Buyer's Guides

How to teach your child to rideWe strongly believe that bike fit is the most important aspect of a kids’ bike. This is why we have a large range of bike and wheel sizes and why we always recommend visiting your local bike shop to make sure that you’re getting the best fitting bike for your child as possible.What’s the most important thing about learning to ride a bike?  It’s confidence. Your child needs to be comfortable on the bike, with the confidence to set off, needs to know that they can slow down (and stop if they want) and they need the faith that the bike will go where they want it to go. All of the other stuff – like pedaling and gears – can all come later. And you, as a parent, need the confidence that their bike is a good fit for them, that it’s easy enough to steer and slow down and that it’s going to be light and durable enough for the fun (but steep!) learning curve of learning to ride. Signs your child is ready to learn to rideAs a parent it can be difficult to

Why fit matters for confidenceAt Ridgeback, we strongly believe that bike fit is the most important aspect of a kids’ bike. This is why we have a large range of bike and wheel sizes and why we always recommend visiting your local bike shop to make sure that you’re getting the best fitting bike for your child as possible. If you don’t think that bike fit is important, just try this experiment. If you’re reading this on a phone, just hold it at arm’s length and continue reading (or push your laptop to the far side of the dining table). Yes, it’s still possible to read, but it’s not easy, is it? And if your phone is at arm’s length, it gets tiring pretty quick, doesn’t it? Now imagine that you’re a beginner rider and that’s how far away the handlebars are.Why does bike fit matter for children?A lightweight kids bike is a bicycle designed to reduce overall weight so children can pedal, steer and control the bike more easily. Most quality lightweight children's bikes use aluminium frames,

What is Radial Tyre Technology? Introducing the Nutrak x Vee Tyre RAD CORE RangeMountain bike tyres have evolved dramatically over the past decade. Compounds have become grippier, casings have become stronger and tread patterns have become increasingly specialised for every trail condition imaginable. But one area of tyre design has remained largely unchanged: the way the tyre casing itself is constructed. That's where RAD CORE technology comes in. Developed through a collaboration between Nutrak and Vee Tyre Co., the new RAD CORE range introduces radial tyre construction to mountain biking, delivering increased grip, improved comfort and reduced rolling resistance without compromising durability.So, what is a radial tyre? Most mountain bike tyres use what's known as a bias-ply construction. In a traditional tyre, the casing threads run diagonally across the tyre from bead to bead, creating a structure that's strong and supportive but relatively stiff. RAD CORE takes a different approach.

Why Your Child’s First Bike Should Come From a Local Bike Shop. Not a Supermarket Aisle.There’s a reason you won’t find Ridgeback Kids bikes stacked beside garden furniture or boxed up next to kettles and car seats. Because kids’ bikes aren’t just another retail product. A child’s first bike is confidence. Freedom. Independence. The beginning of a lifelong relationship with cycling. And getting that experience right takes more than clicking “add to basket” or wheeling a box through a car park. That’s why local bike shops still matter. And it’s exactly why freewheel.co.uk continues to support independent retailers instead of chasing shelf space in mainstream chains like Argos.The Difference Between Selling Bikes and Knowing Bikes At first glance, a bike might look simple. But choosing the right children’s bike involves far more than age recommendations printed on a cardboard box. The correct bike should match your child’s size, confidence level and riding ability. Too often, bikes bought

There’s something about packing the bikes before a UK getaway that changes the whole mood of a holiday. Suddenly, it’s not just a weekend away in Cornwall, the Lake District or the New Forest. It’s early-morning café rides. Forest trails with the kids. Ice cream stops you didn’t plan for. Tiny villages you’d never discover from the car. A cycling staycation turns the journey into part of the adventure - and with the right kit, bringing your bikes along is easier than ever. Whether you’re planning family bike rides by the coast, gravel adventures in the countryside or canalside cruising with little ones in tow, here’s everything you need to make your next UK cycling holiday unforgettable.First Stop: Getting Your Bike There SecurelyThe best cycling staycations start before you even arrive. A reliable bike carrier means less stress, less wobbling around at motorway services and more confidence when travelling with the whole family’s bikes. For bigger adventures (and bigger bike collections),

