News

Quick draw waterproof trousers to beat the wet weather commute

November 3, 2016

A new design of breathable, waterproof trousers that can be zipped quickly into place over other clothing in less than 15 seconds promises to be a better safeguard against the British climate than trusting the weather forecast. The Vear waterproof trousers should allow the British cycle commuter to take an unexpected shower in their stride...

Cycling

Cycling without Age

November 3, 2016

Like so many of the best cycling ideas, Cycling Without Age was started in Copenhagen. Ole Kassow wanted to help older folk enjoy the freedoms of cycling so he started using rickshaws to offer free rides to the residents of his local nursing home. The municipality of Copenhagen recognised the strength of the idea and helped buy 5 rickshaws,...

Cycling

Dub Box: A cheap and reliable VW camper

November 2, 2016

If you dream of owning a classic VW camper, but fear the nightmare of high retail prices and frequent repair costs, how about a Dub Box – a small fibreglass caravan with the same vintage looks as the iconic Volkswagen. The smallest version of this pretty caravan, and arguably the best suited to narrow British streets, is called Dinky Dub....

Driving

VoyageVert: Swap flying for sailing the Atlantic

November 1, 2016

Long distance travellers should have an environmentally friendly alternative to flying, according to VoyageVert, the pioneers behind a new breed of fast passenger ships for sailing the Atlantic and beyond. Long haul flights account for 750 million tons of CO2 emitted into our atmosphere each year and there is currently no practical...

Air Travel

PodRide: The car so safe children can drive it

November 1, 2016

If you're itching to get behind the wheel, but not old enough for a full driving license, take a look at the PodRide - a four-wheeled electric cycle with full fabric bodywork to keep you dry and warm in all weathers. The 250W motor has a top speed limited to 25 km/h, which means the PodRide is classed as a bicycle and can be operated on...

Cycling

Ultimate Halloween bike 2016

October 28, 2016

Should this Halloween herald a full-blown zombie apocalypse, remember to avoid cars as they attract attention and rely on expensive petrol. Instead, try a bicycle as it doesn't rely on oil, keeps you in good shape and is stealthy (it's a well-known fact that zombies are attracted by noise). Actually, this doesn't just apply to a zombie...

Cycling

Haunted helmets for Halloween

October 28, 2016

Why do cycle helmets look boring? Most countries allow cyclists to decide for themselves whether or not to wear protective headgear, but there is very little choice when it comes to design. For the most part, an air vent or extended peak passes for innovation. Halloween is a perfect excuse to consider something a little more flamboyant....

Cycling

Folding cycle helmets: Far from an open and shut case

October 26, 2016

The scientific case for cycle helmets remains unproven, but the appetite for new designs remains undiminished - a fact borne out by the success of a new folding design called the FEND. Folding cycle helmets To those who choose to wear head protection, FEND folding cycle helmets offer a few advantages over a conventional lid. Its design...

Cycling

This bicycle light is a belter

October 25, 2016

The Aura Belt bicycle light is the perfect way to mark the end of British Summer Time this weekend. The Aura is a nylon webbing belt with a flexible LED and fibre optic lighting system embedded within. It can be set to emit a constant glow, slow pulse or a strobing flash. An...

Cycling

All-wheel drive bicycles conquer winter

October 25, 2016

For most of us, preparation for winter riding means a set of mudguards, but for Kate Leeming, it involves commissioning all-wheel drive bicycles capable of tackling the wilds of Antarctica. Kate aims to make the first bicycle crossing of the Antarctic continent via the South Pole - a task that requires as much technical assistance as she...

Cycling