Newsletters

Welcome to BikeMiles®

30.11.2012
By Cyclescheme

Log into your MyCyclescheme account now and get logging your miles!

Cycletta 2012 women on wheels for fitness and fun

31.08.2012
By Cyclescheme

We are delighted to announce that Specialized are in association with the Cycletta women’s events for 2012. Cycletta is supported by Olympic Gold medallist Victoria Pendleton, Sky and British Cycling who are all committed to encouraging more women to take up cycling for fitness and fun.

Ride and get rewarded. Welcome to BikeMiles®

30.08.2012
By Cyclescheme

The UK’s first national rewards network for cyclists will launch in just a few weeks’ time giving you access to a range of exclusive offers, promotions and discounts, both deeply rooted in the cycling world and for those times when you’re off the bike too.

Win a Fast4ward Peak worth £999!

30.08.2012
By Cyclescheme

Hero Eco are a leading $6bn manufacturer of two wheel vehicles and produce a bicycle every 9 seconds. With a German design team and high performance propulsions systems, Hero Eco produce some of the best electric bicycles available. The Hero products are marketed in over 80 countries around the globe servicing over 7,500 retail outlets.

Don't miss the UK's #1 Cycle Show!

28.08.2012
By Cyclescheme

For three days the show will play host to the world’s best known cycling brands. Visitors will be able to grab a sneak preview of the very latest bikes, accessories and fashions for the year ahead.

Round Up: Cycles for all

27.08.2012
By Cyclescheme

Whatever your disability, the chances are that there will be a cycle that you can ride. More sophisticated (and lighter weight) special needs cycles are expensive, as they're not mass produced, but entry-level machines are available within the Cycle to Work threshold. And there are lots of conventional cycles that will suit a disable rider too, with or without adaptations.

Caught the cycling BUG?

27.08.2012
By Cyclescheme

Cyclescheme is currently looking at ways we can work with Bicycle User Groups (BUGs) to offer employees the best support when they switch to a two-wheeled commute. We feel that a good BUG can be critical in driving the success of a Cycle to Work scheme and so if you are involved with a BUG, or other cycling group within your company, or are interested in setting one up, Cyclescheme would like to hear from you.

Park and ride

23.08.2012
By Cyclescheme

Cycling is perfect for the last few miles of a long-distance commute. Bike-rail is one option, if you have a compact folding bike or the patience to put up with unhelpful carriage restrictions. Another option is the car: drive part way then park and ride.

British Cycling: helping you get more out of your cycling

23.08.2012
By Cyclescheme

If this summer’s cycling success has inspired you to do a little more, then help is at hand. Whether you want to test yourself on a longer ride or head out with your local club, British Cycling has something for you.

Round Up: Shorts

22.08.2012
By Cyclescheme

Cycling shorts come in two types: skin-tight Lycra shorts, originally designed for road racing; and baggy shorts, initially made for mountain bikers. Either is fine for commuting, and baggies look okay off the bike; liberal clothing policies may even allow them for work. Unless you're heading for somewhere like The Royal Ballet, Lycra (also known as spandex or elastane) is strictly for the bike.

The Cyclescheme Seven: what's your commute really like?

22.08.2012
By Cyclescheme

Ever wondered how your commuting experience differs to others? Each month we share the story of a real Cyclescheme cycle commuter and ask them seven questions to sum up their experience from their two-wheeled commute. This month, it's David from London.

Marie Curie Cancer Care Etape Pennines

21.08.2012
By Cyclescheme

You’ve got your bike, you’re getting fit and you can’t get enough of riding – sound familiar? If so, then it’s time to take your riding to the next level by taking on the Marie Curie Cancer Care Etape Pennines. Taking place on the 7th October 2012, the Marie Curie Cancer Care Etape Pennines is a 78 mile cycling event which takes place on completely closed roads. Yep, that’s right, no stubborn motorists cutting you up, no breathing in fumes from a buses exhaust, and certainly no traffic lights – just 3,000 fellow riders, amazing scenery and an atmosphere to match.

Log your miles and earn rewards with Cyclescheme

27.07.2012
By Cyclescheme

Cyclescheme is launching the UK’s first national rewards network for cyclists this September. The idea is simple - log the miles you ride on your bike, and earn rewards. It’s like air miles, but with bikes instead of aeroplanes.

The Cyclescheme Seven: what's your commute really like?

27.07.2012
By Cyclescheme

Ever wondered how your commuting experience differs to others? Each month we share the story of a real Cyclescheme cycle commuter and ask them seven questions to sum up their experience from their two-wheeled commute. This month, it's Rachel from Cardiff.