Ditch Rising Fuel Costs: Why More People Are Turning to Local CyclingHow Your Local Bike Shop Can Help You Save Money, Ride More, and Depend Less on the Car. Fuel prices continue to hit hard across the UK. From the school run to short trips into town, many everyday journeys that once felt routine are becoming increasingly expensive and for a lot of families, the cost of relying on the car is adding up. That’s why more people are rediscovering something simple: cycling makes sense. For shorter journeys, bikes can often be quicker than sitting in traffic, cheaper than filling up the tank, and far less stressful than searching for parking. Whether it’s commuting to work, riding to school, or replacing quick local car trips, cycling offers a practical way to cut everyday costs without sacrificing convenience. But making that switch starts locally. Your local bike shop plays a vital role in helping people ride with confidence, offering expert advice, professional bike fitting, servicing and

Genesis Announces New Croix de Fer, Vagabond and Tour de Fer ModelsGenesis is excited to announce the launch of five updated models and one new frameset across three of its most celebrated platforms, the Croix de Fer, Vagabond and Tour de Fer. The iconic Croix de Fer range continues to evolve, with the Croix de Fer 10, 20 and 30 receiving fresh new paint jobs alongside a number of specification updates. Building on the revised frame platform introduced in 2024, these updates further refine a bike has become a benchmark for versatility and gravel capability. A true modern classic, the latest Croix de Fer models combine proven performance with a bold, updated look. The Vagabond 10 also returns with a striking new colour and updated specification, reinforcing its reputation as a tough, adaptable steel hardtail built for big adventures. Joining it is a stunning new Vagabond frameset, offering riders and retailers the freedom to create a custom build around of Genesis’ most characterful

Best E-Bikes: Finding the Right Electric Bike for YouIf you’re searching for the best e-bikes, the answer isn’t one single model - it’s the bike that best matches how and where you ride. Whether you’re popping for a weekend spin, or using it for your daily commute, our electric bikes are purpose-built for very different disciplines. Our range covers three key categories: Leisure & Commute, Cargo, and Mountain Bikes. Here’s what sets them apart, and what to look for when choosing the best e-bike for you.Leisure & Commute E-BikesIf your riding is mainly getting from A to B, replacing car journeys or enjoying steady weekend miles, this is where most people start. Leisure and commuter e-bikes are built around comfort and practicality. You’ll usually find an upright riding position, stable handling and useful features like mudguards, pannier racks and integrated lights. Many models also offer step-through frames, which make hopping on and off easy - especially useful in stop-start traffic.

A Simple Guide To MIKWhat Is MIK?If you’ve been looking at new bike bags or baskets recently, you’ve probably come across something called MIK. It stands for Mounting Is Key. In simple terms, MIK is a click-on system that lets you attach and remove bike accessories in seconds. No bungee cords, no awkward straps, no fiddling around. Just click it on, ride off, and unclip it when you’re done. It was developed by Dutch cycling brand Basil and has since been adopted by lots of other bike and accessory brands, which means it’s become a widely compatible system rather than something tied to just one manufacturer.So, What Does MIK Do?MIK is a universal mounting system designed for luggage racks. It allows you to securely attach things like pannier bags, baskets, crates, pet carriers and child seats (with the HD version).  The main benefit? You can swap accessories in seconds. Use a basket for a quick food shop, switch to a pannier for commuting, or remove everything entirely for a lighter

The Evolution of Eyewear TechnologyModern performance eyewear is about so much more than style – it’s about smart design and cutting-edge technology that adapts to every condition, rider, angler and adventure. Whether you’re cycling at dawn, casting lines under bright midday sun, or exploring trails in unpredictable weather, our eyewear is built to enhance both your vision and your lifestyle performance wherever the day takes you. Here’s a rundown of the tech that makes modern eyewear awesome - and why it might influence what you pick next.Interchangeable Lenses: One Frame, Endless PossibilitiesImagine having a pair of glasses that can keep up with any weather or light condition. That’s the magic of interchangeable lenses. Sunny? Swap in a dark lens. Overcast? Switch to a brighter one. It’s fast, easy and way more versatile than juggling multiple pairs. If you like flexibility, this is a game-changer. Our pick: - Codebreaker - RX Insert Compatibility: Perfect for Prescription Wearers

