Italian engineering firm Formula, best known for its mountain bike and motorcycle suspension and brakes, is now applying its knowledge to the utility bike market with the Cargo suspension fork and Utile disc brake.

Both have been specified by French cargo bike company Ello Molibité on a fleet of bikes supplied to supermarket giant, Carrefour.

The bikes, equipped with the Formula’s Cargo fork and Utile brakes, have been deployed at the new Carrefour Market in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin on the French Riviera.

Cargo bikes for delivery service

Interestingly, the bikes will be put to work as part of Carrefour’s high-demand online delivery service, which sees the business transporting up to 100kg of groceries on each delivery and covering around 80 kilometres a day.

The Cargo fork and Utile brake were chosen as they increase safety and comfort for the rider, while also being low maintenance – reducing running costs over the lifespan of the bike.

They are backed up by Formula’s 10-Year Support Promise, which makes parts, spares and support available for 10 years.

Future plans 

At the moment, both Cargo fork and Utile brakes are only available as a B2B sale. As awareness grows, the business will then look at aftermarket sales opportunities.

About Formula

Formula is an Italian engineering company which emerged from motorcycle manufacturer AIM.  Founded in Tuscany, in 1987 by Andrea Becocci, Formula is credited with creating the first mountain bike-specific hydraulic disc brake.

Today the business is still owned by the Becocci family and produces high-end brakes and suspension for both bicycle and moto applications. For MTB the business offers forks, shocks, brakes and wheelsets, all aimed at longer travel applications across trail, enduro, and DH.

Amongst the product range, the brand includes a limited edition Josh Bryceland  Selva fork, with only 100 made,  created for the Red Bull Hardline. The fork features custom tuning, as well as unique graphics and laser etching.

Schwalbe‘s G-One R line gets its third member with the launch of the G-One RX, which is said to focus on delivering the best possible off-road performance.

The new G-One RX has been designed and optimised for off-road, especially on rocky and muddy terrain, where enormous amounts of grip are required.

The tyre retains the boomerang design tread pattern of the G-One R for low rolling resistance and grip on steep climbs. However, the knobs are more pronounced and the focus on off-road surfaces is particularly evident in the tread detail:

— Paired outer blocks ensure maximum cornering traction. The concept originates from the cyclo-cross sector, where Schwalbe has already successfully implemented it on the X-One R.

— The intermediate area is open to ensure the best grip on steep climbs and good self-cleaning even in muddy conditions

Schwalbe‘s development team uses a newly developed carcass construction for the R-Line. Schwalbe also relies on “an innovative turn-up construction with three carcass plies on the sidewall for outstanding puncture and cut protection”.

The improved and widened V-Guard puncture protection belt is said to “provide increased protection under the tread”, whilst another new feature is the “arrangement of the individual plies, which (the brand claims) has further reduced rolling resistance”.

The result: even more puncture protection with the same weight. Together with the further optimized and faster Addix Race rubber compound, the G-One RX aims to make a performance-optimised statement.

Complete R line gets an update

At the same time, the other two tyres in Schwalbe‘s G-One R line also receive the new rubber compound and carcass construction. The range of sizes and colours is also being expanded once again.

The new R PRO line will be available with Schwalbe ́s popular transparent sidewall and, for the first time, with a black sidewall across all models.

The brand’s signature blue colour, found on its professional athletes’ blue chafer tyres, is now part of the all-new PRO label. Here, the “Schwalbe PRO” line represents tyres that “stand for exceptional performance”.

Schwalbe’s G-One R line:

• G-One RX: Focus on the best possible off-road performance with more grip in difficult conditions.
• G-One RS: The best choice for asphalt and hard gravel with a full focus on maximum speed.
• G-One R: All-rounder, fast on asphalt, but also good off-road.

For information on trade wholesale suppliers, please contact Schwalbe via email at Info@schwalbe.co.uk.

Italian indoor trainer manufacturer Elite has announced the Zwift Virtual Shifting update for its standard Direto XR and Direto XR-T models is now live on Upgrado – the dedicated app for managing firmware updates of Elite home trainers.

This means existing and new owners will be able to update their firmware in just a few steps and transform your Direto XR or XR-T into a trainer that’s fully compatible with Zwift’s Cog and Click for virtual shifting.

