spokesmanclothing-blog - Tumblr blog

[spokesmanclothing-blog]

LONG HAUL ROAD CYCLING – HOW TO CONSERVE YOUR ENERGY

http://www.spokesmanclothing.com/long-haul-road-cycling-conserve-energy/The most successful road cyclists are incredibly skilled when it comes to conserving their energy. Whether it’s riding mastering a riding position or wearing the correct clothing, they know that every calorie counts. When it comes to cycling, it’s all about burning slowly and efficiently using your energy throughout the ride so that you can use your extra energy when it’s needed. Below are a few tips we have for getting the most out of your energy when road-cycling long distance.

1. RIDING POSTURE

It may sound simple but sitting on your bike correctly conserves energy. If you’re sat too far forward or you’re too high up, it can lead to poor energy transfer and sometimes can result in injury.

Protection cycling shorts are always a good way of making yourself comfortable.

The padding is designed to support your body and fit you right when you’re in a cycling position. Our shorts have been designed with this in mind. CLICK HERE

Perfect posture is always important for cycling; let your legs do the work. Try to keep your upper body as still as possible, relax your shoulders and keep looking at where you’re going. The more you move around, the more energy you lose. Focus on loosening up and pushing all your energy into your pedals.

2. CUT CADENCE ON CLIMBS

Data from seven pro cyclists during the 1999 season covering the Tour, Giro and Vuelta showed that cadence usually dropped on climbs to 60-80rpm [Lucia, A. et al, 2001]. In flat peloton-based stages and individual time trials, cadence averaged 80-99rpm. Spin when riding against the clock or in a group but lower the revs when you climb for longer periods.

This goes against the 100rpm climbing method, so one size does not fit all. Try varying cadences to see what works for you. At the very least it will stimulate your muscles and nervous system differently, most likely causing some positive changes in cycling efficiency.

3. CHANGE YOUR TECHNIQUE

You can potentially improve your bike performance by changing the way you pedal, but we’re only talking about marginal gains. So if you’re a beginner, you’re better off concentrating on training consistently, improving your equipment and maybe getting some coaching at a local club. Pedalling technique should be a long way down your list of worries.

But if you’re an experienced rider looking to make small improvements, you could certainly shave off a few seconds by thinking about the way you pedal. For now, it seems that the two best ways to do this, are optimising your cadence and trying out ovalised chainrings. We aren’t saying that you’ll become the next Chis Froome, but you certainly could improve your PB.

4. WEAR THE RIGHT GEAR

It may sound obvious but lots of people forget that what you wear can seriously alter how successful you are on your ride. If you wear a jersey, you have plenty of storage space for your water, snacks and anything else you need to bring along the way. Your helmet, gloves and glasses are important as they lower the risk of any injuries. If you are to come off your bike at any point, your cycling gear can protect you and help you to jump back in the saddle quickly. Here at Spokesman, we have designed our range to take our riders’ safety and comfort into consideration. We have a range of riding accessories here CLICK HERE

5. DRAFTING

Drafting is by far and away the number 1 way for you to conserve energy during a race.  Unbelievably, in a peloton ( a group of cyclists), riders can save up to 40% (1) of their energy by riding behind others or to the side opposite where the wind is coming from.  This means that if the rider pulling the pack is laying down 400 watts, the riders behind him only need to put out ~240 watts to keep up.  The further down the line you are, the greater the energy conserved, so if you find yourself coming to the front of a peloton or paceline in a race, slow up a little bit so you stay in the slipstream and make the other riders work.  This will conserve your energy, but may not make you many friends!

These tips are just guidelines and suggestions that can help you to improve your cycling technique.  For more daily tips and techniques, don’t forget to follow us on  INSTAGRAM, FACEBOOK and TWITTER!

http://www.spokesmanclothing.com/long-haul-road-cycling-conserve-energy/

[spokesmanclothing-blog]

THE SPOKESMAN GUIDE TO THE 2 MOST POPULAR DISCIPLINES

THE SPOKESMAN GUIDE TO THE 2 MOST POPULAR CYCLING DISCIPLINES

As you progress into the cycling world, it’ll become evident to you that there are many disciplines to this sport – and they’re all incredibly unique.

