Australia, with its vast landscapes, stunning coastlines, and vibrant cities, is a paradise for cyclists.
From the rugged Outback to the urban streets of Melbourne, biking offers a unique way to experience the diverse beauty of this continent. In this article, we’ll delve into the joys of renting a bike in Australia and the convenience of opting for a folding bike in Victoria.
Renting a Bike in Australia:
Australia’s cities are renowned for their bike-friendly infrastructure, making it easy for both locals and tourists to explore on two wheels. Whether you’re in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, or Perth, bike rental services abound, catering to riders of all ages and experience levels.
bicycle rentals victoria
One of the best ways to soak in the sights and sounds of Australia is by pedaling along its picturesque coastal paths. In Sydney, for example, you can rent a bike near the iconic Opera House and cycle across the Sydney Harbour Bridge, taking in panoramic views of the harbor and skyline.
Similarly, in Brisbane, you can cruise along the Brisbane River, stopping to admire the city’s botanical gardens and riverside cafes.
For those seeking more adventurous terrain, Australia offers a plethora of mountain biking trails that wind through lush rainforests, rugged bushland, and even desert landscapes. Places like Cairns, with its world-class mountain biking trails in the surrounding rainforest, attract adrenaline junkies from around the globe.
Renting a Folding Bike in Victoria:
Now, let’s zoom in on Victoria, one of Australia’s most bike-friendly states, and explore the convenience of renting a folding bike.
Victoria, with its mix of bustling urban centers and tranquil countryside, is an ideal destination for cyclists seeking both city exploration and nature escapes.
Folding bikes, with their compact design and easy portability, are particularly well-suited for navigating Victoria’s cities, where space can be limited, and public transportation is widely used. In Melbourne, for instance, you can rent a folding bike and explore the city’s iconic laneways, hidden cafes, and vibrant street art scene with ease.
When it’s time to hop on a tram or train, simply fold up your bike and carry it along – no need to worry about bike racks or storage.
Beyond the city limits, Victoria boasts an extensive network of cycling trails that wind through scenic countryside, coastal routes, and wine regions. With a folding bike, you can easily hop on and off public transport to access these trails, allowing for seamless exploration of Victoria’s diverse landscapes.
Imagine cycling through the rolling hills of the Yarra Valley, stopping at cellar doors to sample world-class wines, all with your trusty folding bike by your side.
Conclusion:
Whether you’re exploring the urban streets of Melbourne or venturing into the wilds of the Australian Outback, renting a bike offers a unique and immersive way to experience all that Australia has to offer. And in Victoria, the convenience of a folding bike opens up a world of possibilities, allowing you to explore city streets, scenic trails, and everything in between with ease.
So, grab a helmet, saddle up, and pedal your way through the land Down Under – adventure awaits!
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Dahon’s been making folding bicycles for more than 30 years, and the current crop shows it. We’ve fooled around on various models over the years, mainly at trade shows, but having had the Formula S18 in the stable for the past ten months or so has given us a new appreciation for folders.
Fair warning: This model’s not in the MY2014 lineup, but you’ll find a similar frame on the Speed series bikes, or a curvier version in the Vector P20, which is it’s closest sibling. The only downside is there’s not currently a similarly priced disc brake-equipped model taking its place. The upside? Some dealers still have stock of this one and prices are likely around $1,200 or less, which is a bargain for this bike.
Even with just 20″ wheels, this thing can hammer. It can also roll along peacefully. And it fits a wide range of people – we put Evan (5’4″ on a good day), Kristi (5’7″) and myself (6’2″) on it with ease. We also let plenty of other friends ride it, and they all had a smile on their face. We even managed to crash head over handlebars. Twice. And the bike’s still rockin’…
The bike’s equipped with an 18-speed Shimano drivetrain (Tiagra derailleurs), Microshift trigger shifters and their own CNC’d cranks that mount the same as Shimano parts.
The whole thing folds down in as little as 15 seconds. My best times were more like 25-30 seconds, but it can be done quicker. Small, powerful magnets near the axles connect when folded and hold it together. The pedals fold in to further minimize its footprint. This thing could fit most desks with ease, and I was able to fit it inside the Thule rooftop cargo box I reviewed. Weight is around 26lbs, which is easy enough to take up a few flights of stairs.
