Inside the Industry: iceBike* & COREbike Highlights
Inside the Industry: iceBike* & COREbike Highlights Over the past few weeks, I’ve had the chance to visit both the iceBike* show at the Lee Valley Velopark and the CoreBike show - two of the most exciting dates in the UK cycling industry calendar. As part of the team at bikeparts.co.uk, it’s always valuable to get hands-on time with new products, speak directly with brands and see first-hand where the industry is heading. This year didn’t disappoint. Innovation from the Big Players SRAM SRAM continues to push drivetrain innovation forward. From wireless groupsets to ever-more refined MTB and gravel offerings, their focus on performance and integration is clear. The ongoing development of AXS technology shows no signs of slowing, and it’s exciting to see how seamlessly their systems now integrate across disciplines. Pirelli | Michelin | Vittoria Tyre technology is evolving rapidly, developments in compound technology, puncture resistance and discipline specific tread patterns. Gravel and all-road categories continue to expand, with tyres that blur the lines between speed and durability. Shimano Seting the benchmark for reliability and refinement across road, gravel and MTB groupsets, from the latest Di2 electronic shifting systems to the ever-popular mechanical drivetrains, their focus on smooth performance and durability remains clear. With constant evolution in braking technology, drivetrain efficiency and integration, Shimano’s commitment to precision engineering keeps them at the forefront of modern cycling innovation. Exciting Brands & Emerging Tech DMR Bikes DMR continues to represent the best of British MTB heritage. Their pedal and cockpit ranges remain favourites, balancing durability with rider-focused design. Magene Magene stood out for its increasingly sophisticated power meters and smart training tech. With performance data becoming central to riders at all levels, brands like Magene are helping make accurate training metrics more accessible. Trends Across the Shows A few key themes stood out: Wireless integration everywhere - from drivetrains to dropper posts. Gravel refinement - lighter, faster but still adventure-ready. Data-driven riding - power meters and smart sensors becoming more and more mainstream. Premium suspension trickling down - high-end performance influencing mid-range products. Why Shows Like iceBike* & COREbike are important Industry shows aren’t just about shiny new kit. They’re about conversations - understanding supply chains, future launches, rider feedback and how brands are adapting to an evolving market. For us at bikeparts.co.uk, it’s invaluable. It helps ensure we stock the right products, back the right innovations and continue to serve riders with gear that genuinely performs.
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Gravel Bikes: The Best of Road and MTB, Rolled Into One 🚴♂️
Gravel bikes have gone from niche curiosity to one of the fastest-growing cycling categories and once you ride one, it’s easy to see why. They’re fun, versatile, and open up routes you’d never even consider on a road bike. If you’ve ever looked at a bridleway, towpath or forest track and thought "I wonder where that goes…" Gravel riding is for you. What Is a Gravel Bike? Think of a gravel bike as the perfect crossover between a road bike and a mountain bike. You get: Drop handlebars and efficient geometry inspired by road bikes Wider tyres, relaxed handling and stability borrowed from MTB Clearance for rough terrain without sacrificing speed on tarmac The result? A bike that’s fast on the road, confident off it, and happy everywhere in between. Why Gravel Riding Is So Popular Gravel cycling isn’t just a trend, it’s changed how people ride. 🚦 Freedom From Traffic Gravel routes often take you away from busy roads and into quiet lanes, trails and countryside. Less traffic, less stress, more smiles. 🌍 Endless Route Options Mix road, dirt, gravel, towpaths and trails into a single ride. No more turning back because the tarmac ends. 😄 Seriously Good Fun Gravel riding feels playful. You can push hard, explore new routes, or just roll along and enjoy the ride with no pressure, no rules. 🧰 One Bike, Many Uses Gravel bikes are incredibly adaptable: Weekend adventures Winter training Commuting Bikepacking and touring Fitness rides without road-bike fragility Road vs MTB vs Gravel. Why Gravel Wins for Many Riders Road bikes are fast, but limited when surfaces get rough Mountain bikes handle anything, but can feel slow on longer rides Gravel bikes sit perfectly in the middle, efficient and capable For many riders, a gravel bike becomes the most-used bike in the garage. Tyres, Gearing & Comfort Matter One of the biggest reasons gravel bikes are so enjoyable is how customisable they are: Wider tyres for comfort and grip Tubeless setups to reduce punctures Lower gearing for steep climbs Flared bars for control on rough descents A few smart component choices can completely transform how a bike feels and that’s where the right parts really matter. Is Gravel Riding for Everyone? Honestly? Almost! Whether you’re: A road rider wanting more adventure An MTB rider looking for longer rides A commuter wanting comfort and versatility Or someone who just loves exploring Gravel riding offers something different - and very refreshing! Final Thoughts Gravel bikes have exploded in popularity because they make cycling more fun, more accessible and more adventurous. They blur the lines between disciplines and encourage riders to explore without worrying about surface, speed or labels. Once you try gravel, it’s very hard to go back. And if you’re looking to upgrade tyres, drivetrain parts, brakes or accessories for your next adventure, you are in the right place 😉 👉 Browse gravel bike parts & accessories HERE
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New Year, Fresh Start: Getting Back in the Saddle After Christmas
The festive season is brilliant - good food, late nights, time with family and maybe one too many treats! But as the decorations are now down and the calendar clicks over, January brings something powerful to all: a fresh start. If your bike has been resting in the garage over Christmas, now is the perfect time to dust it off, pump up the tyres, and rediscover why you fell in love with riding in the first place A Clean Slate for Your Fitness Goals One of the best things about cycling is that it welcomes you back exactly where you are. Whether you’re easing into short spins or jumping straight back into structured training, every ride counts. You don’t need big goals straight away. Start simple: A 20–30 minute ride to get the legs moving. A weekend café loop with some friends. A commute instead of the car trip. One ride more than the last week. Consistency beats intensity every time, especially after a break. Shake Off the Winter Sluggishness Post-Christmas lethargy is real! But cycling is one of the fastest ways to shake it off. Fresh air, movement, and a sense of momentum can completely change how you feel - both physically and mentally. Even in colder weather, a ride can: Boost energy levels Improve mood and motivation Help rebuild fitness gently Reset your routine for the year ahead And let’s be honest - there’s something incredibly satisfying about being out on the bike while the rest of the world is still in “winter hibernation” mode. A Great Time for a Bike Check A new year is also the perfect excuse to give your bike a little TLC. A smooth running bike makes every ride more enjoyable and helps prevent niggles later on. A quick check can go a long way: Tyre condition and pressure Clean and lubricated drivetrain Brake performance Gears shifting smoothly Small tweaks now can make a huge difference to how confident and comfortable you feel back in the saddle. Start the Year Moving Forward You don’t need to be chasing podiums or personal bests. You just need to start. One ride leads to another, and before you know it, cycling is back where it belongs, part of your routine, your fitness and your lifestyle. So here’s to a new year, fresh motivation, and plenty of miles ahead.Whether it’s your first ride back or the beginning of a bigger goal, now is the perfect time to roll into the year on two wheels. Happy riding from all of us at BikeParts.co.uk - Don't forget to join our Strava Club and to tag us in your rides/posts!
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