Yes, of course, every discipline involved you jumping in the saddle and pushing your pedals in a circular motion, we know that for a start. What we mean is that each discipline demands a lot of different things both physically and mentally. Progressing from one discipline to the next is always going to be challenging, however, it’ll most certainly make you a stronger competitor in the cycling world.

With that being said, there are two disciplines in particular that are incredibly popular, but which one is best for you?

MOUNTAIN

If you are looking for an adventurous style of cycling, mountain biking is the way to go! Generally, the power output in mountain biking is lower, however, the effort you put into it will fluctuate throughout the whole route.

During the ride, you’ll have to conquer steep climbs and timed descents. It will demand a lot of physical effort. These efforts will consist of short bursts where zero power output is generated. These bursts can last from 5 to 25 seconds and can occur somewhere between 75 to 100 times in a 2-hour cross-country race.

You will need a massive anaerobic capacity in order to handle the changes in power and to go between 0 to 250 watts at a number of different times during the race.

An all-mountain bike is designed to conquer every type of off-road terrain, includes climbs, descents, technical riding and jumping. Most mountain bikes have a featherweight frame with either dual or front suspension. Unlike a road bike, the mountain bike has thicker, more rugged tyres in order to be able to effectively cover the jagged terrain and uneven surfaces.

As for mental demands, mountain biking can feel like a solo effort. This is because it’s incredibly easy for you to lose sight of other cyclists in the race. Mountain bikers have to have a lot of confidence, as it can be incredibly difficult to keep going when you cannot see the sight of anyone else. You must be able to remind yourself that you are doing well and are on the right track. You also have to be able to forgive yourself if you do take the wrong route. Realise that mistakes are made by everyone, don’t let them affect your race.

ROAD

Most cyclists begin by riding on a road. From your first childhood bike to your first professional bike, you’ll definitely use the road more than anything. Road racing is typically comprised of about 200 other cyclists or competitors. Road racing is the most popular form of cycling, however, mountain biking is rapidly increasing in popularity!

Road racing bikes focus mostly on speed. Their frames are ultra lightweight and made of either steel, aluminium or carbon fibre. Generally, road bikes have drop handlebars and up to 22 different gear ratios to help the rider cope with the varying terrain.

When cycling on a road, you need to have a high and steady state. Road cycling also demands an average power output in order to succeed. Road cycling demands training for the highest of efforts to initiate or conquer a breakaway, or even sprint for the finish! The output needed when road cycling differs completely from mountain biking. It doesn’t fluctuate as often, this is because you have fewer obstacles and a generally flatter terrain to cover. Clothing is also incredibly important when it comes to road cycling.

Here at Spokesman, we know that comfort is key. When sitting in the saddle, you need to ensure that the padding in your shorts can provide superior protection during long-distance rides. The grip is also an important factor; you need to be able to sit comfortably on your bike without having to worry about slipping off. If you’re in need of a supportive and comfortable pair of cycling shorts, you should check out our RANGE OF SHORTS!

In a road cycling race, you’ll need to learn how to conserve your energy. Tactics and patience play an important part in racing. You’ll also need to mentally note that the fittest or fattest person doesn’t necessarily always win. If you’re stuck in a large group when coming to the finish line, it’s a chance of fate if you’re in a good position. This you can learn over time. A road cyclist must also learn from their mistakes and not to judge their performances on their finishing results.

Blog Resource:http://www.spokesmanclothing.com/spokesman-guide-2-popular-disciplines/

[spokesmanclothing-blog]

HERE ARE THE TOP 5 PIECES OF KIT THAT EVERY BEGINNER WILL NEED

ARE YOU JOINING THE CYCLING WORLD? HERE ARE THE TOP 5 PIECES OF KIT THAT EVERY BEGINNER WILL NEED:

  The benefits of cycling are never-ending, from the cycle commute to work, to the adventure trail trekking weekends. The freedom it gives you and the release of happy endorphins are endless, but there is nothing worse than feeling ill-equipped.

Whether you are new to the world of cycling or still figuring out exactly what your cycling kit essentials should be, we aim to share informative advice to get you out on the road.