Avid mechanical disc brakes proved perfect. Plenty of stopping power and modulation and no worries about keeping things lined up at the rims when folding it over and over again. The handlebar’s easily rotated thanks to a quick release at the top of the stem, and the entire steering column telescopes to allow a massive range of adjustment. To fold it, simply drop it all the way down and undo the base so it folds toward the fork. You do need to make sure the telescoping clamp is tight before you head off, or your steering may not be 100%.
Internal headset gives it a clean look. This sort of detail is all over Dahon’s line, as is generally good, name-brand spec where it counts. This one’s got WTB rims, Schwalbe tires and Kore post and saddle.
Standard drivetrain parts means repairs and replacements are easy to find. That makes them great travel bikes.
All of the folding mechanisms have safety catches so they can’t just release mid-ride. And the main pivot’s internal hardware is adjustable to take up any slack that may accrue over time. We never had to fiddle with it.
On the road, it’s a blast. That is to say, it’s as much fun to ride as any other commuter, and just about as quick. One-handed operation is a little squirrelly, as much because of the smaller wheels as the very narrow handlebar, but with both hands on deck, it’s easy to control.
The standard drivetrain meant I could hum along at normal speeds, and whether seated or standing to beat a yellow light, it was stiff and creak free over the course of the test. It did feel a little weird rocking it back and forth when cranking, but it never acted weird. In other words, it’s surprisingly stiff considering all the joints.
The small size makes it easy to maneuver around the city. And it holds a line just fine on the open road.
For a commuter, it seems to make quick trips even quicker and easier. And Dahon sells racks and other accessories to help you haul more of a load.
There’s a lot we like about the Formula S18. So much so that we wish we could hang on to it. It takes up almost no space but is ready for action anytime. In fact, the only thing we don’t like is that they stopped making this model.
Like it? Check out some of the more interesting 2014 models here and here.
SHENZHEN, China, Aug. 6, 2023 /CNW/ — For over four decades, folding bike pioneer DAHON has always been at the forefront of technological innovation. Its high-quality folding bikes are at the heart and mind of bike riders around the world.
To find out which folding bike does it all the best for most commuter riders and utilitarian users, the New York Times has conducted a survey on 13 popular models from 9 manufacturers, with 85+ hours of research and rigorous testing on the aspects of user experience, comfort of riding, ease of folding, and bike weight.
At last, the well-designed DAHON Mariner D8 stood out with all those aspects, combining good riding experience, high-quality components, and a reasonable price, topping the chart of “New York Times’ Best Folding Bikes”.
The design inspiration of DAHON Mariner D8 originates from the sailing concept. The super anti-rust surface of its parts is suitable for high-salt and high-humidity environments. Marine D8 can be stored on board a yacht or a boat for a long time before the rider goes for a comfortable ride on the island.
Upon folding, Mariner D8 can be stored in the trunk of a car or a recreation vehicle. Whether carrying on the bus or in the subway, commuters can easily carry it around in the hustle and bustle of the city. Mariner D8 can easily meet the travel needs of cyclists. It can be described as an “all-rounded chariot”.
The New York Times notes that “the Mariner D8 rides comfortably, smoothing over bumps and shifting fluidly up and down hills; it folds and unfolds quickly and locks securely in both modes; the design also addresses practical concerns”. It comes with fenders to keep mud from splashing in the rain; the front bag can be installed on the frame, and the rear frame can carry and hang items.
Well-known bicycle magazines such as Canadian Cycling Magazine and Momentum Mag coined DAHON Mariner D8 as the best choice for green commuting and leisure travel.
“Good value for money with perfect craft design” is the true feeling of most riders who have experienced DAHON folding bikes.
To make the single-beam folding bike stronger, more stable and faster, the Founder and CEO Dr. David Hon led the R&D team on a rigorous research to develop a patent of “Folding Bike Frame with Reinforced Cable at the Down Tube”, giving birth to the DELTEC cable nowadays.
