.
Rosti Spring ladies long sleeved jersey
I really like the turquoise color of this jersey; it's a fav in either dark or light shade. This Rosti Spring jacket comes in turquoise color on the torso area, the sleeves are grey with reflective particles, and the back of the forearm is matte black with gradient sized dots. Multiple pieces of fabric are beautifully sewn to get a better fit - viola!
Master T1 and T2 Transitions
Transitions 1 and 2 in triathlon are technically different, but they can be mastered in a similar manner. Most triathletes use the gaps between transitions to get warm again and soak up some energy for the next leg of the race. How you approach these transitions can make a big difference in your time and overall placing.
8 Habits of Successful Triathletes
Triathlon is an all-around endurance sport, which means that you need to be well-rounded to be successful. You need to be strong, have good endurance, and be able to swim, cycle and run well! In this article, we will be exploring 8 habits that successful triathletes have in common. These habits are the cornerstone of their success.
DS PRO Sweet Dreams Jersey
We want our kit to perform and to be made to the highest quality. We also want to show who we are - women. To be stylish and feminine. This DS PRO Sweet Dreams jersey is perfect for women who want to be athletes, but who want to also be proud of their style and yes, beauty.
Camelbak Podium Water Bottle Range 2022
It's hotting up outside and it's definitely time to start looking at water bottles. Larisa and Robert take a look at the latest bottles from world leaders in hydration, Camelbak 🙂
Red Chilli WR1 – Fine Tuning for Fine Riding
It's been a month since Larisa took to the roads on her Red Chilli WR1 road bike. Time to get to know the bike, make finaladjustments and start to really enjoy things 🙂
The Best Place To Buy A Triathlon Trisuit
The right trisuit is a key purchase for your race to reach your personal best. I've recently come across the tri specific brand Sumarpo which aims to provide the most eco-friendly and professional triathlon gear for triathletes and I thought that I should check it out
Morning Ride Motivation
It's not always great weather for riding. However, as cycling writers, we don't always get a choice - motivation and the weather may be against us, requiring extra personal strength just to get onto the bike...
ROSTI Gera Mens and Ladies Freeride Mountainbike Jersey
Rosti are renowned for the stylish designs on the road. We took a look at their latest mountain jersey, to see if it took their high performance and style from the road to trails.
Gravel Bike Coast To Coast Lakes Section
Our U.K. Gravel Bike Coast to Coast route starts at the beautiful coastal hamlet of Ravenglass, before entering Eskdale and the Lake District. This technical section brings epic views and a mixture of easy gravel riding and more technical terrain, as you ride your gravel bike towards Sedbergh and the Dales.
Red Chilli WR1 Review Bike
Two years in the planning, Larisa'snew bike has been a labour of love for the editorial team here at Pedalnorth. Finally, our excited editor is able to ride her new dream bike, and the journey begins for Larisa, as a brand ambassador for Red Chilli Bikes.
Rosti Hypno Jersey Bibs and Socks
ROSTI are a design orientated cycling wear brand, but they also excel in performance. Here's their latest mens kit, just in time for sprimg and summer. The HYpno jersey is both unique and stylish.
Bike Box Alan Easy Fit
Modern bikes are expensive and difficult to protect when travelling. Thankfully, Bike Box Alan have developed their Easy Fit, which caters and looks after all manner of bikes with integrated handlebars and seat posts etc. Larisa likes it so much that she became an ambassador 😉
Yakima Front Loader Bike Carrier
Yakima make carriers all kinds of bikes, and their Front Loader is probably one of the most secure and well fitting bike carrier on the market. We tested it both in Romania and in the U.K.
Waiting for spring
Waiting for the end of winter can be mentally tough. The first warm days can be simply a test of our mental strength, as the thermometer rises towards 20 degrees, only to be plunged towards 0 again soon, with snow showers and freezing rain. Robert writes about his own thoughts while waiting for spring.
Gravel Vaucluse Cycling Route
VTOPO launched the gravel route guide at the end of last year for the Departement de Vaucluse, probably better known for its Provence region, renowned for the fields of lavender and the classic climbs of Mt Ventoux. It’s a paradise for road riding, mtb routes and is one of the first areas of France to have been developed for gravel riding.
Larisa Chinces – Bike Girl To Ski Girl
When not cycling, Larisa is a multi-talented athlete and ski instructor, spending winters and into early spring in the snowy mountains. It's time to find out more about our very own Bond Girl 😉
Rosti – Designing in Style
Cycling isn’t simply a sport, it’s a way of life and yes, even a subculture. And, as with all subcultures and their members and followers, cycling has its specific cool icons that through no reason other than their uniqueness and quality sit at the very top and radiate their emblematic presence to others. ROSTI is one such iconic brand within cycling and its subculture, and their designs are works of art in themselves.
RH+ ELITE EVO W Ladies Jersey and Pista Shorts
Spring is here and it’s the perfect opportunity to take time and prepare for hot summer, by choosing new stylish cycling clothing. What we all look for in summer clothing is to be comfortable and to sweat less while wearing them. Luckily, now we have advanced technical fabrics to make it happen.
Blood Testing to Increase Performance
Traditionally, blood testing only serves diagnostic purposes in hospitals, clinics, and other medical laboratories. However, it’s now becoming more popular for professional use, including sports. In fact, many athletes are wondering if they could use blood tests to help them improve their performance.
Cronos CR3 Boa Carbon Road Cycling Shoe
When you think of Italian shoes, you instinctively think of style, and this is also true with cycling shoes. Cronos is a brand that’s becoming more widely known in Europe, as it grows in popularity at all levels, from the social cyclist, to the UCI Pro rider; and it’s easy to see why, when you look across their range.
Pirelli PZero Velo 4S
If you’re after a tyre for colder and wetter conditions, then the Pirelli PZero Velo 4S is probably an ideal choice. We’ve been using it in the harsh conditions of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, and it’s proved itself to be a fast rolling, grippy and hard wearing tyre for all conditions.
Elastic Interface Triathlon Chamois Pad
Triathlon cycling element is an aggressive position, where the rider is usually at their limit and trying to create as much performance as is possible. Add to this that the suit worn by the triathlete has two other elements to content with, then it’s a difficult decision to make in terms of what the chamois pad should be like and how technical it needs to be.
Mountain Bike Tour of Brucegi and Strunga – Romania
Romania and the area of Transylvania have some of the most beautiful forested areas and awesome mountains in Europe - if not the world. This two-day mountain bike trip takes in the mountain area of Brucegi and the Omu Peak, a famous Romanian summit.
Milan to Chiesa in Val Malenco
A great cycling route from north of Milan, cycling to Lake Como and then cycling in the Italian mountains, before descending back to Como and heading homewards.
Into 2022 with the Elite Tuo
In a world filled with indoor interactive cycling trainers, many people will be surprised to see that the good old ‘wheel on’ trainer, or ‘turbo trainer’ as it was once familiarly known, still has a place. Indeed, the Tuo Interactive Wheel On trainer by Italian brand Elite, is more than capable of holding its own
Downtown Miami Ride
Cycling, Miami style, with this long south Florida cycling route from Katya Swan. A ride of 145 km to get your legs working, this is a great cycling route for friends, with a coffee stop along the way.