 THE HELMET

 It seems like stating the obvious, but a helmet is first and foremost the most important piece of kit that you need. It can often be rather confusing when choosing the right one. Most brands now offer three somewhat distinct types of road helmets: fully vented traditional, aerodynamic, and the newer semi aero design.

Helmets are commonly constructed from expanded polystyrene foam, which is protected with a thin layer of polycarbonate to help spread the impact over the foam. The internal construction of a helmet consists of soft foam or gel padded for comfort, and secure straps which loop the ears and fasten under the chin.

A relatively new protection system for helmets is called MIPS: Multi-directional Impact Protection System. This innovative design provides a low-friction slip cage inside the helmet, which helps reduce rotational forces incurred through impact.

Helmets sold in the UK should meet the British Standard, and this will be marked with the BS Kite Mark. You can check the helmet also meets European standards, which will be displayed via the CE mark.

 GET LAYERED

  The Great British weather is highly unpredictable and battling the elements can at times be a job in itself, however, prior preparation is key.

Layering up is important because layers trap your body heat between them, allowing you to stay warmer during cool-weather rides. You can also remove a layer should the temperature rise unexpectedly. When done correctly, your layers will also pull moisture away from your skin, as well as keep outside moisture from reaching your skin in damp conditions, to keep you dry and comfortable on a ride.

At Spokesman, we have used breakthrough technologies in our high-performance range that offer protection from the elements, whilst allowing your skin to breathe.

 THE GLASSES

When choosing glasses to protect your eyes, there are a number of options to consider. Whilst one piece lenses offer the best protection from weather conditions and flying debris, dust and dirt, there are options to buy glasses that have interchangeable lenses. Most cycling glasses with interchangeable lenses come with three lens options:

 The standard shaded lens with 100 UV Protection – great for dimming bright conditions in summer.

Yellow tinted lens – ideal for overcast conditions, brightening up grey flat light, adding contrast and a little lightness to your vision.

Clear Lenses – useful for dark, wet or night riding.

 GET REFLECTIVE

  The research on visibility is incredibly mixed (apart from at night, when reflective kit and good lighting is a must). If someone isn’t going to see you, they won’t notice you whether you’re in a yellow jacket or a black one. However, clever reflecting detail can be the key.

Our range is designed to enhance your safety through the very strategic positioning of reflective strips that are relevant to your riding position. Visibility is about contrast and changing conditions. Using a combination of monochrome palettes with bright coloured accents can be just as effective as wearing a high-vis jacket.

If you are riding through urban areas, it might surprise you to read that a 2012 study by the Transport Research Laboratory concluded that, unlikely as it sounds, black or white sometimes offered more of a stark contrast than bright colours on busy city roads.

 THE SECURITY

  One of the best ways to safeguard your bike is also one of the most commonly overlooked: knowing its serial number.

“It’s the single most important thing you can have if the bike goes missing,” says Bryan Hance of BIKE INDEX, a digital bike registry. Photos and unique characteristics — a sticker here, a funky component there — are helpful for post-theft identification, but the serial number “is the only thing that’s going to prove that it’s yours.”

Typically, this can be found engraved beneath the bottom bracket or on one of a few other easy-to-spot places.

Invest in a high-quality D-lock. A poor quality lock at the lower end of the market can be easily sawn through or bolt cropped in seconds. It certainly pays to invest in the best quality lock you can afford (At least £30 -£40). Always lock your bicycle to something immovable, an object a bicycle cannot be lifted over and cannot be broken, cut or removed i.e. chain link fencing, grilles, gates or trees – check the object is fastened to the ground. For maximum protection use two locks of different types (a D-lock and robust chain and padlock are ideal). Use each lock to catch the wheels, frame and stand.

SUMMARY

There are many things that you need to consider when starting to cycle, so this list is not exhaustive by any means! The more important thing is to have fun and enjoy yourself!

We hope you have found this useful and if you have any questions at all, you can get in touch through our social media FACEBOOK / INSTAGRAM / TWITTER

[spokesmanclothing-blog]

HOW SHOULD YOU CHOOSE A BIKE JERSEY

WHICH SPOKESMAN JERSEY IS RIGHT FOR YOU? READ THE SPOKESMAN GUIDE.

electing the correct performance wear is very important, not just in cycling.

