6 Things We Love About Cycling Right Now! | Gcn Show Ep. 533

Welcome to the GCN show, where we take you on a thrilling ride through the gravel roads of Southern Utah. Get ready for a show that's not just pink, but bursting with excitement. This week, we've got six things that we absolutely love about the world of cycling right now. We'll also be sharing some nuggets from the racing world, drooling over some envy-inducing technology, and yes, you heard it right, Bernard with a giant rubber duck. So, let's dive right in!

The Thrill of the Race

In the world of cycling, we've learned that if you're good enough, you don't even need to look where you're going. That's right, folks. Just take a look at Marlon, as he effortlessly navigates a treacherous turn in last week's race. He was so far ahead that he had enough time to correct his mistake and still emerge victorious. And let us tell you, watching the race on GCM is even better than experiencing it in real life. Well, we wish that were true, but unfortunately, it's not.

Celebrating the Best in Cycling

A few weeks ago, we may have grumbled about certain aspects of cycling that rub us the wrong way. But truth be told, we've seen it all and witnessed some incredibly thrilling bike races. So, instead of dwelling on the negatives, let's focus on what's truly amazing in the world of cycling right now. Here are our top picks:

1. Cycling for All

Whether you're a die-hard fan of racing or simply enjoy a leisurely ride, we're in the midst of an incredible era where both men and women are dominating the Tour de France. Cyclists like Ana van de Luton, who won the Giro and the Tour de France last year, along with other world champions, are currently vying for victory in the Tour des Flandres. It's a sight to behold!

2. The Evolution of Road Bikes

We absolutely love road bikes. They've evolved to a point where they're not only faster and more efficient than ever, but also incredibly versatile. Take, for example, the Canyon Ultimate. It's a true road bike used in grand tours, but it also clinched the World Gravel Championship. It's a gravel bike that's relevant to most cyclists. Talk about versatility!

3. Embracing Exploration

Exploration is now a legitimate reason to hop on a bike. While racing has never been better and watching the races is more exciting than ever, more and more people are taking up cycling for completely different reasons. It's not just about commuting; it's about escaping and exploring. And we can't say no to gravel bikes.

4. The Handlebar Backpacks

Oh, how we adore handlebar backpacks. They show us that cycling goes beyond just speed. It's also about taking a moment to smell the flowers. But there's a hitch with handlebar backpacks—they encourage people to carry loads of unnecessary stuff. Cycling is about escaping and leaving everything else behind. And let's be honest, who knows what's lurking in those handlebar backpacks. Even after a biannual cleaning, we're pretty sure they're still filled with junk.

So, there you have it—the best of the best in the world of cycling right now. From thrilling races to versatile bikes and the joy of exploration, there's so much to celebrate.

The Latest in Cycling News

Now that we've covered the highlights, let's dive into the latest news from the cycling world.

Saran has launched the new Eagle Access Format device with an innovative hookless shifting system. This system not only makes shifting smoother but also enhances the ease of installation and maintenance. The cassette has also undergone a transformation, with narrow and wide teeth that ensure reliable and smooth shifting even under extreme load.

However, to utilize this new system, you'll need a specific frame, such as the Envy MOG, which is designed for this type of shifting. This kind of shifting has been used in mountain bikes for about 10 years.

In other news, the Quickstep clothing brand, once a powerhouse in the cycling world, is making a comeback and building a new 140,000 square meter carbon factory in South Carolina. On the flip side, American clothing brand KitSpell, known for producing high-quality apparel, has been forced to shut down.

In the UK, the distributor Large, a constant presence in the cycling industry, has closed its doors and decided to auction off its inventory. That means 35,000 bikes will be up for grabs.

Lastly, the GCM Plus app is gaining popularity among cycling enthusiasts, offering live coverage of mountain bike races, including the Enduro World Cup and the new National Cycling League races.

The Global Bike Festival and Beyond

Mark your calendars because the Global Bike Festival is just around the corner, taking place from June 15th to 18th in Austria. Join us for a celebration of all things cycling, with special appearances by Mark Beaumont and Yen. It's going to be an event to remember!

As we wrap up, we want to remind you that cycling is not just a sport or a means of transportation—it's a way of life. It's about pushing boundaries, exploring new horizons, and experiencing the thrill of the ride. So, get on your bike, embrace the adventure, and let the wheels carry you to new heights.

Until next time, keep pedaling and keep the cycling buzz alive!

*[GCM]: Global Cycling Network