Buyer's Guides

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 MPart MudguardsMudguards are a must-have for autumn cycling, and MPart offers 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, 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 to fit a wide range

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:

When Cycling Weekly gear expert Joe Baker took the Madison Cipher Photochromic Sunglasses for a spin, he came away impressed—and for good reason. Priced at just £79.99, the Ciphers offer performance features usually reserved for much more expensive eyewear. In his review, Baker highlights the photochromic lenses as a standout feature—rare at this price point and a major plus for cyclists who ride in changing light conditions. The TR-90 frames also earned high praise. Lightweight, flexible, and built to last, they stay secure over rough terrain—whether you're hitting the road, gravel, or mountain trails. “(The Madison Cipher is) A versatile and well-built pair of sunglasses”—Joe Baker, Cycling Weekly Looking for dependable, feature-rich cycling sunglasses without the premium price tag? The Madison Cipher might be your perfect match. Shop Now or Learn More About the Cipher Collection Madison Eyewear Cipher Matt Black Sunglasses - Photochromic (Cat 1-3) Lens £79.99 Madison Eyewear Cipher

How to Fit a Bike Rack: A Simple GuideIf you’ve ever stared at a bike rack with mild confusion (or full-blown frustration), you’re not alone. Whether it’s for a weekend away or just getting to your local trail, knowing how to fit a bike rack properly makes life a whole lot easier - and safer too. In this guide, we’ll take you through the basics of fitting a bike rack, share some handy tips, and highlight a few brilliant options from Thule, available now at Freewheel.co.uk. NOTE: This guide offers general advice - always follow the specific fitting instructions provided by the manufacturer.1. First Things First: Pick the Right Rack Before you start strapping things to your car, make sure you’ve got the right type of bike rack for your setup. Thule has loads of great options depending on your car and how many bikes you’re carrying: - Rear-mounted racks – perfect for hatchbacks or SUVs and quick to fit - Roof racks – ideal for keeping the rear of your vehicle free (handy for parking!)

When to Replace Bike Rim Brake Pads (And How to Tell They're Worn Out)Your bike’s braking system is one of those things you don’t think much about - until it doesn’t work like it should. Rim brake pads might seem like a small detail, but they make a big difference in how safely and smoothly you ride. Whether you’re rolling around town or heading out for weekend adventures, knowing when to replace your brake pads is key to keeping things under control (literally).What Are Rim Brake Pads, Anyway?Rim brake pads are those little blocks - usually rubber or a similar compound - that press against your wheel rims when you squeeze the brakes. They’re common on road bikes, hybrids, and some mountain bikes with caliper, cantilever, or V-brake systems. Over time, these pads wear down, just like the soles of your shoes. And like shoes, they need replacing before they wear through.How Do They Work?When you pull your brake lever, the pads clamp onto the metal sidewalls of your wheel rim. That

Saracen launch updated Myst with LTD series colourwaysSaracen is excited to launch the updated Myst, featuring Limited series colourways and is one of the first bikes to come to market with the new FOX DHX2 system.  The latest Saracen Myst is available in five new colourways including the frameset, across the Myst Team and Pro models with a LTD  ‘Liquid’ series colourway available in each line. Saracen has designed an additional limited colour in each model which has taken inspiration from the eye-catching, fan-favourite Madison Saracen frame which was raced during the opening two rounds of the 2024 Downhill World Cup. This latest model is one of the first to feature the next-generation Fox DHX2 coil shock, offering a monotube design for better pressure balancing, a larger 12.7mm damper shaft for improved strength, and 4-way adjustability to fine-tune your ride. Whether you're dialling in high-speed compression or low-speed rebound, the DHX2 gives you unmatched grip and responsiveness

New Arrival: Park Tool PRS-30 Mechanical Lift Repair Stand – Now Available on Freewheel.co.uk!If you’ve ever struggled to lift a heavy e-bike onto a repair stand, you’re not alone. Thankfully, those days are over. We’re excited to announce the launch of the Park Tool PRS-30 Mechanical Lift Repair Stand, now available at Freewheel.co.uk – the ultimate solution for e-bike maintenance, repairs, and deep cleaning. Power Meets Precision The PRS-30 takes all the hard work out of bike repair. With the ability to lift and support bikes up to 120 lbs (54 kg), this stand is a game-changer—especially for e-bike owners and anyone dealing with heavier rides. What sets it apart? The internally geared hand-crank mechanism makes raising and lowering your bike smooth and easy. No more awkward hoisting or back strain. And for an even simpler experience, you can use a standard battery-powered drill and a 10 mm socket to lift your bike with zero effort. Smart, Space-Saving Design Despite its lifting power,