A spokesperson for the brand comments: “With every update, we’re always pushing the boundaries to enhance your training experience with an ever-evolving, easy-to-expand ecosystem”.

“After introducing the Cog and Click integration with Direto XR, we’re thrilled to extend this to all standard models”.

Firmware updates for Justo, Justo 2, and Avanti are expected in early 2025, with updates for Suito(-T), Direto, Direto X, and Direto XR Team coming this spring.

Update firmware to unlock Zwift’s Virtual Shifting

With the latest firmware update on Upgrado, your Direto XR(-T) unlocks virtual shifting and is fully compatible with Zwift Cog and Click.

Zwift’s convenient two-button Zwift Click controller allows riders to adjust trainer resistance with 24 virtual gears, giving seamless control over resistance while cycling on the platform – aiming to deliver a smoother, quieter, and more immersive training experience.

Switch to the Zwift Cog

Getting started is easy—just remove the cassette and replace it with the Zwift Cog to open up new training possibilities on the Direto XR(-T). Compatible with almost any 8 to 12-speed bike, the Cog ensures quick, hassle-free transitions between bikes without compatibility issues.

Upgrades for existing users

With the launch of the update, Zwift introduces a unique offer for Elite users with a Direto XR(-T).

Elite trainer owners making the upgrade can order the Zwift Cog and Click Upgrade Pack (the Elite-compatible “No Freehub” version) through an affiliate link and use the code ELITEZCOG2024 at checkout to get $20/£20/€20 off.

Purchases on Zwift are available only in the EU, UK, and US.

In the UK Elite products are distributed by Madison.

Italian saddle brand Selle Italia has delved into its archives to create a rereleased version of two iconic saddles.

The legendary Turbo and Flite, two models that wrote the history of the Selle Italia brand, and accompanied the greatest cycling champions, are back as part of the brand’s Heritage collection.

Reintroduced in a version that is faithful to the original version, these iconic saddles, made of genuine leather, are designed for enthusiasts who would like to relive the emotions of the cycling of yesteryear.

Two saddles that tell the story of cycling, relaunched by Selle Italia in two re-editions almost identical to the iconic models of the 1980s and 1990s: Turbo and Flite.

Part of the Heritage collection, these new saddles combine classic and modern elements and pay homage to the Company’s roots and to the champions who chose them in the past. Made of genuine leather and in a totally black version, Turbo and Flite embody the spirit of cycling of the past.

Turbo 1980

Turbo was the first saddle manufactured by the Asolo-based Company used by a professional cyclist in the 1980s: Bernard Hinault turned it into a legendary model.

Turbo 1980 celebrates this history and re-proposes the original design of a model with a genuine leather cover and a FecAlloy rail. A unique version that revives the cycling of yesteryear with a contemporary reinterpretation.

Recommended retail price: £99

Flite 1990

Launched for the first time in 1990, Flite was a real revolution in the world of saddles. It was the first product characterised by a design with an exposed rail, which influenced saddle design for future generations.

The Flite 1990 version keeps the minimalist style and slim silhouette and features the old Selle Italia logo, to celebrate the Company’s long history.

Handmade with genuine leather and titanium rails, it is the reinterpretation of an iconic model that is still used today by new champions.

Recommended retail price: £99

For more information about the Selle Italia Heritage range, click here.

In the UK Selle Italia is distributed by Zyro Fisher.

Santafixie, the online store for urban cycling in Europe, based in Barcelona, has signed an exclusive agreement to distribute Stiffi carbon wheels across Europe. Recognised for their innovative design and high performance, these wheels are manufactured in Australia and represent the cutting edge of technology for urban and sports cycling.

Stiffi wheels stand out not only for their high quality but also for their philosophy centred on design, innovation, and the joy of cycling on the track or the streets. As stated in the brand’s mission, Stiffi aims to revolutionise the cycling experience with products that combine functionality and style, turning every ride into a bold statement of passion for unique and unmistakable design. This philosophy is evident, for example, in the Stiffi Shuriken 4 Track wheels.

The brand’s founder, Steven Atkinson, who brings extensive experience in designing cycling components, emphasises that the company is committed to building a global community of cyclists, regardless of the type of cycling they practice. Stiffi wheels can be configured for track bikes, urban fixed-gear or freewheel bikes, and even road bikes with disc or rim brakes.

