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    • Nov 11, 2024 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekly NEW EPISODES
    • 37m AVG DURATION
    • 269 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Cycle Systems Academy

    EPISODE 214: Drop Bar MTBs with John Galloway

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 11, 2024 41:54


    In this episode, we dive into the world of versatile cycling setups, the evolution of gravel and mountain bikes, and the story behind a painful foot injury during an overseas visit. Join us as Sean and John Galloway revisit the influence of the Velocast, discuss the rise of drop-bar mountain bikes, and explore what's shaping the future of gravel racing, bike packing, and versatile bike builds.Full show notes HERE.Want to immerse yourself in community and a year long learning programme in bike maintenance? Check out our Team Camp membership program.

    EPISODE 213: Sustainable Tire Manufacturing and Innovation with Continental Tires

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 4, 2024 38:13


    In this episode, we dive into Continental's sustainable tire manufacturing efforts and their approach to eco-friendly bike tires. From sourcing renewable materials like dandelion latex to maintaining rigorous tire quality control standards, we explore how Continental leads the industry in sustainable rubber sourcing and innovation. Whether you're a cycling enthusiast, a sustainability advocate, or interested in bike tire standards, this episode sheds light on the future of eco-conscious cycling products.Get the full show notes HERE.Want to immerse yourself in community and a year long learning programme in bike maintenance? Check out our Team Camp membership program.

    EPISODE 212: Mavic e-deemax wheels with Mike Stead

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 29, 2024 32:48


    In this episode, Sean discusses the latest Mavic E-Deemax wheelset, a newly designed wheelset specifically for e-bikes. The E-Deemax is Mavic's modern take on the classic D-Max, famously known for its bright yellow rims on downhill bikes back in the 26-inch days. Now, optimized for e-bike durability and versatility, these wheels are designed to handle the extra torque and weight of electric bikes. Sean shares insights from his long-term review, where he has tested the wheelset's durability, build quality, and ease of maintenance.Link to full show notes HERE.Want to immerse yourself in community and a year long learning programme in bike maintenance? Check out our Team Camp membership program.

    EPISODE 211: Cyclocross in 2024 - Is the Golden Age Over?

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 21, 2024 28:59


    In this episode, Sean dives into the world of cyclocross bikes and how the rise of gravel biking has impacted the cyclocross scene. Once a thrilling side of cycle racing, especially in the UK and US, cyclocross has now been overshadowed by gravel riding, but its unique tech continues to evolve.Sean explores the history of cyclocross bikes, the tech behind them, and their influence on modern gravel bikes. From high bottom brackets to tight wheelbases and mud-clearance cantilever brakes, he breaks down the essential features that defined cyclocross bikes. He also reflects on how cyclocross bikes like his beloved Specialized TriCross have been adapted for touring and adventure riding, making them versatile and practical for more than just racing.For full show notes click HERE.Want to immerse yourself in community and a year long learning programme in bike maintenance? Check out our Team Camp membership program.

    EPISODE 210: an Epic Icelandic Adventure with Tynan Couture-Rashid

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 14, 2024 57:07


    In this episode of the Cycle Systems Online Podcast, we sit down with Tynan Couture Rashid, an avid cyclist and bikepacking enthusiast, fresh from an unforgettable adventure in Iceland. We dive deep into Tynan's journey, the technical challenges of bikepacking, and the unique blend of excitement and preparation that comes with riding in one of the most beautiful and rugged landscapes in the world.Read the full show notes HERE

    EPISODE 209: Continental 111 Tires with JP Ballard from Swiss Side

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 5, 2024 47:23


    In this episode, we dive deep into the journey behind the development of game-changing aerodynamic tires with JP, a cycling expert and former Formula 1 aerodynamicist. JP shares how Swiss Side collaborated with Continental to create a tire that improves rolling resistance, grip, and puncture protection, while also enhancing aerodynamics. He explains the challenges they faced during development, the role of “turbulators,” and why this tire is a breakthrough in the cycling world. If you're a road cyclist, triathlete, or just a bike enthusiast, this episode is packed with valuable insights about tire performance and why aerodynamics matter at any speed.For full show notes click HERE

    Episode 208: New Developments in Bikepacking Bags with Mike Stead

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 17, 2024 35:29


    In this episode, Sean and Mike dive deep into the world of bikepacking gear and innovations, with Mike sharing insights gained from years of reviewing cycling equipment and personal bikepacking adventures. From tackling Scotland's harsh weather to exploring New Zealand's rugged terrain, we discuss how bikepacking setups have evolved, making it easier for both seasoned cyclists and beginners to enjoy the outdoors.Shownotes can be found HERE.