Our jerseys are designed to perform a number of functions, absorb perspiration, improve aerodynamics, be functional and importantly stylish.

Our jerseys are available in a variety of sizes and colours with the long or short sleeve.

There are a number of factors to take into account when buying your jersey, not limited to the three we list however this guide should definitely help you on your way to deciding and remember we are always here on hand at Spokesman to help you with any questions you may have.

Why not get in touch through our social media! FACEBOOK / INSTAGRAM / TWITTER

The first question to ask yourself is ….

1- WEATHER – WHAT CONDITIONS WILL I BE RIDING IN?

Are you riding in the winter or the summer and where will you be riding, in the UK our touring through France?

These are really important questions, as they will have bearing on your jersey selection.

Addressing the seasons first, obviously cycling in the Winter and Summer will require a different selection of clothing.

Is there a possibility that there will be changeable conditions?

Our ever-popular Trio Jersey takes you through the seasons  And comes with a pair of fleece-lined arm warmers so depending on the conditions you can either have them on or off.

Our race cut Trio Jersey is like a lightweight second skin, created from ultra-light four-way stretch jersey to make you completely aerodynamic.

The fabric is a three-ply Stormshield fabric, providing great protection from the elements, as it is both windproof and water-resistant.

As the seasons change the Trio Jersey will be your perfect companion, it’s adaptable, comfortable, and perfect for any weather condition!

READ MORE ABOUT OUR TRIO JERSEY HERE:

HTTP://WWW.SPOKESMANCLOTHING.COM/SPOKESMAN/JERSEYS/TRIO-JERSEY.HTML

ARE THINGS WARMING UP OUTSIDE?

In dry, warm conditions we would recommend a light jersey.

The Chronicle Jersey has a superb aerodynamic fit, but unlike most of the slim cut jerseys, which are clingy and constricting, the high stretch fabric is fitted but comfortable and it won’t hug you too tightly

Designed as a successor to our hugely popular Ghost Jersey, the fabric features the same Coldblack® technology which absorbs less heat, staying cool against the skin in hot weather. Despite being a black jersey, the Chronicle jersey is still ideal for summer because we use Coldblack technology which absorbs less heat, staying cool against the skin.

The sleeves are raw edge mesh, which reduces the weight you’re carrying when you wear it. The back panel overlaps the pocket section of the garment adding a further aerodynamic quality. The inside panel features a chronicle of our favourite bikes through the last century.

YOU CAN READ MORE ABOUT OUR CHRONICLE JERSEY HERE:

HTTP://WWW.SPOKESMANCLOTHING.COM/SPOKESMAN/JERSEYS/CHRONICLE-JERSEY.HTML

2- STYLE – WHAT CYCLING WILL YOU BE DOING?

The correct style and fit ensure the maximum performance and comfort of your cycling jersey.

Are you road racing or off-roading or do you just want to be comfortable?

If you are looking for a performance fit then our Tracker Jersey has a superb aerodynamic fit!

It features a perforated mesh that starts at the shoulder and runs into a cuff for added breathability. It also features strategic stitch lines to stop the back pocket bagging when it’s full of your essentials and a reflective stripe for enhanced visibility in the evenings. The print is taken from track marks on the Manchester velodrome.

RE YOU READY TO GO FASTER? READ MORE HERE:

HTTP://WWW.SPOKESMANCLOTHING.COM/SPOKESMAN/JERSEYS/TRACKER-JERSEY.HTML

FF ROAD RIDING?

The Cross Jersey is made using very tough, high density, stretch polyester jersey, with a fine-brushed back chosen because of its high resistance to nagging and abrasion. As a Gravel Rider, this jersey is suitable for riding both on and off road and is specifically designed to combat mud and wheel spray. The contour pattern was inspired by the elevations of the Dalby Forest in Yorkshire.

RELEASE THE GRAVEL RIDER WITHIN:

http://www.spokesmanclothing.com/spokesman/jerseys/cross-jerseys.html

IS COMFORT YOUR PRIORITY?

