Life In The Saddle

Are you sitting comfortably? Saddle sores are a serious concern for many cyclists; at best they can be a cause of discomfort, at worst they could end a ride or adventure. After many long distance bike rides such as the #BlackForest400 and #7Countries7Passes , these are my tips for preventing and treating saddle sores. 1 – Saddle Choice Having the correct width and length of saddle makes a huge difference to the chances of encountering saddle sores. Too wide, the saddle will rub on your seat bones. Too narrow, you will sit on your perineum rather than on your seat bones. Recommended reading:  'How to Choose the Right Bicycle Saddle for You' 2 – Saddle Height The height of your saddle plays a significant role in determining the pressure and friction on your nether-regions. If your saddle height is too high then you do not put enough pressure on the pedals; increasing the pressure on your perineum or sit bones and increasing the rocking motion in the s...

The fi'zi:k Terra Ergolace X2 is a rugged and adaptable mountain biking shoe, with a traditional lacing system and semi-flexible lugged sole; giving it a more casual look and feel, and offering the versatility to also use the shoe as a casual off-bike shoe. The Terra Ergolace X2 is happy tackling any terrain—both on and off the bike, thanks to the versatile fabrics and sole tread pattern. I have been utilising this shoe mainly for running everyday errands and shopping trips rather than on the slopes of a mountain; but in this domain as well, the Terra Ergolace X2 excels… Ergolace Technology The fi'zi:k Ergolace technology refers to the unique way the shoe's uppers and lacing system combine together to provide maximum support for the foot.  The upper of the Terra X2 is made from hardwearing ripstop woven fabrics, and has an asymmetric traditional lacing system. The flexible fabric and lacing system allows you to adjust the volume within the shoe and create a cradle of ...

This year fi'zi:k completely redesigned their shoe range, with fresh ideas in both road and mountain bike lines. The fi'zi:k X5 Terra Mountain Bike Shoe might be at the lower end of the price and specification spectrum within the brand's range, but it is a well built and comfortable mountain biking shoe. New Lasts The first big change for all the fi'zi:k shoes was a change in the soles / lasts. The brand brought new technology to their design process, which looks at shaping the carbon sole of the shoe to match more closely with the contours of the foot; so providing more support and ultimately comfort for the entire length of the foot. The change is notable. I owned fi'zi:k shoes from the previous age, and they felt flat and shapeless in the footbed by comparison. This newer design feels more encompassing and more supportive. It is a solid base, even with the relatively small contact point of many mountain bike pedals. New Closures Going hand in hand wi...

Italian brand fi'zi:k have long been known for their superb range of cycling shoes, saddles and components. In 2018, they have branched out further, with the innovative new range of fizik Link bib shorts. The name 'Link' comes from the fact that the range of bib shorts is intrinsically tied to the existing fi'zi:k saddle range, and the pioneering 'Spine Concept'. The fizik Spine Concept is at the heart of the science of personalisation that the brand is based on: dividing riders into three categories (Snakes, Chameleons and Bulls), based on their level of spinal flexibility and pelvic rotation. Snakes, being the most flexible, demand a longer narrower saddle that supports their pelvis when their back is arched over in a racing tuck. Bulls, the least flexible, demand support for their seat bones whilst they are in a more upright position on the saddle. Chameleons are the mid-way category, demanding a mixture of both attributes. Fi'zi:k has considered ...

Sportful have always been innovators. Pioneers in new fabrics, and design concepts. The Sportful R&D Strato Long Sleeve Top demonstrates this strength perfectly. Designed for the transition seasons, and milder winter days, the Sportful Strato top is a long sleeved thermal jersey, with an integrated windproof gilet. The design is made to protect your core from windchill, without adding the bulk of multiple clothing layers. It is a simple concept, but Sportful have executed it brilliantly. The jersey material is warm, yet highly breathable. The windproof material used in the gilet is super-light, but very protective. The result, is a top which feels like a long sleeved jersey in terms of fit and weight, but has noticeably more protection for your front facing core and shoulders. For added versatility, the level of thermal retention provided by the windproof fabric can be regulated using the zipper vents on the chest. Opening these up allows for air to flow through the jacket,...

My Eastway Emitter R0 is a truly custom build. At the start of 2016, we decided to do something a bit different with Team Wiggle bikes; rather than have identical loan bikes for the year, we would each have a frameset, and be responsible for building it up ourselves. The idea allowed us to choose parts that truly fitted our style of riding, and that were optimal for purpose. My Eastway Emitter is built up for endurance road riding, and has a distinctly Italian theme. The build kit features a Campagnolo Record mechanical groupset; as well as Campagnolo Zonda 2-way Fit wheels, fitted with Hutchinson tubeless road tyres (Read my blog on ' Going Tubeless on Road Tyres '). The finishing kit comes from fi'zi:k; whilst accessories come from LifeLine, Scicon Bags and Bar Fly. It might not be the lightest or most high-tech build, but it is comfortable and reliable. You need good reliable kit when you're riding  200 mile unsupported missions , and travelling abroad for ...