Cycleshow 2012: special Cyclescheme discount!

27.07.2012
By Cyclescheme

The Cycle Show will return to the NEC, Birmingham on 28th – 30th September 2012 with heavy-weight bike brands, such as Specialized, Trek and Madison, joining the line up from last year.

Round Up: Eyewear

25.07.2012
By Cyclescheme

After the wettest April to June on record, you might think that any talk of sunglasses is a bit rose tinted. But in overcast Britain, cycling shades aren't worn primarily to block out ultraviolet rays, nor even to look cool in like a pair of aviators. They're worn to keep stuff out of your eyes, like wind, flies, and dirt. A fly in the eye at speed can make you lose control, while the wind in your face from riding quickly will make your eyes tearful – and your nose run.

Specialized 30-day guarantee

25.07.2012
By Cyclescheme

Specialized now offer a 30 day satisfaction guarantee* on BG Saddles to help you reach the ultimate fit. When the bicycle and the body become one cyclists can enjoy their ride to the full potential.

Cyclescheme Rewards

24.07.2012
By Cyclescheme

This month Cyclescheme sent out lots more iGo bike gift vouchers to employees of well performing schemes. Each of the following companies had the highest participation rate in their relevant size category, with a total over 300 employees obtaining new bikes across the four schemes:

Cyclescheme's Laurence Boon named in BikeBiz 30 under 30

23.07.2012
By Cyclescheme

July saw industry trade publication, BikeBiz, name the 30 rising stars of the bike trade under 30 years of age. Laurence Boon, Relationship Manager for Cyclescheme's suppliers and Partner Stores beat off the competition to secure a place in this coveted list.

Look smart? No sweat.

19.07.2012
By Cyclescheme

You don't need showers at work to be smart and odour-free after you've cycled there. If there are showers, great: you can ride to work at any speed, on any bike, in any weather, and still look businesslike so long as you've got a towel and a change of clothes.

Round Up: Road Race Bikes

18.07.2012
By Cyclescheme

Television footage of the Tour de France and the Olympic road race should see the strong sales of road race bikes rise further this summer. You don't have to be Wiggins or Cavendish to appreciate this sort of thoroughbred. If your ride to work is a Lycra-clad workout, a race bike can also be your transport.

Tern bicycles

27.06.2012
By Cyclescheme

Tern bicycles arrived on the folding bike scene in the summer of last year, looking to bring a little excitement, innovation and a fresh approach to the folding bike category. The brainchild of a core creative team who were responsible for some of the world’s best folding bikes over the last 15 years; Tern decided to work the problem of portable, stow-able transportation from a fresh, logical angle…

The Cyclescheme Seven: what's your commute really like?

24.06.2012
By Cyclescheme

Ever wondered how your commuting experience differs to others? Each month we share the story of a real Cyclescheme cycle commuter and ask them seven questions to sum up their experience from their two-wheeled commute. This month, it's James from Surrey.

Round Up: Helmets

24.05.2012
By Cyclescheme

Cycling is not a dangerous activity. Per hour, you are more likely to suffer an injury requiring medical attention while gardening; per mile, you are more likely to be killed while walking. Nevertheless, if you fall off your bike and bang your head you can do some nasty damage. Helmets are designed to limit that damage.

How to fix a chain

24.05.2012
By Cyclescheme

Chain wear is fact of cycling life. Most of the time it’s gradual. Our guide to chain care explains when you need to fit a new one. But occasionally the chain will snap while you’re out cycling. Fortunately it’s not difficult to fix. Here’s what you will need…

Round Up: Mountain Bikes

22.05.2012
By Cyclescheme

Mountain bikes are built for riding over rough ground, more often on trails through forests and moorland rather than actual mountains. Their tyres have deep tread lugs for traction in dirt and are fatter to absorb bumps. To improve bike control and comfort, most also have suspension for the front or both wheels. Gears go low to cope with steep climbs, while brakes – often hydraulic discs – are powerful to keep difficult descents in check. Mountain bikes are the 4x4s of the bike world.

Have you got your Father's Day present yet?

21.05.2012
By Cyclescheme

This Father’s Day, why not send your dad a thoughtful, motivating and healthy present? With an iGo bike gift voucher, your dad can get hold of the latest kit from the biggest bike brands, get his bike serviced by a fully-trained mechanic, take advantage of expert knowledge from passionate cyclists and much more - all from his local independent bike shop. You can conveniently purchase the iGo bike gift voucher online and include a personal message to your loved one, with delivery to an address of your choice within 48 hours. So, why not help your dad out and encourage him to get that new piece of kit he’s been after, or even help contribute towards a new bike - the iGo Bike Gift Voucher is a wonderful way to show you care. Check out: www.bikegiftvouchers.co.uk for more information and to buy online today!