An all-around jersey, the Champions Jersey is our most premium garment as it’s made with a high wicking jacquard fabric, a first in cycling jerseys. It is a soft and comfortable fabric, which is also highly breathable and includes a strip of the reflective pixel on the neck and zip for low light protection. The inside of the garment features a list of the winners of a well known all night cycling race in London.

Become a champion in comfort and style:

HTTP://WWW.SPOKESMANCLOTHING.COM/SPOKESMAN/JERSEYS/CHAMPIONS-JERSEY.HTML

It may sound funny but choosing your colour and look is a massive factor, does this mean you are more likely to wear it and more likely to get out when you are less inclined to? We think so!

If you are riding at night, reflectiveness is important and if you are carrying everything you need can your Jersey support this?

Our Climbers Jersey is the epitome of cool. The back features a band of reflective pixel for visibility and the interior back panel features a To Do list of European climbs

The Climbers Jersey has an aerodynamic but comfortable fit which is tailored from 3 fabrics. The front panel is a very breathable (but not see through) mesh, and the back and shoulders are made from a performance stretch fabric, with high UPV protection. It has mesh panels to the sides for ventilation and the three back pockets are made from a sturdier mesh to prevent bagging when the pockets are filled with cargo.

CHECK OUT MORE SPECIFICATIONS HERE:

HTTP://WWW.SPOKESMANCLOTHING.COM/SPOKESMAN/JERSEYS/CLIMBERS-JERSEY.HTML

OT THE TECHNICAL GEAR? ARE YOU CARRYING SUPPLIES?

Our Sportif Jersey is designed for a long day in the saddle. It is made from a high density, water resistant stretch polyester jersey. Three internal back pockets allow you to carry extra supplies in preparation for the ride ahead. Along with the standard reflective panel on the back pocket there is an additional reflective strip across the back providing added visibility as the days’ conditions change. The inside print features a breakdown of our top ten sportives.

RIDE ALL DAY WITH EVERYTHING YOU MIGHT NEED, SEE THE FULL SPECIFICATION HERE:

HTTP://WWW.SPOKESMANCLOTHING.COM/SPOKESMAN/JERSEYS/SPORTIFF-JERSEY.HTML

SUMMARY

There are many factors to address when choosing your jersey and here at Spokesman Clothing [http://www.spokesmanclothing.com] we have developed a range that should cover every eventuality.

We use breakthrough technologies that are developed to be cutting edge while also stylish and comfortable.

WE HOPE THIS GUIDE HAS BEEN HELPFUL! TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR EXTENSIVE RANGE OF JERSEYS HERE:

HTTP://WWW.SPOKESMANCLOTHING.COM/SPOKESMAN/JERSEYS.HTML

Blog Resource:http://www.spokesmanclothing.com/how-should-you-choose-bike-jersey/

[spokesmanclothing-blog]

SPOKESMAN’S DALES CAFÉ ROUND-UP

No ride is complete without the cafe stop, and the Yorkshire Dales are blessed with the finest hosts and cake-makers in the land. 

Jonathan Brownlee is reported to have said the Wharfe View at Burnsall was a cornerstone of his training programme, and Tom Pidcock mentioned the Cavendish at Bolton Abbey when interviewed as part of ITV’s Tour De France coverage. So what makes a great cycling cafe?

A hungry set of Alba Rosa riders recently set out the criteria for success that amounted to value for money, on-site bike locks, food, speedy service and location. They’re a demanding bunch.

Zarina’s Tearoom Café in Kettlewell is 55km from Leeds and a good stopover before either heading home or pushing upwards into the more adventurous territory of Park Rash, Fleet Moss or Kidstones.

The owner of the café, Zarina Belk, explained to Spokesman how cycling was an important part of her business. ‘70% of it (the business) is dependent on cyclists,’ said Zarina.  ‘We do as much as we can to provide everything they need from gels, gluten-free food and of course the best fresh food and homemade cakes. I think good healthy food is what visitors want and we set out to serve that.

