News

E-bikes for older riders: Safe, simple and a joy to ride

April 23, 2025

For many of us, the freedom of cycling is something we cherish - whether it’s the joy of gliding through the park or simply popping to the shops without a second thought. But if you haven't ridden for a few years, the idea of getting back on a bike can feel daunting. That’s where e-bikes come in - and why they’re opening up cycling to thousands of older riders.

e-bikes

Why aren’t factory fitted dashcams standard in all new cars?

April 23, 2025

Imagine a cheap technology that can help prove your innocence in a collision, protect you from insurance fraud, and encourage safer driving - and yet it’s still not fitted as standard in most new cars. Welcome to the curious case of the dashcam.

Driving

Plystream: A DIY caravan that's perfect for a European jaunt

April 22, 2025

It’s often said we’re a nation of makers, but somewhere along the way – as flat-pack furniture replaced timber and glue, and holidays became more package than pilgrimage – we lost the knack. Enter Woodenwidget, a small company with a big idea: Get more people building things. Their latest creation is the Plystream, a self-build two-berth plywood caravan that weighs in at just 300kg and can be towed by even the dinkiest car.

Driving

Merino wool: Stay one step ahead of UK weather

April 10, 2025

If you’ve ever set off on a spring bike ride in blazing sunshine, only to finish under leaden skies and a smattering of hail, you’ll know that dressing for British weather in April is an art form. Enter the humble but heroic base layer. And not just any base layer; a merino one.

UK's most ethical insurer? ETA tops the charts again

April 10, 2025

When you think of ethical brands, insurance might not spring to mind. But for two decades, The Good Shopping Guide has been digging beneath glossy adverts and slogans to rate insurance providers on how they treat people and the planet.

Environment

No cargo bike? No problem

April 9, 2025

We love cargo bikes. The way they transform your life – making the school run, big shop, or impromptu picnic feel effortless. But let’s be honest: they’re not cheap. Nor are they easy to store in the kinds of homes and flats many of us live in.So, inspired by the creations of Heath Robinson, we decided to build our own cargo trailer. Our aim? To create something big enough to carry serious stuff, easy to store when not in use – and ideally, something that doesn’t scream “steal me” to opportunistic thieves. Enter the wheelie bin trailer.

Cycling

Even James May’s had enough: Cars are not for cities

April 8, 2025

Well, here’s a plot twist no one saw coming: James May – yes, that James May – has finally said what many of us have been shouting into traffic fumes for years. Cars don’t belong in cities. Not just that they’re a bit annoying, or need managing – but that, deep down, they simply don’t fit.

Driving

Why this is the perfect time to switch to a (cheap) e-bike

April 8, 2025

Spring always has a way of nudging us onto two wheels – longer days, milder mornings, and that irresistible itch to shake off winter sluggishness. But this year, there’s another reason to get pedalling: e-bikes are cheaper than ever.

e-bikes

A no-nonsense guide to UK cycling law

April 7, 2025

Cycling should be simple, joyful and safe – and knowing your rights helps. Don’t let misinformation, myths or shouty drivers knock your confidence.Welcome to the tangled world of cycling and the law in Britain. The truth is, the Highway Code isn’t always black and white – it’s more of a mash-up of hard rules and soft advice, with a side order of vague phrasing and outdated assumptions. But don’t worry – this guide is here to help. Think of it as your legal puncture repair kit

Cycling

Why must basic bicycle bells be boring?

April 2, 2025

By law, every new bicycle sold in the UK must come with a bell. But let’s be honest - how many actually stay on bikes for long? Cheap, flimsy, and aesthetically uninspiring, they’re usually very quickly removed and forgotten. Yet, a well-designed bell is not just a legal box to tick; it’s a useful tool to give pedestrians and fellow riders a polite heads-up.

Cycling