Introducing the Vittoria Terreno PRO Gravel Range — Naturally Fast, Unstoppably AdvancedAt Freewheel, we love when performance and sustainability come together — and Vittoria’s latest release does exactly that. The new Terreno PRO Gravel Range is the most anticipated Vittoria launch in over a decade, and it’s already making waves across the cycling world. Designed for riders who want race-ready speed and durability without compromising the planet, the Terreno PRO sets a new benchmark for what a modern gravel tyre can be. Faster. Grippier. Tougher. Smoother. Compared to the already impressive Terreno Endurance series, the new PRO level construction offers: 5% faster  19% more grip 18% more puncture resistance and an even more comfortable ride From racing to adventure rides, Terreno PRO is built to perform in every condition. It’s no surprise that top riders like Tom Pidcock, Alison Jackson, and Lachlan Morton have already been spotted riding them this season. Now, you can too available

PACE vs NOMAD vs APEXLooking for the perfect COROS watch? We break down the Pace Pro, Nomad, and Apex 4 to help you find the best GPS watch for your running, hiking, or multisport adventures.Pace Pro – Premium running focusBest ForRunners who care about screen and running features, who don’t necessarily need ultra-rugged build or extreme battery/endurance modes.Highlights- The Pace Pro features a 1.3-inch AMOLED display with very high brightness - among the brightest in the category - It supports offline maps and advanced GPS/running metrics - Training features include:      - Effort pace - A personalised metric that represents true effort when running      - EvoLab - Recovery, fatigue, training load, race predictor, VO2 max, threshold zones and more      - Activity alerts - For cadence, distance, pace, heart rate, power and even moreNomad – Rugged adventure & outdoor focusBest ForOutdoor enthusiasts: hikers, trail runners, mountain bikers. Best for people who want offline

Genesis introduces new CDA Junior alongside refreshed CDA 10 and 20 modelsBritish adventure brand Genesis has expanded its lineup with three new models, including the all-new CDA Junior.  The CDA range is designed for riders seeking a versatile and affordable bike that’s equally at home on the daily commute or light gravel trails. The updated line-up now includes the CDA 10, CDA 20, and the all-new CDA Junior – bringing the brand’s spirit of adventure to riders of all ages. Starting with the CDA Junior, this scaled down model is light, tough, easy to maintain and designed to inspire confidence on roads, trails, and towpaths. Genesis has worked hard to create a bike that will cater for the greatest range of heights from one platform. Designed for riders between 140 and 157 centimetres tall, the CDA Junior is built to inspire young cyclists to explore further. Perfect for forest trails, canal paths, and family bikepacking adventures, it features a lightweight aluminium frame and fork

Repair, Renew, Reuse with Gear AidRepair, Renew, Reuse with Gear Aid At Freewheel, we believe in making your cycling clothing and equipment last longer. That’s why we’re proud to offer Gear Aid — the go-to brand for Gore-Tex repair, clothing repair patches, and outdoor gear care. Instead of throwing away your favourite jacket or trousers if they get damaged, Gear Aid repair products help you bring them back to life. Whether you’re fixing a rip in your Gore-Tex jacket, sealing a leaky tent seam, or patching up cycling gear, Gear Aid makes it quick and easy to get back outside.Can You Repair Gore-Tex? Yes — with Gear Aid Wondering can you repair Gore-Tex? Absolutely. Gear Aid’s Tenacious Tape and Gore-Tex Repair Patches are designed to permanently fix rips, tears, and holes in waterproof jackets, trousers, and outdoor gear — without affecting breathability or performance. Just peel, stick, and press for a long-lasting waterproof repair that keeps you dry on every adventure.Why Choose Gear

The Ultimate Guide to MudguardsMudguards are a must-have for autumn cycling, and both MPart and Crud offer some of the best on the market. Designed to keep water, mud, and debris off your bike and yourself, these mudguards provide full coverage, easy installation, and durable protection. Whether you’re commuting through rainy streets or tackling muddy trails, Crud and MPart mudguards help you ride cleaner, longer, and with less hassle.Why Mudguards Matter in Autumn  Mudguards aren’t just a luxury; they’re essential for autumn cycling. Without them: - Water and mud splash onto your back and legs - Your drivetrain and brakes get clogged with grit, accelerating wear - Your bike frame and components become dirtier, requiring more frequent maintenance With the right mudguards, you can ride longer, cleaner, and with less post-ride hassle.Why Choose MPart Mudguards  MPart offers a range of durable, easy-to-fit mudguards that perform in all wet-weather conditions: - Versatile Fit: Designed