With DELTEC cable installed on a single-beam folding bike, a stable triangular structure is formed at the frame, which greatly increases the service life and load capacity of the overall frame structure. At the same time, the longitudinal rigidity of the whole vehicle is increased by 15%-35%, and the force of pedaling is effectively converted into propulsion, reducing energy loss and being faster than other vehicles.
Story continues
In the future, DAHON will continue to innovate folding bikes‘ design and actively promote green and environmentally friendly lifestyle.
For more information, please visit: www.dahon.com
tina@dahon.com
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Brompton Bicycle, the London-based manufacturer of the world’s most iconic folding bike, has announced a “strategic partnership” with Halfords, a British chain-store group that sells bikes and automotive parts. The move has been slammed by bike shop stockists of the brand who fear being sidelined.
A statement from Brompton said the deal with Halfords would provide a “real opportunity to convert commuters and motorists, as well as those who’ve not ridden in years, to switch to pedal power in cities.”
The 125-year-old Halfords has more than 450 stores in the UK and also operates 21 Cycle Republic stores, the group’s own-brand bikes-only stores. The group also owns two Tredz stores, which were formerly independent bicycle dealers (IBDs) with strong internet sales.
Brompton bikes will be first available in Cycle Republic stores, with a broader roll-out in a select number of Halfords stores in April next year. The brand’s new e-bike and special-edition bikes will not be made available to Halfords initially.
Brompton CEO Will Butler-Adams told Forbes.com: “We’ve had challenging times with our IBD network over the past nine months. Some have gone bust, others have had financial problems – it has been a hard market.”
He added: “The way people shop now is different – it’s omnichannel, and the consumer’s journey to buying a product has changed. We passionately believe that more people should be out there riding, but we often struggle to engage with people who can ride but who don’t own bikes. Halfords offers us a route to that customer.”
Butler-Adams admitted that being stocked in Halfords would be a “risk,” but he felt there was “an opportunity to increase sales of Brompton bikes via bike shops because of being stocked in Halfords. The people who shop in Halfords own cars and caravans and we need to be reaching those people. Halfords has tremendous reach.”
He stressed: “We have not rushed into this. This is a long-term thing, and it should be a net positive for all concerned.”
Butler-Adams said that IBD owners also gave him a tough time when Brompton said it would open own-brand flagship stores – there are now Brompton Junction stores in London, Beijing, Tokyo, Milan, Shanghai, Amsterdam and five other cities – but that “no IBDs lost sales to Junction stores, and everybody is doing better because of them now.”
Brompton bikes will be available in Halfords from April 2019
Brompton Bicycle
Brompton sells to 1,500 bike stores worldwide, most of which are IBDs. Its biggest corporate account is with the UK’s Evans Cycles, an IBD-style chain store which is currently in financial difficulties and could be sold to a rival soon.
Forbes.com contacted Brompton stockists for this story, but none would go on record. “We really have much too much to lose,” said one.
“I am unhappy with this announcement,” said one dealer. “I get the sense that there are new, big corporate retail types on the [company’s] board who are driving this agenda. People will get lousy service from [Halfords] and then come back to us.”
However, he feared an immediate loss of sales, and was most worried that Tredz would “start discounting for some reason or other.”
The dealer said for Brompton to go to market via Halfords was a “sign of weakness” and “perhaps they are struggling and hoping that these larger, more mainstream channels might boost sales.”
He added: “It’s pretty sad. It was an endorsement from [independent bicycle dealers] that got them where they are today in terms of market share.”
Ben Cooper, owner of Kinetics, a Glasgow bike shop which services and modifies Brompton bikes, asked: “I wonder if Halfords will really want to invest in the staff training to sell and repair Brompton bikes properly? Evans’ current difficulties might also play a part – Brompton has been stung before with having all their eggs in one basket.”
Brompton makes 48,000 bikes a year, 75% of which are exported.
33% of Halfords Group sales are cycling related. The group – which employs 10,000 – had sales of £1,135m in the current financial year.
