Author Archives: michellearthursbrennan

Well, life has seen some changes in the last year or so! I always knew I wanted to start a family, but as someone who prioritises daily activity, I was worried about how I might continue to maintain my endorphin hungry lifestyle – both during pregnancy, and in my new life afterwards. The good newsContinue reading “Cycling into motherhood”

I had a little rant, just to get some grumbles off my chest… you don’t have to agree (but, it seems like many people did). Read it here

Well, this question certainly garnered a lot of interest. This article was inspired by an unfortunate incident involving two sets of tyres, a hookless rim, and a volcano of sealant. I’m not in any way against tubeless tech, but I do think that – whilst great off-road – the solutions in place need some seriousContinue reading “Is tubeless sealant really good enough for road tyres?”

The answer may well be yes. But make sure you understand the maintenance involved. In recent years, bikes have become more integrated, with more proprietary components creeping into production. These look cool, they’re reportedly fast – but they aren’t always easy to live with. I spoke to a few mechanics and some brands for insightContinue reading “Do you really want to hide all the cables on your bike?”

This question had been irritating me for ages. Surely, pro cyclists don’t have fewer toes than everyone else – and those wanting to spend £100 or less won’t automatically have spades for feet. So, what’s going on? One shoe brand told me that the difference is intentional because it is believed that beginners will favourContinue reading “Why does price tag influence shoe width in cycling?”

Cycling can get really expensive if you let it. And for some riders, a lot of the enjoyment comes from exploring the myriad options that exist and deciding where to splash the cash. Here’s a look at the kit investments CW’s tech team recommends (and the ones we’re less convinced by). Or, watch the videoContinue reading “Spend v Save: which bike upgrades carry the biggest bang for buck?”

Well, it depends on the brand. The plan with this article initially was to write a tech question: “should you buy an open mould frame?” However, having spent an hour each speaking to UKSI, GB Hope track bike and Pinarello legend Dimitris Katsanis, plus former third-party manufacturer turned Factor CEO Rob Gitelis, it felt likeContinue reading “How involved are bike brands in frame production, really?”

This was one of those stories that lands on your desk leaving you slightly slack jawed with disbelief. I’m not convinced of the ‘world first’ claim, but the production method sounds pretty incredible and I do hope someone snaps up this tech – because these guys have worked hard, in a office made from “plasticContinue reading “The first mass-produced chrome carbon bicycle frames?”

Maybe it’s Covid, maybe I’m getting old – who knows – but all of a sudden I just don’t care how far or how fast. A little word doodle because. Read it here.