Autumn Bike Lube Guide: Keep Your Drivetrain Running Smooth in Wet, Muddy Conditions As the clocks go back and the rain sets in, autumn cycling brings its own set of challenges. Wet roads, muddy trails, and swirling leaves might make for scenic rides, but they’re hard on your bike - especially the drivetrain. Your chain, cassette, and derailleurs bear the brunt of the weather, and without the right lubrication, you’ll be facing noisy gears, rust, and premature wear in no time. The good news? A simple autumn bike lube routine keeps your ride smooth, quiet, and efficient no matter how filthy the conditions get.Why Lube Matters More in Autumn  Autumn means wetter roads and more grime, and that combination works like sandpaper on your chain if it’s not properly protected. Lube creates a barrier against water, dirt, and corrosion, keeping your chain moving freely and extending the life of your components. A well-lubed chain: - Reduces wear and tear on expensive parts like cassettes and

The Best Autumn Cleaning Products for Wet and Muddy RidesAutumn riding can be glorious, but the wet, muddy conditions can take a toll on your bike. Grit, grime, and road spray don’t just make your bike look a mess; they can shorten the life of your components if left unchecked. That’s where the right cleaning products come in. Here’s how Gtechniq, Finish Line, and White Lightning can help you keep your bike in top condition as the days get wetter and darker.Gtechniq: Pro-Level Bike Care for Every Ride  Known for its car care expertise, Gtechniq brings the same advanced technology to cycling with a range of products that clean, protect, and maintain your bike like a pro. - Bike Cleaners: Gtechniq’s Bike Wash cuts through mud and grime without harming paint or finishes - Protective Coatings: The Bike Ceramic offers long-lasting protection, making your bike easier to clean next time - Finishing Touches: Products like Ceramic Quick Coat keep your ride looking sharp through the toughest

Understanding VLT and Lens Categories in Sunglasses: A Complete GuideIf you’ve ever shopped for sunglasses, you’ve probably come across terms like VLT and Lens Category on product descriptions. They might sound technical, but understanding them can help you choose the right sunglasses for your needs - whether that’s cycling, fishing, hiking, or everyday wear. In this guide, we’ll break down what VLT and lens categories actually mean, why they matter, and how to pick the right ones for your ride.What is VLT?  VLT stands for Visible Light Transmission. It’s the percentage of light that passes through the lens and reaches your eyes. - High VLT = More light passes through → Lenses appear lighter → Better for low-light or cloudy conditions - Low VLT = Less light passes through → Lenses appear darker → Better for bright, sunny conditions In short: The lower the VLT, the darker the lens.Lens Categories Explained  Lens categories are a standardised way of grouping lenses based on how much

Don’t Get Left in the Dark: Why Autumn Rides Need Bike LightsAs the glow of autumn sets in, bike rides start looking a little different. The evenings creep in earlier, the mornings stay darker for longer, and that summer sun we all took for granted suddenly seems like a distant memory. For cyclists, this shift marks one important change: it’s time to make bike lights your new best friend.See and Be Seen  When the days get shorter, visibility becomes key. It’s not just about lighting your way forward; it’s about making sure others can see you too. A good set of bike lights keeps you safe by: - Illuminating your route so you can spot potholes, puddles, or fallen leaves before they catch you off guard - Alerting drivers, pedestrians, and other riders to your presence, especially in low light or gloomy weather conditions Think of your bike lights as an extension of your high-vis clothing - essential for staying visible on the road.Choosing the Right Lights  The world of bike lights can

Croix de Fer 931 Bike CheckSingletrack Mag Editor and all-round cycling legend, Chipps Chippendale recently made the switch to the updated Genesis Croix de Fer 931. Having ridden everything from the singlespeed Day One to a titanium Croix de Fer, Chipps was curious to try the updated Croix de Fer 931 frameset. After six months of hard use, here’s what he had to say: “I’ve been impressed at how versatile the Croix de Fer 931 has been. The Croix de Fer 931 is a bike that looks like Ti, but with the ride of steel, a massively versatile build-up range and a chirpy ride that encourages some big days out.” Chipps customised his Croix de Fer 931 with the Di2 2x12 GRX semi-wireless groupset, DT Swiss DiCut 1400 wheels, and enough bosses for bottles, bags and bikepacking adventures. Six months in, it’s handled everything from 100km road rides to overnight mountain-pass missions and even a bit of mellow MTB. As Chipps puts it, "It’s been mighty capable so far."  For Chipp's full Singletrack review,