    Episode 207: The Ins and Outs of Dynamo Lighting

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 10, 2024 25:48


     In this episode, we dive back into the workshop and focus on Dynamo hubs! Sean discusses the basics of Dynamo lighting systems, shares repair tips, and offers troubleshooting advice for mechanics who might not be as familiar with electrical systems. He reflects on the evolution of bike lighting, from old bottle dynamos to modern hub systems, and highlights his experiences dealing with Dynamo setups in bike shops. Tune in to learn how to diagnose and fix Dynamo lights, and discover which products are best suited for different types of cycling.Shownotes HERE.

    Epiode 206: Shimano Cues One Year Review with Mike Stead

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 3, 2024 41:40


    In this episode of the Cycle Systems Online Podcast, host Sean Lally is joined by cycling expert and Road.CC reviewer Mike Stead to discuss the Shimano Cues groupset, one year after its release. They dive into the performance, durability, and cost-effectiveness of Shimano Cues, especially in the context of e-bikes and bike maintenance.Shownotes HERE

    Episode 205: Our Summer of Love

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 26, 2024 57:14


    In this episode, Sean and Julia discuss their recent bikepacking adventure in the Swiss Alps, focusing on the experience of using an e-bike for such a trip. They also delve into Julia's personal journey with cycling, from her early struggles with asthma and a lack of confidence in sports to discovering the joy and possibilities opened up by e-bikes. This episode explores the unique challenges and triumphs of e-bike bikepacking and offers listeners an engaging story of overcoming physical and psychological barriers.

    Episode 204: David vs Goliath - Small Biz in 2024 with David Darby from Red Chili Bikes

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 19, 2024 53:39


    In this podcast episode, the discussion centers on the evolution and impact of cycling technology, featuring David Darby of Red Chilli Bikes. They explore how the high costs of advanced materials and technologies, such as electronic group sets and internal cable routing, have made premium bikes less accessible. The conversation highlights the challenges of maintaining modern bikes and the industry's shift towards integrated designs, driven by both technological advances and pandemic-induced price hikes. You can grab the full show notes HERE.

    Episode 203: Are Gravel Bikes Just 1990s MTBs?

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 12, 2024 15:04


    Sean has fun in this episode, and dives into the ongoing debate: Are gravel bikes just modern versions of 1990s mountain bikes? Drawing from personal experiences and historical context, the discussion explores the evolution of mountain biking from its early days in the 1970s and 80s, through to the booming popularity of gravel bikes today. Expect tongue in cheek. And stay away if easily offended.Show notes HERE.

    Episode 202: What The Swiss Taught Me About Bike Cleaning

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 29, 2024 16:06


    Welcome to Episode 202 of the Cycle Systems Online Podcast! In this episode, we dive deep into the essential yet often overlooked aspect of cycling: cleaning your bike. Not only does a clean bike look great, but proper cleaning and maintenance are crucial for prolonging the life of your bike and its components. Join Sean as he busts some common myths and shares best practices for keeping your bike in top condition, learned from a Swiss bike shop—one of the best in the business. 

    Episode 201: Are Bike Products Fit for Purpose? A Mechanic's Rant

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 22, 2024 25:45


    In this week's episode of the Cycle Systems Online Podcast, Sean dives into a pressing issue in the bike industry: are the products being released truly fit for purpose and safe for use? Join us as we explore historical and current safety concerns, industry accountability, and the economic motivations behind product releases. From carbon clincher wheels to Shimano crank recalls, we discuss real-world incidents and the ongoing debate over product safety. Tune in for an eye-opening discussion and share your thoughts on the matter! 

    Episode 200: Bike Mechanics - Experience vs Training

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 15, 2024 28:31


    In this episode of Cycle Systems Online, host Sean Lally dives into the debate of experience versus training in bike mechanics. Drawing from his experience running a training center since 2009, Sean discusses the importance of continuous learning, common industry misconceptions, and the value of accredited qualifications. He shares real-world anecdotes to highlight the need for both practical experience and formal training, and advocates for Continuous Professional Development (CPD) to keep skills up-to-date. Tune in to understand the essential balance between experience and ongoing education in mastering bike mechanics. 