‘I’ve seen a big increase in cycling since the London Olympics in 2012 and the Tour De France in 2014,’ says Zarina, ‘and they come because they appreciate the little things we do. As well as food at reasonable prices, we offer up our Aga and tumble drier if it’s been raining.’

The friendly Zarina then outlined her genius. ‘We have introduced a loyalty scheme for cyclists who don’t want to carry loose change in their rear pockets. We have a yellow card where they can give us their coins, and put it on the card for the next time they come in.’ Plus, you get an extra 10% discount.

Spokesman had an Americano coffee and poached eggs on toast for £7.95.

Lodged between Ilkley and Kettlewell is the picturesque village of Burnsall. The Wharfe View Café has been fuelling cyclists for 30 years including regulars such as the Brownlee brothers, Ilkley CC, Valley Striders and the Leeds Alecarts.

It has guidebook charm, and run by two sisters, Jennifer Stapleton and Heather Schindler. Jennifer had her own ideas about what makes a good cycling café. ‘We’ve got great atmosphere here and you can turn up on your own and we’ll fix you up with someone to chat to. It’s more like a social club with good homemade food.’

Jennifer showed me the towels used by the Brownlees as well as a high grade pump, and toolbox just to make certain cyclist are catered for in every eventuality. It is a small, welcoming café and a place with real atmosphere. Its charm sucks out the lactic acid, and the cakes are varied, tasty and well priced.

Spokesman had a filter coffee (no posh Arabica beans here) and carrot cake for £3.95. Good portions and well priced with reading matter if you so wished.

There’s a theme building here but that is shattered by the imposing presence of the Cavendish Pavilion (aka Cav Pav) which is the Google of Wharfedale cycling stops.

The proximity to Leeds is its asset and the location on the banks of the River Wharfe makes it a well positioned stop. There’s little evidence of Yorkshire charm, but this is premium factory farming of flapjack, teacakes, and coffee.

On a Saturday morning, it is packed with cyclists with ample space (both inside and out) to gather and recharge for the short trek (35km) back to Leeds. It pretty much stands out as the cycling stop.

However, arrive after midday and the place is overrun with dog walkers and families (paying a hefty £10 to park the car).

I ordered black coffee (medium) and toasted teacake – £4.95. A pot of jam was extra at 50p.

-End-

Do you have a cycling stop you’d like to champion? We’d love to hear about it.

[spokesmanclothing-blog]

CYCLIST CONQUERS ‘EVEREST’ ON A BIKE

The slope itself may only be 1.9km in length, averaging 9.2%, yet it offers some respite following a hard 16% push from the bottom. From then on the ride allows some recovery until the next rise, and a steady heave-ho to the top. Spotting the white domes of Menwith Hill in the distance will announce a full 174m of climbing all the way from base camp to summit. A Leeds cycling fan has done the extraordinary by riding up Norwood Edge a total of 53 times in a single day, conquering in the process the vertical elevation of Mount Everest. The two-wheeled slog, which took 17 hours to complete, amounted to over 8,900 metres of climbing, and a few pedal strokes over the official height of the world’s highest mountain.

Richard Banks, 32, from Leeds, achieved the epic effort on the 1.9 kilometre hill north of Otley, West Yorkshire, which features in Simon Warren’s definitive book 100 Greatest Cycling Climbs. Banks, a charity architect, operated without supplementary oxygen instead stuffed his Spokesman jersey pockets with protein goodies to set up the successful assault.

But where does an idea for such a back-breaking workout come from? As Banks explains he first heard of climbing Everest on a bike (aka Everesting) from the popular blog by hill climbing specialist, Tejvan Pettinger. Once on the radar, Banks got in to shape by competing in regular sportives before giving it his full, and undivided attention.

“I did a previous Everest attempt (official height of 8,848m) on Norwood in May 2016,” says Banks, “and only got to 18 reps, around 3,500 metres. I really wasn’t ready in terms of fitness, experience or preparation.”

Already there’s unfinished business, and under the official rules of the Hells 500 Club (can you believe there are rules for this HTTP://WWW.EVERESTING.CC/THE-RULES/ ), everything was ready for a revisit. Fast forward to June 2017, and Banks parked his car at the top of the climb, with the vehicle doubling up as a mobile gel dispenser, and began his first ascent at 6am.