Concept Store Newbury - Opening!

21.05.2012
By Cyclescheme

Specialized dealer Banjo Cycles will be opening Specialized’s tenth Concept Store in the UK end of May 2012. Based in Newbury the new store is promising to attract cycling enthusiasts from the south west of the country and to respond to Banjo cycles and Specialized’s common goal to improve the bicycle retail experience for consumers.

Save 40-50% on your favourite cycling mags!

16.05.2012
By Cyclescheme

Cyclescheme and Future Publishing have teamed up to offer our participants a fantastic high value saving on cycling magazine subscriptions.

Round Up: Touring Bikes

26.04.2012
By Cyclescheme

Touring bikes are designed to carry you and your luggage comfortably and efficiently as far as you want to go. That could be a five- or ten-mile trip to work just as easily as coast-to-coast cycling holiday.

Protect your bike with Bike Shepherd

25.04.2012
By Cyclescheme

Did you know that in the UK a bicycle is stolen every minute, and less than 5% of those are returned to their owners? What are you doing to stop your bike becoming another statistic? If your bike were stolen, would you know where to turn?

Round Up: Waterproof panniers

24.04.2012
By Cyclescheme

Rain is a fact of life for UK cycle commuters. As well as wet weather gear to keep you dry, you’ll want rain protection for whatever you’re carrying - laptop, work shirt, or just your lunch. Pannier contents can be kept dry in three ways. You can use one or more plastic bags inside a non-waterproof pannier; you can use a dedicated rain cover, which will provide protection from showers; or, best of all, you can use a pannier that is itself waterproof.

Win 1 of 3 Proviz helmet & rucksack packs!

23.04.2012
By Cyclescheme

Proviz provides the ultimate range of hi-visibility sporting accessories to keep you safe and visible on the road all year round. Not only do Proviz products include all the usual reflective material but they also include their own unique light-emitting systems to ensure you are visible to the traffic at all times, especially when it is dark.

Cyclescheme's 100 Mile Commute 2012

20.04.2012
By Cyclescheme

Last year a team of Cyclescheme and Grass Roots Group (Cyclescheme’s parent company) staff took on a cycle challenge like no other. We cycled from Cyclescheme HQ in Bath, through to Grass Roots Group head office in Tring, Hertfordshire. At just over 100 miles, it was no mean feat! You check out our report from last year to see how we got on.

Bike-Rail Commuting

19.04.2012
By Cyclescheme

Trains and bicycles are an ideal transport mix, combining high-speed inter-urban travel with unbeatable short distance efficiency. National Rail recognises this and its website states: ‘National Rail encourages the integrated use of cycles and trains - two convenient and environmentally friendly forms of transport.’

The Cyclescheme Seven: what's your commute really like?

18.04.2012
By Cyclescheme

Ever wondered how your commuting experience differs to others? Each month we share the story of a real Cyclescheme cycle commuter and ask them seven questions to sum up their experience from their two-wheeled commute. This month, it's Judith from Edinburgh

Nightrider™ – Sign Up NOW for 100km Moonlit London Charity Ride

28.03.2012
By Cyclescheme

Don’t miss one of the most exciting London cycle events this summer – Nightrider™ a thrilling 100km moonlit ride! While the capital sleeps 3000 Nightriders will raise £1 million in one night!

Cyclescheme and British Cycling join forces

27.03.2012
By Cyclescheme

With the weather improving, the clocks changing and an exciting summer of cycling just around the corner, there’s never been a better time to get on your bike. And now Cyclescheme and British Cycling have joined forces to make it even easier to take to the saddle.

Round Up: Grips and bar ends

26.03.2012
By Cyclescheme

Riding a bike can cause your hands to ache, tingle or even go numb. Don’t panic. It’s caused by the compression of nerves in your hands, specifically the ulnar and median nerves. That can be due to your own bodyweight bearing down on your hands or bumps and vibration being transmitted from the tarmac. It soon eases, and there are things you can do to stop it happening in the first place.

Specialized 90-day guarantee

25.03.2012
By Cyclescheme

Specialized are so confident in their tyres’ performance that they are now providing an unconditional 90 day satisfaction guarantee* on every tyre they make. If, for any reason, you are not 100% satisfied with any Specialized tyre, you can return it to a Specialized Dealer for credit towards a new Specialized tyre!