    Episode 199: Corners Mechanics Cut (But Shouldn't)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 8, 2024 20:07


    Welcome to Episode 199 of Cycle Systems Online Academy! In this episode, our instructor discusses common practices among bike mechanics that need improvement, the importance of formal qualifications, and the varying standards across different countries. Working in commercial workshops in Switzerland during 2023 and 2024, Sean has noticed some common corners mechanics cut. Tune in to see if you are guilty and gain valuable insights to enhance your understanding of the bike servicing world. 

    Episode 198: Graduate Story - from Menus to Mechanics

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 1, 2024 39:06


    In this week's episode of the Cycle Systems Online Podcast, Sean chats with Dino Pavledis, a Cycle Systems Academy graduate. Dino shares his inspiring journey from head chef to bike mechanic, sparked by a passion for cycling at Riverford Organics. He highlights the structured learning at the academy, overcoming challenges, and completing a 136k ride on a bike he rebuilt. Dino now excels in bike maintenance and enjoys both mountain and road biking. Sean and Dino discuss modern bike complexities like ebikes and internal cable routing. Tune in for Dino's story and his future aspirations in cycling! 

    graduate mechanics dino menus cycle systems academy
    Episode 197: What is Going on with the UK Bike Industry?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 22, 2024 16:13


    In this episode, we delve into the dynamic landscape of the UK bike industry. We cover:The Rise of Electric Bikes: Discover how e-bikes are transforming the market, driven by environmental consciousness and convenience.Industry Challenges: Learn about the supply chain disruptions and rising material costs that manufacturers are grappling with.Expert Insights: We speak with industry experts who share their perspectives on navigating these challenges and what lies ahead for the bike market in the UK.Future Trends: A look into what the future holds for the UK bike industry and how companies are preparing for the evolving market.

    Episode 196: Labour Conditions in the Bike Trade - Worst and Best Cases

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 14, 2024 16:24


     In this episode of the Cycle Systems Online Podcast, host Sean delves into the often-overlooked ethical concerns in the bike manufacturing industry. With a spotlight on the recent investigation into Shimano's Malaysian factory, he explores issues such as labor exploitation, environmental degradation, and the lack of fair trade standards in bike production. Sean discusses historical parallels to indentured labor and highlights potential solutions by drawing comparisons to the apparel industry's efforts towards ethical manufacturing. 

    Episode 195: The UK bike industry with Raleigh's Managing Director, Lee Kidger

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 10, 2024 40:35


    In this episode of the Cycle Systems Online Podcast, we are joined by Lee Kidger, a prominent figure in the cycling industry who recently transitioned from his role as Managing Director at Raleigh UK to embark on new and exciting ventures. Lee shares his career journey, starting from his early days in a health food store to leading roles in the bike industry, and discusses his latest projects, including his work with The Electric Bike Shop and various consulting and charitable endeavors. 

    Warranty work and it's implications for bike shops

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 26, 2024 19:17


    Warranty work, unless you sell exclusively Pashleys and Bromptons you'll have lots of this. It seems most mainstream manufacturers see warranty cases as a cost of business. However, are they taking their fair share of the hit or does the humble bike shop shoulder the burden instead?

    The hidden costs of internal routing -

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 19, 2024 17:31


    Internal routing does look cool, but does is equate progress and modernity? Well, if like me, you have been working on these bikes you may have been starting to think maybe not

    Shimano Cranks. When is a recall not a recall?

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 12, 2024 21:44


    The long overdue Shimano 11spd crank recall seems to be throwing up as many questions as it is answering. Is this a genuine recall, or an attempt to push as much of the responsibility elsewhere as possible?

    Anthony Foy - The Cycle Tech Start Up

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 5, 2024 51:16


    Cycle Systems Academy Level 3 graduate, Anthony Foy has got years of experience as a product designer, and a hands on mechanic in the bike industry. Here about his new start up at the performance end of things here.

    EPISODE 190: Winter MTB Tires Special

    Play Episode Play 56 sec Highlight Listen Later Dec 25, 2023 11:05


    MTB riders cannot replicate their kicks on Zwift. They are hard men and women that don't mind a bit of mud. Join Sean, self-confessed hardcore mud lover himself, to find out about MTB Winter tires. For full show notes click HERE.

    EPISODE 189: Gravel Bike Fun in the Alps

    Play Episode Play 58 sec Highlight Listen Later Dec 18, 2023 19:08


    Taking his entry level gravel bike into the high Alps, Sean was somewhat intimidated after the rolling hills of Dartmoor. Hear how he got on riding the mountain bike and goat tracks of the Bernese Oberland. Click for full show notes HERE.