Luckily, Norwood Edge is Rich Banks’ favourite hill climb or the boredom might have been too much for a single rider to handle.  Admittedly, the scenery has a woodland gloss, yet there is a strategy in tackling the beast of Norwood as Banks further explains: “Every 4 or 5 reps I stopped at the top for a few minutes and had something to eat. The plan was not to have a big meal, but just keep eating little and often, and that was the key.”

“I broke the climb down into targets, and by midday had done 20 reps. By 4pm I had done another 20 so from then on it was literally uphill all the way.”

Everesting is a new concept to cycling and has been promoted by the Strava era. Records and distances vary from climb to climb but Banks looks to have the Norwood benchmark for the moment. A previous and successful attempt by cyclist Paul Willcoxson in 2016 took two hours longer and clocked a distance of over 200km.

The slope itself may only be 1.9km in length, averaging 9.2%, yet it offers some respite following a hard 16% push from the bottom. From then on the ride allows some recovery until the next rise and a steady heave-ho to the top. Spotting the white domes of Menwith Hill in the distance will announce a full 174m of climbing all the way from base camp to summit.

So what about the future? Repeating the ride is not something Banks wants to contemplate even if another rider eclipses his time. Instead, he will concentrate on another cycling challenge such as riding 500km through five national parks, over five classic climbs, all on the same day.

This cycling Spokesman wishes Richard the best of luck.

Ready to give Everesting a go? Or have a special ride you want to share? Get in touch and we’ll do what we can to have you in our wheel.

[spokesmanclothing-blog]

RIDER ON THE STORM

Developed in Italy our Stormrider 1 and Stormrider 2 membrane has revolutionised the waterproof breathable category, by creating a ‘dry system’ which instantly vents the moisture that typically builds up inside your garments as you sweat. The lightweight jerseys are windproof and four way stretch, which creates a second skin feeling.

COLD BLACK SUN REFLECTOR

Dark colours are known to heat up in direct sunlight more than light colours because they absorb both the visible and invisible elements of the sun’s rays. We treat our dark coloured jerseys with Coldblack® which guarantees a minimum UV protection of UPF 30.

GLASS PARTICLE TECHNOLOGY

For protection, we use a perforated stretch, reflective material which is coated with thousands of glass microspheres which are highly reflective

New Zealand merino sports wool™, the fabric has a polyester facing for durability but a merino inner layer for thermoregulation it is a soft and comfortable fabric which is also highly.

Blog Resource:

[spokesmanclothing-blog]

ARE YOU SITTING COMFORTABLY?

Are you sitting comfortably? A question that makes every cyclist cross their fingers as they set out in a new pair of shorts. While the pad may not be the flashiest or most interesting part of a garment, it is what makes the difference between a good, bad or great cycling short. One ride in a bad pair of shorts and you’ll be grimacing for hours, desperate for an ice pack. We know that at the heart of a great pair of shorts is the perfect pad, and so with that in mind we teamed up with the company that invented the anatomically shaped pad – CyTech.

BEHIND CYTECH

Founded in 2000 in San Vendemiano, Italy, Stefano Coccia and Marino De Marchi set about to revolutionise the protection pad sector with their brand Elastic Interface®. Now market leaders in their field, Elastic Interface® pads can be found in nearly all major European cycling brands and it’s no surprise why. The amount of scientific research and hi-tech development behind these pads is staggering, with the company teaming up with the University of Padua to deepen their knowledge of how and why all the individual components work together. They use a combination of five different foam densities (albeit not all at once) to tailor their product to suit the specific needs of the client, and if that wasn’t enough, up to around 40% of Cytech’s business is custom work.

ENDURANCE PAD 2 – THE COMFORT ZONE

At Spokesman, we use the Elastic Interface® Endurance 2 pad. As our main focus is on road cyclists, it makes sense to use Cytech’s premium road pad. Developed specifically with the cyclist’s position in mind, the areas that take the maximum pressure are the areas with the higher density foam – in road cycling this is where the saddle becomes narrower. As you can see from the image on the right – the rider’s weight is leaning forwards on the saddle to allow for a more aerodynamic shape. These pads use two different density foams to ensure ultimate comfort as well as being shaped specially to offer the optimum protection and fit. They are ideal for long rides as they hold their form well, as the name suggests they are an endurance pad.

