Happy New Year, riders!
As we roll into 2026, the hum of freewheels and the crunch of winter tyres remind us why cycling is more than a sport, it’s a way of life. The festive season may have offered indulgence and downtime, but now it’s time to reset, refocus, and rediscover the joy of riding. Whether your ambitions involve conquering alpine passes, chasing local KOMs, or simply commuting with a smile, this is the moment to lay the foundations for a stronger, more adventurous year.
This issue is packed with inspiration. From the grandeur of the Giro’s Bulgarian Grande Partenza to the drama of a Tour de France opener in Barcelona, 2026 promises a season that blends audacious route-making with deep heritage. We explore the tactical chess matches that will define the year, from team time trials to summit finishes, and why this calendar feels iconic. It’s a year that asks riders to be technicians, climbers, sprinters, and strategists, often in the same week.
Closer to home, we celebrate the essence of cycling culture: the group ride. It’s more than a Sunday ritual; it’s the heartbeat of our sport. In an era of Zwift and solo training, the group ride remains irreplaceable, a classroom for skills, a sanctuary for camaraderie, and a reminder that cycling is best shared. Lose it, and we risk losing the soul of the sport.
Adventure seekers will love our features on riding the Fraser Delta, Uganda’s red tracks, and the epic Cairo-to-Cape Town odyssey. These stories aren’t just about distance; they’re about discovery, of landscapes, cultures, and sometimes ourselves. They echo a truth every cyclist knows: the bike is a passport to freedom.
For those chasing performance, don’t miss our deep dive into bike fitting science. A recent study shows that a proper fit isn’t just about comfort, it can unlock watts you didn’t know you had. More power, less pain? That’s a win worth investing in.
And because cycling is as much about style as substance, we showcase Santini’s refreshed Lidl–Trek kit and Bianchi’s bold return to the WorldTour with Bahrain Victorious. Heritage meets innovation, and the results are stunning.
As we step into this new year, let’s embrace the full spectrum of cycling, speed and serenity, tradition and tech, solo escapes and shared miles. Whatever your goals, remember: winter miles make summer smiles. So layer up, light up, and ride on.
From all of us at BIKE Magazine, thank you for being part of this incredible community. Here’s to a year of unforgettable rides, bold challenges, and stories worth telling. Happy New Year, and see you on the road.