Roundabouts

21.03.2012
By Cyclescheme

Roundabouts can be quite intimidating on a bike. It doesn’t help that some drivers use them badly, barging into the traffic flow and failing to use their indicators correctly. Nor does it help that the advice on roundabouts for cyclists in the Highway Code is flat out dangerous. Rule 62 says ‘you may feel safer… keeping to the left on the roundabout’. You might, and some cycle lanes even guide you into that position. But you are not safer.

Bikecation

20.03.2012
By Cyclescheme

Ernest Hemingway wrote, ‘It is by riding a bicycle that you learn the contours of a country best, since you have to sweat up the hills and coast down them.’ Now there's a stress-free way of enjoying a holiday by bike - just let Bikecation do the work!

Round Up: Flat-bar road bikes

19.03.2012
By Cyclescheme

You’ll hear this kind of hybrid called different names depending on the manufacturer. Some call them fitness bikes, others sports bikes, urban bikes, or simply hybrids. We’ve used ‘flat-bar road’ because that describes it best. It’s not a jack-of-all-trades bike like the do-it-all hybrid; it’s designed to be ridden on tarmac, for commuting, fun, or fitness.

The Cyclescheme Seven: what's your commute really like?

19.03.2012
By Cyclescheme

Ever wondered how your commuting experience differs to others? Each month we share the story of a real Cyclescheme cycle commuter and ask them seven questions to sum up their experience from their two-wheeled commute. This month, it's Shane from Preston.

Win a Pinnacle Lithium Four Bike and kit worth over £600!

15.03.2012
By Cyclescheme

With big wheels and an attitude, the Lithium is a fast and light weight city ride with a heavyweight character. To be in with a chance of winning one, along with a great selection of kit - check out this months' competition!

Save money and have a fit and fun Mother's Day this March 18th

27.02.2012
By Cyclescheme

Tired of the same old Mothers Day offerings? Calorific chocolates and soon to wilt flowers? Research shows that 75% of the UK population lives within 2-miles of a National Cycle Route, so why not organise a family bike ride and take in some of the beautiful roads right on your doorstep?

Win 1 of 5 NiteRider ‘Mako Combo’ light packs!

23.02.2012
By Cyclescheme

This months' competition gives you the chance to get your hands on 1 of 5 NiteRider ‘Mako’ Combo’ packs worth £45 (including both a Mako and CherryBomb).

The Best of Specialized Event!

23.02.2012
By Cyclescheme

Specialized Concept Stores are inviting cycle enthusiasts to a series of special events happening in store around the country. Enjoy complimentary refreshments whilst you mingle with like-minded enthusiasts and get up close and personal with our complete S-Works road and mountain range, as well as bikes ridden by the pro’s.

How to fix a puncture

20.02.2012
By Cyclescheme

Before you start, this guide assumes that you already know how to change an innertube. Read our guide on it first if you don't. It also assumes that you've found – and if necessary removed from the tyre – whatever it was that caused the puncture. Never fix a puncture before thoroughly checking the tyre.

Round Up: Saddles

19.02.2012
By Cyclescheme

'There may be a better land where bicycle saddles are made out of rainbow, stuffed with cloud; in this world the simplest thing is to get used to something hard.' That was Jerome K Jerome, writing in Three Men on the Bummel, his 1900 novel about cycling.

Round Up: Singlespeeds

15.02.2012
By Cyclescheme

The singlespeed bicycle is the most popular in the world, mostly because it's cheaper to have one gear. Yet in the last decade, the singlespeed has enjoyed a renaissance in the cities of Western countries. Cyclists who can readily afford machines with multiple gears are riding minimalist street bikes instead. Why?

The Cyclescheme Seven: what's your commute really like?

10.02.2012
By Cyclescheme

Ever wondered how your commuting experience differs to others? Each month we share the story of a real Cyclescheme cycle commuter and ask them seven questions to sum up their experience from their two-wheeled commute. This month, it's Gary from Manchester.

Power-assisted bikes: the way forward

31.01.2012
By Cyclescheme

We asked Jenny from Hampshire to help us out and give us the lowdown on her experience with her new Trek FX+ power-assisted bike - a bicycle she describes as, “the Porsche of bikes!” We followed her story from visiting her local Partner Store, through to her first ride to work.

Claud Butler: 2012 Range

29.01.2012
By Cyclescheme

The Claud Butler 2012 product launches were a tremendous success - click here to check out the new range of bikes available! "Great looks, great value and great spec have resulted in our greatest range to date!"