EIT X-TRACT FABRICS

The fabrics on the pad are just as important as the foam support. Like the chamois of old they must be as seam free as possible to avoid any eye-watering chafing. The Endurance 2 pad is thermos moulded which creates a smooth transition and flush surfaces ergo no rough seams that could rub. The EIT X-Tract fabric is created from a double layer structure which helps collect and expel moisture. The top layer collects moisture, for maximum sweat absorption, and forces it down into the second layer, which then expels it, providing a fresh and dry effect along with increased breathability. This process is known as hydrophilicity (possibly my new favourite word) and allows the skin to dry faster and lacerate less. But this wasn’t enough for Cytech and they wanted to take the quality of their pads one step further. All Elastic Interface® pads have inherent bacteriostasis properties which means that they inhibit the growth of bad bacteria but preserve the good bacteria that occurs naturally in the skin.

It’s largely down to the huge advances made by Cytech in their Elastic Interface® pads, along with our designer’s keen knowledge of an uncomfortable short that guarantees supreme comfort and an enjoyable riding experience in our Spokesman shorts.

[spokesmanclothing-blog]

WHY YOU NEED TO GO OFF-ROAD THIS WINTER

I suspect I find you in a difficult situation, where the nights are drawing to a close just too soon, the weather is way too cold and the pleasure of riding your road bike has become, well, less pleasurable. However, despair not, I’m here to tell you about a form of cycling that will save your fitness over these harsh winter months. I think you know what I’m talking about, and no I’m not asking you to trade in your fashionable lycra* and high tech carbon roadie for soft suspension and baggie shorts. I am however going to persuade you why you need to consider it and have a go at ‘the dark side’ of cycling this winter.

*Disclaimer: You will remain fashionable in the Spokesman Cross Jersey, no baggies required.

So here are the four big reasons why you need to hang up your slicks and head out on that trail this winter.

IT’S A WHOLE BODY EXPERIENCE

It’s the truth, when you go out on the trails for the first time you’ll wake up the next day with jelly arms. Those long road miles have not done your bicep definition any favours, but thankfully after a winter off-road your definition will challenge that of a seasoned bodybuilder (results not guaranteed). In all seriousness, that added strength from mountain biking does wonders for you physique and will help keep you at a lean race weight even through mince pie season.

BEST BANG FOR YOUR BUCK

Four hours out on the road? Half that. On the trail you’re going to be working a lot harder than usual. Up, down, on, off, left, right, that constant effort you’re become accustomed to will be no more. So not only do you have to concentrate more on what’s coming up, your legs will be going through a hell you could’ve never quite imagined. By the end of a big ride you’ll have that wobbly leg feeling that can only be replicated by a 200kg deadlift.

SKILLS TO PAY THE BILLS

Want to be wheelie good like Sagan? (I couldn’t resist) We all know he’s a magician on two wheels, but it’s not all by chance. Prior to his road cycling career, Sagan was the Junior XC World Champion and also a silver medalist at the Junior Cyclocross World Championships. He’s also now casually the two-time world champion on the road, but yeah that off-road riding probably had nothing to do with it…. Once you hit the trails a few times, the skills you earn pay dividends on the road. Your descending, cornering and even climbing ability will be improving despite the fact the tarmac’s freezing over.

IT’S THE MOST FUN YOU CAN HAVE ON TWO WHEELS

Okay, you love road cycling and if you don’t, well, you’re obviously not a normal person. So now imagine if you could go out cycling in the snow, mud, rain, hail, sleet (you get the picture) and have fun, regardless. Well, weather makes little difference off-road, the trees surrounding you protect you from the harsh environments and more rain = more mud and more mud = more fun (possibly the most important point here). So next time you’re getting drenched head to toe on that never-ending straight, trying to remind yourself why you put yourself through it, think of me with a grin on my face sliding around in the mud on two wheels. Then, maybe, you might think that it is probably time to go off-road.