If you are looking for flexibility and comfort when choosing the right bike, you might want to consider a folding bike. These are particularly interesting for commuters who want to use a combination of bike and public transport to get to work. As the two-wheelers can be shrunk down to a convenient size for transportation on trains, trains or buses, you won’t be subjected to the stern gaze of other passengers and the conductor. If you also want your journey by bike to be as relaxed as on public transport, you might want to consider a model with an integrated electric motor. In the SachsenRAD F12 test, I took a closer look at just such a bike.
Technical data
Dimensions
assembled: 1358x590x1098mm folded: 800x320x770mm
Weight
19,2kg
Permissible total weight
up to 120kg
Frame material
cast magnesium
Colors
Titanium silver, lagoon blue, space gray
Tires
16″ x 1,95″
Gear system
SingeSpeed with 3 support levels
Brakes
mechanical disc brakes front and rear
Motor
Brushless rear motor with 36V and 250W
Speed
up to 25 km/h
Battery
36V / 5.2 Ah Li-ion battery with a range of up to 50 km
Saddle
height adjustable
Kickstand
Rear kickstand made of aluminum
Suspension fork
Rigid fork
Further features
foldable, rear wheel suspension, auxiliary push wheel, magnetic holder, LCD control display, pedelec riding mode, LED front light, mudguard, StVZO approval
Price (RRP)
1.999.00 euros (at the start for 1,699.00 euros)
€ 1,699.00
€ 1,999.00
N/A
SachsenRAD F12 test: Scope of delivery and assembly
The compact shape of the packaging already makes it clear that we are in the folding bike segment here. After opening the package, in addition to the folding bike itself, you will find the appropriate charging technology, saddle and seat post, mudguards and the operating instructions.
That’s it for the scope of delivery. But that’s all you need to maneuver the SachsenRAD F12 through your city. There is a similar amount of understatement in the assembly. This is also manageable in its complexity. First you have to lift the bike out of the packaging.
If you want to protect your back, ask a second person to help you. Now you have to remove the fixing cable ties and take off the protective material. You can then enjoy your SachsenRAD F12 in half its glory. After all, it is still folded up. To unfold it, simply open the frame.
Once the two halves of the frame have been joined to form a bar, simply fold the folding bracket over and lock it in place according to the operating instructions. Next up is the stem. Fold it up and secure it with the quick release. Then mount the handlebars in the corresponding clamp. Now it’s the saddle’s turn. This is also mounted using a clamp.
Now all you have to do is fold down the pedals and connect the power cable to the motor. Finally, check that there is enough air in the tires. Now the SachsenRAD F12 is ready for its first ride. All in all, it took me just under a quarter of an hour to set it up. And that’s without the help of a second person. The manufacturer scores points here with very well illustrated and labeled assembly instructions.
SachsenRAD F12 test: design and workmanship
The SachsenRAD F12 is a very sporty folding bike. This is primarily due to its modern, sleek shape, which focuses more on straight lines than curved forms. When assembled, the folding bike measures 1358 x 590 x 1098 mm. If you fold it up for storage or to take with you on public transport, it is pleasingly compact with dimensions of 800 x 320 x 770 mm.
The frame of the F12 is made of cast magnesium. This makes a very robust impression, but also weighs quite a bit. The folding bike weighs an impressive 19.2 kg, which you wouldn’t notice at first glance. But SachsenRAD is obviously aware that this is no lightweight. That’s why the two-wheeler expert quickly placed a small roller on the underside of the frame.
This makes it easy to roll the F12 over the platform or other solid surfaces when folded. Very practical! Our test model comes in the color titanium silver. Alternatively, you can also buy it in the two other colors lagoon blue and space grey. All in all, the folding bike makes a great impression in terms of appearance and workmanship. It was not without reason that it won the IF Design Award.
Everything looks very high quality. The cast magnesium also comes into play here. After all, this ensures that there are no weld seams to be seen. In my opinion, the only thing that detracts from the otherwise rounded look is the thick cable conduit at the front. It’s a shame that SachsenRAD couldn’t find another place for it. But that’s complaining on a high level. After all, it’s not easy to stow the cables in the frame of a folding bike.