How to Clean a Bike Chain: A Step-by-Step Guide for a Smoother RideIf your bike isn’t shifting smoothly, sounds gritty, or just feels sluggish, your chain is likely crying out for a clean. A dirty chain wears out faster, affects your drivetrain, and saps energy from every pedal stroke. Let’s walk through exactly how to clean your bike chain at home—plus we recommend some top tools and products to make the job easier and more effective. And of course, you can always pop in to your local bike store for help and advice on cleaning your bike chain. Why Cleaning Your Chain MattersYour bike chain goes through a lot. It picks up road grime, mud, dust, and debris - especially if you ride in wet or off-road conditions. Letting that build-up sit leads to: - Increased wear on your drivetrain - Rust or corrosion - Poor shifting and power transfer - Shortened chain life Cleaning your chain regularly (every 100-150 miles for road bikes or after muddy rides for MTBs) helps keep your bike running smoothly

Can You Add a Bike Basket to Any Bike? Here’s What You Need to KnowAdding a bike basket is one of the easiest ways to make your bike more practical for everyday. Whether you're picking up shopping, commuting with a backpack, or just want a place to stash your coffee and keys, a well-fitted basket can make your ride much more convenient. And although fitting bike racks is a relatively easy task, we always recommend you pop in to your local bike shop who’ll be happy to help! If your bike didn’t come with one, you might ask: Can I add a bike basket to my bike? The answer is usually yes - but there are a few things to consider first.Which Type of Bike Basket is Right for You?Front Baskets Front-mounted baskets attach to the handlebars or the fork. These are great for smaller items and are easy to access while you’re riding. Some clip on and off; others are permanently fixed. Rear Baskets These mount on a rear rack, giving more room and stability - perfect for heavier loads. If your bike

Which Size Bike Inner Tube Do I Need? body { font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 1.7; margin: 0; padding: 20px; background: #f9f9f9; color: #333; } h1, h2, h3 { color: #2a2a2a; } img { max-width: 100%; height: auto; margin: 10px 0; } a { color: #0073e6; text-decoration: none; } a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } .product { background: #fff; padding: 15px; margin: 20px 0; border-radius: 8px; box-shadow: 0 2px 5px rgba(0,0,0,0.05); } Which Size Bike Inner Tube Do I Need? Whether you’ve got a flat or you’re simply preparing for the inevitable, choosing the right bike inner tube is essential for a smooth and safe ride. But with so many sizes and valve types, it can be a little confusing if you’re not sure what to look for. This guide will walk you through how to check your current tyre, choose the correct valve, and help you find quality options — from affordable Nutrak tubes to premium performance by Vittoria — all available at Freewheel.co.uk. Step 1: How to Find Your Tyre Size The easiest way to determine the correct size inner tube is to check the sidewall of your bicycle tyre. You’ll see a number combination such as 700x25c, 26x1.95, 27.5x2.1, or 29x2.3. These numbers tell you two things: the first is the diameter of your wheel, the second is the width of your tyre. For example, if your tyre says 26x1.95, you’ll need an inner tube made for 26-inch wheels and tyre widths

Homegrown Quality: Get to Know Freewheel’s Own BrandsAlongside some of the biggest names in the cycling world, we proudly design and develop our own portfolio of in-house brands. Spanning everything from powerhouse P&A labels like Aztek, Nutrak, and Truflo, to technical apparel specialists Madison Clothing and Hump, and iconic bike brands including Ridgeback and Genesis—our proprietary offering has been built over decades with one clear focus: delivering high-quality, great-value products that riders can trust.One of our most established brands is Ridgeback. With a heritage stretching back over 30 years, Ridgeback has produced bikes trusted for round-the-world adventures as well as reliable daily rides and a range of award-winning e-bikes - perfect for everything from cross-continent touring to popping to the shop for a pint of milk.Genesis Bikes was born from Ridgeback’s more adventurous DNA. Built for riders who crave versatility, Genesis bikes are engineered to perform both