    Episode 188: eBike Battery Safety

    Play Episode Play 52 sec Highlight Listen Later Dec 11, 2023 37:15


    eBike batteries have hit the headlines in 2023 for many of the wrong reasons. Sean has been lucky enough to talk to some real experts in eBike battery safety and shares some of their findings here. Find your show notes HERE.

    Episode 186: MTB Design + a Bike for All Trails

    Play Episode Play 49 sec Highlight Listen Later Nov 27, 2023 15:59


    MTB design for you. which is the best MTB to choose for riding, shredding or even racing? Find your show notes HERE.

    Episode 185: Enjoying All Weathers

    Play Episode Play 41 sec Highlight Listen Later Nov 20, 2023 16:16


    Riding in Winter does not have to be on Zwift. In fact, you may be missing out if you just jump on the home trainer all the time. Join bad weather enthusiast (really) Sean Lally for a guide to learning to love the Winter storms. Find the show notes HERE.

    Episode 184: Getting the Bike Ready for Winter

    Play Episode Play 49 sec Highlight Listen Later Nov 13, 2023 11:59


    In the Northern hemisphere were are entering Winter. How will your poor bike survive? Let Sean guide you through how to Winterise your bike or even build a specific Winter steed. Find your show notes HERE.

    Episode 180: Campgnolo and the Main Things to Remember

    Play Episode Play 49 sec Highlight Listen Later Oct 16, 2023 18:16


    Campagnolo equipment, love it or hate it? It turns out many of the haters simply don't have the knowledge or skills to work with the various groupsets available. check this podcast if you want ti up your Campag game. Find your show notes HERE.

    Episode 179: Bike Buying Advice from Sean

    Play Episode Play 60 sec Highlight Listen Later Oct 9, 2023 28:54


    Bikes are better than ever, it has to be said. Road, off road, utility, we really can ride an unrivalled machine of our choice these days. There are certainly a few things to look out for though and of course, Sean is not shy in giving us his take. Find show notes HERE.

    Episode 178: Strava KoM Hunting

    Play Episode Play 45 sec Highlight Listen Later Oct 2, 2023 13:07


    Strava can be a way to get lost in data, metrics and meaningless competition. It can also be great fun and a good way to set yourself goals, even when riding to work and back. Sean takes us through the fun he has with the bright orange app. Find the show notes HERE.

    Episode 177: eBike Troubleshooting

    Play Episode Play 30 sec Highlight Listen Later Sep 25, 2023 24:51


    Our latest show looks at how to troubleshoot your eBike problems beyond just looking at the error code. While more complex than their acoustic cousins, there is nothing you should fear when dealing with eBike issues. Find show notes HERE.

    EPISODE 175: Riding Big Events

    Play Episode Play 43 sec Highlight Listen Later Sep 11, 2023 19:21


    Ok, fellow MAMILS, got your bib shorts on inside out and your helmet on backwards? Have you inexpertly shaved your legs with a rusty razor? If so, let's look at the best way to prep for your next big event. Find the show notes HERE.

    Episode 174: Tubeless Tires Essential Knowledge

    Play Episode Play 60 sec Highlight Listen Later Sep 4, 2023 24:34


    Tubeless or not? For mtb'ers this is a no brainer, for roadies, not so much. Sean takes you through the tubeless landscape of 2023. For full show notes click HERE.

    Episode 173: Disc Brake Fault Finding

    Play Episode Play 32 sec Highlight Listen Later Aug 28, 2023 24:34


    For show notes and more, please click HERE....

    Episode 172: Working More Safely in the Bike Workshop

    Play Episode Play 57 sec Highlight Listen Later Aug 21, 2023 17:37


    For show notes and more, please click HERE...

    Episode 171: Workshop Efficiency

    Play Episode Play 57 sec Highlight Listen Later Aug 14, 2023 19:08


    For show notes and more, please click HERE....

    Episode 170: Types of eBikes (Part II)

    Play Episode Play 54 sec Highlight Listen Later Aug 7, 2023 25:26


    For show notes and more, please click HERE...

    Episode 169: Marginal Gains for Mamils

    Play Episode Play 23 sec Highlight Listen Later Jul 31, 2023 27:56


    For show notes and more, please click HERE.....