Round Up: Cycling shoes

25.01.2012
By Cyclescheme

On the right bike and right commute, normal street shoes are ideal. They enable you to switch instantly from cycling to walking or vice versa. If you want to ride further or faster, however, dedicated cycling shoes have plenty to recommend them.

Changing an innertube

18.01.2012
By Cyclescheme

You get far fewer punctures if you keep your bike’s tyres firm. Invest in a floor pump (also known as a ‘track’ pump) with a pressure gauge and use it weekly. Even so, sooner or later you will get a flat tyre. If you practise changing a tube at home, you’ll be ready for it.

Round Up: Commuter-ready road bikes

17.01.2012
By Cyclescheme

If you want to get to work in a hurry, you can’t beat a road bike. Speed and efficiency on tarmac is what these sporty machines are all about. But unless you want to arrive with a stripe of dirty water up your back, you’ll want a bike that’s not just quick but practical.

The Cyclescheme Seven: what's your commute really like?

04.01.2012
By Cyclescheme

Ever wondered how your commuting experience differs to others? Each month we share the story of a real Cyclescheme cycle commuter and ask them seven questions to sum up their experience from their two-wheeled commute. This month, it's Steve from Newcastle.

Round Up: Wet weather gear

24.10.2011
By Cyclescheme

Even in the wettest areas of the UK, it rains on only one day in two. The odds of that rain falling heavily while you’re commuting are low. You’ll usually just encounter wet roads and showers. Because of this, the most important equipment for keeping dry isn’t clothing but mudguards. Full-length mudguards stop the water that’s lying on the road spraying all over you.

Round Up: Cyclo-cross Bikes

20.10.2011
By Cyclescheme

Autumn is the start of the season for cyclo-cross, the oldest form of off-road cycle racing. Competitors pedal around fields and parks, often shouldering their bikes to run up steep banks or hop over obstacles. You’re probably thinking: that doesn’t sound much like my ride to work. Yet there’s a reason that sales of ’cross bikes are soaring and it can be summed up in one word: versatility.

Specialized: New 2012 range

30.09.2011
By Cyclescheme

Specialized have now launched their new range of 2012 bikes! So whether you’re looking for a hybrid/commuter, road, or mountain bike, there will be something to suit all your cycling needs. Plus, all the bikes covered here are all available through Cyclescheme.

Round Up: Commuter Lights

26.09.2011
By Cyclescheme

When the clocks go back, daylight scarcely exists outside of the working day. If you’re cycling anywhere, you’ll want lights – because if it isn’t dark when you set off, it will be when you come home.

Cooper Bikes unveil new Ladies urban bicycle

22.09.2011
By Cyclescheme

Cooper Bikes, the bicycle division of the legendary Cooper Car Company, are hitting the bicycle market with a stylish new range of bikes perfect for commuters. The new Oporto ladies bike is a shining example of how practical can be fashionable too.

Evans Cycles joins the Cyclescheme Partner Store Network

21.09.2011
By Cyclescheme

The UK’s largest specialist cycle retailer, Evans Cycles, have joined Cyclescheme - the fastest growing Partner Store Network in the Cycle To Work Sector - by becoming part of the 1,800+ Independent Bicycle Dealers (IBDs) who form our Partner Store Network in an effort to get more people cycling to work.

Round Up: Town Bikes

19.09.2011
By Cyclescheme

Not sure which type of bike is right for you? Each month we'll take a look at the plethora of bikes available, and give you the lowdown on what will work best for you. This month we're looking at the classic 'Town Bike' - the perfect bike for a hassle-free, low maintenance commute.

The Nottingham Life Cycle - over £200k raised so far!

15.09.2011
By Cyclescheme

The University of Nottingham's Vice-Chancellor, Professor David Greenaway, led a team of colleagues as they cycled more than 1,000 gruelling miles from John O'Groats to Land's End over 14 days to raise money for the Sue Ryder Care Centre based at the University.

Cycle Show 2011 announce brand new Mountain Bike Demo Track

14.09.2011
By Cyclescheme

Organisers of the Cycle Show have just announced an exciting new Outdoor Mountain Bike Demo Track for visitors to the 2011 event, sponsored by Dare 2b.

The Bobbin Globe Store

30.08.2011
By Cyclescheme

Globe bikes are simple, practical, modern, unbranded and understated. The Bobbin Globe Store offers something new for cycle commuters in the capital...

APS Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge

28.08.2011
By Cyclescheme

The 505-mile challenge, which will take place from 17th-24th September, will raise much-needed donations for the charity Sparks, which funds high quality medical research that is intended to have a practical and positive effect on the lives of children.

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