SachsenRAD F12 test: Great features
Let’s move on to the technical features. Small but powerful really does fit like a glove here. Despite its compact dimensions, the SachsenRAD F12 comes with equipment that is really impressive. At its heart is a 250 watt brushless rear motor. This accelerates the folding bike up to a maximum speed of 25 km/h.
SachsenRad specifies a maximum range of 50 km. Of course, this is not the world, but for short inner-city journeys this should be enough for most people. In the test, I was unable to achieve the maximum range of 50 km, only 30 km. Under optimal conditions, however, this can also be better. The manufacturer’s claimed range of 50 km was achieved at 20 km/h, with minimal assistance, on flat terrain, on asphalt and with a rider weight of 75 kg.
You can choose between a total of three different levels. This is done via the control unit on the left-hand side of the handlebars. This is also where the LCD control display is located. Here you can read the most important data about the current ride.
Even in direct sunlight. In addition to speed and battery capacity, the current support level is also included. The SachsenRAD F12 is a singlespeed. So you don’t get a gear shift, just one gear. In practice, this didn’t bother me any further due to the three support levels.
You also get a full range of safety features ex works. In addition to a bright front light, there is also a detachable rear light. The matching micro USB cable for charging is also included in the scope of delivery. I was completely impressed by the mechanical disc brakes in the test.
The charging port is protected from the weather by a rubber cover
These acted immediately even during sporty braking maneuvers and brought me reliably to a halt. The 16″ x 1.95″ all-round tires are also impressive. In addition to a mudguard, there is also a reliable kickstand.
SachsenRAD F12 test: Riding and operating comfort
After taking a close look at the technical features, we want to check the folding bike’s suitability for everyday use. With folding bikes, it is of course not only riding comfort that plays a major role, but also ease of use. The F12 has no front suspension, instead relying on a rigid fork. You will hardly feel this on smooth asphalt.
However, it will become noticeable at the latest when you ride over cobblestones or other rough surfaces for the first time. You should also not ride over kerbs at top speed. However, this does not mean that the bike has no suspension at all.
Thanks to the rear suspension, you can sit comfortably on the rather soft saddle at all times while riding. The saddle itself can be adjusted in height. SachsenRAD specifies a permissible total weight of 120 kg for the folding bike. You should bear in mind that this not only applies to your body weight, but possibly also to the luggage you are carrying.
The F12 doesn’t offer you any real transportation options out of the box. This is a bit of a shame, as the SachsenRAD F6 Safari(test) already has a pre-assembled luggage rack.
SachsenRAD has already sent us a picture of the practical optional luggage rack
But SachsenRAD has a solution up its sleeve. There should be an optional luggage basket that you can easily mount on the seat post. You should be able to easily store small items here.
Driving itself is a lot of fun. The motor provides plenty of thrust in everyday use. I was particularly surprised at the highest of the three support levels. If you want to get on the bus, train or tram quickly, the bike can be folded up in no time at all. This is where the patented folding technology comes into play. Thanks to a magnetic holder on the axle, you don’t have to worry about it suddenly unfolding again unintentionally during transportation.
What I didn’t like so much at first glance was the battery design. After all, I initially assumed that it was permanently installed and could not be removed from the frame. But far from it. If you don’t feel like lugging the bike into your home, you can simply remove the 5.2 Ah battery and charge it separately. Your back will thank you.
Conclusion
With the SachsenRAD F12, the Leipzig-based bicycle manufacturer has developed an exciting folding bike for commuters who want to use public transport as well as their two-wheeled companion to get to work. The bike scores points with its stylish look and great build quality. On top of that, you get a lively motor that delivers an impressive 250 watts of power and gets you from A to B at lightning speed and in comfort. A big advantage over many competitors is the lightning-fast conversion. With just a few hand movements, the bike is folded up and ready for transportation.
Thanks to the practical small transport wheel, you don’t even have to carry it. There’s actually hardly anything to complain about here. In the next version, I would just like the folding bike to have a slightly better cable management system. Some users would certainly also be pleased to see a luggage rack fitted ex works. But SachsenRAD provides a suitable solution with the optional basket. Apart from that, the F12 is a really good folding bike for anyone looking for a rideable bike for urban areas and public transport.