    Episode 168: Working as a Bike Mechanic

    Play Episode Play 55 sec Highlight Listen Later Jul 24, 2023 19:40


    For show notes and more, please click HERE...

    Episode 167: Breathing & Diet - a Look at Lifestyle & Boosting Fitness From Within

    Play Episode Play 39 sec Highlight Listen Later Jul 17, 2023 41:02


    For show notes and more, please click HERE....

    Episode 166: Types of eBike (Part I)

    Play Episode Play 42 sec Highlight Listen Later Jul 10, 2023 23:38


    For show notes and more, please click HERE...

    Shimano Cues with Mike Stead

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 20, 2023 46:24


    While the evil overlords of the bike industry force us to use disc brakes on our road bikes, D shaped steerers that seem to break quite often and internal routing that would confound a Jack Russell terrier, Shimano have gone totally off message and (gasp) released an entire family of components that work together effortlessly. It is almost as if, in their Bond Villain lairs they are listening to us mechanics rant about non compatible shifters and press fit bottom brackets! Keep it up, folks. The ever insightful Mike Stead from Road.cc joins us for an in depth look. 

    Episode 163 eBikes and the Modern Workshop

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 28, 2023 50:30


    John Galloway was a pro mechanic in the 1990s and finished up pretty much when Sean started out. In this week's episode they look at how a 1990s mechanic would fare in a modern workshop and vice versa! This, of course gives us the excuse to talk about eBikes, disc brakes and electronic Rohloff hubs as well as cantilever brakes, broken anodised purple components and wheelbuilding. Amazingly, gravel bikes, the Girvan flex stem and John's drop barred mountain bikes don't get a look in. 

    Episode 165 The first rule of Farmer John's MTB Park is...

    Play Episode Play 45 sec Highlight Listen Later Feb 13, 2023 63:21


    Welcome to Cycle Systems Online podcasts for 2023. It's great to be back with a stellar episode with John Thorpe from https://fjmtb.com/ From 1980s tracker bikes through to legendary MTB night races and a cult following in the Manchester area, John has built up a reputation for great riding, racing and partying at his own bike park.Marple is no Marin County, but John can certainly match Gary Fisher for a good yarn and the race weekends have rivalled anything at Repack back in those heady days. You can find out more at https://www.facebook.com/FARMERJOHNSMTB and  https://www.instagram.com/fjmtb/

    Winter Bikes 2022

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 19, 2022 40:46


    Join Sean and John for a revisit to the topic of Winter Bikes. Quite a few changes have occurred in the bike world since we discussed this topic last. Do you get an old touring bike and plod through the Winter, or just ride your main squeeze all year 'round? What about mountain bikes, gravel bikes or even the dreaded indoor trainer? Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all of you out there. See you in 2023. 

    Cyclocross tech with the Crosscast's Neil Mansfield

    Play Episode Play 30 sec Highlight Listen Later Dec 12, 2022 53:11


    The world of cyclocross racing and tech is beloved to some and unknown to many.Whichever of these camps you fall into, this weeks show with Neil Mansfield from the Crosscast will satisfy you like a beer soaked skinsuit at a dirty weekend in Belgium.Links for your delight; https://thecrosscast.buzzsprout.com/https://grity.co.uk/ 

    MTB tech with Jarno Hoogland

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 6, 2022 70:25


    Join Sean and International Mountain Bike Mag's Jarno Hoogland for a look a the world of mountainbikes for 2023. Whether you want inspiration for a new event or want to know what new tech may be coming out, we try to cover it all here. Jarno talks about riding at  Nava Freeride and the Trans Madeira  as well as inviting you to Verbier to use his Trail Taxi.Links for all we discussed here. https://www.imbikemag.com/  https://navafreeride.it/  https://trans-madeira.com/ http://trailtaxi.ch/ https://www.planetx.co.uk/c/q/bikes/mountain-bikes/on-one-hello-dave/ 

    Episode 159 - Shimano Linkglide with Mike Stead

    Play Episode Play 30 sec Highlight Listen Later Oct 25, 2022 50:46


    While we all like to save money on bike components, having more longevity is especially important in 2022 due to continuing component shortages. As chains and sprockets have got narrower, and especially now electric motors are common, the time is ripe for a new type of drivetrain. Does Shimano's new Linkdrive fit the bill? Join Mike Stead and Sean to get the lowdown and to find out about a few other new products, including a carbon tubeless sealant. Yes, really.  

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