Ride On digest

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The week’s top bike news from around the world, brought to you every Friday. Local Victoria rallies against broken promises Bicycle Network Victoria have announced a second bike budget rally for midday this Sunday (29 July) to remind the Victorian Premier of the commitment he himself made twelve months ago to build the bridge that will
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Letter to the editor: Roads bias

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Roads bias In your Feb-Mar issue a reader raised the query as to why many cyclists choose to use the road when there appears to be a very good dual-use path adjacent to it.  I too had the same question until I started riding to work. It quickly became apparent to me that to get
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Will I feel good?

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You know you will. When your heart ramps up, the endorphins start pumping and your ride provides a natural high. The heart workout does you good as well, of course. Regular bike riding cuts the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Researchers at Baker IDI have shown that it improves heart capacity, lung function and
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Second-hand bikes: where to find them?

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If you are after a serious bargain, second-hand bikes are a great option. Many bike shops sell restored second-hand bikes. This is a great option as you can be sure that they are safe and functioning well. There are also specialist second-hand bike dealers which have a range of bikes in various stages of disarray
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Lite-weight wonders

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When weight is a priority, these bike lights truly shine. Simon Vincett reports findings from the 2011 Lights test.  Improvement in LED technology has enabled manufacturers to make some good lights that come in very small packages. The two lights below shone in this year’s Ride On Lights test for impressive visibility for their super-light
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High-powered lights

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See and be seen with high-powered bike lights. Simon Vincett reviews notable 2011 models In the past these lights have required a separate battery pack strapped to bike. This variety still exist and perform well but now there are “cable-free” high-powered lights as well, such as the latest NiteRider, Cygo-Lite, Exposure Lights and NiteFlux Commuter
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Stop, thief!

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The boom in riding has created rich pickings for bike thieves. Emma Clark investigates It’s a horrible feeling, seeing that empty space where you know you left your bike. Sickening disbelief followed by outrage is the normal reaction. But what are the chances of getting your beloved machine back? According to the police, the trade
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Dynamo lights

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Say goodbye to batteries with a dynamo bike light. Simon Vincett lays down the options When you pedal, your light comes on – brilliant. It’s good to make life more simple and that’s what a dynamo light set-up can do for you. To equip yourself, buy a bike with a dynamo or have a new
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Track racing demystified

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Great to watch but bewildering for those not in the know,  our guide will help you get a grip on what track racing is all about. Track racing is the perfect spectator event. Like a football game without the hooligans or mud, you can see the whole track from one seat, eat fried food and
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What makes a good bike light?

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After six years of annual tests of bike lights, we’re confident we know what makes a good bike light. Simon Vincett reports Highly visible output, both head-on and angled, so that people can see you Excellent water resistance Durability for regular use and the occasional tumble Ease of operation and not too many modes to
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