Polly Clark, known on Instagram as @mountainyogabreaks, is a passionate mountain bike guide with a unique twist — she combines the thrill of two wheels with the grounding energy of yoga and mindfulness in the wild. Based in mid-Wales,

Ready to Roll Into a New School Year?A new school year isn’t just about fresh stationery and clean exercise books — it’s about getting your daily routine sorted and starting as you mean to go on. And if you’d rather avoid packed buses or sitting in traffic, there’s no better way to get to lessons, lectures, or training than by bike. This season, we’ve teamed up with Basil to bring you a back-to-school collection that’s as practical as it is stylish. Whether you’re cycling to college, heading into town, or making the daily trip to school, these baskets and bags are built to handle whatever the day throws at you.  Why Basil? Style Meets StrengthBasil has a reputation for blending Dutch cycling heritage with clever, modern design — perfect for UK riders who need kit that looks good and lasts. Here’s what you can expect: Hard-wearing materials that stand up to daily use in all weathers. Practical features like quick-release fittings and wipe-clean finishes. Stylish designs that make your

The Vittoria Gravel Terrain Score helps you find the perfect tyre.From smooth hardpack to loose, technical trails, Vittoria’s new Terreno T Series is built to match every kind of gravel ride. With models ranging from T10 to T90, each tyre is precision-designed for a specific terrain type, so you can ride with confidence wherever the route takes you. Need help choosing the perfect tyre? That's where Vittoria’s Gravel Terrain Score tool makes it easy to pick the right tyre for your terrain and riding style. And now, the range gets even better:Terreno T50 £54.99 One tyre. Any terrain. All day. Positioned between the Terreno Dry and Mezcal, the T50 offers riders the flexibility to tackle everything from hardpack to mixed conditions.Terreno T60 £54.99 When conditions get rough, this tyre gets going. Designed for aggressive, ever-changing surfaces, the T60 brings confident control to unpredictable terrain.Both tyres feature: Endurance Formulation powered by Graphene - Dependability,

Madison Bags launch affordable cycle bag range for commuters and adventurers alike.Madison is pleased to share its latest range of cycle bags, designed for everyday riders and weekend explorers. The updated range covers panniers and saddle bags to rack top and handlebar bags, every product in the Madison range is built with smart, practical design to keep your essentials protected no matter the weather or terrain.The Madison bag range features waterproof bike luggage which is engineered for riders demanding durability, capacity, and style. The 30L Stellar-Tech Pannier offers a reflective finish for visibility, while the standard 30L Pannier keeps things discreet. A 25L Rack Top Bag, 3L Handlebar Bag, Top Tube Bag (1L), and Saddle Bags (0.5L/0.7L/1L) deliver IPX6-rated waterproof protection across all rides. For post-ride clean-up, the 60L DTE Dirty Secret Kit Bag keeps wet or smelly gear contained. Engineered for seamless journeys, the bags feature roll-top closures, welded seams, and

What Are the Differences Between Types of Turbo Trainers?If you’ve ever thought about riding indoors - whether to dodge the winter weather or just to squeeze in a quick spin - chances are you’ve looked into turbo trainers. But with so many types out there, knowing which one to go for can be a bit of a minefield. So, what are the actual differences between types of trainers? And how do you know which one suits your style of riding? Let’s break it down.The Three Main Types of Turbo Trainer (and What Makes Them Different)1. Basic TrainersThese are your entry-level, no-frills option. You pop your rear wheel onto the trainer, clip in, and ride. Resistance is either magnetic or fluid-based, and you change the effort level using your gears - just like you would on the road. They’re simple, solid, and great for riders who just want to get the legs turning indoors without fuss. Why choose one? - They’re budget-friendly - Setup is quick and easy - Great for steady rides or intervals Elite Pick: