West Berkshire Spokes

Spokes chair, William, visited the National Cycle show at the weekend which was also combined with the National Outdoors show – one ticket two shows, and the tickets were complimentary too!

The cycle show was significantly smaller, in terms of area used as well as number of exhibitors. The last show he visited was just before covid. Many of the big names, such as the major bicycle manufacturers and accessories suppliers were no where to be seen. Whether this is a result of economics or some intentional focus on smaller brands isn’t clear. But it was striking.

The vast majority of bicycle manufacturers were exhibiting their electric bikes, and for many, this was their main focus.

A few notable exhibitors bringing something a little different or innovative were…

Velorim – who recycle bicycle tyres, tubes and li-ion batteries. There is no participating store within West Berkshire where you can drop off your items for re-cycling. Although we are surround by many in Oxford, Reading and Hampshire. Spokes will be approaching local stores to see if they wish to participate (stores need to currently pay to take away these items). However, you can nominate a local bike shop or shop that sells bikes via the website (https://velorim-group.com/contact).

In the ever developing world of e-bikes, Skarper have developed a device that can be used to transform any bike into an e-bike. The “USP” being you can easily remove it and fit it to another bike, and once removed your e-bike is now just a bike again. It fits onto the chainstay, and so it may conflict with some racks and trailer mounts. However, it provides a potential solution and avoids investment in a whole new e-bike. (See https://skarper.com/ for more information.)

Looking for a different type of saddle – then look no further than Frame Cycles’ cork saddle. With titanium in the mix they are not cheap at £100, and you might question the longevity of the cork material. However they provide service whereby you can return a saddle that is worn out and they replace the cork part and return to you. The cork itself is returned to Portugal to be re-cycled into another saddle! Advantages advertised are their light weight, resistance to water and cushioning. (See https://framecycles.com/ for more information.)

For those looking for an organised cycle tour with more adventure and a simpler approach, then Zero Carbon Adventures may be the company for you. A small company that focuses on sustainability and the shared experience. Rides start near to train stations or ferry ports. And it is bike packing so you will be carrying your own gear – although this does not necessarily mean camping at the day’s end.  Daily distances vary but are generally around 40 miles. Tours may also include activities such as star gazing in award winning locations or whiskey tasting. As a small company they only have a few tours; a Scottish coast to coast, Dartmoor and Northern Spain. (See www.zerocarbonadventures.uk for more details.)

All in all an excellent day out and recommended to bicycle enthusiasts everywhere. There was a wide range of talks, various celebrity speakers, live BMX and MTB shows as well as mechanical workshops and advice. You can check the agenda for this year here: https://nationalcyclingshow.com/agenda and sign up for tickets for next year.