“We are proud to bring such an innovative brand as Stiffi from Australia to Europe. We know our customers seek unique, exclusive, and distinctive products, and Stiffi perfectly aligns with our vision,” says the Santafixie team.

Brilliantly vivid and effortlessly intuitive, ELEMNT ACE makes planning, navigating and analysing your performance easier than ever, allowing you to take on big goals and bigger adventures.

ELEMNT ACE’s wind sensor quantifies airspeed, helping you adjust for wind and draft effects. After your ride, Wahoo Wind Dynamics (WWD) in the Wahoo App breaks down wind data, offering insights to refine your strategy.

Go from zero to riding in record time with the new Ready-to-Ride dashboard that cuts down setup time. Select a profile, load routes, check sensors and battery – all in one view.

ELEMNT ACE is built for smooth interaction in all situations. Its large, smartphone-like touchscreen lets you swipe and pinch through maps and metrics. For tougher conditions, tactile buttons offer quick access, enhancing safety and control even in cold or wet weather.

With dual-band GPS, real-time data, and up to 30 hours of battery life, ELEMNT ACE keeps you informed and in control from start to finish.

ACE’s features help you manage energy and focus. SUMMIT helps you pace every ascent. Voice alerts keep your eyes on the road. And detailed maps connect you to every aspect of your ride.

Using the built-in speakers, ACE’s easy-to-use Digital Bike Bell lets riders communicate seamlessly and safely while staying focused on their ride.

“The new ELEMNT ACE brings wind speed data in real-time which we think could be a game changer in drafting dynamics. It’s such a huge factor in how a race plays out, so we are very excited to be working closely with Wahoo on how to get the most out of the ACE’s wind sensor for training and race preparation.” – Peter Schep, Head of Performance, EF Pro Cycling.

Click here for more information and dealer support.

Festka, the Czech manufacturer of high-end carbon bicycle frames based in Prague, has announced the release of its Spectre Gravel, a high-performance gravel bike.

At launch, the brand states the Spectre Gravel is “engineered to redefine speed and comfort across all terrains, making it the ideal choice for cyclists seeking speed, precision, and versatility.”

The eagle-eyed amongst you will have spotted that the bike was first introduced in October, at Designblok, the Prague International Design Festival, and shortly after at Bespoked, Europe’s largest handmade bicycle show in Dresden.

Engineered for speed on any terrain

The Spectre Gravel is engineered as a race bike, for any terrain, whether that’s racing down asphalt, gliding over sand, manoeuvring through mud, or cruising on gravel, its primary focus is enabling riders to go fast.

With all this talk of ‘speed’ you’d be forgiven for thinking this will be a laser focused on trick pony. The Festka design team want to make clear that’s not how they see it, at all.

The brand has specifically sought to create “an exceptionally enjoyable ride.” We’re told it means “the bike is smooth, free from rattles, and delivers flawless performance even under the heaviest loads”.

Talking through the visual and the engineering focal point of Spectre Gravel, the brand highlights that every detail of the bike, from the sleek, flattened top tube and signature rear monostay to the seamlessly integrated internal headset bearing, is crafted with versatility in mind.

As one example of this integrated thinking: The bike’s superior rear wheel grip, enhanced by the deformation zone in the monostay area, improves comfort and traction, resulting in better handling.

Critically, given the ‘go-fast’ messaging, Festka is also keen to point out that “The robust frame construction easily manages challenging terrain”.

The Spectre Gravel features UDH dropouts, making it fully compatible with the latest SRAM Red XPLR, ensuring performance-focused shifting performance for both gravel and mixed-terrain rides.

With an on-trend 44mm tyre clearance and exceptional vibration control coming from the frame layup, the Spectre Gravel has been designed and engineered with the aim of delivering a stable, smooth ride while maintaining performance on rugged surfaces. In short, everything you’d expect a bike brand to say of its latest go-faster gravel race bike.