Design & workmanship
Assembling
Performance & features
Value for money
92/100
The SachsenRAD F12 is the almost perfect e-bike for public transport commuters.
Oyama folding bicycles are now available in the UK via distributors Moore Large & Co.
There are 11 models in the lineup, split into four ranges, and they’re priced between £299.95 and £899.95.
Adam Garner, of Moore Large, says: “Due to the increasing mobility and infrastructure problems in the United Kingdom, folding bikes are becoming much more popular.
“Commuting solutions now include driving to the edge of the city for parking and then quickly and easily stepping onto the folding bike for the last few miles.”
Look out for a test of the Oyama range on BikeRadar soon.
You can follow BikeRadar on Twitter at twitter.com/bikeradar.
Brompton Bicycles has backed a proposed new law designed to ensure only safe e-bike batteries come to market.
The London-headquartered folding bike maker has formally backed a Ten Minute Rule Bill drafted by charity Electrical Safety First which is expected to be tabled by Yvonne Fovargue MP in the coming weeks.
The manufacturer, which produces around 100,000 bikes every year, and is the first and biggest company of its type to support the proposed new regulations for e-bike batteries.
Brompton now joins 45 other organisations also backing the calls for new rules, including the National Fire Chiefs Council, the Chartered Trading Standards Institute, the Association of Ambulance Chief Executives and the Childrens Burns Trust.
The Bill will seek to introduce third party certification for e-bikes, e-scooters and their batteries to reduce the risk of dangerous batteries entering the market and subsequently, people’s homes.
At present, manufacturers can self-declare their batteries are safe prior to selling them to the public.
If introduced, the regulation would see e-bikes, e-scooter and their batteries added to an existing list of products which are already subject to third party certification, including fireworks and heavy machinery.
“The future for electric bikes is bright” – Brompton Bicycles
Will Butler-Adams, CEO at Brompton Bicycle, said: “We need to get more people on bikes, it’s good for your health and good for our planet, and above all else it makes us happy.
“Electric bikes are allowing more people to enjoy the fun and freedom of cycling, but unfortunately there are a number of serious incidents coming from unregulated e-bikes and conversion kits that could jeopardise this momentum and put people off getting back on a bike.
“If we can ensure that all electric bikes follow the same stringent testing and checks as our own, then the future for electric bikes is bright, and we can bring back cycling for generations to come.”
Story continues
Brompton Bicycle’s latest accounts for the year to March 31, 2023, are currently overdue to be filed with Companies House.
For the 12 months to March 31, 2022, the company posted a turnover of £106.8m and Pre-tax profits of £73m.
Lesley Rudd, chief executive of Electrical Safety First, added: “The support for our Bill by Brompton Bicycle demonstrates how reputable manufacturers want to protect shoppers and their industry from the bad operators in this space who may be producing substandard batteries. We are very pleased to have their support.
“Our Bill will better protect the public, protect good businesses and weed out bad operators producing dangerous batteries that put people’s lives at risk. We urge the government to adopt our Bill when it is tabled.”
It’s time for episode 75 of the road.cc Podcast, a two-parter that is as chalk and cheese as we’ve ever recorded in cycling terms… but that’s how we like it!
Listen to the road.cc Podcast on Apple Podcasts Listen to the road.cc Podcast on Spotify Listen to the road.cc Podcast on Amazon Music
The gloriously retro ‘Go Bag a Bickerton’ tv ad: dated even for 1983 according to Mark Bickerton himself
Part 1 is all about folding bikes, and more specifically a fascinating chat with Mark Bickerton, whose father Harry invented arguably the first properly practical, lightweight folding bike in the early 1970s. By the early ’80s the Bickerton Portable was a big British success story, boosted by a certain charming low-budget TV ad that became embedded into the public consciousness for various reasons (listen to find out why).
While Bickerton isn’t the folding force it once was and Brompton has long been the biggest British brand in portable cycles, the Bickerton name and bikes are still going strong, with Mark also now the main man in the UK behind the very popular urban bike brand Tern. The chat with road.cc editor Jack covers a brief history of Bickerton and folding bikes in general, what’s going on with Bickerton and Tern today, and Mark’s take on these turbulent times for the bike industry.