Technical specifications:

● Bottom Bracket Shell: PF 86,5 / 41 mm
● Fork: ENVE Gravel In-Route
● Head Tube Diameter: 52 mm
● Headset Bearings Size: 51,9x40x8 mm
● Max Chainring Size: 46
● Seatpost Diameter: 27,2 mm
● Shifting: EPS, Di2, eTap
● Max Tire Clearance: 44 mm (width as measured)
● Max Rotor Size: 140 mm rear, 160 mm front
● Weight: 1035 g (size M, Core Raw design)

Michael Moureček, co-founder and product manager at Festka comments: “Spectre Gravel is the result of precision engineering and a passion for cycling – it is designed for those who demand the best from their bike. The Spectre Gravel combines speed, durability, and comfort to make every ride an exceptional experience.”

The Spectre Gravel is now available for order, the price starts at EUR 8.900 for a frame-set and EUR 10.420 for a full build.

One Good Thing (OGT) has introduced what it claims to be “the world’s first wrapper-free oat bars” – designed specifically to be the most convenient snack for cycling.

With cycling seen by many as much more than a means of transportation or a competitive sport – encompassing an entire lifestyle – certain products are uniquely placed to appeal to the entire congregation, be they riders travelling to work, cyclists taking on a sportive or Alpine climb, or those looking to experience life adventures on two-wheels for the first time.

Whether conquering challenging mountain trails, cruising through city streets, or preparing for a competitive race, one thing is constant: Having the right fuel is crucial.

It’s here that OGT Bars are positioning themselves, with a solution that comes packed with natural ingredients. Scientifically formulated for sustained energy, OGT bars are designed specifically to become an essential part of every bike rider’s kit.

Founded by father-son duo Daniel and Mike Bedford, the father-and-son team aims to provide a convenient fuelling solution for cyclists, whilst maintaining the beauty of the British countryside. Their solution? The OGT bar: a world-first product with a beeswax-based edible coating, made to withstand a cyclist’s jersey pocket.

Why are OGT oat bars so great for cyclists?

• Designed for convenient fuelling, OGT bars fit perfectly into a vest or jersey, and hold up perfectly well come rain or shine (or even a particularly sweaty ride!).
• No need to tear open a wrapper and let go of handlebars, saving time and teeth. Even gloves can stay on in the colder months, keeping riders focused and comfortable.
• Made from all-natural ingredients, created to provide taste great, and, with each bar, delivering 24-25g of oat-based carbs – providing a tasty, natural, fuelling treat.
• OGT are proudly the world’s first natural edible coating to achieve a four-month shelf life, without the use of artificial preservatives!

With a range of 10 flavours including Chocolate and Orange, and Salted Caramel, OGT Bars aim to provide a hit of digestible, tasty, fuel, with wrapper-based zero distractions, providing a new answer for any cyclist hoping to find the simplest snacking, and waste management, solution.

SPONSORED ARTICLE IN PARTNERSHIP WITH BLUETTI

There is still a chance to snag an exceptional deal and simplify your holiday shopping with BLUETTI’s Black Friday deals on portable power stations and practical gifts for indoor and outdoor use.

The BLUETTI Black Friday sale runs until Monday, December 2, with savings up to 45% off, so now is the time to secure some holiday gifts for your loved ones. 

Best Gifts for Off-Grid Adventurers: AC200L Portable Power Station

Anyone who loves van life or off-grid living cannot refuse a gift like the BLUETTI AC200L portable power station. With its 2,048Wh capacity and 2,400W output, it can power everything from a small fridge to a coffee maker. It can run a 150W fridge for 28 hours or charge a 100Wh laptop up to 47 times, making it essential for a comfortable off-grid experience. For extended trips, add the B300K Battery Pack to double its capacity to 4,812.8Wh. The Charger1 Alternator Charger can charge AC200L 6 times faster than the conventional car charger.

Best-Value Gifts for Travellers: AC180 and AC70 Portable Power Station

Compact yet powerful, the AC180 and AC70 are great gifts for travelers, remote workers, or anyone who needs reliable power on the go. The AC180 packs a 1,152Wh capacity and 1,800W output, which can keep a car fridge running for over 15 hours—ideal for camping, beach outings, or picnics. The smaller AC70 with 768Wh capacity and 1,000W inverter is great for keeping phones, laptops, cameras, and drones charged during backyard camping or fishing trips. 

Multi-Layer Protection in Every Charge: Charger 1 | 560W Alternator Charger

Works with all BLUETTI power stations and most brands on the market, delivering a maximum of 560W of power—six times faster than traditional car cigarette lighter chargers. Active fan cooling for optimal performance and extended service life. Protect your vehicle battery and power station from short circuit, reverse connection, under-voltage, over-temperature, etc. Automatic turn on/off functions prevent your vehicle battery from draining. Allows you to adjust output voltage and monitor car battery status in real-time. Quick to connect and setup with a few simple steps. Backed by a TWO-year warranty for reliable performance

Practical Gifts for Homeowners: AC300 and AC500 Home Backup Power Series

A reliable home battery backup system is a no-brainer gift for someone who wants energy security. The AC300 and AC500 series provide Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS) capabilities, keeping essential home appliances running through storms or unexpected power outages. The AC300 + B300K combo (3,000W/2,764.8Wh) powers appliances like refrigerators, freezers, CPAP machines, WiFi routers, and more, ensuring comfort and convenience during blackouts. For greater capacity, the AC500 + 2×B300K (5,000W/5,529.6Wh) setup powers heavy-duty appliances such as a 5000BTU air conditioner for about 2 hours.

Portable power stations and solar panels aren’t cheap, so don’t miss out on BLUETTI’s Black Friday deals to get one at a discount for yourself, your family, or your friends. With a range of portable generators and solar panels to choose from, you can’t go wrong, as they can be used for everyday life, camping, emergencies, or remote worksites. You can get an additional discount of 5% on BLUETTI’s official website and Amazon by using the coupon code “BLUETTIOFF“.

Carbon Wasp has launched a new gearbox hardtail frame, hand made in Yorkshire.

Described by the brand as “the ultimate winter hardtail”, it has been a work-in-progress for several years.

Adrian Smith, chief designer and owner of Carbon Wasp, commented: “This is our take on the trusty winter hardtail; a gearbox bike for any conditions.

“We’ve been making gearbox bikes for years and we poured everything we know into this frame.

“It can be customised and tweaked in the construction and the set up to suit any kind of riding on any terrain.”

Carbon Wasp was set up several years ago and has been making components and frames for other brands for some time, as well as producing own brand parts.

The parts they have created have been used by world class riders on road, track and triathlon and have featured in the Tour de France, multiple World Championships and the past two Olympic games.

The company’s focus is MTB’s though and they have been developing this hardtail frame alongside full-suspension frames and other projects.

Carbon Wasp has allowed for plenty of customisation in the design of the frame, so the frame can be set up in the way that best suits the end use.

Utilising the low maintenance gearbox systems available from either Pinion or Effigear, this bike can be used on a bikepacking trek across the world, a short thrash in the local woods, or anything in between.

The frames are made entirely in Leeds, UK using pre-preg carbon fibre sourced in the UK.

That allows Carbon Wasp to keep control over quality and ensure shorter lead times.

The frames are compatible with gearboxes from Effigear and Pinion, including the new Pinion SmartShift with electronic shifting and can be fitted with Carbon Wasp’s own titanium Pinion cranks.

All frames feature internal cable routing and downtube storage, which includes access to the Pinion SmartShift wiring and battery.

The stays can be split, which means they can accommodate a belt drive, and the sliding dropouts provide belt or chain tension.

With ample tyre clearance, the internal stay clearance is 90mm at the tyre, so the frames can fit up to 29×3.0” tyres.

The frame is available in four standard sizes and features modern reach numbers (480mm on large), 30.9mm seat tube with space for the longest dropper posts.

But, customisation is at the heart of this frame, allowing riders to adapt the frame to your needs.

The headset is 44ZS/56ZS as standard but can be made with a 56mm upper bore to fit an angleset, allowing up to +/- 2deg head angle adjustment from the standard 65deg.

Likewise the rear dropouts can be customised to adjust the rear wheel position and tweak geometry.

Carbon Wasp are a small company and focus only on making the frames, so the hardtails are available as a frame-only or frame and gearbox, although a custom full build is available on request

As with its full-suspension frames, Carbon Wasp doesn’t use paint, opting to fit a coloured wrap instead.

Frames come with any custom colour of choosing (one-colour) with more elaborate custom colours or patterns available for an extra charge.

Frame only is £1,650 including custom wrap (one colour), with the frame and gearbox available for £2,550.

Available to order now, delivery around four weeks.

For more information, visit: carbonwasp.com