(Credit: Ryan Mallon)
In part two, Ryan and Dan delve behind the scenes at last week’s Paris-Roubaix, where Ryan was lucky enough to stand at the roadside as Lotte Kopecky, Marianne Vos, and Pfeiffer Georgi thundered over the brutal cobbles of the Carrefour de l’Arbre, watch Mathieu van der Poel receive a hero’s welcome in the Roubaix velodrome, and hitch a bumpy, often ferociously fast ride in the Grenke-Auto Eder team car during a dramatic junior edition of the Hell of the North.
Up for discussion is whether the world champ Van der Poel’s domination of the cobbled classics – and the blunt force with which he carries out his winning steam – is ‘boring’, where the Dutch phenom now stands in classic racing’s all-time hierarchy, British star Georgi’s hopes for the future, and the thrills and spills of watching a monument from the team car.
During his time in northern France, Ryan also caught up with 18-year-old Yorkshire-raised Irish rider Patrick Casey, who was making his debut at the Junior Paris-Roubaix for the Grenke-Auto Eder team, Bora-Hansgroghe’s development squad.
A product of the inaugural Red Bull Junior Brothers online scouting programme last year, Casey’s path to the pro ranks is somewhat different than other riders from these shores in the past, but the lessons he’s already learned during his time in Europe – such as the folly of turning up with two right-hand track mitts to the hardest race of the year – are steadfastly old school…
The road.cc Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon Music, and if you have an Alexa you can just tell it to play the road.cc Podcast. It’s also embedded further up the page, so you can just press play.
At the time of broadcast, our listeners can also get a free Hammerhead Heart Rate Monitor with the purchase of a Hammerhead Karoo 2. Visit hammerhead.io right now and use promo code ROADCC at checkout to get yours.
Brompton Bicycles has backed a proposed new law designed to ensure only safe e-bike batteries come to market.
The London-headquartered folding bike maker has formally backed a Ten Minute Rule Bill drafted by charity Electrical Safety First which is expected to be tabled by Yvonne Fovargue MP in the coming weeks.
The manufacturer, which produces around 100,000 bikes every year, and is the first and biggest company of its type to support the proposed new regulations for e-bike batteries.
Brompton now joins 45 other organisations also backing the calls for new rules, including the National Fire Chiefs Council, the Chartered Trading Standards Institute, the Association of Ambulance Chief Executives and the Childrens Burns Trust.
The Bill will seek to introduce third party certification for e-bikes, e-scooters and their batteries to reduce the risk of dangerous batteries entering the market and subsequently, people’s homes.
At present, manufacturers can self-declare their batteries are safe prior to selling them to the public.
If introduced, the regulation would see e-bikes, e-scooter and their batteries added to an existing list of products which are already subject to third party certification, including fireworks and heavy machinery.
“The future for electric bikes is bright” – Brompton Bicycles
Will Butler-Adams, CEO at Brompton Bicycle, said: “We need to get more people on bikes, it’s good for your health and good for our planet, and above all else it makes us happy.
“Electric bikes are allowing more people to enjoy the fun and freedom of cycling, but unfortunately there are a number of serious incidents coming from unregulated e-bikes and conversion kits that could jeopardise this momentum and put people off getting back on a bike.
“If we can ensure that all electric bikes follow the same stringent testing and checks as our own, then the future for electric bikes is bright, and we can bring back cycling for generations to come.”
Brompton Bicycle’s latest accounts for the year to March 31, 2023, are currently overdue to be filed with Companies House.
For the 12 months to March 31, 2022, the company posted a turnover of £106.8m and Pre-tax profits of £73m.
Lesley Rudd, chief executive of Electrical Safety First, added: “The support for our Bill by Brompton Bicycle demonstrates how reputable manufacturers want to protect shoppers and their industry from the bad operators in this space who may be producing substandard batteries. We are very pleased to have their support.
“Our Bill will better protect the public, protect good businesses and weed out bad operators producing dangerous batteries that put people’s lives at risk. We urge the government to adopt our Bill when it is tabled.”
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Franco Manca creates hundreds of jobs after opening string of new restaurants
